Winter weddings on the bay

Commonly asked questions

What happens if it’s too cold or wet for a rooftop ceremony?

When your reception is downstairs in the Harbour Room, a wet-weather plan comes as standard. We leave the decision as late as we can to give you the best chance of the rooftop, and we’ll call you if the forecast looks doubtful so we can agree the plan together. If your ceremony comes inside, floor-to-ceiling windows keep the bay and city skyline in view, and the room is every bit as breathtaking.

Will it be dark for our photos?

Melbourne’s winter sun sets between about 5:10pm in June and 6pm by late August, so golden hour comes earlier. Plan an afternoon ceremony and you’ll have that soft light over the bay for portraits on the rooftop and the pier. Once the sun goes down, the city skyline lights up behind your reception, which makes a striking backdrop of its own.

Will our guests be warm enough?

Completely. Harbour Room has full heating and cooling, so your guests stay comfortable all evening while they take in the bay through floor-to-ceiling glass. On a cool winter night, the lounge’s onyx fireplace makes a lovely spot to gather between courses or for a quiet moment together.

Is a winter date easier to book?

Yes, peak season runs September to April, so winter dates are easier to secure. We can generally accommodate off-peak weddings with three to four months’ notice, sometimes even later, and the winter offer gives you a complimentary welcome cocktail and 10% off food and beverage packages.

Will the menu suit a winter wedding?

Absolutely. Our menus always include hearty, warming dishes, and your event planner will help you tailor the food to the season so your guests stay cosy and well fed on a cool winter’s night. Ask for the current menu and we’ll send it with your quote.