Planning a King Valley Winery Wedding: What You Need to Know When you imagine your wedding ceremony, chances are you're picturing sunshine, gentle hills, vineyards rolling away into the distance, and a celebrant who knows how to create a relaxed and engaging moment among the vines. That's why winery weddings have become a favourite across North east Victoria - from King Valley to Wahgunyah and Rutherglen. They're scenic, intimate and set the perfect tone for a day that feels both classy and fun. The Setting Does Half The Work Vineyards create a natural sense of romance and calm. Guests arrive already smiling, glass in hand and suddenly the ceremony becomes an experience, not something they sit through waiting for the bar to open. A ceremony That Matches The Venue A winery wedding calls for: a relaxed pace gentle humour heartfelt storytelling elegance without formality No cheesy jokes. No borrowed love quotes. Just a ceremony that sounds like you. Guest Experience Matters - They Will Enjoy The Delights Of Local Suppliers One of the best parts about a King Valley wedding is incorporating the rich local culture and traditions: • Italian-inspired Cuisine From handmade pasta to gourmet grazing tables, food plays a central role in winery weddings here in the North East Victoria. • Prosecco and Regional Wines King Valley is famous for its sparkling prosecco—incorporate it into your toast or create a prosecco bar for guests! • Farm-to-Table Dining Many venues collaborate with local growers to serve fresh, seasonal dishes. Accommodation Guest Experience Since King Valley is a destination wedding location, consider providing accommodation options for guests: • Boutique Vineyard Stays – Many wineries offer cozy cottages or luxury lodges for a full wine-country experience. • Local Hotels and B&Bs – Milawa, Wangaratta, and surrounding towns provide excellent hospitality. • Transport – Consider shuttle buses or pre-arranged transport to make it easy for guests to enjoy the celebration without worry. Final Tips for a Seamless Winery Wedding • Book Early – Winery venues are incredibly popular, so secure your date well in advance. • Weather Planning – Have a backup indoor option in case of unexpected weather changes. • Wine Pairing Experience – Work with the venue to curate a memorable food and wine pairing that complements your menu. • Capture the Scenery – Make the most of King Valley’s breathtaking backdrop by hiring a photographer who knows the region well. Your Love Story in Wine Country A King Valley winery wedding is more than just an event, it’s an experience woven with romance, incredible flavours, and unforgettable scenery. With the perfect venue, thoughtful details, and a touch of local magic, your celebration will be one that lingers in your hearts (and taste buds) forever. Final Sip If you're dreaming of a relaxed, engaging, classy ceremony among the vines, you don't have to settle for scripted or boring. Your love deserves to be celebrated with heart, humour and just a lttle sophistication.

Seasonal Guide: Getting Married in Victoria’s High Country Victoria’s High Country is an idyllic setting for weddings, offering breathtaking landscapes, charming venues, and a rich seasonal variety that can shape the mood of your special day. Whether you're dreaming of a sun-drenched summer celebration or a cozy winter wedding, here’s what you need to know about tying the knot in this spectacular region throughout the year. Even a trail ride to the top of Mt Stirling to be married amongst friends and family is an option that is only mimited by your imagination. Spring (September – November) Best for: Wildflower-filled landscapes, mild temperatures, and fresh, vibrant energy. Spring is a stunning time to get married in the High Country, as the rolling hills burst into colour with wildflowers and blossoming trees. Expect mild temperatures that allow for comfortable outdoor ceremonies. • Weather: Pleasant with cool mornings and warm afternoons. • Venues: Vineyards, gardens, and mountain lodges offer ideal settings. • Considerations: Spring showers can be unpredictable, have a Plan B backup. Summer (December – February) Best for: Warm, golden hues, evening celebrations, and adventurous activities. Summer weddings embrace the bright and lively energy of the High Country, perfect for those who love outdoor ceremonies with panoramic mountain views. This season is fantastic for golden-hour photography and balmy evening receptions. • Weather: Warm to hot, particularly in valleys. • Venues: Alpine resorts, countryside estates, and outdoor pavilions. • Considerations: Be mindful of bushfire season—check local safety updates and plan for shade and hydration options. Autumn (March – May) Best for: Rich Autumn foliage, cozy atmospheres, and crisp air. Autumn transforms the High Country into a spectacular canvas of deep reds, oranges, and golds. This season offers a romantic, intimate feel, perfect for rustic and vineyard weddings. • Weather: Cooler but comfortable, with crisp evenings. • Venues: Barns, boutique lodges, and heritage estates framed by autumn foliage. • Considerations: Days are shorter, so ceremonies may need to start earlier to capture the best natural light. Winter (June – August) Best for: Snowy landscapes, intimate gatherings, and elegant winter aesthetics. If you love the idea of a cozy, fairytale-like wedding, winter in Victoria’s High Country delivers. Snow-capped mountains, roaring fireplaces, and moody skies set an unforgettable backdrop. • Weather: Cold, with snowfall in higher elevations. • Venues: Alpine chalets, lodges with open fireplaces, and boutique inns. • Considerations: Travel may require extra planning due to snowfall—ensure guests have clear routes and warm attire. Final Tips for a High Country Wedding Venue Availability: Book well in advance, especially for Summer and Autumn. Local Produce: Take advantage of seasonal food and wine unique to the region. Each season in Victoria’s High Country holds its own charm, allowing couples to tailor their wedding to the atmosphere and aesthetic they love most. Whether it’s a sunlit vineyard, a rustic autumnal escape, or a winter wonderland, this region delivers unforgettable experiences year-round.

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A single floral decoration worn by the groom, traditionally in the colours of their intended.

COVID-19 has thrown many couples in to a spin and with all the months and sometimes years of planning, it has come down to making the choice to postpone or to go with the restrictions of just five people for what is most likely to be a legals-only style of ceremony. It is clear to see that the Corona Virus is not going away any time soon and I am mindful not to add to the potential risk, stress and harm that the virus may cause. It’s important that as an Australian marriage celebrant, I comply with the rules set down by our government and that they are adhered to, to the best of my ability. The Covid-19 restrictions that now apply to weddings, have been put in place to protect our nearest and dearest. If a couple still wish to get married, of course this is still possible, providing there are no more than five people present. This includes the marriage celebrant, the couple and their two legal witnesses over the age of 18. If the couple still wish to have a photographer and/or videographer then they must act as a witness. As laid out by the Australian Government, social distancing of at least 1.5 metres must be applied and the four square metre rule must be observed, this includes the signing of the legal documents. In the face of Corona Virus, one of the biggest challenges couples are faced with currently is to decide when to pull the trigger on their date and move it to a date further into 2020 or even move to 2021. Many of my couples have already made the decision to move weddings that are booked from now through to September and October until earlier in to 2021. Not an easy decision to make and there are many variables to consider; guests travel plans and accommodation to just begin with. If you are unsure of what to do, I would suggest that you engage with your suppliers and enquire about future dates and their availability. Yours won’t be the first call they have taken to discuss this very topic. I'm available to chat about your options either by email, zoom or over the phone. As many have said, we are living in such uncertain times and Covid-19 / Corona Virus is testing even the most resilient of us. Let's put the welfare of you, your families and your guests first.

What sparked this reaction just before the processional?