Category Archives: Wedding Planning

As April unfolded its gentle embrace over Toronto, we embarked on a captivating journey through the city’s most cherished wedding venue hotels. Amidst the vibrant pulse of the metropolis, we discovered a tapestry woven with elegance, history, and timeless allure. Each venue exuded its own unique ambiance, inviting us into a realm where luxury intertwined seamlessly with the rich heritage of Toronto. From stately ballrooms adorned with crystal chandeliers to intimate garden settings bathed in the soft glow of twilight, these venues whispered tales of romance and celebration. Embarking on this odyssey, we found ourselves immersed in the essence of Toronto’s past, present, and future, where every corner held the promise of a perfect wedding day. We’re thrilled to delve into our experiences and shed light on why these hotels are ideal settings for hosting weddings and a myriad of celebrations in between. Keep reading!

1. The Ritz-Carlton

Nestled amidst Toronto’s iconic skyline, The Ritz-Carlton Toronto stands as an epitome of elegance and sophistication, offering an unparalleled wedding venue experience. Boasting two expansive floors dedicated to events, including the city’s largest ballroom, this esteemed hotel effortlessly captures the essence of grandeur and luxury. The Ritz-Carlton ballroom, spanning 7,400 square feet with majestic 18-foot ceilings, provides a breathtaking setting for celebrations of up to 500 guests. Adjacent to this opulent space lies the Grand Foyer, adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic vistas of the cityscape, creating an enchanting ambiance for pre-function receptions or intimate ceremonies. For those seeking a more intimate setting, the Wellington Ballroom provides a refined space accommodating up to 200 guests, perfect for cherished gatherings and heartfelt moments. With its impeccable location and unmatched splendor, The Ritz-Carlton Toronto sets the stage for unforgettable weddings and special occasions, where every detail is meticulously curated to exceed expectations.

2. The St. Regis Toronto

Nestled within the heart of Toronto’s vibrant landscape, the St. Regis Toronto stands as a beacon of chic modernity, offering a captivating backdrop for weddings of distinction. From the moment you step into the hotel’s main lobby, adorned with the Astor Lounge, you’re enveloped in an ambiance of sophistication and style. For those seeking a unique setting, the Astor Lounge serves as a delightful space for cocktail receptions, while each ballroom boasts its own pre-function area, ensuring an intimate atmosphere for guests. With two exquisite ballrooms to choose from, the St. Regis Ballroom, accommodating up to 320 guests, and the Astor Ballroom, hosting up to 240 guests, the hotel offers flexibility and elegance in equal measure. Moreover, the allure of Louix Louix, perched on the 31st floor, presents an enchanting option for rehearsal dinners or bridal showers, where guests can savor delectable cuisine amidst breathtaking views of the city skyline. Whether exchanging vows in one of the grand ballrooms or indulging in culinary delights at Louix Louix, the St. Regis Toronto promises an unforgettable wedding experience, defined by refinement and luxury at every turn.

3. Shangri-La Toronto

Nestled along Toronto’s iconic University Avenue, Shangri-La Toronto beckons couples to embark on a journey of timeless elegance and breathtaking vistas. With its array of event spaces, including a captivating outdoor terrace ideal for cocktail hours, the hotel offers the perfect setting for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The Museum Room, adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows and 13 resplendent glass chandeliers, sets a radiant stage for exchanging vows amidst unparalleled city views. For larger receptions, the Queen’s Park Ballroom, graced with elegant wood-paneled walls, provides a sophisticated ambiance for up to 350 guests to revel in the festivities. Meanwhile, the outdoor garden terrace offers a tranquil retreat for cocktail receptions, where guests can bask in the serenity and soak in the majestic Downtown Toronto skyline. Completing the experience, the Screening Room offers a cozy haven for pre-wedding festivities or entertainment for young guests, ensuring every moment at Shangri-La Toronto is infused with beauty, luxury, and joy.

4. Park Hyatt Toronto

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s upscale Yorkville district, the Park Hyatt Hotel beckons couples with its unrivaled views of the city skyline. The Terrace Room, with its panoramic vistas, offers an intimate setting for receptions of up to 90 guests, creating a picturesque backdrop for cherished celebrations. Ascending to the third floor, guests are welcomed into the grandeur of the Park Hyatt Ballroom, capable of accommodating up to 600 guests, complete with a stunning foyer adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows, ideal for pre-function gatherings. A hallmark of the Park Hyatt’s charm is its iconic black staircase, a beloved feature renowned for providing the perfect backdrop for timeless wedding photos, capturing moments of romance and elegance. With its blend of sophistication, versatility, and unparalleled views, the Park Hyatt Hotel stands as a quintessential choice for couples seeking a truly memorable wedding experience in the heart of Toronto.

5. Fairmont Royal York

Nestled in the heart of Toronto’s bustling downtown, the Fairmont Royal York stands as an iconic symbol of timeless elegance and grandeur. With a rich history spanning over 90 years, the esteemed hotel has been meticulously reimagined to offer an unparalleled experience, blending impeccable style with historic charm. Boasting spectacular function spaces capable of accommodating up to 1,670 guests, the Fairmont Royal York sets the stage for unforgettable weddings and grand celebrations. From the majestic Concert Hall, adorned with soaring ceilings and crystal chandeliers, to the Ballroom exuding Italian-inspired opulence, each venue exudes a sense of splendor reminiscent of the 1920s. With four main rooms, including the Imperial Room, Ballroom, Concert Hall, and Canadian Room, couples are presented with a myriad of elegant options to bring their dream wedding to life in the most luxurious locale Toronto has to offer.

Bridal shower season is upon us, and it’s time to celebrate the bride-to-be in style! Planning a bridal shower can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with the right tips and tricks, you can create a memorable event that the bride and her guests will cherish forever. In this blog, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan the perfect bridal shower this season.

Set the Date and Budget

The first step in planning a bridal shower is to choose a date that works for the bride and her guests. Consider scheduling the shower a few months before the wedding to give the bride plenty of time to relax and enjoy the festivities. Once you have a date in mind, it’s essential to establish a budget to ensure that you stay on track with your planning.

Create the Guest List and Invitations

Next, compile a guest list with input from the bride, and send out invitations well in advance to give guests ample time to RSVP. Whether you opt for traditional paper invitations or digital invites, make sure to include all the necessary details, such as the date, time, location, and RSVP information. Consider incorporating the bridal shower theme into the invitation design for an added touch of personalization.

Choose a Theme and Decor

Selecting a theme is a fun way to tie all aspects of the bridal shower together and create a cohesive look and feel. From a rustic garden party to a chic brunch affair, the possibilities are endless. Once you’ve chosen a theme, let your creativity shine with coordinating decor elements such as table linens, centerpieces, signage, and favors. Consider DIY projects and budget-friendly decor options to add a personal touch to the celebration. Check out these tablescapes that we put together for some inspiration this season!

Plan the Menu and Refreshments

Food and drinks are essential components of any bridal shower, so be sure to plan a menu that will delight the bride and her guests. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, luncheon, or afternoon tea, consider serving a variety of delicious bites and refreshing beverages to satisfy all tastes. Don’t forget to take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences among the guests and incorporate them into your menu planning.

Organize Fun Activities and Games

Keep guests entertained throughout the bridal shower with a variety of fun activities and games. From classic games like bridal bingo to unique activities tailored to the bride’s interests, there are plenty of options to choose from. Consider incorporating interactive elements such as photo booths, crafting stations, or DIY projects to keep guests engaged and create lasting memories.

Select Thoughtful Gifts and Favors

Show the bride-to-be how much she’s loved and appreciated with thoughtful gifts and favours. Consider creating a registry to make gift-giving easier for guests, or encourage them to bring sentimental gifts that reflect the bride’s personality and interests. As a token of appreciation, provide guests with personalized favors to thank them for celebrating this special occasion with the bride.

Planning a bridal shower is a labour of love, but with careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a celebration that the bride and her guests will cherish for years to come. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a lavish affair, use this guide to help you plan the perfect bridal shower for the bride-to-be in your life. Happy shower planning!