There’s an adage that claims “Everything old is new again”; Old Mill Toronto venue, a city treasure nestled in the historic Kingsway suburb of west Toronto is living proof of that.
With the help of some of its preferred vendors, The Old Mill put out a call to all newly engaged couples and their loved ones, to drop by and check out their stunning, landmark venue.
The evening was tastefully appointed and hosted by the very elegant staff and social event planners of the Old Mill. The photographs were artfully shot by Ian Linawag who moonlights not only as a camera maverick, but also as a DJ and planner himself.
We began our tour shortly before the majority of guests arrived, giving me the perfect opportunity for a sneak peak at some of the stunning details, starting with the Royal Oak Room. Decked out with stunning floral decor from our friends at Creations by Gitta, this breathtaking dining area is brimming with rich, decadent old-world charm – perfect for intimate family gatherings.
Concept and Design courtesy of Weddings by Design
Charger plates provided by Right Choice Linen Rentals, Menus courtesy of Small Impressions, and Glass/Cutlery courtesy of Event Rental Group
The Balmoral Room showcased a more subdued and traditional aesthetic; complete with clean linens, cream colours, and cozy appeal.
Guild Hall showcased beautifully with its stunning hardwood floors, cross beam ceilings, and detailed wainscoting.
The Westminster Room served as the main hub for the selected vendors that evening. Milling about brought me back to why the elegance and quiet charm of the old Tudor mansion appeals for so many brides and grooms.
A saunter over to the back of the room left me wowed! Helen Pispidikis, principal at Weddings by Design, created a most exquisite display for any guest table or head table. Guilded and green, her linens of sage and mint flowed as tapered candle sticks flickered above the artful centerpiece which included white garden roses, stock and seeded eucalyptus. Brass accents and chairs (by Luxe Rentals) surrounded the piece in such a distinct elegance that I let out a little “whoop” when I saw them (brass is the ‘in’ colour for 2017, by the way…).
Florals designed by Nous Design Group
As the event begins, I am immediately greeted by the smiling and experienced bartenders offering me sparkling or flat, or perhaps a white wine? I choose sparkling (to go with my shoes) and peruse around further.
The Old Mill is unique in that they have on-site services available for the couple who might be having trouble locating a perfect match for flowers, cakes, makeup and hair. Their bakers, florists and artists all come equipped with any number of options for the day and this allows for a one-stop-shop potential (you can even stay overnight in the hotel portion of the venue!). But for those seeking a truly custom option, so many wonderful designers were on hand to bolster the experience.
I was so happy to see my old friend and peer, Maria Drewnowska, matriarch of Patricia's Cake Creations, on hand displaying some of her finest confectioneries. Whether your taste is a traditional tiered masterpiece or a more simple but impactful amuse-bouche (there were sea foam iced-donuts at one table’s individual place setting suggesting dessert before dinner! Genius!), Patricia can concoct nearly any design to suit style and budget.
Over on the right side, I was introduced to Liz, new owner of Chair Decor. The all-silver-sequinned overlay obviously caught my attention, but her ease and charm and knowledge of the industry won me over. I made a mental note to consult her next time my clients are looking for a unique piece to uplift an accent table or beyond!
A host of other great possibilities including the DJs of Maximum Music and the on-site AV wizards of AV-Canada rounded out the must-have vendors to visit if you are considering this venue.
A final trip to the always fun Snapz Photo Booth left me selfie happy, and mugging with my best “blue steel”. In just under 40 seconds, you can take tangible memories of your event with all your bff’s that you can cram into their customized photo cubicle.
If old world charm, whimsical nostalgia and a hearkening for the grace of centuries by gone stirs your senses, The Old Mill is a wonderful consideration for any wedding, milestone or celebration.
