Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Fernie, British Columbia

Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Fernie, British Columbia

Located in the East Kootenays of the British Columbia Interior and nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Fernie is a mountain ski town with stunning landscapes and endless outdoor activities. If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the hustle and bustle of traditional weddings, opting for an intimate celebration surrounded by nature’s beauty, then eloping in Fernie, British Columba might be for you. There are many options for your ceremony with whatever backdrop you are looking for. The mountains surround the town, the stunning Elk River runs through and there are many close by lakes and forests.

Why Should you Elope in Fernie, British Columbia?

Fernie, with its stunning mountain landscapes, charming small-town vibe, and diverse array of outdoor activities, stands out as an ideal destination for couples looking to tie the knot in a unique and personal way. The town’s historic charm, combined with its natural beauty, creates an enchanting setting for an unforgettable elopement.

1. Natural Beauty: Imagine walking down the aisle with a view that screams, “Yeah, I’m better than your Pinterest board.” Fernie’s got those majestic peaks, pristine lakes, and forests straight out of a fairytale. Your wedding photos? Frame-worthy. Your Instagram feed? Next level. Get ready to make your friends swoon when you elope in this charming small-town in the Rocky Mountains.
2. Cozy Small Town Vibes: From the historic streets to the friendly locals who greet you with knowing smiles, Fernie is a small, quiet town where there are many untouched areas for your elopement, giving you more privacy than a more populated area or location. Even with a small town vibe, there is no shortage of restaurants, shopping or accommodation.
3. A Mecca for the Adventurous: Fernie is has endless outdoor activities right in town. From world-class fishing, downhill skiing, to mountain biking and hiking. You can include any of these activities to add to your elopement experience!
4. Less Expensive: Eloping in Fernie is a great way to spend less money then when having a traditional, big wedding. Rather than spending your budget on venues and food, you can use your budget on what’s most important to you, and ultimately, making your day an experience that focuses on you and your love story.

Fernie, British Columbia Elopement Activities

Elopement Activities in Fernie, British Columbia because Why Stop at “I DO”!

1. Hiking: Fernie has a vast trail network, with many hiking trails right out its backsteps, including the Three Sisters’ Summit, Heiko’s Trail or the many secluded hikes at Island Lake Lodge like Spineback Trail and Goldilocks Trail.
2. Mountain Biking: Hit the dirt and bike one or more of Fernie’s many bike trails, or get geared up for the downhill trails at Fernie Alpine Resort.
3. Skiing: Ski at Fernie Alpine Report, need I say more? Fernie has some of the best snow and there is no shortage of it every winter. Fernie is a winter playground for every outdoor enthusiast.
4. Nordic Skiing/Snowshoeing: Downhill skiing not your jam? Fernie has a variety of options when it comes to nordic skiing and snowshoeing if you are looking for more of a workout or you’d rather hang out with your dog!
5. Camping: There are several campgrounds in the area if you are wanting to escape to the wilderness to slow down and enjoy and reconnect with the natural beauty of your surroundings.
6. Fishing: Fernie is world-class when it comes to fly fishing with the stunning Elk River that runs through town and the many tributaries.
7. Paddleboarding: Hit up the many lakes that surround Fernie if you are looking for more of a chill adventure and a chance to hang out in the sun.

When Should You Elope in Fernie, British Columbia?

Every season in Fernie is beautiful and unique it’s own way so when you should elope in Fernie, British Columbia really depends on what you want out of your elopement experience and if you have any activities you’d like to include. It also depends on what you want the weather to be and what your surroundings look like. Here is a quick peek into what each season looks like in Fernie:

1. Winter: Winter in Fernie is from December to March. If you’re the couple whose idea of romance involves snowball fights and hot cocoa, winter in Fernie is your playground. Picture this: You, your partner and a winter wonderland as witnesses. Just remember to practice your vows between sips of cocoa – it’s all about balance.
2. Spring: Spring in Fernie from April Until June and is like the universe hitting the reset button. Wildflowers bloom, and the world wakes up from its winter nap. It’s the perfect season for a ceremony that’s as fresh and unpredictable as a moose deciding to crash your photoshoot.
3. Summer: Summer in Fernie seems short-lived but makes for jam packed adventure days. Summer is from mid-June to August. Summer in Fernie is a symphony of sunshine and adventure. Longer days mean more time for hiking, biking, and maybe a picnic by the Elk River.
4. Fall: Fall in Fernie is brief but beautiful, from September to November. Fall in Fernie is truly stunning. The leaves turn shades of gold and crimson, creating a backdrop that makes your love story look like a high-budget movie production. It’s the season of cozy sweaters, warm hugs, and golden larches.

How to Make it Legal!

To elope in Fernie (or British Columbia in general) you will need to obtain a marriage license to make it legal. Three months prior to your elopement day, you will need to get your marriage license. It costs $100 and only one partner needs to apply for the license, but you will need to bring an ID for both partners. You can get your marriage license at the Fernie Courthouse (Service BC location).

You will need to have two witnesses present during your ceremony to make it legal. Your photographer can be one of your witnesses, but your officiant cannot! You need to make sure you have another witness with you or make arrangements to get officially hitched prior to your elopement day.

Fernie Elopement Vendors

There are amazing vendors in this small, mountain town! From florals to catering to hair and make up. As your elopement photographer and planner, I will provide you with local vendor recommendations so you don’t have to do the research yourself!

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Fernie Elopement Photographer & Packages

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