Earlier in the week Annabelle and I attended a Merivale promotion in Sydney. Some of the city's most renown venues are part of the Merivale stable - the first being Establishment, centrally located in the heart of the city on George Street. Together with other members of the press and bridal industry, we met in the Main Bar that had been completely transformed with settings of sweetpeas, mirrors and crystal to show us how lovely this area could look when set for a wedding. The high, ornate ceilings and imposing marble bar were definitely features of this room.
They can handle every detail from flowers, stationery to cake meaning you can leave everything in their capable hands.
Next we were taken to EST., the impressive award-winning restaurant on the 2nd floor. This area seats around 130 guests and is tastefully neutral meaning most colour schemes will look fantastic here. The restaurant was adorned with simple vases of orchids which worked beautifully here. I thought it was a very sophisticated space.
A feature of this area is the use of a special 'bridal party room' where the group can sneak away to relax or preen before or during the night.
After a short walk in the glorious Sydney sunshine, we arrived at Ivy, a little further up George Street. Wow, what a place. The first area we were shown is specifically set up for weddings - the Sunroom. There is a guest welcoming area, bright and sophisticated in its green palette.
The seated area of the Sunroom is spectacular. It's large windows overlook the bars on the lower levels enticing guests to party on after the reception. This room was set up with a striking black and white theme. Large vases of gypsophila were simple but very effective.
The Ballroom was the next stop. Huge is the best way to describe it. The super-sized zebra-striped carpet offset the enormous modern, white chandeliers. This area has a 60 person balcony overlooking the busy city streets, perfect for guests to sneak a breath of fresh air during the reception.
The highlight of the trip was our next step - drinks and delicious canapés poolside at the Pool Club next to Uccello. Having left Adelaide at 4am, pitch black, bucketing down with winter rain, it was heaven to arrive at this sunshine-filled oasis. This area is just so hip - my handy-snaps really don't do it justice. It felt it a bit 'Rat-Pack' with retro furniture and relaxing private cabanas. Surrounded by the tall city buildings, I can only imagine how magical this place would look at night, with guests milling around the pool, drink in hand, enjoying the views.
We were also shown the Penthouse, where the couple can stay on their first night - just stunning. We had a fabulous time and thoroughly enjoyed our tour of these magical settings. Really something to accommodate all tastes and so centrally located for interstate and international guests. Do visit the Merivale website - it is full of information and beautiful photos of all of the venues under their umbrella.
I'll leave you with a pic of Annabelle enjoying a juice (yes, we refrained!) poolside.
Posted by Jane Cameron
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