In considering this article it was nice to pause and reflect on the variety of weddings I’ve been fortunate enough to capture around Tasmania in the last decade or so. For a small state, we’ve got such a variety of landscapes, locations and venues that there’s always somewhere new to discover and capture.
The most memorable weddings to me, are the ones where the couple has really thought about their priorities and chosen a venue where they have the flexibility to have the exact day they dreamed of.
Whether it’s a simple beachside elopement or a more extravagant celebration, if you’re having a great time, you’ll have fantastic photos to remember it by. It was difficult to narrow it down, but I’ve chosen to write briefly about four very different venues where I have experienced some of the most beautiful and memorable Tassie weddings.
North – Clarendon Estate
Clarendon is a beautiful, historical estate just 30 minutes outside Launceston in the north of Tasmania. I love the versatility of Clarendon and it’s been incredible to see the different ways in which couples have made this venue their own.
The beautiful three-storey Georgian mansion is an incredible backdrop for photos and the surrounding 7 hectares of parkland offer walled gardens, avenues of elm trees and rustic outbuildings to explore.
Make sure to sneak outside at sunset for some photos before joining your guests and turning the music up, there are no neighbours to worry about!
Credit: Styling and floral by Bek Burrows
East – Avalon Coastal Retreat
The East Coast of Tasmania has always been a favourite getaway spot for Tasmanians wanting to escape and relax. Just 1.5 hrs from both Launceston and Hobart, Avalon is a 3 bedroom modernist dream house that sits just above the pristine coast line.
The lawns surrounding the house provide locations for your ceremony, cocktail hour or a more formal sit down reception, not to mention picture postcard views in all directions. The private beach is just a short stroll down the hill. I love to photograph weddings at Avalon. The colours and textures in the landscape are incredible and the light on summer evenings make for spectacular photos.
Credit: Table styling and floral by Bek Burrows
South – Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
I can say honestly that MONA has been a game changer for weddings in Tasmania. Not content with being a world class museum, MONA is also intent on providing couples with a backdrop for their most important celebrations.
My first focus is always on people and emotion, but MONA adds an element of architectural drama to my images which is not possible elsewhere in Tasmania. The forms, colours and contrast of light and shadow make for a fresh and bold set of images every time.
At a venue where nothing is static, the MONA team have your back for anything from a low key elopement to a jaw dropping extravaganza. Seriously, check out what they have to offer. Did I oversell it? Nope, I stand by it.
Credit: All styling and floral by Bek Burrows
West – Highfield House, Stanley
Highfield House in Tasmania’s north west feels like a destination wedding at the edge of the world. Located 3 hours drive from Launceston, Stanley is a small town with (literal) movie set charm.
Highfield House is a beautiful historic property that sits amongst rich farmland overlooking the town of Stanley and the wild ocean beyond. The images I capture here have a rugged, remote and romantic feel to them which is quintessentially Tasmanian.
A charming chapel and a restored barn add to the richness of backdrops for your photos and the views from the expansive lawns provide the perfect location to capture those relaxed moments with a cocktail or two.
If you’re looking for a unique and private destination, you’ll be rewarded with unmatched views, absolute privacy and stunning photo locations.
Credit: Table styling and floral by Bek Burrows
Ms Zebra Says: I get so excited to see all of the amazing destinations in Tasmania that host weddings. Each individual and incredible in their own right. Thanks for sharing Jonathan – not only the beautiful images you create, but the fun places you constantly get to shoot!
About Jonathan Wherrett: After a decade photographing weddings I get that it’s about a lot more than the photos. For me, it’s personal – I understand the planning, excitement and anticipation that goes into your wedding day. Many of the couples I work with travel to Tasmania for a destination wedding. It’s great to be able to share my experience with each couple, whether it’s recommending venues, locations or the perfect professional to ensure that your wedding day is flawless.
Join the conversation