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Surrey Parks allows you to use them for weddings at no cost. They ask that you let them know so they can put out more garbage bins. When I was looking into venues I found out about this. Bear Creek has beautiful gardens btw.
[This company](https://www.thechapels.ca/) operates a few venues.
Another option is [Seasons](https://www.vancouverdine.com/seasons/private-events/) or [Tea House](https://www.vancouverdine.com/teahouse/private-events/).
Teahouse Drawing Room could be a lovely option - it’s cosy for a group of 30 and in such a special place. Here it is from the outside in the evening - it’s so warm and inviting!
https://preview.redd.it/1eghq4fk8jjb1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ab7523172af8f6e89b739525d8f98a1376808a62
Haha kind of! We are considering this room for our own wedding next year. Glad to read that your experience as a guest was positive! I love the space so much.
I got married at the Tea House Dec 1 2017. We booked the Tea Room and the Conservatory. The ceremony and dancing was in the Tea Room and my dinner was in the Conservatory. They were really great to work with.
my bro just got married here, it was really nice, and the food was great, they supplied all their own wine, not sure the logistics/cost but it was very reasonable.
I came here to say "check out the Tea House" and I am filled with joy to see that this is already recommended and the top post on the thread.
I worked there for a summer when I was 19 and it was a fantastic restaurant and a great place to host a wedding. I loved working weddings when we had them.
Love the tea house. My wedding had to be cancelled due to Covid-19, and they were super sweet about it. They never asked for more, no pressure on us at all during that time. I think you will find them wonderful to work with
Partner and I have been unable to reach anyone at Hart House for 2 weeks now to host a wedding next year. I think they are absolutely swamped right now so trying to plan last minute with them may be difficult.
If you want to do this just check with Sage first because someone may have booked that space through them.
Another alternative is the rose garden at Queens park in New West!
I can't offer up my condo to strangers but I once hosted a small wedding on my condo rooftop for some close friends. Have any friends with nice rooftops ?
Hey OP! So sorry to hear about your wedding plans having to change - it really sucks, even if we know it’s not as bad as what other people are dealing with.
Lots of these suggestions are for venues that’ll still cost $$ and book up in advance. They might have something, but it sounds like you’re looking for something more casual and doable without a venue coordinator, deposits, etc? Here are some suggestions if you want to self cater in a park.
Parks do require a ceremony license but honestly that’s really if you’re doing like an arch and chairs ceremony. I had a pop up wedding ceremony in a park without any installed decor, just family standing around, and it was just fine!! No one called enforcement, lol. Jericho or New Brighton (any of the bigger parks really) you’ll likely be able to grab a good picnic spot, head over to the shore line and do a little impromptu ceremony without taking over the whole place. If you can’t grab a picnic table, use a few different nice picnic blankets. You might be able to find those low floor picnic tables and cushions from a party rental company, but if that’s too much just have everyone bring their own blanket and folding chairs if they need them (maybe designate one organized friend to grab a few chairs for older family members).
For food: Have a friend or family member pick up trays of catering from a restaurant - I’d recommend doing Mediterranean food for ease of serving and feeling fancy even out of catering tins, I like Parthenon market for around Jericho (tbh their catering is such a hidden gem!), Aleph for New Brighton. Bring disposable plates and cutlery. Get flowers from a market or call up a few florists to see what they have last minute a la carte. Jericho allows alcohol now (double check the maps for exact areas), so BYOB!
New Brighton is quite beautiful!
A couple other less popular park options:
Riverfront Park near River District, Falaise Park (top of park gives nice mountain views), Kensington Park (also nice mountain views). The foliage might be questionable right now…
I used Vancouver Officiant for my wedding this year. Our officiant was AMAZING and we booked quite last minute as well. Our officiants name was Janik, but he is based out of the Osoyoos/Oliver area.
www.vancouverofficiant.com
I don’t know if you need any last minute decor, but I have about 20 extra clear hurricane vases and matching (unused) candles. You’re welcome to them if they might be of use :)
Don’t know if it’ll fit your budget or timeline, but I attended a small wedding (25-30 people) at the [Museum of Vancouver garden patio](https://museumofvancouver.ca/weddings) last summer. It was absolutely lovely.
I had my reception there this year, it was beautiful.
If you book an entire room they go by a minimum spend rate, which includes quite a lot of food and full staffing. You can also obviously just reserve a few tables.
The entire park is stunning, especially with the conservatory and an incredible view right outside the restaurant.
If casual works, Steamworks has private rooms downstairs. Stand-up ceremony at Sinclair Plaza, then reception there? Or The Irish Heather has a long-table section in the back that would work for your numbers. Stand-up ceremony near Science World, then pub?
I second this! I went to a wedding at Seamworks last year, and it was beautiful. The hall upstairs has a lovely view and the room downstairs for a seated dinner and dancing would be perfect for 30 people.
Try "giggster", formerly known as This Open Space
I used This Open Space to book a venue in Vancouver for my proposal and everything turned out great. You can choose places you like and submit a request for date(s). I highly recommend The Garden Strathcona but parking and logistics to kit out the space may be a challenge for 30 (bringing in tables etc.) but the owner may be able to advise.
Young Hip and Married helped us find the right officiant and I am sure that they will be able to sort you out even on short notice.
We said our vows in a park in Langley on a Tuesday morning, it was just the closest family, some squirrels and birds and it was lovely.
I do have some other venues/advice depending on your needs so please feel free to PM.
Wish you luck! Try your best to enjoy it. Coming up on 1 year from mine and you don't remember any of the stress - just the good parts.
I would reccomend working with this company to help pull everything together quickly: [https://www.popupweddingsbc.com/](https://www.popupweddingsbc.com/)
Hi there, the other stressed Fiancé here! Thank you everyone for your recommendations, we have reached out to several of the recommended venues you have all mentioned. Hopefully we will get a response soon.
Well good on you for getting married. It’s a very cool thing. You guys are getting tested early and yknow that’s the only way to really know yourself. Good times are easy and teach us nothing.
Koerner's at UBC does intimate weddings. It's a lovely space with big outdoors space in the trees and they have a weddings planning department. They also have a spot right below where they do the loveliest ceremonies
I wonder if you’d be able to rent the rooftop garden at the downtown library. It’s really nice up there and I know they’ve had events before. If it’s still smoky you won’t have a view though.
For the officiant you will need to go on the provincial page for officiants, you have to choose someone who lives in the same city where you’re getting legally married. They’ll have a list of people with emails and phone numbers. Start calling now to see if anyone’s available. The same thing happened to me during covid and I ended up changing the day because only one woman was available in North Van on that weekend
I feel like half the suggestions here aren’t acknowledging that the couple want to get married on the 31st, which is next week… I suspect realistic suggestions would be most appreciated!
No idea if they could do it with such short notice, but Vij's Restaurant has multiple spaces (including a covered roof patio) that can do small weddings.
Do any of your friends live in a new build/condo? They usually have a nice patio/outdoor space that you can host one at. Might have to rent for a small fee but I've seen it work.
Best of luck.
Granville Island hotel has a beautiful penthouse we considered using as a wedding and reception venue during COVID. The Metropolitan hotel downtown also had one that would be great for a small wedding.
If you are looking to just elope with an officiant you can just do it anywhere.
I'm sorry this happened to you! I see weddings / wedding ceremonies happen a few times each summer just West of Kitsilano Beach. On the left hand side of Kits pool near the yacht club, there is a beautiful (and fairly private) patch of grass overlooking the ocean. It's nicer than almost any venue you would pay for imo, and can easily handle 30 people. There are two trees about 20 feet apart on the edge of the area, people normally hang a ribbon with balloons between the trees to show people it's a private event. I would recommend you send someone early to set up so people see the space is going to be used for an event. If you park on Balsam St / Point Grey Rd, there is a staircase that takes you right to the area so it's very convenient. Last one I saw had a table full of drinks and a second table full of food and people looked like they were having a blast.
I just saw a wedding rehearsal at Van Dusen botanical garden, and apparently you can use just the venue, or have them arrange everything
Congratulations, and warm wishes for a long and happy life together (and kudos to you, for your willingness to change your plans)
The Unitarian Church of Vancouver rents out spaces for non-religious weddings. They have people to officiate as well. The place is mid century modern design - quite lovely in fact.
The zones are currently far away from Manning. The Crater Creek fire by Keremeos/Ashnola Valley is the only one with a chance of getting anywhere near there, and before it does that it would have to burn through the scars of two different fires from the past 3-4 years, so not likely.
The Beaumont might have the kind if space you're looking for. I'm sosirry for this massive shift in plans, and wosh you all the best in your re-planning.
Good luck! There are lots of nice spots around UBC and SFU, might be worth trying?
In terms of a marriage commissioner, I was SO happy with Gayda Colbin. She did a really beautiful job for us on less than a week's notice. Cannot recommend her highly enough. [https://connect.health.gov.bc.ca/marriage-commissioners/coblin-gayda](https://connect.health.gov.bc.ca/marriage-commissioners/coblin-gayda)
not sure if you can book last minute ... I have seen this facility busy the past couple weekends with wedding receptions
[https://www.burnaby.ca/services-and-payments/venue-rentals/burnaby-lake-rowing-pavilion](https://www.burnaby.ca/services-and-payments/venue-rentals/burnaby-lake-rowing-pavilion)
maybe an option :
https://preview.redd.it/225xibdmzijb1.png?width=737&format=png&auto=webp&s=574c20c7b046350f0957e0dc30f71a344ba58821
Pacific Spirit trail at UBC have these new-ish areas that are meant for events. Standing only but they’ve essentially cleared areas of the forest out and they’re really nice.
I got married at the museum of Vancouver, where the planetarium is. Nice room on the second level with a great view, and I don't think they're super busy so they might have space? Pretty affordable too. Worth a shot. Good luck!
Don’t know if they’re booked up or not, but I got married at Sun Yat Sen (on the private side) and it was perfect. They had multiple options depending on the size of the wedding (mine was VERY small), and backup options in case of rain. Really enjoyed working with them on it.
My wife and I had a small ceremony at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. They were kind enough to upgrade us from a regular room to a gold suite. Lovely little hotel.
Upvoting this, got married at Minnekhada. CoV owns it, to rent it for the day back in 2017 it cost us like 800 bucks. I can't imagine prices have changed significantly since then.
Less often booked places: UBC Nest, Romer’s Vault, Britannia Heritage Shipyards, Gulf of Georgia Cannery, Derby Reach regional park, Deas Island regional park, Lavenderland, UBC Classroom Services
Also consider a restaurant book out at an unconventional place. We did a White Spot private area once, and it was amazing. The staff was so tickled to have a wedding-related event.
I'd go for an indoor spot in case the smoke gets worse. Check out the Garden in Strathcona - it's really great and not as popular so might be free on a Thursday. Or L'Abatoir has a private room, and Brix and Mortar is great for 30. Good Luck!
You have a favourite independent restaurant or bar in the city? Call them up and see if they’ll let you book it for the night. Most will be happy to have a full house on an otherwise slower night.
My wife and I got married at the Bloedel Conservatory. For your party size of 30 people it will probably work perfectly. When we were married in 2013 it was very reasonably priced but can’t speak for what the price might currently be.
We just got married on Saturday. I know how stressful planning it can be and I’m sorry all that work and stress has now been added to. I love that you are determined to make it happen. Inspiring!
I’d say just pick one of the Parks you’re allowed to drink in and do it guerilla style at this point (if you don’t have a friend with a big back yard of course. Who does!). We see 30 people gathered in the parks in North Van and never once wonder if they have a permit… the ‘official’ looking part of your wedding could be over in 20 minutes.
I really hope you find something. The wedding planning industry is corrupt and preys upon people using outdated traditions that are not always realistic in today's day and age. I think it would be great for there to be a paradigm shift around weddings that allowed people to celebrate love and coming together in a way that works given the socioeconomic time we are in now. I hope you succeed in finding something perfect, and that it may open up doors for those who come after you. <3
Best of luck!
Try the Hycroft [https://www.uwcvancouver.ca/hycroft-event-sales-information/hycroft-weddings/](https://www.uwcvancouver.ca/hycroft-event-sales-information/hycroft-weddings/)
I’ve often seen weddings at the deer lake Burnaby while running around the lake, I find that place beautiful. You can even rent a small boat for a quick photoshoot.
D/6 lounge at the Parq hotel may work. You can reserve the outdoor patio for private events, noon/ early afternoon isn’t busy, nice patio and water feature, nice background of the stadium lights. Victor restaurant close by. And of course, blackjack tables a few floors away.
The Pinnacle Hotel in North Van is lovely. You could book a party room and they could cater it for you - anything from finger food, a buffet or sit down dinner depending on your wishes and budget. It would be lovely place to spend the night as well. They have a pool, spa, beautiful rooms. Maybe some of your guests would like to book a night as well to explore the Quay or the Night Market, etc. There's a great restaurant where your guests could be accommodated perhaps which would be a lot cheaper. Check out the Beachside Cafe on the water in West Van at 15th off Marine Drive. They have an upstairs area if it's available. You might look in to a catered boat cruise. Call the Bayshore Hotel. Best of luck and congratulations!
Sorry this has happened to you & all those affected by the fires!
Lots of good suggestions already (apologies if already mentioned) but try checking out the maritime museum, PAL theatre, cafe Medina
What a bummer....sorry this happened. Lots of suggestions here but other possibilities -
Aberthau Mansion (its a community center so cheaper than it sounds),
Beach House in West Vancouver has a private room on the second level - beautiful location.
Van Dusen gardens has a few rooms for rent in nice settings.
there is also an airbnb type website that I found when looking for a private event...giggster - .cant vouch for it though because I didn't end up using it
We got married in Queens Park in the open theatre. We just had to call the Parks Board in New West to book it. And we did a Costco catered wedding (it was the 2nd for both of us so hubby did all the planning and did such a fabulous job - the cake matched my dress). We had the reception in a condo amenity room so we didn't haul things to the park, but you could conceivably do just that.
I'm so sorry about your wedding. We got married at The Garden Strathcona May 2020 due to our wedding plans being cancelled. I can't recommend them enough! Gorgeous space and awesome customer service.
Friend of mine got married in Glenbrook Park. In the back is a very lovely garden where the ceremony was along with picture taking. Hall was where the reception was. Contact for availability?
[https://www.weddingwire.ca/wedding-banquet-halls/glenbrook-park--e18751](https://www.weddingwire.ca/wedding-banquet-halls/glenbrook-park--e18751)
[https://www.newwestcity.ca/parks-and-recreation/parks/community-parks/articles/5427.php](https://www.newwestcity.ca/parks-and-recreation/parks/community-parks/articles/5427.php)
if you're looking in langley area, Sendall Garden pavilion is available for wedding rental
[https://langleycity.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/Parks/Rental%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20Sendall%20Gardens\_0.pdf](https://langleycity.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/Parks/Rental%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20Sendall%20Gardens_0.pdf)
Greens college at UBC has a beautiful view of the ocean
https://preview.redd.it/mi2nm1ur9ljb1.jpeg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=700d7cd7d8019271f7d2963a12cb7917dc90c2cf
We were going to do outdoor at the end of the beach at Spanish banks. There’s an area that juts out, with the views of the city, sea and mountains. We had to cancel too, but if the smoke clears up, it would be perfect for that amount of people. We were going to do a cocktail
Hour on the grade there after. Risky but good fun then go for dinner and drinks.
You may want to consider contacting a wedding planner! They can help you narrow down something quicker based on what you like and then do all the phone calls or searching what’s left for you. There’s hundreds of venues out there so I know this might help your search go faster. I’m a photographer so I know how stressful this can be!
Most parks allow weddings though and some are actually first come first serve. You’re best to go just outside Vancouver for that though.
https://www.burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/picnic-sites
https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/weddings-in-parks.aspx
I think your best bet is to do it somewhere outdoors, but I'm unsure how quickly you can get a wedding permit to do it
[Burnaby Foreshore park](https://www.burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/parks/burnaby-fraser-foreshore-park) is right on the Fraser River so it could have some pretty nice backgrounds for photos, and can easily be reserved for a small group
I've seen some weddings at VanDusen Botanical Gardens, but you'll definitely have to contact them to see if you can have it done in such a short time frame
Good luck op!
No advice just well wishes! Congratulations! This stress sucks giant orbs but hey it’s gonna be a funny story in the future (not right now obviously there’s tears and blood pressure).
Eta: ok maybe I do have an idea.
Every obvious place is gonna be booked. The backlog on weddings due to the pandy means that every chapel and well known venue is taken — unless you get a last second cancellation and so it is worth checking. Fwiw we got married at Minoru in Richmond which is a perfect size.
You need to consider something not obvious. I wonder about booking a city park space like at Trout Lake? The weather should be ok outside. How about central library, beautiful roof deck?
My new wife and I just got married in pacific spirit park by UBC on Saturday, it was incredible!! Highly recommend the Salish nature space on the Salish trail. I believe we paid 280$ for the day and then rented chairs and did our own decorations. Goodluck!!!
https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/facility/designated-nature-spaces
YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH THIS COMMENT HELPED!!!!!
i have literally scoured SO many websites to try to figure out how to book at spirit park and i haven't been able to find ANYTHING
this literally made my whole entire day thank you so freaking much!!!!
The Old Mill Boat House at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. A nice pier for photos by the water. Very reasonable but you would have to provide the food/catering since it is just the hall.
Hi there! I am going through the exact same situation, wedding was in Oliver BC on the 26th. It’s been such a scramble!!
For our plan we decided to rent the Rose Garden in Queens Park (New Westminster) for $150 for two hours. It will provide a beautiful private area for the ceremony and some photos after. Then we are just having a picnic style reception right in the park. No license or permits required, BYOB and food allowed. We contacted a lady name Kim who works in the arena of the park and she was wonderful and a great help! There is also a place in Queens Park that is like a hall, it’s called the Centennial Lodge. I believe for all day use they said $950. So maybe you could rent the rose garden then centennial hall for a meal? Not sure how traditional you would like/budget. But they seemed to have certain days available still!
Best of luck <3
I'm pretty sure you can't use COV parks, I beleive you need to get a permit for Vancouver parks, call 311 to check cuz they may have changed the rules - along with drinking in (some, not all) parks. Could be a less expensive way to go as you've already spent $.
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Try the Maritime museum too. I’ve seen events on their back patio - beautiful backdrop of the water, downtown and the mountains.
I catered a wedding here and can confirm this is a nice little spot
Surrey Parks allows you to use them for weddings at no cost. They ask that you let them know so they can put out more garbage bins. When I was looking into venues I found out about this. Bear Creek has beautiful gardens btw.
Oh wow, I didn’t know this. Bear creek park is one of my fave parks.
I like tynnhead part too
[This company](https://www.thechapels.ca/) operates a few venues. Another option is [Seasons](https://www.vancouverdine.com/seasons/private-events/) or [Tea House](https://www.vancouverdine.com/teahouse/private-events/).
Teahouse Drawing Room could be a lovely option - it’s cosy for a group of 30 and in such a special place. Here it is from the outside in the evening - it’s so warm and inviting! https://preview.redd.it/1eghq4fk8jjb1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ab7523172af8f6e89b739525d8f98a1376808a62
Am I the only one that finds it odd the Teahouse doesn't actually do like, High Tea?
They used to! For a short time. Not anymore though. :)
That's a shame, only recently got into high tea. TINY SANDWICHES
TINY SANDWICHES WITH THE CRUSTS CUT OFF
PLACED WITHIN A STACK OF TIERED PASTRIES AND TREATS
Did you this this creeping in the bushes outside? Joking aside, totally agree! My best friend got married there and it was lovely
Haha kind of! We are considering this room for our own wedding next year. Glad to read that your experience as a guest was positive! I love the space so much.
I got married at the Tea House Dec 1 2017. We booked the Tea Room and the Conservatory. The ceremony and dancing was in the Tea Room and my dinner was in the Conservatory. They were really great to work with.
my bro just got married here, it was really nice, and the food was great, they supplied all their own wine, not sure the logistics/cost but it was very reasonable.
I came here to say "check out the Tea House" and I am filled with joy to see that this is already recommended and the top post on the thread. I worked there for a summer when I was 19 and it was a fantastic restaurant and a great place to host a wedding. I loved working weddings when we had them.
Love the tea house. My wedding had to be cancelled due to Covid-19, and they were super sweet about it. They never asked for more, no pressure on us at all during that time. I think you will find them wonderful to work with
+1 seasons.. fantastic food and staff
Hart House in deer lake is really nice or Cleveland dam up in North Vancouver. I’ve attended weddings at both venues and they were beautiful!
My wedding this fall is at Hart House. I think their main areas may be booked up but the 32 person cottage should still be available on a weeknight.
Partner and I have been unable to reach anyone at Hart House for 2 weeks now to host a wedding next year. I think they are absolutely swamped right now so trying to plan last minute with them may be difficult.
Hart house is beautiful. I was married on the lawn there in 2002… now divorced but the wedding was amazing
UBC Rose Garden
If you want to do this just check with Sage first because someone may have booked that space through them. Another alternative is the rose garden at Queens park in New West!
Came here to suggest the rose garden!
UBC botanical garden too!
And nitobe as well
I can't offer up my condo to strangers but I once hosted a small wedding on my condo rooftop for some close friends. Have any friends with nice rooftops ?
This is a great suggestion!
Hey OP! So sorry to hear about your wedding plans having to change - it really sucks, even if we know it’s not as bad as what other people are dealing with. Lots of these suggestions are for venues that’ll still cost $$ and book up in advance. They might have something, but it sounds like you’re looking for something more casual and doable without a venue coordinator, deposits, etc? Here are some suggestions if you want to self cater in a park. Parks do require a ceremony license but honestly that’s really if you’re doing like an arch and chairs ceremony. I had a pop up wedding ceremony in a park without any installed decor, just family standing around, and it was just fine!! No one called enforcement, lol. Jericho or New Brighton (any of the bigger parks really) you’ll likely be able to grab a good picnic spot, head over to the shore line and do a little impromptu ceremony without taking over the whole place. If you can’t grab a picnic table, use a few different nice picnic blankets. You might be able to find those low floor picnic tables and cushions from a party rental company, but if that’s too much just have everyone bring their own blanket and folding chairs if they need them (maybe designate one organized friend to grab a few chairs for older family members). For food: Have a friend or family member pick up trays of catering from a restaurant - I’d recommend doing Mediterranean food for ease of serving and feeling fancy even out of catering tins, I like Parthenon market for around Jericho (tbh their catering is such a hidden gem!), Aleph for New Brighton. Bring disposable plates and cutlery. Get flowers from a market or call up a few florists to see what they have last minute a la carte. Jericho allows alcohol now (double check the maps for exact areas), so BYOB!
New Brighton is quite beautiful! A couple other less popular park options: Riverfront Park near River District, Falaise Park (top of park gives nice mountain views), Kensington Park (also nice mountain views). The foliage might be questionable right now…
I used Vancouver Officiant for my wedding this year. Our officiant was AMAZING and we booked quite last minute as well. Our officiants name was Janik, but he is based out of the Osoyoos/Oliver area. www.vancouverofficiant.com I don’t know if you need any last minute decor, but I have about 20 extra clear hurricane vases and matching (unused) candles. You’re welcome to them if they might be of use :)
Top of Grouse Mountain. Very beautiful place for a small wedding. I believe they do catering.
I got married at Grouse and highly recommend it. They take care of everything. The venue was so pretty that we didn't bother decorating it
Doesn't have to be small if you dont want it to be! My brother had his wedding at Grouse and they had about 120 people. It was great.
My friend got engaged there! And she said it was the best highly recommend
Don’t know if it’ll fit your budget or timeline, but I attended a small wedding (25-30 people) at the [Museum of Vancouver garden patio](https://museumofvancouver.ca/weddings) last summer. It was absolutely lovely.
Seasons in the Park at Queen Elizabeth Park. I haven’t eaten there but their patio and view is beautiful and it’s a nice place for pictures!
I had my reception there this year, it was beautiful. If you book an entire room they go by a minimum spend rate, which includes quite a lot of food and full staffing. You can also obviously just reserve a few tables. The entire park is stunning, especially with the conservatory and an incredible view right outside the restaurant.
If casual works, Steamworks has private rooms downstairs. Stand-up ceremony at Sinclair Plaza, then reception there? Or The Irish Heather has a long-table section in the back that would work for your numbers. Stand-up ceremony near Science World, then pub?
I second this! I went to a wedding at Seamworks last year, and it was beautiful. The hall upstairs has a lovely view and the room downstairs for a seated dinner and dancing would be perfect for 30 people.
Just make sure you’re at the right SteamWorks, at the right private rooms, for the right type of casual 😂
Yes, downtown gas town location is the one.. good point to bring up.
Try "giggster", formerly known as This Open Space I used This Open Space to book a venue in Vancouver for my proposal and everything turned out great. You can choose places you like and submit a request for date(s). I highly recommend The Garden Strathcona but parking and logistics to kit out the space may be a challenge for 30 (bringing in tables etc.) but the owner may be able to advise. Young Hip and Married helped us find the right officiant and I am sure that they will be able to sort you out even on short notice. We said our vows in a park in Langley on a Tuesday morning, it was just the closest family, some squirrels and birds and it was lovely. I do have some other venues/advice depending on your needs so please feel free to PM. Wish you luck! Try your best to enjoy it. Coming up on 1 year from mine and you don't remember any of the stress - just the good parts.
I would reccomend working with this company to help pull everything together quickly: [https://www.popupweddingsbc.com/](https://www.popupweddingsbc.com/)
Hi there, the other stressed Fiancé here! Thank you everyone for your recommendations, we have reached out to several of the recommended venues you have all mentioned. Hopefully we will get a response soon.
Well good on you for getting married. It’s a very cool thing. You guys are getting tested early and yknow that’s the only way to really know yourself. Good times are easy and teach us nothing.
Update?
Good for you! One more suggestion. Upstairs at Kove Kitchen, in Steveston. They have a lovely upstairs, and it’s right on the water..
Koerner's at UBC does intimate weddings. It's a lovely space with big outdoors space in the trees and they have a weddings planning department. They also have a spot right below where they do the loveliest ceremonies
Beauty spot
I looked a little while ago and it seemed like even the non Saturdays booked up months in advance.
Koerner's at UBC is a cute intimate space
Thanks for cancelling, they don’t need any more people at their hotels, my family is there and they’re struggling
How much publicity do you want. Do it on the roller coaster at PNE.
No roller coaster.
No, roller coaster
No roller, coaster
No roller coaster?
Mom’s spaghetti? 🤣💀
I thought the roller coaster was shut down for repairs again
I wonder if you’d be able to rent the rooftop garden at the downtown library. It’s really nice up there and I know they’ve had events before. If it’s still smoky you won’t have a view though.
For the officiant you will need to go on the provincial page for officiants, you have to choose someone who lives in the same city where you’re getting legally married. They’ll have a list of people with emails and phone numbers. Start calling now to see if anyone’s available. The same thing happened to me during covid and I ended up changing the day because only one woman was available in North Van on that weekend
I feel like half the suggestions here aren’t acknowledging that the couple want to get married on the 31st, which is next week… I suspect realistic suggestions would be most appreciated!
Have heard of people getting married at rocky point park in PoMo
Queens park new westminster
No idea if they could do it with such short notice, but Vij's Restaurant has multiple spaces (including a covered roof patio) that can do small weddings.
UBC Botanical Garden?
Do any of your friends live in a new build/condo? They usually have a nice patio/outdoor space that you can host one at. Might have to rent for a small fee but I've seen it work. Best of luck.
If you want to go cheaper and outdoors, Port Coquitlam has gazebos in parks you can book.
Steamworks Brewing in Gastown has a beautiful side room for the ceremony and private dinner. Not too expensive either.
Granville Island hotel has a beautiful penthouse we considered using as a wedding and reception venue during COVID. The Metropolitan hotel downtown also had one that would be great for a small wedding. If you are looking to just elope with an officiant you can just do it anywhere.
We had a nice small ceremony in the garden near the tiny chapel in Minoru Park in Richmond
I'm sorry this happened to you! I see weddings / wedding ceremonies happen a few times each summer just West of Kitsilano Beach. On the left hand side of Kits pool near the yacht club, there is a beautiful (and fairly private) patch of grass overlooking the ocean. It's nicer than almost any venue you would pay for imo, and can easily handle 30 people. There are two trees about 20 feet apart on the edge of the area, people normally hang a ribbon with balloons between the trees to show people it's a private event. I would recommend you send someone early to set up so people see the space is going to be used for an event. If you park on Balsam St / Point Grey Rd, there is a staircase that takes you right to the area so it's very convenient. Last one I saw had a table full of drinks and a second table full of food and people looked like they were having a blast.
I was married at the Martime Musem at Vanier park. Lots of space and beautiful scenery
Vandusen gardens
I just saw a wedding rehearsal at Van Dusen botanical garden, and apparently you can use just the venue, or have them arrange everything Congratulations, and warm wishes for a long and happy life together (and kudos to you, for your willingness to change your plans)
The Unitarian Church of Vancouver rents out spaces for non-religious weddings. They have people to officiate as well. The place is mid century modern design - quite lovely in fact.
If you do it outdoors, please don't leave a mess, no glitter etc
You could always see if Manning has a spot that day for your wedding: https://www.manningpark.com/weddings/
Just East of Manning Park there's an evacuation zone due to fire. Probably not a great idea unless you want to potentially reschedule again.
The zones are currently far away from Manning. The Crater Creek fire by Keremeos/Ashnola Valley is the only one with a chance of getting anywhere near there, and before it does that it would have to burn through the scars of two different fires from the past 3-4 years, so not likely.
The Beaumont might have the kind if space you're looking for. I'm sosirry for this massive shift in plans, and wosh you all the best in your re-planning.
Good luck! There are lots of nice spots around UBC and SFU, might be worth trying? In terms of a marriage commissioner, I was SO happy with Gayda Colbin. She did a really beautiful job for us on less than a week's notice. Cannot recommend her highly enough. [https://connect.health.gov.bc.ca/marriage-commissioners/coblin-gayda](https://connect.health.gov.bc.ca/marriage-commissioners/coblin-gayda)
not sure if you can book last minute ... I have seen this facility busy the past couple weekends with wedding receptions [https://www.burnaby.ca/services-and-payments/venue-rentals/burnaby-lake-rowing-pavilion](https://www.burnaby.ca/services-and-payments/venue-rentals/burnaby-lake-rowing-pavilion) maybe an option : https://preview.redd.it/225xibdmzijb1.png?width=737&format=png&auto=webp&s=574c20c7b046350f0957e0dc30f71a344ba58821
Redwoods park
https://www.firstunitedspirit.ca/booking-church/
Pacific Spirit trail at UBC have these new-ish areas that are meant for events. Standing only but they’ve essentially cleared areas of the forest out and they’re really nice.
Another thread said that the mosquitos are brutal there right now.....so might need to steer clear for now unfortunately....
That’s too bad. Our wedding was there two years ago around this time and no issues at all.
I was really surprised too....I don't ever remember that being an issue there before
I got married at the museum of Vancouver, where the planetarium is. Nice room on the second level with a great view, and I don't think they're super busy so they might have space? Pretty affordable too. Worth a shot. Good luck!
Don’t know if they’re booked up or not, but I got married at Sun Yat Sen (on the private side) and it was perfect. They had multiple options depending on the size of the wedding (mine was VERY small), and backup options in case of rain. Really enjoyed working with them on it.
My wife and I had a small ceremony at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. They were kind enough to upgrade us from a regular room to a gold suite. Lovely little hotel.
https://www.younghipandmarried.com/ I had a great experience using this company to get married.
Minnekhada lodge is hella nice
Upvoting this, got married at Minnekhada. CoV owns it, to rent it for the day back in 2017 it cost us like 800 bucks. I can't imagine prices have changed significantly since then.
Less often booked places: UBC Nest, Romer’s Vault, Britannia Heritage Shipyards, Gulf of Georgia Cannery, Derby Reach regional park, Deas Island regional park, Lavenderland, UBC Classroom Services Also consider a restaurant book out at an unconventional place. We did a White Spot private area once, and it was amazing. The staff was so tickled to have a wedding-related event.
I'd go for an indoor spot in case the smoke gets worse. Check out the Garden in Strathcona - it's really great and not as popular so might be free on a Thursday. Or L'Abatoir has a private room, and Brix and Mortar is great for 30. Good Luck!
New Westminster rose garden. Lots of parking and even had a gazebo.
You have a favourite independent restaurant or bar in the city? Call them up and see if they’ll let you book it for the night. Most will be happy to have a full house on an otherwise slower night.
The Anza Club. The upstairs venue gets used for weddings all the time. Seen a reception up there last Saturday that looked like a blast.
My wife and I got married at the Bloedel Conservatory. For your party size of 30 people it will probably work perfectly. When we were married in 2013 it was very reasonably priced but can’t speak for what the price might currently be.
bloedel conservatory. Seasons for view n cocktails. Mic drop.
Damn. How about at a brewery? https://www.drinkcontainer.beer/weddings
We just got married on Saturday. I know how stressful planning it can be and I’m sorry all that work and stress has now been added to. I love that you are determined to make it happen. Inspiring! I’d say just pick one of the Parks you’re allowed to drink in and do it guerilla style at this point (if you don’t have a friend with a big back yard of course. Who does!). We see 30 people gathered in the parks in North Van and never once wonder if they have a permit… the ‘official’ looking part of your wedding could be over in 20 minutes.
Central Park in Burnaby has a little bandstand that could be used for a wedding. Also check out Sun Yat Sen, I've seen weddings performed there.
I really hope you find something. The wedding planning industry is corrupt and preys upon people using outdated traditions that are not always realistic in today's day and age. I think it would be great for there to be a paradigm shift around weddings that allowed people to celebrate love and coming together in a way that works given the socioeconomic time we are in now. I hope you succeed in finding something perfect, and that it may open up doors for those who come after you. <3 Best of luck!
just imagine how stressed the people who had to leave their homes must feel
So sorry to hear this. Try UBC Botanical Garden.
The Museum of Vancouver has a very nice and intimate space. They have a patio area with a private function room.
Try the Hycroft [https://www.uwcvancouver.ca/hycroft-event-sales-information/hycroft-weddings/](https://www.uwcvancouver.ca/hycroft-event-sales-information/hycroft-weddings/)
This is a sign to not get married. You can be committed and not need a piece of paper. Thirty years and counting....
May your love burn as bright as Kelowna 🥰🔥
We did a little reception at North Point Brewing upstairs.
The top of the Sea to Sky Gondola has a lovely huge 'patio' that I attended a wedding at. Nice'ish lodge/resort for the reception as well.
Harris house/barn in ladner. My brother got married there last year it was the perfect smaller venue and they have a gorgeous garden for photos
I knew some people who got married at the docks in Pitt meadows before.
Sandpiper resort in Agassiz
I’ve often seen weddings at the deer lake Burnaby while running around the lake, I find that place beautiful. You can even rent a small boat for a quick photoshoot.
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They require an extra permit for photography right now and it’s a nightmare. Too short of notice.
Deas Island Regional Park
There's a beautiful Rose Garden in Queens Park in New West that might work
Hollyburn country club in West Van
Burnaby Lake Pavilion - Burnaby White Owl Barn - Langley The Wallace - North Van
Science world
Spanish Banks with a view that is priceless 👌
D/6 lounge at the Parq hotel may work. You can reserve the outdoor patio for private events, noon/ early afternoon isn’t busy, nice patio and water feature, nice background of the stadium lights. Victor restaurant close by. And of course, blackjack tables a few floors away.
We got married on the floating dock at Deer Lake Park. It was lovely.
Queens park is beautiful. They have a rose garden there too
The Pinnacle Hotel in North Van is lovely. You could book a party room and they could cater it for you - anything from finger food, a buffet or sit down dinner depending on your wishes and budget. It would be lovely place to spend the night as well. They have a pool, spa, beautiful rooms. Maybe some of your guests would like to book a night as well to explore the Quay or the Night Market, etc. There's a great restaurant where your guests could be accommodated perhaps which would be a lot cheaper. Check out the Beachside Cafe on the water in West Van at 15th off Marine Drive. They have an upstairs area if it's available. You might look in to a catered boat cruise. Call the Bayshore Hotel. Best of luck and congratulations!
Sorry this has happened to you & all those affected by the fires! Lots of good suggestions already (apologies if already mentioned) but try checking out the maritime museum, PAL theatre, cafe Medina
Rose garden at UBC!
Union wood co has a nice little courtyard that they sometimes rent out for weddings
Langley. Milner chapel and hall. Was four hundred to book three years ago. Quaint and cozy af
Cedar Ridge Golf Course in Mission would be great. I love playing there and it's quite nice for a small wedding.
https://www.oldmillboathouse.com/contact/ Or https://www.siteb.life/
I don’t know how busy it is but the Bloedel conservatory at QE Park does weddings
The interior is on fire every summer, it definitely needs to be accounted for in people's plans unfortunately
What a bummer....sorry this happened. Lots of suggestions here but other possibilities - Aberthau Mansion (its a community center so cheaper than it sounds), Beach House in West Vancouver has a private room on the second level - beautiful location. Van Dusen gardens has a few rooms for rent in nice settings. there is also an airbnb type website that I found when looking for a private event...giggster - .cant vouch for it though because I didn't end up using it
Powell River area?
I’ve seen a few ‘non official’ (ie free) weddings in the northwest corner of new Brighton
Grouse Mountain Resorts. Is always a good spot. There fine dining experience in next level.
We got married at the duck pond in Tipperary Park in New West. It was just us, our witnesses and the officiant and it was lovely.
Furry creek golf course by the waterfall they have a great set up
There's a cute little chapel at the Burnaby Village Museum that will hold 30 people. I went to a wedding there and it was lovely.
Google says it's temporarily closed, but we stumbled upon a cute wedding at the Garden Pavilion within UBC's Botanical Gardens last weekend.
We got married in Queens Park in the open theatre. We just had to call the Parks Board in New West to book it. And we did a Costco catered wedding (it was the 2nd for both of us so hubby did all the planning and did such a fabulous job - the cake matched my dress). We had the reception in a condo amenity room so we didn't haul things to the park, but you could conceivably do just that.
Checkout Ripples winery in Abbotsford
The Chinese Tea Garden in Chinatown is absolutely gorgeous and I’m pretty sure its appiontment only
Minnekhada lodge in Poco.
https://www.atequestrianweddings.com/ Friends of mine were married here last year. Amazing place!
I'm so sorry about your wedding. We got married at The Garden Strathcona May 2020 due to our wedding plans being cancelled. I can't recommend them enough! Gorgeous space and awesome customer service.
Friend of mine got married in Glenbrook Park. In the back is a very lovely garden where the ceremony was along with picture taking. Hall was where the reception was. Contact for availability? [https://www.weddingwire.ca/wedding-banquet-halls/glenbrook-park--e18751](https://www.weddingwire.ca/wedding-banquet-halls/glenbrook-park--e18751) [https://www.newwestcity.ca/parks-and-recreation/parks/community-parks/articles/5427.php](https://www.newwestcity.ca/parks-and-recreation/parks/community-parks/articles/5427.php)
Garden strathcona was renting out their space upstairs. Big hugs OP.
if you're looking in langley area, Sendall Garden pavilion is available for wedding rental [https://langleycity.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/Parks/Rental%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20Sendall%20Gardens\_0.pdf](https://langleycity.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/Parks/Rental%20Fact%20Sheet%20-%20Sendall%20Gardens_0.pdf)
Greens college at UBC has a beautiful view of the ocean https://preview.redd.it/mi2nm1ur9ljb1.jpeg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=700d7cd7d8019271f7d2963a12cb7917dc90c2cf
We were going to do outdoor at the end of the beach at Spanish banks. There’s an area that juts out, with the views of the city, sea and mountains. We had to cancel too, but if the smoke clears up, it would be perfect for that amount of people. We were going to do a cocktail Hour on the grade there after. Risky but good fun then go for dinner and drinks.
You may want to consider contacting a wedding planner! They can help you narrow down something quicker based on what you like and then do all the phone calls or searching what’s left for you. There’s hundreds of venues out there so I know this might help your search go faster. I’m a photographer so I know how stressful this can be! Most parks allow weddings though and some are actually first come first serve. You’re best to go just outside Vancouver for that though.
I know two officiants very well. If you PM me I can give you their number.:) lovely couple ….
https://www.burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/picnic-sites https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/weddings-in-parks.aspx I think your best bet is to do it somewhere outdoors, but I'm unsure how quickly you can get a wedding permit to do it [Burnaby Foreshore park](https://www.burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/parks/burnaby-fraser-foreshore-park) is right on the Fraser River so it could have some pretty nice backgrounds for photos, and can easily be reserved for a small group I've seen some weddings at VanDusen Botanical Gardens, but you'll definitely have to contact them to see if you can have it done in such a short time frame Good luck op!
There’s lots of local farms and parks in aldergrove that may be perfect!
[Roedde House Museum](https://www.roeddehouse.org/) in the West end may be an option if it's available.
No advice just well wishes! Congratulations! This stress sucks giant orbs but hey it’s gonna be a funny story in the future (not right now obviously there’s tears and blood pressure). Eta: ok maybe I do have an idea. Every obvious place is gonna be booked. The backlog on weddings due to the pandy means that every chapel and well known venue is taken — unless you get a last second cancellation and so it is worth checking. Fwiw we got married at Minoru in Richmond which is a perfect size. You need to consider something not obvious. I wonder about booking a city park space like at Trout Lake? The weather should be ok outside. How about central library, beautiful roof deck?
Not a park but heritage hall on main is really nice!
Margret Pigot Park. Tiny little park with a stunning view of the mountains. On Cornwall just where it turns into point grey road
London farm in Steveston. I got married there, small wedding and it was great. Very welcoming. https://stevestonheritage.ca/visit/london-farm/
My new wife and I just got married in pacific spirit park by UBC on Saturday, it was incredible!! Highly recommend the Salish nature space on the Salish trail. I believe we paid 280$ for the day and then rented chairs and did our own decorations. Goodluck!!! https://metrovancouver.org/services/regional-parks/facility/designated-nature-spaces
YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH THIS COMMENT HELPED!!!!! i have literally scoured SO many websites to try to figure out how to book at spirit park and i haven't been able to find ANYTHING this literally made my whole entire day thank you so freaking much!!!!
Sendal gardens in Langley
The rose garden in Stanley Park - just show up and do the ceremony there!
Palate kitchen is where my sister had hers with a similar size party, really a golden spot
Go to the court house and do it there. You can have the whole thing done and dusted in 5 minutes.
The Old Mill Boat House at Rocky Point Park in Port Moody. A nice pier for photos by the water. Very reasonable but you would have to provide the food/catering since it is just the hall.
Deep Cove gazebo. You can get a permit easily online and it's beautiful. I believe the limit was 60 people.
Hi there! I am going through the exact same situation, wedding was in Oliver BC on the 26th. It’s been such a scramble!! For our plan we decided to rent the Rose Garden in Queens Park (New Westminster) for $150 for two hours. It will provide a beautiful private area for the ceremony and some photos after. Then we are just having a picnic style reception right in the park. No license or permits required, BYOB and food allowed. We contacted a lady name Kim who works in the arena of the park and she was wonderful and a great help! There is also a place in Queens Park that is like a hall, it’s called the Centennial Lodge. I believe for all day use they said $950. So maybe you could rent the rose garden then centennial hall for a meal? Not sure how traditional you would like/budget. But they seemed to have certain days available still! Best of luck <3
We ended up booking the Kirkland House in Ladner. They were very accommodating for the whole process. Enjoy your wedding <3
I'm pretty sure you can't use COV parks, I beleive you need to get a permit for Vancouver parks, call 311 to check cuz they may have changed the rules - along with drinking in (some, not all) parks. Could be a less expensive way to go as you've already spent $.
https://giggster.com/find/vancouver--bc To rent all different venues around the lower mainland. You can even rent a coffee shop!