Great cities are recognised by their spectacular examples of artistic architecture. Webb Bridge is an amazing example of what is possible when architects, artists and developers collaborate with long term vision. Spanning 110 metres across the Yarra River, this new bridge creates a ‘snaking’ pedestrian and cycle gateway between the Southbank promenade at Yarra’s Edge and the Docklands. We at Vogue Ballroom love the photographic potential of the recently developed Docklands, and adore the striking architecture and glamorous details that can be found in the soon to be iconic Webb Bridge.

Designed as part of a public art project, to install a new bridge in Melbournes Docklands area, Webb Bridge which was opened in 2002 was a collaborative project between architects Denton Corker Marshall and artist Robert Owen. The brief called for the re-use of the remaining sections of the Webb Dock Rail Bridge, in order to link the Docklands on the north-side to the new residential developments on the south-side. Constructed off-site, the bridge structure was towed into place on barges at high tide, then gently lowered onto its final resting-place as the tide slowly subsided. The bridge comprises two distinct sections: the 145m long existing structure and a new curved 80m long ramped link. Both are joined seamlessly, with an emphasis on volume and containment within the curved and sinuous form.  As you approach the south bank, the hoops regain their intensity and evolve into a cocoon like form. This gradation of pattern was intended to create a life, a moment in time. Which is beautifully similar to the tone captured on your wedding day. From the moment it was established, the existing remnant of Webb Dock Rail Bridge and its new connection to the south bank, became a unified sculptural form. The resulting structure suggests a new connection, or a knot, between the old and new, past and future. Serendipity highly recommend the bridge as a stunning location for wedding day shots, complementing the bride and groom both aesthetically and symbolically.

Webb Bridge is down-to-earth, a project Melbourne can be proud of, built among the superannuated towers of Docklands. It suggests, romantically, the fishing nets, cages, middens and naughty hosiery of the old wharfs. It is biological and ethereal, a stab in the dark and sculptural. As an object, it appears as a delineated structure, a sensuous volume, light and linear. Space is seen as atmospheric, dynamic and transitional. Standing at 6 metres tall, this spectacular lattice hooped sculpture– Webb Bridge– is an interesting, unique-looking bridge actually designed to represent a Koori eel trap.

The sprawling web-like form of the bridge’s sides and roof are reminiscent of the Art Deco period. And suggests the full skirt and elegant lines of the bridal dress, though in this case it’s a dress cast in steel rather than white silk! Whether you enjoy the location during the day– when soft natural light cascades through the open roof. Or at twilight, as the sun sets– casting trails of romantic light and leaving the subtlest rosy glow on the bride. At Serendipity we love capturing the bride and groom as they bask in the intricate splendour of this unique piece of architecture.

Webb Bridge is an aesthetically beautiful and convenient location for a selection of wedding day shots. The connecting point between Southbank Boulevard and the Docklands, the bridge is close by to many other exceptional locations, such as historic wharfs, grand promenades, parklands, to name a few. Just a footstep away from the popular Docklands with its abundant selection of award winning restaurants, stylish bars and gorgeous views. Take in gorgeous panoramic views of the Yarra river as you stroll along the bridge. A short walk into the CBD, where you will find countless reception venues, charming locations and hotels, the Webb Bridge is a viable and exciting location to add to your wedding day repertoire.

At Vogue Ballroom we are enchanted by the possibilities and varied moods of  the Webb Bridge — soft, floaty colours, subtle monochromes all the way to a sharper shade of bright — whether you want lace or steel, trapezoid sky panels or a vast expanse of clouds, the Webb Bridge and its surrounding approaches are some of our top recommendations for contemporary wedding location photography.

Royal Arcade

There are few words which can describe the feeling and olde-style charm captured in the Royal Arcade. Since 1869, the arcade has acted as a hub between Melbourne’s Bourke St Mall, Little Collins Street and Elizabeth Street. Today the Royal Arcade houses some of the most well-known and beautiful shops in Melbourne. At 335 Bourke Street Mall this stunning walkway is Australia’s oldest arcade, a must for wedding day photography. If you plan to be around the Little Collins Street end on the day then Vogue Ballroom highly recommends this location for old world charm, a refined colour palette and true elegance.

In 1868, a competition was held for the design of the arcade and was won by Charles Webb; a 19thcentury architect from Suffolk England, whose other works include the South Melbourne Town Hall and The Winsdor Hotel. Construction of the arcade began in June 1869 and upon completion in May, 1870, was officially opened by Lord Mayor Charles Amess. In 1902 the decision was made to link the arcade to Elizabeth street, an annex was added, allowing for the opening of further business and providing an exciting throughway between Elizabeth street and the arcade. In 2002 the aging Royal Arcade was carefully refurbished. Included in the maintenance was an extensive reworking of the skylight work , allowing for a more consistent inflow of natural light. Making it an ideal passageway for simply gorgeous wedding day shots, where soft natural light, glistening reflections and vibrant tones are hard to avoid. After so many years the Royal Arcade still remains, largely unchanged and beautiful in its Renaissance Revival style. Much can be said in words, but you wont know until you experience it for yourself! The Royal Arcade is a significant Victorian era building and is a part of the Victorian Heritage Register. 

One of the many stunning details of the arcade is Gaunt’s Clock, which is flanked by a grand pair of statues– the mythical figures Gog and Magog. Since the clock was unveiled in 1892, these two giant statues have struck their chimes every hour on the hour. The resounding sound can be heard all throughout the arcade. What a spectacular detail to add a unique flourish to your once in a lifetime day. 

As you and your wedding party stroll along the black and white Edwardian style tiled floor, past luxurious shop fronts, and under the sparkling light from the full length glass ceiling of the arcade the photographs at Serendipity will expertly capture a selection of aesthetically gorgeous shots. In this retreat from the hustle and bustle atmosphere of the city streets, you will almost feel like you’ve stepped back in time, as the arcade simply overflows with timeless elegance. Adding a distinctive and chic style to all photos.