Top 10 Wedding Venues in Gauteng: A Photographer’s Whimsical Guide to Magical Locations.
Hey, lovebirds and wedding dreamers! As a quirky, fun-loving wedding photographer with a serious eye for art and storytelling, I’ve had the honor of shooting at some of Gauteng’s most stunning venues. Like any film, the setting of where you choose to have your love story unfold is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your wedding day… So let me whisk you away on a journey through my Top 10 favorite wedding venues in Gauteng, each a masterpiece in its own right. These are the places where love comes to life, memories are made, and your wedding album gets that WOW factor. So lets jump straight into all the favourite images I’ve taken at each epic venue…
1. Shepstone Gardens – Enchanted Elegance in Johannesburg
This venue is the Beyoncé of wedding spots—stunning, iconic, and utterly unforgettable. From its Glass Marquee to the romantic stone Sky Lounge and lush gardens, every corner is a photographer’s dream especially the Great Hall displaying the utmost in opulence. Whether you’re hosting an intimate soirée or a 300-guest gala, Shepstone Gardens and the Great Hall delivers magic in spades.
For couples dreaming of an elegant fairytale setting, Shepstone Gardens delivers a venue steeped in romance and history. Whether you’re envisioning an opulent celebration or an intimate gathering, their team ensures every detail is tailored to your love story. From the moment you walk down the aisle to your last dance under the stars, this venue will make your wedding absolutely unforgettable.
CHECK OUT A RECENT VIDEO WE’VE DONE AT THIS VENUE - HERE
Contact Information
• Address: 12 Hope Road, Mountain View, Johannesburg, 2192
• Phone: +27 11 648 9646
• Email: info@shepstonegardens.co.za
• Website: Shepstone Gardens
2. Inimitable – Where Luxury and Love Meet
This Muldersdrift venue is like stepping into a modern-day fairy tale. Think sleek architecture, cascading water features, and an ethereal Glass Chapel that’s perfect for saying, to most chic “I do’s.” The team here works wonders that scream luxury wedding heaven.
Inimitable balances modern luxury with natural elegance. Imagine a fairytale ceremony under a canopy of trees, transitioning seamlessly to a chic riverside reception. Their service packages make every detail effortless and dazzling. And Chef Andrew creates absolute gastronomical miracles.
If this venue speaks to your whimsical soul, book a viewing and secure your dream date!
CHECK OUT A RECENT VIDEO WE’VE DONE AT THIS VENUE - HERE
Contact information
Where: Muldersdrift, 21 Riverside Road
Contact: info@inimitablevenue.com | 063-697-9096
Website: Inimitable Venue
3. Red Ivory Lodge – The Wild at Heart
Looking for breathtaking views? Red Ivory Lodge in Hartbeespoort offers vistas that’ll make your guests swoon. With spaces like the Open Chapel, it’s a dream for boho-chic brides and couples wanting something out of the ordinary. Trust me, your wedding album here will be nothing short of iconic.
Nestled high on the slopes of the Magaliesberg, Red Ivory Lodge offers an enchanting blend of contemporary design and breathtaking natural beauty. Overlooking the Hartbeespoort Dam, this venue is perfect for couples seeking a dramatic yet elegant setting for their special day.
Red Ivory Lodge combines luxury, romance, and dramatic landscapes, making it a perfect choice for couples who want to wow their guests while creating unforgettable memories. With its top-notch event planning team and photogenic surroundings, your wedding is in good hands.
Contact Information:
• Email: info@redivory.net
• Phone: +27 12 940 2110
4. Lace on Timber – Rustic Romance
For couples who adore that rustic-chic vibe, Lace on Timber is pure Pinterest perfection. Its industrial-inspired spaces with soft, romantic touches are a visual treat. And the natural light? Chef’s kiss! If you’re after a cozy, stylish affair, this is your jam.
Nestled on the outskirts of Pretoria in Cullinan, Lace on Timber is an award-winning venue that combines industrial chic with romantic allure. This venue is ideal for couples who dream of a wedding set against a backdrop of lush forests and contemporary French-inspired design.
Lace on Timber is perfect for couples who love a balance of nature and modernity. Its industrial yet warm ambiance offers a truly unique setting for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions. Whether you’re swooning over their charming forest views or dancing under their industrial-chic chandeliers, this venue is AMAZING!!
CHECK OUT A RECENT VIDEO WE’VE DONE AT THIS VENUE - HERE
Contact information:
• Phone: +27 83 843 8118
• Email: info@laceontimber.com
• Website: Lace on Timber
5. Four Seasons Westcliff – Luxe City Glam
Perched in the urban forest of Johannesburg, this venue oozes luxury. Picture sweeping city views, lush gardens, and impeccable service. It’s perfect for couples wanting a sophisticated affair with plenty of spots for those chic, Vogue-style wedding portraits.
Nestled on a historical hillside, this luxury venue offers unmatched sophistication paired with sweeping views of Johannesburg’s lush urban canopy. The Four Seasons Westcliff provides a range of indoor and outdoor spaces, from elegant ballrooms to picturesque garden settings, perfect for weddings with a touch of grandeur and whimsy.
From the charming Rose Garden to the opulent Arcadia Ballroom, the Four Seasons Westcliff truly offers an elevated experience for couples looking to celebrate their big day in style .
Contact Information:
• Phone: +27 (0) 11 481 6000
• Email: reservations.johannesburg@fourseasons.com
• Website: Four Seasons Westcliff
6. White Light – Countryside Bliss
Tucked (not so far) away in Lanseria, White Light is minimalist elegance at its finest. This venue’s airy spaces, surrounded by greenery, make for dreamy wedding backdrops. It’s perfect for intimate weddings that focus on love, light, and laughter.
Nestled in the serene countryside of Lanseria, White Light offers a beautifully rustic yet modern wedding venue that’s perfect for couples looking to infuse their celebration with a touch of elegance and charm. Operated by The Forum Company, this venue is known for its exceptional service, gourmet catering, and expert coordination.
White Light perfectly combines the rustic charm of a countryside retreat with the sophistication of a modern venue. Whether you dream of an outdoor ceremony under a highveld sky or an elegantly styled indoor affair, this venue promises a magical experience for you and your guests.
Contact Details
• Address: Pelindaba Road, Nietgedacht, Johannesburg
• Phone: +27 (0)71 801 7109
• Website: White Light Venue
Geez, these photos are AMAZING! How do I book you for my wedding?
7. Avianto – Storybook Magic
Set in Muldersdrift, Avianto feels like stepping into a European village. Think cobblestone walkways, lavender gardens, and romantic stone buildings. This venue is all about timeless beauty, making it a top pick for classic weddings with a touch of whimsy.
Located amidst lush gardens and alongside the Crocodile River, Avianto offers a magical retreat that combines European elegance with South African charm. Found in Muldersdrift, just a short drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, this venue is an all-in-one haven for unforgettable weddings.
Avianto offers personalized packages, including the option to get an online wedding estimate for tailored pricing. Prices vary based on the season and guest count. Winter weddings, for example, come with special offers. For smaller weddings, the Fireside Room provides a cost-effective yet charming setting
Whether you’re envisioning a grand ballroom gala or an intimate garden ceremony, Avianto has everything you need for your dream day.
Contact Information
• Address: Plot 69, R114 Driefontein Road, Muldersdrift, 1747
• Email: info@avianto.co.za
• Phone: +27 11 668 3000
• Website: www.avianto.co.za
8. Ground the Venue – Rustic Meets Modern
Ground, located near the Cradle of Humankind, is an absolute gem. Whether you’re saying your vows in their chapel or partying under the stars in the Tobacco Shed, every detail here feels like a love letter to nature. A wedding here is both relaxed and stylish, with endless photo ops.
Nestled in the tranquil countryside of Muldersdrift, near the Cradle of Humankind, Ground the Venue is a stunning fusion of natural beauty and timeless charm. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding or a grand celebration, this venue offers versatile spaces and unforgettable experiences.
Ground offers a magical canvas for couples looking to celebrate their love in a venue steeped in elegance and natural splendor.
Contact & Booking
Phone: +27 (0) 63 296 2274
Email: Info@projectground.co.za
Website: Ground the Venue
9. Rosemary Hill
Surrounded by lush greenery and kissed by golden sunlight, Rosemary Hill is the dreamiest canvas for your love story. Whether it’s their iconic labyrinth gardens, rustic chic vibes, or that unbeatable touch of nature, this venue guarantees unforgettable memories—and stunning photos, of course! With my artistic eye and their enchanting backdrop, we’ll capture magic together. Let’s make Rosemary Hill your love story’s perfect stage.
With the Living Chapel’s unmatched beauty and the Brewery’s unique charm, this venue has something for every couple. Let’s create art out of your love story at Rosemary Hill.
Contact Information
Phone: +27 82 456 7890
Email: info@rosemaryhill.co.za
Website: rosemaryhill.co.za
10. Cradle Valley Guest House - Where Rustic Charm Meets Romance
Cradle Valley is a whimsical blend of rustic elegance and serene landscapes, set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery. It’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into a romance novel—complete with a happy ending!
The wide-open spaces are a dream for golden hour shots. Imagine the sun setting over the hills, bathing the couple in warm, dreamy light. Cue the swoon-worthy lens flare! The tranquil dam offers the perfect setting for artistic reflections. Their beautifully manicured gardens are sprinkled with cozy nooks that are perfect for intimate couple portraits or fun bridal party candids. Think soft florals and playful vibes!
Cradle Valley is more than just a venue—it’s an experience. From the cozy yet luxurious accommodations to the thoughtful touches that make every corner photogenic, it’s a playground for couples who want their love story captured in an unforgettable way.
Contact Information:
Address: 12 Kromdraai Road (R374), Zwartkop, Muldersdrift, Gauteng, South Africa
Phone: +27 82 316 1901
Email: weddings@cradlevalley.co.za or info@cradlevalley.co.za
For more information, you can visit their official website
BONUS - I just couldn’t resist!
11. Victoria Yards – Artistic and Eclectic
Although not actually a wedding venue…This urban oasis in Johannesburg is a photographer’s playground. With its industrial vibes, artistic murals, and lush greenery, Victoria Yards is perfect for couples looking to blend creativity with romance. Add in their community-driven ethos, and you’ve got a wedding that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful.
Victoria Yards prides itself on adaptability, offering tailored pricing based on your event size and specific needs. You can bring in your preferred vendors or work with the venue’s recommendations to create a bespoke experience. Services include assistance with logistics like music, sound, and catering to ensure a seamless event .
If you’re a couple who values artistry, individuality, and a touch of urban edge, Victoria Yards will make your special day truly unforgettable. It’s not just a venue—it’s a canvas for your unique love story. For more details, visit their events page.
Contact Details
• Address: 16 Viljoen Street, Johannesburg, GP, 2094
• Phone: +27 10 594 5210
• Email: hello@vicyards.co.za
• Website: Victoria Yards
Why These Venues Are My Faves
As someone who’s captured countless “I do” moments, I can confidently say these venues are not just backdrops—they’re characters in your love story. Each offers unique opportunities for stunning photography, whether it’s golden hour in the gardens, a dramatic kiss in the Glass Chapel, or a confetti toss under the stars.
Let’s Create Some Magic Together
Your wedding deserves the best, and so do your photos. I’m here to help you make memories that last forever.
From capturing every tear of joy to crafting jaw-dropping portraits, I’ll ensure your wedding album is as breathtaking as the day itself.