Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after the ceremony?
A new members’ reception is held in the Frontenac Ballroom (lower level). The banquet starts at 7:30 p.m. so you may choose to return to your room between events if you are staying at the hotel.
What is the recommended dress for the ceremony/new members' banquet and dance?
In keeping with the magnitude and formality of the occasion, recommended dress is black tie. Women should consider cocktail attire suitable to a very formal occasion (e.g., a fancy wedding). For men, tuxedos are recommended and are usually the most popular form of dress. At a minimum, a formal dark business suit should be worn.
Are children allowed to attend the admission to membership ceremony and banquet and dance?
Neither event is designed with children in mind. We do not forbid you to bring children to the banquet and dance; however, CGA Ontario cannot make special arrangements (e.g., create an alternate meal). The price per person ($110 per person) still applies. As well, please keep in mind that the ceremony is approximately three and a half hours long and can be difficult for children to sit through. Out of courtesy for others, please remove a crying child from the room.
What if my guest is in a wheelchair?
People who require special accommodation for disabilities, are asked to attach the information to the Conference 2011: MORE registration form. Alternatively, contact Sharon Headley at 416-322-6520 or 1-800-668-1454, ext. 8219 or by email.
I would like to attend the banquet, what must I do?
If you plan on attending the banquet you must register for this event – registration for the admission to membership ceremony does not automatically include the banquet. New members are entitled to a complimentary registration, additional tickets are available at a cost of $110 per person plus HST.
What time should I arrive at the conference centre to prepare for the ceremony?
Please arrive in formal dress at the Westin Harbour Castle Conference Centre, in the Frontenac Ballroom, (lower level) at 1:30 p.m. for the orientation and line-up. Please check your coat and/or leave it and any other items with your ceremony guests.
On Saturday when you check in with CGA Ontario staff, you will receive a name card and CGA Ontario’s "oath of obligation" card.
The procession of new members will form in alphabetical order, in the Frontenac Ballroom and will leave from there at approximately 2:20 p.m.
Please arrive on time. Approximately 800 nervous people have to get themselves into alphabetical order. If you are late, you may not be able to find your place in the procession.
Where do my guests go while I am at the orientation and lineup?
Your guests are asked to proceed to the Metropolitan Ballroom (upstairs) where the ceremony takes place. Seating is limited. If your guest(s) want(s) to get the best seat possible, we recommend arriving early.
How many guests may I bring to the ceremony?
As the numbers admitted to membership seem to grow each year, we are forced to request that new members limit the number of guests attending the ceremony to two.
(Although we understand many people will find it difficult to narrow the selection down to two people to attend such an important milestone in your professional lives, we do want to ensure equitable access to guest seats for all new members, as well as adhere to the Westin Harbour Castle's capacity maximums as outlined in municipal fire and safety codes and regulations.)
Should I register guests for the ceremony?
No, when you register your attendance at the ceremony, you will receive two guest tickets with your confirmation.
Where is the admission to membership ceremony being held and how do I get there?
The Westin Harbour Castle & Conference Centre, Westin Harbour Castle Hotel, One Harbour Square, Toronto (at the foot of Yonge Street and Queens Quay).
By subway: From Union Station, take streetcars 509 or 510 and get off at the first stop — Queen’s Quay Station and go up the stairs.
Please see the map and get directions from here.
What time does the ceremony start and finish?
The ceremony starts at 2:30 p.m. and finishes at approximately 6 p.m.