FAQ

The ceremony will be held on Friday, October 1, 2021 at St. Anselm Parish, Toronto and will commence at 2:00PM.

Click here for information on directions.

Toronto is home to some absolutely fabulous hotels and a vast selection of Airbnbs. On account of that, we encourage you to look around based on your personal preferences. That said, we have been able to secure a group rate at one of the only hotels that is truly proximate to our venues, that being the Pan Pacific Hotel Toronto.

Visit our Hotel Options page to take advantage of this preferential rate.

The discount code to input (more information on our Hotel Options page) is: 0101WEDD

We cannot currently say with much certainty, but based on the historic averages in Toronto, Friday, October 1 will have high of 17°C (63°F) and a low of 9°C (48°F) with a 43% PoP (Probability of Precipitation). The rest of the weekend will feel similar.

We will update this answer day-by-day starting Friday, September 17, 2021 (two weeks before ceremony).

Click here to view the 14-day forecast in Toronto.

The city of Toronto is blessed with generally stable, accessible infrastructure through to its city limits. That said, driving or using transit are both perfectly viable options. Below are some things to think about when deciding which method to use.

Driving:

• The core of the city and the city's surrounding neighbourhoods are well attached by roadways. The Don Valley Parkway and Highway 401 act as the main arteries in and around the city, with multiple exits that are proximate to our ceremony and reception. That said, construction is common in the city centre so be prepared if you plan to tour on Saturday. Additionally, Toronto's parking can be notoriously expensive and limited in supply, again, especially in the city centre. Further still, the 401 is one of the largest highways in the world (16 lanes total) and can be overwhelming for visitors. Please respect your own boundaries when deciding to use it, and remember there are alternative routes available to you (Finch Avenue, Sheppard Avenue, Don Mills Road, Avenue Road, etc.).

Transit:

• The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates a well connected subway, bus and streetcar system that extends through every crevice of the city. Detailed information on pricing can be found below, but you can essentially expect to pay CAD$3.25 per trip. It operates across 4 train lines which house 75 stations, 140 bus routes and 11 streetcar routes. This enables you to get around the city relatively inexpensively without having to worry about parking. As extensive as the line itself is, it can be prone to delays and/or closures due to track maintenance (on the weekends) and, notoriously, bus&streetcar break-downs. We will update this section if we come across any planned closures that will affect your ability to navigate the city. Below are a list of the 4 lines mentioned for your convenience.

  • Line 1/Yonge-University-Spadina Line/ Yellow Line: runs North-South through the city. Provides access to Downtown. Most tourist attractions are easily accessed via this line. Davisville Station and York Mills Station are on this line, which are the stations closest to our ceremony and reception, respectively. Click here for access to detailed directions to our ceremony and reception.

  • Line 2/Bloor-Danforth Line/Green Line: runs East-West through the city. Provides access to the neighbourhoods surrounding the core. Popular food neighbourhoods such as Little Italy and The Danforth can be accessed via Ossington Station and Pape Station, respectively.

  • Line 3/SRT/Blue Line: extends east of the city into Scarborough, a large suburb of Toronto.

  • Line 4/ Don Mills Line/ Purple Line: extends to the northeast quarter of the city.

The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) operates on the Presto system. This means frequent TTC users own a reloadable Presto card, and visitors or infrequent users have two options:

1. Cash fare:

   • Adult: CAD$3.25

   • Senior (65+): CAD$2.30

   • Youth (13-19): CAD$2.30

   • Children (12 and under): Free

     • • PLEASE NOTE: If you use this option your fare must be exact as your bus driver or station fare collector will not provide change.

2. Presto ticket:

   • One-ride: CAD$3.25

   • Two-ride: CAD$6.50

   • Day-pass: CAD$13.50

     • • THINGS TO KNOW:

         1. These tickets can be purchased at any TTC station from the black and green automated machines or any Shoppers Drugmart location.

         2. The automated machines take debit or credit including AMEX.

            • The debit option may be limited to domestic (Canadian) debit cards.

         3. Day-passes:

            • Are valid for unlimited rides between the first tap (first use) onto a TTC vehicle until 2:59 a.m that night.

              • Eg. If I "tap on" (use it) at Davisville Station at 12 p.m on Oct. 1st, I will have until 2:59 a.m on Oct. 2nd (after the reception, before I wake up) to use it.

                • Note: Your first use can occur up to 90 days after purchase.

            • Pricing works out so that your fifth ride (and all subsequent rides) are free.

              • Presuming your Oct. 1 travel schedule will be:

Hotel > Ceremony > Reception > Hotel

2 two-ride tickets will be more cost-effective for you.

• Further information about Presto on the TTC can be found here.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND:

The TTC subway system operates underground and cell signal is non-existent save for a handful of outdoor stations. Free Wi-Fi is available within stations, but it can be unreliable. Therefore, we recommend you utilize the screenshot function on your phone for our published written directions to ensure you have access to them at all times. (Click for: written directions to Ceremony) (Click for: written directions to Reception)

Ranked among the finest global cities in the world, Toronto is a cultural hub of Canada and also the most multicultural city on the planet. As such, it offers attractions suited to a variety of interests. Given the ongoing presence of COVID-19, many of these attractions are currently closed but we expect them to open-up in time for our wedding weekend. Below are some suggestions based on our own experience in Toronto that provide enriching encounters and wonderful day-trips.

Museums:

1. The Royal Ontario Museum: The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is among Toronto's most well-loved destinations. Founded in 1914, it is home to over 13 million artworks, cultural objects and natural history specimens, making it Canada's largest and most comprehensive museum. It is one of the most distinctive buildings in Downtown Toronto, and is home to its own TTC station (Museum station). Ticket prices range from CAD$14-CAD$23, or up to CAD$39 for access to all ongoing special exhibits.

2. The Bata Shoe Museum: Regularly described as "chronically under-rated," the Bata Shoe Museum is home to North America's largest collection of shoes including 14,000 artifacts which span 4,500 years of international human history. Using its extensive collection, it showcases the constantly evolving landscape of human society, habits, culture and customs while simultaneously providing an up-close look into the history of fashion. This is a truly exclusive hidden-gem in Toronto that we highly encourage you to look into. Ticket prices range from CAD$5-CAD$14 and it is conveniently located at St. George Station in the heart of Downtown Toronto, within walking distance to the ROM.

3. Casa Loma: Amongst Toronto's most prolific heritage sites lies Casa Loma; a castle built in 1914 by Canadian philanthropist and financier Sir Henry Pellatt. In its time, the castle served as the backdrop to numerous social events and housed an extensive art collection featuring pieces from around the world. Today, it stands as the only true castle in North America and acts as a museum to Sir Henry Pellatt's legacy as well as the extensive, nuanced history of Toronto and Canada. It is additionally home to an exquisite antique car collection. Ticket prices range from CAD$20-CAD$30 and it is located near St. Clair West Station. Click here for more detailed directions.

4. Toronto Railway Museum: The Canadian Pacific Railway played a pivotal role in both the economic and social development of Canada. Toronto, being an economic hub, played a central role in the progression of these goals and the history of our railways has left its mark on both the city and the country. At the Toronto Railway Museum, you have the opportunity to learn about its impact on our cultural development and see some antique trains. Ticket prices range from CAD$5-CAD$10 and it is located in the heart of Downtown, just a short walk from Union Station.

5. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada: Ripley's Aquarium offers a world-class aquatic viewing experience in the heart of Downtown Toronto. Home to over 20,000 sea creatures, it strives to showcase the most awe inspiring aspects of aquatic life and take you on a journey through international waters. Ticket prices are in flux right now as Ripley's is operating online tours, but we will update this page once they open up for in person ticket prices. The aquarium is connected to Union Station via the Skywalk, and is next door to the C.N. Tower.

6. Hockey Hall of Fame: Home to the Stanley Cup, the Hockey Hall of Fame honours the legends that advanced Canada's favourite sport to the international sensation it is today. Its tour will take you on a personal journey through the lives of the NHL's greatest athletes and leave you in awe at the glory of the Stanley Cup. Ticket prices range from CAD$14-CAD$20 and it is located in the heart of Downtown, just a short walk from Union Station.

7. Ontario Science Centre: As one of the world's first interactive science museums, the Ontario Science Centre (OSC) is a nostalgia-filled and much-loved experience for Ontarians. Aimed primarily at children, its goal is to inspire the minds of its visitors to learn-through-play and constantly inquire as a scientist. It is also home to Ontario's only IMAX Dome Screen and is considered one of Ontario's most enriching cultural attractions. Ticket prices range from CAD$12-CAD$20 and it is located in Toronto's east-end. Click here for more information on directions.

8. Aga Khan Museum: The Aga Khan museum offers a unique and informed look into the cultural importance and heritage of Muslim civilizations throughout history. Home to more than 1,000 artifacts spanning geography from the Iberian Peninsula to China, it strives to inclusively educate visitors about Muslim contributions to the world and foster dialogue to promote tolerance and acceptance amongst peoples. Their ever-changing roster of exhibits including artwork, artifacts and performing arts ensure a unique visit every time. Ticket prices range from CAD$10-CAD$20 and it is located in Toronto's east-end, near the OSC. Click here and scroll to the bottom of the page for more information on directions.

Politics/Law/History:

1. The Legislative Assembly of Ontario: Representing the legislative branch of the provincial government, the Legislative Assembly of Ontario (LAO) acts as the backdrop for our 124 MPs to speak for the people of Ontario. The rich history that is preserved within its walls speaks to the cultural progression of Ontario and the values our province holds. Most of their tours are free, however they do have a CAD$30 Afternoon Tea&Tour for those interested. The LAO is located at Queen's Park, which has its own TTC station and is walking distance from the ROM in Downtown Toronto.

2. Fort York National Historic Site: The birthplace of Toronto and location of Canada's most historic homeland battle, Fort York preserves the valiance of historic Canada as we fought off American intruders to preserve our nation's virtues in the War of 1812. Also home to our most historic architecture, Fort York is a must-see for people of all interests. Ticket prices range from CAD$6-CAD$14 and include admission to its museum as well as access to guided tours. It is located just west of Downtown and is easily accessible by transit and car. Click here for more information on directions.

3. Mackenzie House: William Lyon Mackenzie is a long-contested political figure in Toronto's history as he was known to challenge the political corruption and social norms of the time. Mackenzie House stands today as an education centre for Toronto's Victorian era and provides insight into the urban development of the surrounding geography. Also known as one of Toronto's most haunted houses, it is featured on multiple ghost walks in the city. Ticket prices operate on a pay-what-you-can basis with a suggested donation of CAD$10. It is located within walking distance of Dundas Station in the heart of the Downtown core and is across the street from St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica (see below).

4. Market Gallery: Located above St. Lawrence Market (see below), the Market Gallery plays host to rotating exhibits which showcase Toronto's history through artwork, archaeological specimens and historic artifacts. Tickets are free, but it is recommended you reserve a time-slot to ensure a speedy entrance. The Market Gallery is within walking distance of King Station, and is proximate to many other attractions on this list.

5. Todmorden Mills: Todmorden Mills stands as a pinnacle of Toronto's development, honouring the time from our indigenous peoples in the Don River Valley, to the industrial revolution which helped propel the city to its current state. Ticket prices operate on a pay-what-you-can basis with a suggested donation of CAD$10. It is located a bus-ride away from Broadview Station which acts as the gateway to the east-end. Click here for more detailed information on directions.

Arts:

1. Nuit Blanche: Among the most anticipated events of the year, Nuit Blanche is an annual overnight contemporary arts festival that transforms the city into an artist's playground. This world-class arts fest showcases the artistic richness found within Toronto through both visual and performative art styles. Tourists and Torontonians alike flock to the city for this special event and we are delighted to know it's happening the same weekend we are to wed. Details are currently limited, but it is posited to begin on Saturday, Oct. 2 and is absolutely free to attend. As details become available this section will be updated.

2. Art Gallery of Ontario: Standing as one of the largest art galleries in North America, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), is home to 95,000 pieces of fine art including their extensive Group of Seven collection. Currently featuring the internationally renowned Yayoi Kasuma's Infinity Mirrored Room and soon-to-feature an Andy Warhol exhibit, the AGO is a wonderful way to witness international culture in Downtown Toronto. Ticket prices are free for people 25 and under, and CAD$25 for adults over 25. It is located in Downtown Toronto and is within walking distance of St. Patrick station.

3. The National Ballet of Canada: Founded in 1951, The National Ballet of Canada has earned its reputation as one of the best ballet companies in the world. Its season is currently operating online, though they hope to perform Swan Lake later in the year. We will keep this page updated as information becomes available. Their performance centre, The Four Seasons Centre, is located opposite Osgoode Station in the heart of Downtown Toronto.

4. Mirvish: Regarded as Toronto's version of Broadway, Mirvish is the grandest theatre company in the city. Due to Covid-19 their season has been suspended, but they expect to return with Come From Away and Broadway's Hamilton in the fall. Ticket information can be found here in due time. Mirvish theatres are spread throughout the Downtown core, and depending on what show you see, you will be able to find directions to your specific theatre.

5. Soulpepper Theatre Co.: As Canada's leading artist-driven theatre company, Soulpepper embraces the diversity of theatre artists and stages contemporary pieces of art. Located in the Distillery District, Soulpepper's productions are unlike any you'll see anywhere else. Ticket prices can be found here. Note: If you are 25 or under and register with their free 25&under program, you will be able to book free tickets to the performances of your choice. Click here for more information on directions.

6. Toronto Society of Architects Tours: Toronto is home to world-class architecture featuring a healthy mix of heritage sites and modern wonders. The Toronto Society of Architects (TSA) offers a variety of walking tours that showcase the city's diverse architectural landscape, most of which take place in Downtown. Ticket prices are CAD$15 for adults, and free for any children under 12 when accompanied by a paid adult.

Nature:

1. Toronto Islands: The Toronto Islands - also known as "The Island" - are a 13 minute ferry ride from the downtown core and provide a refreshing landscape for a day outdoors. Home to an astonishing view of the city's skyline, bike and boat rentals help you to experience the beauty of the city in a serene setting. The ferry departs from Jack-Layton Terminal in Downtown Toronto, just south of Union Station. Click here for more detailed information on directions.

2. Edward's Gardens: Belonging to the Toronto Botanical Garden group, Edwards Gardens is a vast space full of exquisite landscaping details. Home to a variety of hiking trails, the garden will provide stunning views of Toronto's fall scape. It's located in North York, provides free parking and can be accessed via the TTC. Click here for access to more detailed information on directions.

3. Trinity-Bellwoods Park: Located in the west-end of Downtown, Trinity-Bellwoods is a large, lively park nestled within one of the best shopping districts in the city. If you're looking for a relaxing afternoon spent outside, Trinity-Bellwoods is a fantastic choice for you. It is possible to walk from Osgoode Station, and doing so will expose you to the shopping of Queen St. West, but it is a good 20-30 minutes of walking time! If that sounds unappealing, you can always hop on the 501 streetcar at Osgoode Station and take it across to Strachan Ave. Click here for access to detailed directions.

4. Toronto Zoo: Operating on 710 acres of land and home to 500 different species, the Toronto Zoo is the largest zoo in Canada. The 500 species found within its walls are divided into 7 sub-sections depending on geographic area including Indo-Malaya, Africa, Tundra Trek and a Canadian Domain which showcases our country's native animals. It's located on the eastern border of Toronto, though it is still accessible via TTC and GO Transit. Ticket prices are currently unlisted due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but we will update this page as information becomes available.

Food:

Well-regarded as the home of Canada's greatest gastronomic experiences, Toronto boasts a plethora of excellent restaurants representing a variety of international cultures. Below are some of the key neighbourhoods in which you will find these legendary experiences, along with some recommendations based on our own experience and city-wide reviews.

Select the neighbourhood label to be redirected to either a map of its general location or its official website. Select the restaurants to be taken to their official website.

1. The Beverly Hotel:

   • Within the walls of this boutique hotel lie two restaurants revelled for their incredible atmosphere and delicious eats. Both being operated by a close friend of ours, this space deserves a visit at either the lower Mexican snack bar (Carlotta) or the upstairs rooftop patio (Beverly Rooftop). Located along Queen St. West, these eateries provide a prime location to top off your day in the city.

2. King St. West (Fashion/Entertainment District):

   • $$$$: Buca, Canoe, Jacobs&Co Steakhouse

   • $$$: Cibo Wine Bar, Luma, Rodney's Oyster House,

   • $-$$: Meat & Pie Co., Weslodge Saloon, Wilbur Mexicana,

3. Little Italy:

   • $$$$: Bar Isabel, Chiado

   • $$$: Bar Raval, Il Covo, La Carnita

   • $-$$: La Forchetta, Perla Restaurant, Trattoria Taverniti

4. The Danforth (Greektown):

   • $$: Athens Restaurant, Local 1749, Pantheon Restaurant, Pizzeria Libretto

   • $: Asteria, Messini Authentic Gyros

5. Distillery District:

   • $$$: Cluny Bistro&Boulangerie, El Catrin

   • $-$$: Archeo, Boku Japanese Eats, Cacao 70, SOMA Chocolatiers

6. St. Lawrence Market: Located in Downtown Toronto below the Market Gallery (see above), the St. Lawrence Market is a 218 year-old Toronto landmark. Filled with vendors from around the city, it stands as a true reflection of Toronto's cultural landscape. You can find both food and general wares at this world-class market, and on Saturdays you will be greeted by the farmer's market (year-round!).

7. Restaurants/food experiences otherwise not mentioned:

   • $$$$: Barbarians Steak House, Scaremouche

   • $-$$: Beavertails, The Burger's Priest, Crepe TO, General Assembly Pizzas, Purdys Chcolatier, Scaddabush, Street Meat (do not be afraid of our hot dog carts!)

Sports:

1. Toronto Blue Jays (MLB): The Blue Jays are Toronto's major-league baseball team who play at of the Rogers Centre in Downtown Toronto. They will be playing at home against the Baltimore Orioles from Oct. 1-Oct. 3. If you're interested in watching any of these games live at the Rogers Centre, tickets can be found here. **If the current COVID-19 landscape and regulations persist, these games will take place in Florida at their spring training facility**

Shopping:

1. Toronto Eaton Centre: As the only traditional mall in Downtown Toronto, the Eaton Centre boasts 235 stores ranging from everyday brands to designer labels. Canadian exclusives Hudson's Bay, Roots and Aritzia can also be found here at some of their finest locations in the city. Located in the true-heart of Downtown, both Queen Station and Dundas Station are directly attached to the Eaton Centre.

2. Yorkdale Mall: Located in the north-end of the city, Yorkdale is a major, upscale retail centre that is home to 270 stores. These stores consist of the largest collection of luxury retailers in the province including Burberry, Tesla Motors and Cartier, as well as the only Cheesecake Factory in Canada. Yorkdale is lucky enough to have its own TTC station towards the north end of the same line that connects to Downtown (Line 1/Yonge-University-Spadina Line/Yellow Line).

3. Queen St. West: One of Toronto's trendier neighbourhoods, Queen West offers both major and boutique retailers, ranging from fashion to furniture to antiques to art galleries. Also home to a variety of eats, the Queen West corridor offers an outdoor, urban experience that provides a real taste of Toronto's cultural landscape. The gateway to Queen West is known as Osgoode Station, and all you have to do is walk west! If you walk far enough you'll make it to Trinity-Bellwoods Park, which you can read about above.

4. Yorkville: Known for its boutique, high-end shopping, Yorkville is well-suited for a luxury shopping experience. Also home to some magnificent bistros, this gem of a neighbourhood can be found in the heart of the city, between St George Station and Bloor-Yonge Station.

Religious Sites:

**If you are to visit these sites, please remember they are places of worship and should be treated as such.**

1. St. Michael's Cathedral Basilica: In 1842 the Diocese of Toronto was born under the guidance of Bishop Michael Power. Home to only 3,000 parishioners, 19 priests and one church (St. Paul's) at the time, it became clear an additional church was needed to serve as the Cathedral; so became St. Michael's (St. Mike's). Over the next several years our Catholic population approximately doubled due to the effects of the Irish Famine which enabled our diocese to continue expanding. Now regarded as the largest English-speaking diocese in the country, the legacy of St. Mike's is felt throughout the city. You can attend mass here on Saturdays at 5:00 p.m and Sundays at 8:00 a.m, 10:00 a.m, 12:00 p.m, 5:00 p.m and 9:00 p.m. Confession is also available at scattered times throughout the weekend. Click here for more information on their schedule. Click here for more information on location and directions.

2. St. Paul's Catholic Basilica: Standing firmly at the corner of Queen Street&Power Street is St.Paul's, the mother church of the Archdiocese of Toronto. Established in 1822 out of nothing more than brick and mortar, St. Paul's has borne witness to and been a driving force of the progression of the city of Toronto. The current structure was blessed in 1887 by Cardinal Taschereau of Montreal, under the direction of Bishop O'Mahony of Toronto, and its first mass was celebrated in 1889. You can attend mass here on Saturdays at 4:30 p.m and on Sundays at 8:30 a.m and 11:00 a.m. Additionally, you can attend confession here on Saturdays between 3:45 and 4:15 p.m. Click here for more information on location and directions.

3. Martyrs' Shrine: As a subsidiary of the Society of Jesus (Jesuit order), Martyrs' Shrine preserves the legacy of St. Jean de Brébeuf in a holy and historic space. Their mission is to share the divine mystery of self-sacrificing love as witnessed in the life of Jean de Brébeuf with people of every faith and culture. Across the street is the Sainte Marie among the Hurons museum, which tells the story of the first European Community in the province and is recognized as a Signature Ontario Experience. Their mass schedule is currently unpublished due to Covid-19, but we will update this page as soon as it becomes available. The shrine is located ~1.5hrs outside of Toronto in the Town of Midland making this a driving destination. Click here for more information on location and directions.

4. Jami Mosque Toronto: Created out of a remodelled Presbyterian church in the west-end of Toronto, Jami stands as Toronto's mother mosque as it has since 1969. As a crucial member of the High Park community, it strives to ensure that all people has access to knowledge, wellness, Islamic services and emergency assistance within their community. Prayers are held throughout the day and its doors are kept open 7 days a week. Click here for more information on location and directions. Click here for access to the Islamic Society of North America's website.

5. Masjid Toronto: Serving the community in Downtown Toronto sine 2002, Masjid Toronto is a permanent prayer space for the Islamic community in the Downtown core. Belonging to the Muslim Association of Canada, Masjid strives to provide spaces, services and personal enrichment for Canadian Muslims while propagating and integrating the Islamic faith into the fabric of Canadian society. There are two spaces in the core of the city; 168 Dundas Street West (walking distance from St. Patrick Station) and 86 Adelaide Street East (walking distance from King Station).

6. St. Moses & St. Katherine Coptic Orthodox Church: Located along Bathurst Street in Toronto's Little Italy, St. Moses & St. Katherine Coptic Orthodox Church (SMSK), their mission rests in the principles of love, integration, and outreach for the greater glory of God. Always striving to grow spiritually and be a positive influence on their surroundings, theirs is a place where no one stands alone. You can attend Divine Liturgy on Saturdays and Sundays, and Midnight Praises on Saturday nights. Click here for more information on location and directions. Click here for more information on their liturgic schedule. Click here for an inclusive list of denominational churches within the Orthodox tradition.

7. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: Built out of over 95,000 cubic feet of hand-carved marble, limestone and sandstone, Baps Shri Swminarayan Mandir (BAPS) stands as Canada's first traditional Hindu place of worship. Home to three distinct structures - the Mandir, the Haveli and the Heritage Museum - BAPS's doors are open to the public free of charge. As an international spiritual organization, BAPS is dedicated to improving individuals and society by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity and selfless service. Located near Toronto Peasrson Airport in Toronto, it is most easily accessed via car but can also be accessed via the TTC. Click here for more information on location and directions. Click here for more information on their daily rituals.

All-Inclusive Tours/Passes:

1. CityPass: If you are interested in seeing the C.N. Tower, Ripley's Aquarium, Casa Loma, the ROM, and either the Toronto Zoo or the Ontario Science Centre, CityPass will save you ~CAD$60 on combined admission.

2. CitySightseeing Toronto Double Decker Tour: The iconic red buses that drive through the city's core provide a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off ticket to the gates of Toronto's greatest destinations. This will not save you money on admission, but it provides easy transport around the city's most-loved destinations.