Your own western-themed venue for a whole weekend? Heck yes! This total do it yourself VIC wedding venue, Ace-Hi, is the perfect backdrop for a mini wedstival.

Organise your own catering, alcohol, and marquee, or if you prefer to have someone take the reins for you, Ace-Hi has plenty of packages available and a beautiful barn onsite.

Photography by Georgia Verrells.

Can you tell us a bit about what makes your offering unique?

We provide a weekend wedding experience with access from Friday – Sunday with accommodation included.

What are some of the perks of getting married at your venue that couples might not realise?

You can totally do it your way with a complete DIY option including own caters and BYO alcohol. You can even include adventure activities for your guests while enjoying egg and bacon rolls and coffee the next day!

How did you get involved with weddings? What was the motivation?

I used to have my own wedding styling and prop hire business. When I stumbled across this property it wasn’t booking weddings at all. I instantly fell in love and saw the potential in it – 6 years on we now own it.

Tell us about the facilities your venue offers.

Ace-Hi Ranch is set on 200 acres of rolling hills on the Mornington Peninsula. It is a Western-themed town of its own, exuding charm. There are numerous ceremony location options, including a beautiful Sandstone Chapel. For the Reception – there’s the rustic Barn or an outside area with Horse Wagons and a Bonfire Pit where a Tipi or Marquee can be erected. There is also log cabin accommodation for 150 guests.

Most commonly asked questions? (Oh, and what are the answers?)

Q: What is the curfew?
A: 11:30 pm
Q: Can we bring our dog?
A: Absolutely for the ceremony and photos as long as it’s on a lead
Q: Can we set up a marquee?
A: Yes, there is a large area with ample power for a large marquee or tipi
Q: Is there heating in the barn?
A: Yes, there is an open-fire place
Q: Can we have food trucks?
A: Absolutely, we’ve had quite a few weddings use food trucks

What’s your favourite thing that you’ve seen a couple do at your venue?

Held a Wedstival. It had everything – sperry tent, glamping tents, Airstream caravans, food trucks, marching band, flying fox (zipline) – you name it, they had it! They really made the most of their weekend wedding and loved it!

What advice would you give to couples currently planning their wedding?

Absolutely do it your way, but have the right help to bring it together. There are so many amazing local suppliers, so make the most of them!