Drop-in weddings are most recognisable in a Las Vegas chapel. But the trend to have a stress-free wedding is growing outside the famous strip.
Executives at a popular wedding venue near Ballarat thought they would provide an opportunity for couples to tie the knot at a drop-in wedding solution.
Narmbool’s Festival of Love in April will allow couples to get married at allocated times with less stress and expense at a grand location.
Narmbool functions and events sales manager Danielle Neil said there was a growing trend to have a simple wedding.
“Many couples today are wanting to get married with minimum fuss, yet want to be able to create a memorable day with their family and friends,” Ms Neil said.
“With the average wedding in Australia costing in excess of $50,000, the Festival of LOVE at Narmbool offers less fuss than a traditional grand celebration, at a fraction of the price.”
Sovereign Hill marketing director Jennifer Ganske said drop-in weddings had filled a demand for short, yet sophisticated, celebrations.“
Their most recognisable form is the Las Vegas wedding chapel style wedding, which appeals to many couples who want stress-free celebrations,” Ms Ganske said.
“Narmbool is such a beautiful, traditional wedding venue, and we’re excited to offer this unique twist on a traditional wedding.”
The event, to be held on the day Prince Harry marries Meghan Markle, will see more than a dozen couples tie the knot.
After marrying or renewing vows, couples and up to 50 guests, can enjoy a picnic-style reception with live entertainment, vintage caravan photo booth, and food and beverages.
The $1990 wedding package includes a ceremony by an authorised marriage celebrant, photography package, bouquets and/or buttonholes for the bridal couple, and an eight-inch wedding cake.
Food and beverage packages can be tailored to a couple’s needs and budge while the picnic boxes start at $25.
Ms Neil believed this style of wedding would appeal to many couples.
“We have seen a trend in recent years where people want to go for something more simple because they may have children or financial constraints,” she said.
“We are seeing in other countries drop-in weddings are a lot more exciting. They are becoming more popular. We are trying to give it a go.”
Couples who register by April 15 will go into the draw to win wedding bands valued at $1000, donated by Gems and Jewels.
The Festival of Love will be held at Narmbool, near Elaine, on Saturday, May 19.
Bookings can be made by phoning 5329 2616 or emailing narmboolfunctions@sovereignhill.com.au
