Saying “I do” lasts less than a minute, but the memories of that moment will last a lifetime, and the most enchanting space within the heart of Adelaide is The Sanctuary at the Adelaide Zoo, facilitated by the Blanco Weddings team.
With over four decades of honouring the importance of this moment, Blanco Wedding’s experience and passion provide invaluable reassurance that they will tailor the day to deliver upon your dream within the divine surroundings of The Sanctuary.
The Sanctuary is the perfect fusion of a contemporary, elegant interior space connecting guests to the beauty of the surrounding fauna and flora. The dream venue for those wanting to exchange vows with nature’s beauty in view but comfortably ensconced in a divinely decorated, temperature-controlled interior space.
Situated near the city and alongside the Adelaide Botanic Garden, Botanic Park, and Riverbank Precinct, it’s close enough to all the action while retaining a divinely serene distance. Sitting upon Plane Tree Drive, just inside the Zoo’s entrance, the Sanctuary’s convenient location provides the ultimate events experience.
With plenty of parking and public transport nearby and easy access to accommodate all guests, it removes all transport and accessibility concerns for hosts and guests alike.
Austinn Horner, the Sanctuary’s Venue Manager, spoke with Glam Adelaide about the delight expressed by guests when they discover the Sanctuary:
“When guests first enter the Sanctuary for the first time, they’re surprised to discover such a sophisticated and decadent space within a Zoo. While pre-function animal interaction experiences are available, the Sanctuary’s function space is an entire experience in itself. It’s often been referred to as our Hidden Gem”.
The Sanctuary, managed by the Blanco Weddings division of Blanco Horner, has been integral to creating unforgettable experiences for guests at the Adelaide Zoo and beyond for over 40 years.
Blanco Horner manages functions at the Zoo, Centennial Park, and the award-winning Restaurant Botanic, which was recently ranked the 15th best restaurant in the world as part of the prestigious La Liste Top 100 awards. The restaurant has garnered several other prestigious awards, including Three Hats by Good Food, Gourmet Traveller Restaurant of the Year 2023, and The Advertiser’s Number One Restaurant in SA in 2022.
Austinn further detailed the depth of the connection between these two extraordinary venues:
“The Executive Chef of Blanco Horner, who is formally the Head Chef of Restaurant Botanic, has brought a lot of his flair for creative food, making for some truly inspired creations, especially for our bespoke dishes. Our menus incorporate high-quality, ethically sourced and sustainable ingredients, with a focus on using Australian produce as much as we can.”
“He recently designed a bespoke menu that we worked closely with a client on that highlighted Indigenous ingredients, such as green ants, which he used for garnishing.”
“We want to ensure that anyone who entrusts The Sanctuary’s team to deliver their dream day feels heard, seen, respected, and celebrated.”
Austinn has been working in his family’s business, Blanco Horner, for over 10 years. He started in the Sanctuary with the front-of-house team at age 18 and then stepped into roles at Centennial Park and Restaurant Botanic.
Austinn’s comprehensive knowledge, engagement, experience, and passion are shared with Sanctuary’s team, who are committed to delivering extraordinary experiences that honour the aspirations of their valued clients.
When you book your special day at The Sanctuary, the Blanco Weddings team will work with you on how best to transform this space into a magical setting for your ceremony and reception. The Sanctuary can accommodate your needs whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration.
The dedicated team ensures every detail is perfect, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day.
This winter, The Sanctuary has unveiled a special wedding reception offer for January to March 2025. Couples can enjoy significant savings and luxurious upgrades to make their day truly special.
The offer includes a welcoming spritz cocktail for each guest, elegant complimentary chair covers, an upgrade to the premium Bremerton 5-hour beverage package, and an included photo permit for the Adelaide Botanic Garden.
Wedding packages start at $160 per person and include 5-hour beverage services, pre-dinner canapés, a choice of entrees, mains, and desserts or cheese platters. All packages include venue hire, use of a microphone and lectern, and a beautifully plattered wedding cake.
Blanco Weddings guarantees exceptional service. Their collaboration with Adelaide Zoo also offers unique opportunities for your guests to enjoy special moments, like witnessing giant pandas or participating in animal encounters.
The team at The Sanctuary is dedicated to making your event extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate function, or special celebration, don’t miss the special wedding reception offer for early 2025.
For more information and to book, click here.
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