A TEXTURED HISTORY

According to Noble, Potters Receptions got its name from the establishment’s origins as a place for pottery back in the early 1900s. It was a centre for creatives to celebrate the joys of art. What is now the venue’s ‘Bridal Gallery’ used to be a display room to showcase the creations of the artists. To pay tribute to its fascinating history, Potters Receptions maintains its original features while also implementing new unique attributes, such as its wrought-iron designs and contemporary-style accommodation, reception and chapel.

“Potters has a proud history dating back to 1921 and, unusually for the time, was owned by a woman named Louisa James,” Noble says. The original deed, which was issued by King George V himself, was replicated and is now on display for all to see in the main reception room. “As a female owner, I am proud to be continuing this legacy, running the venue alongside out small, tight-knit team,” she says. “The Potters staff are like family, each member bringing something special to the group,” she continues.

It was originally known as ‘Potters Cottage’, where it hosted a quaint restaurant that was favoured by locals. “Over the years, as the venue changed hands, it transformed from a restaurant and event space into a stunning wedding venue, complete with everything couple could want for their special day,” she says. The very fact that Potters Receptions continues to maintain its original charm shows that regardless of who it belongs to, it has always been a venue loved and cherished by Noble and her staff.

A MELBOURNE WEDDING VENUE WITH VERSATILITY

While there’s no undermining the important of charm, charm alone cannot keep an establishment standing strong after so many years.

So, what is it about Potters Receptions that makes it so uniquely special? Its wrought-iron railings, brick pathways, native gardens, wisteria courtyard and contemporary architecture all contribute to its stunning façade, but it also has an incredible versatility that no doubt allows the venue to cater to couples from all walks of life.

Potters Receptions has three stunning locations to say your vowels: the garden gazebo, the wisteria courtyard and the newly refurbished chapel. The on-site chapel is a non-denominational wet weather space that can be customised to suit the tastes of the couple, while their garden gazebo catches the afternoon light and is surrounded by beautiful Japanese maples that are particularly vibrant in the autumnal months. And, certainly not least, Potters Receptions’ iconic wisteria courtyard, which offers two ceremony set-ups either facing the atrium bar or facing the bridal gallery. The sensational outdoor locations shift with the wills of the seasons – and to gorgeous results. “Our wisteria courtyard transforms throughout the season, [with] twisting bare vines in winter, lush green leaves in summer, and dangling pods and purple blooms in spring,” she says. “Our maple garden is particularly stunning the autumn months, blushing brilliant reds and oranges that complement our classic architecture and lamp-lit paths,” she adds.