Top 10 Wedding Venues in Brisbane

Top 10 Wedding Venues in Brisbane for Unforgettable Celebrations

By: Viva Weddings / Updated on: 12/07/2025

Are you planning a wedding in Brisbane and searching for the perfect venue? Whether you’re envisioning a lavish celebration, an intimate gathering, or a picturesque ceremony by the river, Brisbane has an impressive selection of wedding venues to suit every style. In this comprehensive guide, Viva Weddings will reveal the Top 10 Wedding Venues in Brisbane, covering everything from riverside views to elegant ballrooms, to help you find the perfect setting for your special day.

1. The Calile Hotel – Stylish Sophistication in Fortitude Valley

Located in the heart of Fortitude Valley, The Calile Hotel offers a luxurious urban oasis ideal for weddings that exude style and glamour. With its modern minimalist design, rooftop pool, and award-winning dining, this venue blends elegance and practicality. The hotel also features versatile wedding spaces, including the Grand Room and outdoor terrace options.

Why Choose The Calile:

• Five-star facilities and accommodation
• Flexible indoor/outdoor wedding spaces
• Exceptional catering and AV options

The Calile Hotel – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★★
  A luxurious and contemporary setting with minimalist architecture, pastel tones, and tropical resort vibes — perfect for modern, stylish weddings.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Situated in the heart of James Street, Brisbane’s premier lifestyle precinct, with boutique shops, fine dining, and nightlife all steps away.

• Customisability: ★★★☆
  The venue offers elegant pre-set spaces with some flexibility, but it’s best suited for couples who love The Calile’s signature aesthetic.

• Facilities: ★★★★★
  Features include a grand ballroom, rooftop terrace, luxury accommodation, poolside areas, spa, and in-house catering by award-winning chefs.

• Views: ★★★★☆
  Urban chic views over James Street and the city skyline, with lush palm-filled courtyards offering a relaxing, stylish backdrop for ceremonies and photos.

Visit The Calile

Nestled beneath the iconic Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves is a heritage-listed riverside precinct offering stunning views and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for wedding ceremonies and receptions, this location boasts unique venues like Bougainvillea House, Rivershed, and Felons Barrel Hall.

Why Choose Howard Smith Wharves:

• Scenic Brisbane River backdrop
• Range of venue sizes for different guest capacities
• Onsite accommodation and dining options

Howard Smith Wharves – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★★
  An exceptional mix of heritage architecture, urban energy, and natural beauty — perfect for modern, stylish, and unforgettable weddings.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Prime riverside position beneath the Story Bridge, just minutes from Brisbane CBD with excellent accessibility.

• Customisability: ★★★★☆
  Offers a range of spaces from industrial to luxe, with some flexibility depending on the venue space chosen.

• Facilities: ★★★★☆
  Multiple function venues, top-tier catering, onsite boutique hotel (Crystalbrook Vincent), surrounding bars and restaurants, and waterfront access.

• Views: ★★★★★
  Stunning panoramic views of the Brisbane River, city skyline, and illuminated Story Bridge — ideal for golden hour ceremonies and photo backdrops.

Visit Howard smith Wharves

Find the Best Brisbane Wedding Photographer

3. Customs House – Timeless Elegance by the River

As one of Brisbane’s most iconic heritage buildings, Customs House is the epitome of elegance and grandeur. Its classic architecture, riverfront location, and impeccable service make it a favourite for wedding ceremonies and formal receptions. The Long Room, with its cathedral ceilings and crystal chandeliers, is especially popular.

Why Choose Customs House:

• Historic charm with modern amenities
• Professional wedding coordination
• Panoramic views of the Brisbane River

Customs House – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★★
  Iconic and elegant, Customs House offers a timeless heritage setting with grand architecture, high ceilings, marble columns, and classic riverfront charm — perfect for a sophisticated wedding.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Ideally located in Brisbane CBD, right on the river with easy access to hotels, transport, and post-wedding celebrations.

• Customisability: ★★★☆
  The venue offers pre-styled spaces with classic decor. While stunning as-is, customisation is more limited compared to blank-canvas venues.

• Facilities: ★★★★
  Award-winning in-house catering, ceremony and reception spaces, private balconies, professional coordination, and exceptional service.

• Views: ★★★★
  Uninterrupted views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge, especially magical during twilight and evening receptions.

Visit Customes House

Find the Best Brisbane Wedding Photographer

4. Brisbane Powerhouse – Contemporary Creative Energy

This former power station turned arts centre offers a striking industrial aesthetic ideal for eclectic and creative weddings. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, including the Rooftop Terrace and Turbine Platform, Brisbane Powerhouse is perfect for couples looking for something unconventional.

Why Choose Brisbane Powerhouse:

• Unique and artistic atmosphere
• Iconic Brisbane landmark
• Onsite parking and restaurant facilities

Brisbane Powerhouse – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  A unique industrial-style venue set along the Brisbane River, combining raw character with artistic flair. Ideal for couples who want a dramatic and unconventional backdrop.
• Location: ★★★★☆
  Nestled in New Farm with riverfront views and park surroundings. Easily accessible by car, ferry, or bike, though a bit removed from major hotel zones.
• Customisability: ★★★★
  Offers several flexible spaces like the Rooftop Terrace and Turbine Platform. Styling freedom is encouraged, but some restrictions may apply in heritage-listed areas.
• Facilities: ★★★★
  Well-equipped with lighting, sound, and staging. In-house bar and catering available, though some setups may require additional equipment hire.
• Service & Support: ★★★★☆
  A professional events team experienced in weddings. Welcomes external planners and works well with a variety of suppliers.

Visit Brisbane Powerhouse

5. Victoria Park – Golf Club Elegance and Green Backdrops

Located just 2km from the Brisbane CBD, Victoria Park is known for its sweeping city views and lush surroundings. With multiple wedding spaces, including the Ballroom and Marquee, it caters to elegant ceremonies and stylish receptions.

Why Choose Victoria Park:

• Free parking and city skyline views
• Award-winning wedding catering
• Onsite bar, café, and golf facilities

Victoria Park – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  Elegant spaces surrounded by lush greenery and city views, offering a classic yet relaxed wedding vibe.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Just minutes from Brisbane CBD with ample parking and easy access for guests.

• Customisability: ★★★
  Offers several stylish function rooms with set layouts—some flexibility, but less of a blank canvas compared to warehouse-style venues.

• Facilities: ★★★★★
  On-site catering, ceremony spaces, golf course backdrops, and fully equipped reception areas.

• Views: ★★★★★
  Panoramic views of Brisbane city skyline and rolling green hills make it ideal for romantic ceremonies and stunning photo backdrops.

Visit Victoria Park

6. Lightspace – Industrial Chic in the Inner City

Situated in the heart of Fortitude Valley, Lightspace is a unique venue that blends rustic warehouse charm with sleek, contemporary design. This versatile space is highly customisable, making it the perfect choice for couples seeking a creative and personalised wedding experience. With exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, polished concrete floors, and a private bar, it offers a trendy and industrial-chic atmosphere that stands out from traditional venues.

Why Choose Lightspace:

• Blank canvas venue offering total creative freedom to design your dream wedding

• Convenient central location close to public transport and accommodation

• Professional in-house wedding team to assist with planning and execution

• Flexible layout options suitable for both intimate and large-scale celebrations

• Ample natural light and stylish finishes, ideal for stunning wedding photography

Whether you’re planning a minimalist gathering or a bold, themed celebration, Lightspace provides the flexibility and aesthetic to bring your vision to life.

Lightspace – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★
  A stunning blend of rustic warehouse charm and modern design, perfect for stylish and creative weddings.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Centrally located in Fortitude Valley, close to public transport, hotels, and nightlife.

• Customisability: ★★★★
  A true blank canvas venue, ideal for couples who want to design every detail their way.

• Facilities: ★★★☆
  Includes a private bar and lighting/sound setup; however, some furniture or décor may require additional hire.

• Service & Support: ★★★★☆
  Experienced in-house wedding team available, though some couples may prefer external planners.

Visit Lightspace

7. The Tivoli – Vintage Theatre Romance

For a truly unique wedding venue, The Tivoli offers historic ambience mixed with live performance flair. It’s a great fit for couples who want a dramatic and theatrical wedding experience. With tiered viewing areas, a main stage, and period décor, The Tivoli delivers unforgettable moments.

Why Choose The Tivoli:

• Iconic entertainment venue
• Built-in stage, lighting, and sound
• Atmosphere of vintage grandeur

The Tivoli – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  A historic theatre venue with vintage glamour, art deco styling, and theatrical charm—perfect for couples wanting a bold, dramatic wedding setting.
• Location: ★★★★☆
  Located in Fortitude Valley with convenient access to public transport, restaurants, and nightlife. Slightly less central than riverside venues but still well-connected.
• Customisability: ★★★★
  Flexible stage, lighting, and layout options make it easy to personalise. Great for creative couples, though heritage features set some design limits.
• Facilities: ★★★☆
  Stage, lighting rigs, in-house bar, and sound system included. Some specialised equipment or furnishings may need external hire.
• Service & Support: ★★★★☆
  Professional team experienced with live events and weddings. External planners and stylists welcome for full custom execution.

Visit The Tivoli

8. Old Government House – Brisbane’s Most Iconic Heritage Wedding Location

PHOTO BY WEDDINGHERO

Old Government House is one of Brisbane’s most iconic heritage venues, offering a timeless and elegant setting for your wedding day. Nestled within the lush grounds of Queensland University of Technology’s Gardens Point campus, this beautifully restored 19th-century building blends colonial grandeur with modern sophistication.

Why Choose Old Government House for Your Wedding

• Historic Charm: Built in 1862, this grand Georgian-style residence was once home to Queensland’s first Governors. Today, it provides a romantic and regal atmosphere steeped in history.

• Versatile Spaces: Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a larger celebration, the venue offers multiple indoor and outdoor options — including the Drawing Room, iconic verandas, and the surrounding courtyard lawns.

• Photo Opportunities: From ornate interiors and sweeping staircases to sandstone facades and gardens with city views, every corner is a photographer’s dream.

• Central Location: Conveniently located in Brisbane’s CBD, it offers easy access for your guests and nearby accommodation.

Ceremony and Reception Options

Ceremonies can be held in the historic Drawing Room or under the shade of heritage trees in the Courtyard.
Receptions can be arranged in partnership with The Gardens Club, located nearby within the grounds, offering catering and coordination services.

Whether you envision a traditional celebration or a modern wedding with historic flair, Old Government House provides a breathtaking backdrop that will make your day truly unforgettable.

Old Government House – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★★
  A breathtaking heritage venue with classical architecture, elegant interiors, and manicured gardens—perfect for timeless, romantic weddings.

• Location: ★★★★☆
  Situated within the QUT Gardens Point campus in Brisbane CBD, easily accessible but with limited nearby parking.

• Customisability: ★★★
  As a heritage-listed venue, styling and layout options are somewhat restricted to preserve its historical character.

• Facilities: ★★★★
  Offers ceremony and reception spaces, catering areas, and stunning indoor/outdoor flow; however, sound and lighting may require external vendors.

• Service & Support: ★★★★☆
  Managed by experienced event staff who are familiar with formal and elegant weddings, though not as flexible as some contemporary venues.

Visit Old Government House

9. The Inchcolm by Ode Hotels – Boutique Charm Meets Art Deco Elegance

This boutique hotel venue in Spring Hill is perfect for intimate weddings. Rich in Art Deco character, The Inchcolm offers timeless class paired with exceptional service and hospitality.

Why Choose The Inchcolm:

• Intimate and luxurious setting
• Onsite catering and accommodation
• Suits smaller, high-end weddings

The Inchcolm by Ode Hotels – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  A sophisticated boutique hotel blending 1920s Art Deco charm with contemporary luxury. Ideal for intimate, upscale weddings with character.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Prime location on Wickham Terrace in Brisbane CBD—easily accessible by public transport and close to city landmarks and accommodation.

• Customisability: ★★★☆
  Stylishly furnished with bold, curated interiors. While it offers unique backdrops, it’s more suited to couples who prefer ready-made ambience over full customisation.

• Facilities: ★★★★☆
  Includes ceremony and reception spaces, boutique hotel rooms for guests, in-house catering, and cocktail bar. However, venue capacity is best for smaller weddings.

• Service & Support: ★★★★★
  Known for Ovolo’s high standard of hospitality. Dedicated event coordinators offer excellent support from planning to execution.

Visit Ode Hotels

Perched on the top level of QUT’s Garden’s Point campus, Room Three Sixty offers spectacular views of the city skyline and Brisbane River. Its glass walls, sleek design, and adjacent gardens make it ideal for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Why Choose Room Three Sixty:

• Stunning panoramic views
• Modern and elegant design
• Ideal for both ceremonies and receptions

Room Three Sixty – Star Rating

• Venue Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  A modern and elegant space featuring floor-to-ceiling glass walls, city skyline views, and a rooftop vibe. Stylish and bright, perfect for contemporary weddings, though it lacks the historical character of heritage venues.

• Location: ★★★★★
  Located at QUT Gardens Point, it offers stunning views of the Brisbane River, Kangaroo Point, and city landmarks—plus easy access to transport and nearby hotels.

• Customisability: ★★★★
  A flexible blank-canvas venue with ample space for styling, lighting, and layout changes. Couples can bring in their own vendors and decorations, giving strong creative freedom.

• Facilities: ★★★★☆
  Fully air-conditioned with AV setup, bridal room, and catering access. Offers an indoor ceremony + reception combo, but being part of QUT, some restrictions may apply.

• Service & Support: ★★★★
  Managed professionally through QUT Venues, with structured event coordination. Service is reliable but may not be as boutique or personalised as private venues.

View Room Three Sixty

How to Find the Right Wedding Venue: A Complete Guide for Couples

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most important decisions in your wedding planning journey. It sets the tone for your big day, influences your budget, and determines nearly every other detail — from guest count to styling options. With thousands of venues available, it can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry — we’re here to help you find the perfect place to say “I do.”

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to find the right wedding venue, including key factors to consider, questions to ask, and mistakes to avoid.

Why We Need to Find the Wedding Venue First？

Before we step into how to find the perfect wedding venue, let’s talk about why it should be your very first priority.

Securing your wedding venue lays the foundation for everything else in your planning journey. From your date to your vendors, many major decisions depend on where you choose to get married.

Here’s why the venue comes first:

• It locks in your wedding date. Popular venues book out well in advance — especially during peak seasons — so choosing your venue early helps you secure the date you want.

• It sets the tone and style for your wedding. Whether you’re envisioning a romantic garden ceremony, an elegant ballroom reception, or something modern and minimal, your venue defines the overall aesthetic.

• It affects your budget and planning approach. Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, while others are more DIY, impacting everything from catering to furniture hire.

• It determines guest capacity and logistics. The venue will influence how many people you can invite, how easily guests can get there, and how the day will flow.

Once your venue is locked in, everything else — your photographer, florist, timeline, and even your dress — will start to fall into place naturally.

Step 1: Define Your Wedding Vision

Now that you understand why the venue comes first, it’s time to define your wedding vision — because knowing what you want makes finding the right place so much easier.

Before you start searching or booking tours, sit down with your partner and talk through a few key questions:

• Do you picture your wedding indoors, outdoors, or a mix of both?

• Is your style more classic and elegant, modern and minimalist, or something completely offbeat?

• Are you planning a local celebration, or dreaming of a destination wedding?

• How many guests do you want to invite?

• What’s your rough budget?

Having a shared vision will help you quickly narrow down venue options and avoid wasting time on places that don’t align with your vibe or priorities.

Step 2: Set Your Budget

Understand the Cost of a Wedding Venue

The cost of a wedding venue can vary dramatically — from a few hundred dollars for a simple park permit or backyard hire, to $20,000 or more for a high-end estate, hotel ballroom, or waterfront venue. Before you get too attached to a dreamy location that’s out of reach financially, it’s crucial to understand what you can realistically afford and what’s included.

Here are the key things to figure out first:

• Your total wedding budget.
  This is the big picture number — everything from the venue and catering to the dress, flowers, photography, and entertainment.

• How much of that budget is going toward the venue.
  On average, couples allocate around 30%–50% of their total budget to the venue (especially if it includes food and drinks). Be realistic about this amount early on.

• Do you prefer an all-inclusive package or à la carte style?
  Some venues offer bundled packages that include catering, beverages, staff, furniture, styling, and coordination — which can simplify planning but may be less flexible. Others charge only for the space, and you’ll need to bring in your own vendors (and possibly manage more logistics).

Pro Tip: Ask About Hidden or Extra Costs

A venue’s base price might seem reasonable, but small line items can add up fast. Always ask the venue coordinator for a full breakdown, and don’t hesitate to get clarification in writing.

Here are some commonly overlooked costs:

• Cleaning fees
  Some venues charge $200–$500 for post-event cleaning, especially if outside catering or DIY styling is used.

• Corkage fees
  If you’re supplying your own alcohol, the venue may charge $5–$15 per bottle to open and serve it.

• Cake-cutting fees
  Bringing an external cake? You could be charged $2–$8 per slice for staff to cut and serve.

• Security deposits
  A refundable bond may be required (often $500–$1,000+), especially for DIY or after-hours events.

• Insurance requirements
  Some venues require event liability insurance or public liability coverage, particularly for outdoor spaces or DIY setups.

• Overtime fees
  Going over your contracted time can lead to unexpected hourly charges — sometimes hundreds per hour.

• Vendor access timing
  Ask whether your vendors can bump in the night before or early in the morning. Limited access hours can affect your schedule and setup costs.

• Equipment or furniture hire
  Does the venue provide tables, chairs, lighting, sound systems, and linens? If not, you’ll need to rent them separately.

If you don’t want to spend too much on your wedding, we also have an article titled: “Is $5000 Enough for a Wedding?”

Taking the time to understand both the visible and hidden costs of your venue will help you avoid surprises — and allow you to book a space that truly aligns with your budget and vision.

Step 3: Starting Your Wedding Venue Search

There are countless ways to discover incredible wedding venues — you just need to know where to look and what to watch for. Whether you’re planning a luxury celebration or an intimate gathering, casting a wide net at the beginning can help you uncover hidden gems and avoid overlooking perfect-fit locations.

Here are some of the most effective ways to start your venue search:

• Wedding directories and venue marketplaces
  Sites like WeddingWire, EasyWeddings, The Knot, and WedShed (great for Australian couples) are built for venue discovery. You can filter by location, guest count, style, and amenities. Many listings also include pricing estimates, photos, and reviews — which can save a lot of research time.

• Google Maps with specific filters
  Try searching phrases like “barn wedding venue near Brisbane” or “outdoor ceremony locations Brisbane” in Google Maps. This lets you visualise proximity, explore nearby options, and read local reviews directly. You can even switch to satellite view to get a feel for outdoor space and privacy.

• Instagram and Pinterest inspiration
  These platforms are goldmines for visual ideas. Search hashtags like #brisbaneweddingvenue, #vineyardwedding, or #sunshinecoastwedding to see real-life celebrations at potential venues. You’ll often stumble upon places you wouldn’t find in directories.

• Photographers’ websites and blogs
  Wedding photographers usually feature galleries of real weddings, complete with location details. These galleries showcase the venue under real lighting, weather, and decor — giving you a much more realistic preview than staged brochures.

• Recommendations from friends, vendors, or planners
  Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth. Friends who’ve recently gotten married, or vendors like florists and celebrants, often have firsthand insights into venue quality, staff responsiveness, and hidden costs. Wedding planners, of course, usually have curated venue lists and know how to match you with the right vibe and budget.

Stay Organised: Create a Shortlist

As you browse, keep a running shortlist of venues that catch your eye. For each one, record:

• Maximum guest capacity

• Venue hire cost (and what’s included)

• Available dates

• Style and atmosphere (rustic, modern, coastal, etc.)

• Accessibility and parking

• Pros and cons from reviews or site visits

Most couples narrow down to 3–5 top choices for in-person tours. Seeing a venue in person will help you visualise the day, meet the staff, and clarify details that photos or listings don’t capture.

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Step 4: Visit and Ask the Right Questions

Once you’ve booked a venue tour, come prepared. Don’t just look at the scenery — ask questions that will affect your entire wedding experience. For example:

Practical Questions:

• What’s the capacity (seated and standing)?

• Are there backup options for rain?

• What are the start and end times for events?

• Is there on-site accommodation or partner hotels nearby?

• Is parking available or easy to arrange?

Vendor Questions:

• Can we bring our own caterer / photographer / planner?

• Is there a preferred vendor list?

• What is included in the venue package (e.g., furniture, lighting, staff)?

• Can we have live music or fireworks?

Budget Questions:

• What’s the deposit and cancellation policy?

• Are there seasonal price changes?

• Do you offer weekday discounts?

Document everything. Even the best-looking venue might not work logistically.

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Step 5: Consider the Guest Experience

Think about your guests — especially those traveling from out of town or with special needs. Ask yourself:

• Is the venue easy to find and access?

• Are there enough restrooms, seating, and shaded areas?

• Is there wheelchair accessibility?

• What’s the transportation situation (Uber, buses, parking)?

The more seamless the experience, the better the mood on your big day.

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Step 6: Think Beyond the Ceremony

Will your venue work well for all wedding moments?

• Ceremony: Is the space scenic and quiet? Is there enough shade?

• Cocktail hour: Is there a relaxed, photogenic spot for mingling?

• Reception: Can it handle food, dancing, music, and lighting?

• Photo spots: Are there beautiful backdrops nearby, or do you need to travel?

Bonus tip: Ask if you can visit the venue during another wedding or at sunset — so you can visualise the ambience.

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Step 7: Read the Contract Carefully

Before signing anything, review the contract in detail. Look out for:

• Cancellation clauses

• Payment schedule

• What’s included and what isn’t

• Liability and insurance policies

• Rules for setup/cleanup, decor, alcohol, noise levels, and pets

If you’re unsure, ask for clarification or have a wedding planner or lawyer take a look.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many couples get overwhelmed and make rushed decisions. Here are mistakes to avoid when searching for the right wedding venue:

• Booking too early without knowing guest count or budget

• Ignoring hidden fees that blow out your budget later

• Falling for looks without thinking about logistics

• Not asking about restrictions (e.g., noise curfews, alcohol bans)

• Assuming inclusions — always get it in writing

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What Makes a Venue “Right” for You?

There’s no universal “best” venue — the right wedding venue is the one that matches your personality, budget, and vision. Ask yourself:

• Can I picture myself walking down the aisle here?

• Do I feel relaxed and excited in this space?

• Will my guests feel comfortable and have fun?

Trust your gut — and don’t settle for anything that feels off.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Wedding Venue in Brisbane

Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a small intimate wedding, the venue sets the tone for your entire day – brisbane wedding photographer. Brisbane offers an incredible variety of venues that cater to every couple’s taste—from heritage-listed buildings to modern rooftop escapes – brisbane wedding photographer.

When selecting your dream venue, consider your wedding theme, guest list, location, and available services – brisbane wedding photographer. Make site visits, talk to wedding coordinators, and read reviews to ensure the venue aligns with your vision – brisbane wedding photographer. With the right choice, your Brisbane wedding will be more than memorable—it will be magical – brisbane wedding photographer.

For couples looking for timeless storytelling and effortless elegance, Viva Weddings offers professional photography tailored to capture the heart of your big day – brisbane wedding photographer.

Viva Weddings are Brisbane wedding photographers and videographers with over 10 years of experience, dedicated to making your dream wedding come true. We believe true colour and timelessness matter most—that’s why we keep our photos as natural as possible, ensuring that even decades later, your memories still feel fresh and never go out of style.

Click the photo below to explore our wedding stories.