Whim Event Planning and Design is a team of Toronto wedding planners and day of coordinators specializing in modern romantic weddings for fun, sweet couples. Get in touch with us today to start planning your dream day! Niagara Wedding Planners Niagara winery wedding planners Mississauga wedding planner woodbridge wedding planner vaughan wedding planner
Venues in the GTA: Niagara Wineries
Tuesday, 06 June 2017
If you and your SO are fans of cozying up to a nice glass of red by the fire, then a winery wedding is the perfect choice for you. And, well, even if you don’t fancy a glass of chardonnay every now and then… it might still be your ideal venue. Wineries in Ontario are absolutely stunning in every way, and offer an exceptional backdrop for your nuptials. Whether it’s your dream to get married in a vineyard or in the quaint accommodations of a historic winery, there’s one place in Ontario that we can guarantee you’ll find it all: Niagara. Just outside of the GTA is brimming with stunning Niagara wineries with exquisite wines and more importantly, beautiful wedding venues. If you’re interested in tying the knot at one of the elegant wineries Niagara has to offer and aren’t quite sure where to begin, worry not. Take a look at some of our favorite Niagara wineries—we guarantee you’ll find something you love!
Beautiful Niagara Wineries for Your Wedding
Hernder Estate Wines
Located in St. Catherines, Hernder Estate Wines is the perfect option for any type of wedding. Their outdoor facilities are gorgeous, with a quaint little bridge for photos, and a gazebo just begging to be strewn with flowers. They have indoor facilities if you fancy a winter wedding, with two different rooms that seat from 140 to 300 guests. The barn-like structure of this venue gives us some serious rustic vibes, making it perfect for a rustic chic event.
Vineland Estates Winery
Just outside of St. Catherines is where you’ll find this stunning winery. Well-suited for a more intimate affair, this quaint venue is ideal for someone looking for a cozy place to say I do. The stunning view of their vineyard that seems to go on forever is incomparable, and makes for a gorgeous outdoor backdrop.
Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery
If you venture a little further out of St. Catherines towards Beamsville, you’ll stumble upon Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery. Since it sits right at the gateway to Niagara, you’ll find incredible views of the Niagara Escarpment, Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario when you visit this venue. What’s most unique about this location is their incredible charming coach house, where you can entertain just under 50 guests for a sit-down dinner. This makes it the perfect spot to have the intimate wedding you’ve always dreamed of.
Stratus Winery
This Niagara-on-the-lake winery’s ambiance is surprisingly modern, while still maintaining the peaceful and elegant atmosphere of the surrounding area. They have a number of stylish rooms you can host you guests in, their most notable being the Press Alley Industrial Chic. Here, Stratus Winery can become the setting for your reception, with 50 to 100 of your closest loved ones seated at a harvest table among the oak fermenters and stainless steel tanks. Could your winery experience get any more authentic?
Reif Estate Winery
If you’re looking for a winery with a grand Victorian mansion, you’ve found the place. If you’re planning a winter wedding, you can take advantage of their stunning stained glass windows and cozy fireplaces in the Great Hall. In the summer, couples have a wrap-around verandah and an acre and a half of gardens to take gorgeous photos that’ll last a lifetime. With something to offer year-round, you’ll find that the Reif Estate Winery is the embodiment of the term ‘quaint.’
Chateau Des Charmes
An absolutely regal venue, Chateau Des Charmes is a stunning winery that absolutely begs to host the most luxurious of winery weddings. As is the Bosc Family Wines weren’t delicious enough, their grounds are swoon-worthy. With both indoor and outdoor accommodations, this is the ideal choice for those that want to forego the cozy and quaint vibe associated with most wineries, and opt for something a little more grand.
These are just a few of our favorite Niagara wineries, and we hope you found something you like too! Did we forget to mention your favorite Niagara winery? Leave us a comment and let us know!
- Published in 2017, Venues, Wedding, Wedding Planning
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Rustic Wedding Venues In the GTA
Thursday, 09 March 2017
And we’re back with another edition of Wedding Venues in the GTA! This time we’ll be tackling rustic wedding venues in the GTA, for all of you who are aiming for that shabby-chic vibe on your big day. These venues aren’t just suited for casual affairs (although they’re perfect for those, too), they can also be glammed up for for a glitzy event with an added rustic edge. Rustic glam weddings have been on the rise in popularity, and we aren’t mad it it. From naked cakes, lace dresses, to venues strewn with fairy lights, we can’t get enough of this trend. Living in the big city can make it tough to find the perfect venue that’s a mixture between rustic and chic, but you don’t have to worry since the Whimlets are here to help. We’re super excited to share some of our favorite rustic wedding venues around the city with you, so let’s jump right into it!
RUSTIC WEDDING VENUES IN THE GTA
Photo by Erica Hammer
Ward’s Island Clubhouse
Steps from the Ward’s Island Ferry docks, you can find this adorable clubhouse on the Toronto Island. It may be a bit of a treck, but it’s totally worth it— you can get that beach house vibe without venturing too far from the city. In addition to its charming aesthetic, the location of this rustic wedding venue offers a great opportunity for stunning photos against Toronto’s skyline. Whether you choose string fairy lights from the stunning cathedral ceiling and go all out with decor or leave the setting in its natural beauty, you can’t go wrong with Ward’s Island Clubhouse.
Photo by Chris Luk
Berkley Fieldhouse
You probably won’t believe us when we say you can have cocktails in a tree house and a stroll along a creek, followed by a gathering in a natural garden in the heart of downtown Toronto, but at Berkley Fieldhouse, you can have it all. Located in the centre of our bustling city, this venue is an ideal option for those that want the feel of a country carriage house, without having to actually go into the country. With quaint accents like antique chandeliers, wood walls, and french doors that lead to a garden patio, it’s tough to beat the charm of this rustic wedding venue. rustic wedding venues in the GTA
Photo by Lushana Bale Photography
Black Creek Pioneer Village
This name might ring a bell— and yes, it’s the place you went on your seventh grade field trip to. But we promise we aren’t insane to suggest you have your wedding here! You might be surprised at how adorable the facilities are. With different options, both indoor and outdoor, of where to have your ceremony and reception, Blackcreek Pioneer Village gives you a ton a freedom when deciding what your big day will look like. Whether you choose to get married at Town Hall and celebrate in the Grand Pavilion, this village offers its 19th century charm wherever you go. rustic wedding venues in the GTA
Photo via Tiffany’s Bridal Tips
Cambium Farms
There’s no better way to achieve that rustic vibe than getting married in a barn. You may question how you’ll prepare a barn for a chic wedding, but it’s simple when you choose Cambium Farms. An architectural masterpiece with exposed beams, braces, posts, and rafters, the intricate craftsmanship on display here doesn’t require draping or sheaths to be covered up. You can use the barn’s original form along with a few delicate embellishments to create a perfect setting for your big day. rustic wedding venues in the GTA
Photo via Pleasurevalley.com
Pathways on Pleasure Valley
Located just 45 minutes outside Toronto, this is the perfect rustic wedding venue for couples who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy their day in a tranquil location. Described as a “hidden gem” on their website, Pathways on Pleasure Valley is just that. You can choose to hold your event at their picnic area underneath a heavenly canopy, or inside their quaint lodge. If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing venue to get married, then look no further. rustic wedding venues in the GTA
Photo via Artscapeeventvenues.ca
Artscape Wychwood Barns
A wonderfully unique venue in midtown Toronto, this is another option that offers the charm of a rustic barn without leaving the city. With soaring ceilings, a full-length skylight, and incredibly detailed architecture, it’ll be tough to find a more stunning rustic wedding venue in Toronto. The Covered Street Barn can accommodate up to 450 guests in the theatre, and up to 600 in the reception area. However, if you’re planning on a slightly small affair, the barn can be partitioned into smaller spaces for a more intimate feel. rustic wedding venues in the GTA
These are just a few of our favorite rustic wedding venues around the GTA, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t more. Toronto is crawling with rustic-chic venues that might be perfect for your big day, so if you didn’t fall in love with any of the ones on our list, don’t get discouraged! Have we left out any rustic wedding venues you think should have an honourable mention? Leave us a comment below and let us know!
XOXO,
The Whimlets
Whim Event Planning and Design is a team of Toronto wedding planners and day of coordinators specializing in modern romantic weddings for fun, sweet couples. Get in touch with us today to start planning your dream day!
Live Music Options for your Wedding Ceremony
Thursday, 07 April 2016
By Tarisha Beniprashad
For some, the wedding reception is the main event of all their wedding festivities, but we’re strong believers that your ceremony should be the highlight. Vowing your love and life to your SO in front of your friends and family is a significant and beautiful affair, and should be decorated as such! Hiring a live musician or vocalist is a fantastic way to accentuate the elegance of your ceremony. We’ve compiled a list (you know us Whimlets love lists) of some live music options that we think would give your ceremony an extra flair! Keep on reading if you’d like some…
Live music options for your wedding ceremony!
Pianist
As long as there’s a piano at your venue, it’s tough to compete with this classic sound. There are
some incredible pianists in the GTA like Liz Craig who can play practically anything, making this a versatile option for any ceremony.
Harpist
If your venue’s got the space to accommodate the instrument and you really want to up the elegance factor, a harpist is the way to go. Whether your harpist is an angel or not, we guarantee a harp will sound angelic at your ceremony! Joanna Jordan is a fantastic harpist based in Toronto, and would definitely emphasize the grandeur of your vows.
Violinist
A violinist is an ideal option for almost any wedding. Your violinist can play songs and adjust their sound to suit the tone of your ceremony, whether its a backyard affair, or a black tie event. We’re big fans of Jill Daley’s versatile sound.
Organist
Organs are usually hidden out of sight and most commonly found in churches, so you’ll probably have a more formal ceremony if you’re opting to have the sounds of the organ grace the ears of your guests before your ceremony. You can’t go wrong with this traditional sound!
Vocalist
What’s more romantic than walking towards your groom to the sweet lyrics of your special song? Nothing, that’s what. Susan Dunstan is an amazing singer, and we’re sure she’d moisten some eyes before you even walk down the aisle!
Do you really think we could’ve wrote this article without special mention of the greatest wedding singer of all time?
Ensemble
You probably won’t opt for a full out wedding band for your ceremony, but a small ensemble or even a quartet would be a lovely option to orchestrate your processional. We’re big fans of violin and cello duets; check out Walla Music for some heavenly ensembles, and samples of their work!
Band
Hiring a versatile band is another great option if you’d like to incorporate live music into your ceremony. From a graceful ceremony duo to a full dance band at your reception, groups like Brent Miller Live can entertain your guests throughout the days events! We had the privilege of hearing this band live at the 2016 WPIC kick off at The Forth, and we can personally assure you they’ve got an amazing sound!
This list ins’t exhaustive, but we hope that we’ve helped you out a little when contemplating your options when it come to live music at your wedding ceremony. You can’t go wrong with any of these sounds- any of them would be the perfect way to begin your happily ever after!
Leave us a comment and let us know what you think about live music at wedding ceremonies, and if you think we missed any interesting options!
xoxo,
The Whimlets
Whim Event Planning and Design is a team of Toronto wedding planners and day of coordinators specializing in modern romantic weddings for fun, sweet couples. Get in touch with us today to start planning your dream day!
- Published in 2015, GTA, Trends, Uncategorized, Vendors, Wedding, Wedding Planning, Wedding TIps
Toronto Wedding Entertainment
Thursday, 03 March 2016
By Tarisha Beniprashad
Deciding on what type of entertainment to hire for your big day can be a tough decision- but worry not, Whim is here to help you with all of your entertainment woes! Most couples opt to hire vendors to charm their guests during cocktail hour and/or dinner, so you’ll find that many of our suggestions will fit flawlessly into your reception program. If you’re interested in learning about some wedding entertainment ideas that are sure to leave your guests in awe, keep on reading!
Toronto wedding entertainment sure to wow your guests
Popular Toronto violinist, G Pinto
Violinist or Pianist
Hiring a musician that’s open to taking song requests is a great option for both cocktail and dinner time entertainment. We recently attended the WPIC Kick-Off at The Forth, and G.Pinto did a fantastic job providing pre-dinner entertainment!
Wine/ Liquor Tasting
Setting up a wine a liquor tasting is perfect if you’ve got a few wine and liquor connoisseurs in your clan. Consider fun stationed ideas like a scotch or martini station.
Caricatures
We know caricatures are not necessarily everyone’s cup of tea, but they can actually be a fun addition for your guests. What better way than a larger-than-life portrait for your guests to take home with them, to commemorate your wedding? One of our favourites is Michael McDonnell – he has experience with large corporate events and intimate weddings alike! Toronto wedding entertainment.
Showgirls/ Dancers
Hiring a few showgirls to do a number on the dance floor during dinner can be an awesome way for your guests to cleanse their palate between the main course and dessert! You can also opt to go with some cultural dancers; this would be a great touch to incorporate some of your (or your SO’s) culture into your big day. A surefire way to please your guests! One of our favourites is RS Divas – ask for Jana and tell her Whim sent you :). Toronto wedding entertainment.
Singing Waiters
What’s more entertaining than being serenaded while snacking on shrimp toast? Nothing, that’s what. – just ask the talent from the Three Waiters! Toronto wedding entertainment.
Photo taken from The Three Waiters website
Flash Mob
You can either hire some faux wedding guests to burst into dance during cocktail hour, or you can enlist your bridal party to learn a routine to surprise the rest of your guests! This option is sure to shock everyone, and can be a great bonding experience for you and your bridal party. Toronto wedding entertainment.
Guest Video Box
Photo taken from the Living Tables website – Carmen Miranda.
We’ll be honest, this option is more for your entertainment than your guests. Instead of a guestbook, you can opt to rent a video booth for your guests to leave you a special message. You’ll probably find that the video messages get more entertaining as the night goes on!
Living Tables
A living table is a great way to wow your guests while serving hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour. Your guests can be served a refreshment while taking in the sight of an expressively costumed performer. Check out Carmen Miranda from Living Tables!
We realize what a daunting task choosing entertainment for you big day can be, but remember: your guests are there to join in the celebration of your love, and will undoubtedly enjoy anything you choose!
Have you ever been to a wedding with any of these forms of Toronto wedding entertainment? Think we missed an exciting option? Leave us a comment below and let us know! Contact us today to get started on designing a wedding or event that will keep all of your guests entertained all night long!
- Published in 2016, GTA, Wedding Planning, Wedding TIps
Intimate Wedding Venues in the GTA
Wednesday, 24 February 2016
By Tarisha Beniprashad
Having trouble finding the perfect venue for your intimate wedding? Did our Unique Venues in the GTA post not help you find the ideal spot for your nuptials? Fear not, we’ve come up with a new list…
Intimate wedding venues in the GTA
These spots are ideal for a cozy ceremony and a reception just for you and your closest loved ones. Keep on reading if you’d like to find out more about some of the most popular intimate venues in the GTA!
Old Mill Inn & Spa
With a variety of rooms to choose from, the Old Mill offers class and Victorian style like no other. They also have an on-site 16th century candlelit wedding chapel with stained glass windows that would make for some amazing photographs. With amazing in-house catering and luxurious outdoor gardens, Old Mill is an ample choice for any small event.
Camera Bar
Located next to the Stephen Bulger Gallery, the Camera bar is decorate with beautiful art pieces. However, the majority of the space had been left raw, which allows for you to run free with your creativity and create your ideal room. Capacity is 30 for a seated dinner and 110 for a cocktail reception.
Miller Lash House
Featuring high arched ceilings, fireplaces, antique furnishings, and wooden trim, the Miller Lash house is both versatile and beautiful. The University of Toronto owned spaces allows for 50 seated guests, and a cocktail reception of 100.
Le Select
An authentic Parisian bistro in the heart of downtown Toronto, Le Select features a beautiful rear garden equipped with heaters for the cooler months, and a wine cellar with 1,200 different labels. This bistro would be a great option for a slightly more casual affair.
Ancaster Mill
The Ancaster Mill is a little oasis in the scenic suburb of Hamilton. With a waterfall complementing the exquisite exterior, this is the ideal location for a small outdoor wedding. There are also a number of rooms inside of the inn to choose from, if you’re interested in an indoor ceremony. You can choose from rooms with a more modern feel, or go for something a little more rustic. intimate wedding venues in the GTA
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
This location might be the most unique amongst our suggestions. You have the opportunity to exchange your vows amidst free-flying butterflies, serene waterfalls, and lush tropical foliage. The conservatories facilities may accommodate up to 200 reception guests. intimate wedding venues in the GTA
The Arts and Letters Club
Established in 1908, this club features a Tudor style hall, baronial fireplace, cathedral ceilings, and gothic stained glass windows. In-house catering features seasonal flavors, and local tastes. The largest room in the club had the potential to accommodate 112 reception guests. intimate wedding venues in the GTA
Sassafraz
Offering exceptional French-inspired Canadian cuisine, Sassafraz is set in an array of Victorian row-houses in the historic city of Yorkville. Despite having been around for decades, the interior of this intimate wedding venue in the GTA has a refreshingly modern twist. intimate wedding venues in the GTA
We hope that this collection of intimate wedding venues in the GTA helps narrow down your search, and gets you closer to finding the perfect venue for your wedding! Are there any venues you think should be on our list? Contact us today so we can get started on finding the perfect intimate venue for your wedding!
xoxo,
intimate wedding venues in the GTA
- Published in 2016, GTA, Rustic, Trends, Uncategorized, Venues, Wedding, Wedding Planning, Wedding TIps
Royal Canadian Yacht Club – Venue Spotlight
Thursday, 24 September 2015
The Royal Canadian Yacht Club hosted a Wedding Planners Banquet
Michelle and I were invited to attend the Royal Canadian Yacht Club’s wedding planner’s banquet on Monday September 21st 2015 on the Toronto Island. It was a great opportunity for us to get to know a venue we haven’t visited before. We arrived by ferry from the Cherry Street port, and were delighted to see the view of the Toronto skyline on the way to the yacht club. [insert skyline view photo?] The Royal Canadian Yacht Club arranges private ferry transport for wedding guests. There is also regular ferry access back to the parking area for those who wish to leave before festivities are at an end. There are over 300 parking spots, and the walk from the docking area to the manor house is short and easy to navigate for all guests, even those with mobility issues.
The Royal Canadian Yacht Club is a beautiful old building – it looks more like a manor house or mansion. The front, side and back lawns are beautifully manicured with gardens and large old trees. There are a few spots on the lawns that make lovely wedding ceremony spots with the manor house in the background and the water and skyline in the foreground.
View from the beautiful lawns of the Royal Canadian Yacht Club
Once we entered the reception, we were served yummy prosecco cocktails with raspberries, sangria and other lovely cocktails at their generous open bar. We were also treated to several delicious appetizers that left us wanting more! Any couple who values great food for their wedding would certainly enjoy the selection.
We were treated to Malpeque oysters with fresh horseradish and vinaigrette, lobster bisque with crème fraîche served in chic white spoons, beef tartare with breadcrumbs and egg yolk, seared tuna, beets with goat cheese, and an assortment of pastries, macarons and chocolates for dessert.
Prosecco cocktails at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club
We had the opportunity to view the wedding hall, with its lovely high ceilings and elegant nautical feel. We viewed the incredible bridal suite – perfect for getting ready with the bridesmaids on the day of the wedding. We really loved that the Royal Canadian Yacht Club boasts something that few venues do – the ability to have it all: great food, a stunning venue, both waterfront and garden photo opportunities and indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces. We also love that the space is so naturally pretty that minimal décor is required.
As we left on the ferry to head back to mainland, we couldn’t help but dream of coordinating a wedding there next season! We can’t wait to go back! A very special and heartfelt thank you to the staff at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club – we had a great time and we are excited to work with you in the future!
To learn more about this venue or any of Toronto and the surrounding GTA’s finest wedding spots, contact us today!
Wedding Venues in the GTA: Volume 1: Unique Wedding Venues
Wednesday, 26 August 2015
Unique Wedding Venues in the GTA
If you’re in the process of planning a Toronto wedding, I’m sure you know how endless the possibilities are when it comes to choosing a venue. Planning a wedding in a city brimming with stunning wedding venues to choose from can become overwhelming very quickly. A wedding planner often comes in handy when it comes to this aspect of the planning, but if you’re on your own the options can seem endless. With all of these choices, how do you know what to look for?
Worry not, we’ve created a comprehensive list of wedding venues in the GTA to help you decide where to have your big day; this is only the first post of a new series where we will list a number wedding venues in and around the GTA. Focusing on the aesthetics of each venue, we’ve linked the website to each respective site below, so that you and inquire about pricing and decide which works best for your budget. For our first addition to this series, we’ve chosen unique and “artsy” venues that would likely be best suited for those who aren’t fond of garden gazebos and banquet halls, and who would like something a little different for their nuptials. Keep reading to find out what are some of our favorite wedding venues in the GTA!
Imagine the insane wedding pictures you’d be able to get, having your nuptials inside Toronto’s aquarium that houses jellyfish, stingrays, and a variety of exotic fish.
The only thing cooler than saying your I do’s alongside sharks is doing it beside dinosaurs. Choose to get married in your favorite exhibit at the ROM!
Located in Toronto’s quaint yet popular Distillery District, Arta Gallery exhibits world-class pieces from international artists.
Get married in the Gardiner Museum’s Terrace room, where you’ll have a stunning view of Queen’s Park through their floor-ceiling-windows. The ceramic pieces in the actual museum will have your guests raving!
Originally a stone distilling and milling building, the Fermenting Cellar features heavy timber beams and trusses, as well as Kingston limestone walls from its initial construction in 1861.
This multi-purpose lounge and venue space features incredible exposed brick walls, as well as tasteful vintage furniture that will transport you back to the 19th century Victorian era.
Located on Queen Street West and constantly featuring new exhibitions by a variety of artists and photographers, Twist gallery is the perfect venue for a modern, intimate wedding in the city.
Aside from the food, the architecture of this restaurant is the real stunner. High pine ceiling, concrete floors, exposed brick walls, and reclaimed timber bar and tables combine the contemporary style with the historic tradition of the Distillery District.
Originally built in 1907 as a department store, the Burroughes now functions as an event venue, boutique retail spaces, and office suites on the ever-trendy Queen Street West.
The University Club of Toronto
Prestigiously located on Toronto’s University Avenue in the heart of the city, the University Club of Toronto is an inspiring and historical space. To top it all off, there’s access to a treasured wine cellar!
It’s a castle… Need we say more? Doesn’t everyone dream about getting married in a castle? This Gothic revival style house and garden is located in midtown Toronto was built in 1911. It’s now a museum and landmark with decorated suites, secret passages, stately towers, estate gardens as well as luxurious stables
This is only a small portion of the available wedding venues in the GTA. If none of these sites pique your interest, look out for our next addition to this series, where we’ll be featuring more tradition banquet hall styled venues. Wedding Venues In The GTA.