- photos FRONT-GATES

Just a few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be part of a small group of bridal industry wordsmiths who were invited to experience the best of the Whitsundays. After stepping onto the tarmac and breathing in the balmy air, I knew we were in for a fun-filled few days.

We were greeted by our Whitsundays Marketing host and whisked away in a stretch limousine en route to the luxury Villa Botanica, Airlie Beach. Love songs and chatter filled the air as we were informed that the Villa Botanica experience had already begun – limo transfers are arranged for couples ensuring they feel special from the moment they step foot.

We pulled into the stunning grounds and silence ensued as we took a moment to drink it all in. Once created as a dream home for his wife, Villa Botanica owners Ralph and Janet decided to exclusively share their property with newlyweds-to-be. The meticulous attention to detail within the gardens speaks volumes of their love story (it’s a fairytale read, trust me).

We were taken to where it all starts in the private salon for bridal party preparations. There is nothing makeshift about this room. It has a mammoth mirror covering most of the wall, chairs for pampering perched in front, and an adjoining ensuite. I’m certain a glass of bubbly would appear on the wedding morning too.

- prep BRIDAL SALON

- prep BRIDAL VILLA VERANDAH

- prep HALLWAY

The next stop on our tour lead us up a mosaic-tiled aisle to a hand-crafted timber pavilion with views across Pioneer Bay to Airlie Beach. The aisle alone is what gave me goosebumps as we made our grand entry through the stone archway flanked by sky-high palm trees. I congratulate the owners for taking this into consideration during their design – an aisle should never be an afterthought, and this one ranks highly on my list of dream aisles.

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- ceremony BALI FEEL

We viewed the old timber ceremony pavilion – now a perfect photographic backdrop – and continued our exploration to the Cactarium. This tented location is not only a haven for cacti but a unique setting for pictures with its intricately carved seats. Just a short walk away is another change in scenery as lush tropical rainforest emerges. You are simply spoilt for choice at Villa Botanica!

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Image by Ms Chevron

- photos CEREMONY-BALI

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Somehow they managed to drag us away from the gorgeous grounds and to the newly created Sea Deck. Whilst this space is versatile, it would certainly be my pick for sunset drinks and canapés. Fairy lights twinkle and there’s plenty of sweet French cafe style chairs for seating. Oh, did I mention the view? It’s incredible.

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Image by Ms Chevron

COCKTAIL ON SEA DECK

Lunch was served on the 30m long verandah and if the sample menu was anything to go by then foodies will be impressed. The marble ballroom adjoins the verandah as either a reception room or dance floor, and there’s a cake room. Yes, seriously, there is a room dedicated to the presentation of your wedding cake. It has an exquisite glass cabinet behind it with all kinds of beautiful shells, and fish look on from their tank as you cut the cake.

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Image by Ms Chevron

- RECEPTION facing ocean

- RECEPTION-GUESTS

Grooms will be happy to know that you don’t have to carry your bride far once the night comes to an end… the bridal villa is just a few steps down the corridor. The suite contains a king-size four-poster bed and an outdoor terrazzo bathtub which looks divine. Guests can also be accommodated offsite at a number of Airlie Beach hotels and resorts.

- photos MAIN VILLA DOORS

- photos FIREWORKS-2

Villa Botanica certainly is an exquisite Whitsundays wedding venue so why not contact them today to discuss your dream wedding?!

Images by Iconic Bride Photography Polka Dot Bride traveled to the Whitsundays as a guest of Whitsundays Tourism for editorial consideration in accordance with our disclosure policy.