As a wedding and elopement photographer, I’m thrilled to share my expertise and knowledge about the enchanting Cactus Country, a unique and picturesque venue for weddings and elopements. Located in Numurkah, Victoria, this 12-acre property full of indoor options, gardens, and scattered different types of Cacti. It is a haven for couples seeking an unforgettable destination wedding experience. Bonus, it’s pet friendly so you can bring your pooch along too!
No matter if you’re having a wedding or elopement, Cactus Country is a little slice of heaven right here in Victoria, Australia! I’ve been here time and time again, and get asked questions about it all the time in regards to weddings and elopements so I wanted to create this blog so you can have a source to go to if you’re considering this for your wedding or elopement from someone whos worked here before!
Ceremony Options
Choose from many beautiful popular ceremony locations:
Blue Trail: A tranquil spot with a stunning cactus backdrop and sunset views. This is a popular spot and at the very end has a permanent ceremony structure set up available for you to use.
Orange Trail: A popular spot with lush cacti and intimate space for small weddings or elopements.
Yellow Trail: Ideal for intimate elopements or couples who want to keep their ceremony private.
But you can scout the venue yourself, and pick any location you like for your ceremony. Julie (the owner) will happily accomodate your request and is super flexible. If you are getting married and want people to sit down I would personally recommend the Blue Trail spot Cactus Country has available and there is lots of space for your guests to sit, with the way the sun faces they will be in the direct line of sun so having paper fans or umbrellas set up would be helpful to make your guests more comfortable. If you are getting eloped at Cactus Country the choice is yours! Whether you want to go into the gardens, the lush cactus, you can pick your spot anywhere you like.
Bonus: Biodegradable confetti is allowed, and I’ve even had a champagne tower placed for one of my couples in their ceremony spot and heard of a couple who got flown in my helicopter to Cactus Country from Melbourne! So get creative – this your time to shine!
What couples really like about Cactus Country is there is not a lot of extra decorations to worry about. The setting is already very decorative and you can just add some flower decorations on the tables if you want. Super laidback. Some couples get worried that they feel they haven’t done enough to plan a wedding, that it’s all been too easy!
Reception Options
Celebrate your special day with a reception in the outdoor courtyard surrounded by colourful walls, or indoors with a DJ and delicious Mexican cuisine, inclusive of burgers. It is worth noting that Cactus Country for weddings do not offer catering but if you are getting eloped and want to grab a bite to eat after photos, you can sit down inside and have some dinner. Just let Julie know in advance! Cactus Country has a liquor licence to hold up to 200 people for your wedding. However, the indoor part would be suitable for 140 depending upon the style of reception.
Accommodation Options
For out-of-town guests, consider renting an Airbnb in Numurkah or nearby. A popular spot I recommend for getting ready for your big day at Dubuque Bed and Breakfast, just 20 minutes away. I’ve stayed here a few times and its beautiful. This charming B&B offers stunning rooms and a private cottage, perfect for relaxation with complimentary breakfast. You can also sneak away in the back of Cactus Country and get ready there or inside the indoor restaurant space at Cactus Country.
Alternatively, stay at The Paddock at Ulupna, a picturesque retreat on 180 acres of beautiful Australian bushland. Just a short walk from Cactus Country, this is definitely the closest option. If the Paddock is booked you can also opt to do a glamping tent at the Paddock!
Average Timeline for a Summer Wedding at Cactus Country
Here’s an outline of the typical timeline for a summer wedding at Cactus Country:
1:40pm-3:10pm: Getting ready for the bride
3:20pm-4:20pm: Getting ready for the groom
4:30pm-5:30pm: First look and Portraits
5:40pm-6pm: Travel to Cactus Country
6:15pm-6:45pm: Ceremony / Confetti / Champagne Pop
6:45pm-7pm: Hugs and Kisses
7pm-7:30pm: Family photos
7:30pm-8:30pm: Sunset photos (Start at the Blue Trail and I personally like to go through the gardens in one direction rather then back and forth, as its quite extensive and you will get tired going back and forth. This leads us to finish at the front of the venue under the festoon lights)
8:30pm-11:30pm: Drinks, Dinner and Dancing
Side note: Reception at Cactus Country can be a little touch and go – so prepare ahead and preload google maps and save emergency numbers of your photographer, celebrant, etc in your phone just incase! If you’re through Telstra you should be fine, but anyone else – you will have problems.
Why Book Me as Your Wedding Photographer?
As an expert at Cactus Country having shot multiple weddings and elopements here, I know the venue inside out and can help you create unforgettable memories. With my knowledge of the property and its hidden gems, I’ll ensure that your photos capture the essence of this enchanting location. Plus, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Julie and John, the owners of Cactus Country, multiple times, and who have become good friends of mine, who will provide you with exceptional service and support throughout your wedding planning journey.
Spotted: To the far right Julie (the owner and a dear friend of mine)
Book Me as Your Wedding Photographer
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to capture your special day at Cactus Country. As your trusted wedding photographer, I’ll work closely with you to create a customised wedding package that suits your style and preferences. Contact me today to schedule a call and let’s start planning your dream wedding at this gorgeous venue! If you’re interested in seeing more of my work at Cactus Country, head to my website galleries to check them out! But all these images used throughout this blog are my own!
