Planning a wedding is no small feat – I know, having worked in the wedding industry for years, and even tying the knot at Vogue Ballroom myself. But what if you’re looking for something different? A brunch wedding could be just the thing that breaks the mould and adds that unique touch to your celebration. Imagine a relaxed, sunny morning where guests sip mimosas, enjoy delicious food, and the stress of evening affairs is nowhere to be seen. Intrigued? Let’s dive into why brunch weddings might be the best decision you’ll ever make.
What Makes Brunch Weddings So Appealing?
I’ll tell you this – when I worked with a couple in Melbourne who chose a brunch wedding, they immediately felt like it was their moment. The morning light, the relaxed vibe, and the fact that they didn’t have to worry about a late-night reception made the entire experience feel more like an extended celebration, not just a few hours of formality. This vibe doesn’t just appeal to couples – guests love it too. A brunch wedding offers a refreshing break from the usual evening extravaganza. Plus, it can be the perfect way to reflect your personalities.
You can focus on creating something that’s distinctly you – no need to follow the script everyone else uses. Whether it’s the informal atmosphere or a playful dress code, brunch weddings allow you to design your big day to be more aligned with your vision, without being boxed into the typical wedding norms.
Pros of Brunch Weddings: Why You Should Consider It
There’s no doubt that brunch weddings come with a set of unique benefits. If you’re on the fence, here are some solid reasons why they’re gaining in popularity.
1. Lower Costs: How a Brunch Wedding Saves You Money
One of the biggest draws for couples considering a brunch wedding is the cost savings. I’ve seen firsthand how much couples can save by choosing a Sunday morning or mid-morning event. Let’s be honest, traditional evening receptions can break the bank. But brunch? It’s a different story.
For starters, venues often charge less for non-Saturday dates – in some cases, up to 28% cheaper. And when you’re thinking about the catering? Brunch menus are more affordable than dinner options. Think about it: breakfast foods are a lot less expensive than filet mignon or a fancy three-course dinner. In fact, one couple I worked with saved a significant portion of their budget just by choosing a brunch menu with items like fresh fruit platters, eggs Benedict, and a decadent donut wall instead of an elaborate dinner spread. Plus, the lower alcohol consumption at a brunch wedding helps cut down on bar costs. With fewer people indulging in cocktails or wine, that’s money back in your pocket.
2. A Fun and Unique Experience for Your Guests
Speaking of that donut wall – now that was a hit. Guests got to pick from an array of delicious flavours, and it added a playful, memorable touch to the morning event. A brunch wedding gives you the chance to create a celebration that feels fresh and exciting – something out of the ordinary. The fact that it’s not the “usual” wedding routine is precisely why people love it. It’s different. It’s unexpected. And, it’s a lot of fun.
The menu options for brunch weddings are endless. You could have an omelet bar, a selection of pastries, even a French toast station – the possibilities are endless. Think of it as a curated morning feast. Your guests will remember the flavours, the fun, and the relaxed vibe. After all, the food is what people remember the most, and a brunch menu can make for an unforgettable experience.
3. More Venue and Vendor Availability
Another benefit of brunch weddings is the availability of venues and vendors. Evening weddings are the most popular choice, meaning they book up quickly. But if you opt for a brunch wedding, you have a better shot at securing your dream venue without the added stress of competing for prime time slots.
During a wedding planning session for a couple from St Kilda, they found that by booking a Sunday morning brunch wedding, they had their pick of some of Melbourne’s top venues – places that were otherwise fully booked for evening events. And when it comes to vendors, many suppliers are more flexible in the morning, giving you greater availability and the chance to lock in top-tier professionals who might be booked out later in the day.
4. A Relaxed and Family-Friendly Celebration
One of the things I’ve noticed with brunch weddings is the more relaxed and intimate atmosphere they create. When I worked with a couple from Richmond who held their wedding at a local garden venue, the entire mood felt so much more chilled than traditional evening events. Guests were mingling over coffee and pastries, while children were running around the garden playing lawn games.
Brunch weddings naturally create a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Unlike evening weddings, which can sometimes drag on late into the night, a brunch wedding ends earlier – making it easier for families with young children to enjoy the event without worrying about late bedtimes. Plus, the morning hours mean the kids are well-rested, and you’re less likely to see tantrums or cranky little ones.
The relaxed atmosphere also allows you to get creative with things like décor and dress code. It’s not unusual for guests to wear semi-formal attire or something more casual. Whether it’s a sunny garden or a cosy indoor space with natural light, the venue itself can reflect this easy-going vibe, creating the perfect atmosphere for those who want to skip the stiff formalities of an evening affair.
5. Enjoy More Time After the Wedding
Here’s something most couples don’t realise when planning a wedding: the morning wedding means you get to enjoy the rest of the day. Think about it – after the ceremony and reception, you’re free to spend the afternoon together, or you can kick off your honeymoon without feeling completely wiped out from the day.
For one couple I worked with, this was a game-changer. They held their brunch wedding at a vineyard just outside of Melbourne, and by 2 PM, the ceremony was over, the guests had celebrated, and the newlyweds were able to head straight to the airport for a relaxing honeymoon in Bali. This saved them from the exhaustion of an evening event, where the after-party and wind-down can sometimes stretch until late evening, leaving you more drained than celebratory.
If you’re not off on a honeymoon right away, you can also spend the afternoon doing something special – maybe a relaxing picnic with close friends or a casual dinner with family at a local restaurant. The freedom to shape your post-wedding day however you like is one of the underrated perks of brunch weddings.
Cons of Brunch Weddings: Potential Challenges to Consider
Of course, no wedding is without its challenges. Brunch weddings are no exception. While the benefits are clear, it’s important to consider the drawbacks too. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your brunch wedding.
1. Early Start: A Tough Morning for Wedding Preparations
Planning a brunch wedding requires a bit of early-bird energy, and if you’re a night owl, this might be a bit of a stretch. Wedding prep can take hours – from hair and makeup to final touches on your look. If you’re planning a 10 AM ceremony, that means you’re likely waking up at 5 or 6 AM to start getting ready.
When I worked with a couple who had a brunch wedding in the Yarra Valley, they had to wake up at dawn to begin their preparations. It wasn’t ideal for everyone in the wedding party, and the stress of early wake-up times definitely took a toll on some. So, if you and your bridal party aren’t morning people, make sure to plan extra time for rest and relaxation the day before. It might also be a good idea to arrange for a light breakfast or coffee station for the bridal party to keep everyone energized.
The key takeaway here is: don’t underestimate how early you’ll need to start your wedding day. A late night might feel like a breeze for an evening wedding, but with brunch weddings, that morning wake-up call will come fast!
2. A Quieter Reception: Filling the Dance Floor Can Be Tricky
Another challenge I’ve seen with brunch weddings is the quieter reception. While a lively evening reception can easily get guests on the dance floor, brunch weddings tend to have a more laid-back feel. People might not feel as inclined to dance after they’ve just enjoyed a hearty meal of eggs and avocado toast.
I worked with a couple in the Dandenong Ranges who had a beautiful brunch reception, but they quickly realised that the majority of guests were more focused on mingling and chatting rather than tearing it up on the dance floor. If dancing is an essential part of your celebration, you may need to get creative. Maybe bring in some fun alternative entertainment, like lawn games or a photo booth, to keep things lively. Or, you could hire a DJ to play softer, upbeat tunes that fit the vibe of the morning.
That said, the lack of dancing might not be an issue for everyone. If a relaxed environment suits your vision for the day, then this might actually be a plus rather than a drawback.
3. Limited Guest Availability and Travel Concerns
Not everyone loves the idea of an early start, and that’s something you’ll need to consider when sending out your invitations. The early timing might make it difficult for some guests to attend, especially those travelling from out of town. A Sunday morning wedding means guests might have to travel the day before, which can be tough for those with busy schedules or families to consider.
I worked with one couple in Geelong whose relatives had to drive from Sydney for their brunch wedding. Although the event was intimate and well-planned, a few guests expressed concerns about the early start time and travel logistics. It’s worth thinking about how your guest list may be impacted. To avoid any disappointments, ensure your invitations include clear details on the start time and venue accessibility.
4. Less “Wedding-Like” Feel: A More Casual Vibe
Here’s the deal: brunch weddings tend to lean towards a more casual atmosphere. If you’re someone who’s dreaming of a glamorous, black-tie affair with all the bells and whistles, then brunch might feel like a bit of a mismatch.
When planning your wedding, think about what you envision for your big day. One couple I worked with had a traditional vision and wanted everything to feel as grand as possible. A brunch wedding wasn’t right for them, as they felt the event wouldn’t carry the same “wow factor” as a grand evening reception.
But for many couples, this laid-back approach works perfectly. If you embrace the vibe of a brunch wedding, it can still be just as meaningful and beautiful. Don’t let the lack of formality hold you back from creating a celebration that feels authentic to you.
Key Considerations for Planning Your Brunch Wedding
Now that we’ve covered the pros and cons, it’s time to talk strategy. Planning a brunch wedding is about making the most of what’s great about it while keeping those challenges in mind.
Budgeting and Prioritising Your Wedding Must-Haves
A wedding planning checklist is a must when putting together your brunch wedding. Consider your priorities and how to allocate your budget effectively. Brunch weddings tend to be more affordable, but it’s still important to track costs carefully, especially with the added elements like unique food stations or special décor.
Crafting the Perfect Brunch Menu
One of the things that really stands out at a brunch wedding is the food. After all, it’s what sets the tone for the whole event. When planning your brunch menu, it’s all about striking the right balance between sweet and savoury, and ensuring you cater to every guest’s dietary needs.
From my experience, offering a variety of options is key. A couple I worked with in St Kilda included everything from savoury omelets to freshly baked pastries and French toast stacks. Their spread was a hit! Guests could customise their own plates, creating their perfect brunch experience. This not only delighted guests but also kept the atmosphere casual and fun.
A good brunch menu doesn’t just have to be delicious – it can also be fun. Consider setting up a mimosa bar, offering a variety of fresh fruit juices and spirits, or even serving craft beer or wine. Adding personal touches like homemade jams or local cheeses will give your brunch wedding a special, local feel.
Venue Selection: Indoor vs Outdoor Brunch Wedding Locations
When it comes to choosing the right venue for your brunch wedding, the time of day and vibe of the event is crucial. Think about whether you want an indoor venue with beautiful natural light or an outdoor space with lush gardens or a beach setting.
One couple I helped organise a brunch wedding for in Melbourne opted for an outdoor garden venue, taking full advantage of the soft morning light that made for some amazing photos. It was a relaxed setting, surrounded by greenery, and the guests couldn’t get enough of the fresh air and bright skies. On the flip side, if the weather’s not guaranteed, indoor venues with plenty of windows and natural light are a great option.
You also want to consider the venue’s amenities. Does it provide in-house catering, or will you need to hire external caterers? If the venue allows outside vendors, this gives you more flexibility and the chance to shop around for the best deals. Just be sure to understand any extra costs that may come with bringing in your own vendors.
Creating the Right Atmosphere: Décor and Dress Code
Brunch weddings naturally lend themselves to a more relaxed and whimsical atmosphere, so your décor should reflect that. When working with one couple in the Yarra Valley, we went for a light and airy colour palette with pastel hues, complemented by lots of greenery and rustic wooden accents. It was simple but elegant, and felt right for a daytime wedding. The floral arrangements, which included lavender and wildflowers, perfectly matched the vibe they were going for.
For the dress code, don’t be afraid to make it casual – it’s your day, after all. I’ve seen brides in boho-style dresses and guests in sundresses and button-down shirts. The relaxed dress code is one of the perks of a brunch wedding. However, be sure to clearly communicate the dress expectations on your invitations. Guests should know it’s a more casual event, but still be stylish and comfortable.
Wedding Schedule Checklist: Ensuring a Smooth Day
As with any wedding, timing is everything. But with a brunch wedding, the timing is particularly important because you’ll need to make sure everything runs smoothly and on time. Start by creating a wedding timeline that fits the brunch setting. Here’s a sample timeline that might work:
- 8:00 AM – Getting Ready: Hair and makeup for the bridal party.
- 9:30 AM – Ceremony Begins: A short, sweet ceremony to keep things relaxed.
- 10:00 AM – Reception Starts: Guests are invited to mingle and enjoy brunch stations.
- 11:30 AM – Toasts & Speeches: Light speeches or toasts while guests finish their meal.
- 12:00 PM – Cake Cutting: It’s not traditional, but it adds a nice touch.
- 1:00 PM – Final Toasts & Thank You: Time to wrap up and say your thanks to everyone.
The key here is to keep it relaxed while maintaining a good flow. There’s no need to rush through the day. If you incorporate some lawn games, a photo booth, or live acoustic music, you’ll keep your guests entertained and engaged without the pressure of sticking to a rigid schedule.
Why Brunch Weddings Are the New Black
By now, I’m sure you can see why brunch weddings are becoming such a popular option. They offer a relaxed atmosphere, cost savings, a variety of food choices, and more flexibility in terms of timing. But ultimately, it’s about what suits you as a couple. If you’re someone who loves the idea of a calm, intimate event with a fun, unique twist, a brunch wedding could be exactly what you’ve been searching for.
If the thought of a more traditional evening reception feels too formal or tiring, then why not go with a brunch? After all, it’s about celebrating your love in a way that feels true to you.
