A central location in the middle of town is always a safe bet. The only thing that people usually moan about is parking, but in terms of getting people in and out of town being close by to some of the best hotels Sydney has to offer, plus being able to easily hitch a ride in a cab makes things so easy all round. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) situated perfectly at Circular Quay has a number of spaces which make this venue a versatile option for couples planning a wedding. Three of our favorite’s are The Foundation Hall, The Harbourside Room and The Quayside Room.
As far as pairings for a ceremony location, you can choose from a number of churches within walking distance, and of course for a civil service – Hickson Road Reserve and the Royal Botanic Gardens are close by. There are also a number of indoor non denominational spaces that we can suggest for couples wanting to play it safe with the weather. If you wanted to be more adventurous this venue also makes the ideal location if you are considering using water transport between your ceremony and the reception with a wharf situated right by the front doors. That then gives you more choice for a ceremony location – you might even like to get married on one of Sydney’s islands!
Events at the Foundation Hall are currently serviced by the dedicated catering team of Culinary Edge Catering, and there is grandiose air about the art deco ballroom. Guests using this space can be treated to pre-function drinks and canapes in the outdoor space which is usually occupied by Graze cafe. The view from the cafe is incredible with a direct Opera House aspect and the buzz of people walking along the foreshore.
The Harbourside and the Quayside Room are in stark contrast to the Foundation Hall. With a much more contemporary feel, the Harbourside and Quayside Room are located on the top floor of the building. Harbourside with a magnificent view of the Opera House and Bridge and Quayside with lovely (but obstructed) harbour views. Both of these spaces are serviced by the team from Fresh Catering.
If you are looking for a blank canvas venue, then all 3 of these venues fit the bill. Being empty spaces (until just prior to your event when the tables go down) they do take a lot more forward planning and organisation. This makes it great if you are thinking of doing something difference with the seating configuration, or wanting to do something as elaborate as a ceiling installation. Being very familiar with the space we love to help couples plan their MCA events, and would love to hear from you if you for any of your coordination, wedding planning or wedding styling requirements.
Take a look at some of our inspiration shots below on events that we have worked at in the past at MCA. You might also find some more of our resources helpful:
- How do I know if I need a wedding day coordinator
- What does a wedding planner do
- How to work with wedding caterers
- How to write your wedding day runsheet
- Hacks on sourcing a unique wedding venue
The one thing you’d least expect on the roof of the MCA. Gelato Messina. Image Lara Hotz.
The view from the Harbourside Room does not disappoint. Image Lara Hotz.
The warm welcome as guests arrive to the Harbourside Terrace. Image Lara Hotz.
Contemporary ceiling installations over the bridal table at the Harbourside room at the MCA. Image Lara Hotz.
Striking centrepieces at the Harbourside Room, MCA. Image Lara Hotz.
Here are my friends again, Grandiflora showing off their phalaenopsis prowess. Image Lara Hotz.
Because every party doesn’t start until the bar opens. And what a lovely one it is at the Foundation Hall! Image Robert Meredith.
Sammy and Lola, always showing off with their marquee lighting. Image Robert Meredith.
Anna and Mark had chosen an acrylic table for their bridal party in the Foundation Hall to make their centrepieces pop. Image Robert Meredith.
Tall centrepieces in the Foundation Hall the most fitting choice with such impressive ceiling heights. Image Robert Meredith.
Anna and Mark had sourced stunning silver dining place mats for the bridal party offset against the acrylic dining table. Image Robert Meredith.
Always so wonderfully elegant. The phalaenopsis orchid. Image Robert Meredith.
