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Canberra designers are now internationally recognised for their innovation and creativity. Today, brides and grooms can confidently shop right here at home knowing the designs they are choosing are blitzing the catwalks of Paris, London and New York - traditionally recognised as the fashion capitals of the world. Canberra has become one of the most popular wedding locations in Australia due to its style, cosmopolitan charm and especially, due to the variety of services available. As Australia’s capital city, Canberra offers the grandeur of the purposefully styled architecture from the inner city circle to the outer regions. Incorporating the natural beauty of its extensive parks and gardens, surrounding countryside and scenic mountains, Canberra caters for all tastes and styles to ensure your day is exactly the way you want.
If you are planning an outdoor wedding, you may have your own beautiful garden or know someone who is willing to host your wedding. Otherwise Canberra's outstanding network of parks and gardens, particularly in the central basin area, offer a whole range of different options. Popular ones surrounding Lake Burley Griffin include Commonwealth Park, Nara Park in Lennox Gardens, the National Botanical Gardens (where a fee applies) or the National Carillon set on its own island in the middle of the lake. Another popular choice is the Sculpture Gardens which form part of the National Gallery. In the heart of the city is the ever-popular Glebe Park while the Parliamentary triangle has a number of public areas that can be reserved for marriage ceremonies. Canberra's newly refurbished Old Parliament House Rose Garden is becoming increasingly popular. Remember, wherever you have chosen, you will need to advise either the Department of Urban Services or the National Capital Authority in advance to avoid conflicting venue arrangements and arrange for any permits which may be necessary. Both have designated sites which may be booked for weddings. Visit www.tams.act.gov.au or www.nationalcapital.gov.au for information and to obtain a permit application. Alternatively contact the Department of Urban Services on (02) 6207 7132 or National Capital Authority Events on (02) 6272 2919. See our outdoor weddings section for more information.
Access
Canberra Airport is only ten minutes drive from the city centre and has direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. Regular coach links are available from Sydney and other centres and Countrylink provides a regular rail service to Sydney. For more information visit www.canberratourism.com.au Sometimes, if you have a number of guests travelling to your wedding, you may be able to organise travel discounts through either the service provider or your local travel agent.
Climate
Climate and weather conditions are very important considerations when planning your wedding. Canberra’s average daily maximum temperature in summer is around 28°C. The warmer months are popular for weddings so remember to book well in advance. Winter temperatures are cool to cold, with the average daily maximum around 12°C. Winter days are short with dusk arriving very quickly and sunset about 5pm, so if you are considering outdoor wedding photographs, it may be a good idea to have an early wedding.
Rainfall during spring and summer is usually higher, although it does not vary greatly throughout the year. Always ensure an alternative venue and an effective way of contacting guests at short notice has been arranged should the weather be unkind. It is important you and your guests enjoy the day. Consider the comfort of elderly people and young children when planning your day. You may need to consider air-conditioning or heating for both the ceremony and reception. Finally, remember to consider the expected temperature and location of the wedding and choose appropriate styles and fabrics for the bridal party. |