The Ultimate Guide to Ballroom Weddings

When it comes to ballroom weddings, let your imagination run wild. It can be as opulent, modern, whimsical, or subtle as you like. It’s all about creating an atmosphere that will make your guests feel like they’re in a fairytale. A ballroom wedding venue’s versatility is one of the many reasons couples love this location. From a grand entrance as newlyweds to your first dance under the lights, this elegant space can host some of your most cherished memories.

A party room traditionally accommodates both dances and dinner. However, engaged couples may wish to host their ceremony and cocktail hour in the same ballroom. After this, guests can wait for the bride and groom to enter as the newlyweds. Once they receive a rousing welcome from their loved ones, they can step on the dance floor for hours of entertainment. Set the stage on fire with your chosen DJ and a playlist of your favourite songs. You can also incorporate fun games to make the party even more exciting—there’s so much a ballroom has to offer.

Choosing a dancing hall as a backdrop for your special day is a brilliant idea, but it requires considering several factors. It’s no easy feat, especially ensuring each element is in harmony with each other. This guide covers everything you need to know when deciding between several ballroom venues, including factors to consider and traditions to follow.

Considerations for A Ballroom Wedding

Feeling overwhelmed going over several wedding ballroom venues to find one that ticks all the boxes? We’re sure the locations you’ve selected will be stunning but we encourage you to consider the following factors before deciding:

Location

Your selected venue should be easily reachable for all the attendees, with options for accommodation nearby and ample parking space. The closer it is to airports, major highways, or central locations, the more convenient it will be for your guests. Plus, ensure that the locality is pleasant and safe so you can host a comfortable celebration.

The View

Beyond mere accessibility, a venue close to picturesque landscapes adds an enchanting flair to your ceremony. The view from the ballroom can make all the difference. When touring a site, check whether there are floor-to-ceiling windows that will allow enough sunlight to enter the space. You can also ask the coordinator about the best views for the perfect picture. Consider a location like Seasons5 that is nestled amidst lush greenery, overlooking a sparkling waterbody.

Capacity

Wedding ballrooms are usually big and open to accommodate a long list of guests. So, it’s a good idea to have a rough estimate of the attendees. This helps you check if the area can be adjusted for varying headcounts without feeling too empty or too cramped.

Dance Floor Space

Venue restrictions play a major role in determining the dance floor size that will suit your party. A few halls have a designated platform for dancing separated from the dining space with different flooring. Perhaps you want a single theme running throughout with a clearly defined dance floor? Whatever option you like, make sure the surface is safe and non-slippery so that everyone can have a great time dancing.

Catering and Menu Planning

One of your top priorities when selecting a ballroom for a wedding and reception should be catering services. As food contributes to the overall enjoyment of any celebration, you must ensure it exceeds everyone’s expectations. Choose a venue with catering facilities and a large selection of exquisite entrees, mains, and desserts.

Seasons5’s Cinnamon Bay Restaurant is known for offering sumptuous meals at weddings made by in-house chef with 20+ years of experience. Plus, our event managers take care of every possible aspect to ensure everything is up to the mark while you mingle with your guests.

Guest Experience and Comfort

Ensuring guests enjoy your big day to the fullest is key to a successful wedding. We suggest opting for a ballroom with ample seating options and space for guests to relax. You also need to check whether the restroom facilities are nearby, otherwise you’ll end up with unhappy guests.

Stunning Photography Opportunities

Your chosen venue will set the stage for breathtaking photos so it needs to be perfect. No matter what theme you select for your nuptials, the setting serves as the canvas for the wedding photos. Consider the following factors when choosing a ballroom:

  • Natural light

  • Architectural charm

  • Theme

  • Atmosphere

  • Colour palette

  • Scenic backdrops

  • Photography and videography policies

Entertainment and Activities

Never underestimate the importance of fun activities at weddings. Adding a pinch of entertainment to your function can entice your guests to indulge in every part of your celebration. Some wedding reception venues can arrange small games during the function, so make sure you ask the coordinators during the site tour.

Flexibility for Designing Your Dream Wedding

Wedding ceremony venues that offer the possibility of customisation should be your top choice. When you leave no stone unturned, your guests are treated to a truly exceptional event. There are some ways to make your already beautiful function even more special.

Take a look at the following options:

  • Table Arrangements

    You can arrange seating for your guests in many ways, depending on where you want your dancing floor to be. Decide whether you want separate dining and dancing spaces or the stage to be the centre of the attraction. In the first case, the tables can be arranged on one side of the ballroom while the DJ and dance floor occupy the opposite one. A venue that can change its setup to fit your needs is the one to go for.

  • Time of the Day

    Both sunset and moonlight wedding looks dreamy. However, the time of the ceremony will influence the timeline for other events like the cocktail hour and reception. Before finalising a location, ask the event coordinator whether they can reschedule the party accordingly.

  • Custom Lighting

    One of the essentials in a wedding or reception is lighting as it can transform an ordinary space into an extraordinary one. From twinkling string lights to dramatic chandeliers, custom lighting can truly make your event stand out. So, don’t forget to ask about these options when hunting for a venue.

Traditions for A Ballroom Wedding

A night full of dancing is one of the common ballroom wedding traditions. Nonetheless, take a look at some of the other options you can incorporate in your party:

  • Walking down the aisle with parents

  • First official dance as the newlyweds

  • Garter toss by the groom

  • Bouquet toss by the bride

  • Cutting the cake

  • Carrying the bride over the threshold

  • Father-daughter or mother-son dance

  • The shoe game

  • Unity bowl

  • Money dance

  • Rice showering the newlyweds

Selecting the Perfect Ballroom Venue in Melbourne

When looking for an all-inclusive wedding and reception ballroom venue, Seasons5 stands out above the rest. Set amidst a picturesque landscape, our estate boasts a stunning ballroom with a flexible layout in Melbourne. The seating capacity varies from 100 to 450, depending on what you want.

Our resort offers several luxurious amenities that can elevate the overall wedding experience. Most importantly, we prioritise excellence in every aspect, be it a well-appointed bridal suite, décor setup, technical support, or staff. Call us today on 03 8376 5300 or email us at contact@seasons5.com to book a site visit of our ballroom wedding venue in Point Cook, Melbourne.