Today I was lucky enough to officiate a wedding at the beautiful Rossdale Golf Club in Aspendale.

The green lush surroundings provided a gorgeous backdrop despite Melbourne deciding to rain excessively for most of the day.

As a Melbourne wedding celebrant you need to be prepared for all conditions, but it was definitely a good idea that the ceremony be moved to the clubhouse indoors on this occasion.Weather dependant there is also a lovely gazebo on the grounds to have your ceremony, and a huge grassed area to accommodate a great number of guests.

The newly renovated clubhouse with golf course views also has a modern outdoor area that can be utilised.

From a cocktail and canapé type reception, to a fully catered sit down meal you can tailor your package to suit.

For more information on weddings and function packages at Rossdale Golf Club follows the link belowhttps://www.rossdalegolf.com.au/cms/functions/X

Looking for Melbourne-based wedding venues? Don't worry, Anna Leighton Wedding Celebrant Melbourne is here to help!

Located in the central area of St Kilda Road, Melbourne - The Willows could be just the place you are looking for.

Offering both stunning architecture and a unique style for your special day, there are numerous indoor and outdoor options to cater for weddings of any size.

Each area has distinctive features - whether it be the Courtyard and Conservatory amongst the stunning gardens, or the Estella or Lindsay Rooms which have private bars, dance floors and bridal rooms for preparations or touch ups throughout the day!

The wedding specialists at The Willows will help guide you through all stages of your wedding preparation, accommodating all of your guest and decor needs.

The menu selections are a huge drawcard and the options have been carefully constructed by trained and experienced staff.

From cocktail party style to cultural menus, The Willows has it covered. They recently have introduced Indian inspired and Asian banquets as well as having options for floating entrees, various courses and buffet style receptions.

For more information or to submit an online enquiry head to https://www.thewillows.com.au/ or contact the staff on (03) 9867 5252.

Are you needing a Melbourne based wedding celebrant? Don't hesitate call Anna Leighton, Wedding Celebrant Melbourne on 0419 110 592 today!

Need A Wedding Celebrant? Anna Leighton Wedding Celebrant Brighton is here to help.

Situated on the picturesque Brighton Beachfront, this venue offers fine cuisine, excellent service and a view that is unbeatable.

The staff Baths Middle Brighton are able to tailor a wedding to all of your individual needs and guest capacity requirements.

They have options of cocktail style receptions in the Baths Cafe & Bar, inclusive of access to a bar and outside decking over the waterfront, as well as capacity for a seated reception of 120 guests.

With a wide range of seated exclusive, cocktail exclusive and beverage packages available you are sure to find something to suit your needs and budget.

This venue ticks all the boxes, and there isn't any better place to have uninterrupted views of Melbourne's city skyline, paired with a sun-kissed beach as a backdrop!

For more information be sure to head to the Middle Brighton Baths website http://www.middlebrightonbaths.com.au/weddings/

where you can email your enquiry as well as view their packages and pricing options - or phone on 03) 9539 7000

Are you considering a wedding in the Brighton area - call Anna Leighton, Wedding Celebrant Brighton on 0419 110 592.

For more info on Brighton weddings - Click Here

If you are looking for a unique and breathtaking wedding ceremony and reception venue, Sky High Mount Dandenong may be just the place you are looking for.

There are incredible views throughout, with the most popular often being the private terrace adjacent to the function room, this spot offers panoramic views of Melbourne in its entirety as well Port Phillip Bay.

There is the Secret Garden, with a heritage style gazebo as the perfect romantic backdrop, and the State Forest provides some of the best photo opportunities you could wish for - this venue is also very well known for its stunning sunset photography.

Sky High Mount Dandenong is often recognised by the Australian Bridal Industry Academy, and has won various awards - including being the winner for wedding coordinator, in house wedding advisor, and a finalist for the restaurant wedding reception award over several years.

After the wedding ceremony itself you can enjoy your reception in the function room, which can cater for approximately 200 guests for a sit-down meal, and up to 320 guests if you are after a chic cocktail reception.

Sky High are happy to tailor a package regardless of budget and can even help organise music, florists, or videography if required. Accommodation and transport arrangements for your guests can also be made.

To discuss this venue for your upcoming wedding you can contact their Function and Events Manager on (03) 9751 0443 or visit the website for package pricing online at http://www.skyhighmtdandenong.com.au/wedding-and-function-special.aspx

Located in Halifax Street in the bayside suburb of Brighton, Billilla Gardens provides a picturesque and romantic backdrop for wedding ceremonies.

It is listed on the National Trust Register and has a rose garden display, manicured gardens, a large fountain, and most importantly an 1880's Art Nouveau mansion that will make an amazing focal piece for your special day.

Couples are often seeking this location for their wedding day due to its historical nature, charm and lush gardens. It is also close to the city, and a large variety of popular reception centres.

The extensive gardens surrounding the mansion are stunning for photographs, and the design draws inspiration from classic Victorian style, with winding paths and superb trees.

Billilla Mansion and Gardens are best suited for intimate and medium sized wedding ceremonies up to approximately 80 people.

You can enquire about booking Billilla for your wedding day by phoning Bayside city council on 9599 4444, or by using the council website application form via the link below https://www.bayside.vic.gov.au/facilities-venues/billilla-gardens

As a wedding celebrant in Melbourne I love to look at ceremony venues that are outside the ordinary. One such venue is the Old Cheese Factory located in Berwick, 41 km South East of Melbourne, and the best part is both ceremonies and receptions can be held there.

The grounds and gardens are expansive and beautifully maintained, and there are historic buildings which provide interesting backdrops and excellent photo opportunities.

Various packages are available and cater for a large variety of wedding options - from intimate gatherings of 20 people right up to large-scale celebrations of 400 guests!

When booking this facility for your wedding, you are given the venue for the entire day and won't need to share it with anyone else which is a great feature.

There are both indoor and outdoor options available dependant on the time of year, and if you are wanting to hold both your ceremony and reception at this venue there are multiple food and beverage packages to suit any budget.

This is definitely an interesting wedding venue and one that you may not have even been aware of. To arrange a tour or to discuss permit options you can contact the Old Cheese Factory on 9702 1919 or email them at ocf@casey.vic.gov.au

Do you need a wedding celebrant in Cranbourne? Are you looking for a suitable venue in the South Eastern suburbs?

One venue that I highly recommend is the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne. These gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for your special day, and there are many different areas available for hire.

The most popular wedding location on site is the 'Riverwalk', which incorporates a curving, treed walkway as well as a running water feature.

There are various manicured green lawns, a water landscape and even an ampitheatre that can seat at least 150 people, believe me when I say this Australian garden has it all!

Due to its size and varied landscape it can also cater for both intimate ceremonies, as well as large marquee events.

For more information head to https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/visit-cranbourne/plan-your-visit/cafes-functions-weddings

Do you need a friendly and approachable wedding celebrant? I pride myself on delivering affordable, tailored wedding ceremonies that are memorable for all the right reasons.

Contact Anna Leighton | Wedding Celebrant Melbourne to begin planning your dream wedding today!

All weddings come with their own budget, and of course it is preferable to try and keep your costs down as much as possible. The truth of the matter is however, you often get what you pay for!

Here are some things to look out for with 'cheap wedding celebrants'.

*Do they allow for ceremony adjustments or changes? Often cheap celebrants will have a certain script with minimal room for changes, meaning your ceremony will not be specifically designed or tailored for your own personality or style.

*Cheap celebrants may also have hidden costs. For example, they may only allow for an initial meeting in their fee structure, and may have added costs for wedding rehearsals or revisals.

*How many weddings do they book on one day? Cheap celebrants may look at quantity over quality. Make sure they allow ample time to concentrate on each wedding individually, so that it can be the best ceremony possible.

*You may have to incur huge travel costs dependent on where your ceremony location is. Be sure to check for additional charges depending on kilometres travelled from the celebrants location.

*You may not get the service or attention that you should when it comes to planning your ceremony. The celebrant may not be able to dedicate adequate time to planning your ceremony, particularly as they may have overbooked.

When choosing a wedding celebrant, be sure to ask plenty of questions and ensure that you feel comfortable with them. You should feel confident in their ability and be able to openly communicate with them in the lead up to your special day!

There are many ways to personalise your wedding ceremony, and including a ritual or symbolic gesture is a popular way to do so.

Here are 5 options that you may wish to discuss with your wedding celebrant!

Unity candle:

The couple each has a lighted taper candle which signifies two individuals standing apart. They each use their individual candle to light a central candle which signifies unity. The two taper candles are extinguished and the larger candle left alight.

Sand Ceremony:

This ceremony expresses the coming together of two people, or two families into the one family. Each person has a different coloured sand and take turns in pouring it into one clear vessel, producing a layered effect. Children or other family members can also be incorporated.

Dove release:

Doves choose one partner for life and make this commitment until death. The white dove has been used throughout history as a symbol of love, peace, purity, faithfulness and prosperity. Doves released at the ceremony represent the love and commitment the couple have given to one another this day.

Goblet of wine:

The bride and groom both drink from a single glass of wine. This symbolises drinking from the cup of life and sharing all of its experiences together, both bitter and sweet.

Hand-Fastening

An old pagan ritual where couples bind their hands together with a ribbon to symbolise the joining of two lives.

This weekend saw the Australian Bridal Service host the 'Ultimate Bridal Event' at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne. This glamorous event has been running since 1992, and featured over 200 exclusive displays, as well as fashion parades - there were even prizes for a honeymoon to be won, or a romantic escape at Crown Towers.

Bridal Expos are a great starting point for those starting to plan their wedding as there are exhibitors from all aspects of your day that need to be covered, all under the one roof! These expos run across all states, but I will be highlighting the ones upcoming in Melbourne throughout 2017 as a snapshot so you can get planning!

Melbourne Bridal and Honeymoon Expo:

To be held on Sunday Jan 22nd at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre 9am - 4pm. Online pre-sale tickets are available here

Berwick Wedding Expo:

To be held on Sunday 19th March at the Old Cheese Factory 11am - 3pm. For more information click here

Mornington Bridal Expo:

To be held on Sunday 19th March at the Mornington Racecourse 10am - 3pm. To buy tickets click here

One Fine Day - Melbourne Wedding Fair:

To be held on Saturday May 6th and Sunday May 7th at the Melbourne Showgrounds. Tickets become available for purchase from February on the website here

Annual Frankston Wedding Expo:

To be held on Sunday 16th July at the Frankston Arts Centre 11am-2pm. For more information click here

Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges Wedding Expo:

To be held on Sunday 22nd August at Karralyka, Mines Rd Ringwood 10am - 2pm. Tickets at the door.

Wedding Expos Australia - Melbourne Annual Wedding Expo:

To be held on Sunday October 22nd at the Melbourne Showgrounds 10am - 3pm. Sign up for free entry here

These are just some of the amazing bridal events taking place this year, but all are a great place to get valuable information!

Becoming engaged is one of the most exciting times of your life, but planning your big day can often become overwhelming and stressful.

There are so many facets involved in wedding planning but here are the basics that you can start with.

Timing - What time of year would you prefer? Weather, climate and availability can impact on your decision.

Venue - Is there are certain reception centre, park or garden that appeals to you? The theme of your wedding, formality and number of guests will affect your venue choice.

Celebrant/Ceremony - What type or style are you going for? You may be looking at a formal or traditional style, or maybe a more relaxed modern type. You will also need to factor in your wedding budget, and meet with celebrants to see if you develop a rapport or trust in them.

Involvement - Who would you like to play a role in your special day? You may wish to have groomsmen or bridesmaids, or involve children in your ceremony. In addition, you can look at incorporating readings or rituals involving others who have a special place in your lives. Your celebrant should help you with developing these facets of your day.

The outfit - Most girls have given this a lot of thought already, right? You probably have a good idea of the style of dress you are after or what might be flattering for your body type. Try and take into account the length of time you will be in your dress and shoes on the day, and think about bringing some flats to put on towards the end of the night!

The team - There are lots of different people that need to be incorporated into your wedding day. Here is little list to get you started: Photographer/videographer, florist, DJ/band, cake maker, hair and makeup artist, and car hire.

There might be a lot to think about and plan, but the important thing is to remember why you are getting married in the first place, and have a bit of fun with it!

The ceremony is the introduction to your special day and a part that you will remember long after your wedding is over. Here are some tips for helping choose a celebrant that suits you as a couple.

1. Make sure you have a rapport - it is pointless choosing a celebrant that you are unable to communicate with, or one that doesn't understand your wedding needs or requests .

Your celebrant should be able to clearly explain the legal requirements of a ceremony but provide options for you to incorporate your own wishes and individual personalities.

2. Your celebrant should provide you with a rough guide of how your ceremony will run, and should be available in the lead up to your wedding day to tweak or adjust the ceremony as necessary. You should be able to call or email your celebrant and receive a response in a timely fashion.

3. Try and get in early, as certain months and seasons of the year are more popular than others. Most celebrants will not want to overbook their calendar, so that they can give each individual ceremony the time and respect it needs. If you have particular dates in mind, make sure you make this clear at your initial meeting.

4. Choose a celebrant whose style and personality compliments you. If you are after a more informal ceremony you may want to employ a celebrant with a relaxed demeanor and casual approach. If you are after a more formal wedding it may be best to have a celebrant who is experienced in these types of weddings and provides a more traditional approach.

5. Try and have a bit of fun! Wedding planning can be a stressful time, but having someone who is familiar with the process and is well aware of the workings of a wedding is huge plus. You might be surprised to find that you are able to have a bit of a laugh with your celebrant in the lead up to your special day, and they can be someone to turn to for advice and guidance.

There are so many beautiful settings located in Melbourne that provide a picturesque backdrop for a wedding ceremony. As a wedding celebrant in Melbourne I could be officiating a wedding on a pristine bayside beach one day, or a garden amongst the hills of the Dandenong Ranges the next.

Finding the perfect setting for yourself as a couple is certainly a very important factor. If you need some ideas or inspiration here are a few popular examples across Melbourne.

Brighton Beach

Centrally located and only 11km from the city, this beach provides a beautiful backdrop for a wedding, complete with a city skyline. Don't forget that there are the iconic bathing boxes located there for some gorgeous and colourful photos.

Poet's Lane

This venue is in the heart of the Dandenong Ranges and provides a lush garden setting for a fairytale wedding amongst the beautiful oak trees and stunning bridges. It is less than an hour from Melbourne and has both indoor and outdoor ceremony options to allow for year-round weddings.

Carlton Gardens

These gardens are some of the most beautiful that the city of Melbourne has to offer, and the Royal Exhibition Building and gardens are World Heritage listed. This popular wedding ceremony location in the heart of the city, offers romantic views and several lawn areas to choose from.

Wilson Botanic Park

Located in Berwick, this park has a rose garden, lakeside lawn, rotunda and even an ampitheatre for those larger ceremonies. This 39 hectare established parkland has so much to offer, and is an idyllic setting for your special day.

Werribee Park Mansion

This popular venue is only 30 km west of Melbourne and has several locations available throughout its 10 acre English gardens. It has an original 1870's mansion that provides a breathtaking setting for your ceremony and you reception can follow in one of the 3 onsite function spaces available.

Flowerdale Estate

For those looking for a stunning country wedding, this venue may be just the place. A little over an hours drive from Melbourne, and about 40 minutes from the Yarra Valley, there are endless photo opportunities amongst the 6 acres of beautiful gardens and lawn areas surrounding this Victorian homestead.

These are just a handful of amazing ceremony locations available to those getting married. The fact that there are so many varied settings available makes it extremely rewarding to be a wedding celebrant in Melbourne!

Are you looking at getting married? Call Anna Leighton | Wedding Celebrant Melbourne on 0419 110 592 today