Custom Gown in an Eaton Hall Inn Wedding | Nicolette + Justin

Mutual friends introduced Justin and Nicolette, and the connection was instant. But it was the little things over time that turned the spark between them into love. A trip to Portugal opened their next chapter together. In Justin’s parents’ hometown, upon some large rocks while the sea roared, Justin asked Nicolette to be his partner for life!

Two years later to the day, they married at the Eaton Hall Inn.

From Portugal Proposal to Toronto Perfection

Nicolette’s search for the right classic, elegant wedding dress was less straightforward. “I had a vision of something timeless and romantic,” but after trying 15 gowns, she still hadn’t met her match. That is until she visited our Toronto bridal shop. “When I tried on the dress, I felt that instant spark — elegant but effortless. It was the first time I looked in the mirror and truly saw myself as a bride.”

Get the details and see more of Nicolette and Justin’s day – including their huge Frutti Di Bosco wedding cake and their adorable dog Balex – below!

How did the two of you meet?

Justin and I met through mutual friends in the hospitality industry — our circles had crossed a few times, and eventually, it just felt natural to start spending more time together. We connected instantly and have been inseparable ever since.

When did you realize Justin was your person?

It was never one big moment, more like a series of small, meaningful ones. He supports me through everything, and has this calm, steady energy. Justin was very good at keeping tabs of what I like and incorporated these plans on our dates.

Could you share your engagement story?

Justin proposed during our trip to Portugal in August 2023 on August 9th; the same date we chose to get married two years later. It was in his parents hometown Barra de Mira on some large rocks with the ocean being our backdrop.

Tell us about finding your gown! What made you realize it was perfect?

I had a vision of something timeless and romantic. When I tried on the dress, I felt that instant spark — elegant but effortless. It was the first time I looked in the mirror and truly saw myself as a bride after trying on at least 15 dresses.

What atmosphere did you want to create on your day?

We wanted the day to feel warm, joyful, and romantic surrounded by our favourite people. Every detail, from the florals to the music, reflected that mood.

What little details are you especially glad you included?

Having a saxophonist play modern songs during our cocktail hour was such a hit — it set the perfect tone for the night. I’m also so glad we carved out a few minutes just for the two of us before joining the reception. Details our guests still talk about today are the cocktail napkins with our dog Balex printed, and our very large 3 foot Frutti Di Bosco wedding cake.

What part of your wedding celebration felt most meaningful to you both?

Our ceremony — it was simple and emotional, surrounded by the people who’ve supported our relationship from the start. It felt like time stood still for a moment.

Any advice for couples currently planning their wedding?

Try to soak in the process, it really does go by so fast! Don’t stress about perfection; focus on the meaning behind it all. The day will be perfect because it’s yours and no one will notice what things you will need to likely pivot the day of.

Justin + Nicolette's Eaton Hall Inn Wedding Vendors

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Tags: ballgowns, custom gowns