Moving quickly around the restaurant, your arms are full of plates and your head full of orders. Scrambling around to get everything done in time, you forget the water table 5 asked you for twice now. On your way back, the gentlemen reminds you with a scowl and you walk away rolling your eyes thinking, what a nuisance! Is it a nuisance though? I understand you’re frustrated at the fact that you’re stressed and it’s busy, but let’s be realistic – you are at work and your customer is not.
It is only natural to react when reacted to and even more natural to get frustrated with demanding customers. Does it justify this reaction though? Absolutely not! For one, they probably haven’t worked in the industry so really have no clue of the complicities of it and two; they are still your customers. If they are being disrespectful it’s one thing, but asking you for their water for the third time because they need something to wash down their food is not an acceptable excuse. Servers, bartenders and event staff – it’s time to learn the customer perspective.
No one is perfect, including you. There are days you get frustrated, and there will be moments clients are too. Learn to take control of all situations by being as polite as possible and accustom yourself to a routine that can be a general guideline for each table. Every restaurant and banquet hall will have different serving codes to follow, but don’t be afraid to add your own in the mix! For example, anytime throughout the night I am waiting for a drink to be made, or an order to come out, I make it a routine to take a quick walkthrough by all my tables. This gives me an opportunity to clear a plate, offer a drink or even just show presence. This is a quick task that demonstrates my dedication to their guest experience.
Another point to bring up is to never take things personally. Just like anyone else in 
your regular life, you never know what kind of day they’re having. Some customers might just be having a bad day, and it is your job to not let them get to you. If anything, use it as an opportunity to cheer them up! Every guest loves a fun and humorous server – regardless of their mood. It is this mindset that will set you apart from others in the industry.
Whether you are in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, or Montreal, these work habits are universal. The more convenient the experience, the happier your guests will be. You will receive a much more positive outcome just by considering your guests perspective. At Bartendo, we keep convenience in mind every step of the way. You can rent a bartender, use our bar service and servers or take advantage of our custom mobile bar rentals. We take event staffing seriously –thus why the customer perspective will always be a priority in our books.
This pre-wedding ceremony is often overlooked and may be the last on the planning list. Luckily, we scoured the city for the best places to host your rehearsal wedding! We didn’t just find the best tasting restaurants, but we found the spots that also had excellent servers, bartenders and event staff! After long hours of practicing, you need the perfect place to unwind, refresh and get ready for the big day. Sweet and chic, here are the top 5 restaurants in Toronto to hold your next rehearsal dinner at.
Canoe Restaurant
Location: 66 Wellington St. W, TD Bank Tower, 54th Floor.
Contact: 416.364.0054
canoerestaurant.com
Not only is this spot conveniently located just minutes from Union Station, but it is delicious too! Using contemporary Canadian cuisine, Canoe creates dishes that reflect Canada’s diverse landscape, history and culture. With over 20 years of culinary history, their chefs source the finest ingredients from across the nation by working closely with farmers and suppliers.
Whether you decide to make a small reservation in the restaurant, or want a private dining experience, both are available options! You can book a private dining room that can accommodate as small as 24-seated guests or as many as 140-seated guests. Featuring bundled wood, chandeliers, moss-covered wall art, and copper accents, this spot is an authentic representation of Canadian culture. Featuring large windows, it is the stunning view of Lake Ontario that really seals the deal for Canoe’s guests.
“It’s true you can’t eat a view, but the one from Canoe will never, ever get tired.”
– Chris Nuttall-Smith
Copacabana Brazilian Steakhouse
Location: 230 Adelaide St, W.
Contact: 1.888.432.6721
thecopa.ca/home
Have a taste of authentic Brazilian cuisine by visiting this unique and flavourful spot! All you can eat; this is just the place to stuff your bellies full. Featuring 16+ cuts of meat, Copacabana offers an escape to Canada’s Urban Rodizio. In many parts of Brazil the restaurants offer a fixed price for people to taste various combinations from the menu. Inspired by a southern Brazil region, known as the Pampa region, this restaurant brings their BBQ culture to life. Carvers will cut various styles of meat fresh at your table, and you are free to order as many times as you like! Lets not forget about the “Galleria” of buffet-style options including fresh baked breads, fresh cheese, hand sliced charcuterie selections and many other salads and starters.
If your dinner rehearsal is looking for an energetic evening, you will definitely want to book this place! Booking on a Monday – Thursday, you can have a quiet evening with the option of booking a private room that is available for up to 200 guests. If you’re not a fan of the Rodizio style menu, Copacabana will create a meal package that works best for you. Book on a Friday or Saturday, and you’ll get to experience spectacular live entertainment. To top it all off, they have a personal mixologist too! NLIMITED
“Meat lovers paradise! It’s a constant flow of the best tasting grilled meat you ever had.”
– TripAdvisor
Café Boulud
Location: 60 Yorkville Ave.
Contact: 416.963.6000
cafeboulud.com/toronto/
Rooted in French tradition, this restaurant serves a seasonally changing menu that combines bistro classics with contemporary dishes. Chef Daniel Boulud gears his kitchen up with a rotisserie he uses to slow roast some of his best meat dishes around town. Choose between dining in a vintage-inspired ambiance, semi-private room or their spirited lounge. Your rehearsal dinner will be flexible as with these 3 options, you can choose an intimate, casual or upbeat setting.
Their spirited lounge has a DJ playing every Mon – Saturday evening if you are looking for a party atmosphere. For smaller dinners, the private room can fit up to 8 people by still giving you the main dining hall experience. If you need more room, Café Boulud offers reservations ahead of time for up to 125 guests. Located out of the Four Seasons Hotel, you can book a place to sleep and a night to eat! This Location is fitting for all parties looking for a convenient and tasty evening.
“To me, there’s no great chef without a great team.”
– Chef Daniel Boulud
Buca King West
Location: 604 King St W.
Contact: 416.865.1600
buca.ca/king.html
Buca Osteria & Enoteca opened in 2009 and they have already expanded to 3 locations across the city. Internationally celebrated, this place picks the best locally sourced food and only uses seasonal ingredients! Inspired by classic Italian tradition, Buca intrigues its guests with house-cured meats, pizza and pasta. This place is the perfect toss up of modern dining and old world recipes, creating a truly satisfying experience.
Seating up to 20 people, this will be an easy pick to please all your guests. Not too energetic and not too calm, this place has the perfect balance if you’re looking for a relaxing rehearsal dinner. Book online, or give them a call to inquire more about their party packages. This place will surely spark your taste buds just in time for the wedding!
“…I would’ve licked the sauce off my plate if I respectively could have.”
– Jamie Sarner
George Restaurant
Location: 11C Queen St East.
Contact: 647.496.8275
georgeonqueen.ca
As you may already know, many say that the George is the best restaurant in Toronto. Recently named the 2014 Canadian Culinary Champion, Chef Lorenzo Loseto is the Executive Chef of this popular restaurant. George provides seasonally sourced menus that create a unique and tasty experience every single time. Available a la carte or as a tasting menu, the options are almost endless in this lifetime experience.
With wines curated by their sommelier team, there is no doubt nothing awaits but warmth and tasty endeavors. Their private dinning areas can fit up to 64-seated guests by providing the same décor and cuisine as the George, but with complete privacy. Customizable and reliable, this is the place where options are available and beauty is everywhere. Take advantage of this place by indulging in their art of wine pairing!
“You will be delighted, tempted and intrigued by the adventure in gastronomy at this magical Canadian small-plates specialist.”
— Zagat
With the winter blues attacking us at every corner, we must do all that we can to beat it off. Some of us prefer to slap on our reading socks, snuggle up to a pillow and hibernate in front of the fireplace. Others prefer to pull on their highest heel boots, drape their shoulders with the heaviest trench coat and wrap their necks with the warmest scarf for a night out in town. However you’re feeling, just know there is always a way to battle the blues.
For those in the food industry, winter means late night shifts are even harder than usual. With temperatures well below 0, the evening is the time of day most people will be hiding inside. Since we all don’t have the luxury of staying in, there is only one thing left to do – beat the winter blues before they beat you.
1. Keep Warm
It is scientifically proven that the cold makes people more prone to depression. This is why you must keep warm at all costs. For those commuting long hours on the bus or train, it is especially important to take all measures possible to ensure optimal warmness. Forget shoe fashion for a few months, and buy yourself a real winter boot that will not just keep you warm, but keep your feet dry too.
Stock your closet with waterproof gloves, well-knit scarves, warm hats and fluffy socks. For your legs, layer up! Either put a pair of long johns under your jeans, or slap on a pair of sweatpants over top of your outfit. Personally, I like the sweatpants option. It is quick to take off when at your destination and easy to store in your bag until your ready to commute home. Arm and leg warmers are also an easy addition that makes all the difference on those windy, cold days. Remember, you must keep warm – inside and out!
Make a stop at the grocery store and buy yourself your most preferred hot beverage. Whether it’s coffee, tea or hot chocolate, buy enough that you can keep on hand for those chilly days and nights. After a long day or night at work, this will be the perfect drink to indulge in that will only bring you warm pleasures. You can also prepare yourself a mug to go every morning to help keep the blood flowing. Keeping warm inside means staying positive! If you have to, take the time to read a positive quote or affirmation every morning. This 30-second task will be just what you need to set the mood for the rest of your day.
2. Distract Yourself 
Keep your mind healthy and warm by getting out there and fulfilling your relationships. As mentioned earlier, whether your staying in or going out, make sure you are doing something you genuinely love. If you want some alone time, pick up your most loved book and give it a read. If you’re not into reading, put on your favourite movie and watch it while you snuggle up under your coziest blanket. Light a candle and create an ambience that will keep you calm and collected.
For servers and bartender, it is even more of a challenge to see loved ones as you are most likely working weekends – a time when others are usually off work. Don’t let this be a discouragement as time management will be your best friend. Try making plans during the week. Even if it is for a quick coffee or snack, 1 hour with your best friend will make you feel better than if you didn’t see them at all. Also don’t be afraid to book a night off! Talk to your boss and pick a day you can plan a get together with your friends. Even if it is only one day out of the long winter period, you will surely be looking forward to it and your mind will be distracted until the date occurs.
Lastly, hang out with your coworkers – they will be experiencing the winter blues too! If anyone can relate, it is the people that work in your industry and feel the suffering just as equally. Take initiative and make a point to plan a staff social! Since everyone’s friends are either in bed or already out for the night, you can lean on each other for the late night company and benefit by distracting your mind.
3. Eat Healthy and Exercise
This seems absurd, since it is the coldest time of the year. All people want to do is lock themselves up in their warm homes and shut out the cold until they have to endure it. This is wrong – get yourself out there! Even if it is just a 10-minute walk, make an effort to layer up and get your muscles moving – regardless of the weather. As many people enter the chilly air wearing their office outfit, it may be hard to overcome the barriers. Since you are only going for a walk for yourself, scratch the fashion statements and pull out those snow pants. Once you are wearing the proper attire and get yourself out the front door, you will realize it is not as painful as you think!
Other than walking, buy a membership at a gym or start an at-home exercise schedule. You don’t need to overdo it. Even just 15 minutes a day will peak your endorphins and keep you naturally happier. Try a yoga sequence, or search some quick workout videos on YouTube. Not only is it free, but also you can pick or combine any routines you want! From beginner to intermediate, the Internet has endless customizable options. Even setting aside 3 times a week of 20 minutes a day will do your brain wonders. If you don’t have enough space, improvise! Do 20 sets of the stairs in 3 intervals, or use a chair in your house to do dips to get your arm muscles moving. Again, the Internet has a ton of effective and creative ways to get your exercise in while at home.
Eating healthy doesn’t necessarily mean dieting. It means eating the right foods in the right portions. If you work at a restaurant, it is tempting to eat there every night especially if you get a killer discount. No matter what dish you order, it is always healthier to eat in than to dine-out! Try bringing a homemade lunch on your next shift. Sandwiches, soups and dinner left overs are easy options that you can store in the fridge and prepare quickly on your break. Make a point to eat a cup of fruit in the morning, limit your carbs and hydrate frequently! Water is always better than juice. This easy substitute will make all the difference for your weight, skin and overall health.
For all event-staffing agencies, keep these facts in mind when you hire a bartender or server. This is statistically the hardest month for workers – including you! Spread the warmth by spreading the message to keep your staff healthy and strong. At Bartendo, we have a large roster of bartenders and servers. We let them choose when they want to work, so they can perform at the highest standard whenever they come in! Contact us today if you have any questions or want to use one of our services to keep you in the warmth by bringing the party to you!
The sun may be shining through the window, with the house feeling warm and cozy. I can assure you though; outside is probably not as welcoming. The white landscape is endless, the air cold and the roads flooded with slush. Not all of us find the beauty in this time of year, but I definitely do! Considering winter is one of the less common seasons worldwide, this is the perfect time to bask in the benefits it brings.
Although you may be wondering why, planning a wedding 
in the winter could be your best life decision thus far. Lets start with the most convincing factor – it’s more affordable! As January and February is the slowest time of the month for most venues, caterers and event staffing agencies, quotes are significantly cheaper. If saving money isn’t convincing enough, than check out these top 3 winter wedding ideas that will surely have your guests swooning.
1. The Attire
Typically held in the warmer months, the attire for both the bride, and bridesmaids is
light, colourful and breezy. Obviously the bride won’t be as colourful, but you will bet her wedding will be! Hosting an event in the winter is a time to consider the weather and be creative with it. Faux fur will add a spectacular touch to an outfit and keep your wedding party warm. Layering up on tights underneath the dress will also be a great measure to take to keep you nice and warm. Now that heat isn’t a determining factor, you will have more choices as well. Add a Russian hat, hand-knit scarf or cashmere trench coat. All are beautiful and unique options that are only doable in the winter months and create a truly unique photographic experience.
2. The Decor
Whether you choose warm or cool tones, make sure you stick with it. With less sunlight in the winter, you can plan your lighting accordingly. The benefit here is the option of keeping your wedding festive. Spread white Christmas lights along windowsills, or hang
them against a backdrop that surrounds your walls. Add candle lanterns in other dim areas to keep the theme strong, and the ambience calm. Winter nuts, pinecones and evergreens are a few of the festive decorations that will be easy table pleasers. Log slices, fir foliage, cinnamon sticks and winter berries are also other decorations that you can combine, separate or use to compliment each other in any stage of the decorating process. Ornaments as escort cards, edible glitter to top the cake and homemade candles as centrepieces are only a few of the creative ways you can express your winter wedding just right.
3. The Offerings
Lip balm, wine glasses, sunglasses, coasters – you name it – this is where the guests take home a gift of appreciation for attending such a special day. Flavoured hot chocolate, winter gloves, and hand warmers are all cute favours to offer your guests. Not only will it be used, 
but appreciated too! Don’t be afraid to spread wedding offering across different times of the night to keep the winter theme going. Offer a basket of blankets for the outside portion of the wedding, and maybe offer some heating pads on the way in! Offering fresh cocoa, coffee or mulled wine is also another festive way of providing a unique, and sensible feel for your guests.
As mentioned earlier, cheaper rates mean room for more choices! Your wedding bartender and professional photographer will also have discounted rates. Have fun with your photo shoot as it isn’t too often the backdrop consists of a blanket of snow, trees sparkling with ice and loose snow cascading off every branch that moves. Snuggle up under a blanket together, pose with a snowball or just simply relish in the scenery of the season. Creating a lifetime of keepsake pictures will never be easier than this time of year.
Also take advantage of cheaper rates by ensuring your venue is prepared by using the extra money to hire a bartender, rent a portable or mobile bar, offer supreme bar service and maximize your event staffing needs. Adding these small services to your winter wedding will not only give your guests a personalized feel, but you will be prepared to serve hot drinks, alcoholic beverages and refreshments with ease. Cozy and comfortable, this is the only season it would be acceptable to hang the jingle bells and ring the wedding bells all at the same time.
After all the hosting, serving and bartending I have done, I can safely say there are two distinguishable types of event hosts. The first is the genuine host who likes to be the one to do it and often does. The second type is the obligated host. This is the person who is only hosting because they feel they have to. Whether it is their turn in the family round of parties, or they feel obligated because of pressure from surrounding relationships, both are no excuse to be a bad host. With New Years approaching, I have these tips that will have your guests pleased, and allow yourself to enjoy the party too.
1. Plan Ahead
Being prepared seems to be a reoccurring theme amongst how-to articles in almost any genre. The idea is how you apply it in each scenario and executing your plan successfully. You don’t want to run out of dip, fall short on cups, or have an overload of shoes at the front door. You would be surprised at how easy it is to forget about these factors when caught up in the moment of event planning, especially if you’re the obligated host.
Create a brainstorm of everything you can think of and don’t be afraid to add to it as you progress in your plans. This will be your rough outline. From there, make a list of everything you need and separate it into categories. Food, cutlery, decorations, garbage bins and recycling bags are some of the basics you can start with. Buy everything you need and create a vision of where you are going to place it. If it’s easier, don’t be afraid to draw a rough sketch of the room and label your item placements from there.
The key is to place strategically to ensure a smooth party. Place snacks in a room where people are hanging out, but keep the dinner portions to one area. Self-serve is your best option as it allows you to relax once the food and drinks are out on the table. Once you’ve organized your thoughts, you are more likely to remember anything you may have forgotten and avoid the headache when the time comes.
2. Create a Clean Culture
You need to set the precedence on this one, as it easy for people to adapt a sloppy culture if you allow it. If you have to, buy an extra rug, even if it’s cheap so that you can create space anywhere else in the house without creating a mess. The winter can create a wet disaster at the front door; so don’t forget to buy a size appropriate rug! If your closet isn’t big enough for all the jackets, designate a chair for them so people can throw and grab as they please.
Another overlooked factor is the garbage. Place multiple garbage bags and place them in spots people can see. I’m not saying you need it in every room of the house, but make sure to spread them out where there is a large space or food and drinks are being held. Creating 
easy accessibility to garbage is going to promote the clean culture you were looking for.
Create matching creative signs to label important features of the party. Not only will less people ask you questions, but also encourage a more proactive environment. Over the bathroom, on top of the garbage and recycling, and on display on the food tables are all ideal places to put your signs. For the food table, you can indicate self-serve in a fun spirited way.
3. Invite Wisely
If this is a bigger celebration that extends past your family, ensure to invite wisely. You
really don’t need to have all your extended friends there, so stick to your guns on this one. Creating a list well in advance will enable you to feel it out without feeling the pressure. Remember, even if you’re obligated to host, your not obligated to throw a huge party. Invite your close family and friends first, send out an invite and see how comfortable you are with numbers once you start getting RSVPs. From there, you can decide to send out more invites, or keep it the way it is.
Another rule of thumb is to invite guests in groups or pairs. You don’t want to be entertaining everyone all night, especially if they don’t necessarily know each other. Still invite whom you want, but be flexible when considering if your friend can bring a guest even if it’s pushing your numbers a little further than you anticipated. It will pay off in the long run as you can mingle when you please and change any bags or refill any necessities easily.
4. Stay Cool
It may take some additional time managing, but the best thing to do is make the situation easier by having fun with it. You’ll find it less stressful than thought if you have a calm mindset and accept the help when offered. If you notice some people leaving plates everywhere, kindly pick it up and mention the garbage bin just across the room. You’ll be sure to get your point across without seeming frustrated. Keep in mind the likelihood of guests doing this isn’t very high if it’s not a huge party you’re throwing anyways.
Part of staying cool is to take a breather if you’re getting stressed. Take a moment and go
to your room where you can collect yourself or just sit down if you feel like it. With all the hustle and bustle, you deserve 5 minutes away! Even if the place seems to be getting messier, there is always helping hands. Leave it until the end of the night when there aren’t many people left so you can start tidying up. You’ll be sure the guests still remaining will automatically pitch in and the place will be clean before you know it.
Follow these tips for a smooth and enjoyable evening! Depending on the size of your party, you can always hire event staff to help execute your party plans effectively. Bartendo has affordable services that will make your New Years party even less stressful by doing all the hard work for you. Contact us to inquire and we will have answers to your entire event staffing needs.
Impress your guests this holiday season by creating these delicious and classic Christmas cocktails! Hot or cold, enjoy these heartwarming mixtures anytime over the winter holidays and bartend your tasty delights like a pro.
Mulled Wine
Ingredients:
- 1 (750 ml) bottle of dry red wine
- 1 orange, sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar
- 8 whole cloves
- Other optional garnishes: citrus slices (orange, lemon and/or lime), extra cinnamon sticks, extra star anise
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
Once simmering, reduce heat to medium-low and let wine sit for 15 minutes to 3 hours, depending on desired consistency. Once ready, strain in a glass of your choice and add your choice of garnish!
Eggnog
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- ½ to 1 ½ cup of bourbon, rum, cognac or a mix
- freshly grated nutmeg
Directions:
First, separate your eggs by placing yolks in one bowl and whites in another. Make sure to cover the whites and refrigerate until needed. Using the yolks, whisk it with sugar until it is smooth and creamy and has lightened in colour.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, cream and liquor. Once mixed, pour into the bowl with the egg and sugar. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Before serving, whisk the egg whites at a high speed until the whites are stiff. Pour the egg whites into the eggnog, and gently stir creating a frothy texture. When ready to serve, pour into desired class and grate fresh nutmeg on top.
Christmas Cookie
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
- 1 ounce Kahlua Coffee Cream
- 1 ounce Bailey’s Irish Cream
Directions:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, pour all ingredients in and shake it thoroughly. Once chilled, strain mixture into a glass of your choice!
Hot Buttered Rum
Ingredients:
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup dark rum
Directions:
Add water butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt in a saucepan. Bring ingredients to a boil using medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, remove from heat, pour in the rum and serve hot!
Hot Toddy
Ingredients:
- 8oz Hot Water
- 1 Bag Herbal Tea
- 1oz Bourbon
- 1 Tablespoon Honey
- 1 Lemon Wedge
Directions:
Boil water and once boiled, add your honey. Stir, and pour into a mug with your desired tea bag. Let steep for 2 – 3 minutes and stir to dissolve. Lastly, pour in bourbon, add a squeeze of lemon, stir and serve hot!
Need help? Contact us today to hire quality service to execute your party just right. Support staff, bartenders, servers and event staff are only a few of the services we offer!
Whenever I attend a party, I always look forward to exploring the venue. Whether it’s crystal chandeliers, vintage wainscoting or retro table settings, I always appreciate the beauty of a setting. From classy, to casual, every place can design their party rooms to wow guests, attract more renters and really set the mood of the party.
Since there is usually a reoccurring theme, many venues tend to portray similar styles of presentation. Typically, there is sparkly décor, extrinsic details and crisp backdrops. Whether you like the idea of bringing your own items to decorate, or leaving it up to the hall, picking a venue that accommodates your needs should be number one on your list.
Here are some unique venues to explore next time you are planning an event. Whether it’s for business, private reasons or a milestone celebration, these cool settings will surely impress your guests.
Toronto
Venue: The Toronto Island Venues
Location: 18 Wyandot Ave, Toronto, ON
Phone: 416.203.0965
Link: http://www.torontoislandvenues.com/
Not only will you be celebrating on an island, but also celebrating on an island filled with history. The island offers a church, rental space, and all other services required to run an event. Offering these services on the Island creates accessibility for those who are concerned about how to locate it otherwise. You can choose between The Algonquin Island Association, The Shaw House and The Wards Island Association. All 3 locations are island inspired, and have an individual charm to win any party planner over.
The AIA overlooks the city and the harbour, offering gorgeous skyline views and providing island life throughout the winter months. Holding up to 150 guests, this is the largest facility on the island. On the other hand, The Shaw House is meant for more intimate parties providing spacious rooms, gorgeous views and a fully equipped kitchen. With a capacity of 45 people indoors and 75 in the garden, it’s no wonder this spot is so popular for tasteful and small gatherings. Although the WIA is summer-only, it consists of a main hall, elevated stage, fenced green area and a covered porch running the length of the building. Fitting up to 145 guests, this spot is just steps away from the Ward’s Island ferry docks.
Venue: Distillery Events
Location: The Distillery Historic District, Toronto, ON
Phone: 416.203.2363
Link: http://www.distilleryevents.com/index.php?pg=home
This is the type of spot you book when looking to blow your guests away. Able to accommodate any size or type of event, Distillery Events will give you personalized and experienced service. Offering The Loft, Archeo, Fermenting Cellar and Cluny Private Dining, you surely won’t have trouble finding the best-suited space for your individual needs!
Archeo is located in the old carpentry shop and reflects its history with the 150-year-old reclaimed wood from the Gooderham and Worts days in all the table and bars. Holding up to 150 people, this is the spot you need to book if you’re looking for contemporary style and historic tradition.
The Loft is located in The Boiler House, offering a newly renovated event space with a stunning and dramatic backdrop for any event. Offering up to 80-seated guests, and 120 for cocktails, there is no staffing rate as this is the ideal location for a small-scale experience.
Fermenting Cellar is perfect for large events holding from 200 – 600 people depending on your event purpose. With a 35 ft. ceiling, 7,500 square foot space and radiant floor heating, this spot is a blank canvas that can be transformed into a dramatic backdrop to suit any partygoer’s needs.
Cluny Private Dining is unique in both its design and menu. Offering a large patio and private dining area, the options is endless when planning your next intimate gathering. Although not capable of accommodating a dance floor, DJ or a band, its functions cater to 30 – 80 people in a large space that is filled with fascinating custom details.
Montreal
Venue: Tour De Levis
Location: Parc Jean-Drapeau, Montreal, QC
Phone: 514.872.9013
Link: http://www.parcjeandrapeau.com/en/tour-de-levis-hall-rental-montreal/
Similar to the Toronto Islands and Distillery District, Parc Jean-Drapeau offers a variety of halls that is available for party rentals. Built in 1930, the Tour de Levis Tower is the one hall that stands out the most for a unique experience. As a highly recognized and historical landmark of the Montreal landscape, this 60 person capacity venue has the functions to deliver the perfect intimate function.
Only available from May to October, this spot will need bookings well in advance to accommodate for the high demand! A 157-step staircase is located inside that leads to the observation deck where guests have a 360-degree view of the islands, river, downtown Montreal and surrounding areas. With a large counter-bar space, this spot is perfect for a small and customizable party setting. Awe your guests with a rustic atmosphere and breathtaking views.
Venue: The AML Cavalier Maxim
Location: Old Port of Montreal: 333 Rue de la Commune O, Montréal, QC
Phone: 866.856.6668
Link: http://www.croisieresaml.com/en/our-boats/aml-cavalier-maxim-1/
Take your next event up a notch and host it on a boat! With the plethora of halls and venues always available to rent, your guests will love the unique option of renting a boat instead! Croisiéres AML is the company that provides such experiences, and for the sake of time, I have selected my personal favourite boat to host your next event on.
The AML Cavalier Maxim has a capacity of up to 800 passengers, providing a unique boat restaurant with delicious food options, glassed-in rooms, outside terraces and a unique atmosphere on each deck! Usually departing from the Convoyeurs Pire, in the Old Port of Montreal, this boat is suitable for any large gathering such as weddings, corporate parties, and holiday functions. The food is prepared on board, and professional crewmembers, servers and bartenders assist the event. With unrivalled comfort and a fully functioning dance floor, you can see why this would be the party to remember!
Vancouver
Venue: Pipe Shop Venue
Location: 115 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC
Phone: 604.985.2191
Link: www.pipeshopvenue.com
What stands out the most about this venue is its stunning waterfront views and flexible layout. The beautiful ocean can be appreciated through the large windows encompassing the building. Nothing is more calming than a waterfront view, especially when hosting a party. Event staff, servers, bartenders and guests will all value this special touch.
This 9,300 square foot building also has concrete floors, exposed wood beams, and high vaulted ceilings. This open concept building was originally built in the 1940s, and was once knows as the Pipefitters building. Now restored, this heritage building brings a rustic touch to any event.The venue comes as is – empty. This creates a great opportunity to personalize your party exactly how you want it. You can pick your tables, chairs, décor and caterers, making your event a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s perfect for corporate, business, wedding, and other big events that require optimal space.
Venue: Caulfeild Cove Hall
Location: 4773 South Piccadilly Rd, West Vancouver, BC
Contact: 604.812.7411
Link: https://www.caulfeildcovehall.ca/
On the contrary, this venue is perfect for intimate gatherings that don’t require a massive guest list. The building overlooks the historic Cove, beside Lighthouse Park, also making this a waterfront experience. Located in the woods, this environment is peaceful, secluded and perfect for nature lovers.
It also has a high vaulted ceiling, but embodies beautiful crystal chandeliers that add a special ambiance to your event. It has it’s own entrance lobby and stairs and is equipped with 150 chairs, 14 round tables, 10 rectangular tables and a large, fully equipped kitchen for catering.
Connected to the hall, the lounge has coffee tables, comfortable armchairs, a gas fireplace and glass doors and windows that open onto a Courtyard with wooden benches and a beautiful paperbark maple tree. With the option of ordering more furniture, this place is flexible, cute and ideal for intimate celebrations.
Most of these venues include bartenders, servers and other event staff. Please contact us today if you need extra staff or would like to get more information on our packages!