Lincoln Estates

Cross the bridge and the day changes pace. At Lincoln Estates, a castle-like estate among 10 acres of vineyard in the Niagara countryside, the ponds, gardens and vines become the setting for a celebration under the open sky.

Located in Lincoln, the estate is home to the Core winery and is operated by the family behind Edgewater Manor. Couples have exclusive use of the property, which is never shared with another party on the day of an event.

Ceremonies are held outdoors on the grounds, with standard ceremony chairs and a signing table included. In the event of rain, the ceremony moves into the tent and takes place from the guests' tables.

The reception takes place in a bright, airy outdoor tent of about 45 by 55 feet that overlooks the vineyards, manicured lawns and the pond, with seating for up to 150 guests. A patio with seating is also part of the setting, and all events over 30 guests are held outdoors.

For smaller gatherings, the Patio seats 30 or holds 60 standing, the West Wing seats 30 or holds 60 standing, and the South Wing seats 24 or holds 50 standing.

Food comes from the culinary team behind Edgewater Manor's fine dining restaurant, with custom menus built on locally sourced ingredients and made from scratch, so dietary needs such as gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and halal can be discussed. An authentic South Asian food option is also available, and guests can pair dinner with Core wines from the estate's own vineyard or selections chosen by an in-house sommelier.

The grounds, with their pond, castle and vines, are available to your photographer, and tables, linens, china and a staff member for day-of setup are included. There is ample free parking, though the estate does not offer overnight accommodation.

For couples who imagine vows among the vines and dinner beneath a tent as the Niagara evening settles in, Lincoln Estates offers a celebration with the romance of a countryside estate and the polish of fine dining.