By Tara MacIntosh
A wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is the epitome of style and class. Such a lavish occasion is a celebration of love, fondly remembered for generations. Known for its impeccable service standards, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto treats every couple on their way to the altar with the utmost respect, ensuring undivided attention is paid to every detail of their special day. “A luxury wedding experience means truly taking care of the couple, their families and friends for the entirety of their wedding day and beyond,” says Guillaume Benezech, the general manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto. “Our team of wedding experts is dedicated to creating unforgettable celebrations filled with surprise moments and everlasting memories that will leave couples and their guests in awe.”
Not surprisingly, weddings spark immense joy for the staff at the five-star hotel. The leadership team has curated wedding packages meant to inspire happy brides and grooms, each offering unparalleled service. Not only will a Ritz-Carlton certified wedding and events specialist work with you (and your wedding planner), but you can also expect inclusions like menu tastings for up to six guests, printed menus at each place setting, valet parking for the wedding couple and their parents, a complimentary guestroom and breakfast for two the morning after the main event. “The first step is to have a meeting to get to know the couple and their needs and expectations. The couple has a lot to consider, so we have created packages brimming with glamour and elements of surprise that are completely customizable,” Benezech says. “We remain flexible in our offerings, as what is most important to us is to build a relationship with the family, which starts with the wedding and continues for years to come.”
When it comes to venues, there are a selection of exquisitely romantic locations in the hotel to choose from. If you’re planning a big bash, consider The Ritz-Carlton Ballroom — this ultra-luxurious venue has capacity for 500 guests. The Wellington Ballroom has space for 200, while the Gallery Room is the perfect spot for an intimate reception for 80. The Grand Foyer is an elegant place for a reception before and after vows are exchanged.
As food is always one of the most important aspects of a wedding, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto’s culinary team works with the couple to build the perfect menu, which typically features local ingredients. When regional menus are requested, the hotel’s internationally trained chefs specializing in that cuisine will ensure every dish is prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. A world-class wine selection and cocktail offerings are equally personalized to make the experience fun and unique.
For those seeking the ultimate in service and attention, there is an ultra-exclusive hotel-within-the-hotel known as the Club Level. Staying on the Club Level includes a dedicated concierge and access to the house car with a driver, Club Lounge access (featuring a buffet breakfast and food and beverage service throughout the day) and dedicated attention at every turn. The Ritz-Carlton Wellington and Simcoe Suites are alternate options for elevating your stay with exclusivity and a beyond-impressive panoramic view.
The hotel is famously known for anticipating — and exceeding — guests’ needs. “We are always listening to make sure each guest feels special. We love to present the element of wonder and surprise,” he says. When a couple chooses The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto to host their wedding, it begins a relationship that will be nurtured as the family grows and expands. “It warms our hearts when a couple returns for their first wedding anniversary or their baby’s first birthday party,” Benezech says proudly. “We love nothing more than watching a family blossom, beginning with the wedding ceremony and growing into a lifetime of happiness.”