FAQ's

Here's some extra information that might help...

What is the venue hire and what does it include?

Venue hire is $5500 and includes styling for both your ceremony and reception by Empire Retreat. Venue hire includes all set up and pack down costs plus heaters if required, wireless microphone, fairy lights around the umbrellas, Turkish rugs, signage, exclusive use of the venue and a wedding coordinator. Additional styling items can be arranged with Empire Events at a discounted cost. Furniture and styling packages are for cocktail style weddings and are based on numbers of up to 80 guests. You may require additional furniture and styling if your numbers exceed 80. Special packages for smaller weddings can be arranged.

Can we BYO?

No. We supply full catering for both food and beverage.

What time is ceremony & reception usually?

The ceremony is no earlier than 4:30pm with reception beginning immediately after at around 5pm. Some couples prefer to have guests visit another location whilst they go and have photos and meet their guests back at The White Elephant at 6 – 6:30pm.

How long is venue hire?

Venue hire goes from ceremony start time through to reception conclusion. Reception conclusion is based on your beverage package selection and can extend through until midnight. There are additional charges for weddings concluding past midnight and this must be pre-arranged with your wedding coordinator.

Is there another venue nearby we can send guests during photo time?

Yes. The Common is a bar / bistro / restaurant just 400m from The White Elephant. Guests can enjoy a drink and nibble on the deck or play a game of pool inside whilst they wait.

What are the deposit and payment arrangements?

We require a $1000 non-refundable holding fee. This secures your preferred date and activates your BBW Wedding Plan. This document outlines your initial preferences for styling and menus and contains all the other relevant information you need to finalise the remaining details of your wedding.

Do you take 'tentative' bookings?

Tentative bookings will be held for a period of fourteen days and will automatically be cancelled unless arrangements have been made to extend the tentative booking period.

What happens if it rains on my wedding day?

Depending on your guest numbers we have the option to set up indoors for both reception and ceremony if the weather doesn’t allow for either to be outside. In the event your numbers are bigger than what can be held within the restaurant a marquee will be arranged at the expense of the bride and groom. We will need ample time to arrange a marquee so please be mindful of this.

Is there a minimum spend or minimum numbers?

There is no minimum spend, however, guest numbers must not be below 30. If your numbers drop below 30 you will be charged the 30 guest minimum.

Can I come and view the venue?

Yes! Please arrange an appointment with one of our wedding staff prior to your arrival as they do not work on site. If you just want to view the venue you’re welcome to visit any time that suits.

Can we have pets on the beach?

No. The Shire regulations state the beach in front of the café is a not a dog beach. Horses are not permitted either.

What are maximum guest numbers?

For cocktail style our maximum guest numbers are 200, for a family style banquet sit down dinner the maximum numbers are 60 guests. Depending on numbers and menu style you may require additional furniture.

Do we need to seek permission to get married on the beach?

Yes. You will need to apply to the shire for permission to get married on the beach. Our wedding coordinator will send out an application form at the appropriate time with the relevant details for you to fill it out. A fee of $130 is required and paid directly to the shire.

Can I arrange my own styling?

You’re welcome to add your own elements to the styling provided by Empire Events. All additional styling must be approved by your wedding coordinator.

Do you cater for dietary requirements?

Our menu caters for a range of dietary requirements including diary free, gluten free, no onion / garlic, vegan & vegetarian. It is your responsibility to determine the dietary requirements of your guests and select menu options accordingly. We do not cater to individual requests for canapé items, for a charge of $40pp we can arrange main dishes to specific dietary requests where options for canapé are not available / limited. Specific dietary items selected from the canapé options will form part of your overall menu and be served to all guests. For further clarification please speak to our wedding coordinator.

Do prices increase from year to year?

Price are calculated based on the date of your wedding and increase annually.  For further clarification please speak to our wedding coordinator who can provided you with an accurate quote.

Do you allow same sex marriage?

OMG! YES!! Love is love :)