Category: Inspiration

Categories
Design & decor

Two-colour combinations for the living room

Repainting your walls is a surefire way to refresh your home, even without redecorating. If you plan to refresh your space, explore a modern two-colour combination for your living room walls, from a neutral monochromatic palette and complementary shades to adventurous bright shades and bold hues. 

You’ll spend time with these colours for years to come, so they should feel right to you as a homeowner. In this blog post, we’ll go through 11 two-colour combination ideas to consider for your next living room redesign.

11 two-colour combinations for your living room

1. Keep it cosy with warm beige and brown

Beige and brown living room with open space / Source: iStock

Who said a neutral colour palette had to be boring? If you already have beige walls, this colour combination is a good jumping-off point. Go for a pop of brown paint on an accent wall or trimmings. Then, add some brown furniture and a pop of white decor. Your beige, brown and white living room will still feel familiar but definitely elevated. 

2. Jazz it up with a monochromatic colour combination

You don’t need to go wild with your new two-colour living room. A monochromatic palette means all you need to do is choose a shade lighter or darker than your current colour, then experiment with it on your ceiling, trim, or accent wall. Some colour combinations you could consider are light pink and fuschia, pastel yellow and cream, or sky blue and navy blue.

Thinking of starting small with just the trim or an accent wall? It’s best to assess if you can DIY the painting job or if you should leave the painting to the pros.

3. Relax your eyes with cream and green

Green is always easy on the eyes, and cream and green rooms give off an elegant and refreshing ambience. It introduces a tranquil vibe to a space–something you will love coming home to. 

Forest green, grass green, sage green and even olive green are great options to combine with a cream colour. If you like the idea of nature inside your house, you could get some indoor plants as part of your redecoration plans.

4. Go bold with black and white

Black and white living room with wood and grey tiling accents / Source: iStock

You can opt for all-black walls and a white ceiling for a classic touch or have just one black accent wall for a pop of colour. You can even emphasise the eye-catching contrast through your decor. 

5. Soften the room with pastels and white

Pastel pink and sky blue aren’t just for the nursery. Using this wall colour combination for your living room will add appeal and even a whimsical feel to your space. You could even add white furniture or decor to make the room bright and airy. 

6. Add a touch of luxe with metallics and white walls

Just the right shade of gold or silver can give your living room the extra pizazz it’s missing. And don’t worry; just because there’s metal doesn’t mean it has to be ornate and old-fashioned. This colour combination is a step up from white and neutrals and will impress your guests. 

7. Keep it crisp with navy blue and white

Living room with navy blue walls and white curtains / Source: iStock

Navy blue and white is a colour combination you can’t go wrong with. It’s classic, elegant, and perfect for a coastal vibe. You can start small and highlight blue walls, blue sofa, or blue curtains and white ceilings with off-white window treatments. 

8. Make it visually interesting with dark teal and blush pink

If pastels and muted colours aren’t your thing, consider the darker teal and pink shades. 

For instance, a dark teal wall can add a dramatic look to a living room, while a pink couch and decor items can soften the look and add a hint of brightness. Tie this colour combination with the right interior design elements, such as window treatments, an area rug, or wall art.

9. Go extra-colourful with tangerine and pink

Two bold and bright colours in one room can work! When done right, this wall colour combination or wall and furniture scheme will bring warmth and cheerfulness to your living room. Add some contemporary furniture, and your vibrant sitting area is all set.

10. Try warm grey and orange for an ultra-modern feel

Modern interior design with orange wall and grey accents / Source: iStock

Don’t knock this colour scheme until you’ve checked it out. When you find just the right shade of orange, you’ve got an out-of-the-box combination that’s stylish. 

You’d be surprised at how orange can bring warmth to your space and make it inviting without being garish and how grey becomes strikingly elegant. Not a fan of orange? Swap it out for brownish-orange hues blue.

11. Push the limit with purple and brown

Dark purple and brown is a colour combination that comes together surprisingly well. This is because brown is derived from yellow, which sits opposite purple on the colour wheel. Purple livens up neutral brown, while brown “grounds” the rather eclectic purple. If your living room has wood accents, this combo might be the one to try. 

Bring your vision to life with the right colour combination

Whether you go for a classic or modern two-colour combination for your living room, this paint job will have a big impact on your home’s ambience. As you choose a style and execute your painting plans, there are a lot of things to consider. Hiring a local painter can make the entire process easier for you.

FAQs on living room paint colour combinations

How do you pair colours in a living room?

Some ways to pair two colours are as follows:

  • Pairing complementary hues (e.g. blue and orange, purple and yellow)
  • Choosing shades and tints of one colour (e.g. a monochromatic palette)
  • Combining two warm tones or two cool tones (e.g. orange and brown, blue and green)
  • Pairing bold hues with a neutral colour (e.g. lime green and white, yellow and grey)
  • Pairing warmer tones with cooler tones (e.g. brown and blue)

To make your living room look its best, you’ll need an expert interior designer to guide you as you choose the right vibrant hues or neutrals that will work well together. It’s crucial that you understand the balance between shades and the effect each colour will have on your room before you have at it with a roller brush.

Do green and terracotta go together?

Yes, green and terracotta is a colour scheme that will work for a room. Together, they create an earthy, organic feel reminiscent of natural elements. You could even treat terracotta as neutral (like beige or brown) and combine it with pink, yellow, black, or brown hues.

What colours brighten a beige room?

Just about any colour combination can make a beige room bright! Add a touch of warmth with burnt orange or red; modernise the living room’s look with black or navy; or add a cheerful personality with sky blue. Beige is a neutral base that can anchor the look while letting you play around with small doses of bright colours.

Can you mix beige and white decor?

You can definitely mix beige and white decor. Clean white is great for balance and light, while beige adds the warmth necessary for a cosy living room. Colourful living room walls will definitely pop against this more neutral decorating colour scheme.

What colour of furniture goes well with cream living room walls?

Many colours pair well with cream, so it would depend on the other elements you’re working with. Hues of green, blue, red, grey, white, and even black will add some necessary colour to the neutral space of cream walls. You can also go for other neutrals and use brown wooden furniture. 

Categories
Doors & windows

Transform your doors with these door painting hacks

Whether you’re gearing up for a full-blown home renovation or simply looking to spruce up your living space, painting a door can work wonders for your home’s aesthetic appeal. However, it can be quite time-consuming, especially if it’s your first time giving your doors a new look.  

But don’t worry, there are several ways to simplify your door painting task! Read on to learn some smart painting tips and hacks that can help minimise errors in your DIY project. 

8 door painting hacks and tips for your DIY project 

1.  Leave the door on the hinges

Metal chrome hinged hinges on a white interior door / Source: iStock

When painting your door, there’s the risk of getting paint on your door’s trim, on the walls, ceilings, or floors. You don’t want this mishap, especially if you’re painting your front door.

TikTok DIY expert DIY With Emma offers a smart hack that suggests using a plastic folder to keep paint from going where it shouldn’t. Hold the folder along your door’s top and bottom edges while painting across them. With this painting doors and trims hack, you can leave the door on its hinges and paint the door without messing up the edges that fit into the frame. 

2. Get your prep work ahead of time

Before you start your project, do some prep work in advance. Cover the hinges and remove door knobs to protect them from paint.

Once you’re done with the hinges, smooth out any lumps on the door’s surface by sanding them. Additionally, have some shims ready to ensure the door stays securely in place. Shims are handy little pieces that help fill gaps or spaces. Doing these preparations ensures a hassle-free process and favourable results when painting doors.

3. Sand and prime for a smoother paint finish

Start off with clean doors before painting to avoid dust and hair messing up your paint job and guarantee a smoother paint finish. Lightly sand the door with 220-grit sandpaper between paint layers to remove dust or drips. 

Moreover, select the right type of primer and paint for the task. Satin or semi-gloss paints are great at concealing uneven areas. Meanwhile, a high-gloss paint finish gives the most shine but requires tedious preparation and takes longer to dry. 

4. Use paint rollers and brushes for a specific purpose

Painter painting a door with brush / Source: iStock

When it comes to painting different types of doors, it’s essential to know when and how to use paint rollers and brushes. Use a roller that holds lots of paint for efficiency and if you want to achieve a smooth surface. Opt for an angle brush for those tricky edges to get precise coverage. 

Remember, start with minimal paint on the roller, focus on the edges first, and then smoothly paint the rest of the door. 

5. Avoid rolling in one direction only

Work in sections of about five to six square feet to avoid leaving marks on your ceiling while painting your door. Move quickly from one section to the next so the paint along the edge doesn’t dry before you can roll the adjoining area. 

Don’t forget to roll each section at a right angle to your initial roller direction. It might seem like extra effort, but it will help you get that flawless finish you want on your door.

6. Double-check your chosen paint sheen 

Label the paint cans to avoid mixing them up, especially if using different sheens of the same colour. The same goes for painting a two-toned front door or other doors that require different paint sheens. Such attention to detail will ensure your painting project turns out beautifully without the unnecessary hassle.

Consider the sheen if you’re wondering what type of paint for internal doors is best. Avoid high-sheen paints if you’re working on textured or rough surfaces, as they’ll highlight imperfections. If you opt for a semi-gloss or gloss sheen, ensure your surface is smooth and well-prepared. 

7. Prevent paint drips with a drop cloth or rosin paper 

Paint roller and white paint over plastic drop cloth / Source: iStock

Paint drips are common when painting vertically, especially when painting glass panels on doors, since it’s more difficult for the paint to adhere to the surface. 

To quickly solve this problem, lay down a drop cloth or some rosin paper. It’s like giving your painting project a landing pad for any paint drops. This trick will save you from unwanted mess and make the painting task more efficient.

8. Consider weather conditions when painting

When painting an exterior door or any other door, consider your local climate since extreme temperatures can affect the final paint finish. 

If you live in a cold area, bring latex or acrylic paint and caulk indoors before it gets too chilly, as cold weather can cause cloudy or blotchy paint results. Avoid painting when it’s freezing outside, as the paint won’t dry properly and can easily peel off. 

On one side, extreme heat and humidity can also modify the paint finish, and the paint tends to dry rapidly, leading to uneven coverage, bubbling, or peeling. As much as possible, try to plan your painting when the weather is moderate and avoid direct sunlight if you can. This way, you’ll achieve a more accurate and lasting finish.

Additional door painting tips

To help you avoid mistakes on your next paint job, here are some more helpful door painting tips:

  • Choose your paint colour carefully: If possible, request a small sample from the store to test on your wall in various lighting conditions before buying a can or gallon and trying it out on your door. This way, you can ensure it’s the right shade for your space, saving you from extra trips to the paint store.
  • Use a smaller painting tool for panelled doors: Painting a panelled door can be tricky because of its interior details and various surfaces that can highlight imperfections. As a workaround, use a small foam or synthetic brush to carefully paint the edges, switches, sockets, or other intricate areas.
  • Keep your paint cans covered: Putting the paint can lid back on immediately can prevent messy accidents and keep the paint clean. It also prevents dried residue and mix-ups with similar-coloured lids.
  • Ensure your work area is well-lit: Avoid painting interior surfaces in dim light, as it can result in imperfections that become visible when the room is well-lit. To ensure a smooth finish, ensure all your lights are on when painting, especially indoors.

Have fun painting your doors

Giving your doors a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to update your home. With the simple hacks and tips above, you can confidently do the task and achieve a professional-looking finish that will last for years to come. But if you do need expert help, you can always call a professional painter to help you out! 

FAQs on painting doors

What is the easiest way to paint a door?

Whether you’re painting a new door or concealing strong paint colour, you can follow these steps as a guide:

  • Start by applying a primer. Don’t forget to prime any specific spots that need filling. 
  • Grab a good-quality paintbrush or roller to apply even coats. 
  • Get a plastic folder to insert along the edges to avoid painting the door frame so you don’t have to detach the door. 
  • Let the paint dry before applying another coat for a durable finish. 

How do you paint a door smoothly and perfectly?

For a flawless door painting job, you should first clean, prep, and prime the surface. Then, choose the appropriate paint for your door and use paint rollers and brushes to avoid visible lines. 

If you’re keeping the door on its hinges, paint the trim first to prevent accidental smudges on the fresh coat. Lastly, apply at least two coats of paint for an even and smooth coverage, and let the door dry overnight before installing it or adding hardware. 

What is the easiest way to paint interior doors?

The simplest way to paint your interior door is by keeping it right in its frame and hanging on its hinges. Another benefit of not detaching the door before painting is that you can paint both sides simultaneously, making the job even easier. 

Is it easier to paint a door with a brush or roller?

Whether to use a brush or a roller to paint your door depends on your painting experience. If you’re a pro, using a brush can make it easier. On one hand, foam rollers can help you easily get that smoother, drip-free finish.

Can I paint the door hinges?

Yes, as long as you use a specialised paint and prepare the hinges before painting them. Otherwise, you might damage the hinges, or the paint might just peel off over time. 

Categories
Design & decor

Create a dramatic living room with a dark colour palette

While it’s common for homeowners to gravitate towards light and airy shades when decorating their living spaces, dark and cosy living rooms can infuse your space with a dramatic ambience. If you’re stumped on potential colour palettes for your living room space, keep scrolling!

In this guide, we’ll share some dark and cosy colour ideas for your living room and how dark-themed spaces can redefine your home’s atmosphere.

12 Dark and cosy colour ideas for the living room 

1. Elegant charcoal

Modern house interior with charcoal walls / Source: iStock

Black or charcoal are versatile colours that fit traditional and modern styles. Deep charcoal walls evoke a sense of sophistication and add drama and warmth to any living space. 

Charcoal walls create an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding and chatting. Just be sure to balance the darkness with plenty of light and cosy furnishings like plush sofas and warm textiles.

2. Get moody with navy

Navy blue is a rich shade that gives off a calm and serene ambience. This colour goes well with many colour themes and interior styles. Pair it with bright and muted shades, such as yellow and pink, and see the colours pop. 

Navy hues are easy to pair with other colours and can transcend trends. It can be a neutral shade that’s a lasting choice for your living room.

3. Enchanting dark greens

Luxurious interior with dark green walls / Source: iStock

Dark greens should be on your dark, cosy living room ideas inspiration board. These earthy shades bring calm and balance to your home, regardless of size.

These hues also give off the illusion that you’re connected to the outdoors. Combine it with neutral shades like cream and earthy tones, and you can create a warm and soothing space with it. It creates a warm climate when relaxing or hosting get-togethers with friends. 

4. Cosy shades of grey

Chic slate grey as the primary colour is a good option for modern living room ideas. Its timeless elegance, versatility in decorating style, and balanced contrast make it a perfect choice for those seeking elevated style and comfort. 

Greys provide a great backdrop that works seamlessly with different accent colours and furniture pieces. Use this to your advantage, and you can achieve a space that’s contemporary and inviting at the same time.

5. Get in the magic with midnight blue

Living room with sofa on an empty midnight blue wall background / Source: iStock

Painting your dark-themed living room midnight blue evokes luxury and moody allure. The colour works well for both dark and light wallpapers or furniture pieces, so it’s a versatile choice for a colour scheme. 

It’s easy to pair this shade in a living room with complementary dark or neutral shades and tones. Deep charcoal greys, matte blacks, and rich browns can serve as grounding elements, preventing the space from feeling overly heavy.

6. Feel like royalty with burgundy

This deep reddish-brown colour is an interesting choice when you decide to go for a dark-themed living room. It creates a moody space, and its deep and rich character adds a touch of luxury to a room.

Despite its boldness, burgundy pairs beautifully with a range of colours, from neutrals like beige, ivory, and grey to shades like blue and teal. Burgundy lets you create a colour palette that feels modern and cosy at the same time.

7. Elegant greys and eggshells

Monochromatic grey living room / Source: iStock

Eggshell tones and greys are refined yet not overpowering colours; it’s an adaptable, versatile colour that can work with most colour schemes. 

Both colour schemes serve as versatile backdrops for various decor styles. These hues help create a balanced palette that’s visually pleasing, and they work great with dark colours like deep blue, charcoal, or black, as well as neutral colours to build an airy and comforting ambience. 

8. Try out bold and charming crimson colours

If you’re thinking about a living area with deep red colours, try adding crimson into the space. Bold and attention-grabbing, this colour instantly injects chic modernity into your living space.

Crimson furniture pieces go along well with other colours and materials. They also work with neutral or darker tones like beige, grey, or white. Alternatively, you can create captivating contrasts by pairing crimson with deeper hues like navy blue or charcoal grey.

9. Dramatic brown for the perfect backdrop

Cosy living room with terracotta walls / Source: iStock

Brown, with its earthy tones, is the ultimate colour for those looking for natural warmth in their living room. Whether you choose light or dark brown shades, they bring a homey air to the room that stands the test of time.

The colour serves as a neutral foundation that allows for versatile decor and styling. Whether you prefer minimalist, rustic, or contemporary designs, brown brings a relaxing aura that adapts to your personal taste.

10. Play with ombre

Ombre walls in a dark-themed apartment can be a stunning and creative way to add depth, drama, and interest to your space. 

Opt to use the ombre technique on a feature wall. Start with a deep, dark colour at the bottom and gradually transition to a lighter shade towards the top to create a striking focal point.

You can also use furniture pieces that incorporate ombre in their design for visual interest. But if you insist on painting your walls ombre, you can paint it yourself or consult a painter.

11. Add warmth with deep gold hues

Dark-themed interior with gold accents / Source: iStock

Deep gold hues are opulent and timeless additions to a living space, perfect if you want to create a refined home with a gold touch. These can add a touch of glamour to the space without overwhelming it. You can use gold hue accents for furnishings or pieces that reflect light, such as throw pillows, curtains, or area rugs. 

12. Metallic copper comfort

Metallic copper colours create contrast, especially if it’s partnered with dark greys, blacks, greens, blues, plums, or brown backdrops. The metallic finish of copper brings sophistication to your nest. You can display this through various decor elements, such as lighting fixtures, coffee tables, or decorative accents, to infuse the space with a sense of opulence.

Embracing the dark side

The beauty and allure of dark interiors cannot be overstated. They can create atmospheres as inviting as lighter colours and hues in many ways. With their dark hue, rich warmth, and wide depth spectrum, the interior style possibilities they bring to the table are endless. 

Are you renovating your home or planning to do it in the future? Consider hiring a professional painter or interior designer to consult and do the work for you. With their expertise, they can bring your dark-themed living space to life! 

FAQs on dark colours for the living room

Is dark colour good for the living room?

Dark colours can be an excellent choice to add style and sophistication to a living room. Choosing the right dark shade depends on your preferences, the size and lighting of the room, and the atmosphere you want to create.

How do I make a living room cosy?

To make your living room cosy, focus on warm colours, comfortable seating, and layered textures. Use soft lighting, incorporate plants, and place throws and pillows to establish the mood for comfort. 

How to decorate a living room with dark walls?

You can achieve a balanced and inviting ambience by juxtaposing dark hues with light-coloured furniture and utilising layered lighting for a warm atmosphere. Use contrasting accessories and vibrant decor to create visual interest, and strategically place mirrors to reflect light and enhance spaciousness. 

If you’re unsure how to style a dark-themed space, consult an interior designer for expert advice. 

Categories
Wellbeing

5 Valentine’s Day gift ideas they’ll love

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your loved one how much you care. This year, why not take the opportunity to surprise your partner with a thoughtful and practical gift that you’ll both enjoy? Make this Valentine’s Day memorable with these seven home improvement ideas.

A clean and tidy home 

Nothing says “I love you” like a clean and decluttered home. Your loved one will appreciate the effort put into making their living space clean, comfortable, and organised.

Fresh walls 

Bring new life to any room with a fresh coat of paint. Choose your partner’s favourite colour or a neutral hue that matches their style. A fun wallpaper might be better if they prefer some bold prints. Here are some tips on how to install your own wallpaper.

Best painters near you

Kitchen upgrade 

Kitchens are the heart of a home, and a small upgrade can make a big difference. Whether it’s new tiles, a new countertop, or even a new kettle, you and your partner will appreciate these improvements. Want to renovate your kitchen? Here’s how you can start.

Garden makeover

If your partner is passionate about gardening, consider giving them a beautiful outdoor space. Hire a professional landscaper to design and create a lush and vibrant garden that they can enjoy all year round.

Home office makeover

With more and more people working from home, a dedicated home office is a must-have. You could declutter, re-organise, clean and even buy new gear to make them more comfortable working from home.

Give the gift of a clean and comfortable home this Valentine’s Day. Surprise your partner by doing these projects yourself or hire a professional to help.

Categories
Design & technology

Tips on how to optimise your professional website

When used properly, a professional services website can account for the majority of your income. Unfortunately, most businesses think of it as an afterthought that doesn’t help improve the bottom line.

That’s a mistake which you shouldn’t repeat. In this article, you’ll learn simple but effective ways to create a website that works as a powerful lead generation and acquisition channel for your business. Additionally, we take you through some easy steps you can take today in building a winning first impression.

Think about the look and feel

First impressions always count, so put your best foot forward with a professional, secure and fast-loading website full of content curated specifically for your target client. Take the opportunity here to differentiate yourself from your competitors and make it clear why you are the best business for the job. 

Inundated with questions? Set up an FAQ section

Nip the commonly asked questions in the bud by directly addressing them on your website. Assume your customer has zero knowledge of your services so use clear and concise language, and take the time to explain things coherently. Using keywords here is also a great opportunity to boost your Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) ranking!

Get straight to the point

By the time a customer has reached your website, they’ve potentially been on dozens of others researching. Make their journey to book or purchase as easy and seamless as possible. For example, consider adding in your unique selling points, telling your story and clearly displaying your contact details at the top of every page on your website. Businesses on the Oneflare platform use their Oneflare profile as the designated one-stop-shop for explaining who they are, what they do and offer, what people are saying about them and how to get in touch with them. 

Let customers know what your website is all about straight away / Source: M.R Design & Marketing

Content is king

If appropriate, use pictures and/or videos on your site, especially in the FAQ section. Rich media is fantastic for SEO and makes it easy for customers to understand what you do. Build trust from the get-go with some positive reviews and trust badges on your site.

Build content mapped to funnel stages

When people have challenges, they follow a series of steps before they settle on a specific provider. People often first research the problem, figure out the kinds of solutions available, take a look at the service providers, and finally choose one. There’s another step that most people miss – retention – which focuses on maximizing the results of a client or getting them to come back when another relevant problem arises.

For example, if someone’s roof is leaking, they’d first search online for causes. After finding several answers, they’ll look at multiple types of solutions such as DIY or hiring a contractor. Next, they’ll vet different contractors before finally settling on one.

Use your website content to lead people through every step of this process. With the example above, the kind of content they create may look like:

  • An infographic that explains the different reasons a roof may leak
  • A blog post that dives deep into the different ways you can stop a leaky roof
  • A comparison guide that shows how your service stacks up against the competition
  • Landing pages, targeted at different buyer personas, which detail how your service will help them solve the specific problem
  • Host a podcast or video tutorial that shares insights about how to maintain the roof going forward.

Once you’ve got all the pages set up, you may want to consider launching a local link building campaign to improve your search visibility. When it’s successful, you’ll be the first business that shows up when potential clients are looking for solutions to their problems.

Contact local web design experts

Clear and relatable social proof

The last piece of the puzzle is arguably the most important. Social proof has been proven time and again to improve conversions on almost any website.

It can be a case study, client testimonial, or even mentioning how many clients you’ve served in the past. Use the type of social proof that makes the most sense for you and supports a promise you’ve made on your landing page.

For example, if a plumber promises to get to a client’s house within 30 minutes for any plumbing issue, they would show social proof that supports that claim. Maybe a client called at 2:00 AM because of a burst pipe. A testimonial from them about how the plumber saved the day would be perfect.

Think about the biggest promises you’ve made and your value proposition then gather testimonials or even case studies that support it. Interested in learning more? Our Oneflare HQ industry leaders in sales, marketing and SEO recently discussed best practices, new technology and how to build trust with potential customers online.

Categories
Design & technology

9 contactless services to hire

Here we are again, seeing the effects of COVID-19 all over the country. Over the past year, the majority of us have spent a lot more time at home, seeing our houses transform into offices, schools, restaurants, gyms and more. With this shift, some Aussie’s are using this time to learn new skills, indulge in some long-standing hobbies and tick off long-overdue tasks. And let’s not forget the healthy dose of TV streaming of course. To give you some inspiration on some projects to embark on, we’ve rounded up the top 9 service categories we’re seeing an increase in jobs being posted over the last couple of weeks. 

1. Web Design & Graphic Design

With this time spent at home, often with a lighter workload, many are turning their attention to their “side hustle”, or in the case of the self-employed, their online presence. Physical stores and services have had to rapidly up their internet ante, and many are now are taking the opportunity to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into a reality. 

Whether you want to spend this time giving your existing online business a makeover, a new logo or start a new brand from scratch – you can find a web design expert or graphic designer on Oneflare. 

2. SEO & SEM

While we’re on the “side hustle” bandwagon, don’t forget about the powerhouse that is your Google ranking. Improving your ranking can be a time consuming and complex process, which is often why it’s left in the “too hard basket”. Since many are now finding themselves with more time on their hands – you can always give it a go yourself, or alternatively, find yourself a pro. 

3. Fencing

Another one of those long-forgotten house projects – fencing. It’s no surprise Aussies are starting to focus on ensuring their homes are safe, secure and homely – because we’re all spending a lot more time there. Sort out your own fence now with one of our experts, or read up on how much it should cost you with our cost guide.

4. Accounting & Bookeeping

We’ve noticed that over the last few weeks, many small businesses owners have (finally) had the time to take stock of their suppliers and ask if it’s the best deal they can get. No matter what industry you’re in, keeping a close eye on your balance books is important now as ever. If getting your money matters in order has been on your to-do list for a while, now is the time to tick it off.

5. Courier

It’s not really a surprise to find ‘courier’ on this list, considering so many of us are social distancing and staying home as much as we can. With many stores shutting their physical presences, and online shopping on the rise – not to mention food delivery services – it’s no surprise many are offering no-contact services to pick up and deliver goods. Did you know you can find a courier on Oneflare? 

6. Roofing

One of the most popular categories over the last few weeks has been “roofing” jobs. Whether you need urgent repairs before the next downpour or have some regular maintenance or enhancements in mind, these jobs are completed entirely on the exterior of your home. That means, you can successfully limit contact to almost nothing. 

Find your own roofing expert today, or brush up on how much it should cost with our roofing cost guide.  

7. Gardening & Landscaping

If all this extra time spent at home has given you cause to examine the trees and gardens around your home in a bit more detail – you’re not alone. Landscaping, gardening and arborist are some of the hottest categories on Oneflare right now. If you can’t really venture out into the great outdoors, you may as well ensure your own slice of paradise is looking lush. 

8. Car Painting

While this might sit as a low priority in your regular life, now is the time to tick off those to-do list tasks that would otherwise fall by the wayside. In fact, we’ve seen searches for car painters increase over the last few weeks and with our car respray cost guide being one of our most popular cost guides at the moment. 

9. Interior Designer

Has all this extra time spent at home realised how much you can’t stand your wall colour? Or that you actually want to completely start again in the kitchen? The good news is – many interior designers are offering remote consulting, so you can start creating your dream home from the comfort of your couch. Go on, hop on Pinterest today and get those inspirations flowing! 

Are you feeling inspired to tick off your to-do list? Post a job today, or show us your home projects on Instagram. 

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Resources

The ultimate wedding checklist

You’re got engaged. Congratulations!

Now comes the fun part…planning the big day itself. What you will soon come to realise is that planning a wedding requires a great deal of organisation, budget management, and logistical skills. All of which can be quite overwhelming but, with the right tools at hand, you can plan your wedding day with confidence and ease.

We have created an ultimate wedding organiser document to help you keep every detail of the wedding plan under control. We’ve included everything from a budget calculator, to-do checklist, guest list organiser, and on-the-day planner to help your big day run without a hitch.

Wedding ceremony / Source: Brook Amy Photography

Wedding budget calculator

The average cost of a wedding in Australia is around an eye-watering $45,000-$50,000. It is therefore important to work out the budget you realistically have available to be able to execute the wedding of your dreams. Our wedding budget splits the costs into 21 sections including the venue(s), hens and bucks parties, bridal preparation, flowers, catering, transport, wedding cake, photography, entertainment, transport and more.

Our handy budgeting spreadsheet includes a section for notes, estimates costs, actual costs, deposit paid, amount outstanding and due date of final payments. Allowing for full visibility and budget tracking. If you’ve overspent in one category you can always scale back costs in another, for example, if you’ve spent too much on your wedding dress, spend less on the flowers to compensate.

To-do checklist

The wedding to-do list is split into time-bound stages, based on level of priority to help you plan your upcoming nuptials with ease. From announcing your engagement to setting a budget and selecting a wedding venue, to arranging a wedding planner, to choosing the dress, and everything else in between this to-do should have you covered. The planning process is split into the following stages:

  • Post engagement announcement 
    • After the buzz of the engagement has worn off, it’s time to start planning. Sit down with your fiance and discuss what budget you have available, what style of wedding you both want, what date you have in mind, who you both want to be in the wedding party, and contact and visit potential venues.
  • 12-18 months before 
    • Once you have decided on the style of wedding you want, it’s time to arrange the services of a wedding planner. If you’re a busy full time working women or mother, hiring a wedding planner is a top piece of advice to take the stress out of the planning process. At this stage, it’s also a good idea to draw up your guest list for the ceremony and reception. Shopping for the all-important, show-stopping wedding dress should also begin now, as many brides can take a while to find their perfect match!
  • 6-10 months before 
    • At this stage, the highlights of planning your wedding include selecting the dress, choosing the wedding party attire, booking the honeymoon and arranging the hens’ and bucks’ parties. Along with contacting potential photographers and videographers, caterers, florists, transportation and booking the reception evening entertainment.
  • 3 months before
    • At the 3 month mark, it’s time to make initial contact with your preferred wedding hair stylist and wedding makeup artist. Choose your wedding cake, submit a gift list with the bridal registry, pick out the wedding rings and arrange a master of ceremonies
  • 2 months before
    • The one thing you can’t afford to forget to do before the wedding is to give notice of intent to marry the wedding official at least one full month and no more than six months in advance of your wedding date.
  • 6 weeks before
    •  The final countdown is on, and it’s confirmation time. Confirm all of the final details with your florist, ceremony and reception venue, entertainment (wedding band/DJ) and arrange for the wedding rehearsal.
  • 4 weeks before
    • With just one month to go arrange to have your hair and makeup trial, final wedding dress fitting and alterations (if necessary) and confirm arrangements with the wedding celebrant.
  • 1-2 weeks before 
    • The wedding is now just around the corner and it’s time to triple check all of the arrangements for the day. Confirm all wedding day appointments, double-check transportation and petrol, do wedding rehearsal, send a seating list to the reception venue and pack for your honeymoon

Contact local wedding planners

Guestlist organiser

The wedding planner sheet comes with an ‘Initial Guest List’ and ‘Final Guest List’. The Initial Guest List allows you to identify everyone that you would ideally like to invite to the wedding and to see if this is plausible with your available budget. If your guest list is too long you can remove people from the list before sending out official invitations. 

The Final Guest List helps you to track the date you sent the invitation, if the recipient has accepted or declined the invite, a notes section (i.e. do they have any special dietary requirements, children etc.), assigned table number, the gift they bought you and a column to record the date you sent a thank you card.

It’s now quite popular to use digital RSVP businesses like withjoy.com and blissandbone.com to set up invitations and RSVPs. Digitalising this process makes it easy to record and keep track of numbers as well as sharing information about the day. Not to mention it’s environmentally friendly!

Destination wedding / Source: Iclickyou

Wedding day schedule

The big day has finally arrived, the months of planning and preparation are over and it’s time to relax and enjoy one of the best days of your life. Make sure to have a stress free day by following our wedding day schedule, containing a list of timings and to-do’s before the ceremony, during the ceremony and at the reception.

Save some coin with DIY

We all know that planning a wedding can be stressful, time-consuming and costly but with a little DIY magic, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. DIY weddings are full of creativity and character whilst adding a homemade feel to your special day. Add an intimate touch to your wedding decorations, cut costs and take the stress out of your wedding with these simple DIY ideas.

Create a wedding landscape

  • A floral wall with simple greenery can substitute an expensive outdoor location and add a natural ambience to your wedding venue
  • Wooden lettering can be bought online and tied up with threads of twine or rope to create a centrepiece. Sayings like “we tied the knot or happily ever after”. Ropes are easily accessible, cost-friendly and the lettering can be the colour, font and size you choose.
  • Add a personal touch to your backdrop by attaching threads of ribbon or Polaroid memories of the lovely couple. This backdrop also doubles as a photo corner for guests to add to the photo collection.

Table settings 

Leaving an extravagant impression on your wedding guests doesn’t need to be costly. It is, after all, the small things that count. Invest in the detailing of your table centrepieces to wow your guests as they dine, wine and enjoy the evening. Here are a few ideas:

  • If you’re after a natural element, simple flower arrangements with complementing wooden bases can liven up the entire environment
  • Pick flowers, greenery or branches from your local area; ivy, eucalyptus and wattle grows wild all over Australia
  • Personalise your seating arrangements with something other than plain old name cards. Use personalised candles, wine glasses or even stubby holders 

These simple DIY additions are cost-efficient, creative and endearing. Ask your bridesmaids to join in on the decorating fun and take the stress out of your wedding. 

We hope that with this handy wedding planning tool you can embrace planning your wedding with minimal stress. If you keep calm and allow yourself enough time to follow the planning process, you will be able to create a beautiful and memorable day.

Check out our wedding blog, to find more wedding tips and tools. Oneflare can help you plan your wedding and find your perfect celebrants, florists, photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, wedding planners and wedding car hire.

Categories
Design & decor

How to wallpaper

Looking at your plain wall and feeling uninspired? With an unending variety of patterns, textures and designs, wallpaper is the perfect choice to revive a tired space. Wallpaper can instantly accentuate and enhance your interior space, but as we all know, our tastes and aesthetic preferences are prone to change. Wallpaper caters to our shifting tastes and with the availability of new products, applying and removing a design is easier than ever.

Picking the right wallpaper

Pattern, colour & texture

Make a statement with the right wallpaper design. The pattern and colour combination you choose will depend on the ambience you wish to create. Take into consideration the lighting in the room as this will influence the mood and can either complement or contradict the effect your wallpaper creates. Depending on the look you wish to create, textured wallpaper might be an option to enhance interest and dimension in a space. Here are some general rules to remember when adding wallpaper to a space:

  • Mini prints and cool colours can help a small space appear larger while large patterns can create visual interest but will make a space appear smaller and more intimate.
  • Large vertical patterns and vertical lines make a ceiling appear higher, whereas horizontal stripes make a room appear wider.
  • Textured wallpaper and fabric wall coverings create a three-dimensional effect
  • In large, empty and colder spaces, textured or fabric wallpaper can be particularly effective in exuding an inviting and homely look and feel
Bold, statement wallpaper / Source: Shutterstock

Materials

The wallpaper material you choose will also depend on the function of your room. For spaces prone to humidity and dampness, like the bathroom or kitchen, vinyl wallpaper is an ideal choice as it is durable and easily cleaned. 

Non-woven wallpaper is another popular option, becoming the wallpaper of choice as its blend of natural and synthetic fibres makes it easier to hang and remove. 

Wallpaper is not waterproof however, and it is best to avoid areas that will directly attract humidity.

How to wallpaper

Preparing for wallpaper

Preparation is a must for a successful wallpaper application, our walls need to be bare and as clean as possible.

  • Clear away any dirt or grime on your walls 
  • Fill any cracks or irregularities with a filler
  • Evaluate the space and decide where you will lay the seams of the paper
  • Identify the dominant wall in the room as this will give you an indication of where to start.
  • Clear out any furniture before applying

Applying the wallpaper

  1. Use a pencil and a level to mark a vertical line on the wall
  2. Check your line is straight using a plumb bob or level to double-check your line is straight
  3. Undo the protective wrapping of your paper and ensure the rolls contain the identical shade, pattern and batch reference number. 
  4. Ensure you have enough wallpaper by calculating the length x breadth of the wall but add an additional 10% for potential wastage or 15-20% if the wallpaper has a large pattern repeat
  5. Cut the first strip about 10 cm longer than the height of a wall and cut each following strip at least 5 cm longer than the first strip to keep the patterns aligned. It will be easier if you cut and layout each of the strips before applying the paper to ensure the patterns are correctly lined 
  6. Check the type of wallpaper 
    1. If it is adhesive-backed, it will require soaking in water before the adhesive is activated
    2. For paper without adhesive, a stiff brush, roller, utility knife, scissors, sponge and a bucket of water will be required to apply the wallpaper. Note: Ensure you always use the wallpaper paste recommended by the supplier
  7. Add the paste to a container of water until it gradually thickens.
  8. Ensure the paper doesn’t become too wet whilst applying the paste as it will shrink back when it dries. Allow enough time for the wallpaper to book (soaking in paste) and when you apply the paper, brush out any extra paste, starting inwards and pushing out

Cleaning: Dust, stains and dirt can build up on your paper. Take the time out to wipe down your wallpaper with a damp rag or with a brush attached to your vacuum.

Contact local interior designers

Installation tips

Bold prints

For loud prints it’s best to start from the centre and work outwards, otherwise, begin wallpapering from the corner diagonally opposite to your door, and work your way around back to the door and finishing in the corner so the seams aren’t visible. Always start from the top and work your way downwards. When you reach the floor, use a sharp utility knife to trim the top and bottom.

Around a window

Start by trimming the paper around the window sill of the door frame. The leftover paper can be used above a window sill or door frame but ensure the pattern is perfectly aligned to avoid clashing prints. 

Around a powerpoint

To wallpaper around a power outlet, hang the paper over the outlet then cut two diagonal slits from corner to corner. Cut out the triangular flaps, then loosen the plate to smooth out the edges of the wallpaper before reattaching.

Wallpaper vs paint

Applying a new spread of colour or patterned wallpaper can instantly refresh a space, but with the range of hues and textures available, choosing between a fresh coat of paint or a new wallpaper spread isn’t easy. To guide your next interior step, here are the main points of difference between paint and wallpaper to consider.

Paint

  • The use of colour is transformative in a space and applying a coat of colour is an easy way to distinguish different areas of the home 
  • A coat of paint can bring elements of a space together to give the illusion of extra depth. Paint however, won’t be useful in concealing an uneven surface
  • With occasional maintenance, a repaint will only be necessary every few years. Give your wall a quick clean with a warm, damp cloth to extend the life of your paint and ensure your wall is looking great
Great use of paint, texture and layering / Source: Visualising Interiors

Wallpaper

  • The patterns, textures and design elements of wallpaper are endless, making it the ideal decorative choice. They can introduce colour and warmth into a room and subtle texture to liven your existing space
  • Wallpaper can accentuate personal style to make a statement in a relatively easy way and can be a useful tool to cover an uneven or damaged surface
  • From wood prints to metal finishes or faux brick, wallpaper can create the impression of real timber or red brick without a structural change
  • To maintain your paper a basic mix of warm water and cleaning detergent is suitable for vinyl and washable wallpapers. Start scrubbing from the top of the wall, ensuring the wall is lined with plastic to catch excess water
Categories
Finance

What is negative gearing?

Negative gearing is a rising trend among investors. People who want to purchase investment properties often need to borrow money from lending institutions. When people borrow, they calculate the risks and potential rewards carefully. Most ordinary investors will try to ensure the monthly profits from their investment property will surpass the mortgage repayments and interest rates.

Negative gearing doesn’t follow the same rules. People borrow money knowing that the profits from the property won’t cover the monthly interest and mortgage repayments. Investors make up for the shortfall between the interest payments and income earned with the help of deductions from their current income tax. Negative gearing is prevalent in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand because of the tax policies and concessions in these countries.

What is the benefit of negative gearing?

Why would you invest in a property that doesn’t offer profits that actively cover your expenses? Even if you get a tax break from the government, you don’t earn enough profit through rent to justify the initial investment. Here’s what you need to understand about negative gearing:

  1. Negative gearing works because investors don’t intend to retain the property over the long-term. Their investment only bears fruit after they pay off their loan and sell the property.
  2. For negative gearing to be profitable, the property must be a part of a thriving housing market. Property values should increase over time instead of remaining steady or decreasing.
  3. If you purchase the right property in the right market, you can potentially earn several hundred thousand dollars in profit. This investment is risky and can potentially lead to complete loss of money.
  4. Investors need to plan carefully and ensure they have enough financial stability to bear the shortfall between interest rates and income even with the tax break.

Negative gearing is a financially sound decision only if your capital gains are greater than your initial investments and related expenses.

How does negative gearing work?

You need to consider a number of factors before you invest in negative gearing. If you don’t plan your investment well, you can face losses amounting to several thousand dollars. Here’s what you need to consider:

  1. The total income from the property. For this, you need to multiply the weekly rent by 52 to calculate the annual income.
  2. Tally all expenses including mortgage repayments, vacancy, repairs, insurance, manager fees, bank fees, council rates, water rates, land tax, strata fees, and property improvements costs.
  3. Subtract the total expenses from the income. Deduct depreciation as well.
  4. Calculate the amount of tax you need to pay and determine how much of it will be refundable.
  5. Consider the capital growth of the property in the market.

All of these factors will help you determine the capital gains from your investment. If you don’t perform these calculations, you won’t know if the property is worth investing in and whether you will get enough money to justify the investment. This is how negative gearing works and delivers profit. It relies solely on the market demand and supply as well as the growth in property rates.

An example of negative gearing

It’s not easy to understand how negative gearing works without considering a real-life example. Here is an example that illustrates how you can earn profit using this investment strategy:

  1. You purchase a $440,000 property on a loan of $400,000 with 7% interest rates. Your interest will be around $28,000.
  2. If you earn around $450 rent every week on this property, you earn $23,400 in annual rent income, which leaves you with a shortfall of $4,600.
  3. If the value of the property increases by 10%, you gain a profit of $44,000 at the end of the year and once you remove the shortfall of $4,600, you have an overall profit of $39,600.
  4. You can deduct the other expenses from this calculation and still get ample profit at the end of the year.

If the value of the property doesn’t grow by 10% or more, you won’t gain enough profit to justify your investment.

Contact local property lawyers

What expenses can you claim as deductions?

In most cases, you can claim a deduction for any expenses related to the management and maintenance of an investment property, this includes any interest you pay on loans. When your asset is negatively geared, you may be able to deduct the full amount of rental expenses against your rental and other income, including your salary and wages.

The rule of thumb is, property investors can claim deductions in three main categories:

  • Building allowances – in most cases you can claim building allowances such as for depreciation over time
  • Revenue deductions – you may be eligible to claim revenue deductions such as the interest on borrowed funds
  • Capital items – major items such as a oven or dryer in a rental property are subject to depreciation over time and can be claimed over several years

Are there any changes in negative gearing in 2021?

The 2021 budget includes a number of measures relevant to property investors, however it doesn’t directly address or change existing arrangements around negative gearing.

How does this affect Australians?

Negative gearing is still a good investment option for Australians, particularly if you have enough financial stability to support the shortfall between the interest rates and the income generated. The housing market is on the upward trend so you can expect the value of the property to grow comfortably over a short period of time.

It’s a good idea to consider a short-term investment instead of long term investment if you intend to use negative gearing. Most people only invest for one year and see several thousand dollars in profit. This can keep you safe from any changes to regulations the government makes in future years.

Categories
Reception

The most unique wedding venues in Australia

Your wedding venue plays a vital role in the overall ambience of your wedding. If the venue, theme and decor work well together, the atmosphere will be welcoming and unique. Most couples choose traditional wedding venues like halls, churches and gardens, but it doesn’t hurt to think out-of-the-box.

There’s something out there for every budget, preference and requirement, you just need to find what is right for you.

Outdoor wedding venues

Outdoor weddings have their own unique charm. The environment is free, open, social and bright. You can get married surrounded by greenery and nature, in a bright and cheerful morning sky or under the starlit evening sky. There is no shortage of nature’s beauty in Australia, so you’re sure to find a beautiful venue for your wedding. Here are some options for you to consider:

  • Glen Erin at Lancefield – What can be more romantic than getting married in a vineyard? You can enjoy excellent wines, wonderful food and stunning scenery at once. The vineyard is also a great backdrop for wedding photographs, so all your wedding pictures will look stunning and unique. The Glen Erin vineyard is located at the foothills of the Macedon Ranges and is merely 35 minutes away from the Melbourne airport. 
  • Kingfisher Bay Resort – Imagine a beautiful wedding with a gorgeous backdrop of crystal clear blue sea and white sand. That’s exactly what you get at Kingfisher Bay Resort. This venue is an excellent choice for people who are willing to splurge on a destination wedding and want to make it a day/night event. The resort is located on Fraser Island, which is listed as a World Heritage site. You can host 250+ guests at this beach-front location, so it’s ideal for people who want a great outdoor wedding to enjoy with their family and friends.
  • Longitude 131° – Australia is known for its outback and rugged natural beauty, so why not make this beauty a part of your wedding memories? Longitude 131° provides an immersive wedding experience. You can enjoy the comfort of luxury tented pavilions and the flavour of expertly prepared food and drinks in this ancient and majestic land. You can get married with the mighty Uluru in the background and share the cultural heritage and history of this place with your family and friends on your special day.
  • Orso Bayside Reception – Not everyone wants to travel all the way to Ayer’s Rock for a wedding ceremony. Some couples prefer a more modern and less rugged wedding style, this makes Orso Bayside in Sydney a perfect choice. This is a waterfront wedding reception venue. You can enjoy ample natural light, watch the boats travel on the water and enjoy the constant flow of movement here. This venue can accommodate 250. 
  • Terara Riverside Gardens – There’s something very charming and old-school about garden weddings. You’re surrounded by greenery and flowers in full bloom, sheltered by large and ancient trees, getting married under a bright blue or starlit sky. The Terara Riverside Gardens are located 2 hours away from Sydney by the Shoalhaven River in Terara. The location ensures this place is private, quiet and undisturbed. You can have an intimate and beautiful ceremony here.
Vineyard Wedding Image
Wedding in the vineyards / Source: Brook Amy Photography

Unusual wedding venues

Outdoor weddings are wonderful, but some couples want something different for their day. Australia has so many places that can offer unique and interesting wedding experiences. If you want your wedding ceremony to be truly memorable, you should consider the locations mentioned below:

  • St Josephs Guesthouse – This venue is located in Sydney and was a place of worship at one point in time. The owners transformed this Catholic Church into a guesthouse and it became one of the most unusual and interesting wedding venues in Sydney. This location is perfect for a small, intimate wedding with just close friends and family.
  • The Yard at The Lock Up – Ever wanted to get married at a police station and an old prison property? This venue was Newcastle’s Police Station from 1861 to 1982, which lends it a unique vibe. The venue is modern and has all the comforts you can expect from wedding venues, but it certainly has an entirely different vibe to it. You can see traces of the old graffiti and have to pass through a solid iron gate to enter the property. 
  • Shene Estate & Distillery – This venue provides a truly unique and customised wedding experience. It is located in Southern Tasmania, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The owners work with local vendors to provide the best meals and an intimate atmosphere. This is an excellent venue for people who want something private and beautiful in a rustic setting.
  • The Apple Shed – The Apple Shed is a large barn located in Southern Tasmania. It has a bar, cafe, museum and an expansive outdoor area. This outdoor area has a roof and fire pit, so you’ll be very comfortable and warm in the space. The Apple Shed also provides excellent food and some truly spectacular cider.
  • Glasshaus Inside – If you want a venue that’s located in a city, you should consider the Glasshaus Inside. Essentially, it is an urban warehouse plant nursery with an industrial vibe and plenty of potted plants. It’s located near Melbourne CBD and is easily accessible. Your guests won’t have any problems trying to find a comfortable place to stay for the wedding
Coastal Wedding Image
Wedding on the coast / Source: Little Glimpses

Reception wedding venues

If you plan to have an actual wedding in a church or other such locations, you don’t need to spend money on a venue that provides both. Here are some venues that host only receptions:

  • Villa Blanca – Villa Blanca is conveniently located in the heart of Bankstown and can easily house over 400 guests, which makes it a good option for large weddings. The venue has a very modern and sophisticated vibe with the best lighting, audio-systems and ample parking space. Your guests will be happy, comfortable and have a great time.
  • Colbee Centre – This is a highly rated reception venue and has been voted the best in NSW for the 5th time. It’s located in Nurragingy Reserve and has a man-made dock, fountain, ample greenery and even a hardwood dance floor with fairy lights. This reception venue is perfect for a light-hearted and playful wedding.
  • Manly Golf Club – The Australian Bridal Industry Association once voted Manly Golf Club as the best reception location in NSW. This venue certainly hasn’t lost any of its charm since then. It was established back in 1903, so it has a traditional and elegant vibe to it. The wedding reception is open to members as well as non-members.

Contact wedding planners

Intimate wedding venues

Not only are small weddings with a limited number of guests affordable, they’re also easier to organise. You just need to arrange for transport and accommodation for a select number of people. Smaller weddings are also more intimate and personal. The focus is on the couple instead of the party and entertainment. This adds a new meaning to the entire ceremony. Here are some venues that can fit in perfectly with the intimate wedding vibe:

  • The Boat House – The Boat House is located in Barton, Canberra and provides a beautiful and intimate setting. The venue sits on the shore of a lake, has parklands and is only minutes away from the city. The atmosphere here is quiet and serene, which makes it the ideal place for intimate weddings. The location is beautiful and the food is excellent so your family and friends will truly enjoy themselves at this location.
  • Dunbar House – Dunbar House is small, elegant, and charming. It can easily house 110 guests and provides a welcoming atmosphere to all. You can enjoy great views of the Sydney Harbour, soak in the serenity of the property and exchange your wedding vows under an ancient fig tree.
  • Glengariff Historic Estate – This is one of the oldest estates in Australia and the oldest in Queensland. The property has been around for over 130 years and has hosted several weddings in its lifetime. On an average, it hosts around 150 events each year, with great success. Visitors call the estate a photographer’s paradise because there are over 30 different locations that can provide excellent photography opportunities. This property can house 20 to 200 guests comfortably so your wedding can be as intimate or grand as you want it to be.
  • Allegro Function Centre – This venue is located in the Hills District close to Sydney and sits on 5 acres of lush green landscaping. You can enjoy gorgeous bushland views, peer up at large ancient trees and start your new life surrounded by nature. The venue is a beautiful Mediterranean villa with high ceilings, a large fireplace, exposed wood and lime-washed walls. The venue has a very rustic yet elegant ambience to it.

How to book a wedding venue

Most wedding venues allow online reservations or have customer care numbers. All you need to do is contact them via their website or on their listed number to know more about the reservation process. Here are some things you should keep in mind.

  • Decide your budget – You can have a beautiful wedding ceremony at a wonderful location without burning a hole in your pocket. When you’re planning your wedding, make a list of priorities and determine where your venue ranks on the list. If it’s somewhere near the top, you can assign a larger budget to it.
  • Time – Most wedding venues expect you to book date months in advance, especially if you want to get married during the wedding season. It’s a good idea to start making your enquiries about 6 to 8 months in advance. If you intend to get married during spring or summer, you might want to start making enquiries earlier. All the venues mentioned on this list are quite popular so they won’t sit vacant for too long.
  • Decide what you want – Before you choose the venue, decide what kind of wedding theme you want. Do you prefer a small ceremony with just a handful of family and friends or a grand event at a vineyard? Would you prefer being in the comfort of an indoor location or want to savour the beauty of the outdoors? Discuss this with your partner and decide which theme best suits you.
  • Look at reviews – It’s a good idea to look at reviews, articles, pictures and other sources of information to create a shortlist of possibilities. You won’t have time to tour and inspect a large number of venues when you are planning your wedding. Once you’ve created the shortlist, you can contact the venue.
  • Prepare a list of questions – Be prepared with a list of questions regarding the venue location, capacity, food, music arrangements, decor options, parking space, etc. You should also ask for a quote and make sure all expenses are included and described in the quote. You can compare the cost estimate from different venues carefully and determine what suits your requirements and budget best.
  • Tour the place – Narrow the list down further and tour the venues at your convenience. You can look at places that provide a good backdrop for photographs, consider where you’ll exchange vows and other such factors.

You should also take the time to understand the terms and conditions related to bookings, fees, cancellations, etc, before you make your choice. Reading the fine print will help you avoid problems later.