Merrimu Receptions to shut doors after being opened for nearly 70 years

A bustling wedding venue has told couples it’s closing down, leaving them scrambling to find a new spot for their big day.

Merrimu Receptions is located opposite Chadstone shopping centre on Dandenong Rd. Picture: Google Maps

A popular wedding venue is shutting its doors after opening nearly seven decades ago.

Merrimu Receptions, located in Melbourne’s southeast, will be closing down next year after the property was bought by developers.

It is understood management called customers on Tuesday, confirming the last wedding would be held in June 2025.

“I’m absolutely shocked, it came out of nowhere,” a bride said.

“It’s just disappointing. I’m scrambling to find a new venue for my wedding next year, it’s just an extra stress that I don’t need.”

The venue has been sold to developers for a undisclosed amount.

It is unclear how much the Murrumbeena venue was sold for or who purchased it.

When contacted by the Herald Sun, director Peter Batziakas declined to comment.

Merrimu sits opposite Chadstone shopping centre and has been open since 1955 but was acquired by the Batziakas family in December 2005.

It’s known for its heritage-inspired exterior and caters for up to 400 guests.

The venue was also used for Year 12 school formals including Salesian College, De La Salle College and Bentleigh Secondary College.

The closure of Merrimu is another major blow for Melbourne’s wedding industry, after The Riverstone Estate in Coldstream shut in June this year.

Brides slammed the award-winning Yarra Valley venue for its lack of transparency surrounding its lease, leaving them scrambling to find a new site just months before their big day.

The venue was 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.