Nestled in the heart of Coorparoo, Factory51 has earned a reputation as one of Brisbane’s most unique wedding venues. Its rustic-chic charm, coupled with its versatile event space and handcrafted Italian menu, creates an unforgettable experience for couples and their guests. While the exposed brick walls and elegant chandelier are what most people see, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to make each wedding day extraordinary.We draw back our black velvet curtain to reveal what it takes to host a wedding at Factory51, from the meticulous planning process to the seamless coordination on the big day.
The Venue: A Perfect Balance of Rustic and Chic
Before diving into the logistics, it’s worth noting why Factory51 is so well-loved. The venue’s rustic brick walls, giant crystal chandelier, and handmade timber tables provide a warm and inviting space that can be tailored to a wide variety of wedding styles. Whether it’s a rustic-chic celebration, an industrial-inspired soirée, or an Italian feast, Factory51 sets the perfect stage. Factory51’s function and event space, The Workshop, can be transformed from romantic ceremony location, to lively reception hall, to vibing dance floor.
The Planning Process: Tailored to Every Couple
At Factory51, planning begins long before the wedding day. Every couple is unique, and the team works closely with them to ensure their vision is brought to life. From the moment you book your date, you’ll have access to a dedicated coordinator who will guide you through the planning process.
Venue Viewing: During the initial site visit, couples tour the venue with our Functions Manager. Whether they’re imagining long communal tables adorned with greenery or a sophisticated black-tie affair, our manager is there to help suggest ideas, check available dates, and run through wedding packages.
Securing the Wedding Date: When couples are ready to secure Factory51 for their wedding, our manager prepares a booking contract and deposit invoice, which is sent to the couple via email. Couples then have seven days to return the signed contract and pay the deposit, to secure their date.
Draft Run Sheet: A few months prior to the wedding, our Functions Manager meets with the couple to go over details for the wedding day. At this meeting, details are sought for timings, menu selection, beverage selection, room set up, styling details, and vendor contacts.
Final Details: Final details are due a couple of weeks prior to the wedding. At this stage, couples will need to confirm all outstanding information with our Functions Manager, who will then update and finalise the run sheet for the day. Final payment will also be required based on confirmed numbers.
Setting the Stage: Preparation and Styling
On the wedding day, the Factory51 team is already hard at work long before the first guest arrives. Their meticulous attention to detail ensures everything is ready for the finishing touches to be placed.
The Bump-In: Preparations typically begin in the morning with the “bump-in”. Vendors and/or the couple’s friends or family will arrive at the venue with signage, flowers, cake, décor, and other personal items. Our Functions Manager coordinates with all vendors and contacts, ensuring that everything has arrived. If a couple is having a reception only, then the furniture will be in place, ready to be styled. If the couple are having both the ceremony and reception onsite, our team will receive delivery of reception items and set them up for the couple after the ceremony.
Room Turnover: For weddings that include both a ceremony and reception, the room turnover process is seamless. After the ceremony concludes, our Functions team draw the curtains closed and quickly transforms the space for the reception. Chairs are rearranged, tables are set, and the finishing touches are added to ensure a magical atmosphere.
The Culinary Experience: Food That Brings People Together
Factory51’s Italian-inspired menu is more than just a meal—it’s an experience designed to bring people together. Our incredible team of chefs design a menu that focuses on fresh, local produce, and accommodates any dietary requirements.
Cocktail Hour: Weddings often begin with a cocktail hour, where guests enjoy antipasti platters, woodfired focaccia, and signature drinks. This is the perfect time for guests to mingle while the couple takes their first photos as newlyweds.
The Main Event: Once the reception begins, guests are treated to an alternate drop menu, shared feast, or cocktail style menu. Every dish is hand crafted with the finest ingredients and presented beautifully, ensuring a culinary experience that guests won’t forget.
Dietary Needs: Factory51 is committed to accommodating all dietary requirements, ensuring that every guest feels included. Whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, coealiac, pescatarian, allergies, or meals tailored for children, our Chefs can tailor the menu to ensure everyone is well fed.
Sweet Finish: After the couple have cut the cake, our kitchen carefully disassembles any tiers and cuts the cake into portions, ready to be plattered and served to guests. Did we mention this is complimentary?!
Seamless Coordination on the Big Day
One of the most impressive aspects of Factory51 is the team’s ability to handle every detail with grace and precision.
Point of Contact: On the day, couples have a dedicated point of contact – the Functions Supervisor – who ensures everything runs smoothly. They receive a personal handover from the Functions Manager prior to the day, and use the Run Sheet to direct proceedings. Whether it’s greeting the bride on arrival or liaising with the MC for speeches, our on-the-ground coordinator is key to the event’s success.
Flexibility: Weddings rarely go 100% according to plan, but the team at Factory51 is well-versed in adapting to last-minute changes. Whether it’s adjusting the timeline or accommodating unexpected requests, they handle it all with professionalism and poise.
Creating Memories That Last a Lifetime
Behind every wedding at Factory51 is a team of dedicated professionals who pour their hearts into creating an unforgettable day. From the initial planning stages to the final pack down, every moment is carefully curated to ensure couples and their guests have the time of their lives. Contact our team to start planning your celebration!
Images by Cooper Brady Photography