Choosing a space for a celebration of life can feel overwhelming. When my husband Michael passed away, I knew something important right away: I wanted to honour his life with people he loved. At the same time, I didn’t want a dark or gloomy room in a funeral home. Instead, I hoped for a place filled with light and warmth — a space that could hold meaning and be remembered with tenderness. Because of that, I began imagining venues that felt open, beautiful, and memorable. In the search that followed, I found myself drawn to places that felt more like gathering spaces than traditional service halls. That shift in perspective made all the difference. I wasn’t looking for formality; I was looking for connection and reflection.
Honouring the Space He Loved
Michael had always been captivated by architecture. For example, he loved the stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings in churches. He appreciated the way light moved through a room and how a pipe organ could fill a space with sound. Even though we weren’t part of a religious community, his admiration for those environments stayed with me. Because of this, I began exploring venues with similar qualities. I wanted space that would feel uplifting, not heavy, as people gathered to celebrate his life. Furthermore, I knew it had to accommodate a large community. In the end, more than 250 people attended Michael’s celebration of life. Friends and family travelled from all over the world to be there.
A Quiet Conversation That Stayed With Me
One night in the hospital, Michael said something I’ll never forget. He wondered aloud if anyone would come to his funeral because, in his own mind, he wasn’t sure who his friends were anymore. However, the reality was very different. In fact, he had more friends than anyone I’ve ever known. When the room filled with people who loved him, I hoped that somehow he smiled in that moment.
Why I Took My Time
At the same time, I knew I wasn’t ready to plan anything right away. I needed time to grieve, and my child needed time too. I didn’t understand why society expects families to plan a funeral within a week. During those early days, I couldn’t think clearly, and making decisions felt impossible. Because of that, I made a deliberate choice: I would do this differently. Instead of rushing, I gave myself permission to wait. In doing so, I created something that felt meaningful and true — something that would make Michael proud
Trinity-St. Paul’s: The Right Place
About three months after Michael passed, we held his celebration of life at Trinity-St. Paul’s United Church & Centre for Faith, Justice and the Arts on Bloor Street. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew the space felt right. Sunlight streamed through stained-glass windows, and the ceilings soared above us. In the sanctuary, the atmosphere felt reverent without being heavy. Meanwhile, the reception area was warm and welcoming, with room for everyone to gather, converse, and remember. The staff were attentive, helpful, and compassionate throughout the planning process. As the bagpiper played Amazing Grace and we walked down the aisle, I felt something close to peace. In that moment, it seemed likely that Michael would have treasured it.
Why it works:
- Grand, light-filled sanctuary with stained glass and high ceilings
- Large capacity suitable for 200+ guests
- Beautiful adjoining reception spaces
- Welcoming to non-denominational services
- Experienced staff accustomed to large, meaningful gatherings
If you’re looking for a space that feels sacred without being restrictive, Trinity-St. Paul’s is truly special.
Other Beautiful Celebration of Life Spaces in Toronto
Before choosing Trinity-St. Paul’s, I explored many other venues across the city. Each of the spaces below offers something unique — whether that’s warmth, light, flexibility, or the ability to host a larger group.
Creeds Coffee Bar
Creeds offers a warm, intimate atmosphere with character and history. It’s ideal for smaller celebrations or receptions, especially for those who want a relaxed, café-style gathering that encourages conversation and connection.
The Loft of King Street
A bright, modern loft with exposed brick, tall windows, and flexible layouts. It’s well-suited for contemporary celebrations of life that include speeches, slideshows, or live music.
Toronto Event Space Rentals
This venue offers adaptable spaces that can be styled to reflect the person being honoured. It’s a good option if you want creative control over décor, seating, and flow.
Centre for Social Innovation (CSI)
CSI spaces are clean, modern, and purpose-driven. They work well for gatherings that feel thoughtful and inclusive, especially for people who valued community, activism, or social impact.
Hart House, University of Toronto
Hart House offers historic architecture, elegant rooms, and a sense of tradition. It’s a strong option for larger gatherings that want a refined, academic, or cultural atmosphere.
The Heintzman House
A heritage home with warmth and charm, surrounded by greenery. This venue is well-suited for more intimate celebrations with a classic, residential feel.
Evergreen Brick Works
For those who loved nature, sustainability, and open space, Evergreen Brick Works offers a stunning backdrop. Natural light, greenery, and industrial beauty combine to create a memorable setting.
The Symes
A striking Art Deco venue with dramatic architecture and large capacity. It’s ideal for bold, creative celebrations that step outside traditional expectations.
The Great Hall
With its arched windows, balcony, and historic charm, The Great Hall can accommodate large crowds while still feeling intimate. It’s well-suited for music-forward or performance-based celebrations.
Give Yourself Permission to Take Your Time
Once you’ve chosen a space, details like music for a celebration of life can help create an atmosphere that truly reflects the person you’re honouring. A celebration of life does not need to happen right away. There is no rule that says you must rush through one of the most meaningful moments of remembrance you’ll ever create. Take the time you need. Choose a space that reflects the person you’re honouring. Let it be beautiful. Let it be filled with light. Let it hold the stories, the laughter, and the love. That choice mattered more than I ever expected — and it’s a memory I will always cherish.
