If you are looking to elope in Canada, you’ve come to the right place! Canada offers couples a unique opportunity to exchange vows amidst some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you dream of saying “I do” against the backdrop of the stunning mountains, serene lakeshores, or lush forests, Canada provides a canvas for crafting a truly magical celebration of YOUR love. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential steps to plan your perfect elopement in Canada, with insights from a Canada Elopement Photographer who also eloped!
Find your Perfect Location
The first step to elope in Canada is to find your perfect location. Canada has vast and diverse landscapes that provide an endless amount of options for your destination elopement. From the iconic beauty of Banff National Park to the coastal charm of Vancouver Island, each region offers a unique setting. Consider your vision of what you want your elopement day to look like – whether it’s a snow-covered winter wonderland or a vibrant summer escape – and choose a location that resonates with your love story.
Keep in mind that some areas like National Parks may require a permit and have certain restrictions on weddings. As your elopement photographer, I will help you through the permit process!
Popular Canada Elopement Locations
10 Popular Elopement Locations in Canada
1. Banff National Park, Alberta: Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Banff National Park is a picture-perfect elopement destination. Surrounded by towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and dense pine forests, Banff offers a romantic and captivating setting for your vows.
2. Vancouver Island, British Columbia: Vancouver Island, with its diverse landscapes, offers a variety of elopement settings. From the lush forests and rugged beaches of Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, to the charming beaches of Parksville, couples can find a location that resonates with their vision of an intimate celebration.
3. Kootenays, British Columbia: The Kootenays region, known for its mountainous landscapes and pristine lakes, provides a serene escape for eloping couples. Whether you opt for a mountain vista or a lakeside ceremony, the Kootenays offer a tranquil and picturesque setting. Bonus tip, the Kootenays also offers more privacy and seclusion!
4. Jasper National Park, Alberta: Escape to the tranquility of Jasper National Park, known for its pristine alpine lakes and vast wilderness. Whether you choose a mountaintop ceremony or a lakeside exchange of vows, Jasper offers a serene and intimate elopement setting.
5. Moraine Lake, Alberta: Renowned for its striking blue waters and the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is a fairy-tale elopement location. Embrace the natural beauty and serenity of this iconic spot for an intimate ceremony.
6. Lake Louise, Alberta: Surrounded by glaciers and the majestic Victoria Glacier, Lake Louise is a timeless elopement location. The emerald waters, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, provide a stunning setting for an intimate ceremony.
Tip: Explore lesser-known gems for a more intimate experience and unique photo opportunities.
How to get Legally Married in Canada
To elope in Canada, it is actually a pretty easy and straight forward process to make it legal. Ensuring the legalities of your Canadian elopement are in order is crucial for a stress-free celebration. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the province or territory where you plan to exchange vows. From marriage licenses to officiants, understanding the legal process will help you navigate smoothly. Most provinces in Canada require a marriage licence, officiant, and two witnesses. As a Canada Elopement Photographer, I will provide you with information you need to get your marriage licence and make it all legal! See below links to the government websites for information on getting married in these provinces.
When to Elope in Canada
What is the best time to elope in Canada? Canada experiences distinct seasons, each offering its own charm. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant colors of fall, the pristine landscapes of winter, or the blossoming beauty of spring and summer, consider the seasonal elements (like weather!) in your elopement planning.
Spring (March to May):
- Pros: Blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and budding greenery create a romantic atmosphere.
- Considerations: Spring can still be cool, and there might be lingering snow in some regions. However, the fresh and vibrant scenery can make for stunning photographs.
Summer (June to August):
- Pros: Warm temperatures, longer days, and a wide variety of blooming landscapes provide excellent conditions for outdoor ceremonies.
- Considerations: Summer is a popular season for weddings, so popular locations may be busier. Be prepared for potentially warmer temperatures in certain regions.
Fall (September to November):
- Pros: The vibrant colors of changing leaves and cooler temperatures create a picturesque and cozy setting.
- Considerations: Weather can be unpredictable, and certain areas may experience an early onset of winter. However, the autumn foliage can add a breathtaking backdrop to your elopement.
Winter (December to February):
- Pros: A winter elopement in Canada offers a magical, snow-covered landscape. It’s ideal for couples who love the idea of a cozy, intimate ceremony.
- Considerations: Cold temperatures and potential snowfall can affect travel plans and accessibility to certain locations. However, winter elopements can be unique and intimate with fewer people around and peaceful landscapes.
Things to Do For Your Canada Elopement
Eloping is no longer about just having a quick ceremony and calling it a day! Now-a-days, eloping is an experience – making your wedding day intentional and meaningful to you and filling the day with everything that reflects you as a couple! The best part of planning your elopement is deciding what you want your Canada elopement to look like and what you want to do for your Canada Elopement. Here are some ideas to get you thinking about your wedding day!
- Hike a mountain for sunrise to have a mountain top ceremony, exchanging vows and then exploring the area before heading back to your Airbnb for an intimate brunch. Then you spend the rest of the day lakeside, paddleboarding and hanging out as newlyweds.
- Wake up with your partner in an A-frame Cabin, enjoy having a slow morning, cooking breakfast together and writing your vows. Exchange your vows privately outside of your cabin before having your ceremony with your closets friends and family on a beach in Tofino. Celebrate officially tying the knot with a private catered meal back at your cabin, with your closest crew.
Book Your Elopement Vendors
When you decide to elope in Canada, even though you aren’t having a big wedding, that doesn’t mean you can’t have some aspects of a traditional wedding. Booking vendors for your elopement can actually elevate your overall experience! It is important to book your vendors well in advance to ensure they have availability, especially during peak elopement season June – September! As your elopement photographer, I will provide you with vendor recommendations for the area you are eloping in, you don’t have to do the research yourself! Here are some vendors to think about booking.
- Officiant
- Florist
- Caterer
- Hair and Makeup Artist
- Videographer
Canada Elopement Packages
Hi, I’m Sam!! I’m an elopement and intimate wedding photographer based in British Columbia and travelling anywhere for elopements! You can learn more about me here! Of course I’m going to say this, but having an elopement photographer for your elopement is one of the most important vendors! When you work with me you get so much more than just a photographer, of course I will provide you with stunning images that you get to relive for years to come, but I will also help you plan your dream Canada elopement so that you can sit back and FULLY enjoy your elopement experience, stress-free!
All elopement packages include the following:
- 4 hours to multi-day coverage
- Personalized location idea list
- Vendor recommendations
- Unlimited planning help & support
- An exclusive Elopement & Intimate Wedding Planning Guide
- A custom timeline for your perfect elopement day
- High resolution images with printing rights
- Online gallery to view, download, print, and share your images
- Polaroid images for a touch of nostalgia
- Photographer travel fees included
Get in touch to book your Canada Elopement here!
