The good, traditional news is that she agreed to the marriage proposal; the bad, modern news is that the burden of planning is now shared between the sexes. Leaving the dress and flower arrangements to her remains acceptable, but you are expected to chime in on where to hold the celebration. Possibly the very good news, then, is that your own backyard is full of worthy locations: Vancouver is recognized as one of Canada’s most picturesque wedding destinations. Here, just a few of the finest options in and around the city.
Heritage Hall
This gorgeous heritage building at the corner of 15th Avenue and Main Street is a conveniently located and a classy choice for a metro wedding. The main floor ballroom boasts 18-foot high ceilings, offering lots of natural light to complement an elegant rich cream and taupe colour scheme. Stained glass chandeliers and your additional masterful decorating (you can always hire) will complete the setting. This is a reasonably-priced venue, as Heritage Hall is owned by the city of Vancouver and you are allowed to bring in a caterer of your choice. 3102 Main St., 604-879-4816
Alderwood Farm
Feel like an island escape but don’t want to burden your guests with high travel costs? Head to Bowen Island, just a 20-minute ferry from West Vancouver, and celebrate your romance on five acres of garden and farmland. The ceremony can take place in the covered Ceremonial Rock Garden set with lush plants, white pillar candles and paper lanterns, and the reception in a covered patio with beautiful flower arrangements and all the ambiance of the natural décor. On-site there is full catering emphasizing local and sustainable food; choose from a west coast buffet or intimate cocktail reception with champagne service and cake service. After the festivities, the bride and groom can stay at the honeymoon cottage and guests can choose from a selection of island accommodations, or hop the ferry back home. 1341 Adams Rd., Bowen Island 604-947-9434
Capilano Suspension Bridge [pictured]
This North Vancouver wedding venue was listed by the Travel Channel as one of the “Eight breathtaking beautiful places to tie the knot.” Fair enough: The stunning outdoor space offers spectacular views of the canyon and can accommodate for the actual wedding festivities 20-130 people in the Canyon House Banquet Rooms, The Bridge House Garden & Marquee Garden Tent or the Bridge House Restaurant right across the street. The photography options throughout the surrounding rainforest and amongst the tree-top elevated suspension bridges and platforms practically imagine themselves, and are every bit as astonishing in real life. 3725 Capilano Rd., 604-985-7474
Hart House Restaurant
The heritage house and picturesque lawn and gardens in Burnaby’s Deer Lake Park are another breathtaking spot. Setting aside, the cuisine and wine list here are equally impressive. This is a full-service venue with white table linens, china, cutlery and glassware, so you can easily transition from a lawn ceremony to a cottage reception or garden under marquee tent. This romantic spot has plenty of parking and can be easily accessed by guests coming from downtown or the suburbs. 6664 Deer Lake Ave., Burnaby 604-298-4278
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
No list would be complete without a nod to the classic romantic downtown hotel: the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Whether you require the Grand Pacific Ballroom or a smaller 12-room capacity space such as the Fairmont Gold 909 Suite, the property can easily accommodate. Built at a time when romance reigned, this venue is tried and true, known for never missing a detail. Work with the hotel to create a honeymoon package and simplify this aspect of your celebration, too. 900 West Georgia St., 604-684-3131
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Image courtesy of michellerlee.
