Barn Weddings – A Site Visit with Tips

by Danielle Andrews, President and Co-founder of The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada Inc.

As wedding planners, our work doesn’t stop with the weddings we plan. We need to continually expand our knowledge of the venues and services available to our clients. One of the best ways to do this is through regular site visits. They allow us to experience a venue firsthand, meet the teams behind the scenes, see them in action at an event, and discover the unique features each location has to offer. This commitment to staying informed ensures we can make the best possible recommendations to our couples, enhancing their overall wedding experience. Below I will share a site visit to a Barn Wedding Venue and then at the end, I will share some tips for what you should be considering when planning a barn wedding.

Recently I went to Thunderbird Farm in Woodville, ON about an hour north of Toronto. Nestled on 73 acres of breathtaking farmland, Thunderbird Farm offers a truly unique wedding experience, blending historic charm with modern comfort. During my recent site visit and planners’ lunch, I had the pleasure of exploring this enchanting venue, and it’s safe to say it’s a true hidden gem for couples seeking a rustic yet refined celebration.

A Picture-Perfect Setting

The centerpiece of Thunderbird Farm is its beautifully restored 1800s post-and-beam barn, with its timeless, rustic elegance. Surrounded by rolling fields, lush forestry, and a charming creek, the venue offers a picturesque backdrop for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and those all-important getting-ready moments. The expansive outdoor ceremony space captures the serene beauty of nature, making it a perfect choice for couples dreaming of an al fresco ‘I do.’

Modern Comfort in a Historic Space

For those seeking both character and convenience, the fully renovated farmhouse is a dream come true. It seamlessly blends modern decor and amenities while maintaining its historic charm, comfortably accommodating up to 13 guests. With features like a pool and hot tub, it’s an ideal spot for hosting the wedding party for a full weekend of celebration.

In addition to the main house, there is another out building that the groom and groomsmen can use, stocked with a kitchen, lots of games like foosball and arcade games, and a comfortable lounge.

Cocktails and Alpacas?

Guests can also enjoy a charming and memorable cocktail hour while interacting with some of the farm’s sweetest residents. Thunderbird Farm offers the delightful opportunity to mingle with Nigerian dwarf goats, Baby-doll sheep, alpacas, chickens, and even a friendly turkey. These personal animal encounters add a warm, whimsical element to the celebration that guests of all ages will remember fondly.

There is also an area set up with lawn games, a fire pit, and outdoor bar area so your couple’s guests will have lots to entertain them.

Pet-Friendly with a Personal Touch

For couples who want to include their furry family members, Thunderbird Farm goes the extra mile by partnering with a dog-minding service, allowing your pup to be part of the festivities without the worry of logistics. This thoughtful touch reflects the farm’s commitment to making every detail of the day stress-free.

A Meaningful Connection

As an Indigenous-owned property, Thunderbird Farm also offers the opportunity for couples to incorporate meaningful Indigenous elements into their ceremonies, adding a personal and culturally significant touch to their celebration.

A Thoughtful Touch from Feast & Fusion

My site visit was made even more memorable by a delicious, personalized lunch from the talented team at Feast & Fusion. The chef took the time to ensure my meal was entirely gluten-free, preparing a fantastic spread that included gluten-free pizza, hearty soup, fresh salad, and a delightful charcuterie board, while other guests enjoyed a comforting lasagna. It’s these thoughtful details that truly set the experience apart.

Parting with a Sweet Note

As a final thoughtful touch, we left with lovely parting bags that included stunning Brazilian wedding chocolates from B Sweet Toronto and beautiful paper samples from Under the Stairs Paper Co. —an inspiring reminder of the attention to detail that makes Thunderbird Farm a standout venue.

Practical Considerations for Barn Weddings

For planners visiting barn venues like Thunderbird Farm, it’s essential to consider the unique logistical and practical aspects that come with these charming settings. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Electricity Capabilities: Ensure the barn has sufficient power to support lighting, catering equipment, entertainment, and sound systems. If not, explore generator options to prevent any power issues on the big day.
• Lighting: Assess the natural and installed lighting for both daytime and evening events. Consider the need for additional uplighting, string lights, or chandeliers for ambiance and safety.
• Parking: Confirm there is ample parking for guests and vendors, as well as clear, accessible pathways. For larger events, you might also need to consider shuttle options.
• Restroom Facilities: If the barn lacks modern restrooms, portable restrooms or luxury restroom trailers may be necessary. Ensure they are conveniently located and accessible for all guests.
• Catering Concerns: Check for an on-site prep kitchen or adequate space for catering setup. If there isn’t one, confirm that outside caterers can access water, power, and disposal areas.
• Safety and Permits: Confirm that the barn is up to code, with proper fire exits, extinguishers, and emergency lighting. Verify if special permits are required for open flames, fireworks, or pyrotechnics.
• Landmark Levy Fees: If the barn is a historic property, check if it has any landmark levy fees or preservation restrictions that might affect the event.
• Insurance Requirements: Understand the venue’s insurance requirements and ensure the couple, vendors, and any third-party providers have appropriate coverage.
• Special Occasions Permit (SOP): If alcohol will be served, confirm if an SOP is required and whether the venue has a preferred vendor list for bartending services.
• Preferred Vendors: Some barn venues have exclusive or preferred vendor lists for catering, bartending, and rentals. Confirm these details upfront to avoid surprises.

Photos courtesy of Thunderbird Farm.