Do I need to pay for my tent or cabin?
No. Your stay on the night of the wedding is our gift to you. There's nothing to book; just find your name on the map to see where you'll be.
When can I check in, and when do I leave?
Tents and cabins are ready from 3:00 PM. Early check-in isn't available, as the venue is getting everything ready. Check-out is at 10:30 AM the next morning.
Will the ceremony be outdoors?
Yes, at the Forest Chapel under the trees, rain or shine. We'll have umbrellas, and golf carts will ferry everyone over.
What kind of ceremony is it?
A Christian ceremony with readings, hymns and our vows. It runs about 30 minutes. Everyone is welcome, whatever your faith.
How late does the party go?
The bar closes and the music stops at 12:30 AM. After that you're welcome to keep celebrating at your tent or around the fire pit by the pool. Bring a small speaker if you like (but no outside drinks at the fire pit; it's a common area).
Can I bring a guest?
Your invitation lists everyone we've saved a seat for, and the RSVP form will show you the same names. If it offers you a plus-one, bring them.
Are kids welcome?
Yes. Whispering Springs is usually adults-only, but we've booked the whole venue, so children are welcome. If your little ones are named on your invitation, they're invited.
Can I bring my dog?
Sorry, no. The venue doesn't allow guests to bring dogs, and dogs can't stay in the tents (guide dogs are the exception). Tucked Inn Kennels in Grafton can look after your dog overnight and offers a shuttle. Their details are in "Good to know" above.
Can I bring my own tent?
No. Whispering Springs is zoned as a resort, not a campground, so the township's bylaws don't allow guests to pitch their own tents. You'll have a tent or cabin waiting for you anyway.
Will I be warm enough at night?
The safari tents aren't heated, but they have electric blankets and a small electric heater. Whisper Cabin is heated, with a gas fireplace. Nights in late June are usually around 15°C, so bring a sweater.
What's in my tent or cabin?
Linens, cozy blankets, towels and robes; a mini fridge; a coffee station with pods, cream and sugar; a kettle; and plates, glassware and cutlery. Most have their own washroom. See "The tents & cabins" above for each one.
Is there Wi-Fi or cell service?
There's no Wi-Fi, and cell service is weak. Consider it a night unplugged in the woods. Download anything you need before you arrive.
Is there parking?
Yes, there are several parking areas around camp. They're marked on the map above.
Can I smoke?
Only in the designated smoking area: the knoll with the armour stones, about 150 ft behind the entrance to the reception and bar. Smoking anywhere else, including the tents, gets you removed and a $500 fine from the venue.
Are drinks included?
Drinks aren't included, but you can buy your own at the Watering Hole bar, from cocktail hour until last call at 12:30 AM. The venue takes credit cards and cash. There's also a free hydration station with flavoured water all evening.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Only to enjoy at your own tent or cabin. Under the venue's liquor licence, every drink anywhere else, including soft drinks and juice, comes from the Whispering Springs bar, which is open until 12:30 AM. There's also a free hydration station with flavoured water. The venue confiscates outside alcohol found beyond the tent sites and asks the guest to leave, so please keep your own drinks at your tent.
Is there a store on site?
Yes, a small camp store in The Watering Hole sells snacks, souvenirs and glamping goodies.
How far is it?
About an hour and a half east of Toronto. The villages of Grafton and Colborne are under 10 minutes away.
Will there be bugs?
It's the woods in summer, so yes: mosquitoes, and ticks off the paths. Bring bug spray, stick to the trails, and check for ticks after walks. Hopefully you'll see some fireflies too.
