Grand Shores

At Grand Shores, couples say their vows on a waterfront patio above Jeddore Harbour, where porpoises play in the water and ospreys circle overhead.

The venue sits in a fishing community on Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore, about 45 minutes east of Halifax. The reception space was once a lobster hold and has been transformed into a bright home for celebrations.

Ceremonies take place on the waterfront patio, where guests then linger for cocktail hour at the outdoor bar. Afterward, everyone moves into the Grand Room for dinner, speeches, first dances and dancing late into the night. If it rains, the ceremony and cocktails move to a bright ground level room.

The venue holds up to 180 guests and is wheelchair accessible, patio and washrooms included. Couples have private access from 5 pm the day before until 11 am the day after, along with two full service bars, a kitchen with a separate vendor entrance, and a waterfront, rock wall and gardens for photos.

Couples choose their own caterer, florist and photographer, and can add touches like a wooden arbour, linens and table wine. Pets are welcome at outdoor patio ceremonies, and accommodation is available within a kilometre.

For couples who picture golden hour by the water's edge and a big, joyful party with family close by, Grand Shores offers an Eastern Shore wedding full of coastal heart.