When it comes to romantic weddings at Brisbane Customs House Venue it continues to be one of the most sought-after . And for good reason!
For instance as a wedding photographer, I’ve worked there many times, and it never ceases to inspire awe in me. In other words, i love photographing the bride and groom against the stunning décor of this grand, historic building.
History of Customs House
In the nineteenth century, all major ports had customs houses. Brisbane’s original Customs House was opened on 18 March 1850. However, it was only a small, two-room cottage. With Brisbane’s increasing population, the building soon became inadequate for this growing colony.
In 1884, Brisbane’s Colonial Treasurer commissioned a larger, and more glamorous and stately, building. This is the Customs House we know today.
The building has had several renovations in 171 years, but it’s always retained a rich, historic feel. And its location, perched above the Brisbane River, makes it known as one of the best Customs Houses in the world.
Many room choices
Customs House provides a host of rooms that cater to small and large weddings. Here are my favourites:
The Long Room
This jaw-dropping room is located beneath the building’s dome, with high, ornate ceilings of almost 20 metres and grand columns. There’s also a private balcony with a panoramic view of the river.
This room will make any bride and groom feel like royalty.
It fits:
- banquet: 220 guests
- cocktail: 300 guests
- cabaret: 120 guests
- theatre: 300 guests.
The River Room
For something more contemporary and intimate, you’ll love The River Room.
This was formerly the Lady Thiess Room, but it’s older style and fixtures have been updated, turning it into a state-of-the-art function room.
You can look out over the Story Bridge and access the River Terrace from this room.
It fits:
- banquet: 120 guests
- cocktail: 200 guests
- cabaret: 100 guests
- theatre: 200 guests.
The Sylvia Jones Boardroom
If you want a smaller, intimate wedding dinner with close friends and family, you must see the Sylvia Jones Boardroom on the mezzanine level.
For instance this room will transport you straight to the 1880s, with its ornate cedar furniture, silverware, crystal chandelier and marble fireplace. In other words, You’ll settle in and never want to leave!
It fits:
- banquet: 24 guests
- cabaret: 22 guests.
Award-winning restaurant
As I’ve photographed many weddings at Brisbane Customs House Venue, In addition I’ve been lucky enough to eat their amazing food. Their award-winning restaurant, Patina, creates artistic, contemporary cuisine using local produce from the region.
Only last year, the restaurant won Caterer of the Year at the 2020 Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence QLD and NT.
They can cater for all dietary needs, and the attentive, friendly wait staff will make sure you and your guests are well looked after.
Easy location
With its inner city location on Queen Street, Customs House is very easy for you and your guests to access.
Parking is only a five minute walk away. There is also plenty of public transport nearby – buses, trains and ferries.
Reassuring and friendly support
Customs House will give you an event coordinator to assist you up to and on the big day. Most importantly I have seen their real ‘can-do’ approach to looking after bridal parties and their guests.
I’ve always felt looked after there, for instance I’m sure you’ll have the same experience.
Weddings at Brisbane Customs House Venue have produced some of my most stunning photographs. In conclusion if you would like to know more or discuss your own wedding needs, feel free to contact me.
