Bride and groom lose thousands, wedding reception cancelled as Kirribilli Club goes bust.

By ANNA USHER

A bride-to-be has been left “devastated” after her dream wedding venue suddenly closed its doors just two weeks before the big day.

Rachel and fiancé Steven were due to host a reception for 100 guests at the Kirribilli Club on Saturday 13 July, with a curated menu of canapes and a three-course dinner, followed by speeches and dancing in the Grand Ballroom.

The couple have told Mosman Collective they were “blindsided” when administrators SV Partners ceased trading – without prior warning – on Monday 24 June.

“This past week has been every Bride’s worst nightmare,” Rachel said, “no official communication was provided by the club and my wedding has been thrown into complete chaos.”

Rachel said the decision to host her wedding reception at the landmark venue was a sentimental one, after a harbourside proposal in June 2023.

“Starting our married life at the Kirribilli Club was something we were really looking forward to,” she said.

“We got engaged on Sydney Harbour and our wedding photographs were going to take place in Wendy Whiteley’s Garden.

“Steven and I spent months planning the menu, the drinks, table arrangements and invitations – all for nothing.”

The club invoiced the pair $16,790 to host the gala event, which was to include welcome drinks in the Harbourview Room, canapes, an in-house wedding coordinator, on site security and a five-hour premium drinks package.

“Thankfully we only paid a 10% deposit of $1679, but I doubt we will ever see the money again,” Rachel said.

“And it looks like we got off lightly, because there are other functions that were booked – and paid – in full.

“I have heard of at least four other weddings due to take place at the Kirribilli Club. It’s just devastating to think they can leave people in the lurch like this.”

Luckily, Rachel’s bridesmaids, Steven’s groomsmen and his Mum have come to the rescue, securing last minute availability at Le Montage in Lilyfield.

“The staff at Le Montage have gone above and beyond to make our day special, and they are pulling out all stops to ensure my wedding day is perfect,” Rachel said.

“I just hope other couples in the same situation can find somewhere to host their big day without having to postpone their nuptials.

“The whole process has been a painful one – it’s honestly every Bride’s worst nightmare.”