How To Plan Your Wedding Down To The Tiniest Detail

The day you slip into your white dress, walk down the aisle and exchange vows with your beloved is one of life’s extra special moments. It’s an opportunity for you to share and celebrate your love with your nearest and dearest, and to cheers to the next step of your adventure. However, planning your special day isn’t a “one size fits all” situation. Different couples will value different things when it comes to their wedding, and working within your budget can be tricky if you aren’t confident navigating the world of wedding planning.

Whether you’re in the middle of planning your big day or just starting the adventure, we’ve put together a few wedding planning tips that will help make planning every single detail of your wedding as easy as possible!

Look for ways you can make your wedding unique to you

One of our biggest tips for couples wanting a unique wedding is to dissect every little aspect of the day. If you don’t like the idea of a traditional wedding cake, forego one for cupcakes, doughnuts or ice creams instead. If you and your partner are known for throwing epic parties, why not keep the ceremony as simple as possible so that you and your guests can get to the after-party sooner? If the norms and “rules” around weddings make you uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to ignore them in favour of what will actually make you and your partner happy – after all, it’s your special day!

Select a venue that works for you

For many couples, selecting a venue is the hardest and most nerve-wracking aspect of planning a wedding. After all, it really does shape the entire day. With six uniquely beautiful wedding venues to choose from, Victoria Park can cater for intimate affairs of 50 guests right up to massive celebrations of 380 guests. Each of our venues includes stunning finishing touches (such as sparkling chandeliers or floor-to-ceiling city views) and can be styled to suit your individual theme. With private bars, exclusive outdoor decks, and all in a convenient location only 3km from Brisbane City, you won’t find a more perfect destination for your wedding.

Make it a memorable experience for your guests

While your wedding day is ultimately about you and your partner, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate with your loved ones. You know how earlier we were thinking about different ways to make your wedding unique to you? This will come in handy when planning special moments for your guests to enjoy! If you choose to have your photos taken between the ceremony and reception, why not set up a pop-up garden bar in The Orchard where your guests can enjoy custom cocktails and a playlist of your favourite love songs? Or, instead of serving classic desserts, treat your guests to ice creams cones while they boogie on the dancefloor.

Get extra help where needed – you’re only human!

One of the most important things to know before you start planning your big day is that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. When you choose to host your wedding at Victoria Park, we’ll provide you with a dedicated wedding planner who will help you plan every aspect of your day and help ensure it runs smoothly. Styling and décor is another big part of your day, but if you’re not confident with your own styling skills working with a wedding stylist can help you enjoy the wedding of your dreams.

Make sure you do plenty of research on local vendors (or chat to your personal wedding planner) and put together a mood board so that you have a detailed idea of how you want your wedding to look and feel. A stylist can help bring all the details together and will help add the final touches to your venue to help make your wedding day “you”. Alternatively, with a range of styling packages on offer at Victoria Park, as well as a list of trusted suppliers, your dedicated wedding planner can take all the stress off your hands!

Plan a run sheet, but don’t be afraid to run wild

Once you’ve put all the work into planning your special day, it helps to have a run sheet (even if it’s a brief one) so that you and your bridal party, guests, vendors and wedding venue have an idea of how the day should run smoothly. Your wedding planner or photographer will typically take care of this, but make sure you run your eyes over it to make sure it suits you.

If you want to have speeches before the drinks get out of hand, plan accordingly. If you don’t want to leave the party to take photos with the bridal party, make sure you organise a pre-reception space for your guests to enjoy a few drinks and some mingling. It’s also a good idea to keep the reception plans fairly flexible – the last thing you want to do when the dancefloor is pumping is leave to organise dessert!

Do what feels right for you (and ignore everything else!)

Ultimately, the best way to plan your wedding is to do what feels right for you and your partner. Working with a venue and wedding planner that understands what you want of your special day is vital to ensuring that you enjoy the wedding of your dreams. Stay true to what feels right to you and the rest will follow!

Planning a Brisbane wedding? Read more about Victoria Park Wedding Venue. Here at Victoria Park, we are thrilled to be recognised as one of Brisbane’s most romantic and spectacular wedding venues. From our sprawling gardens and uninterrupted views of Brisbane City to private bars and tailored menus, our team of wedding planners are committed to making your planning process as seamless and enjoyable as possible. 

On Wednesday 12th December we hosted our annual Ladies Golf Christmas Tournament and Lunch.

With a field of 86 ladies this was our biggest year yet!

This year’s theme was Christmas, and the ladies well and truly got into the spirit of dressing up both themselves and their golf carts. Scroll down below to see a few of our favourite photos from the day.

Congratulations to Pauline Rushton and Allison Terrey who won the front 9 and back 9 respectively.

Thank you to all of our ladies and we look forward to seeing you back next year!

View all the pictures from the day

 

We Asked 20 Top Wedding Industry Pros to Predict the Biggest LGBTQ Wedding Trends of 2019.

We asked each contributor for their top 3 trend predictions for the coming wedding season and have compiled all of their expert answers for you below. If you’re currently planning your 2019-2020 wedding, read on for the low-down on everything from colour palettes to wedding party size predictions for this years wedding season. 

Kate Schaefer

https://www.handhweddings.com/

In 2019, LGBTQ+ folks will continue to throw wedding traditions out the window.

• We’ve been seeing a lot of small ceremonies and wedding weekends where the couple gets to spend quality time with their guests versus a huge one night affair.
• Wedding party attire has been one area where LGBTQ+ couples excel – gone are the days of matching, frilly dresses. Members of wedding parties don attire that is reflective of their gender identity, which allows everyone to be comfortable and enjoy themselves.
• Lastly, eco-conscious and ethical weddings will take center stage (and, honestly, it’s about time). Couples are becoming more and more aware of the excessive waste in the wedding industry and they are taking a stand by doing something about it.

Elizabeth Donato

https://www.uniqueeventsbyelizabeth.com/

LGBTQ couples are bold and authentic. Their weddings almost always stray from the traditional, and that’s what I love so much about planning LGBTQ events. The top 3 trends I have noted stem from this breaking-away from tradition to create a wedding the uniquely represents their story.

• Blended Wedding Parties. More and more couples want their wedding parties to be composed of those who have impacted their relationship and witnessed their love story first-hand—gender need not apply. In 2019, we will see not only a rise in Bridesmen and Groomsmaids, but also in wedding parties not necessarily divided down the middle. Instead, wedding parties will be blended, including the people that mean the most to both members of the wedding couple.
• Non-traditional wedding attire. LGBTQ couples recognize that traditional wedding attire (white, flowy wedding dress/pressed black tuxedo) may not fit their style or story. In 2019, we will see more couples opting for custom suits, tuxedos, dresses, etc. in non-traditional styles and colors. Your wedding day likely the biggest party you will ever throw; why not wear something unique and personalized that makes you feel like a million bucks?
• Destination elopements. LGBTQ couples share a unique story not only of their relationship, but also of triumph. Some couples want to share this victory with all their friends and family with a big wedding celebration, but an increasing number of couples are choosing to elope in a destination that means something special to them. They want to share this intimate moment between themselves or with their closest friends and family, and it makes for a beautiful love story of overcoming all obstacles.

Greg Jenkins

https://www.bravoevents-online.com/

• There is a continuation of doing smaller, less complicated weddings and intimate receptions — and throwing a big, over-the-top after party where everyone on the couple’s radar can attend.
• For guys, the tuxes are a tad more fashion forward than traditional, especially for some millennials .  Think of actor Timothee Chalamet’s sense of fresh and fashion forward looks on the red carpet.  In addition, the black or blue tuxedo may still be worn by the couple, but the styles are created differently based on the individual’s personal style and taste. The exact matching attire is passe.
• More and more couples are selecting vendors who support the local LGBTQ community and business owners who support the right to marry.  It’s no longer just selecting the equipment rental company who has tables and chairs, but finding those vendors who truly support the couple’s values and not just interested in making a dollar because they provide wedding supplies. Lastly, the hyphenated last name is waning, whereas couples prefer to keep their last name as part of their own identity.

Laura Petrocelli

https://www.coutureconceptsny.com/

• Unexpected color palettes: We love seeing color palettes evolve over the years, and see our couples more and more likely to choose something fun and unexpected instead of “coloring within the lines” so to speak. Pairing a dusty blue with pops of orange hues happens to be one of my personal favorites as of lately- it’s absolutely stunning and makes such an incredible statement.
• Unique Ceremonies: Think outside the Church-(Unless your religion is a factor, of course!) Finding the most outside-of-the-box locations that haven’t been done a million times can be challenging in certain areas, but are almost always worth it in every way. Saying your vows at the top of a mountain, in the middle of an enchanted forest, a big beautiful library, or on a secluded beach will not only be special for the couple, but your guests will find it refreshing and like they’ve been invited to an exclusive event that they have never seen before. Aside from the venue itself, come up with ways you can tie the knot with a personal twist on it… one of our favorites was when one of our Brides’ daughter also got a ring during their vows, and the other Bride vowed to the little girl to be another Mother figure in her life, and to always be there for her. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight! We had waited way too long for LGBTQ weddings to become legal, so naturally we want to ensure they are filled with extra special touches and love, and each one is unique and fabulous in every way.
• Vellum- Vellum has made quite the comeback, and is being used in lots of different & creative ways, including escort cards, custom signage, menus, and of course invitations, which is where we’ve mostly seen it in the past. The end result is super chic, clean and romantic!

Tara Baker

dancingwithher.com

• We’re seeing more couples doing things their own way come through. A lot of couples are throwing traditions out the window and doing their wedding in a way that’s authentic to them and their relationship.
• Another trend, small and meaningful weddings. We’re seeing a whole lot more elopements and micro weddings with less than 30 guests. These weddings tend to be spread across a weekend [and in some cases a long weekend], where guests are invited to stay and celebrate for a few days with the couple to celebrate their love. We love weekends that involved good food and activities in nature the best, think kayaking and hiking. These wedding weekends also tend to have everyone involved in some capacity when it comes to putting together the wedding day, be it the florals or the food.
• The last trend we’re seeing for LGBTQ+ weddings in 2019 is weddings with a whole pop of color! The Pantone color might be living coral, but we’re seeing a whole range of pinks and reds, with silver, dominating color palettes. It’s really the year for creative flair when it comes to weddings.

Joe Rogers

https://contagiousevents.net/

• In general, I think a really cool shift we’re seeing is that same sex weddings are starting to look more like most people would consider a traditional wedding. When same sex marriage first became legal here, many of our couples didn’t grow up imagining their wedding, simply because they never thought it would be possible. But now, we’re seeing couples who did spend time imagining their wedding day, and as a result, we’re seeing more traditional elements come into play: the ladies are going more bridal with their attire, and the men are even doing matching, custom suits. Their wedding day is also starting to look more traditional, with a ceremony, cocktail hour and reception to follow, vs. the cocktail party style weddings we were seeing in the past. This also means that we’re seeing an increase in same sex couples who are working with traditional wedding vendors, including planners, and they’re very conscience of who they’re working with. Same sex couples want to make sure they are supporting small businesses that support and celebrate diversity.
• Another big trend is that the wedding industry is starting to acknowledge, and cater to, the same sex wedding market. We’re seeing more and more designers creating gender neutral clothing and suits, menswear that may be a little more flamboyant and flashy. Also seeing wedding cards that acknowledge same sex couples. And, same sex weddings are starting to pop up in mainstream wedding media outlets: instead of media specifically for same sex weddings, you can now pick up almost any wedding magazine and find gay couples mixed in with straight couples.
• The third trend is travel! More and more same sex couples are starting to feel more comfortable about celebrating their love abroad as it becomes legal across the world. So destination weddings, and honeymoon options, are growing.

Luba Mitnik-Gankin

https://www.primaveradreams.com/

I have weddings where LGBT community is present as members of the wedding party, which is shown in their attire. Among the vendors I am working with are many who belong to this community. Because of that I would say that the top three trends to me are:

• Wide acceptance by everyone involved: family, friends, vendors, venues etc;
• Less fuss as a result – the weddings are pretty much the same as other weddings
• As always – ultimate understanding of beauty, refined taste – the weddings tend to be a bit more sophisticated as compared to an average wedding, which is reflected in the couple’s attire, decor, design, the cake and the food.

Marsha Golob

https://www.mymagicalmemories.com/

I would say that the top three trends we are seeing are:

• Classic, but edgy color palettes
• Going back to one statement wedding cake.
• Meaningful-Creative vows and minimalism

Libby Tao Kelson-Fulcher

https://www.weddingsalaheart.com/

So I’m happy to chime in here.  With Weddings A La Heart, I specialize in LGBTQ weddings as well as Jewish weddings. In fact, I have officiated and planned same-sex unions since the early 90’s before they were given legal status. So happy and so right that they now are!

• Simplicity. Couples are dressing nicely but casually, comfortably. One very sweet bridal couple, a total matched set, both with very slender bodies in khakis and thin white long-sleeved shirts. They only wanted leis to exchange and matched bouquets.
• Marrying more mature couples who have been together for a lot of years.
• More elopements. Seem to be really in fashion now. True that mine are mostly destination weddings here in Hawaii but in the past there were more guests on the trip.

Aimee Palifroni

https://prismaeventsllc.com/

• It’s an experience. Our LGBTQ couples want their guests to be able to celebrate with them through the entire weekend making it more of an experience instead of just the wedding night. They are planning river rafting, sunrise yoga, distillery tours, and even family vs. family softball games! It’s their way of saying “thank you” to those who have stood by them and making sure everyone feels welcome and included.
• We see a lot of our couples opting for less-traditional meal styles and going for immersive stations with different cuisines. The traditional buffet or plated meal is out. They want guests to continue the feel of truly being all together so designing stations around the room featuring different culinary treats – usually celebrating their individual heritages – gives guests the opportunity to mix and mingle, walk around, and dine at their own pace.
• Signature cocktails are all the rage. Our couples let their creativity shine through specialty cocktails curated especially for them. From clever names to designer delivery, guests love a good twist on an old favorite. One of our bar services went as far as to dye bottles of vodka black and created a stunning Tequila Sunrise with the black vodka floating on top, which we named the “Black Heart” for a Dia de Los Muertos themed wedding. It was s huge hit and you could hear guests asking, “where did you get that?!” and rushing to the bar to try it. Anything you can personalize will leave a lasting memory your guests will love.

Christy Matthews

The Big Wedding Planning Podcast

• Stand Out Suiting – for men and women, jewel toned tuxedos, embroidery, harnesses, patterned suits, white dinner jackets…to name a few. Fit is everything.
• Toasts during the ceremony. The officiant, the couple, and their guests all raise a glass together during the ceremony to symbolize the inclusion of the couple’s village and to celebrate the occasion together, in style. (We love a champagne tray-passed down the aisle about a quarter of the way into the ceremony.)
• Mixed Up Wedding Party – or no wedding party at all.  We seldom see two even sides of men and women lined up with the couple at the altar. This is becoming more typical for straight weddings as well.

Bronte Price

https://gaycelebrant.melbourne/

• They’re smaller and much more intimate than typical straight weddings. LGBTQI couples are highly selective about who they invite to their weddings. Sometimes, there are no blood family members invited. Usually, the total number of guests is fewer than 40.
• LGBTQI couples are generally shunning the rituals and associated costs that usually accompany weddings – for example, no aisles, no wedding cake, few (if any) flowers, no hiring of limousines and luxury cars, no first dance.
• They’re more emotional. In fact, the emotions are off the scale, reflecting the hurt and struggles that the couples have been through to get to this point and just soaking up the moment when two LGBTQI people can get married.

Pam Donaldson

https://www.planningcelebrations.com/

• My LGBTQ clients pull away from the many of the typical traditions with a wedding. They are really more in it for the celebration of starting a new life together as a couple with all their friends and family. It tends to be more of a grand party than hitting all the “tradition” wedding events (bouquet toss, etc)
• They are typically a little older (not meaning old, but not 20) and they have a little more expendable cash, so the weddings tend to be more “upscale”. We can bring in bands, specialty vendors (cigar rollers, food trucks, special cocktail bars, etc.)
• Not that this is a trend, but they are some of the most gracious, loving clients I have ever worked with in my 14 years of business. Everyone just seems to embrace the love and joy of the event rather than getting so hung up in the details of all the small things of the day, that in the end, don’t really matter anyway!

Diana Dorsey

www.booksimplyelegant.com

One of the things that I enjoy a lot about being a wedding planner is seeing trends come and go, and here is what I am see happening in the LGTBQ community for 2019.

• We are going big! Now that same-sex marriage is legal in a lot of states, couples are going all out! From an increase in the budget, guests counts to over the top venues and décor!
• We are going from intimate small weddings to grand!
• Another great thing that is changing within the wedding industry is the importance of being sensitive, flexible and providing equality to same-sex couples. Meaning we as professional wedding pros are offering couples more options that cater to their beliefs and expectations, this includes wedding attire and formalities that take place during the wedding day!

Lynn Jackson

https://www.fitandfabweddings.com/

• LGBTQ couples are moving away from traditions like the “First Look” and getting ready separately. Many are opting for a small or no wedding party and don’t care about the sex of bridesmaids/groomsmen. And they often enter the ceremony at the same time and walk down the aisle together.
• LGBTQ couples are bringing elements of the LGBTQ culture into their celebration. This may occur in the form of entertainment such as singers, dancers, performances by drag queens, and music by gay icons.
• Another trend is to prolong the celebration with an extended after party where the dancing and fun continues for hours after the reception.

June Dillinger

https://idohawaiianweddings.com/

The top 3 trends for Same Sex couples, especially when choosing a destination wedding in Hawaii.

• A beach where they can fairly well be sure it feels like it’s all their own. If anyone is around usually it is a fisherman but the semi-private vibe is very important.
• The reason it needs to be like this is that often couples want to feel comfortable when the pronouncement moment comes for kissing their true love. Public display of affection is still often a private experience for many and having a location that is relatively secluded allows for a couple to feel relaxed and in-the-moment, just like they always dreamed of. And
• Having a team of experts that care deeply about their work and it shows; in all they do from communication to the day of events. LGBTQ friendly is a requirement. It’s about respect and every team member must be on board.

Chanda Daniels

https://www.amoniqueaffair.com/

• Leaving the wedding party behind! Couples have decided to forgo having a wedding party and let their friends and family enjoy the experience of being a guest at their wedding.
• Intimate Weddings! The average guest count is now 75, couples are really curating their guests list to create more intimate experiences.
• Colorful Color Stories! Couples are incorporating their personalities in their wedding color stories, we are seeing less neutrals and more colorful and dramatic palettes.

Jeannine Ulmer

https://bellemarieeweddings.com/

Being in business for 20+ years, I’ve seen some incredible changes in the LGBTQ community and their weddings.

• There are a few that I’ve noticed but the biggest change seems to be an increase for this year in that younger people are now getting married.  I have a greater number of 20 and 30 year old clients getting married this year.  Traditionally, my same sex wedding couples were older, in their 40’s and 50’s now I’m happy to see that more and more younger couples are getting married.
• Another trend that I’m seeing is that LGBTQ couples are having more and more “traditional” weddings and not just “city hall” weddings.  More and more venues are slowly embracing the LGBTQ community and opening their doors which leads more couples to have bigger weddings than in the past.  I’m also seeing that they tend to have more attendants in their wedding parties than in the past. I’ve also noticed that my straight wedding couples are taking cues from my same sex couples in that they are now mixing their attendants so that it’s not all women on one side and men on the other.
• Another thing that I have noticed, is that as more and more parents and families are accepting them, they are stepping up and becoming more involved in their weddings. It’s such a great joy to see the look on my clients’ faces when their parents are there and supporting them, they literally glow.  I think that has to be the most beautiful trend of all.

Kristen Tsiatsios

Jubilee Event Engineers

• LGBTQ couples continue to personalize and make their wedding representative of who they are in the world. They bring forward their passions, style, values and politics in a unique weave that says US.  I see them spending money on the aspects of the day that holds value for them rather than riding the wave of I must do this because it’s what everyone else is doing, selecting details that might buck current trends to bring their uniqueness forward. This might not always be obvious: maybe it’s a reading in the ceremony from Justice Kennedy’s opinion in the landmark case making marriage a right for all US citizens or tucking a sprig of wheat into the boutonniere’s to honor the ancestral lands of one of the spouses or hosting the day in the gardens where they work the land.
• Playing Big and Connecting seems to be on trend right now. Whether that means hosting their wedding in another country and having their nearest and dearest make the trip across the globe to celebrate with them or having a three day getaway weekend for family and friends. Carving lots of time to connect with loved one seems to be important.
• Lastly, style. All of my LGBTQ clients come forward with undeniable style. Whether it’s urban chic or hipster chill or Francophile foodies. It’s undeniable and we work to bring this style forward into a day that is uniquely them.

Carolee Higashino

https://www.whiteorchidwedding.com/

• We are seeing most couples spending their celebrations with a series of events for the week of their celebrations with active inclusions such as;  Hikes, pub crawls, surfing/taco beach parties, catamaran adventures, welcome receptions at unique island venues, post wedding day brunch with zip lining to name a few.

Jen Siomacco

https://www.catalystwedco.com/

• Gender Neutral Wedding Wear: Wedding attire that does not fit into the white dress/suit categories has been gaining lots of popularity with our readers as many members in the LGBTQ+ community do not necessarily want to wear a dress if they are female-identified or wear a suit if they are male-identified, and these more traditional options are especially difficult for gender non-conforming individuals. Gender neutral options provide more flexibility for all style choices and gender expressions and give couples a chance to really be comfortable and themselves on their wedding day.
• Handfasting and Self-Uniting Quaker Ceremonies: We’ve seen more and more couples choosing to ditch a religious ceremony and opt for ceremony approaches that place a focus on the couple and their individual values. Handfasting is a tradition that has long been used in Neo-Pagan circles, but we’re seeing increased popularity of handfasting with secular couples, as well. Self-Unitied Quaker ceremonies allow couples to marry themselves in the eyes of their family and friends, and don’t require them to have an officiant present, though it’s important to note these ceremonies are only available in select US states currently.
• Ditching Gendered Roles, Terms, and Traditions: We’re also seeing more and more couples opting to leave behind gendered terms like, bride, groom, bridesmaid, and groomsman, and instead use terms like partner, spouse, and wedding party that are gender neutral. Similarly, gendered traditions like having the bride walk down the aisle or doing a garter or bouquet toss are also decreasing in popularity, as more couples want to make their weddings a more inclusive place for guests of all gender identities.

 

Thank you for visiting Victoria Park’s Wedding Venue blog! Victoria Park is a luxury wedding venue in Brisbane Australia. We share new blogs and inspiration each month; so be sure to check back for regular updates. You can also browse our five stunning wedding venues online.

The 2019 Victoria Park Trainee Pro Am was a successful day on the course, with the trainees competing for the title across a 36 hole event. Charles Wright posted an incredible 13-under par across the 36 holes to take out the top prize, with Victoria Park’s own Cooper Eccleston coming in a close second at 11-under par. Although rain clouds threatened the field for most of the tournament, scores held strong with 12 trainees posting scores under par. Scores were also good in the amateur division, with Troy Newman taking out the win on 42 points.

After the main event, the trainees battled it out in a nearest the pin chipping contest from the Garden Marquee deck to the 10^th green. The ladies came out on top with Bridgette Reedy taking out the top prize, and Asha Hergreaves coming in a close second.

A big thank you to our sponsors for their support, which is very appreciated and makes events like these possible.

Ascot Plumbing
Bank of Queensland
River City Displays
Tony Hollands Funerals
Brisbane City Council

Thank you to everyone who played in the 2019 Victoria Park Trainee Pro Am and we look forward to seeing you all back again in 2020!

See the full list of amateur winners & trainee winners

The Victoria Park wedding team hear proposal stories every week from lovely engaged couples searching for their dream wedding venue. This blog is a list of our favourite steps taken on the proposal journey. Do you have a favourite? Contact us at [email protected] to share yours today!

 

Choose The Perfect Ring

Finding the engagement ring that best represents your partner, and the love you share is the focal point of your proposal, so it’s important to get a head start on ring shopping. Follow the four C’s, cut, clarity, carat, and color, when looking for options. Talking to an experienced jeweler can also help if you are lost for inspiration. They can pull options based on your desired style, and help to narrow down your choices. Create a budget ahead of time and make this known to your jeweler to help them gear your options to a more affordable price range. This will also affect the size of the stone and the material of the ring so keep this in mind when setting your price range. Check out these other tips to help you when you hit the shops to find that perfect engagement ring.

 

Ask A Best Friend

Having your friends involved creates a more personalized proposal that has added touches from those you both care about most. Gather both your friends and hers to brainstorm some ideas, and maybe find a way to incorporate them into the special day and have them be in the proposal! If your significant other is a family and friends oriented kind of person, having their favorite people sharing in the excitement will make it the perfect proposal. Plan to meet and gather everyone well in advance to make sure everyone has time to prepare and plan for the big day. Coordinate a way to meet before the proposal as well, to make sure the day runs smoothly and everyone is on the same page, and included. Then have a little party post proposal to celebrate together!

 

Rehearse The Right Words

Knowing what you’re going to say before getting down on one knee to propose can help to avoid stage fright or proposal paralysis. Writing from the heart can be a difficult task. Add on the pressure of asking your significant other to spend the rest of your lives together, it can give you some serious writers block. Start with an outline that includes special memories, how you feel about your partner, and the emotions you feel about entering this new exciting chapter together (Check out these other helpful prompts). Add in why you love them, and why they’re your person, then once your ideas are all on the page, connect them into a monologue perfect for your proposal. Be sure to rehearse ahead of time, and also keep it to a reasonable length. The excitement of the moment may rush things, so having a concise speech will ensure you get to share everything before popping the big question and awaiting their answer.

 

Receive Parents Blessing

This may be the more traditional route, but is another way you can incorporate your loved ones in the proposal. Asking for your fiance-to-be’s hand in marriage is an important step that can be a bit intimidating. This is where the perfect timing comes in. Asking at a busy moment or a family gathering might not be the right time. Instead reach out and plan a date to get together and talk about your proposal plans. This is also a great time to ask them about an heirloom ring they may have planned for your partners proposal, or if not, to walk through some ring ideas with them. Take them through an intuitive online jeweler site to find the engagement ring that stands out the most to all parties. This makes the ring a little more special by having your partner’s parents opinion on the ring they will adorn for years to come.

 

Find A Charming Place

Picking the backdrop for your proposal takes time and some planning, especially if it’s a destination proposal. Use sites like Tripadvisor to help you find your perfect proposal hotspot, or popular tourist area. Or, look for more intimate and low-key setting to make it more personal to you, and less of a spectacle in front of your fellow tourists. Get locals advice and also plan a post proposal dinner for some local cuisine to celebrate. Even if you’re staying closer to home, it still helps to do some research to find the right place as well, or pick a spot you have shared some of your favorite memorable times together. Make sure to contact any vendors necessary ahead of time to make sure everything is prepared and ready for the big question.

 

Capture The Moment

Having a professional photographer present makes it easy to capture the moment and have something to remember the day by, especially because it can be a blur from all of the excitement. Make sure to meet and go over your budget with your photographer, and also decide on the style of the shoot. Give them time as well to look over the setting of the proposal to find the right spot to set up for the perfect picture. Have them do a photoshoot after as well, and maybe use these as your save the date invitations, or reception decorations. See if your photographer also does prints, and create a photo wall in your new home together to remember this special milestone in your relationship together.

A holiday work party is a great opportunity for co-workers to get together, share a good time and even build better relationships that can translate to a more productive and efficient office. These 5 effortless ideas will put you on track to throwing the perfect Christmas work party!

Looking for a Brisbane Christmas party venue? View Victoria Park’s latest Christmas Party packages online today!

[button class=”button” href=”https://victoriapark.com.au/christmas-party-venues-brisbane-north/”]VIEW CHRISTMAS PARTY PACKAGES[/button]

 

#1: Get the team together

The purpose behind this party is to get your employees together and give them a fun celebration, right? It’s fantastic to involve everyone in the planning process. Get input from all the committees and departments at work. Hold a group vote or send out a survey asking what food, games and themes people prefer or would like to see! This makes everyone feel like their opinion matters. Plus, employees will enjoy seeing their ideas come alive at the Christmas party.

#2: Holiday drinks and eats

The food is one of the most important parts of the party! Guests typically look forward to yummy dishes, sweet treats and snazzy drinks. Food options are endless. You can choose to have fancy served plates or have more appetizers and snacks.  A holiday work party is a merry time for coworkers to share a couple drinks together. Make the cocktail selection relate to the holidays. Think about serving hot cranberry sangria, candy cane cocktails or eggnog martinis.

#3: Surprise around every corner

Keep guests on their toes and having fun with mini surprises planned throughout the night. Consider having random raffles during the party to show appreciation for the hard work employees put in throughout the year. If you choose to have raffles, think about having small contests at work where employees can earn raffle tickets the month leading up to the party. These contests can be work-related, such as highest sales. Another contest to earn raffle tickets could be donation related (after all, this is the season of giving). Encourage employees to earn tickets by bringing in canned food and items that can be donated to a local shelter or food kitchen. It’s a win-win for everyone!

#4: Themes galore

A Christmas work party isn’t complete without some sort of theme. Center the party theme on a holiday movie, such as A Christmas Story. Serve foods and drinks that are seen in the Christmas movie you select. Try a Christmas Around the World theme – serve international dishes with popular holiday foods from different countries. This could include yule log cake from France, cured ham from Spain, cosquito (an alcoholic egg nog drink) from Puerto Rico or mango and sticky rice from Thailand – the list goes on! Another festive theme is a White Christmas. Opt for pure white decor, plates, linens and even white Christmas trees. Consider having guests wear all-white to match the theme.

#5: It’s all fun & games

Bring on the games! They don’t have to be cheesy, and you don’t have to force employees to play if they don’t want to. Games can be a fun way for coworkers to bond. Choose to have group games or random activities throughout the night for guests to get involved and get competitive. A Christmas-themed charades will surely get people chatting and laughing. A holiday movie trivia game will test your guests knowledge of seasonal films. Another activity is to build gingerbread houses, you can even make it a gingerbread house competition between teams to get everyone involved and excited.  Which department or committee can build the best gingerbread house?

Guests will enjoy your work party with these fun ideas and tips. They’ll have a memorable night competing against their coworkers as they play Christmas games and enjoy tasty eats and festive drinks. This holiday work party is the perfect way to end the year AND thank your employees for all they do.

Thanks for reading Victoria Park’s Functions Blog. Visit our christmas party venues page for more information.

The Victoria Park team were delighted to celebrate the wedding of Bree and Locky recently in the Garden Marquee (ceremony), Orchard (pre-reception guest drinks) and Ballroom (reception). Read Bree and Locky’s beautiful story  below!

What was the proposal like?

Locky and I were on a skiing holiday in Hakuba, Japan. Early one morning we were taking a gondola to the top of the mountain for another day of skiing when Locky surprised me by playing our song, getting down on one knee and pulling the ring out of his snowboarding jacket! He’s a tall guy so getting down on one knee in such a confined space was no mean feat. We spent most of the morning at the top of the mountain calling our family and friends back in Australia. It was perfect.

What was your favourite part of your wedding?

It’s hard to pinpoint one moment, but just having all of our loved ones in the one room was so special. Walking into our reception as Mr and Mrs Smith was an incredible feeling!

Why would you recommend Victoria Park to other people getting married?

Victoria Park was the perfect venue for us as we could have everything at one location, yet there were different spaces to separate out the different events of the day. We had an allocated planner who was with us every step of the way and ensured that every little detail was covered.

Tell us the most memorable feedback you received from your guests on the night?

A lot of our guests have commented on just how much happiness was in the room, everyone was having such a great time and you could really feel the love in the air! Oh, and the food – so much feedback on how delicious the food was!!

What was the location of your ceremony and reception?

Our ceremony was in the Garden Marquee and our reception in the Ballroom. While we were out having our photos taken on the golf course, our guests enjoyed drinks at the Orchard.

A big thank you to Bree and Locky for sharing their wonderful story, and most special day, with the Victoria Park team.

The Schweppes City of Brisbane Pro Am at Victoria Park attracted a strong field this year with amateurs and professionals from across South East Queensland and beyond all competing for one of the fantastic prizes provided by our generous sponsors. Conditions were at their best for Victoria Park with the greens rolling smooth and a picture perfect day.

Golf professionals Anthony Quayle, Daniel McGraw, Steven Jeffress and Peter Shaw found themselves at the top in a 4-way tie for this year’s Schweppes City of Brisbane Pro Am after all firing an impressive 8-under par at Victoria Park on Tuesday 12 September.

The morning field saw some tough competition for placings with 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th winners all scoring 37 points, but Cooper Barry was the clear front runner and overall winner in the morning field with 41 points, winning a Taylormade Driver, Dozen Titleist Pro V1s and Titleist Towel.

With the wind picking up for the afternoon field it was expected that scores may increase, but that couldn’t be further from the truth with Jason Michelmore taking the amateur field with an outstanding 44 points. Not far behind was Ron Williams 2^nd with 42 points, Muktar Basha 3^rd with 41 points, Adam Page 4^th with 41 points and David Tan 5^th 38 points.

View the full results: Morning   |   Afternoon

As always, there were plenty of on-course offerings provided by our sponsors including Mr & Mrs G Riverbar with their famous duck pies, Schweppes refresh stations and Victoria Park’s market cart stall with fresh fruit, lolly buffet, Maleny Dairies ice cream and dutch pancakes.

The fun didn’t stop there though…

This year the Asahi Longest Drive Competition took place from the Ballroom Deck with some Long Drive World Champions keeping the crowd entertained, with Brendan Moylan smashing it 354m, while the golf professionals warmed up to see who could #swingforthecity best. Jacob Boyce came out on top after a tie breaker with a 334m drive, picking up a tidy sum for his efforts.

A special thank you to the sponsors of the 2017 Schweppes City of Brisbane Pro Am. Without their support, events like this cannot happen and their continued support to help drive the growth of professional golf is sincerely appreciated.

Major Sponsor
Schweppes Australia

Silver Sponsors
Bank of Queensland
NuTurf

Supporting Sponsors
Asahi
Quality Food Services
Queensland Reef and Beef
Di Bella Coffee
Mr & Mrs G Riverbar
Cellarbrations
Golf Cars International
Brisbane City Council
Carlton United Brewing

Engagement party themes for every girl

The engagement party is the “appetizer” to your wedding day. It’s the preview to the most special and anticipated day of your life! You want the best engagement party venue that is as equally astonishing and gorgeous as your wedding. The location and unique touches are what stand out to guests. Consider some of these engagement party venue themes to add extra sparkle to your Brisbane north celebration. These ideas are sure to inspire and excite you!

Are you a girly-girl?

If your friends joke about you being a diva or a lover of pink, then a “Glamour Party” theme is perfect for you! Decorate the event space in shades of pink, white and silver. The atmosphere is classic and glitzy as the Brisbane lighting makes your décor shimmer. Another idea is to place diamonds and jewels around centerpieces and elegant bows around chairs.

More of an outdoorsy gal?

If our first engagement party venue theme is the opposite of your personality then you might like these ideas better! Create cozy ambiance with a “Backyard Bonfire” theme. Let family and friends feel warm with love as they enjoy your Brisbane north location. Impress guests with your creativity by having a s’mores bar or hot cocoa station. Your engagement party is sure to be unique with toasted marshmallows, melty chocolate and tons of toppings for the hot cocoa bar.

Maybe you’re super bold and fun-loving?

This unique engagement party venue idea is top notch. Have a “Famous Couples Costume Party.” This gives an exciting twist on the traditional engagement celebration. Guests will dress up as their favorite famous couples. You probably never would have imagined Barbie and Ken or David and Victoria Beckam would attend your engagement party!

Is simplicity your middle name?

Think about hosting a “Mimosa Brunch” to celebrate your engagement. What’s better than bubbly and quiche. Or have small plates of cheesy egg scrambles, bacon, macarons, and more so that guests can mingle as they sample their favorite brunch bites. This is a fresh spin on the typical engagement party venue theme. Decorate with crisp cut florals to add to the energetic atmosphere.

There’s no limit to the creativity for your special engagement celebration. Make it as entertaining and enjoyable as possible with one of these fantastic ideas. You don’t have to take this event as seriously as your wedding day. Just have fun with it!

Click here to view engagement party venue packages or call 07 3252 0666 for more information and a tailored quotation.