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Port Stephens Reception Venues

Alright folks, buckle up because we’re diving into the wild world of wedding planning!

Picture this: you’ve said yes (or they did, but details, details), and now it’s time to navigate through the delightful maze of decisions. From the dress that makes you feel like royalty to whether your bouquet should be more peonies or hydrangeas, every choice feels crucial. But hold up, before you get lost in a Pinterest vortex deciding between “brights” and “pastel” for your color scheme, there’s a crucial first step: finding your dream wedding venue and reception center.

Let’s be real here—some of these places are more popular than avocado toast on Instagram. You might need to book your spot before you even know what your hashtag will be.

Above: Valhalla Restaurant Bar & Their pine rainforest

So, grab your coffee (or wine, no judgment here), and let’s explore what Port Stephens has in store for your big day.

Trust me, it’s never too early to start planning, especially when “I do” is in the air and everyone’s ready to RSVP with a plus one. Let’s find that perfect venue that’ll make your wedding day as epic as that viral TikTok dance you’ll be learning for the reception.

 Valhalla Restaurant Bar

Valhalla Restaurant Bar at Bob’s Farm, Full of rustic charm in a setting that’s as memorable as your love story! Nestled in the heart of nature, Valhalla isn’t just a place to eat—it’s the perfect spot to say “I do.”

Imagine exchanging vows down a stunning tree lined driveway, surrounded by lush greenery and the soft breeze whispering through the trees. It certainly makes for great ceremony photographs!

Explore the tall pine tree rainforest for your location photographs with your loved one. No driving to any other location spots is needed, you have it all at your finger tips!

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a lavish affair, Valhalla has the space and the flexibility to make your wedding dreams come true.

Take a look into Weddings here:

Jessica and Melissa’s Valhalla Wedding

Blake and Celine’s Wedding

Saltwater Restaurant, Fingal Bay

Saltwater Restaurant is situated at the Fingal Bay Surf Club – upstairs. It has panoramic views over to Fingal Bay kiddies corner, through past Fingal Bay Island and far to the northern end of Fingal Bay beach.

With their sundrenched balcony, It is perfect for afternoon ceremonies with a stunning back drop to boot!

With the sandy beach right in front, there is no need to go anywhere else.

Little Beach Boathouse

Situated on the Southern end of Little Beach, Little Beach Boathouse has two reception areas in which you can choose from. Upstairs in the Restaurant – keeping warm and snug inside for those cooler months, or down on the deck will bring you closer to the bay in a casual environment, a great way to relax and enjoy the wedding events as they unfold.

Nelson Bay Golf Club

The Golf Club at Nelson Bay has been a popular wedding venue for many many years.

After the fire back in 2015, They rebuild a gorgeous new club and have extended their wedding services to include ceremonies on the golf course!

Take a look into a Nelson Bay Golf Club Wedding here:

Jenna & Craig’s wedding

The Retreat, Anna Bay

The Retreat Anna Bay is positioned on Nelson Bay Road, down a long driveway to nestle into the foot of the sand dunes.

They provide accommodation for the bridal couple and guests, which makes it a – NO TAXI – night!

A popular way with weddings held at The Retreat, is their bushland setting at the rear of the property, with a glimpse of the sand dunes, is a beautiful ceremony location, Jump the fence with the bridal party for breath taking sand dunes bridal portraits and back to party in the reception hall.

They provide a complete DIY set up, or can assist you in any way, such as organizing catering, entertainment and decorating to suit your theme and style. Why not add a few garden games out the back, keeping your guests entertained the entire night!

Shoal Bay Country Club

Situated in Ramanda at Shoal Bay, opposite Shoal Bay beach. Shoal Bay Country Club has multiple reception rooms available to choose from. From large weddings to intimate gatherings, there is a room size to suit you.

With the beach stones throw away, a popular choice has also been to hold the wedding ceremony on the beach (check for tides), or near by at Little Beach Lighthouse, Barry Park at Fingal Bay or down on the beach at Zenith Beach.

Take a look at a recent wedding at Shoal Bay Country Club here:

Richard & Belinda’s Wedding

B Farm by Murray’s – Bob’s Farm

Murrays Brewery, located in the sand hills on Nelson Bay road, Bobs Farm is a great rustic, feel good, wedding location for the beer and wine lovers.

Their wedding reception venue can be dressed up with the country charm, overlooking the vineyard.

Murray’s also offer a ceremony location amongst the vines, a complete all-in-one package!

Restaurant 2317

Formerly The Point, Restaurant 2317 is a great venue overlooking to the west /sunset beach at Soldiers Point.

I have not photographed at this venue since the changing of hands, but these images will give you a feel for this beautiful marina location.

Perfect for boaties and watching the sunset on what would have been a gorgeous wedding day.

The Soldiers Point Marina also has a wedding ceremony location amongst the boats!!! Go ask them!

The Anchorage

Everybody… clap your hands, clap your hands! (I’ve got that song stuck in your head now, don’t I?!)

Seaside weddings are back at The Anchorage, Port Stephens.

Offering Two exquisite backdrops to exchange your vowels, multiple venue options to host your reception, and luxurious accommodation for you and your guests to rest in after dancing the night away.

Horizons Golf Resort, Salamander Bay

Horizon Golf Resort in Salamander Bay, where the greens stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s the perfect wedding location for golf enthusiasts. Imagine jumping in the gold buggy and taking on the greens to find beautiful paper bark tree backdrops and wooden bridges. It’s a great venue for an all-in-one location wedding.

Nelson Bay West Diggers Club

It has been a few years since I have visited Nelson Bay Wests Diggers Club, formerly the Nelson Bay RSL (Razzle Dazzle)!

The area upstairs, which in the past was the pokies and raffle winning area.. I attended those raffles every Wednesday with my friend Ally, we ALWAYS won, which was great, as for back then, in my 20’s, what I won at the raffles, fed me for the week. lol

Anyway, back to the Razzle Dazzle, Now I know, many of you love birds may have very well met on the dance for at Wests or by the bar, What a great way to tell your love story, than to have your wedding reception at the verry same venue that you met!

Nelson Bay Bowling Club

Wether your high up on the roof top in the Crows Nest Room, or downstairs, (where I used to perform on stage back in my primary school years with the Tomaree Music Makers). This is another great venue in Port Stephens to choose from. Choose to over looking the greens or the water down by the bay.

Wet option? Yes you can hold your ceremony in the reception room too (We’ve had to do that in the past before). No sweat!

Soldiers Point Bowling Club

It has been many years since I have photographed a wedding at Soldiers Point Bowling club, But I highly rate it, as I held my fist wedding reception there too! lol

Choose from two rooms depending on the size of your guest list.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any photos to share at this stage, as, I haven’t been back there since the good old film days. (Yes, I have been around that long)!

Oaks Pacific Blue Resort

Picture this, your ceremony beside the famous never ending resort pool! Following up with your reception in the function room. This is a great venue for those who love the pool side life and general summer vibes.

This venue, I also have not photographed for a while, so cannot share any images till I am next there.

Pacific Dunes Greenhouse Eatery, Medowie

A golf course experience wedding in Medowie for your wedding reception.

Set on a sprawling property, the venue boasts extensive grounds that make the perfect backdrop for both your wedding ceremony and reception. You’ll love the picturesque surroundings of this gorgeous venue, with endless possibilities for your wedding photos amidst lush greenery and manicured lawns.

Unlocking Hidden Gems: Your Guide to Unique Wedding Venues in Port Stephens

I’ve got a treat for you – Keep reading till the end…. As a seasoned wedding photographer in this slice of paradise for over 20 years, I’ve seen venues come and go, but there are a few hidden gems that have somehow eluded my lens.

Bannisters Soldiers Point
Ah, Bannisters. Known for its sweeping views and coastal elegance, this place screams sophistication. Whether you’re dreaming of a garden ceremony or a starlit reception, Bannisters Soldiers Point sets the stage for romance with a capital R.

Crest, Anna Bay
Perched in Anna Bay, Crest is where contemporary chic meets coastal vibes. Imagine saying your vows against a backdrop of dunes and ocean breeze—talk about Instagram gold! It’s modern, it’s fresh, and it’s waiting for your personal touch.

Heaven Gardens, Salt Ash
If a garden wedding is on your radar, Heaven Gardens should be your radar. Tucked away in Salt Ash, this lush oasis offers serenity and greenery aplenty. Perfect for those who want to exchange vows surrounded by nature’s finest.

Lorn Rose Farm

Ah, I was so close to having a wedding at Lorn Rose Farm in 2024, But the happy couple decided to elope to Switzerland. The Lorn Rose Farm is nestled between the banks of the Hunter River and the local farmland of Lorn. Beautiful jacaranda trees, stunning rustic charm cottages and of course Rose gardens.

Stanley Park, Fullerton Cove
A historic estate with sprawling grounds? Yes, please! Stanley Park exudes old-world charm and grandeur. Think towering trees, manicured lawns, and a touch of vintage elegance—ideal for couples who want a timeless backdrop for their special day.

Sunset + Vine at Wonganella Estate
Wonganella Estate brings the vineyard experience to Port Stephens. Sunset + Vine is their pièce de résistance—a blend of rustic charm and vineyard sophistication. Cheers to celebrating love with a glass of locally crafted wine in hand!

Tanilba House
History buffs, rejoice! Tanilba House offers a slice of Port Stephens’ past with its colonial architecture and waterfront views. It’s like stepping into a Jane Austen novel but with a modern twist—a perfect fusion of old-world charm and contemporary celebrations.

The Oasis, One Mile Beach
Last but certainly not least, The Oasis at One Mile Beach. Catering up to 80 guests, If you are dreaming of a coastal wedding venue where you can immerse yourself in nature, tranquility and beautiful tropical gardens, and have all your guests stay onsite with you or in accommodation walking distance away, then this is the perfect venue for you!

Now, here’s the cherry on top: I’m offering $500 off any 6 or 8-hour wedding coverage if you choose one of these venues for your big day. Yep, you heard right—consider it a match made in wedding heaven, but hurry, because this offer is as exclusive as these venues themselves.

So, if you’re ready to make waves (or maybe just some vows), these venues are waiting to sweep you off your feet. Let’s turn your wedding day dreams into picture-perfect reality in Port Stephens. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!

Natalie

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