How to Plan Your Wedding Without Leaving the Annex
Trying to plan your dream wedding? Head to the Annex for a little bit of inspiration and a lot of shopping.
- Pictured here: Jess and Robin's engagement session in The Annex captured by Magnolia Studios.
This student-friendly neighbourhood has more to offer than cheap pub grub and study spots. In fact, it’s the perfect place to look if you’re planning a wedding. You’ll find everything from Monique Lhuillier gowns to stunning multi-tiered cakes on its streets, so grab your planner and get to shopping.
Here’s how to plan the ultimate Annex wedding.
Venue: 918 Bathurst (918 Bathurst Street)
On the far west edge of the Annex you’ll find 918 Bathurst. The former buddhist temple has been transformed into an arts and culture hub, being used for everything from gallery showings to performances. But that’s not all, it doubles as an event space and is a fan favourite in the Annex for weddings. There are a few of rooms to choose from, with the most popular being the Great Hall (a redwood auditorium that can fit 150 seated guests). On the east side of the neighbourhood, you should also check out Park Hyatt Toronto for stunning views of the city, the ROM for magnificent event spaces (10 to 600 guests) and The Royal Conservatory for a modern elegant vibe (150 seated guests with dance floor).
Dress: Dina Alonzi Bridal (8 Prince Arthur Avenue)
Right on the cusp of where the Annex and Yorkville meet sits Dina Alonzi Bridal. The boutique is no stranger to the world of wedding dresses, it’s been in business for more than 25 years and is known for its high quality service. Its racks are lined with gowns by top designers, like Mira Zwillinger, Monique Lhuillier and Alon Livne, so you should have no problem finding that perfect frock for your big day.
Flowers: The Rose Emporium (204 Dupont Street)
This shop’s name really says it all. If you’re looking to include roses in your wedding centerpieces and bouquets, this is the place to go. Using everything from traditional red blooms to two-tone and vintage varieties, the florists here can craft you some seriously romantic arrangements. While the shop specializes in roses, they’ll be more than happy to fill out your bouquets with a few different blooms and a bit of fauna.
Suit: Theodore 1922 (374 Bloor Street West)
This Bloor Street menswear mecca has everything you’ll need to look like a million bucks on your wedding day. The shop slings everything from suits to sport coats, so no matter what look you want to sport, it has your back. It also stocks a few playful accessories, like patterned bow ties, coloured laces and unique cufflinks, if you want to add a little something extra to your ensemble.
Cake: Stubbe Chocolates & Pastry (653 Dupont Street)
Head to the corner of Dupont and Christie and you’ll find Stubbe Chocolates & Pastry - an oasis of sweets and cakes. While its specialty is definitely cocoa-flavoured treats, its wedding cakes are nothing to scoff at. Its gallery boasts art deco creations, mehndi-inspired designs and marzipan pear-clad tiers. We suggest picking up a few of its truffles and chocolates for your sweet table or favour bags, too!
Catering: Salt & Pepper Catering Co. (287 Davenport Road)
Trying to hunt down the perfect caterer? You don’t have to travel far! This Davenport kitchen serves up some seriously tasty eats, perfect for your big day. Stefanie Tortorella, its founder can handle catering up to 400 guests, so even larger weddings can take advantage. From hors d’oeuvres like breadless BLTs and nicoise tarts to a full plated meals, she does it all.
