My hope is that you’re newly engaged and you’re officially on the hunt for an incredible, beautiful and unique venue that speaks to your soul (yes, venues can do that). First off, I’m genuinely so happy for you. Being engaged is such an exciting chapter in your lives so YAY! Secondly, I was a bride once too, so I’m here to help you out.
Planning a wedding can be hard, and finding a venue is most often the first or second vendor you’ll secure. There are so many venues in Ontario that the start of your search can have you feeling just a touch overwhelmed. From stunning outdoor venues, to modern art galleries or chic downtown restaurants… there are a lot of options to choose from.
In this blog I’ve pieced together 18 of the most unique wedding venues in Ontario. I’ve linked each venue and have even provided a little snippet as to why you might want to get married at each location – besides being a cut above the rest, they all have their own pièce de résistance.
Scroll down to explore some of these exceptional venues… and don’t forget to let me know which ones you’re obsessed with.
City Weddings:
The Art Gallery of Ontario is listed first here for a reason – it’s a truly incredible space. Where art and architecture collide, if you’re looking to make a statement on your wedding day, this place is it. The art within the AGO is one of a kind to start, pair that with the whimsical staircases, sky high glass walls and never-ending scope of natural light and shadow play. No words, except spectacular.
The Fermenting Cellar is architecturally so unique, and very reminiscent of old-world Europe. From the limestone walls to the timber beams, the fermenting cellar is a chic industrial space that will absolutely have your guests talking. On top of all of this, the food is spectacular and the executive chef in this space is always dedicated to creating intentional dishes from only the most local of ingredients.
Aquatopia Water Garden Conservatory is located in Carp, just outside of Ottawa. Probably not the typical city venue you’d have in mind, but this one is special. This place is a tropical oasis: picture as many tropical plants in one building as you can, a koi fish pond, and all of the natural light you could imagine, and you’re in Aquatopia. It doesn’t matter what time of the year you get married here, either. It’s a warm and inviting oasis year-round.
Hotel X Toronto When you think of a modern, chic city wedding, where do you think of? For me, it’s Hotel X in Toronto. Though there are multiple choices for your ceremony and reception across the property, the glass New Fort Hall are absolutely stunning, and the views of the city are unmatched.
Evergreen Brick Works is centrally located in Toronto, but you would never know you’re in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world. Tranquil is a great work to describe this space, as it is surrounded by the ravines and a number of architecturally inspiring heritage buildings. With multiple spaces to choose from, there are so many ways to make this eclectic venue your own.
Outdoor Weddings:
Windermere House is located in the heart of Muskoka overlooking Lake Rosseau, and this place is sheer perfection, naturally. If I had to use two words to describe this venue, I would say rustic fused with elegance. The sky is the limit for your wedding portraits – wherever you go, they WILL be stunning. If you’re a laidback couple looking for a unique space with a touch of fancy, Windermere is your place. Bonus – they offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces.
Cambium Farms if you’re looking for country elegance, Cambium Farms has all of it and more. Located on 50 acres of charming farmland in Caledon Hills, you can choose from two event spaces depending on the size of your event. The barn has these incredible exposed beams, screaming to be your canvas, while the Byre is a more intimate event space boasting the coolest old stone walls.
Whispering Springs is such a fun spot. Located in Grafton, just east of Toronto, it’s tucked into the most picturesque forest. If you’re looking for a unique space for your small wedding, this is it. You’ll have private access to the property, which includes the reception space, ceremony space, outdoor hearing sources, if need be, pools AND hot tubs. Like I said, fun spot!
Doctor’s House is for lovers.. I mean, I know all wedding venues are but if your wedding day vision includes the word “romantic” then you really should plan a visit. This venue has all of the small town charm you could imagine, but is located just outside of Toronto. With options for outdoor and indoor ceremonies, bridal suites, perfectly manicured gardens, the cutest chapel you ever did see, there is so much to love about this venue.
ESTATE WEDDINGS:
Graydon Hall Manor is quite possibly one of the most elegant venues on this list. Located in North York, this venue has both indoor and outdoor spaces for your wedding – the historical manor itself, or the stunning 160-foot-long terrace surrounded by pristine gardens.
Paletta Mansion if you’re looking for an idyllic hidden gem, this is it. The 14 acres of grounds are truly breathtaking, including sweeping vistas, stunning views of Lake Ontario, and immaculate gardens throughout. You will feel like royalty rolling up to this venue, and an added bonus is that it’s one in the GTA that isn’t overdone at all.
Belcroft Estate is for your if you’re looking for charm. Located in Innisfil, Belcroft is a family run estate and it’s quite literally the perfect backdrop for a wedding ceremony. Choose from the belroft barn or the draped marquee tent, but know that whichever you choose, the entire estate is absolutely incredible. With multiple getting ready suites and the idyllic tree lined laneway, this venue is picturesque whichever way you look.
Heritage Estate Winery is a 40-acre vineyard located in Barrie and trust me when I say it has everything you’d want for your wedding day. On top of producing their own wines and ciders, the tents are glass enclosed, giving off that grandiose vibe, if that’s your thing. Add some drapery and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to somewhere you’ve never been before.
Langdon Hall is iconic. Situated on a very private lot of land in Cambridge, this venue is best described as modern meets historic. The hall is perfect for intimate affairs of up to 75 guests. Looking at this space, you might not be surprised to hear that the food is exemplary. But the chefs kiss? The renowned spa that not only provides an experience for you, but your guests as well. From a photography stance, this venue is perfection – from the open grounds, the buildings themselves, to the incredible gardens, there is no shortage of picturesque locations for your wedding portraits.
GARDEN WEDDINGS
Madison Green House is not like your typical greenhouse – think trees surrounding your dinner tables, greenery perfectly draped from the ceiling, and the most golden of golden hours you could imagine. This place is magic, in all four seasons. The greenhouse is perfectly lit for when the sun goes down too, twinkly lights and warm ambient lighting absolutely ooze romance.
Northview Gardens is located in Peterborough, Ontario, and has become well known for its stunningly lush gardens. It boasts a rustic barn for your reception, and looks quite lovely with the mood lights during dinner with your guests. The only catch here is that you have to get married between May and October so dates are always limited!
Century Barn is another one close to Peterborough, located in Cavan. This place was built by hand, and with love, in the 1800s, and it remains in the same family. It’s the generational charm that makes this space so unique. There are so many quirks and thoughtful touches at this venue, probably because it has been around for some time. Expect your ceremony to take place in the gardens, and your reception in the barn.
100 Acre Wood has been on my radar for some time now, and for many reasons. Located in Prince Edward County, the lands are peaceful, beautiful, and intentional. If food is important for you, know that everything served here is either grown on the property our sourced as local as possible. They offer not just a place to get married, but an entire experience in itself that nobody else is offering.
Image below taken from Google.
Are you newly engaged? Such incredible news, I'm so happy for you and your forever person. If you're currently looking for your wedding photographer, then let's talk! It's an honour I don't take lightly and I would be so touched to be there to capture such an important day for you both.
Chelsea
xx