Wye Beach Hotel

Last weekend I shot my fifth wedding at the Wye Beach Hotel (WBH), and I’ve shot a heap more elopements at Wye River too. Every time a couple books me for the WBH, I get super excited.

When the day comes, I LOVE setting off early and cruising the coast from Torquay. The drive along the Great Ocean Road really is part of the fun of a Wye River wedding. Last Friday did not disappoint. Although, I should have packed the surfboard - with tantalisingly clean lines in the ocean at every bend in the road.

Wye River, taken from a property near WBH

So let’s talk location! The WBH is nestled into the hillside at the beautiful bay of Wye River. The view is simply stunning for a ceremony on their front lawn, and - depending on tides etc. - there is sometimes the chance to get married on the beach itself!

On those gorgeous hot summer days, there is generally a gentle breeze, often from the North, cleaning up the ocean beautifully, and cooling off both you and your guests.

And for the more wild weather, well, both the bay and venue property is also sheltered from the windiest of winds, which is typically a South Westerly, here in Victoria.

Wye River is a great destination wedding location, with guests taking over the town for a weekend - perhaps enjoying a breakfast and great coffee at the General Store! There are beautiful airbnbs, and also the campground on the foreshore, but it is definitely helpful to book in advance.

Steph and some of her Bridesmaids on the rocks below the WBH

What I love about Wye River is the ease to get awesome photos! And there is such a variety available too.

From the WBH itself, I usually do a quick loop along the road (watch for traffic, although expect a friendly honk or two), down onto the beach, and back up to the venue. This is a great way to get some road, stair, beach and rock shots. And! All can be done in 30-45 minutes!

Sidenote, if you want shots in the trees, I’ve got a spot for you…

Steph & Pete celebrate in style at the quiet end of the beach

You’ll love taking off your shoes and strolling the beach mid wedding - especially at the quiet end, away from swimmers and sunbathers.

Wye River is beautiful whatever the weather. I have been there on mostly blue sky days, and of course, the place is stunning. But when the clouds come over, or in the case of the pic below, a one in twenty-five year storm, you get a taste of the brooding coast - and a sense that you really are in the Otway National Park. This is when your eyes are drawn to the sky, trees, river mouth, and valley up to the hills - where the sun sets.

One of the best bits about the Wye Beach Hotel? The staff!

Although they are all lovely, a huge mention goes to the wonderful Fi (Fiona) and Mikayla. You will feel in safe hands with these two from the minute you meet them, and I love how involved they get with ensuring I, as photographer, have everything I need. On the day they are absolute legends, and will have you covered even if things don’t quite go to plan.

Below is the happy couple from last Friday’s wedding! Smiling because, as always, Wye River delivered!

P.S. Did I mention the ease of a quick dash to the beach for sunset?

Wye Beach Hotel - website

The Peak, Lorne