As the Officiant for the popup weddings at the Ganaraska Forest Centre I am having so much fun planning ceremonies in the forest for all of the lucky couples who have booked in so far – winter weddings are also an option, inside or outside! If you are interested in getting married in the forest please call Amy at 905-885-8173 ext 322.
Evan and Ian chose August 23rd for their wedding and they got the most perfect weather! Not too hot, not too cold, and the forests was lush and full of life!
I worked with them to create the most perfect ceremony for their big day and together we decided on the readings (which may have included the lyrics to a Cranberry’s song because I thought they are just that cool), and they wrote their own vows which they read from vow books I created for them.
My office in the forest! I love working here because it is just such a magical place…I’ve often heard guests ask if there are faeries in this forest. Of course there are! And if you are very still and listen closely you might just hear one giggling or see one flit past you as you wait for the wedding to begin!
The outdoor ceremony site at the Ganaraska Forest Centre is there year round and has a little stream right behind the altar/arch. ProTip – the outdoor ceremony site is down a big set of stairs so wear flat shoes for the journey in and out and change into your wedding shoes at the top and bottom of the stairs. I say this because the first time I did a wedding in the forest I didn’t know about the stairs and wore heels the whole time and as much as I’m used to being in heels running around at weddings and funerals and my legs were SO tired from all the stairs and balancing on the forest floor. Save your legs for the dancing!
After the ceremony I got to check out their cake and lunch! I love the sunflower theme and how the caterer made magic for them! How sweet are those little sunflower cupcakes!
I love when weddings have a theme or colour scheme! Yellow sunflowers ruled the day and made everyone smile! Such a cheery flower!
Ian is a super funny person so we were laughing the whole time! It took us a few tries to get the official photo but I love this one of us cracking up!
How sweet are they? Such a lovely couple and I am so happy Evan and Ian got to get married in a way that is authentic and felt good for them.
Happiest at Weddings! I love my job and am having a blast serving the Ganaraska Forest Centre couples all summer and now into the winter! See you at the altar!
Want to get married in the forest too? Invite your loved ones to join you for a 3-hour event, beginning with a ceremony in stunning Maple Valley for up to 50 people (or 25 indoors), followed by an indoor or outdoor reception at the GFC. Local Officiant Avril Ewing (that’s me!), will be conducting the wedding ceremonies, while Divine Dining will cater the receptions.
Fees for GFC pop-up weddings begin at $2,500.00. This includes an officiated ceremony, hors d’oeurvres and non-alcoholic punch, a sound system for the first dance and speeches, as well as dishware and table coverings for the tables in the rustic picnic shelter or in the Great Hall. Couples are invited to decorate the spaces however they choose; a ‘leave the space as you find it’ DIY-style design. If your special day was turned upside down by the pandemic, and you’re looking for a simple yet memorable event, contact Amy Griffiths at the GRCA – agriffiths@grca.on.ca / 905.885.8173 ext 322.
You Might Also Like
Things You Don’t Want to DIY For Your Wedding
How to Set Up a Gorgeous Dessert Table
7 Photos with Your Bridesmaids You Wont Want to Miss
How to Save Money on Your Dream Wedding
Where to Begin Your Wedding Planning
5 Simple Tips to Take the Stress Out of Wedding Planning
Halloween Wedding Ideas
5 Reasons You Might Need a Wedding Planner or Coach
Things to Consider When Selecting a Wedding Venue
Why an Officiant Charges as Much as They Do
Why You Should Hire a Professional Officiant
Parental Estrangement and Wedding Drama
Avril Ewing Officiant & Celebrant 