We are spoilt for choice in Melbourne. Everyday I see so many places that would make great wedding venues or be amazing spots for wedding photos. However, if you’re like me, I just wanted to get married somewhere different, somewhere away from my daily routine and sphere of existence in the inner city. Do you know the feeling?!

We ultimately chose to get married back in my hometown Auckland, NZ. But that was probably because we hadn’t discovered Phillip Island yet!  This island paradise is literally right on Melbourne’s doorstep and is an amazing location for a destination wedding. Here’s my 4 great reasons why:

1. PROXIMITY – It’s so close to Melbourne (only 1hr45 from Richmond!) but still far enough to feel like you’ve escaped. Your guests can make a proper holiday out of it or they can easily come for a day trip.

2. VENDOR’S GALORE – the island isn’t so isolated that you have to byo esky! No no no. Phillip Island has everything you could possibly need for your wedding; caterers, wedding planners, a specialist wedding florist (i.e. moi, Morrie & Maisie Event Flowers), supermarkets, extensive accommodation options, taxis (even Uber these days!), a wide selection of venues (rustic, country, clifftop, vineyard, romantic churches) and of course don’t forget the beaches for your epic photo shoot.

3. GUEST ENTERTAINMENT – there are SO many ways to keep your guests busy when they’re not celebrating with you. Whether they are foodies, outdoor adventurers, petrol heads or families with kids, they won’t be short of things to do. Please take my word for it. I’m going to write more on guest entertainment in future blog posts so keep an eye out.

4. STUNNING PHOTOSHOOT LOCATIONS – I know I’ve already mentioned the beaches but they really are insta-celeb worthy!! Take your pick from the isolated wild surf beaches on one side or the calmer, golden sand beaches on the other. There’s also an abundance of paddocks and nature reserves full of gum trees for that rustic themed shoot.

I could go on and on about how fabulous Phillip Island is for weddings. It really is the type of destination where you won’t have to stress about anything. But why don’t you come down for a weekend and check it out for yourself. Treat yourself to a weekend away on the Bass Coast and blame it on wedding research. And while you’re down here, get in touch with me, your #flowerguru – we can chat about your wedding flowers and you can pick my brain for Phillip Island wedding tips.

Hope to see you soon!