Northbrook Farm Wedding Venue Guide
A Local Photographer’s Guide to Northbrook Farm Weddings
Last update: july 2026If you’re planning a wedding at Northbrook Farm in Severn near Orillia, you’ve chosen one of the most naturally beautiful outdoor wedding venues in Ontario.
I live just minutes from Northbrook and have photographed many weddings and events here. From golden hour portraits in the fields to candlelit receptions inside the tent, I know exactly how this property photographs and how to help couples build a timeline that takes full advantage of it.
This guide will walk you through ceremony locations, reception details, lighting considerations and practical planning tips so you can make the most of your Northbrook Farm wedding.
Preferred Northbrook Wedding Photographer
I’m a preferred Northbrook Farm wedding photographer based just minutes from the venue. After photographing weddings here for over a decade, I know how the property feels throughout the day, from quiet garden photos to golden hour in the fields, and how to help couples plan a relaxed timeline that makes the most of this beautiful wedding venue.
Why Couples Love Northbrook Farm
Northbrook Farm is a large property filled with gardens, mature trees, open fields and a charming Victorian home dating back to 1852. It offers the relaxed feel of a private estate while still providing the structure and amenities couples need for a smooth wedding day.
With a permanent 40’ x 75’ frame tent built on a concrete pad (no interior poles), clear sight lines and elegant chandeliers - it’s ideal for weddings of up to 160 guests.
What makes Northbrook Farm stand out among Orillia wedding venues is the balance between natural beauty and logistical ease. You have the freedom to personalize your day while knowing the essentials are already covered.
Best Ceremony Locations at Northbrook Farm
THE POND: The most popular ceremony spot features a tree canopy, koi pond and waterfall backdrop. It photographs beautifully, especially for late afternoon ceremonies when the light softens and filters through the trees.
THE WOODS: A more intimate and whimsical option surrounded by forest. This location works particularly well for smaller guest counts and couples wanting a forest feel without leaving the property.
THE GARDEN: Exchange vows in front of a vine-covered arbor surrounded by curated perennial gardens and hostas. This is suitable to smaller groups.
The House: For a classic estate aesthetic, the century home provides a timeless backdrop.
Reception Details & Lighting Inside the Tent
The permanent frame tent is bright and open with no interior poles, which is ideal for both guest visibility and photography.
Included amenities typically include:
24 harvest tables
150 folding chairs
150 ceremony chairs with setup
Rustic barn board bar
Podium
Microphone and PA system
Caterer’s prep tent and utility building
Water and electricity
Modern washroom facilities
Campfire area (staff tended)
From a photography standpoint, the white tent ceiling helps cast light evenly during dinner and speeches. The chandeliers and string lights create and warm atmosphere for dinner and dancing.
Planning Your Timeline at Northbrook Farm
One of the biggest advantages here is access time. Couples typically have access beginning Friday through Sunday at 11am. That flexibility reduces stress and allows for:
• Decor setup without rushing
• Rehearsal dinner or prep gatherings
• Relaxed tear-down Sunday morning
I often suggest building in 30 - 60 minutes in the late afternoon for portraits by the pond or in the open fields.
Rain Plan Considerations
Northbrook Farm’s tent provides excellent coverage for receptions and can accommodate ceremony adjustments if weather shifts. Because the tent is permanent and structured, you’re not relying on temporary shelter, wet grass etc.
For photography, we can use:
Covered areas in and near the tent
The tree-lined driveway
The forest canopy
Light rain portraits with umbrellas for dramatic effect
The property offers enough variety that weather rarely limits creativity.
Accommodations and Guest Convenience
Northbrook Farm is located at:
There’s plenty of free parking on-site
Good accommodation options for guests:
Fairfield Inn & Suites Orillia - 5 minute drive
Horseshoe Valley Resort - 15 minute drive
Because it’s just outside Orillia, guests can easily access Hwy 11, restaurants and amenities while still enjoying a private estate feel.
Why I Love Photographing Weddings at Northbrook Farm
Beyond the scenery, what makes this venue special is the care Laurie and Chris put into maintaining the property. The gardens are meticulously kept, the grounds are clean and organized, and the layout makes wedding days flow smoothly.
As a local wedding photographer, I appreciate venues where timelines run efficiently and staff communicate clearly - and Northbrook consistently delivers that.
From lawn games under the pines to sparkler send-offs on the patio this property allows couples to fully relax and enjoy their day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Northbrook Farm Weddings
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The venue comfortably hosts up to 160 guests under the reception tent. The pond ceremony location is set on a lawn with plenty of room for a large guest list. The Woods, Garden and House locations are better suited for small-medium sized guests lists.
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There is no barn or indoor space on-site besides the tent. The permanent frame tent serves as the primary reception space and backup location for rain-impacted ceremonies..
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This is season and weather dependent however in general, 3 - 4 hours before sunset is ideal at Northbrook. This way you have both shadow and full sun options at various locations around the property.
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Late afternoon is typically best. In most months, a 4:00pm ceremony works beautifully for most weddings because the sun has moved past its harsh overhead position and begins filtering through the trees. This creates softer, more even light on faces rather than strong shadows. It’s also more comfortable for guests and allows time afterward for a relaxed cocktail hour and photos.
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Yep, there’s plenty of complimentary on-site parking just steps from all of the key locations.
Getting Married at Northbrook Farm?
If you’re planning a Northbrook Farm wedding and are looking for an experienced wedding photographer who knows the property well, I’d love to connect below.
Because I live nearby and have photographed many weddings here, I can help you plan your timeline around the best light and locations on the property.
Northbrook Farm is one of the most charming outdoor wedding venues in Ontario - great choice!
Northbrook Farm Venue Information
Northbrook Farm Address: 3952 Fairgrounds Rd, Severn, ON L3V 0Y2
Northbrook Farm Reviews: See Reviews on Google
Northbrook Accommodations for Weddings: Popular hotel options are the Fairfield Suites and Horseshoe Valley Resort.
Northbrook has space for events with up to 160 Guests
Northbrook owners, Laurie and Chris Orser
Kind Words From my Northbrook Couples
