Planning a wedding on the Gold Coast? Here’s what you need to know.
Whether you call the Gold Coast home, or are planning a destination wedding, our beautiful backyard really is the perfect setting for your big day.
Imagine saying ‘I do’ nestled against the rugged mountain backdrop of the Gold Coast hinterland, or while you dig your toes into the warm sands of our pristine beaches. You might even want to sail away to a secluded island just off the coast. The options really are endless and exciting…
Below are some of my top local insights to help you start planning your dream Gold Coast wedding.
Location, location, location
When it comes to picking your wedding location, the Gold Coast won’t leave you disappointed. One of the hardest things will probably be choosing that perfect spot.
Getting married on the beach is the most popular choice and I’d encourage you to check out my Gold Coast’s finest beach wedding locations blog to decide on a sandy strip that’s just right for you.
Equally as beautiful, and perhaps a little more quiet is the stunning Gold Coast hinterland - picture refreshing waterfalls, stunning mountain backdrops and quaint little villages. The hinterland will not only serve as a great spot to get married, but also as a fun playground for holiday activities and relaxation.
Just off the coast, and accessible via the Gold Coast Broadwater, you’ll find some beautiful, secluded islands. They include North Stradbroke, South Stradbroke and Moreton Island. Although offering a wedding setting with a real difference, it will be a little harder to coordinate your guests, travel, accommodation and suppliers – so, just keep that in mind.
Wet weather plans
As we say, the Gold Coast is beautiful one day and perfect the next! Our amazing weather definitely is a major draw card for couples to get married in the great outdoors.
If you’re trying to choose the right time of year for your Gold Coast nuptials, spring and autumn are definitely your best bet. They average temperatures of 25 degrees, making them the perfect season for an outdoor wedding. Winters can be quite cold, with the mercury dropping below ten degrees at night, while summers are often very hot, humid and wet.
If you do choose to get married during a Gold Coast summer, try to schedule your ceremony early in the day to avoid the afternoon storms. In the winter months the sun sets before six, which is why early afternoon ceremonies will provide the perfect light for your wedding snaps.
All year round, as with any other destination, it’s important to have a good wet weather plan and to think about how you will protect your guests from the harsh Australian sun.
Where to stay and play
A major tourist destination, there’s no shortage of accommodation options on the Gold Coast. They range from luxurious five star hotels and beautiful AirBnbs, to bed and breakfasts, caravan parks and camping spots. There’s something for everyone and every budget. Just keep in mind that many places have a strict no in-house party policy – and, you really don’t want to run the risk of thinking you won’t get caught!
Easily accessible via three airports, including Brisbane, Gold Coast and Ballina, the Gold Coast also has a sophisticated public transport system that makes exploring easy and fun. The entire area is connected via buses, while the Northern parts of the Gold Coast also feature a light rail and train network.
Beyond the usual necessities, the best thing about having your wedding on the Gold Coast is that it will also serve as a vacation. Not only will you feel relaxed and happy, but your guests will also experience the entire wedding as a holiday - a sentiment that will set the tone for your special day.
Whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush, pampering or simply love nature; the range of Gold Coast activities and facilities is extensive. They include water sports, cruises and hinterland tours, wineries, theme parks, surfing lessons, luxury spas, markets, nightlife, great restaurants for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding get-togethers and much, much more.
And, did I mention we have some of the world’s best beaches?
What to do next?
Now that you’ve decided to get married on the Gold Coast, let me help you create your perfect day! I love bringing people together and sharing personal love stories in a genuine, fun way. My aim is also to take some of the stress out of the preparations.
Get in touch and let’s start planning your wedding today!