Elmhirst's Resort
All-season waterfront wedding venue on Rice Lake in the Kawarthas, 90 minutes from Toronto, with cottages, on-site dining, and signature enhancements like float plane arrivals.
About
Elmhirst's Resort is a fifth-generation family-owned lakeside cottage resort set on 240 acres along Rice Lake in the Kawarthas, Ontario. It's a picturesque all-season wedding destination with multiple indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, private reception rooms, and 30 waterfront guest cottages available for your wedding party.
The resort handles the full wedding experience. You get an on-site event coordinator for day-of planning, custom farm-to-table menus featuring ingredients from their working farm, and their Hearthside Dining Room with lake views. Their signature touches include in-house coordination, float plane ceremony arrivals or departures, horse-drawn carriage or sleigh rides, wine cellar tastings, and pontoon boat excursions. There's also an on-site spa for bridal party treatments, rehearsal dinner hosting, and pre-wedding celebrations.
Located just 90 minutes from Toronto, the resort is convenient for destination weddings and offers packages ranging from intimate elopements to full celebrations. Whether you're looking for summer garden ceremonies or winter wonderland backdrops, Elmhirst's works year-round.
Packages
The Elopement
- 2-night cottage accommodation with private deck and full kitchen
- Welcome bottle of sparkling wine
- Breakfast both mornings
- Private ceremony space on outdoor boardwalk under pergola with lake views
- On-site event coordinator (day of)
- Formal three-course plated dinner for two in dining room overlooking Rice Lake
The Micro Wedding
- 2-night cottage accommodation with private deck and full kitchen
- Breakfast both mornings
- Private ceremony space on outdoor boardwalk under pergola with lake views
- On-site event coordinator (day of)
- Formal three-course plated dinner in semi-private dining area with lake views
- Event room setup including tables, chairs, and linens
The Effortless Package
- On-site event coordinator (day of)
- Private space for receptions and dinner
- Chef's favourite barbecue-style dishes made in-house, served family style
- All service items including linens, glassware, and cutlery
- Hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour
- Cash, host, or hybrid bar options
The Classic Package
- On-site event coordinator (day of)
- Classic three-course plated dinner
- All service items including linens, glassware, and cutlery
- Hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour
- Cash, host, or hybrid bar options
The Elegant Package
- On-site event coordinator (day of)
- Formal four-course plated service
- Sparkling toast for every guest poured upon seating
- All service items including linens, glassware, and cutlery
- Hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour
- Cash, host, or hybrid bar options
FAQs
What season is best for a wedding at Elmhirst's?
Elmhirst's is an all-season wedding destination. Summer offers vibrant lakeside ceremonies with waterfront views, while winter provides cozy celebrations and dramatic snowy backdrops. Spring and fall also bring their own natural beauty. The resort operates year-round and can customize your celebration regardless of the season.
Can we accommodate our wedding guests overnight at the resort?
Yes. Elmhirst's has 30 waterfront guest cottages available for your wedding party. These self-contained lakefront cottages come with full kitchens, fireplaces, and private decks overlooking Rice Lake. Please note that availability is limited in July and August due to peak season demand, so it's best to contact the resort early to discuss options.
What signature enhancements does the resort offer for weddings?
Elmhirst's offers unique touches including an on-site wedding coordinator, float plane ceremony arrivals or departures, horse-drawn carriage or sleigh rides, wine cellar tastings, and pontoon boat excursions. The resort also has an on-site spa for bridal party treatments, and can host rehearsal dinners, welcome gatherings, and farewell brunches.
Is this a waterfront venue?
Elmhirst's Resort features scenic waterfront/oceanfront views at select locations.
Service areas: Elmhirst's Resort serves Toronto, Kawarthas & Peterborough. They may accommodate additional locations, please contact them to learn more.
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