5 Places in Sydney to Have a Same-Sex Wedding

In Australia, love is definitely in the air as residents have overwhelmingly cast their vote in favor of marriage equality.

Although the vote, a “non-binding postal survey,” does not make same-sex marriage legal, the hugely favorable response to the issue means Australia’s parliament will now dive into the issue.

Unlike Australia’s regular elections, the survey wasn’t mandatory. Still, some 79.5 percent of eligible voters (more than 12.6 million people) cast their vote. The survey, which asked just one question, “Should the marriage law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?” ran for eight weeks.

In the end, 61 percent of the population, or nearly 8 million people, voted “yes.”

Waking up bursting with pride YES Australia #marriagequality #LoveWinsAgain #AustraliaSaidYES pic.twitter.com/O0cS5vQgbK

— Minnie Stephenson (@MinnieSteph5) November 15, 2017

According to CNN, politicians have already introduced a framework for a bill legalizing gay marriage, and hope to have the issue finalized by Christmas.

Meanwhile, marriage proposals are coming fast and furious across the nation, as gay, lesbian and other alt couples use the historic vote as a backdrop against which to pop the question.

Australia said YES, and he said YES (in the arrivals hall of the airport no less) and we are elated and giddy and in strong need of a drink. #marriagequality pic.twitter.com/50jzvwiixc

— Michael Lucas (@MrMichaelLucas) November 15, 2017

While the legalization of gay marriage is now in the hands of politicians, there are already plenty of venues throughout Australia that are supremely committed to the issue of marriage equality.

For LGBT couples looking to visit Australia to be among the first to enjoy a “legal” gay wedding in that country, here are a few ideal venues in the nation’s capital:

Pier One Sydney Harbor

Located right on the waterfront, Pier One Sydney Harbor, a member of the Autograph Collection, offers stunning views of the Sydney Harbor, the bridge and Walsh Bay.

Glam things up with an arrival by boat, and then say, “I do” while taking in one of the city’s most iconic views. Keep the affair intimate at the hotel’s popular Gantry restaurant, or plan a destination wedding gala of up to 200, in one of the hotel’s waterfront-facing event venues.

READ MORE: Marriott Takes Lead in LGBTQ Multicultural Efforts

Sydney Glass Island

For virtually unrestricted views of the harbor, the Sydney Glass Island might just be the perfect venue. These vessels—a cross between an excursion cruise and a glass house—sail through the harbor while guests enjoy the views from the upper and lower decks.

You’re welcome to have your actual nuptials on board, but keep in mind that the views are so gorgeous, guests might forget to watch the happy couple. The boat can host a gala reception of up to 350 people.

Studio, Sydney Tower

Great views are also yours for the having at Studio, Sydney Tower, the city’s highest event space. Soaring almost 1,000 feet above the city, Studio can hold up to 200 guests. Up this high, noise ordinances are no issue, so the party can continue until 3 a.m., if you want to stay up that late.

Plus, if you’re planning to get married in winter (that’s June, July & August for those of us in North America), the space offers big savings for off-season weddings.

Centennial Homestead

If you’d rather say, “I do” in a more pastoral setting, there’s no lack of green space in Sydney. Inside Centennial Park, surrounded by green lawns, ponds and lakes, Centennial Homestead has numerous options for a pretty garden wedding.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch and nuptials for two, or you’d rather exchange your vows under a canopy of trees, or you’re planning on staging a blowout bash for 120 of your closest friends under the starry evening sky, the venue’s staff can help you plan a ceremony that's right for you..

READ MORE: Same-Sex Weddings Now Available on Board Celebrity Cruises

Festival Weddings

If you’d like to try something truly funky—like, say, get married while taking in one of Sydney’s amazingly popular music festivals—there’s a company that can handle that for you. Because festival weddings usually come complete with built-in music, performers, art installations, vendors and local food, this can be an extremely budget-friendly way to tie the knot. Festival Weddings Australia works with events throughout Australia and can tailor the exact wedding experience you are looking to create.

Looking for more inspiration? Equally Wed is an online Australian portal specializing in gay, lesbian, queer and transgender couples, with a goal of helping LGBT couples to plan their wedding, “from a directory of equality-minded professionals without fear of rejection.”

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