Eloping in Canada

the how-to for elopements and intimate weddings in the great white north

Maybe you’re dreaming about saying your vows on a snowy mountain top, or deep in the woods of a National Park. At a music festival, in a cabin or under a waterfall. Maybe it’s the idea of something super small and intimate that resonates with you or maybe you just want to escape expectations and the stress of planning.

It’s no secret why Canada is often voted among the top most beautiful countries in the world and if you’re considering an elopement or an intimate wedding here, the scenic destinations really are endless. Maybe you’ve found this page early on in your planning and you’re hunting for a location. Maybe you’re here looking for a photographer, or perhaps you’re just daydreaming of a mountain top ceremony and don’t know where to start. We’ve got west coast sandy beaches in Tofino, a world class ski destination in Whistler, emerald lakes and the Rocky Mountains, vast prairies, 4 dramatic and impressive seasons and arguably the worlds nicest (definitely most polite) people to help you along the way.

Read on to learn why Canada is one of the worlds best wedding destinations, and some of the top locations to consider!

Adventure Welcome

If you’re the adventure type, a wedding in British Columbia might be perfect for you. Adventure elopements are becoming more popular and for good reason! You can explore endless logging roads and hikes to come across lookouts, mountain tops, hidden waterfalls and private beaches if you’re willing to go off the beaten path. Many of these options are accessible by car and no further than 30 minutes outside of the city!

Because love is love

Yet another reason why Canada is amazing? On July 20, 2005, Canada became the first country outside Europe and the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide. I’m proud to say that British Columbia, my home province has had full marriage equality since 2003.

Now the technical part. The where?

elopements and intimate weddings in Canada - The Top locations

Barefoot on the beach in Tofino | The Wickaninnish Inn
Sand in your toes, fog, endless beaches, hot springs and trendy privately owned restaurants. Pizza on a blanket or a world class resort, you can do either. I highly recommend checking out the cute Air B&B’s and Vacation Rental by Owner options here as well.

Galiano Island | Bodega Ridge
Located on the west side of the Georgia Straight and accessible by car via BC Ferries. Galiano island has one of the best restaurants on the Gulf Islands, Pilgrimme. Plus whale watching, sandstone caves, and the cozy Bodega Ridge venue.

On Top of the Mountains | With the Help of Sky Helicopters
If it’s a mountain top you’re seeking but with the convenience of a quick trip, get in touch with Sky Helicopters out of Pitt Meadows. They have a one hour round trip package that drops you on the most impressive peak for your vows and portraits. They also have a meadow and a waterfall drop off location. There’s also Blackcomb Helicopters out of Whistler if you want something along the Sea to Sky.

Kicking Horse | Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Located in Golden, BC at the entrance to the Rocky Mountains this is another one for those lovers dreaming of tying the knot on a mountain peak. The resort’s Eagle’s Eye Restaurant is the highest in Canada at 7,700 feet with 360 degree Rocky Mountain views. Plus you’ve got five national parks.

The Canadian Rockies | Banff & Jasper
I fall in love with this area every time I make the drive from Vancouver to Calgary and that’s often without even venturing far off the highway. Last year I had the privilege of capturing Amy and Jacob’s elopement at Peyto Lake. Never have I seen such an incredible view. Learn more about the Peyto Lake lookout HERE.

Moraine Lake, Pyramid lake, Bow Lake , Emerald Lodge …okay you get the idea here. And that’s just part of it. My favourite view in Banff is a grassy field set in front of the towering mountains.

Manning Park | Lightning Lake or the Alpine Meadows
Feeling adventurous? Take the drive up to the alpine meadows in Manning Park. It’s like something from a movie. You could say your vows near the lodge then journey up here for photos, or spend the whole day above the park in this spot. Google Cascade Lookout, then just keep driving up!

Jones Lake
Do a quick google or Instagram location search for Jones Lake and you’ll immediately see why photographers love this spot. Just outside of Chilliwack and up a logging road (about another 30-40 mins) it takes some work to get here. But if you’re looking for a British Columbia ‘adventure location’ this might just be the perfect one.

Chilliwack Lake or Vedder River
Only an hour from my home is this incredibly versatile location. Right at the start of Chilliwack Lake road is a place called the ‘Vedder Fishing Spot’ which is perfect for somewhere with river and mountains that’s not too far from the city. See Samantha and Sam’s elopement at this location by clicking HERE. Or, continue up the road and you’ll find scenic stops everywhere along the way. The drive ends at Chilliwack Lake if you want to follow it to the end. Another epic place to say your vows. Followed by a dip maybe?

On a bluff in the Okanagan | Hotel Eldorado
Go wine tasting during the day, take a dip in the lake then say your vows on one of the many viewpoints overlooking the Okanagan and the vineyards. Need a spot to unwind or host a reception? Check out the Hotel Eldorado.

Now, About Wedding Photography!

If you’ve stumbled on this page in the search for a photographer to capture your destination elopement I would love to opportunity to chat!

A little about me… My name is Angela Ruscheinski, hi! I live in Langley (just outside of Vancouver) British Columbia and I’m passionate about shooting heartfelt, untraditional weddings in organic, natural settings.

I’m a lover of golden light, yoga, spicy food and zombie movies. I’m fascinated by the stars and the universe.I like to set goals, eat cheese, drink beer and stand on my head. I'm an only child, a mom and a wife. I never remember an umbrella and sometimes I order a veggie burger, add bacon. 


Read my philosophy on shooting HERE

View my wedding portfolio by clicking HERE

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Angela Ruscheinski