Destination WEDDING
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By NaNcy ForNasiero
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niagra-onthe-lake
beautiful
DO YOU THINK the terms “extraordinary” and “made-in-Ontario” can’t logically coexist in a destination-wedding plan? Then you forgot to consider beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake. Sumptuous historic landmarks, laid-back rural settings, stunning outdoor vistas, and much more can be found in this on-trend destination located just a short drive from Niagara Falls. Home to world-famous wineries, abundant fruit farms, picturesque parks, top-notch golf courses, lively pubs and restaurants, and some of the oldest heritage sites in the country, NOTL is an area that’s hard to characterize as any one thing. That’s what makes it so attractive to anyone planning a wedding that aspires to go beyond the usual. Plus NOTL’s
history
proven track record of excellence in tourism guarantees that guests will enjoy not just a memorable experience, but also one that’s uncomplicated and stress-free. With so many options, how to plan? Begin by visiting VineyardBride.ca, an expertly curated site that inspires by showcasing the region’s best weddings, and connects couples to pre-screened, quality vendors. One of these is Laura Beck (thevenuecounsellor.com) who has insider details about all the tried-and-true NOTL venues, as well as many exclusive out -of-the-ordinary location ideas. To give just a taste, Laura has recently helped couples tie the knot in an Italianate villa, an 1800s stone mansion, a whitewashed barn on a cherry farm, and in a hipster brewery.
getting there NOTL is a 90-minute drive from Pearson International Airport. A variety of public transit and private shuttle or limo services are available.
CANAdA’s OwN NIAgArA-ONThe-LAke PrOvIdes quAINT rOmANCe…ANd wINe.
Laura cautions couples to remember that “wineries are primarily in the business of making wine,” so although some do accommodate weddings, they’re often not as flexible and available as one might hope. Luckily she has no shortage of suggestions for alternatives, whether for fun, budgetconscious celebrations or extravagant affairs. The Vintage Hotel group is another good resource, especially if you’re the type who appreciates a no-fail template based on hundreds of successful weddings. They manage three acclaimed properties: The Queens Landing, with its southern glamour and charm; the Pillar and Post, a former canning factory with a country feel; and The Prince of Wales hotel which exudes royal opulence. Not to be forgotten are the area’s adorable Heritage Inns and B&Bs. They’re ideal for wedding guests’ accommodations, and also as venues for intimate weddings or rehearsal parties. Some, in particular the chic Woodbourne Inn, offer packages where the whole house is reserved as a “hub” for the family and/or wedding party. Guests have a place to pop in upon arrival to town, cocktail parties are held, and everyone gathers for a gourmet brunch; basically the inn becomes a relaxing and convenient home away from home. An added benefit is that NOTL has no shortage of diversions that can be enjoyed before or after the wedding – activities like wine and foodie tours, world-renowned theatre, shopping, hiking, sailing, boating, and more. Whether you’re aiming for traditional elegance or a boho country vibe, this easy-toaccess region has everything you’ll need to transform your unique wedding vision into reality.
places to host your wedding › › › › ›
The hare wine Co. theharewineco.com/estate willowbank historic site willowbank.ca white Oaks resort and spa whiteoaksresort.com kurtz Orchards kurtzorchards.com Chateau des Charmes fromtheboscfamily.com
d est i n at i onweddingm agazine .ca • 23