Photographer's Venue Pick: The Millcroft Inn

The Millcroft is on my my FAVORITE wedding venues. I may be a bit biased though… I lived in Alton for almost 20 years! I actually started my photography journey by taking my very first picture (ever) of the Millcroft itself.

"Ideally located in the rolling hills of Caledon and surrounded by gallery and boutique rich villages, the Millcroft draws visitors from across the globe. An iconic restaurant overlooking a picturesque millpond, a renowned spa facility, and impeccable service, its little wonder the name Millcroft is synonymous with excellence." - Vintage Hotels

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In my opinion you should consider these things that the Millcroft has to offer:

• The idea of an intimate "getaway" wedding is appealing

• Plenty of on-site photo opportunities including a gorgeous interior:

• The food is SO good. Having eaten at wedding venues all over Ontario I can personally say the food is great! (lunches are a great price too)

• It's worth staying the night! Alton is home to the popular R3 bakery, Alton Mill Arts Centre and visit the Millcroft’s on-site Spa which is superb.

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Vintage Hotel’s Millcroft is a solid choice for a romantic intimate wedding setting. If the location and venue size work for you, this one is a no brainer.

Backyard weddings. Yes or no?

Spoiler alert: backyard weddings are awesome. Close friends and family members in a relaxed environment is perfect recipe for an amazing wedding. Often times they are intimate and personal. Taylor + Josh's day was no different! With a down to earth and close to home feeling the entire wedding was stress free from start to finish.

Positive things to consider:

• More “relaxed” vibe

• Less guests = more time spent with each guest

• Less red-tape. You get to make the rules. (Assuming you don't break the law!!)

• Picking a date is much more flexible

• Lighting is often much better and brighter being outside. If its not, just add your own lights!

With proper planning, outdoor weddings can be incredible

Other things to consider:

• What's for dinner? Consider catering & cooking challenges if it's in a remote location.

• Restrooms. Portable restrooms can be surprisingly expensive!

• Outside at night? Mosquito/bug related solutions may be needed in certain locations

• Liability insurance. Look into it.

• Do you have neighbors? Keep the noise in mind.

• Plan ahead with the cleanup and garbage.

With enough planning a backyard wedding can be something your guests will never forget. The intimate backyard wedding is quite possibly one of my favorite styles of wedding to photograph!