My Favourite Wedding Venues in Sydney, the Southern Highlands, Country NSW & the Hunter Valley
Couples often ask me where my favourite places to officiate weddings are - and honestly, it’s such a tough question because there are so many! But over the years as a Sydney marriage celebrant, a few venues have really stood out. They’re the kind of places that don’t just look beautiful in photos - they feel amazing for couples and their guests.
Food, service, atmosphere, and how smoothly everything flows on the day all matter so much. (And can you tell I’m a bit of a foodie? You’ll notice a theme coming through!)
Here are some of my absolute favourites:
🌆 Sydney Wedding Venues
🍷 Bennelong, Sydney Opera House
This space is truly magical. There’s a special energy that comes with being inside one of the world’s most iconic landmarks - it’s almost impossible to describe until you’re standing there yourself. The architecture, the view, and the sense of occasion are unmatched. Pair that with incredible food and wine, and Bennelong is unforgettable for couples and their guests.
The Grounds is famous for its beauty and attention to detail. Every corner is filled with lush greenery, whimsical décor, and that signature Grounds atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can see guests looking around in awe before the ceremony even begins. Add to that their reputation for excellent food and wine, and you know your wedding will feel like a true feast for the senses. They pride themselves on events, and every wedding I’ve been part of here has run seamlessly.
🥂 Boutique Restaurants in the City
Think Lana ,Franca Brasserie , Hubert . If you’re after something chic, intimate, and food-forward, boutique restaurants are perfect. They offer atmosphere in spades: moody lighting, beautiful décor, and a warm, cosy feel. The food and wine are next level - genuinely some of the best in Sydney. A wedding here feels stylish and personal, and your guests will be talking about the dining experience long after.
Cool, urban, and effortlessly stylish. The Ducks offer the perfect mix of relaxed atmosphere and polished service. The space is versatile and has a laid-back, modern feel, but the food is the star: innovative, delicious, and consistently excellent. It’s a venue that feels down-to-earth while still delivering a top-tier wedding experience.
🌊 Gunners’ Barracks, Sergeants’ Mess & Athol Hall
For couples who want that classic ‘function venue’ experience without compromising on beauty, these spaces are ideal. Each offers stunning harbour views and a unique character: the elegance of Sergeants’ Mess, the historic charm of Gunners’ Barracks, and the relaxed waterside vibe of Athol Hall. What ties them together is exceptional service - they run weddings like clockwork. Everything flows smoothly, which means less stress for you and more comfort for your guests.
🌿 Southern Highlands Wedding Venues
Bendooley Estate is a dream location. With its rolling vineyards, heritage buildings, and the iconic Book Barn, it feels like something out of a storybook. It’s grand without being pretentious and romantic without being fussy. The food and wine are exceptional, and the team genuinely care about guest experience - you always get the sense that everything has been thought of. Weddings here run like a well-oiled ship, and guests always leave glowing.
🍷 Hunter Valley Wedding Venues
Enzo’s is one of my all-time Hunter favourites. It’s warm, inviting, and stylish, with a real focus on hospitality. The owners genuinely love what they do, and it shows in every detail — from the service to the food. The atmosphere is both relaxed and elegant, making it a space where guests immediately feel welcome. Every wedding I’ve seen here has flowed beautifully.
Circa is pure romance. Stepping inside feels like stepping onto a film set — theatrical, whimsical, and full of character. The building itself is heritage-listed and bursting with charm, while the grounds are lush and magical. And then there’s the food: creative, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. For couples who want something dramatic, fairytale-like, and unforgettable, Circa is the perfect pick.
✨ Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, there are so many wonderful venues across these regions, and maybe one day I’ll write a dedicated blog post for each area. But from memory, these ones really stand out to me for all the right reasons.
Thanks for reading!
