Storybook Wedding at Au Vieux Moulin in Rigaud, QC | Stephanie & Shaun
A romantic and festive wedding at an historic mill just outside of Montreal
Au Vieux Moulin is a fairytale inspired wedding and event venue that sits on an astounding 10-acre property in Rigaud, Quebec, about an hour outside of Montreal.
Coming onto the property the historic mill sits amidst expansive gardens and boasts a large pond, wooded areas, foot bridges, babbling brooks and even horses! It’s truly like stepping out of busy urban life in nearby Montreal and into a romantic and cinematic movie landscape.
This venue was perfect for the vision that Steph and Shaun had. Steph’s gown from La Jolie Robe was grand and dramatic (like her outgoing personality!) and yet soft and feminine. And that train! Shaun honoured his heritage in full highland dress, and the processional and recessional were lead by one of the top Montreal bagpipers Graham Batty.
Au Vieux Moulin owners Caroline and Doug Young take a very personal approach to event planning. Caroline was my point of contact and she possessed a calm and knowledgeable energy that I sensed immediately when I met her at the rehearsal appointment. The couple was in great hands to ensure their day would be perfect. Caroline invited me to tour the grounds as I wished. On this late summer evening before Steph & Shaun’s early Fall wedding, the light was beautiful. The property is layered with texture from the building’s stone walls laced with creeping vines to the gentle tall grasses, water features and big, bold flowers. All elements that add magic to romantic wedding photos. Upon seeing my tour photos, Caroline said to me that I “get” this place. And I truly believed I did. I am now grateful to be on their list of preferred vendors for this best kind place.
About the author:
Hi, I’m Lucy; a wedding photographer serving the areas of Montreal, West Island of Montreal and Monteregie. With a new family connection to our most remote province, I would love the opportunity to photograph weddings in Newfoundland.
I specialize in BESTKND Weddings; intimate events with the warmth of a celebration but the freedom feels of an elopement. Imagination is your best kind of luxury in planning a day that feels exactly like you.
I am happy to serve in English, French and Polish. Sto lat! Reach out to me here.
Why Couples might choose au vieux moulin as their bestknd wedding place
You are in great hands with the owners who have operated the venue for over 25 years and can help with every detail of your wedding day. The venue doesn’t need a lot of decor because the backdrop and the historic features of the mill are more than enough. Couples can bring in their own personal touches of course. The mill can accommodate up to 105 guests for a seated dinner. Au Vieux Moulin lists their preferred vendors to make it easy to plan your event with those familiar with the location.
The grounds with the waterfront gazebo, the 3-tier terrace and elegant reception room provide versatility and flow for a relaxed wedding and provide a multitude of photographic opportunities. It’s also very private and your celebration is truly your own, as yours is the only event.
Because of its large property, Au Vieux Moulin feels like a true retreat but it is about only an hour’s drive west of Montreal, and even less if you’re in the West Island or off-island Montreal.
Planning your wedding at Au Vieux Moulin
Getting Ready
Couples can opt to carry out all wedding festivities directly onsite if they wish. Shaun got ready in a section on the main floor, and Steph got ready downstairs. While there is no natural light in that area, makeup lights were brought in and gave dramatic flair to the images which fit the aesthetic. There is a direct walkout to the base floor of the terrace, because the mill is built into the slope. Steph easily stepped out into beautiful light so we could photograph the final touches on her gown, in an area private from where Shaun was, and where guests were coming in.
First Look
Steph opted for a first look with her father and with Shaun. Midday, we found some shade around the front of the building, just down the footpath. Again it was private from where guests were headed so that they could enjoy these quiet, personal moments. It was so emotional, especially with her father. He’s a crier and it was so sweet!
Ceremony
The gazebo is the perfect place by the water for the ceremony. There is a nice view at every angle and both Summer and Fall each bring in a special look - lush greenery or shifting colours.
Reception
The upstairs room is versatile and rustic yet modern. Cocktails are held on the back terraces where there is a bar. Guests can take in a sunset view up top, or stroll the grounds. With Steph and Shaun’s group, some of the kids had a blast running around and playing games on the property — ample space to expend their energy!
Sunset Portraits
The property has lots of space for couple portraits but I found the back open field just past the pond an ideal spot. We were in that area just as the sun was hitting the tree line — something to be aware of when planning the portrait session. Light is lost quickly when the sun dips below the trees. Au Vieux Moulin sits of 10 acres. Way to much property and not enough time on a wedding day, but the areas around the building are so picturesque that we didn’t have to go far for both amazing photo backdrops and privacy for portraits while guest enjoyed cocktails.
Where to stay and what to do in or near Rigaud
Auberge du Mont-Rigaud: Closest to the venue; quaint in a natural environment
Maison Hudson: A boutique experience
Travelodge by Wyndham Rigaud: Less than 2km away from the venue
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vaudreuil-Dorion: Along the route from Montreal; good amenities
Chateau Vaudreuil: Luxury off-island
Paradisos spa: For some pre-wedding pampering
If Au Vieux Moulin isn’t exactly your place but you love the area of Rigaud, there are other venues nearby that may be the one. Check out other options in my venue directory here.
Ceremony and reception location: Au Vieux Moulin in Rigaud
Photographer: Lucy Baum Photography
Montreal DJ: That’s Amore Productions
Makeup: Taylr'd Beauty
Rings: La Forge d’Or
Wedding Dress: La Jolie Robe
Catering: Mackoli Catering
Bagpiper: Graham Batty