British Columbia - Young Hip & Married

Many couples travel from distant cities, provinces and even far away countries to tie the knot with us here in Vancouver. Eloping under the trees of Stanley Park, on the sandy shores of English Bay or on a snow-capped mountain in Whistler calls couples from all over the globe. We’re so proud to be an elopement destination hot spot and to call Vancouver home.

If you’ve decided on Vancouver for your elopement – congratulations! You’ve picked not only one of the most beautiful cities in the world but also one with so much to do.

So once your vows are said and you’re officially newlyweds, here’s everything you need to have an amazing Vancouver getaway. Welcome to our guide to Vancouver for eloping couples!

Vancouver newlywed couple smiling at each other as they walk down the Seawall — *Above & feature photo by Erica Miller Photography*

First things first: How to elope in Vancouver

Before you plan the rest of your vacation in Vancouver, let’s not forget why you’re really here: to get married!

Get started by booking your Vancouver elopement ceremony. Our Intimate Elopement & Photography package is perfect for out of town-ers because it includes your wedding officiant and wedding photographer. All you have to do is show up!

Get to know our Vancouver officiants and find out how to get your BC marriage licence so your elopement is legal. You’ll also need to decide where in Vancouver you want to elope. We’ve got lots of suggestions for places in the city, off the beaten path and even some that are perfect for a rainy day!

Need help with any of your elopement plans? Get in touch! We’ve helped thousands of couples tie the knot and would love to guide you through your special day too.

Vancouver restaurant recommendations

After tying the knot, you’ll likely want to celebrate with an awesome meal in a romantic atmosphere. Check out some of our favourite Vancouver eateries below! We’ve even included the neighbourhood or popular elopement spot nearby to these restaurants and noted which ones are best for our friends with dietary restrictions.

The Teahouse in Stanley Park (Stanley Park)
Shaughnessy Restaurant (Van Dusen Botanical Gardens)
Seasons in the Park (Bloedel Conservatory or Queen Elizabeth Park)
Tap & Barrell (Granville Island)
The Beach House (Dundarve Park, West Vancouver)
Brix & Mortar (Yaletown)
Provence Marinaside (Yaletown)
Cioppino’s (Yaletown)
Water St. Cafe (Gastown)
Miku (Gastown)
Black & Blue (Downtown)
Maenam (Kitsilano)
AnnaLena (Kitsilano)
Folke (Kitsilano, vegan)
Vij’s (Fairview)
Nuba (multiple locations; vegetarian options)
Heirloom Vegetarian (South Granville; vegetarian)
The Acorn (Main St; vegetarian)

For our gluten-free newlyweds, indulge in some GF sweetness at Cartems Donuterie (multiple locations), Aphrodite’s Organic Café & Pie Shop (Kitsilano), and Lemonade Gluten Free Bakery (Cambie). Many of the vegetarian restaurants above also offer GF options.

Bride and groom holding hands and smiling as they walk the Vancouver Seawall — *Photo by Emily Nicole Photos*

Your guide to Vancouver must-see areas & attractions

It’s not a real visit to Vancouver unless you’ve ticked some of these must-sees off of your Vancouver bucket list. Enjoy exploring these gorgeous spots in Canada’s playground.

Granville Island
Gastown
Stanley Park
The Seawall
Capilano Suspension Bridge
Vancouver Aquarium
Beaches: English Bay, Kitsilano Beach, Jericho Beach, etc.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Canada Place (don’t miss the Olympic torches!)
Shopping on Granville and Robson streets
Lynn Valley
Yaletown
Commercial Drive

If you’re in town during hockey season, it’s always fun to see a Canucks game at Rogers Arena. Or if the Canucks aren’t playing, check out one of our other local teams or see if a concert is in town!

Newlywed couple kissing in Vancouver's Stanley Park after their Young Hip & Married elopement, guide to Vancouver — *Photo by Erica Miller Photography*

Events in Vancouver by season

Depending on when you plan to elope in Vancouver, check out what’s happening in the city while you’re here.

Winter events in Vancouver (December – February)

If you’re in Vancouver over the winter holidays there are plenty of things to see and do like the Vancouver Christmas Market, Festival of Lights, Canyon Lights and much more.

In January, get ready to eat with Dine Out Vancouver and the Hot Chocolate Festival. Into February, we have the International Wine Festival, the PuSH International Performing Arts Festival and annual Lunar New Year celebrations. You could even elope on Valentine’s Day in Vancouver!

Spring events in Vancouver (March – May)

March is the perfect time for newlyweds looking to laugh as Vancouver hosts the JFL NorthWest Comedy Fest.

In April, you’ll enjoy the stunning pink streets with our annual Cherry Blossom Festival. And in May, it’s time for the arts with the Vancouver Opera Festival. If you’ve brought the kiddos along, check out the International Children’s Fest in May as well.

Summer events in Vancouver (June – August)

Summer is a busy time in Vancouver with lots going on that our newly eloped couples can take part in. In June we celebrate the International Jazz Festival, Vancouver Craft Beer Week, Car Free Day and Italian Day.

In July, we light up the sky with the Celebration of Light and get artsy with Bard on the Beach, Theatre Under the Stars, open air movies in Stanley Park and the Van Folk Music Fest. Lastly, we finish off summer with awesome events like Pride, the PNE, and the last few weeks of the night markets in August.

Fall events in Vancouver (September – November)

Fall is the perfect time to come to Vancouver for art lovers. In September, you can enjoy the Vancouver International Film Festival and the Skookum Music Festival.

In October there’s the Van Fringe Fest and Van Writers Fest. And in November, you can enjoy the Eastside Culture Crawl and Fan Expo.

Bride and groom smiling to each other on the balcony of the Opus Hotel in Vancouver, Canada; your guide to Vancouver — *Photo by Emily Nicole Photos*

Day trips from Vancouver

If you have a bit more time in Vancouver, why not take a day trip and check out more of the Pacific Northwest? Here are some of our favourite places that you can head to for the day or a few days!

North Shore Mountains like Grouse, Seymour and Cypress
Whistler
Vancouver Island with cities such as Tofino, Victoria andNanaimo
Sunshine Coast
Deep Cove
Okanagan
Harrison Hot Springs
Steveston
Bowen Island
Golden Ears
Squamish
Salt Spring Island
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Gulf Islands
Seattle and surrounding islands

Now that you’ve got your guide to Vancouver, don’t forget to finalize your Vancouver elopement plans. Check out our Vancouver elopement packages and meet our team, then get in touch to book your elopement!

One of our favourite photographers, Emily Nicole Photos, is sharing some of her top Vancouver elopement locations with us. When you’re planning an intimate wedding, finding a beautiful background is half the fun.

Check out some of Emily’s top spots (and beautiful shots) below. And if you’re feeling inspired, head over to our packages page to book your elopement now!

Stanley Park Rose Garden

“The Stanley Park Rose Garden, first established in 1920 by the Kiwanis Club, boasts over 3,500 rose bushes, as well as a stylish west coast-inspired arbour supporting a combination of climbing roses and clematis.” – City of Vancouver

Prospect Point

“Vancouver’s Original Viewpoint. For over 100 years, Prospect Point has been attracting people with its unrivaled views and rich history.” – Capilano Group

Downtown (Robson Square)

“Robson Square is a landmark civic centre and public plaza, located in Downtown Vancouver. It also hosts the Robson Square Ice Rink in the cooler months.” – Robson Square

Downtown (Portal Park)

“A cool, shaded oasis in the busy downtown, Portal Park features an elegant pavilion, lacy Japanese maples, and glimpses of Coal Harbour.” – City of Vancouver

Whytecliff Park

“Whytecliff park opened in 1909 and is located near West Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay Neighbourhood. Home to more than 200 marine animal species, Whytecliff Park is one of the first Marine Protected Areas in Canada where you’re bound to catch a glimpse of Sea lions sunbathing on the beach during summer.” – Whytecliff Park

Ferguson Point & Third Beach

“Ferguson Point is an elevated point on the west side of Stanley Park. It offers magnificent views west towards the ocean!” – Stanley Park Van

“Located at Ferguson Point in Stanley Park, Third Beach is a naturally sandy beach surrounded by trees that shield dippers and tanners from urban noise.” – City of Vancouver

Vanier Park

“Poised at the edge of English Bay, Vanier Park boasts wonderful views of downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park. Tranquil ponds, open fields, and a wide pathway complement the outstanding waterfront experience.” – City of Vancouver

Carisbrooke Park

“Carisbrooke park is a beautiful oasis in upper Lonsdale. Built in 1912-1923 by the BC Electric Street Railway Company, the park boats a beautiful greenscape and path with a fenced playground.” – Active Mama

The Sylvia Hotel

“The Sylvia Hotel is a designated heritage building, ideally located on English Bay, beside Stanley Park and just 5 minutes from downtown Vancouver. Built in 1912, the Sylvia Hotel is a city landmark and one of Vancouver’s greatest treasures. The Sylvia Hotel is definitely one of Vancouver’s best kept secrets. The old fashioned character and friendly service gives travelers a home away from home.” – The Sylvia Hotel

Helicopter – Widgeon Mountain Range

“Saying “I do” on the top of a mountain – it doesn’t get much more romantic than that! So it’s no wonder that our Helicopter Elopement & Photography Package is one of our most popular. Not everyone can say they got married on a snowcapped mountaintop with a beautiful landscape behind them. It truly is a once in a lifetime experience!” – Helicopter Elopement FAQs

Lighthouse Park

“Lighthouse Park located in West Vancouver British Columbia is one of the most amazing scenic parks you will see on the West Coast. Walk through acres of first-growth douglas firs and stand next to trees that are considered to be giants.” – Lighthouse Park

Golden Ears Park

“As one of the largest parks in the province, Golden Ears Provincial Park is prized for its recreational opportunities. The extensive system of trails within the park provides an excellent opportunity for hiking and horseback riding. Alouette Lake is a popular spot for swimming, windsurfing, water-skiing, canoeing, boating and fishing. The park also has three large campgrounds. Vegetation is typical of the coastal western Hemlock forest of B.C. and the mountainous backcountry is extremely rugged.” – BC Parks

OPUS Hotel

“OPUS Hotel offers the ultimate experience where design meets impeccable service. Boutique Hotel means amazing service, high-style suites and iconic experiences. The discerning traveler will fall in love with fabrics and bright, vibrant colours and expression of personality throughout.” – Opus Hotel

Granville Island

“The Island is a jewel in the Canadian government’s development crown but it’s just as treasured by locals and tourists for its unique offerings. Granville Island, itself a piece of art and a destination for more than 10 million people who visit the Island annually, provides a rare example of government as an urban redevelopment standard-setter, creative marketer, and manager in one complete package.” – Granville Island

Feeling inspired?
Get in touch to book your Vancouver elopement now!

And a huge thanks to Emily for sharing her beautiful photos and top elopement spots with us. For more of Emily’s work, check out her website here, and follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

To get married, all you need is yourself, a willing partner, someone who can marry you (like us!), witnesses and a BC marriage licence. That’s it!

Everything else, like the four-tier cake or cathedral length veil, is totally optional. Most couples getting married have no trouble finding flowers, favours and friends to stand by their side. But when it comes to licences and certificates, they’re stumped. How does that whole legal part of the marriage actually work? How do they get their BC marriage licence.

Don’t worry. We’ve got your back.

Here’s everything you need to make sure you’re actually getting legally married in British Columbia:

Marriage Licence VS Certificate?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly pause to explain the difference between the marriage licence and the marriage certificate.

The marriage licence is the piece of paper you bring to your ceremony and sign with your officiant and witnesses. You need this to legally get married. The marriage certificate is the piece of paper you receive after your ceremony that says you are legally wed.

Got it? Great, let’s move on.

How to Get Married in British Columbia: Obtaining Your BC Marriage Licence

You must obtain your BC marriage licence; your officiant can’t get this for you. Neither can your mom, your wedding planner of your best friend. This one is on you.

You must obtain your marriage licence in the province in which you are getting married. Not the province where you live (if it’s different from where you’re getting married). Not your favourite province. Not the province where marriage licences are the cheapest. If you live in Saskatchewan, vacation in PEI and are getting married in BC, you have to obtain your licence in BC.

Your BC marriage licence is valid for 90 days. Licences must be applied for in person by at least one member of the couple who has primary ID for both members of the couple. The marriage licence costs $100.

To find a BC marriage licence issuer, click here.

For more info on the marriage licence in BC, click here.

The Ceremony

You MUST bring your marriage licence to your wedding ceremony. Pro tip: keep your wedding rings with your marriage licence so you don’t forget it! Leading up to your wedding, your officiant may ask you for some information they’ll need to complete your marriage licence. Read over your licence and ensure you have all of the info you need – for example, do you know where your parents were born? Cause the licence is going to ask you.

After the Ceremony

Phew! You did it. You got married. Congrats! Here’s what happens with your BC marriage licence once it has been signed by you, your officiant and your witnesses on the big day.

Your officiant will send your signed marriage licence and all other paperwork to the provincial body where marriages need to be registered. You don’t need to worry about registering your marriage – we’ll do that for you!

Receiving Your Marriage Certificate

Lucky BC couples receive their marriage certificates free of charge and automatically. There is no need to order a marriage certificate; one will be mailed to the address on your marriage licence. The certificate is put into the mail approximately three weeks after your wedding ceremony and will arrive in your mailbox shortly thereafter; please allow for longer mail delivery time if you’re outside the province.

Should you need an additional copy of your marriage certificate, you can apply online, in person, by mail or by phone. Additional copies are available for $27. For more info on ordering additional copies of your BC marriage certificate, click here.

Changing Your Last Name

If you’re interested in changing your last name following your wedding, check out this site for some more information about how the process works in British Columbia and this blog post that outlines everything you need to know about changing your name in BC!

Get all of the paperwork you need to change your last name for just $39!

For just $39 (as of Jun 2023, check the website for the most up to date prices), you’ll be able to choose from a list of over 750 government agencies and companies, received personalized forms and letters, and have everything you need to easily and quickly change your name.

Check out Easy Name Change to get started!

Any Other Questions?

If you have any other questions about your specific circumstances or the BC marriage licence and certificate process, please contact the following:

British Columbia: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/marriages

If you are an international citizen, please contact your consulate for specific information. If you are getting married in another province/country, please contact the marriage licensing body in that area.

written by Riana Ang-Canning

See you at the ceremony (with your BC marriage licence in hand)!

PS: Getting married in Alberta or Ontario? Check out our marriage licence/certificate guides for those provinces.

Check out all of our marriage licence and certificate posts:

Saying “I do” in the mountains – it doesn’t get much more romantic than that! So it’s no wonder that our Helicopter Elopement & Photography Package is one of our most popular. Not everyone can say they got married in the mountains with a beautiful landscape all around them. It truly is a once in a lifetime experience!

If you’re thinking about a helicopter elopement, check out our FAQs below as well as some photos from past couples who have said their vows up near the clouds.

For the most up to date pricing and inclusions of our helicopter elopement packages, please visit our Fly from Whistler or Fly from Pitt Meadows pages. Information in this blog post is subject to change.

What is included in Young Hip & Married’s helicopter elopement packages?

The helicopter ride to and from a scenic and private weather-dependant location, a 5-10 minute ceremony with your officiant (and legal registration of your marriage), and professional photography throughout your experience to capture the moments before, during and after your elopement with 75 fully-retouched high-resolution images displayed in an online gallery! The entire experience will last apx 90 mins: 30 minutes of flight time and 60 minutes at the landing location.

The package price includes you two, our officiant and our photographer. If you’re interested in bringing guests, we can provide you with a quote! Please see our Packages page or request a quote for current pricing and guest restrictions.

Is there a weight restriction for a helicopter elopement?

The max weight per seat is 300lbs, fully dressed. We will always ask for your weight with clothes on, because really, flying naked is just awkward for our team! If you plan to wear boots, a big coat or a heavy wedding outfit, please consider this when reporting your weight.

How serious is the weight restriction?

Pretty serious. Pilots use the weight information to ensure the helicopter is properly balanced and we can fly safely. So it’s very important that you report your fully clothed weight accurately. We will be collecting your weight information ahead of time, and SKY Helicopters will conduct a pre-flight weigh in on the day of your elopement for everyone’s safety.

If you or your partner’s weight is 10 pounds more than previously stated, there may be an additional charge of $400+GST. If the weight capacity of the helicopter is exceeded at weigh in, it could result in not flying, or additional charges for an extra helicopter to accommodate.

Can I fly if I’m pregnant?

Yes, unless your doctor has advised against it. If you are nearing your due date or have other health risks, we ask that you speak with your doctor/healthcare provider.

Who will be my witnesses at my helicopter elopement?

The pilot and the photographer will sign as witnesses or, if you bring guests, your guests may be your witnesses.

Can I bring my own witnesses?

You sure can! You have the option to invite guests along on your helicopter elopement and we would be happy to provide a quote if requested. Guests will also need to meet the weight restriction, report their weight ahead of time and be subject to additional fees as per the weight rules above.

Can my dog join our helicopter elopement?

Sadly, animals are not permitted to attend. Don’t worry, you can show your furry friends the pictures afterwards so they feel like they were there.

Are my kids able to join us?

YES! Children as young as two years old can join. However, remember that kids move quick and love to explore; the backcountry might not be the safest place for a toddler. But you can have a friend watch your little ones for you at the helicopter hangar and have pictures taken with them afterwards. Older kids love the experience!

How long is the helicopter elopement packages experience?

The total experience is apx 90 minutes. It’s a 15 minute flight to the landing location, we spend one hour there, and then it’s a 15 minute flight back down. We ask that you arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure an on-time departure.

Please visit our specific helicopter pages (flying from Whistler or Pitt Meadows) for exact flight times.

Can I add additional time to the helicopter trip?

Of course! Let us know what you are thinking and we can provide a quote for you.

Do you have a videographer?

We do! Learn more about adding videography to your elopement here.

Who are your photographers and can I see their work?

We have a few different photographers we work with whose work you can see throughout this post. Meet our elopement photographer team to learn more about them and see more of their beautiful images.

Can I pick the landing location for our helicopter elopement?

We have a variety of landing spots in the mountains around Widgeon Lake, including mountain peaks, alpine lakeshores and glacier-fed stream beds. The pilot selects the landing spot the day of the flight based on the weather conditions.

What if the weather isn’t great on our day?

If the weather isn’t looking great, we get in contact with the pilot in the morning and discuss our options. Our pilots are experts and can often determine if it will work or not for your flight time. It might be that the pilot will tell us that they can’t do a peak landing, but we can do the secret lake landing or the creek bed landing (pictured above). So don’t let a little rain scare you!

If the pilot tells us it’s a total no-fly day, you have two options:

1) You can rebook your helicopter elopement for a different day and time, although we can’t guarantee the same officiant and photographer.

2) If you prefer to keep your original date and time, your officiant and photographer will move your elopement to our nearby “Plan B” location: picturesque Pitt Lake, surrounded by the mountains. The cost of the helicopter portion will be refunded to you.

What months are the helicopter elopement packages available?

We fly all year!

What is appropriate to wear for a helicopter elopement?

It’s good to remember that even in the summer months, there may be snow, so we don’t suggest heels. Closed-toe shoes with good tread would be best. Generally, jackets are not required in the summer. In the winter, it’s cold! Definitely boots and jackets! We have had couples wear their jackets and then remove them for pictures.

Can I get dressed at the hangar?

Yes, there is a small space to get dressed at the hangar.

How early do I need to book my helicopter elopement?

We suggest booking as soon as possible, up to a year in advance, but will always do our best to accommodate bookings when they come in. By booking early, you can guarantee your date and time. If you are flexible with your date and time, we will try our best to make something work if you are booking last minute.

written by Riana Ang-Canning

Ready to take your love to new heights and book a helicopter elopement?
Just fill out our contact form here and we’ll be in touch soon with more information and officiant availability!

This past spring we noticed a trend: lots of couples were flocking to Stanley Park for intimate elopements and small weddings. Even with our notorious Vancouver rain, spouses-to-be couldn’t stay away from the great outdoors, romantic setting and natural beauty of the trees, beaches and landscapes of Stanley Park.

Here are a few of our favourite moments from a series of spring weddings in Stanley Park!

Sarah & Shane

Sarah and Shane got hitched in Stanley Park with Shawn Miller on a wet Vancouver day. They also brought their dog and baby to be along for the ride. That’s right – Sarah managed to look this stunning in the rain and with pregnancy back pain! Photos by Erica Miller Photography.

Jenna & Roy

It was another rainy day in Stanley Park for Jenna & Roy but that didn’t keep the smiles off their faces. They headed down to 3rd Beach and even brought some team spirit with them on Roy’s hat! Photos by Erica Miller Photography.

Rachel & David

Rachel & David also chose 3rd Beach for their Stanley Park elopement. And instead of a traditional white dress, Rachel opted for a gorgeous blue lace sheath that we are in love with. Photos by Erica Miller Photography.

Marla & Todd

Marla & Todd journeyed all the way from Missouri to get married in our iconic Vancouver rain. And they were our third couple to get married on 3rd Beach! Photos by Erica Miller Photography.

Pamela & Richard

For Pamela & Richard it was a secret elopement in Stanley Park that they got to surprise their friends and family with. Check out Richard’s cute sign with the cityscape in the background. Photos by Erica Miller Photography.

Andres & Lucy

The rain clouds finally cleared for Andres & Lucy’s special day. They brought lots of smiles, bright flowers and adorable dance moves to their Stanley Park elopement. Photos by Emily Nicole Photos.

Steve & Vanessa

We couldn’t escape the rain for long! It was a wet day for Steve, Vanessa and Officiant Jane but that didn’t dampen their smiles. And we’re loving Vanessa’s casual-cool bridal style. Photos by Emily Nicole Photos.

written by Riana Ang-Canning

How stunning are these Stanley Park elopements?
Would you get married in Stanley Park?

A few weeks ago we brought you “Where to Elope in Vancouver: Parks Edition.” So we thought we’d follow up with a few more top elopement spots in Vancouver in case parks aren’t really your thing.

Choosing a place to elope really depends on what you are into and what type of budget you have. From taking a helicopter up a snowy mountain to a back alley in Gastown, the possibilities are endless. We have come up with a list of our favorite elopement locations (that aren’t parks) and broken down some of the details you’ll need to know like cost, privacy, rain coverage and distance from downtown Vancouver. Plus, we included some photos so you could really get a feel for the spot.

Check out 7 of the best places to elope in Vancouver. We hope this list helps you plan your intimate wedding ceremony!

NOTE: For the most up to date information on pricing, permits and more, please visit the respective venues’ websites.

Vancouver Aquarium

As the Vancouver Aquarium says, let them be your “something blue” on your wedding day! The Vancouver Aquarium is one of Vancouver’s most unique wedding spots and can accommodate small elopements and giant celebrations up to 2000 people.
Cost: You’ll have to inquire directly with the aquarium as prices vary depending on the event space you’re interested in.
Privacy: Whatever event space you choose will be yours and closed off to the rest of the public. If you want more privacy, you may need to pay more to rent out a larger space.
Rain Coverage: Totally covered! Most of the event spaces are indoors.
Distance from Downtown: 12 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSbnJMtgzPV/?tagged=aquariumwedding

Blood Alley

Sure, Blood Alley doesn’t sound very romantic but it is the perfect place to elope if you’re looking for a cool urban area in Gastown. Fun fact: Blood Alley got its name thanks to the butchers who used to work there and the public executions that used to take place in Blood Alley Square. We promise it’s a cool area, despite its gory past.
Privacy: Because you aren’t getting a permit, the space is still public and can be very busy on weekends or during dinner hour.
Rain Coverage: Next to none – you are outdoors!
Distance from Downtown: 5 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTcJ7ywh6zW/?taken-at=258470821

Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery hosts some of the most beautiful wedding receptions and ceremonies in the heart of the city. While they are used to hosting big crowds, who is to say you can’t rent out the space for a small elopement? Perfect if you love the artistic look and don’t want to chance it with the rain.
Cost: Different event spaces have different costs starting from $1425. Visit this webpage for more information on costs and rental spaces.
Privacy: The area you rent will be completely private and closed off to the public.
Rain Coverage: Totally covered! You’re indoors!
Distance from Downtown: You are downtown!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BN7M-EmDv8B/?tagged=vancouverartgallerywedding

Robson Square

Robson Square is one of the best areas in the cities for eloping, but maybe we’re biased because we host Love In The Square there. But it’s a great outdoor spot in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Privacy: Privacy will be pretty scarce here as Robson Square is a popular tourist spot and often hosts events.
Rain Coverage: Some – the steps are uncovered but parts of the square where the ice rink is located are covered.
Distance from Downtown: You are downtown!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTzAshilYO-/?tagged=loveinthesquare

Yaletown Seawall

The Seawall is an iconic part of Vancouver living and would make a beautiful spot for couples to elope. We especially love the Yaletown side and gorgeous water views.
Privacy: Don’t expect much! The Seawall is super popular, especially in good weather. Prepare for runners, roller bladers and dogs to be passing by during your ceremony.
Rain Coverage: Nope! The Seawall is outdoors.
Distance from Downtown: 5 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQzZvhzB9ry/?tagged=yaletownseawall

Sky Helicopters

Want to take your love to new heights and elope on a mountain top? Sounds dreamy, doesn’t it? Check out our helicopter elopement package and see how we can make it happen. We promise the photos will take your breath away.
Cost: Includes the helicopter ride, photography and your YH&M officiant – click here for current pricing!
Privacy: About as private as it gets! It will just be you two and Mother Nature!
Rain Coverage: Very limited – you’re on a mountaintop, afterall! If the weather makes flying unsafe your pilot and officiant will work together to find a new spot a bit closer to the ground. One time we even landed in a cranberry field!
Distance from Downtown: 45 minute drive to the helicopter base in Pitt Meadows

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRwRlcNh1cb/?taken-by=skyhelicopters

Grouse Mountain

If you like the idea of getting married on a mountain but don’t want to take a helicopter flight, why not elope on Vancouver’s Grouse Mountain. If you can’t get enough of skiing or snowboarding, a mountain wedding might be perfect for you two.
Cost: Grouse Mountain offers a variety of indoor and outdoor venues to decide from. View the choices here and inquire about rental costs.
Privacy: The venue you rent out will be private for your ceremony
Rain Coverage: If you’re worried about coverage, opt for one of the indoor venues
Distance from Downtown: 30 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BAvH6RfSjKQ/?tagged=grousewedding

written by Riana Ang-Canning

Which of these elopement spots caught your eye? Or are we missing an awesome place to elope from our list?

Feature image by Jelger & Tanja Photographers

We get asked this question all of the time: Where is a good place to elope in Vancouver? Well, that’s kind of like asking where is a good place to eat in Vancouver. Vancouver offers some of the most diverse cuisine in the world and the same is true when it come to unique places to tie the knot.

Vancouver is known for its mountains, ocean and, of course, beautiful parks! So if you want to take your Vancouver elopement outdoors, why not pick one of our stunning parks or beaches? You’ll get a stunning natural backdrop for your I do’s!

But there are two things you’ll have to watch out for: the weather and the crowds. An outdoor elopement can turn sour if you’re unprepared. So heed our advice: head to the parks in an off-peak time (think a weekday morning or very early on the weekend) and bring a stylish umbrella just in case!

NOTE: For the most up to date information, including information about permits and pricing, please visit the official parks’ websites directly.

The Stanley Park Hollow Tree

The Stanley Park Hollow Tree is a 700 to 800 year old Western Red Cedar tree stump situated in Vancouver’s Stanley Park. It’s set in the woods and would make a dreamy elopement backdrop.
Privacy: While the tree stump is in the middle of the woods, it’s also a well known photo opp for tourists in the area. Prepare for some crowds if you’re eloping on a sunny weekend.
Distance from Downtown: 15 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BRoCu6ngrUz/?taken-at=5149524

Baden Powell Trail

Head to North Vancouver and pick a spot along the Baden Powell Trail. This 48 km trail stretches from Horseshoe Bay all the way to Deep Cove so you’ll have lots of spots to choose from. But be careful, you may have to do a bit of hiking to find the perfect spot.
Privacy: If you’re committed to finding a quiet spot along the trail, you’ll probably be able to get some privacy.
Distance from Downtown: 32 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BScN54phl26/?taken-at=238382650

Engagement Sculpture at Sunset Beach

Does it get more on the nose than this? Engagement, a sculpture by Dennis Oppenheim, is two giant engagement rings that were installed in Vancouver in 2005. Since then, similar sculptures have popped up all over the world. Now that would be a cool anniversary trip to take a picture at the other engagement sculptures!
Privacy: If you purchase a permit, the space will be yours. If you don’t, Sunset Beach can definitely be a popular place and the Engagement sculpture is a famous photo opp.
Distance from Downtown: 8 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSbxErugB50/?taken-at=691

Ferguson Point in Stanley Park

This is one of the most picturesque spots in Stanley Park to tie the knot. And once you’ve said your I do’s, you can head over to the Teahouse for a lovely reception meal!
Privacy: If you get a permit, the space will be all yours but if not, you might be competing with other couples and tourists for the beautiful spot.
Distance from Downtown: 20 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BIS6BpXgZAC/?taken-at=454724

Portal Park

If you’re looking for a gorgeous landscaped park, a spectacular garden and a giant pavilion that could serve as your ceremony backdrop, you’ll find all of that at Portal Park.
Privacy: Unfortunately, it’s a public park near downtown so can get pretty crowded.
Distance from Downtown: 5 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BEWx5IRJrCF/?taken-at=4028824

Spanish Banks

Spanish Banks is one of the most sought after beaches in Vancouver’s West End. You’ll get sand, water and a gorgeous view of the Vancouver skyline. What’s not to love?
Privacy: Don’t expect much! Spanish Banks and the area by English Bay are super popular areas for locals and tourists alike.
Distance from Downtown: 20 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSex1L6gM8e/?taken-at=1029084271

Trout Lake Park

At Trout Lake Park you can get both the greenery and the water all in one place. You get a lake, a park and a little beach area!
Privacy: It’s a public park that is popular with nearby families. Expect lots of children and dogs to be in the area.
Distance from Downtown: 15 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSd_JgHAkxK/?taken-at=221268403

QE Park

Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver so offers gorgeous views of the park, city and North Shore mountains. It’s a beautiful green space and you’ll be able to find picturesque cherry blossoms in the spring!
Privacy: As you can imagine, the park is very popular with locals and tourists. Plus, if someone does have an event permit, your spot might be taken. That being said, it’s a large park so you should be able to carve out some space for you to elope.
Distance from Downtown: 15 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSjom2eASw2/?taken-at=48169

Whytecliff Park

If you’re looking for a moody vibe and water background for your elopement, you’ll get all of that and more at Whytecliff Park. This spot in West Vancouver is great for a less busy elopement spot on the water.
Privacy: While the park is public and often used for swimming and BBQs, you should be able to find a secluded spot for your ceremony.
Distance from Downtown: 35 minute drive

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSiTXVEDAdT/?taken-at=884757545

written by Riana Ang-Canning

Where would you want to elope in Vancouver’s great parks and beaches?