Location inspiration for your Georgian Bay destination wedding
Image: Frances Beatty Photography
A lot has changed in the last year, (understatement) but one thing that remains the same is people are still falling in love and still planning weddings. Thank goodness for that! Can you imagine a world without love? Ooof! Not for me!
Destination weddings are one area that has changed. You may not be hopping on a plane anytime soon, but that doesn’t necessarily mean destination weddings are off the table. South Georgian Bay is quickly becoming a wedding destination for many within Ontario and out. It’s close enough to the GTA that you can drive, but also just far enough away that you can justify making a weekend of it. On top of that, there are tons of stunning options for wedding backdrops. Want a vineyard? We’ve got it. Looking for a barn? It’s here. Want a cozy cottage on the water? We have that. How about at the top of a ski hill? Yep. That too.
Whether you’re planning a larger event (with your fingers crossed), a micro-wedding, an intimate affair, or a cozy elopement, you don’t have to hop on a plane to have a stunning destination wedding. Here are some beautiful images from local locations to get you inspired.
Top things to consider when planning a destination wedding in Ontario in 2021:
Keep it personal. Pick a location that resonates with you. Someplace you’ll feel excited about and comfortable.
Ask about outdoor options. We’re all super hopeful that some sort of normal is on the horizon, but just in case, it’s a good idea to find out what options are available at your venue for keeping most, if not all, things outdoors.
Amenities. With family and friends coming from a distance, make sure you take a look at what’s available in terms of food, beverages, activities, and accommodation.
Accommodation. We’re going to single this one out. This area may not be on the tips of everyone’s tongue just yet, but the secret is out. Accommodations book up really far in advance, get on top of it sooner rather than later.
Be respectful. Just like with our engagement location post we encourage you to be mindful when planning any aspect of your wedding outdoors. Especially when it comes to photo locations. Follow the leave no trace rules, ask permission before using someone’s property for photos, and stay on the trails.
Get creative! Is there a venue you don’t see on here? Something you think would be just perfect for your wedding day? Reach out to that location and give it a shot!
Book in advance. Venues are typically the first thing that couples book, and with 2022 looking like a triple cohort year, they will book up quickly! If you have your heart set on something specific, reach out ASAP. You could always consider a weekday wedding. I have a sneaking suspicion that they may be super hot next year.
On the bay
Seems like a no-brainer, right? There are plenty of venues that are right on the bay. Serenity Cottage, Bear Estate, Lora Bay, to name a few. You could also look for a cottage to rent, or book a park for your ceremony proper.
Photography by Frances Beatty Photography, Sierra K Photography, Christine Reid Photography & Frances Beatty Photography
In the vineyard
One of our secrets? We are Ontario’s newest wine region. Yes! We grow grapes here and we make tasty wine too. Well, I don’t have a hand in it at all, but the folks who do, know what they’re doing. Consider Georgian Hills Vineyards as your wedding location.
Photography: Spring Morris
In the forest
This is an amazing option for an elopement. There’s something so magical about being surrounded by trees, and who doesn’t want magic on their wedding day?
Photography: Frances Beatty Photography
On the farm
Barn locations are still super popular, and even better if they also feature a stunning field to get married in. Consider Sequel Inn, Celtic Roots Equestrian Farm or Grandma Lambe’s in Meaford.
Photography: Jen Linfield Photography, Jennifer Van Son, Jessica Crandlemire
At the cottage
This is vote number two for Serenity Cottage. There are certainly other cottage options around, especially for elopements or intimate weddings. Even if you don’t end up getting married at one, you could consider booking one to stay in for the weekend of your wedding. Airbnb for the win right there.
Images: Christine Reid Photography & Fox Photography
At the ski club
South Georgian Bay is home to many private ski clubs that offer incredible locations for weddings. Whether you’re at the top of the hill looking down on the bay, or nestled into the hill surrounded by nature. We’re fans. Have a look at Osler Bluff, Georgian Peaks, Alpine, Craigleith, and Toronto Ski Club.
Images: Frances Beatty Photography
At the restaurant
If you’re planning a more intimate or micro-wedding, you could easily think outside the box and put food first. Not all restaurants advertise that they do weddings, but may make an exception if you ask. Some of the restaurants we’ve seen host weddings in the past are Bent Taco, The Tremont Cafe, Sumac + Salt at Good Family Farms. Also, we’re going to shamelessly plug a couple of other places you should go eat at even if they won’t host your wedding: Hearts, The Pine, Casero Kitchen Table, Lowdown. You could also check out a brewery like Collingwood Brewery. Chances are you’re going to get hungry while you’re in town for your wedding. Might as well head to the tastiest spots.
Image: Jessica Crandlemire
At the falls
One of our poorly kept secrets is that there are some beautiful waterfalls around here. Now do be gentle when going to visit any of the falls and keep in mind the Leave No Trace rules and sticking to the trails. (Can you tell we’re big lovers of nature and hate seeing it abused?) If you’re looking to get married by a waterfall, consider The Falls Inn & Spa at Walter’s Falls.
Images: Loni Carroll Photography & The Photography Co.
