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Wedding FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions and some useful information about weddings and functions.

What are my accommodation options at Tumbling Waters Retreat?

We mostly  have a minimum two night stay, some room types are available for a 1 night stay * subject to availability. Adults Only.

*Our Luxe suite with the swimming pool can accommodate (max 6)

*Our Luxe Suites and Garden Suite can accommodate ( max 3)

An additional tariff applies if more than two people are staying in the suite and includes Breakfast.

If you do stay the night before your wedding with your brides maids our house keeping team will service your suite and  make it beautiful for your wedding night.

We recommend if you wish to stay, you book ASAP to avoid disappointment.

To Book please contact info@twr.com.au for a Promo code    BOOK NOW

Should you decide to book one of our Dining Packages you will need to do so  closer to your stay. ( At least 72 hours prior to your arrival)

Do I need to book the entire Retreat if I am planning on having my wedding at Tumbling Waters Retreat

The Retreat is purpose built to host Weddings and Accommodation simultaneously . The Dining Room and  Upper Deck Lounge area are strictly for in house guests and the function room  / glass atrium and lower  deck area   is for wedding / function guests.

Cocktails?

We have two large glass cocktail dispenses you are welcome to use, treat your guests with your very own signature cocktails

Please note you must supply all ingredients, and the recipe must uploaded into your portal.

Property Viewings

Viewings are by appointment only and are mainly  on a Saturday morning between 10 am and 11 am. To book a time to visit the retreat please email info@twr.com.au

Can I come for a tasting?

We are a small boutique operation everything is made fresh onsite it is not possible for our Chef to prepare everything on the wedding  menu for you to try hence we are unable to offer tastings.

To maintain the ambience of the Retreat   Dining on the Edge is  for our House Guests Only, however pending availability we can offer the following.

The 3 course Chefs Menu on a Saturday and Thursday evening has similar cuisine and the same wines as what is served at our weddings. Should you wish to try the food and wines you will need to Book in for Dining on the Edge. A non refundable payment in full is required to secure the reservation.

 

How do I secure a date / book?

To secure a date for a Reception / Ceremony  the venue hire fee is required

The venue hire on a Friday / Saturday or Sunday is $4950

The venue hire on a  Wednesday  / Thursday is $3950

To secure a date for a Ceremony Only

Friday / Saturday or Sunday  is $3450

Monday Wednesday Thursday is $2450

Payment can be  made via a direct transfer into our Tumbling Waters Retreat Bank account once aknowledging our terms and conditions.

What sets Tumbling Waters Retreat apart from other wedding venues?

We are a unique, one stop destination which is perfect for your ceremony, reception, accommodation needs and with magnificent photography locations onsite meaning you don’t need to go anywhere else. You can relax and savour your special day. Our exclusive location provides the WOW factor you want to capture for the most special day of your life. However, should you prefer, there are countless breathtaking photography locations on our doorstep; such as iconic Bald Hill, Quiet Sandy Beaches and the beauty of the Royal National Park.

We have also put a lot of thought into our bespoke, contemporary furnishings with Champagne Gold Tiffany chairs and the ability to cater to a small, intimate wedding and also much larger affairs. We have suitable alternate ceremony locations … plan B in case of dreaded inclement weather, that helps you take the stress out of planning for your special day.

All of our packages include everything you need to have a beautiful wedding day and there are no hidden extras. The new Luxury apartment is perfect should you wish to spend the night with your brides maids and then get ready onsite the next day. ….it even has its own private steam room and swimming pool!

Our on site, luxury accommodation also means that you can truly relish this special time with the option to stay at TWR before or after your wedding and create memories to last a lifetime. We can accommodate 11 couples on site to allow you to enjoy this moment with your nearest and dearest if you so desire. We also operate stunning accommodation option on the Beach in Stanwell Park …… Amanzi Beach Suite which is a few steps onto the Beach. This is a 5 minute drive from the Retreat on the beach at Stanwell Park.

Tumbling Waters Retreat also offers a unique ‘Dining on the Edge’ all inclusive Dining experience which is a great way for you to sample our wonderful cuisine, try our wines and meet the team.

With over 17 years experience as a family owned and operated business, we look forward to helping you make your wedding day everything you have ever dreamed of.

What is included in the packages?

 

  • An experienced team of professionals that will coordinate your function to ensure your event runs smoothly and is a huge success.
  • Wedding arbor you are welcome to decorate as you wish or leave raw.
  • Signing table and deck overlooking the ocean.
  • Rolling lawns and secluded park-like gardens….perfect location for a wedding ceremony.
  • Exclusive use of the stunning sandstone function room with 360 degree ocean and rain forest views, rich timber floors, ambient lighting.
  • Glass atrium and dance floor with ocean views, also can be used as a plan B option for your ceremony if it rains.
  • Ocean Deck perched on the Edge of the rain forest with stunning ocean view, perfect for the wedding ceremony.
  • Outside  lighting and  fairy lights create a romantic ambiance.
  • Outside terraced area with ocean backdrop casual seating.
  • Cake table, knife and complimentary cake cutting.
  • Retreat’s décor, tea light candles. Outdoor pot plants with retreats succulents
  • Large glass cocktail dispensers should you wish to have  your own cocktail mix.
  • Bose sound system with  indoor & outdoor speakers throughout the gardens  (You are welcome to down load playlist from Spotify  and a member of our team will operate our sound system and play your music as you walk down the aisle and during the function)
  • Microphone, PA System and lectern.
  • 20 chairs for ceremony.
  • Retreat’s  black or white table cloths and beautiful champagne Tiffany Chairs  with matching napkins. Looks elegant and stunning all night long….The idea is we bring the outside in…
  • Gift box / wishing well
  • The function center has on-site parking with additional unlimited free parking adjacent the property.
Can I have a photo booth ?

Large photo booths are not recommended as they take up a lot of space on  the dance floor and the backdrop required for a  photo booth will  hide the garden or ocean views.

If you would like to book a photo booth  we recommend to book a small one and to make sure the operator sets up well in time before your guests arrive. A TWR member will liaise with your supplier on the day where the best position is to put  the  photo booth pending size.

Can I bring my Dog, Horse, ETC

Pets welcome, must advise TWR staff and kept under control.

What table decorations are included sitdown weddings.

Tea light candles TWR  cutlery,  glasses, napkins table cloths and table numbers.

Can I bring Children to my wedding ?

Children attending a wedding must be supervised at all times and by an adult, the site is a dangerous natural waters fall and cliff edge. It is the parents or legal guardians of the children who are responsible for their safety whilst on site at Tumbling Waters Retreat.*  Children are not permitted to run around the property if they do we will request they leave.

We provide children’s meals 2-12 years of age at $85 per child.

Parents / Guardians  need to acknowledge they will take full responsibility for their children whilst onsite.

Children’s Meals – Chicken Schnitzel chips and salad followed by ice cream and sweets. We usually try and feed the kids first, its important they are happy!!

A good idea is to bring along your own baby sitter let the children attend the wedding  ceremony and then after their meal the baby sitter can take the younger kids back home.

This will allow you and your guests to relax and enjoy the evening and not have to worry about little kids.

Our boutique accommodation has been designed for couples and  children   are not permitted  to stay….apologies in advance.

A polite way of saying no kids Due to the location of property on a  Cliff Edge  this is an adult only celebration.

What is the cost to provide staff meals e.g Photographers, Musicians etc.

Staff meals can be provided from  $130 per staff member includes non alcoholic / select  beverages. Should they wish to take part in the function and be served as one of the guests and consume alcohol then the full tariff will apply. If service providers are seated at the tables with guests  then the full tariff for the package will be charged.

Is there a Sunday Surcharge

A 10% Sunday Surcharge applies and is added to the package price and  20% public holidays.

Can I have a discount?

Tumbling Waters Retreat is a small, boutique Retreat in a unique location surrounded by bush on the edge of an escarpment. As such, the Retreat has huge overheads, mainly insurance and associated legal fees, to keep our business economically viable.

When does the package start and end?

The package  starts when guests arrive to the venue and ends when your guests leave.

Guests usually at 4 pm for a 4.30 pm ceremony during Day light saving and 3 pm for a 3.30 pm ceremony outside of Day Light saving.

 

How many people for a sit down wedding?

We can cater for a maximum of 120 guests for a formal sit down wedding function.

Sit-down 4 square meter rule during COVID 19 max is 68 adults

 

Weddings during the COVID -19 Pandemic

Should Covid 19 effect our business operations at the retreat  and we are not permitted to host your wedding we can  transfer your wedding FOC to  another suitable date that works for everyone.   Please note  weddings / accommodation  transferred to future dates will be subject to any tariff increase applicable to the new date.

To work in with what is permissible  with the NSW Health regulations at the time of your wedding i.e. 4 square meter rule,  we will  allow you to reduce your minimum spend /  guests attending your wedding. We may  need to reduce some of the Menu  items that are available for selection to assist us and our team to navigate some of the challengers COVID 19 presents.

Normal cancellation fees / date change fees  will apply if you decide not to go ahead with your wedding and cancel  or wish to postpone your wedding to a future date.

How many guests for a cocktail wedding?

We can cater for a maximum of 120 adults for a cocktail wedding function.

Minimum guests you allow for a wedding

50 – 60 adult guests (minimum spend ) Sunday and  Friday however various packages have different minimum number of guests requirements –  this information is contained within the various packages and can change depending on the seasons.

Mid week Tuesday – Thursday 30 adults.

Saturdays minimum guests are  80 – 100 adults  depending on package selected and season.

Numbers can be reduced subject to negotiation when booking.

 

 

Can I BYO Spirits Beer or Wine ?

Corkage is included in the package prices should you wish to BYO Beer (max 2 + 1 lite), Spirits (max x 2), or Wine. All beverages must be served by the Tumbling Waters Team. All BYO beverages not consumed during your function will be returned to you after your guests leave the venue. The package price remains the same if you BYO.

If I am having my ceremony onsite when should I tell my guests to arrive?

Guests  arrive 30 minutes before the wedding ceremony and are treated to arrival beverages.  The MC & marriage celebrant along with the TWR supervisor will usher guests to the ceremony site approximately 10 -15 minutes prior to the bride’s arrival.

Is there any cost involved in having guest attend the ceremony only? 

Ceremony only there is an additional charge per person which includes 30 minute beverage service before your ceremony and 30 minutes  after your ceremony.  Guests attending the ceremony only are required to leave 30 minutes after the conclusion of the ceremony.

 

 

What music options do I have?

You can send a Spotify link and we can play your music through our sound system for you, your playlist MUST be compiled in desired playing order). We have a  high end Sonos sound system throughout the garden and reception area. Should you wish to have detailed music co ordination, through out your event, i.e stopping and starting music etc you will need to hire a DJ.

Another option is to  Book a small band or Acoustic Duo.  Recommendations can be found our website.

Please note no loud drum kits are permitted and all suppliers of Music must comply with our noise restrictions.  Your music must be at a volume for everyone to enjoy and  inspire to dance but not leave guests with ringing ears!!

 

I am supplying my own music for the ceremony and reception, what do I need?

Please update your portal with a public spotify playlist from a public spotify account.

For the ceremony, you require 3-4 songs, one for walking down the aisle, approximately 3 minutes long, and then two or three songs for the signing of the Marriage Certificate.

For the reception, you will require 4-6 hours of music depending on the duration of your wedding. Should you wish to have a bridal waltz you will need to supply play list  this song on a separate playlist titled Bridal Waltz, followed by your dancing music. Please provide a spotify playlist link  in desired playing order. A member of the TWR team will stop/start our system for you as required but please keep in mind the TWR team are not DJs.  If there is a lot of stopping / starting of your music, it is best to book a DJ

 

Who will stop/start the sound system if I bring my own iPod / iPhone / Music streaming device?

A member of our team can operate our sound system for you to walk down the aisle to, and phase the music out as required. Please download your  playlist from spotify and email to info@twr.com.au  A member of our team will play your music through our Sonons sound system  please have your ceremony music followed by the music you wish to have played after your ceremony. Please also ensure you have your bridal waltz on a separate playlist followed by your reception music. Please also note, the TWR team are not DJs, if you wish to have multiple stopping / starting or coordination of songs throughout your wedding you will need to hire a DJ.

Can I have a band or DJ and there any noise restrictions?

DJs and bands are welcome, however please be advised that your choice of music must comply with our operational requirements and ambiance of the property and not heard by nearby residents. We therefore require all glass doors to the western side of the property to remain closed when loud music is being played and all loud amplified music to be played indoors. Rest assured that the music will be loud enough for you to dance and party to, however heavy penalties apply should residents complain to Council or Police about unreasonable noise emanating from our property.

How soon after the ceremony drinks & food service start? 

To ensure our high standards of service, beverages are served on arrival with all our wedding package.   Beverage & food service continue after the ceremony, that way your guests are  taken care of whilst your photos are being taken.

When and where does the band / DJ set up?

Bands / DJs need to set up in the glass atrium section of the venue well before your guests arrive.  All DJ,s Bands must BYO all their own equipement and work within our noise restrictions.  No lound drum kits are permitted. The approximate size of our dance floor is about 25 square meters.

 

What is the size of the wedding arbor

About 2.7 meters wide  by 2.7 meters high.

The aisle is about 15 meters long.

You are welcome to BYO own decorations or leave the arbor raw.

Are there speakers in the garden for music during the ceremony?

We have  about 16 outdoor speakers throughout  the garden,  music can be heard on the deck,  the main lawn area  and the Wedding Arbor.

Can my marriage celebrant use your microphone?

Marriage celebrants should supply and prefer to use their own PA equipment. The TWR microphone is not suitable to be used during a ceremony.

What happens if there is a Fire.

The retreat has  a very good fire defense system and we work closely with RFS, if there is a fire / catastrophic day forecast we will reschedule your wedding to the next available date  suitable to both parties.

What happens if it rains?

In the event of inclement weather, the wedding ceremony would take place in the glass atrium overlooking the ocean, with the bride entering from the lower glass double doors.

Are confetti, silk rose petals or balloons permitted?

No confetti/silk rose petals or balloons please. These have the potential to pollute our beautiful bush, on the edge of the Royal National Park and are not suitable.

Are fireworks permitted?

Again, due to our location surrounded by bush and wildlife, fireworks sparklers  are not permitted.

Where do cars park?

Parking onsite  is limited we encourage car pooling for large weddings or hiring a bus.  There is an abundance of parking available adjacent the property

Bendena Gardens at Stonehaven Rd
Stanwell Tops NSW 2508

 

Do I need a Master of Ceremonies?

A Master of Ceremonies is usually a family friend and they are required to liaise with our event supervisor to ensure a smooth flow of your wedding reception. At the beginning of the reception, our event supervisor will brief your MC with certain times or things we require them to assist with, for example, when guests are required to move to the ceremony site, when guests are to move inside and be seated (sit down wedding only) , to announce speeches, announce the cutting of the cake, conclude the reception and remind guests to leave quietly.

Our team supervisor will direct and liaise with your MC and our chef throughout the function to ensure that the timing of the speeches, formalities and coordination of the service flows with the delivery of the food so that everything is kept on time and your wedding runs smoothly.

Do you provide chairs for the outdoor ceremony?

20 champagne gold Tiffany chairs are provided as part of the venue hire. Tumbling Waters Retreat can supply additional champagne gold Tiffany chairs for the wedding ceremony at a cost of $6.00 per chair. Please note ceremonies take approx 20 minutes and we advise to keep chairs to a minimum.

Can you supply white/ black tablecloths?

We recommend black table cloths as the concept of our décor is to bring the outside in as the black disappears so the focus is the   beautiful gardens  that are illuminated with ambient lighting at night, creating a romantic ambience.

Black or white table cloths are supplied for a sitdown wedding.

A black or white table cloth is provided for the centre  grazing table  for a cocktail style wedding.  Cocktail style weddings the granite, marble, and timber tables are left raw.

You are welcome to BYO table cloths however they must be supplied to the venue at least 7 days in advance of your function.

 

How long do I need to have my photos onsite?

Photos generally take about 30-45 minutes if taken onsite directly after the ceremony. Due to the close proximity of the pool and the stunning backdrop, photos are often taken throughout your function. Some couples break tradition and have photos taken prior to their wedding ceremony, this allows for greater time to be spent with family and friends.

Should you wish to have additional time for photography, you may need to extend your package.

Can I go to the beach and have my wedding photos taken?

We prefer you stay on site however if decide to go to the beach for wedding photography please allow a minimum of 45 mins and we recommend you extend your wedding package so that your formalities aren’t rushed and run smoothly.

Are there any areas out of bounds on the property?

Due to our unique location, the property has number of DANGER signs warning people to keep clear of the cliff edge, especially in the ornamental pond and waterfall areas. This is for their own safety and we take the safety of our guests very seriously. If a photographer/guest ignores these signs, they will be asked to leave the site immediately. Please can you make sure your photographer is aware of this important request.

When is the best time to have speeches?

We recommend your MC announces the speeches after the entrée is cleared. For combined speeches greater than 20 minutes, we recommend you have them in 2 separate blocks, this will ensure a continuity of our service throughout the function. A microphone and lectern is provided. If you would like you speeches after the entrée or main they can only start after all plates are cleared.

We strongly recommend you organize who is going to do speeches in advance and discuss with them how long they intend to speak as this may cut into your intended dancing/party time at the end of the night.

Do I need to supply my own name cards and menus for a sit down wedding?

Yes, it is up to you to supply name cards and menus. This will allow you to add your personal touches to compliment your wedding style and theme.

Do you provide a wedding cake?

With both the silver gold  and lunch packages If you select the Belgium Chocolate cake as the only dessert option we can present this as your wedding cake with an oriental Lilly on top. (You are more than welcome to bring your own cake decorations)

When is a good time to cut the cake and where is the cake table located?

A good time to cut the cake is after the main. The granite bench under the mirror provides a safe place for your cake to be kept on display during your function. When cutting the cake the mirror reflects your guests and ocean in the background.

Is there a charge to cut the wedding cake?

No, we do however present your cake on a platter for your guest to enjoy. If the cake is to be plated and individually served an additional tariff applies of $1.50 per person.

Is there a charge to put the wedding cake in boxes?

There is no charge provided the boxes are made up and ready to go. These boxes are then placed next to the wedding cake and your guests have the option to eat the cake during the function or to place the cake in the box and take the cake home with them.

When do I do the Bridal Waltz and how big is the dance floor?

A good time to do the Bridal Waltz is after cutting your cake.

Our dance floor is approximately 10 metres square.

How many tables and chairs are provided with the roaming cocktail package?

The room is set up with ample Tiffany chairs and tables so some guests can be seated whilst others can mingle. For example, for 80 guests we would have approximately 50 chairs inside and 6 square cocktail tables, two lounges, plus outdoor chairs and tables.

How many canapés are served with a cocktail function?

The amount of food served for the cocktail wedding packages is designed to substitute a full meal service. Varying canapés are served every 15-20 mins by our waitstaff. Pending the canapé, we provide 1.5-3 per person.

Can I bring my own spirit/wine/beer?

You are more than welcome to BYO with all our packages, please note package prices will remain unchanged however all alcoholic beverages must be served by the Tumbling Waters team. BYO beverages that are not consumed will be returned to you to take home after the function.

How many beers should I bring for my wedding?

Please allow at least 1 – 1.5 cases of beer per 10 adults plus a few more cases if they are keen beer consumers and depending on the duration of the package. You will also need to bring a light beer option. Please ensure delivery at least 30 minutes prior to your function for us to place beer on ice & to chill ready for your guests. We recommend that you provide a maximum of 2 varieties of beer.

What wines/beverages are part of your packages?

All our packages include a variety of soft drinks, premium red, white and sparkling wine, orange juice, a selection of tea and freshly brewed coffee.

All of our red, white and sparkling wines come from a blended grape variety that has been carefully selected for our most discerning guests.

They are not available for purchase in the bottle shops so you are more than welcome to come to the Retreat and try them prior your function.

Do you have a Responsible Service of Alcohol policy?

Yes we have a Responsible Service of Alcohol policy as per the law and it is illegal for us to serve intoxicated or under aged guests. If you feel that any of your guests may cause a problem on the night/day it may be wise to mention this in advance. Please rest assured there is plenty of alcohol for everyone but we must ensure the responsible service of alcohol policy so that everyone has a great time and remains safe.

When does the bar close?

Legally, the bar must close 30 minutes prior to the completion of the function. Please note we have a Responsible Service of Alcohol duty.

When are guests seated?

The service time lines can be found within each individual package.

The interval between the different courses is about 60 minutes, but varies depending on the size of the function.

What do the retreat’s decorations consist of?

T light candles , succulents from the garden ambient lighting, Champagne Tiffany chairs, raw timber tables, black and white table cloths with champagne gold napkins.

Can I bring my own decorations?

Yes you are more than welcome to BYO own decorations.

What is your operational curfew?

Monday-Saturday is 11pm and Sunday is 9pm except when the Sunday is preceded by a public holiday and in that case, the curfew is 11pm

Can I book a one night stay.

We can do a one night stay in our Ocean Room, subject to availability.  We recommend you book ASAP to avoid disappointment.  All reservations can  be made online via our book now button.  A special promo code is available  upon request.

Can I stay at the retreat with my bridesmaids the night prior to my wedding?

The Luxury Suite with the swimming pool can accommodate up to  5  people maximum. Two people would need to share one king size  bed and roll away beds are provided for the other 3 guests. Please note that more than 2 people in the suite an additional tariff applies.

What is the best transport option to get to the venue?

We strongly recommend you hire a Bus or organize transport well in advance ( see helpful information section of website ) Unfortunately there are very few Ubers / Taxis that operate in our area.

Can I extend the package?

All wedding packages may be extended, the tariff to extend the wedding package per person per hour will apply. You can extend your package on the night of your wedding however we recommend that it is preferable to decide to do so in advance. Please note we have an 11 pm curfew Monday – Saturday and a 9 pm curfew on a Sunday. ( excludes a Sunday prior to a long weekend. )

Do you have rectangular tables?

Our tables are round and seat eight to ten guests. Due to the irregular shape of the room to make the most of the views, it is difficult to have a large number of rectangle tables, however we can do a bridal rectangle bridal table upon request.

How much time should I allow to bid farewell and throw the garter?

Allow at least 15-20 minutes pending guests numbers.

Where do I bid farewell to my guests?

All goodbyes in the atrium and lower deck area and not in car park

How do you make sure our guests leave quietly?

At the conclusion of your function your MC must remind guests to leave quietly as we are in a residential area, no horn hooting etc as heavy penalties apply.

Do you supply a wishing well?

Yes we do supply a wishing well . It is best to organize in advance who will be taking charge of the wedding wishing well / birthday presents gifts etc

What happens in the event of a natural disaster?

We recommend you seek insurance that will cover you for natural disasters, airline disruptions etc when a reception needs to be cancelled postponed or relocated.

Do I need to meet with you prior to my wedding?

It is anticipated (not essential) that you may need about one hour in total onsite to familiarize again with the property along with our style of operation. We can always be contacted by email or phone ( office hours preferable) should you require more on site meetings other than the above additional tariffs may apply.

I would like to do a wedding ceremony rehearsal is this permitted?

You are more than welcome to organize ta suitable time to  come onsite with your bridal party to have a ceremony rehearsal.

Can I change the menu?

We have reputation for high quality cuisine to get this right an enormous amount of time and preparation goes into our menus. Sourcing the quality of the raw produce, presentation of the dishes is of high importance. Should you wish to make changes to the menu you will need to make an appointment to meet   our executive Chef Thierry Molimard.

Unless Thierry  is 100% happy to do the changes  we ask you to select from our comprehensive menus on the website…..having said that our executive chef is very accommodating and will do everything possible to assist.

We require your final menu selection  ( no changes ) 5 weeks before wedding/ function.

Can I bring my own caterers?

In order for us to continue our good reputation with food outside catering is strictly not allowed.

Do you supply meals for guests with allergies / diet intolerances ?

Yes we do, we just need to know well in advance so our Chefs can modify your menu to suit. The best way to get this information from your guests  is to ask about any allergies / diet intolerances when sending out your invitations.

What is the best advice you can give us?

The best advice we can give is for you to relax and enjoy, keep it simple, less is best, do not try and over complicate your wedding it often leads to added stress. Sometimes you may have ideas that we may have tried in the past and simply they have not worked, its not that we are not flexible but after 12 years in operation, please trust our expertise. It is in our best interest to make your celebration the wedding of your dreams. ………we count on word of mouth advertising