Getting Married in Toronto: When Love Hits, It Does Not Stop

Planning a wedding in Toronto? From City Hall elopements to grand venues like Casa Loma, discover costs, tips, and insider advice to make your Toronto wedding unforgettable.

They say love knows no bounds, and in Toronto, it certainly doesn’t stop at city limits. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestones of the Distillery District, sipping cocktails at the Fairmont Royal York, or exploring the gothic splendour of Casa Loma, the city has a knack for making hearts—and Instagram feeds—skip a beat. Even a quick ferry to Toronto Islands gives skyline shots so breathtaking you might start wondering if your love story deserves a movie deal.

But before you start daydreaming, let’s break down how to get married in Toronto—and how much it’s going to cost.

Marriage Licences: The First Step

If you’re eloping, Toronto City Hall has you covered. A marriage licence costs about $150, and any city hall in Ontario works. Keep in mind, it’s only valid for 90 days, so timing matters.

Next, you’ll need a registered wedding officiant—this can be a judge, city clerk, or someone ordained by a religious body. Not every pastor, rabbi, or imam qualifies automatically, so make sure your officiant is officially authorised.

The ceremony itself is delightfully simple: you, your spouse, and two witnesses sign the paperwork. You’ll receive an immediate certificate, and the full copy is sent to Thunder Bay for processing. Within six weeks, you’ll get your long-form certificate (ideal for legal or immigration purposes) and wallet-sized certificate for everyday use. The long-form costs less than $50 and is well worth it if you foresee any official paperwork down the line.

Choosing Your Venue: From Cozy to Grand

Toronto offers venues for every style and budget.

• Distillery District: Cobblestones, historic charm, and artisan shops make this perfect for quirky, romantic weddings.

• Royal York Hotel: Classic elegance, chandeliers, and top-notch service make you feel like royalty.

• Casa Loma: Gothic architecture, towers, and secret passageways—ideal for fairy-tale vibes.

• Toronto Islands: Waterfront views with the skyline as your backdrop.

For budget-conscious couples, community centres or smaller venues offer charm without the high cost. If you’re inviting a larger guest list, especially during the peak spring and summer wedding season, be prepared for prices that climb fast. Winter and fall weddings often come with discounts—bonus if you’re okay with a crisp breeze during photos.

Food, Decor, and Planners: Making It Memorable

From catering to florals, décor, and entertainment, wedding logistics can feel overwhelming. Hiring a wedding planner is often a godsend. Planners navigate contracts, timelines, and tricky details (like making sure Aunt Margie isn’t seated next to Uncle Bob after that feud in 2012). Expect to pay a couple thousand dollars depending on whether you hire them for the month leading up or just for the day-of, but the peace of mind is priceless.

And don’t skimp on photography. Professional photos capture laughter, tears, and those little moments you don’t notice while saying “I do.” Memories last a lifetime, and photos are forever.

Toronto-Specific Tips

• Getting Around: Downtown traffic can be brutal. Consider public transit, ferries, or even renting a classic streetcar for a whimsical touch.

• Local Vendors: Toronto has an incredible range of florists, bakers, and musicians who specialise in weddings. Markets and artisanal shops provide unique decor items and treats.

• Photo Opportunities: Queen West graffiti walls, sunsets at Polson Pier, and the historic PATH system make for unique and memorable wedding photos.

• Cultural Touches: Toronto’s multicultural community makes it easy to include traditions, from Jewish Sheva Brachot to Chinese tea ceremonies.

• Rooftop and Waterfront Venues: For couples dreaming of a dramatic skyline backdrop, look for rooftop patios or waterfront banquet halls—they’re surprisingly magical for evening weddings.

• Seasonal Considerations: Summer weddings are popular for obvious reasons, but fall and winter weddings can offer beautiful lighting, fewer crowds, and better deals on vendors.

Costs: How Much Will It Set You Back?

Toronto weddings range widely in cost. Here’s a quick guide:

• City Hall elopement: $150 for the licence, plus $50 extra for the long-form certificate.

• Small community centre or local hall: A few hundred dollars to rent.

• Hotels and historic venues: Several thousand dollars, depending on guest count and date.

• Food and drink: Can range from $50–$150 per guest.

• Decor, flowers, entertainment: Easily another few thousand.

• Wedding planner: A couple thousand, depending on scope.

Tip: Don’t let anyone pressure you into spending more than you’re comfortable with. Your wedding is yours, and there are plenty of ways to have a beautiful celebration without going into debt.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, remember: it’s your wedding and your marriage. Don’t let anyone pressure you into overspending, inviting too many guests, or choosing a venue that doesn’t feel right. Toronto may be big and bustling, but your love story doesn’t have to compete with the CN Tower—it just needs to be real, memorable, and undeniably yours.

Whether you elope at City Hall with just a licence and a smile or plan a grand affair in the heart of downtown, Toronto has a little bit of magic for every couple. After all, when love hits, it doesn’t stop… and neither should your celebration.