by Guest Blogger, Crystal Adair-Benning, WPICC of Distinct Occasions
Toronto is preparing to take an oslaught of large scale and city-interrupting events this summer and they may not be the only one. If you are planning to marry in Toronto over the G20 Summit Weekend (June 26-27, 2010) you may want to take into consideration just how the may affect your nuptials and/or your guests attendance. For those thinking they're escaping by heading north to Muskoka – think again! – Muskoka's darling Huntsville will play host at Deerhurst Resort to the infamous G8 Summit this summer as well.
The G20 will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre located downtown and near some big name venues in the city including Steam Whistle Brewery and many major hotels.
The meeting of the world’s wealthiest nations will take place just as Gay Pride (June 25 – July 4) week kicks off. The signature Gay Pride parade event was already pushed back a week to accommodate the summit.
So what's this mean for couples getting married in late June 2010?
Here are some of the possible scenarios that we're already considering for our clients:
- depending upon the Feds security plan; locations close to MTCC may not be accessible to couples & their guests
- traffic will be diminished and could be stopped within a 2-5 mile radius around the MTCC blocking many downtown streets
- some 10,000+ attendees, media, dignitaries and protesters are expected to swarm the city and set up camp in local hotels and area
- this also means that in the week leading up to and surrounding the G8 & G20 Pearson Airport will also be facing stringent security and overwhelming crowds
- vendors/guests/couples may need security clearance to travel
So, what can we do?
- If your chosen venue is near to MTCC consider changing your plans. While choosing another location this close to your date is not ideal it may save you, your guests and vendors a lot of headaches in the end.
- Start talking! I know this sounds obvious but call your vendors and ask the questions – Have they thought about the security measures? Do you need to bump up delivery times? Should all guests bring passports/ID with them just incase?
- For travelling guests; prepare them ahead of time for long lines, strict security measures and the joy of travelling at Christmas (as this will be what it will feel like)
- Is there another alternative for travel? If the roadways are blocked will subways be a better option? Will guests have to walk to the venue or their hotel?
- For hotel block bookings – consider locations outside of the downtown core where G20 summit attendees may be staying. Trust me when I say that security at these hotels will be insane and getting a bed will come at a major pricetag.
- Be aware! Protesters are NEVER a good wedding day look so be sure to go through all of your security and wedding logistics with your Planner, venue, and vendors to be sure that nothing is left to chance!
The G20 Summit and many other high profile events come to Toronto time and again. Preparing for them, planning for them, and hiring knowledgable staff to ease you through the difficulties will allow you to breathe easier leading up to your wedding and not worrying about missing attendees, police escorts or calling the whole thing off!
For more information: http://www.torontog20summit.com/
Happy Planning,
Crystal Adair-Benning
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