The Best Wedding Destinations in Northern Rivers according to a Local Celebrant

​When it comes to wedding destinations, Northern Rivers has some of the best in New South Wales. As a celebrant, I've had the pleasure of being a part of weddings at many different venues in the area, and I thought it might be helpful to share some of my favorite indoor and outdoor venues located close to my location. There are plenty more I could recommend further afield as well. 

Mixed Indoor and Outdoor Venues

The Clydesdale Motel is a historic property that's been painstakingly restored, and The Barn is a beautiful private event space that's perfect for weddings. It's located in Casino, and because it has accommodation available, out of town wedding guests, especially, will have the benefit and convenience of being able to access anywhere in the area with ease. The informal, relaxed atmosphere is ideal for couples wanting a carefree ceremony with all the details worked out. 
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​​Deux Belettes: This gorgeous venue is located in the Byron Bay hinterland at Dalwood and offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for your ceremony and reception. The beautiful established gardens are perfect for an outdoor ceremony, and the stone barn makes for a stunning backdrop for your reception. Built like a French manor from rock collected entirely from the property, even if the weather is wet, there are amazingly picturesque spots available for your ceremony. 
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Summerland Farm: Located just outside Alstonville, Summerland Farm is a working farm that offers three unique event spaces for weddings. Their 100-year-old tobacco shed has been beautifully renovated and makes for a stunning reception space, while their lush gardens are perfect for an outdoor ceremony. But better still, there is a rotunda that is a brilliant raised structure for the wedding ceremony. Privately located in the grounds, it is complemented by established trees, plenty of dappled shade and wonderful visibility for the guests.

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Indoor Venues

If you're looking for an indoor-only venue, with the flexibility of available outdoor green (overflow) space, the following local venues are surely worth considering:

Tintenbar Hall: Tintenbar Hall is a beautifully-restored heritage listed building that dates back to 1885. It's located in the heart of the Byron Bay hinterland and can accommodate up to 120 guests. It is a surprisingly private venue. Besides the gorgeous interior, the verandah area is brilliant for wedding ceremonies, large and small. 

Pearces Creek Hall: Pearce Creek Hall is another historic building that's been lovingly restored. It's in a very private spot, situated to the front of a working cattle property just off Eltham Road, Alstonvale. Up to 200 guests can be accommodated and there is plenty of flexible space e.g. for a marquee. Behind and to the side of the hall, old specimen trees can provide ideal focal spots for ceremonies; or inside the hall can present as a charming old country church. 

There are plenty of B&Bs and local halls within the region worthy of consideration as well. Local historic community treasures include Meerschaum Vale Hall, Tregeagle Hall, Hanging Rock Hall and Ellangowan Hall. Their paces and facilities vary considerably. It just depends on what you are looking for!

Outdoor Venues
If you're dreaming of an outdoor ceremony or reception, or both(!) why not check out the following scenic spots?

Boulder Beach: Boulder Beach is located in the Byron Bay area, just south of Lennox Head, and offers stunning views of Julian Rocks. It's a popular spot for surfing and swimming, and it's also a great place to host an intimate headland ceremony or reception on the beach below. There is plenty of parking available and it’s surprisingly private, with the sea behind and a pandanus grove as a windbreak to the south. 

Crams Farm Reserve: Crams Farm Reserve is located by Clarrie Hall Dam, Commissioners Creek (near Doon Doon, south of Murwillumbah). It boasts more than 100 acres of pristine rainforest with all the facilities of a well established family picnic reserve space. It's home to native wildlife including koalas, wallabies and birds, making it a truly unique place to exchange your vows. The water views are spectacular and bird song always a part of the experience. 

Richmond River Lighthouse, East Ballina : When you want a view for less, have a chat with Ballina Council about booking the Richmond River Lighthouse as the small reserve boasts majestic view out to the ocean. Though you are in suburbia, the surrounding structures are not obvious and your photos will take your breath away. There are also restaurants nearby, including Shelly Beach Cafe, which can double up as a reception venue following the ceremony. 

Kingscliff Headland: This spot is featured above on a windy late afternoon immediately after a storm. Though exposed, it is a gorgeous spot for a ceremony, with the sea in the background. Plenty of parking and other adjoining spots for brilliant photos are key attractions. The township isn't far away and offers several reception venue opportunities.

Christmas Beach: This protected beach is not well known, yet it's one of the most picturesque spots for a wedding. It is on the north side of the Brunswick River, to the south of Ocean Shores. The sand is golden and pristine and the water crystal clear. 

These are just a few of the many amazing, less well known wedding destinations Northern Rivers has to offer. If you're planning a wedding in the area, I hope this list has given you some inspiration! And if you need help finding the perfect venue for your big day, don't hesitate to get in touch. I'd be happy to help!

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