‘Gutted’ couples scramble as Yarra Valley wedding venue The Riverstone Estate closes down

The Riverstone Estate in Yarra Valley has revealed it’s closing down, leaving dozens of “devastated” couples scrambling for a new wedding venue months before their big day.

The Riverstone Estate is closing its doors. Picture: Facebook

A popular Yarra Valley wedding venue has been forced to shut its doors, leaving dozens of couples scrambling months before their big day.

In an email sent to customers on Tuesday afternoon, management revealed The Riverstone Estate in Coldstream will permanently close at the end of next month.

“After over a decade of pouring our hearts into creating the most amazing intimate wedding venues, it is with great sadness that we need to inform you that we have been unable to secure a new lease at 105 Skye Road Coldstream,” they said.

“What does this mean? Unfortunately, Weddings Yarra Valley trading as ‘The Riverstone Estate’ has ceased and will permanently close from the 30th of June 2024.

“We understand that this will be a complete shock for you, however, we will try to help you navigate through this challenging time as best we can.”

In the email, management said customers will be refunded any deposits already paid to the venue.

The venue will close on June 30.

“In the coming days, you will be sent the appropriate paperwork to complete so we can refund any money previously paid which you can use to lock in a new venue,” they said.

“While this incredibly heartbreaking and unfortunate outcome is beyond our control, we are deeply sorry for the inconvenience this will cause you and look to support you in any way we can.”

A bride to be, who booked the venue for a September wedding, told the Herald Sun she was “gutted”.

“It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions,” she said.

“It was my dream venue, I’m devastated. I have no idea what I’m going to do now.”

Another woman with a wedding in September said she booked the venue two years ago.

“I’m extremely upset ... three and a half months in the wedding world is like a week,” she said.

“We already paid so much for vendors to have everything pre-organised as we just had a new baby and I’ve been on maternity leave.

“I just can’t believe this added stress now of having to try and find a new venue.”

The Riverstone Estate is located on part of a 30 hectare vineyard and farm, set on the banks of the Yarra River.

It was the winner of the 2023 National Bridal Awards for restaurant reception venue.

“The Riverstone Estate is known for producing exceptional food and wine, with breathtaking 360-degree views,” the website stated.

“The central showpiece of the property is a classic storybook homestead and function space built from bluestone and 100-year-old Oregon timber, which was reclaimed from the Newmarket sale yards.”

The Riverstone Estate was contacted for comment.