RIPPON LEA ESTATE AND GARDENS
ELSTERNWICK, MELBOURNE
Say "I Do" at Melbourne's Most Enchanting Luxury Wedding Venue: 1930s Hollywood Glamour Meets Timeless Italian Elegance at Rippon Lea House and Garden.
Ideal Venue For: our exclusive wedding bestie service - feel reassured with additional support through your planning, plus an extra set of expert eyes on your wedding details.
Enhanced Support: enhance your experience with our wedding coordination service - enjoy hands on assistance for a seamless, stress-free day!
Step into a world of romance and elegance at Rippon Lea House and Garden, one of Melbourne's most iconic wedding venues. Embrace the charm of the 1930s Hollywood era with sweeping garden backdrops and a touch of timeless Italian sophistication. Just 20 minutes from the CBD, this enchanting estate features lush lawns, majestic trees, and the largest fernery in the Southern Hemisphere—creating a breathtaking setting for your special day.
Image the possibilities and say “I do” surrounded by picturesque gardens, then celebrate exclusively in the magnificent ballroom that opens onto a stunning pool terrace. With its iconic architecture and glamorous history, Rippon Lea is more than a venue; it’s a magical escape that promises unforgettable memories for you and your guests. If you’re dreaming of a storybook wedding, let Rippon Lea be the backdrop for your fairy tale.
Did you know? Hugh Jackmon held his wedding reception at Rippon Lea Estate in April 1996.
Location: Elsternwick, Melbourne
Seated Capacity: 40 - 170 guests (up to 170 with the stunning outdoor, undercover poolside dancefloor—it's truly breathtaking!)
Cocktail Style Capacity: 250 guests
Style: Historic wedding venue, garden wedding venue, italian romance wedding venue, timeless beauty wedding venue, european-inspired wedding destination
Catering: External and internal catering available.
Why You'll Fall in Love with Hosting Your Wedding at Rippon Lea Estate:
Rippon Lea Estate isn’t just a stunning venue—it’s a place where unforgettable wedding memories are made. Here’s why couples love it:
Customisable and Flexible Packages: Choose from Melbourne's best all-inclusive packages or customise your celebration to reflect your personal style and budget.
Secluded Yet Convenient Location with Exclusive Use of Grounds: Escape to a private, intimate setting with full access to Rippon Lea’s stunning gardens and grounds. It feels like a destination wedding, offering breathtaking views and tranquility, all while being just minutes from Melbourne’s vibrant city life. Celebrate with your loved ones in complete privacy, creating unforgettable memories in a serene, exclusive environment.
Endless Photo Opportunities: Whether you’re by the serene lake, wandering the lush gardens, or framed against the stunning mansion, Rippon Lea offers endless breathtaking spots for your wedding photos.
Private VIP Suite: Escape the excitement and relax in your own luxurious private suite—perfect for unwinding and preparing for the celebration ahead.
Indoor and Outdoor Flexibility: Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a shaded terrace reception, or need the grand ballroom for weather contingencies, Rippon Lea offers versatile spaces to make your day exactly as you envisioned. Move the party outdoors! Dance under festoon lights on the poolside terrace, making your reception unforgettable with the perfect starry setting.
Covered Pool Terrace: Dance and celebrate under the stars with fairy lights and festoon lighting on the terrace, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for drinks, dancing, and unforgettable moments.
Picture-Perfect Photo Opportunities: From the serene lake and lush fernery to the ornamental pool and beautifully manicured gardens, every corner of Rippon Lea offers a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos.
Romantic and Unique Details: Rippon Lea’s 18th-century mansion exudes romance, ensuring a wedding day that’s uniquely yours and unforgettable in every way. With original lighting features, hardwood floors, inbuilt bar, and a stage, this venue radiates charm and timeless elegance, making your wedding day as special as your love story.
In-House or External Catering: Treat your guests to delicious seasonal menus with options for culturally inspired dishes, or bring in your own approved caterer to make your celebration extra special.
Dedicated On-Site Team: You’ll have a professional team making sure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day, so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
A Venue Where Fun Meets Elegance: Celebrate in style and create memories that will last a lifetime, with a lively, fun atmosphere that continues long after the night is over.
Onsite Parking & Nearby Accommodation: With free onsite parking for guests and accommodation options nearby, your wedding day will be smooth and convenient for everyone.
Vibrant Local Dining: Explore Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene just a short drive away, with plenty of options for pre- and post-wedding celebrations.
Perfect for Any Style: Whether you envision a grand seated dinner or an intimate cocktail reception, Rippon Lea Estate’s versatility makes it the perfect canvas for your dream wedding.
Your Dream Wedding in Almost 14 Acres of Breathtaking Gardens
Imagine your wedding set in almost 14 acres of breathtaking gardens, where you'll enjoy exclusive access from 5:00 PM. Rippon Lea Estate features a tranquil lake, vibrant flower gardens, a historic orchard, and a stunning fernery, all surrounding a magnificent mansion completed in 1868.
Just 20 minutes from Melbourne's CBD, this iconic venue offers the perfect blend of convenience and seclusion, transporting your guests to a private oasis while keeping them close to the city's amenities. With limited onsite parking, your special day can unfold effortlessly, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love without the stress of extensive planning. Experience the magic of Rippon Lea Estate for your dream wedding!
A Historical Romance at Rippon Lea Estate
For couples who appreciate history, Rippon Lea Estate is a breathtaking Victorian-era gem that provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Designed in the 1860s by the esteemed architect Joseph Reed, this stunning estate was originally built for successful businessman Frederick Sargood. Spanning 14 acres, it boasts beautifully landscaped gardens filled with a diverse array of flora, including the largest fernery in the Southern Hemisphere.
The estate’s grand mansion showcases intricate architecture and elegant interiors that reflect the opulence of its era. Since being entrusted to the National Trust of Australia in 1970, Rippon Lea has been preserved as a historical treasure.
Today, this enchanting venue invites brides and grooms to create unforgettable memories amid its rich history and breathtaking beauty. Choose Rippon Lea Estate for your wedding and immerse yourselves in a storybook setting that your guests will cherish forever!
A Couples Wedding Photography Dream
Rippon Lea Estate is a photographer's paradise, offering countless stunning backdrops just a short walk apart. From the majestic historic mansion to enchanting gardens, the iconic poolside with elegant aisle pillars, and the tranquil lakeside, each location is ideal for your wedding photos. Don’t miss the captivating fernery, where untamed beauty adds an enchanting touch to your memories. Create your perfect wedding album in this breathtaking setting!
Discover Endless Ceremony Options in the Gardens
For couples who appreciate history, Rippon Lea Estate is a breathtaking Victorian-era gem that provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Designed in the 1860s by the esteemed architect Joseph Reed, this stunning estate was originally built for successful businessman Frederick Sargood. Spanning 14 acres, it boasts beautifully landscaped gardens filled with a diverse array of flora, including the largest fernery in the Southern Hemisphere.
The estate’s grand mansion showcases intricate architecture and elegant interiors that reflect the opulence of its era. Since being entrusted to the National Trust of Australia in 1970, Rippon Lea has been preserved as a historical treasure.
Today, this enchanting venue invites brides and grooms to create unforgettable memories amid its rich history and breathtaking beauty. Choose Rippon Lea Estate for your wedding and immerse yourselves in a storybook setting that your guests will cherish forever!
Iconic Wedding Reception Options
Celebrate your love under the stars at Rippon Lea Estate, where you’ll find a variety of iconic reception spaces.
The Ballroom: Ideal for intimate weddings, this elegant space accommodates up to 170 guests, featuring original lighting and hardwood floors that create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Pool Terrace: One of Melbourne's most photographed locations, it’s perfect for daytime receptions or evening pre-dinner drinks. For lunch, guests can dine around the clear water and picturesque fountain, evoking hints of Italy. This charming area seats up to 64 guests on the lower terrace and 30 on the upper terrace, surrounded by beautiful gardens and festoon lights.
The Grounds – Marquee Settings: If you’re dreaming of a grand celebration under the stars, consider a larger marquee reception on the historic grounds for an unforgettable experience.
No matter your choice, each setting promises a magical ambiance for your special day!
A Culinary Experience by Showtime Event Group
When it comes to weddings at Rippon Lea Estate, the sensational cuisine by Showtime Event Group is a highlight you won’t want to miss. This award-winning team is the exclusive caterer, bringing culinary magic to every celebration.
If you're seeking an unforgettable dining experience paired with a vibrant atmosphere, look no further. Showtime Event Group's menu tastings are the talk of Melbourne, featuring everything from multi-course meals to spectacular entertainment acts and creative cocktails that will delight your guests.
Known for their flexibility and creativity, the dedicated Showtime team works tirelessly behind the scenes and on your wedding day to ensure everything runs smoothly. With their expertise, you can relax and savor every moment of your celebration.
Enhance your experience with our Wedding Bestie service, which collaborates closely with Showtime Event Group to execute your wedding day with precision and care. With this ultimate wedding dream team managing your wedding plans, you can relax and enjoy every moment!
Make your dream wedding a reality at Rippon Lea Estate with the exceptional catering of Showtime Event Group!
External Catering Wedding Venue in Melbourne
Many couples have unique requirements when it comes to their wedding, including preferences for cultural cuisine. That’s why Rippon Lea Estate offers a flexible dry hire option, allowing you to access the venue without the added services of catering, decorations, production, or staffing.
With a dry hire experience, you have the freedom to bring in your own approved caterers to create a personalised dining experience that reflects your tastes and traditions.
To ensure your day runs smoothly, our Wedding Coordination service will collaborate with your chosen caterer, executing every detail with precision and care. Enjoy the best of both worlds—an incredible venue and a customised culinary experience—at Rippon Lea Estate!
Experience Peace of Mind on Your Wedding Day
Experience a stress-free and unforgettable wedding at Rippon Lea Estate, where our long-term relationship with the National Trust and Showtime Event Group ensures a seamless planning process. With the best in the industry working together, your dream wedding will come to life effortlessly.
As your beautiful blank canvas, Rippon Lea Estate provides the perfect backdrop for your celebration. The Behind the Day team will support you throughout the planning stages, helping you piece together your vision while collaborating with Showtime Event Group to bring every detail to fruition.
For added peace of mind, our wedding team can step in as your wedding coordinator, offering an extra set of eyes and ears on your big day. This allows you to relax and fully enjoy every moment, knowing that everything is in expert hands.
Ready to make your Rippon Lea Estate wedding a reality? Contact the Behind the Day team today, and let’s say "I Do" at Melbourne’s most enchanting luxury wedding venue!
A moment for the incredible photographers featured on this page:
charmore creations / mia sara photography / silas chau / my scandi style photography
Make sure you check them out! 🖤
