Blog

5 OF MY FAVOURITE WEDDING VENUES IN TOOWOOMBA / SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND People often ask me about my favourite wedding spots in and around the Toowoomba and South East Queensland area. I know that sourcing a venue is one of the biggest (and most stressful!) decisions a bride-to-be will make, so hopefully I can help make this process a little less overwhelming. Here are 5 stunning venues well worth a closer look. Naturally I have picked places which are not only breathtakingly beautiful, but also translate effortlessly to photographs. If you’d like more advice on photo opportunities at these gorgeous places (or anywhere else), I’d love to chat and help you plan the perfect photo journey to capture all the unforgettable moments. Gabbinbar Homestead If secluded and spectacular is your vibe, then look no further than the regal elegance of Historic Gabbinar Homestead. This place is a bride’s – and a photographer’s, best friend. Established in 1863 and set amongst 150-year-old gardens, ancient trees and expansive lawns, there is so much to love about this showstopper and trust me, it always delivers a truly unforgettable big day. Located high on the mountain range in Toowoomba, it is completely private and has wow factor for days. Weddings here are granted exclusive use of the estate, including its extensive gardens, stables, Old School House and so much more. Every inch of this majestic stunner is photo worthy and it lends itself to a myriad of themes. Sophisticated and timeless, romantic and relaxed, elegant and glamourous, classic old world, boho luxe, or fairytale and whimsical – they’re all at home here. And if you have a fluffy friend or two you’d like to be there to witness ‘mum and dad’ get hitched, they’re more than welcome. There are options for sit down receptions and garden parties including canapes, tapas or live cooking – which I adore as it’s so immersive watching the award-winning chefs do their thing. Oh and something to mention to your guests – they’ll be so absorbed in the magic of the Gabbinar experience that if they’re not already engaged, they will be by the time last drinks are called! Adora Downs Another one of Toowoomba’s wedding venue treasures, Adora Downs is the one for you if you’re channelling a warm, rustic wedding with an intimate feel. A cattle and grain property in a unique rural setting, this charismatic gem will host your reception, wedding and accommodate up to 125 guests in its quaint country cabins. This saves a busy bride with an endless to-do list so much hassle and is a huge selling point of the property. Trust me – one location that takes care of everything is a godsend! Think rustic sheds, authentic farm machinery, gorgeous tree swings (perfect to steal a kiss from your new hubby!) and the crowd favourite, a stunning fairy light canopy. The ambience underneath is beautiful and it will leave everyone feeling all warm and fuzzy. There is a gorgeous olive grove which provides the dream photo backdrop, and I haven’t met a bride yet who didn’t go weak at the knees for it! The staff, just like the surrounds, are like a big warm hug making you and your guests feel part of the family. All in all, Adora Downs is all charm and unpretentious natural beauty – a winning combination. Gip’s Restaurant Another historical fave, Gip’s is set in one of Toowoomba’s prized treasures, Clifford House and fun fact - it used to be the grand old home’s billiard room! This country beauty is full of charm and offers three different locations all within the grounds. Firstly there’s the marquee with a silk-lined roof draped in hundreds of fairy lights. Surrounded by the heritage garden of Gip’s Restaurant and Clifford House, it’s pure magic. There is also the option to stage your special day in the immaculate gardens. Picture long tables under a ceiling of lights, styled to suit which ever theme you choose. Hugged by heritage trees, the photo opportunities are endless. If you prefer a cocktail party or long lunch style wedding, the gorgeous garden setting suits these styles of celebration to a tee. For those who want to dine and dance the night away (translation: everyone!), a casual wedding in the Gip’s garden restaurant area or the majestic Clifford House adjoining the restaurant, are also great options. With the grand ballroom, arched windows and French doors creating a stately ambience, it is well worth checking out. Hillstone at St Lucia Golf Links Hillstone has hosted countless weddings - and you can see why. There are four reception spaces, two ceremony spaces and two welcoming areas, so lots of choices for you and hubby-to-be to explore! Let’s talk ceremonies first, and The Fountain is pure rustic European elegance. Sitting at the top of a hill, it has 180-degree views of the parklands and golf course, lush foliage and a gazebo wrapped in jasmine and bromeliads. I mean, does it get any better? You can also say your nuptials in the Courtyard Garden, which has a wooden gazebo and is encased by towering green hedges. This is a great choice for intimate ceremonies and like The Fountain, looks fabulous on film. The largest reception area is the The Grand View Room, which boasts sky-high ceilings, detailed architraves and skirting, beautiful old-world feels. You can make use of the heritage listed Mango Tree Terrace for your ceremony, canapés, cutting the wedding cake under the stars, or to even watch your very own fireworks. There’s also The Rosewood which is a photographer’s fave as it faces west offering twilight all afternoon. This means your photos – professional and candid – will be flawless. With its wooden floors, white vertical veejay walls and a juxtaposition of modern and vintage inspired wall art, it is both beautiful and homely. This is just the tip of the iceberg though so I definitely encourage you to round up your fiancé and take a closer peek. Preston Peak Winery Another one of Toowoomba’s finest, you know any wedding at a winery is going to be a winner….and rich in photo opportunities! This place has such a great vibe with stunning views of the Lockyer Valley below. I recommend starting the day in the Bridal Cottage, a quaint little spot to get ready, shake off the nerves with your bridesmaids and of course, capture some unforgettable memories. There are plenty of locations to choose from (330 acres full of them in fact) but you can’t go past the Wedding Tree Pavilion which is as gorgeous as it sounds. It’s built of glass so the views are unbeatable, filled with so much beautiful natural light. Another venue with an olive grove, there is also a dazzling tree-lined driveway adored in fairly lights, a firepit and of course, grapevines a-plenty! Photos here are breathtaking and there is a really relaxed feel throughout the property, which helps bring out the best in people when they are in front of the lens. I also love capturing the bride and groom enjoying their very first dance as a Mr and Mrs under the huge chandelier in the cellar door. The hospitality here is super welcoming, the views are unparalleled, and the food is sourced locally and cooked up by talented chefs. All in all, it has vibrance and romance in spades and definitely deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Why Time and Place Matter