With more than 20,000 weddings under their belt, The Dockside Group Wedding Team have seen and heard it all.
Table of Contents
Because there is such a plethora of information, it’s so easy to get overwhelmed; so we got you the inside word on the most common mistakes and misconceptions when it comes to booking your venue from this team of wedding experts!
1. Plan Ahead
It is so important to lock in your ceremony and venue first because, depending on the time of year you marry, availability may be limited. We recommend booking at least a year in advance and this should always be the first step once he’s popped the question.
2. Don’t Look at Cost, Look at Inclusion
This one’s for the savvy brides! When comparing venue packages, pay attention to the inclusions before the cost. The most expensive package might actually be the most value for money, as it includes everything you’ll need. Often, when you go for a bigger package, the rates are more cost effective, than if you were to source all of the suppliers separately, so you’re saving yourself time and money. You might even get a few hidden extras, like 5-star wedding night accommodation, limo transfers and wedding reception décor.
3. Don’t Fret if You Don’t Have a Planner
It’s not always a necessity to have a wedding planner, as some venues have staff who are more than qualified to help! Dockside Group gives brides a dedicated team who live and breathe weddings and they’re always happy to assist with wedding planning. They also make themselves available from the start to the finish of the wedding planning process.
4. Expect Discounts
When booking a wedding with Dockside Group, you automatically get access to an elite list of preferred suppliers who provide exclusive discounts. Brides and grooms should discuss similar exclusive offers with whichever venue they decide to go with, as you never know how much money you can save unless you ask!
5. Multi-Purpose
It’s so much more convenient to book a space which can cater for both the reception and the ceremony. Your guests won’t have to think about travelling between the venues and the bridal party have a base for photography. Dockside Group has a number of options when it comes to this as they’re all for ways of reducing stress on the Big Day.
6. Have a Plan B!
Unfortunately, the weather is just about the only thing you can’t control on your wedding day, so be sure to ask your venue about wet-weather options. That way, you won’t get any nasty surprises on the day of your wedding when your guests are left out in the rain.
7. Think Outside the Box
If you’re on a tight budget, enquire about discounted rates for weddings that take place during the week or lunchtime receptions. Learn what times of the year are peak for weddings (summer/spring) and opt to have a lush winter wedding at a discounted rate to enjoy an extravagant European honeymoon!
Dockside Group – Since being founded nearly 30 years ago, Dockside Group has grown dramatically to become Sydney’s most iconic venue and restaurant group with a range of spaces that boast Sydney harbour views, enviable locations and deliciously fabulous hospitality. With Dockside Pavilion, Dockside, L’Aqua, Star Room and Eat Love Pizza in Darling Harbour and Waterfront, Wolfies and Italian Village at The Rocks part of the collection, Dockside Group is ideal for business events, weddings, private parties, school formals and fine dining.
