Kurtz Orchards Wedding Niagara | Clarissa & Evan

A Sunny & Special Day at Kurtz Orchards Weddings in Niagara

Clarissa & Evan found me for their Kurtz Orchards wedding in Niagara (on-the-Lake to be specific), through one of my favourite planners, Kari Lywood — and if you’re still looking for a planning team that just gets it, definitely check her out. She’s amazing at pairing her couples with vendors who actually match their vibe.

From the beginning, Clarissa & Evan felt like a perfect fit. On the surface, they’re polished and put-together — successful in their careers, stylish (Evan wore a very sharp tux), and they clearly know how to throw a beautiful event. But spend five minutes with them, and you realize they’re also playful, easygoing, and totally down to ditch tradition when it makes sense for them.

They chose Kurtz Orchards for their Niagara wedding because they didn’t want the typical banquet hall experience. They were drawn to the open-air feel, the laid-back energy, and the idea of a wedding that felt more like a daytime celebration than a formal production. As a photographer who leans into real connection over posed perfection, I couldn’t have loved that more.

The whole day had this relaxed rhythm — from their soft, outdoor ceremony to the Lion dancers that surprised everyone after dinner. It was honest, fun, and full of those little in-between moments I love to document.

If you’re getting married at Kurtz Orchards Weddings in Niagara-on-the-Lake (or anywhere in Toronto or Niagara) and looking for a photographer, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch here.

Vendor Shoutouts:
Venue: Kurtz Orchards Weddings, Planner: Kari Lywood, Florals: Wine Country Floral, Video: Goody Cambay, MUA: I Do Beauty Co., Lion Dancers: Wushu Project

Ceremony and Reception Options at Kurtz Orchards Weddings

Kurtz Orchards offers a few different spaces to host your wedding, and each one brings something a little different depending on the feel you’re going for.

The ceremony often takes place on the lawn surrounded by orchard trees. It’s open, natural, and doesn’t need much added to feel special. Most couples keep it simple with a floral arch or some grounded arrangements, letting the landscape do most of the work. There’s a quiet kind of beauty in standing there — sun filtering through the trees, the soft buzz of summer in the background. It’s intimate without feeling small.

For the reception, there’s a covered tented area that’s ideal for dining and speeches, plus an outdoor patio space where many couples do their first dance (a little tip: time it around dusk so the string lights overhead really shine). You can keep things cozy and minimal or lean into something more styled — the space handles both well.

One of the best things about Kurtz Orchards Weddings is how easy it is to move from one part of the day to the next without needing a full reset. No long commutes between ceremony and dinner. No awkward shuffling of guests. Everything’s within walking distance, and it all feels cohesive.

Bonus: the orchard itself is a dream for portraits. If you can sneak away during dinner for 15 minutes at golden hour, do it. The light in the trees is soft, glowy, and incredibly flattering — it’s one of my favourite spots on the property.

Nearby Accommodations and Amenities for Your Guests

One of the perks of hosting a wedding at Kurtz Orchards is that you’re right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake — a town that’s basically built for hosting. Whether your guests are coming in from Toronto or flying in from out of province, there are plenty of charming, walkable places to stay nearby.

Queen’s Landing is a standout if you’re looking for somewhere beautiful to get ready the morning of. The suites are spacious, the light is great for photos, and there are green spaces just steps away — ideal if you’re planning a first look before heading to the venue.

For guests, there’s a mix of options ranging from boutique hotels to cozy B&Bs and vacation rentals. Most are just a short drive (or Uber) away from the orchard, which makes logistics easy — especially for older family members or anyone unfamiliar with the area.

Beyond accommodations, Niagara-on-the-Lake is full of spots to explore: local cafes, wineries, lakeside trails, and historic main streets. If your guests are making a weekend of it, they’ll have plenty to do — no need to fill every hour with structured activities.

FAQ About Kurtz Orchards Weddings Niagara

How far is Kurtz Orchards from downtown Toronto and downtown Niagara Falls?
Kurtz Orchards is about a 25–30 minute drive from downtown Niagara Falls, and roughly 1.5 hours from downtown Toronto (depending on traffic). Most guests coming from the city make a weekend of it and stay locally in Niagara-on-the-Lake to keep things easy and nearby on the wedding day.

What’s the maximum capacity for weddings at Kurtz Orchards?
The venue can comfortably host around 150 guests for both the ceremony and reception. It’s a good fit for mid-sized weddings — large enough for a party, small enough to stay personal.

What’s the venue’s backup plan for outdoor ceremonies if it rains?
There’s a large covered tent that serves as the rain plan, and it’s genuinely beautiful — lots of light, no sad tarp vibes. I’ve shot rainy-day ceremonies there and they still felt warm, intimate, and thoughtfully done. The team is quick and organized when things need to pivot.

Does Kurtz Orchards Weddings allow fireworks?
Yes — with a permit. Some couples plan their own display, but if that’s not in the budget, keep an eye out for surprise shows from nearby venues. Depending on the timing, your guests might catch a bonus fireworks moment without the extra cost.

Best Group Activities in Niagara-on-the-Lake

If you’re turning your wedding into a weekend event — or just want to give guests a few solid suggestions — Niagara-on-the-Lake has no shortage of things to do. It’s a small town with a relaxed pace, but still full of charm, good food, and wine (lots of wine).

Here are a few group-friendly options that don’t feel like a forced itinerary:

1. Wine Tastings & Vineyard Tours
You’re in wine country — it would almost be rude not to. Konzelmann, Peller Estates, and Ravine Vineyard are all close by and offer tastings, patio lunches, and tours. Book ahead if you’re trying to bring a bigger group.

2. Stroll the Historic Downtown
The main strip is lined with local boutiques, bakeries, and cafes. It’s low-key, easy to wander, and ideal for guests who just want to stretch their legs and explore between wedding events.

3. Afternoon at the Lake or the Park
Queen’s Royal Park is right at the edge of the lake and perfect for a casual picnic or quick pre-wedding breather. You’ll catch views of Fort Niagara across the water and probably a few dogs in bowties if the weather’s good.

4. Bike Rentals & Wine Routes
There are a few companies that offer bike rentals and guided routes through wine country. It’s a fun option for the more active crowd, and the scenery is top-tier.

5. Group Dinner at a Local Spot
If you want to organize a welcome dinner or next-day brunch, places like Treadwell or The Cannery are known for great food and private dining options. Just be sure to reserve in advance — weekends book up fast.

Nothing needs to be overly structured, but a few suggestions can make your guests feel cared for — and make the whole weekend feel more connected.