“Destination wedding” typically conjures up images of barefoot ceremonies on white sand beaches, but with a weak Canadian dollar many couples are looking for more domestic getaway options. Fortunately we have one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes in our backyard, with a spectacular venue to match.

Blush’s Venue of the Year for 2016, the historic Fairmont Banff Springs, is considered Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies.” First built in 1888, the luxury hotel has hosted British monarchs and Hollywood royalty alike, and features numerous rooms to suit weddings of any size and style.

The Ivor Petrak Room hosts intimate weddings for up to 60 guests and boasts a glittering crystal chandelier and stunning views of the Bow Valley. For an even smaller-scale soiree, seat up to 24 guests at a long table in the Angus room with its stained glass windows and historic décor.

For larger affairs, look no further than one of the Banff Springs’ elegant ballrooms and halls. The Alhambra Ballroom accommodates up to 220 guests and contains both huge windows for a sundrenched celebration and four Spanish Renaissance chandeliers for a romantic evening glow.

Fox Trot back to the roaring 20’s in the Cascade Ballroom; the hotel’s original ballroom has hosted stars such as Fred Astaire and Marilyn Monroe. The rich hardwood floors and colour scheme of powder blue, burgundy and gold provide a glamorous backdrop for a vintage wedding, and the adjacent Conservatory delivers panoramic views of the Bow Valley.

Mt. Stephen Hall truly reflects the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, and is the most popular space for couples to start their happily-ever-afters. The stone floors, high ceilings with oak beams, and cathedral windows with stained glass crests create a castle-like atmosphere for ceremonies and receptions for up to 115.

Take advantage of the fresh mountain air with a picture-perfect ceremony on the Outdoor Terrace, which combines natural beauty with the convenience of hotel amenities.

With a team of on-site wedding planners and dozens of recommendations for local vendors, the Fairmont Banff Springs offers the ease of an all-inclusive destination wedding and unparalleled service for a worry-free day. Tantalizing menu options, fine wines, and the world-class Willow Stream Spa ensure that you and your guests will be pampered. For those looking for fun and adventure, the hotel also features a 27-hole championship golf course, a bowling and entertainment centre, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

Unlike most tropical destinations, there’s no need to worry about passports, vaccines or foreign marriage licence requirements. The Calgary International Airport is only a scenic 90-minute drive away, so it’s easy for far-off guests to fly in for the big day. The nearby town of Banff also offers nearly endless options for accommodations, dining and shopping to suit all styles and budgets.

Best of all, there’s never a bad time to head to the Rockies; the area is beautiful and accessible all year round. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunny summer, rustic fall or winter wonderland wedding, the Fairmont Banff Springs will bring your vision to life, and the stunning mountain vistas will take your breath away.

Some of the most stunning mountain wedding venues in the world are located right in our backyard. If you’re envisioning breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains or pristine lakes for your wedding day, we’ve selected the top 6 venues across Alberta and British Columbia for you.

THE FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS – BANFF, AB

Set amid the backdrop of majestic mountains, Fairmont Banff Springs is Canada’s Castle in the Rockies. This Scottish baronial castle provides the perfect combination of wonder and romance. Choose from a wide variety of venues. Imagine the sweeping views of the Bow Valley behind you while exchanging nuptials on the Outdoor Terrace.

Banquet spaces can accommodate up to 220 guests.

Photo: Carey Nash Photography

 

SILVERTIP RESORT – CANMORE, AB

Offering breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery accompanied by an unmatched service team. Be it an elegant all out affair or a quiet time event, Silvertip’s superior facilities boast all of the amenities of a fairytale.

Banquet space can accommodate up to 250 guests.

 

HOTEL ELDORADO – OKANAGAN VALLEY, BC

The sunroof at Hotel Eldorado overlooking Okanagan Lake provides the most stunning setting to say “I do”. The second floor banquet space was expanded in 2011 to create the ultimate wedding reception venue!

Banquet spaces can accommodate up to 150 guests.

 

THE FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE– LAKE LOUISE, AB

Embraced by snow frosted mountains and a sparkling lake, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is naturally graced with all the elements for a magical celebration. The Chateau blends grandeur with a sense of ease, accented by fine cuisine and renowned service.

Banquet spaces can accommodate up to 350 guests.

 

EMERALD LAKE LODGE – FIELD, BC

With its century-old fireplaces and an oak bar salvaged from an 1890’s Yukon saloon, there is no shortage of history within these walls. There is also no shortage of comfort during your stay at Emerald Lake Lodge given the location’s award-winning dining opportunities and exceptional accommodations.

Banquet space can accommodate up to 88 guests.

 

CHERRY CREEK ESTATE – KIMBERLEY, BC

Surrounded by the Rocky and Purcell Mountains, the 320 acre private estate features a 13,000 sq ft. mansion and two reception barns. The property features a tranquil creek that winds through acres of natural forests. The estate was originally built in the mid 1990’s as a private residence and boasts traditional German craftsmanship. Combining a rustic barn look with the timeless charm of its European architecture.

Banquet spaces can accommodate up to 400 guests.

Photo: Justine Russo

Imagine walking through a room lined with trees, with the sun streaming down, and the scent of fresh garden blooms in the air. Imagine not worrying about the weather, because—at the first drop of rain—glass panels automatically close to save your big day.

The Enjoy Centre in St. Albert is the only venue of its kind in Canada, boasts Event Manager Laura Gadowsky. “We provide a true feeling of an outdoor wedding with none of the risk,” she says.

Their largest space, the Moonflower Room, is the crown jewel of event spaces. This 15,000 square foot room features 35 foot high glass ceilings, polished concrete floors, and moveable potted trees. The space can seat 500 guests for a ceremony and up to 600 for a reception. A mezzanine overlooks the room—every photographer’s dream for spectacular aerial shots—and can be used for smaller ceremonies, cocktail hours and even a kids’ area.

The high glass ceiling is truly the highlight; the panels are fitted with retractable shade cloth to adjust the amount of natural light. The uppermost panels open completely to allow air flow and are controlled by a weather station to automatically adjust to changing conditions.

If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, the Park Room seats up to 120 for a dinner reception. Three huge west-facing windows provide gorgeous views of the centre’s garden terraces and are equipped with shade cloth and blackout blinds. All the lights are on dimmer switches—from the funky yellow chandeliers to the backlights in the alcoves—to create the perfect ambience for your wedding. Gadowsky loves this room because it combines a fun modern aesthetic with the warmth of a traditional space.

While couples can choose from their selection of vendors, the Enjoy Centre offers the convenience of a one-stop shop: photos in and around the Centre plus the nearby Lois Hole Provincial Park just across the street, flowers from the Floral Studio at Hole’s, cake from Wild Earth Bakery, spa services from Wellness Within, and catering from the Glasshouse Bistro.

Chef Julia Kundera creates tailor-made menus with fresh, local ingredients—in late summer, with many of the vegetables come from Hole’s own garden. Couples can even rent the Glasshouse Bistro for sit down dinners up to 140 or stand-up receptions up to 250; enjoy cocktails with breathtaking views of Big Lake on the patio, dinner in the main restaurant, and dancing in the café area. The Bistro is also the perfect location for your rehearsal dinner or bridal shower.

Regardless which beautiful room you choose, the dedicated staff will do almost anything to fulfill your vision—from accommodating fire dancers to handling a horse in the parking lot. They also offer flexible set-up times and use of the Executive Boardroom for a bridal suite.

The Enjoy Centre is truly a breath of fresh air for those looking for an alternative to a cavernous banquet hall. Enjoy the light, enjoy the views, enjoy your day.

The newly renovated RiverCross Ranch, just 15 minutes west of Calgary, now accommodates small retreats, business meetings and events including small weddings. The rustic style, the scenery and the cozy ambiance is perfect for country-styled weddings. Alexandra with Boutiq Weddings, a Calgary based wedding designer and planner, worked with some of Calgary’s finest wedding vendors to create this elaborate setting. Her aim was to achieve elegance in the rustic setting enhancing it with unusual colors of coral, pink and peach floral combined with vintage accents.

Thank you Boutiq Weddings for bringing the RiverCross Ranch to our attention through this beautifully stylized shoot, this venue and it’s mountain backdrop makes for an excellent wedding venue for Calgary & Area couples.

Spring is finally here, which means the school year is winding down and wedding season is coming up. While many couples meet during their post secondary years, most don’t think of heading back to school to get married. Why not? Like every couple, each campus has its own unique history and traditions. Plus, with most universities combining awe-inspiring architecture and lush landscaping, capturing breathtaking photos is a snap. Many offer complete wedding packages with multiple ceremony and reception venues to choose from, onsite catering and event coordination, and even guest accommodations in student residence during the summer months. We’ve compiled a list of the six best universities across the country to get hitched in terms of visual appeal and ease of planning.

1. Royal Roads University, Victoria BC: 

Nothing says fairytale like a wedding in a castle. Start your happily-ever-after either in Hatley Castle or in one of the exquisite heritage gardens. Royal Roads can accommodate events for 10 to 200 guests.

2. University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC

Watersports, natural history, aboriginal artwork–whatever you’re into, UBC’s sprawling campus has unique venues for any wedding style. The Cecil Green Park House, John M.S Lecky Boathouse and the Museum of Anthropology are must-sees with spectacular ocean views.

3. University of Alberta, Edmonton AB:

For a classic and elegant affair, walk down the aisle at Convocation Hall then dance the night away at the Faculty Club. The TIMMS Centre for the Arts is the perfect ceremony and reception space for modern lovers with a flair for drama.

4. University of Manitoba, Winnipeg MB:

U of M has options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, and a variety of reception spaces. Host an intimate, historical wedding at Chancellor’s Hall. Marshall McLuhan Hall offers a modern approach with floor to ceiling windows and a large patio.

5. McMaster University, Hamilton ON:

An idyllic spot for nature lovers and history buffs alike, McMaster boasts neo-gothic architecture surrounded by protected natural areas. The Great Hall in the University Club transitions from a rustic cathedral to an elegant dining hall.

6. McGill University, Montreal QC:

A walk down the aisle at Birks Chapel will feel like stepping back through time. The Faculty Club–built as a private mansion in 1887–features everything from a grand ballroom to a billiards room to wow guests.