As someone who’s been in your shoes, planning my own elopement, I get how important it is for your special day to feel authentic, be fun and stress-free. That’s where I come in, not just as your Alberta elopement photographer but also as your right-hand-gal to all the backend things that go into planning your day.
Whether you’re planning to come here from abroad or you’re an Alberta local, this Alberta elopement guide should give you some ideas on how to make your big day perfect! Let’s get into it!
Best Alberta Elopement Locations
Alberta is a dream come true elopement destination for all the wildly in love, adventurous couples! If you love being outdoors and the mountains, like I do, Alberta is the place for you!
There are 5 stunning national parks, epic hikes and many other picturesque spots for your elopement day! You can choose any spot you’d like, as long as it allows wedding ceremonies!
Here are some of my favourite Alberta elopement locations for inspo!
Banff National Park
With all the breathtaking landscapes, turquoise lakes, mountains and charming villages, Banff National Park is one of the most popular Alberta elopement locations. While Banff is a great choice for elopements, certain locations may require permits, especially if you plan to have your ceremony at a popular spot like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or Lake Minnewanka. You can check out the requirements here!
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park offers a more rugged and less crowded elopement experience compared to Banff. It’s known for its majestic mountain views, serene lakes, and gorgeous green forests.
If you’d like to elope in a public area, there isn’t a formal approval process, however, there are still some regulations. You can check everything about them here!
Kananaskis
If you’re a couple looking for rustic elopement vibes, Kananaskis Country is such a fun choice! This gem of a location is known for its rugged landscapes, mountainous terrain and lakes, making it PERFECT for adventurous couples.
While some areas in Kananaskis may not require permits, it’s always good to consult the Alberta Parks website for any potential restrictions and to verify if your chosen location is free to use!
Waterton Lakes National Park
Located in the southern part of Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park is another gorgeous elopement location. Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains and featuring prairies, lakes, waterfalls, and Red Rock Canyon, there are so many fantastic spots for your elopement!
Like other national Parks, Water Lakes may require permits for specific areas, and some sites are not free to use for your wedding at all. Get the scoop on this area here!
Stuck on choosing the perfect location for your Alberta elopement? This is exactly something I help all my eloping couples with! Just inquire with me here!
Best Time of Year to Elope in Alberta
The best time to elope in Alberta depends on your preferences for weather, scenery and level of intimacy. Summer gets REALLY crowded! Overall, many couples opt for the summer or early fall, but each season offers its unique charm and opportunities for a memorable elopement.
Spring Elopement in Alberta
Alberta really comes to life in spring with all the beautiful blooming wildflowers and foliage. The warming temperatures set a comfortable stage for your outdoor ceremonies, however, you should still be prepared for rain and potential snowstorms. You’ll also find that popular locations start to get busier in spring, as well.
Summer Elopement in Alberta
Summer is the most popular time of year for both visitors and elopements. If you’d like to elope in summer, be prepared that it will be quite crowded.
With longer days and more light, you’ll have plenty of time for fun activities and capturing stunning elopement photos. The comfortable morning and evening temperatures are perfect for romantic sunrise or sunset ceremonies. (I definitely recommend sunrise since this way, you’ll manage to avoid more crowds).
Summer in Alberta is also ideal for adventure-loving couples, offering great hiking and camping opportunities, and the chance to enjoy activities like swimming, boating, kayaking, or canoeing on the lakes. However, be mindful of the heat, as some days might be too hot for comfort. Afternoon rain showers, while often brief, are also a possibility.
Fall Elopement in Alberta
Fall in Alberta is nothing short of magical. The landscape is painted with stunning fall foliage and colours, offering a spectacular setting for your elopement photos. The cooler weather is perfect for comfortable hiking, allowing you to explore all that natural beauty in peace. Plus, popular locations are less busy than in the summer, giving you more privacy and space.
However, the weather can be windy, chilly and rainy, so it’s good to think of a plan B!
Winter Elopement in Alberta
Winter in Alberta, with all the snow-capped mountains and snowy landscapes, is gorgeous for a winter wonderland vibe elopement! It’s a great season for skiing and skating, adding fun and adventure to your elopement experience. The crowds are smaller, and travel can sometimes be more affordable during this season.
However, it’s important to prepare for the cold! Also, some trails and higher elevation roads are closed for the season.
Making Your Alberta Elopement Legal
First of all, to get married in Alberta, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license. To get your license, you’ll need to apply together at a registry agent office, and pay the required $40 government fee. Check out this official government article for the specifics on how to actually apply for your license!
Once you have your license, you’ll need to find someone who can legally officiate your ceremony, and have 2-witnesses to make it official! As your photographer, I’m happy to be one of them! You can also absolutely have your closest loved ones with you during your ceremony, with a couple of them serving as witnesses!
Fun Elopement Activities
Many eloping couples choose to include fun and meaningful activities and go adventuring to celebrate their love on their big day. Here are some ideas for your Alberta adventure elopement!
- Hike through the trails of one of the national parks
- Go off-roading
- Take a helicopter ride
- Go camping if the weather allows
- Enjoy a long weekend at an intimate lodge
- Go boating, kayaking or canoeing
Alberta Elopement Photographer & Packages
Hello! I’m Sam and I’m an Alberta Wedding Photographer! I especially love elopements so much, and even more so after eloping myself! I love going on adventures with my husband and our sweet pup, and I also LOVE capturing you as you embark on your adventure of a lifetime!
My approach to photography aligns with a documentary-style approach, chasing those in between moments, candid captures and stolen glances. If this sounds like something you’d love to have for your elopement day, send me a message here! You can also check out more about me here, and my portfolio here!
