- BY Randy Stratton
- IN Wedding Ceremonies
Posted On: 9th of March 2026
This past summer we had the honour of officiating a Wedding at CJ’s Events In Rockwood, Ontario. CJ’s is a spectacular outdoor venue with a real country vibe. CJ’s features include bride/grooms cabins, a rustic open wedding arbour, a reception facility that allows for wonderful photos and a spectacular horse drawn carriage for the Bride to enter the ceremony location. The Bride and Groom took full advantage of the CJ’s complete offering. Two days prior to their wedding ceremony, the couple had a wedding rehearsal that was very detailed making sure all of the key pieces of the wedding ceremony and reception were discussed and practiced.
Other Great Wedding Venues in Southwestern Ontario
- The Oxford Hills (Ingersoll): Features a "Hilltop" spot with panoramic views, a "Waterfront" area by a pond, and a brand-new indoor/outdoor venue.
- Wheatfield Estate (Sparta): A 5-acre estate near London with options for a woodland ceremony, meadow tent reception, and lush gardens.
- The Fieldstone Barn (Elora): Offers a 17-acre farm setting with a 170-year-old stone barn, flower fields, and outdoor ceremony sites.
- Cranberry Creek Gardens (Lynedoch): Known for its rustic, romantic feel with a historic chapel and expansive gardens.
- Timber Barn (St. Jacobs): Offers a rustic, elevated vibe with a riverside ceremony.
- Stratford Country Club: Offers a premier outdoor garden ceremony setting and views of an 18-hole golf course.
- Revival House: A restored 1871 church that provides a romantic, intimate garden space for ceremonies.
- Shakespearean Gardens: OA highly popular scenic spot for outdoor photos and ceremonies.
- The Old Mill: Features a tranquil historic setting right along the Avon River.
- The Fieldstone Barn: A rustic farm venue located near Stratford for a rural, country-style wedding.
- St. Mary’s Golf and Country Club. A hidden gem located just outside of St. Mary’s.
Planning an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony-Important Details To Consider
Reception/Weather preparedness
A tent should be in place in the event of inclement weather as well as sun protection should it be a hot day. Sides on the tent helps keep out wind or rain as well as any unwanted guests.
Food choices: Extreme weather can affect food and beverages; for hot weather, avoid items with frosting or ingredients that melt
Logistics and Accessibility
Parking: Designate a field or open space for parking if needed. Signage: Provide clear, visible signs to guide guests and vendors along rural roads and onto your property, ensuring everyone arrives safely and on time. If possible, provide a golf cart available for those with accessibility concerns
Guest Comfort and Amenities
Restroom facilities: Many rural sites lack permanent restrooms, so renting porta-potties may be necessary. Appropriate footwear: Inform guests about terrain—grass, gravel, or dirt—and advise suitable shoes. Bug control: Protect guests from mosquitoes and other pests to maintain comfort. Fans may be needed for an extreme hot day
Vendor and Supplier Coordination
Travel time and fees: Vendors may charge additional fees to service rural locations. Catering capabilities: Ensure your caterer is experienced with outdoor and rural venues.Timeline management: Prepare a detailed schedule for all vendors and share it well in advance.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Power source: Rural venues may have limited electricity, requiring a generator. Sound amplification: Outdoor spaces may make it difficult for guests at the back to hear the ceremony. Cell service and Wi-Fi: Remote areas can have spotty cell coverage and no Wi-Fi, so plan accordingly.
Hosting any size wedding in an outdoor setting can create one of the most special and memorable days of your life. With careful planning and attention to these details, your outdoor/countryside wedding can be both beautiful and stress-free.
Becky Jones and Randy Stratton Can Officiate Your Wedding
When hiring an officiant for your civil or religious/spiritual wedding, consider Becky Jones or Randy Stratton. As licensed wedding officiants in the Stratford, London and the Mississauga areas, they create unique and personalized ceremonies with a light, casual, and refreshing approach. As pastors for the Be In Christ Church of Canada, Becky and Randy ensure every ceremony is comfortable, welcoming, and meaningful.
If you want your wedding ceremony to be relaxing, enjoyable, and truly memorable, contact Becky Jones and Randy Stratton today. To schedule an appointment, call (416) 970-2900.
