The Royal Botanic Gardens are a Melbourne icon, with an incredible history. They were built to collect Australian natives and experiment with different growing styles and techniques. For all the immeasurable aesthetic appeal, the Botanics also foster scientific research and promote an understanding of our relationship with the natural world that we at Serendipity Photography respect.

Gardens and parklands are all fantastic locations for those with an interest in the beauty of natural surrounds, as well as an appreciation for the care and passion that went into creating beautiful and admirable natural environments. The Royal Melbourne Botanic Gardens houses over 10,000 different plant species– Baron Von Meuller established the gardens from 1846 on an original wetlands site, trading seeds and planting species from around the world. The gardens are themed into different collections; at Serendipity we appreciate the intricate tracery of the foliage and winding paths in Fern Gully and the beautiful vistas of rows of trees seen across the waters of Ornamental Lake. For those a little time to spare for walking the Botanic Gardens is full of the varied shapes of leaves and outlines of trees, splendid lawns, and surprising corners. Serendipity recommends booking early for wedding photography or ceremony bookings, and allowing a little more time for transport and parking requirements.

The Royal Botanic Gardens were re-created in 1873 by William Guilfoyle, whose design is still the central feature of the gardens, such that from certain perspectives amazing views can seen. Eight pavilions have been built that from which can be seen the better views of the Royal Botanic Gardens. Most gardens from that era were built to be walked through, but the Botanics have an emphasis on taking in a view in all it’s complexity.

There are, as always, some things you need to consider about the Royal Botanic Gardens. Most importantly you need to buy a permit to use the gardens for a shoot in advance, if you do so and the weather is foul, it might be too late to rethink locations. This is because not all of the best features of the gardens are easily accesible. Some may involve finding a place to park the car and then a short or long walk to your chosen location (not fun in high heels!) All of these things take time on the day, but if you’re passionate about the Royal Botanic Gardens it may well be worth it.

Finally as a reception, if you want something really special we would suggest The Terrace, especially if you have a serious desire to have all the beauty of the Royal Botanic Gardens at your wedding. The Terrace is charismatic with a unique view of the gardens, and it perfect for an evening, especially in summer to watch dusk come over the lake.

The Royal Botanic Gardens are definitely worth considering, but need a bit of commitment to make them worthwhile. But if you love the gardens it’s likely you’ll love your wedding at the Royal Botanic Gardens.