Say ‘I do’ to the Old Parliament House Wedding Open Night

Posted on 17 February, 2023

Fountains, courtyards covered in flowers and one of Canberra’s most iconic buildings. It’s the perfect recipe for a fairytale wedding.

And the team at Old Parliament House are opening the doors for you to come and imagine this fairytale for your big day.

The Old Parliament House Wedding Open Night is back for 2023 so round up your friends, family and fiancée to explore all this heritage-listed site has to offer and get cracking on your ‘to-do’ list before the big ‘I do’.

Offering packages from 20 to 400 people and boasting two spectacular gardens, Old Parliament House has been a favourite destination for happy couples for decades, and the Open Night on Thursday 2 March is your chance to find out why.

On the night, sip on a glass of bubbles, Capital Brewing Co. beer, a refreshing gin and tonic from Underground Spirits, even a non-alcoholic beverage from Altina, as you explore this historic venue with a canapé in hand—all completely free. With a variety of ceremony and reception decór styles on display, you’ll get up close and personal with how your big day could look—no surprises.

“When meeting couples, almost every time they have a connection to this venue and its beauty,” says Event Sales Manager Dallas McIntyre. “On the rare occasion that they don’t have a connection, they are about to create their own history. I love the connectedness that we all have to this beautiful house, it’s for all people.”

Naturally, each couple’s dream wedding is completely different to the next and that’s why the team offers personalised and customisable wedding packages.

Credit: Alex Pasquali Photography

“We know that no wedding is the same, and love to work closely with each couple to capture their vision,” explains Event Sales Manager at Old Parliament House, Dallas McIntyre. “We offer personalised, flexible packages and can cater for weddings with up to 400 guests as well as small intimate ceremonies and receptions of 20 nearest and dearest if you prefer a more intimate affair.”

Credit: Zinette Hopper Photography

Old Parliament House is a place where momentous decisions were made, royalty walked the halls and Canberra became what it is today— including the Members’ Bar and Dining Room which are two of Dallas’ favourite locations.

“Sometimes I just stand back and take a breath and remember that this is the place where some of the most important topics of our country’s times were discussed,” she says. “There are still a lot of original little touches such as waiter’s bells on the walls and secret panels that open to ease service from the kitchens to the bar and dining rooms. Original leather couches that so many people throughout history would have lounged on—maybe even the Queen—and dumb waiters that still work to access deep cellars and old unused kitchens. It’s very hard to have a favourite part when it is all so special.”

Credit: Mel Hill Photography

Dallas also adds that while Canberra weather is known for its unpredictability, no forecast will get between you and your ‘I do’.

“The flow from the outdoor courtyard and terrace spaces to indoor spaces are so seamless. We are suited for all weather, all year, and the stately photo opportunities are like no other in Canberra, especially the Kings Hall, which used to host state balls.”

An impressive range of local vendors will also be on display throughout the evening, including one of our favourite local breweries, Capital Brewing Co.

“We are excited to have our products at OPH and can’t wait to see those brews pouring from the old taps in the Members’ Bar at the next wedding,” says Liam from Capital Brewing and Co.

Celebrants, chocolatiers, photographers and DJs will all be represented on the night, with the experienced team from Old Parliament House on hand to answer all your questions. From the Site Manager to Head Chef to Operations Manager and Wedding Coordinator, everyone will be available to talk through the vision for your special day and how they can make it a reality.

Not sure which way to go with vendors? Dallas suggests keeping the events team in the loop.

“We have seen a lot of great collaborations with local vendors—things you may not have even thought of that brings a unique touch to your special day,” she says.

After you finish exploring, you’ll also get to take home a selection of goodies, with giveaways and exclusive offers available for those who attend on the night.

And the best part? It’s all completely free—simply register for the event on Eventbrite (there’s nothing worse than not having enough snacks on hand) to start planning your very own Cinderella moment.

Feature image supplied by Corinna and Dylan Photography