SPOTLIGHT ON: COOLIBAH DOWNS
Nestled in the serene valleys and rolling hills of the Gold Coast Hinterland, Coolibah Downs Private Estate is a hidden gem that boasts romance. This venue, set on 10 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, offers a stunning array of event spaces, from lush gardens to a marquee tent, and their award-winning stone chapel. Every detail is designed to showcase the estate's natural beauty, creating a magical backdrop for any celebration.
But Coolibah Downs is more than just a beautiful venue—it's a family heirloom, rich with memories and tradition. For Alina, the director, this estate has always been a labour of love. Trading the high-powered world of Mergers & Acquisitions for the enchanting realm of wedding bells and bouquets, Alina's journey to Coolibah Downs is anything but conventional. With a background in Law and Commerce and a career at one of Melbourne’s Big Four firms, her path to the wedding industry was serendipitous.
Alina's connection to Coolibah Downs began in her childhood. Growing up, she was immersed in the hustle and bustle of weddings and events, starting as a dishwashing dynamo in the kitchen and gradually taking on roles from waitstaff to wedding DJ. These early experiences ignited a lifelong passion for the venue, even as she pursued her corporate career.
Then came 2020, a year that disrupted the wedding industry. Determined to preserve the magic of Coolibah Downs, Alina merged her corporate expertise with her love for the estate. Alongside her mother, she managed the business from afar but regularly travelling up to Queensland. This year, Alina made the decision to devote herself entirely to Coolibah Downs, pouring her passion and expertise into transforming it into a sanctuary of romance.
What Awaits You at Coolibah Downs
Coolibah Downs is a treasure trove of romantic possibilities, offering couples a picturesque setting for their special day. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a serene garden or within the venue’s charming chapel, the choice is yours. The estate also features chic reception spaces, cosy accommodation for up to 33 guests, and bespoke catering.
But Coolibah Downs isn’t just for weddings. With the introduction of Corporate Events packages, the venue is perfect for everything from influencer soirées to milestone birthday parties. Whatever the occasion, Coolibah Downs offers exclusive use of the estate, ensuring that your event is as private as it is unforgettable.
A Day in the Life: Director Edition
Running a wedding venue is far more than arranging flowers and seating arrangements—it’s a finely tuned symphony of strategy, creativity, and hands-on involvement. Alina’s day starts early, at 6:30am, where she checks her emails to ensure nothing has slipped through the cracks overnight. By 9:00 AM, she’s gathered her team for a management meeting.
Late mornings are dedicated to the business’s financials, marketing strategies, and any pressing management tasks. But by early afternoon, it’s time for a more inspiring activity—a walk through the lush gardens to check in with the groundskeeping team and dream up new ways to enhance the estate’s natural beauty.
As the day winds down, Alina shifts her focus to the details that make Coolibah Downs a dream venue. Whether overseeing event setups or brainstorming innovative ideas for future weddings, Alina’s hands-on approach ensures that every aspect of the business reflects the same level of care and dedication that has made Coolibah Downs a beloved destination.
The Coolibah Downs Ethos: A Vision of Love
For Alina, the vision for Coolibah Downs is simple: create a "home away from home" where couples can celebrate their love in a uniquely personal way. "We’re committed to crafting unforgettable experiences," Alina shares, "with a focus on sustainability, community, and impeccable attention to detail." At Coolibah Downs, every celebration is a collaborative effort, where the team works together to bring each couple’s dream day to life, making it not just memorable, but magical.
Coolibah Downs Couples
Who are the couples drawn to Coolibah Downs? They’re creative, detail-oriented, and deeply in love with the idea of crafting a wedding that’s both elegant and personal. "Many of our couples have a deep appreciation for nature," Alina notes. The venue’s versatile spaces allow for endless personalisation, making it the perfect canvas for couples who want to weave their love stories into every aspect of their day. With a history of hosting culturally rich weddings, Coolibah Downs is where tradition meets modern romance in the most beautiful way.
Behind the Scenes
Behind every stunning wedding at Coolibah Downs is a team of professionals dedicated to perfection. From the event coordinators who meticulously plan every detail to the hospitality team who provide the most delicious food, every member of the Coolibah Downs team plays a vital role in making your wedding day flawless. "Our groundskeeping team keeps our gardens looking immaculate year-round," Alina adds, "while our setup crew ensures every table setting is perfect, right down to the last champagne glass."
The result? A seamless, stress-free experience where you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating your love.
The Heart of the Role
What Alina loves most about her role at Coolibah Downs is watching each team member grow and achieve their shared goals. However, what truly makes the job special is the deep connection she forms with couples, often spending 1-2 years planning a wedding together and becoming close friends by the time the big day arrives. "Seeing their dreams come true is bittersweet—it’s like watching a loved one embark on a new adventure." - Alina
In June, Coolibah Downs celebrated its 20th anniversary with an unforgettable celebration, and we were fortunate enough to be on the guest list. The night was nothing short of spectacular, with notable guests like TVC creative director Jess V, and stylists Jess C, and Maria gracing the occasion. The night was a testament to the estate's enduring charm and reputation as a premier event venue, leaving everyone in attendance in awe of the magical atmosphere.
As Coolibah Downs continues to evolve under Alina’s watchful eye, one thing remains certain: this is a place where dreams come true, and every wedding is a story waiting to be told.
If you’re on the hunt for your dream venue, book your appointment at The Veil Collective and discover our exclusive offer in partnership with Coolibah Downs. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity!