Some wedding venues are chosen because they’re pretty. Others actually mean something.

For Erin + Rhys, Old Melbourne Gaol made perfect sense.

The two of them met while working in a youth prison, so getting married inside one of Melbourne’s most iconic prison buildings felt less like a gimmick and more like a full-circle moment. Dark, moody, a little chaotic, and completely personal — exactly how alternative weddings should feel.

There’s a reason people keep coming back to film.

It’s not about nostalgia for the sake of it, it’s about how it feels. If you’ve been drawn to 35mm film wedding photos but can’t quite explain why, this is probably it.

Most people aren’t used to being in front of a camera, especially in a setting where it actually matters. So yeah, it can feel a bit weird at first. The good news? You don’t need to be confident, photogenic, or “good at photos” to end up with natural, relaxed wedding photos.

Not every wedding needs chair covers, round tables, and a strict timeline. If you’re planning something that feels a bit more like you — less traditional, more personal — Melbourne has some seriously good options.

These are some of my favourite alternative and non-traditional wedding venues in Melbourne for couples who want something different.

You know those shoots where everything just clicks? This one at Welcome to Thornbury in Melbourne was one of those rare gems: perfect mix of fun, nostalgia, and pure connection. From the first frame, it was clear this wasn’t going to be your typical engagement session.

Eloping is all about creating a wedding day that feels true to you, and if you have children, including them can make it even more special. While the idea of bringing little ones to an elopement might seem overwhelming, with the right approach, it can turn into a heartwarming, unforgettable experience. Here are some simple, yet thoughtful ways to ensure your children feel involved, happy, and at ease – so your big day is as magical for them as it is for you.

When Niamh + Darren chose to forgo the traditional wedding route, they crafted a day that was uniquely theirs - intimate, candid, and refreshingly non-conformist. You know how I like it! Frogs Pond Vineyard in Red Hill on the Morninton Peninsula, with its charm and European-esque vibes, set the perfect backdrop for their story. You'd hardly believe it's only an hour from Melbourne.