Candice Marie Photography: Vancouver BC Elopement Photographer

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Best Small Wedding Venues in BC

From enchanting ceremonies in the forest to intimate receptions on the beach, you can find a bit of everything on this list of the best small wedding venues in BC! A small wedding is the perfect option for those who want to include their closest loved ones, but still want a bit of adventure and intimacy on their day. This post is sharing my favourite spots to do exactly that!

So what can you expect to find in this blog on the best small wedding venues in BC?

Before we get into sharing the best of the best small wedding venues in BC, I do want to note a bit of a disclaimer! As a Vancouver wedding photographer, these locations are biased toward southern British Columbia, as it is the area I am most familiar with! 

Some of these venues I’ve photographed plenty and some I have not had the chance to visit, but every single one on the list is an excellent option! If you know of a wedding venue good for intimate weddings that isn’t on this list, please leave a comment and share with me why you love it!  

The venues have been categorized by location! (click on the location to skip to that section) These regions include:

Vancouver Island

Sea to Sky

Sunshine Coast

Lower Mainland

Interior

For each venue, you’ll find information on what makes it unique, how many guests are ideal, links to their websites, and any other goodies that are helpful! 

Do you need help finding a venue not mentioned here? I can help!

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Best Small Wedding Venues in BC on Vancouver Island 

Mount Washington Resort

Whether you are picturing summer sunshine or a winter wonderland for your wedding, Mount Washington Resort can do it all! Less busy than other resort towns in BC, this wedding venue still offers incredible views of Strathcona Park, Comox Glacier, and some epic mountainscapes. If you want an alpine wedding on Vancouver Island, check them out! 

Location: Courtenay, BC

Guest Count: Small to large capacity 

Accommodation: Yes! 

Best Season: Beautiful all year (I prefer summer)

Vibe: Unique ski resort with a lodge, right in the alpine!

Bilston Creek Farm

Holy moly, if you’re having a summer wedding and love the idea of fields of blooming flowers, lines of trees in apple orchards, a timber frame barn, or a long table filled with your closest loved ones as they toast to your love – Bilston Creek Farm is a treat! Get married within the orchard, in the lavender field, or in case of rain, the barn! You can even break bread in the lavender fields if you’d like, just make sure you don’t mind the sweet pollinators buzzing by from time to time. 

Location: Metchosin, just outside of Victoria, BC

Guest Count: Small to large capacity 

Accommodation: Yes! Farmhouse and glamping tents. 

Catering: All meals are locally sourced from Vancouver Island, we love it! 

Best Season: End of july to early August when the fields are in full bloom 

Vibe: Dreamy lavender farm and apple orchard with farm-to-table dining

Starling Lane Vineyard

Take a step into the English countryside without ever leaving BC! Every corner of this winery is packed with old-world charm, from the greenhouse to the gardens to their chickens on the loose. They offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception locations, so no need to worry about rainy days. 

Location: Saanich, just outside of Victoria, BC

Guest Count: Small, <30 guests ideally

Accommodation: None listed

Catering: None listed

Best Season: Any time of year, but summer or autumn would be ideal

Vibe: Charmingly preserved rural winery dating back to the 19th century

Keating Farm

If you love a farm-to-table aspect and appreciate a splash of history, this farm goes back farther than 1888 and a lot of the place has been restored so that present and future generations can enjoy the farm’s appeal. With accessibility to both of Vancouver Island’s hubs (Victoria & Nanaimo) this venue is the perfect balance of being tucked away but logistically very feasible!

Location: Duncan, BC (within 1 hour of both Victoria & Nanaimo)

Guest Count: Small to large capacity 

Accommodation: Three cabins are available onsite as well as a preferred connection to an offsite hotel.

Catering: Open to outside caterers, with an option to incorporate a farm-to-table aspect.

Best Season: Summer or Fall!

Vibe: Historic/elegant rustic with a small-town farm feel.

Wickaninnish Inn

Are you looking for a private old-growth forest ceremony? Well look no further! From their stunning rooms to excursion planning to their thoughtfully created wedding packages, the Wickaninnish Inn is one of the more well-known spots in Tofino for good reason. For more gushing over Wickaninnish and all it has to offer, go read about Allison and Michael’s intimate wedding at this small wedding venue in BC

Location: Tofino, BC

Guest Count: Small to medium, up to 60 guests 

Accommodation: Yes, a variety of rooms and suites are available. 

Catering: Yes, an on-site restaurant, bar, cafe, and wine cellar for every catering need.

Best Season: Any time of year, but summer would be ideal

Vibe: Well-known beach-front hotel with elegant amenities and direct access to old-growth forest

Middle Beach Lodge

This low-key, upscale is a well-kept secret in Tofino! Situated between two beaches with newly built treehouse cabins, a cozy lodge, and an on-site restaurant, this venue is great for very intimate weddings. And actually, it’s where I stay every time I visit Tofino. There’s no private beach, but they do have rainy day options that are stunning. Plus, you can get married on any beach in Tofino without a permit! How cool is that? 

Location: Tofino, BC

Guest Count: Small, up to 12 guests

Accommodation: Yes, treehouse cabins and a main lodge. 

Catering: Yes, gourmet menus with locally sourced ingredients that can’t be beat.

Best Season: Any time of year, but summer or fall would be ideal

Vibe: Well kept secret offering upscale and unique wedding options  

Cedar Haven

Just as the name implies, this small wedding venue in BC is quite literally a cathedral of trees ready to host your intimate wedding. If you want a gorgeous spot in nature to marry your best friend, Cedar Haven is it! For an added bonus, it’s nearby to one of my absolute favourite spots for portrait sessions, East Sooke Regional Park! Check out this engagement photo session that transports you to the grassy cliffs of Scotland while never leaving BC! (Spoiler alert: it’s my own engagement session!!!)

Location: Private property in Sooke, BC

Guest Count: Small, up to 12 guests

Accommodation: None on-site, but they do have a bridal suite for getting ready. 

Catering: None on site

Best Season: Any time of year, but summer would be ideal

Vibe: Minimal private property venue nestled into a deep forest 

Villa Eyrie Resort

Situated on top of a mountain, this resort has crazy pretty views of the lake and valley below! They offer incredible options to spice up your wedding getaway, like arranged adventures in nature or chill spa packages. Quietly marry the love of your life nestled away in the mountains and then spend every second relaxing and taking in this underrated luxury resort. 

Location: Malahat, BC, just 25 minutes from Victoria

Guest Count: Up to 40 guests

Accommodation: Yes, everything from penthouse suites to standard rooms. 

Catering: Yes, the Alpina restaurant’s European-inspired menu will knock your socks off (or so I hear!)

Best Season: Only accepts weddings from October to May

Vibe: All-inclusive mountaintop oasis with a romantic feel and incredible views

Birds Eye Cove Farm

A traditional timber-framed barn is the epicenter of this small wedding venue found on a 300 acre farm on Vancouver Island. With mountain and ocean views, catering sourced fresh from local vendors, and in-house wedding planning services, Bird’s Eye Cove Farm is surely a top choice for getting married in British Columbia. While the farm can accommodate a larger wedding, its quiet country appeal is perfect for an intimate ceremony. 

Location: Duncan, BC

Guest Count: Small and large capacity, up to 150 guests 

Accommodation: A bridal suite is available on the farm. 

Catering: Food trays and light snacks available, as well as farm-to-table catering.

Best Season: Accepts weddings year round

Vibe: Country wedding haven with timber frame barn on impressive acreage 

Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse

With views of their orchards, the Salish Sea, and distant mountain ranges, this cidery is a stunning place for an intimate wedding. If you’re looking for a mix of rural charm and elegant simplicity, Sea Cider Farm could be your spot! And if you and your partner especially appreciate apple cider, it’s definitely a winner. There are plenty of great options for ceremony sites and reception spots on their property! After shooting two weddings here, I can assure you that it’s a beautiful venue!

Location: Saanichton, BC

Guest Count: Small to medium capacity 

Accommodation: No accommodation at the venue. 

Catering: No on-site options, though catering is permitted. 

Best Season: All seasons, though times are restricted for after working hours due to being open to the public. 

Vibe: Classy country vibes at a local apple orchard with great views and even better cider

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

Only accessible by seaplane (YES you read that right), this remote island resort in Tofino brings new meaning to wild luxury. Fine dining and wines merge with wildlife adventures and insane views of the surrounding Clayoquot sound. With no listed wedding packages on their website, this would be ideal for an extremely intimate wedding with few guests. But if an adventure down the path less travelled sounds like something you’d want for your wedding day, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge might be the small venue in BC you need! 

Location: Tofino, BC

Guest Count: Small capacity, no wedding packages. 

Accommodation: Limited luxury resort options. 

Catering: An on-site restaurant with an ever-evolving locally inspired menu prepared by top chefs. 

Best Season: May, June, & September would be great, as the resort offers shoulder season rates! 

Vibe: Off-the-grid luxury tented resort ensuring a unique taste of the beauty of BC 

The Fort Common

Love a hidden gem space in an urban setting? The Fort Common is the sweetest little outdoor courtyard in downtown Victoria and it’s a great spot to string up some lights, decorate a few tables, and get married in the city with the people you love most around you. While there are a few more logistics when it comes to renting a courtyard as your small wedding venue in BC (things like rain, electricity, bathrooms, etc), this spot seems to do an excellent job! And I mean those brick walls?? Pretty charming in my opinion! 

Location: Victoria, BC

Guest Count: Small capacity, no wedding packages. 

Accommodation: No accommodation available. 

Catering: No catering available, though space for a reception set up. 

Best Season: Only open in the summer months

Vibe: Restored brick carriage courtyard tucked into the historic streets of downtown Victoria

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Best Small Wedding Venues in BC within the Sea to Sky

Drumkeeran House

Just 15 minutes from the town of Pemberton, the Drumkeeran House sits tucked into the mountainside forest along the shores of Ivey Lake The Celtic-inspired property has 6 ensuite bedrooms, a library, a billiard room, large outdoor decks, a hot tub, and more. The walls are decorated with original art, carefully selected by the Scottish owners, and it’s truly a one-of-a-kind space. A space perfect for elopements and intimate weddings. Ideal for bringing along your family or closest loved ones, getting married in nature, and celebrating in a natural oasis. 

Location: Pemberton, BC

Guest Count: Small to medium capacity for ceremonies & receptions/dinners.

Accommodation: Up to 12 guests! 

Best Season: Summer & Fall

Vibe: Forest cabin meets Scottish mansion, tucked in the forest along a lake complete with a dock on the property so you can take the canoe or paddleboard out!

Canadian Wilderness Adventures

With a variety of ceremony location options, including a caboose of an old train, Canadian Wilderness Adventures offers you a taste of Callaghan Valley paired with adventure experiences exploring the backcountry. Not into hiking? No worries! Take a dog sled or hop in a 4x4 jeep as they whisk you away to see what the hype is all about. 

Location: Whistler, BC

Guest Count: Small to large capacity, depending on ceremony location. 

Accommodation: No accommodation available. 

Catering: No catering available, though space for a reception set up. 

Best Season: All year round! (summer ideal)

Vibe: Off-the-beaten path adventure company with dreamy ceremony locations deep in the forests of Whistler 

Audain Art Museum

A truly unique event space with a modern black exterior and a warm interior with incredible wood beaming in plenty of natural light. Whether it’s just the two of you or you decide to bring a few of your closest loved ones, this venue is ideal for small ceremonies and even receptions. This space is a dream for a Whistler wedding, especially in the winter. Clean lines of perfectly planned interior design allow for interesting photo opportunities that you normally wouldn’t get with an outdoor elopement. And this venue is in the heart of Whistler, so there’s still plenty of nature to explore for your portraits if you’re dreaming of some notorious mountain views! 

Location: Whistler, BC

Guest Count: Small to large capacity.

Accommodation: N/A but there are plenty of beautiful hotels in the village!

Catering: Preferred catering vendors available.

Best Season: All year-round! (I personally love it for winter and fall!)

Vibe: Modern architecture and art mixed with a natural feel that invites the outdoors into the venue.

North Arm Farm

Direct views of Mount Currie will have you swooning over this popular small wedding venue on a family farm in Pemberton! Dine at a long table with your closest loved ones with magical views and dance the night away under string lights in their open-air barn. You can even make a trip to pick some produce depending on the season, frolic through fields of wildflowers, or visit the animals for some extra fun! 

Location: Pemberton, BC

Guest Count: Small to large capacity.

Accommodation: No accommodation available. 

Catering: Some catering options available.  

Best Season: Summer would be best for this venue! 

Vibe: Family-owned farm with sweeping mountain views and a friendly hospitality  

Sunwolf Riverside Resort

Situated along the Cheakamus River, Sunwolf has all of the amenities you could need to throw an intimate wedding. Fabulous catering by Fergie’s Cafe, on-site accommodation, and stunning ceremony sites, and a clear tent set-up for your reception just to name a few. Plus this Squamish wedding venue is dog friendly, a rare find in the Sea to Sky. Can you tell it’s undoubtedly one of my favourite places for an intimate wedding in the area?! 

Location: Squamish, BC

Guest Count: Small to medium capacity.

Accommodation: Year-round housing in the form of cabins are available. (The Logger’s Shack is my favourite!)

Catering: Onsite catering through Fergie’s Cafe.

Best Season: Spring, Summer, and Autumn are all magical, but my favourite is the fall time!

Vibe: Rustic summer camp/nature retreat, with a splash of luxury, all tucked away in the forest beside a rushing river, while close to all the amenities in Squamish!

Ancient Cedars Lodge

If you don’t want to venture too far from Whistler, Pemberton is a special little spot with gorgeous forests, mountain views, and plenty of space to explore. Ancient Cedars Lodge is a great example of the Pemberton vibe – quiet, serene, stunning. Wedding packages offer bridal suites, two night stays, and rehearsal space. End your wedding night with a dip in the hot tub and snacks by the fire! Sounds pretty good, yeah? 

Location: Pemberton, BC

Guest Count: Small capacity is best, can accommodate up to 75 guests. 

Accommodation: On-site housing in the lodge, space for 10 guests. 

Catering: No catering available. 

Best Season: Summer would be best for this venue! 

Vibe: Private lodge tucked into a serene cedar grove 

Cheakamus Centre

Calling all forest lovers! If you’re imagining a wedding deep in a forest, surrounded by the whimsical mossy trunks and sounds of nature all around, the Cheakamus Centre is your spot. With modern indoor options for rainy days and several epic spots for a ceremony set-up, this ecological reserve offers the best of both worlds. Check out this intimate Cheakamus Centre wedding on the blog for some inspiration for your own small wedding venue search! 

Location: Brackendale, BC (Squamish)

Guest Count: Small to large capacity.

Accommodation: Year-round housing in the form of cabins are available. 

Catering: Sustainable catering services available. 

Best Season: Summer is magical, but all seasons would work! 

Vibe: Outdoor education center and ecological preserve surrounding with magical forests and modern indoor facilities 

Whistler Blackcomb

Not only is it one of the largest ski resorts in North America, but it’s a fan favourite. If you want those epic mountain views, you know the ones that tourists come from all over the world for, Whistler Blackcomb surely delivers. Many opt for helicopter tours, but at this wedding venue in BC you can hop on the gondola and head straight to mountain peaks. No matter the time of year, you can explore the famous mountains of Whistler. Check out my blog on this beautiful Whistler Gondola Elopement for some inspiration!

Location: Whistler, BC

Guest Count: Small capacity, ideally less than 10 guests

Accommodation: Year-round housing at this high-end ski resort. 

Best Season: Winter is epic if you’re up for the cold, but summer is ideal for comfortable temperatures and sweeping views

Vibe: Popular ski resort with gondola to reach famous mountain peaks of Whistler & Blackcomb

Blackcomb Helicopters

There’s nothing like a Blackcomb Helicopter wedding! Glacial lakes, mountain peaks, memorable experiences – you get it all with these adventure enthusiasts! Flying out of Whistler, Pemberton, and Squamish, you can add a helicopter to your intimate wedding experience no matter where you’re hanging out on the ground. It’s a bit of an unconventional small wedding venue in BC, but it’s a crazy cool time. I personally can’t recommend Blackcomb Helis enough! Just to prove it to you, here’s a peek at what a helicopter elopement in Pemberton looks like! 

Location: Whistler & Pemberton, BC 

Guest Count: Small, 5-6 passengers (multiple heli flights available for more guests). 

Accommodation: No accommodation available.  

Catering: No catering, but snacks can be brought along! 

Best Season: All seasons! Though some seasons (fall, winter, & spring) are more likely to cause cancellations due to weather. 

Vibe: Top-rated helicopter elopement company serving up adventure from above the Sea to Sky

Sea to Sky Gondola

The Sea to Sky Gondola says it is where adventure and love unite. I’d agree with that! Overlooking the Howe Sound, it gives those picturesque BC views of coastal forests and epic mountainscapes. Plus they offer a wide variety of ceremony locations, all of which give great views, and bad weather options for that notorious rainy weather, too. Weekdays are best for this popular spot! And if you don’t want to use their event space as your venue, you can always take a ride to the top for portraits! 

Location: Squamish, BC 

Guest Count: Small to large capacity. 

Accommodation: No accommodation available.  

Catering: Yes! Specializing in contemporary west coast cuisine, they’re happy to cater to a wedding of any size. 

Best Season: All seasons! Though it is a popular spot, choose a weekday if you can! 

Vibe: Mountaintop event space with unbeatable views reached by a gondola ride  

Riverlands Equestrian Facility

At first glance, this rustic red barn is home to world class horse boarding and training, but take a peek into their space after it’s been transformed and you’d swear events were its main function. In the middle of a field in Pemberton, this massive private estate is a perfect timeless small wedding venue in BC! Where are my barn wedding people?? Riverlands Equestrian Facility is for you! 

Location: Pemberton, BC 

Guest Count: Small to large capacity. 

Accommodation: No accommodation available.  

Catering: No catering on-site, but reception space available. 

Best Season: All seasons! Though warm outdoor weddings might be best for guests.

Vibe: Elegant horse stable facility with classic red barn and major mountain views 

Whitecap Alpine

For the lovers of British Columbia’s backcountry only! This unique wedding venue sits tucked into the wilderness and can only be accessed by hiking or helicopter. The lodge does offer pre-arranged trips, perfect for an intimate wedding or elopement, that include helicopter rides and adventures exploring the area! Whitecap Alpine provides an experience unlike any you can find in the area. If you and your partner, and maybe even a few loved ones, are adventurous, outdoorsy, and love the backcountry, check them out! 

Location: Pemberton, BC 

Guest Count: Small, best for elopements. 

Accommodation: Lodging available at the main lodge and in multiple yurts!

Catering: The lodge’s full-time chef can whip up your wedding meal. 

Best Season: Summer with good weather! You must hike or heli to this location. 

Vibe: Unique backcountry lodge specializing in adventure with a splash of luxury 

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Best Small Wedding Venues in BC on the Sunshine Coast

West Coast Wilderness Lodge

This oceanfront venue sits high up on a bluff overlooking all of the beauty below! Naturally it’s an epic option for a small wedding venue in BC. West Coast Wilderness Lodge offers wedding and elopement packages, with dining and decor included, making it a truly full service venue! Paired with the Egmont Adventure Centre, they’ll happily add a bit of fun to your day with kayaking, jet skis, and more! 

Location: Egmont, BC 

Guest Count: Small to large capacity. 

Accommodation: Yes! Ocean View rooms, forest view suites, and more at this 26 room resort! 

Catering: Inlets Restaurant on-site will serve up a yummy meal as you enjoy the views of the water just off the deck! 

Best Season: Summer is ideal for this location. 

Vibe: Remote resort on a craggy bluff overlooking the ocean, forests, and mountains 

Nectar Yoga Retreat

Do you want to feel like you are in the middle of nowhere without actually being in the middle of nowhere? Bowen Island is a good spot for that. And Nectar Yoga Retreat is a little oasis in the trees with deluxe cottages, a geo-dome used for movement practices, and A-frames that give it a modern twist. Close by is the ocean and forest, but you’re away from the crowds. This truly is a sanctuary! Could it be your wedding venue, too? 

Location: Bowen Island, BC 

Guest Count: Small weddings only. 

Accommodation: Modern cottages, A-frames, and a main lodge. 

Catering: Vegetarian meals with locally grown ingredients. 

Best Season: Summer is ideal for this location. 

Vibe: Stunning yoga retreat center with modern architecture and centered in nature

Sunshine Coast Air

Okay okay so this isn’t technically a small wedding venue in BC. But just like our friends over at Blackcomb Helicopters, Sunshine Coast Air offers a truly unique way to explore BC! SEAPLANES! Hop in and fly up to alpine lakes, waterfalls, and gorges for a day you won’t soon forget. Some of the most magical places this region has to offer just can’t be reached by foot. You won’t regret taking to the skies and seeing just how gorgeous BC can get! 

Location: Sechelt, BC 

Guest Count: Small weddings and elopements. 

Accommodation: No accommodation, but they do partner with the West Coast Wilderness Lodge (we love that)! 

Catering: No catering options, but snacks and champagne are welcome!

Best Season: Summer is best for these destinations and flying weather! 

Vibe: Exploring alpine wilderness by seaplanes for a truly one-of-a-kind experience 

Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina

The ultimate place to get married if you like a mix of lavish luxury and scenic nature! If I were to list every amenity this resort has on its grounds, we’d be here awhile. So believe me when I tell you that there’s nothing this place can’t do! While on the more traditional side of venues, there is something to be said about the timeless elegance the Painted Boat Resort brings as a wedding venue! Plus its location in an endearing small marina town gives it a slow weekend getaway vibe. 

Location: Madeira Park, BC 

Guest Count: Small weddings. 

Accommodation: All 31 villas have waterfront views. 

Catering: The Lagoon Restaurant on-site with options for private catering as well. 

Best Season: Summertime on the water can’t be beat! 

Vibe: World class spa on the water with upscale villas and fine dining 

Backeddy Resort and Marina

At the very end of the Sunshine Coast, Backeddy Resort and Marina sits quietly surrounded by the magic of the rainforest on the coast. Get married on the waterfront, take a canoe out for portraits, sip celebratory drinks by the fire pit, and then go surfing on the Skookumchuck Narrows the next day. It’s the perfect spot to unplug, say I Do, and enjoy the coast of BC with the ones you love most! 

Location: Egmont, BC 

Guest Count: Up to 50 people. 

Accommodation: Waterfront cabins, geodesic domes, and an Inn to house you and your guests!

Catering: On-site chef cooking up oceanside feasts

Best Season: Sweet summertime is a dream. 

Vibe: Relaxing remote resort with luxury accommodation and adventures on the water

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Best Small Wedding Venues in BC in the Lower Mainland

Stanley Park Teahouse

Have you ever thought how amazing it would be to have a venue in nature but close to downtown Vancouver? Say no more because the Stanley Park Teahouse really does exist and it is perfect for small weddings. Situated in the park itself, the Teahouse is close to the ocean/beach but also across the street from the park’s evergreen forest which will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the middle of nowhere. The food is outstanding and done in-house so you don’t have to get a caterer, plus they have several spaces available depending on your guest list. Plus, the restaurant has outstanding natural light, making it both a photographer’s dream and giving peace of mind when it comes to the weather.

Location: Vancouver, BC 

Guest Count: 30-70 guests (ideal for 20-50 people)

Accommodation: No accommodation on site, but close to downtown! 

Catering: Menu options from the restaurant itself.

Best Season: Anytime of year! (Best in Spring & Fall)

Vibe: Elevated vintage garden feel

Greenhouse Venue

A microwedding dream! This wood-framed greenhouse lets in all of the natural light, while shading you from whatever weather craziness Vancouver is serving that day! Leave the space simple or cover every inch in decor, either way it’s an adorable spot. Imagine a candlelit dinner with your closest family and friends, listening to the sound of rain hitting the glass above. Romantic, yeah?!

Location: Abbotsford, BC 

Guest Count: Up to 24 people, ideal for up to 16 people.

Accommodation: No accommodation on site. 

Catering: No catering provided, but there is space for a dinner reception! 

Best Season: Fall or winter weather in this space would be dreamy! 

Vibe: Whimsical greenhouse space for romantic microweddings 

American Creek Lodge

This one is a bit outside of Vancouver, but I couldn’t skip it on this list! With stunning views of Fraser River, this small wedding venue in BC will quickly become a favourite! A three-tiered deck, well-equipped event space, and remote feel not too far from the city, American Creek Lodge is a true hidden gem. 

Location: Hope, BC 

Guest Count: 20-30 guests would be ideal. 

Accommodation: Accommodation for up to 14 people. 

Catering: No catering provided, but there is space for a dinner reception! 

Best Season: All year round. 

Vibe: New intimate wedding venue in the Fraser Valley with river and mountain views  

Bloedel Conservatory

Did you want to get married in the tropics but didn’t want the hassle of travelling? Or do you love greenery/nature but don’t want to risk the rain? Bloedel can easily answer both of those needs! Though anyone can visit, the conservatory offers private events after or before the place opens, meaning you’ll have the place to yourself for an intimate ceremony. However, beware that a lot of their opening hours go past sunset and you’ll be left in the dark, so make sure to check the sunset time, or easier, go with a date in one of the months I’ve listed below. This isn’t a space for a reception/dinner, but the Seasons Restaurant across the road is the perfect place to go right afterwards for dinner!

Location: Vancouver, BC 

Guest Count: Up to 50 people total (Ideal for 20 or less).

Accommodation: No lodging available. 

Catering: No food or beverage permitted (space used for ceremony only)

Best Season: End of March, April, May, June, September, & beginning of October.

Vibe: Tropical Paradise with greenery, flowers, and birds everywhere!

Sky Helicopters

Be whisked away to the wilderness with Sky Helicopters! I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again… British Columbia has so much to explore, sometimes you need some wings! If you’re in the Vancouver area, this is the perfect option to add more adventure to your wedding day. There’s nothing more intimate than promising forever to your love completely secluded in Mother Nature! Check out this blog post for more inspiration for your Sky Helicopters wedding! 

Location: Pitt Meadows with options for pick up in Vancouver, BC 

Guest Count: Up to 8 people total.  

Accommodation: No lodging available. 

Catering: No catering, but picnics and beverages are always welcome! 

Best Season: Summer is the best time to fly! 

Vibe: Adventure wedding specialists reaching unique destinations by helicopter 

L'Abattoir

We all know and love the historic charm of Gastown in downtown Vancouver. So if exposed brick, upscale dining, and intimate spaces are your thing, L’Abattoir restaurant is worth checking into. When I tell you it’s phenomenal, I mean it. The location can’t be beat and would allow for some sweet urban portraits if Vancouver is a sentimental spot for you and your partner. Plus as a wedding photographer, I have to mention their drool-worthy natural light! 

Location: Gastown, Vancouver, BC 

Guest Count: Small capacity of around 40 people, less than 20 guests would be ideal

Accommodation: No accommodation. 

Catering: The best dang food around. 

Best Season: All seasons are welcome as this is an indoor space!  

Vibe: Upscale dining experience in historic downtown with unmatched cocktails and wine pairings 

Brix & Mortar

If you’re looking for a seasoned venue downtown with amazing food, Brix & Mortar is the perfect pick. Its hidden courtyard with a tall glass ceiling and ivy-covered brick walls makes for a unique setting that can’t be matched anywhere else in the city. It gives the visual appeal of being outdoors, without the varying temps and chance of rain that comes along with being outside. Just a note to be aware of the sunset time of your wedding date, as they have restricted hours for ceremonies and it may mean a different lighting experience.

Location: Yaletown, Vancouver, BC 

Guest Count: Up to 90 guests but 10-30 is ideal.

Accommodation: No accommodation. 

Catering: Amazing restaurant catering that will create a night to remember!

Best Season: All seasons are welcome as this is an indoor space!  

Vibe: Vintage, yet elevated dining experience in the historic part of Yaletown.

Giggster

This is definitely not a venue, but it is an incredibly useful website to find event spaces in larger cities! Vancouver happens to be one on their list. You can find perfect spaces to transform into your very own small wedding venue in BC! These are great if you are looking for a blank slate to take on your decor or style, as well as options for any budget! I photographed a wedding in an old building downtown Vancouver that was rented through Giggster and it was a blast! 

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Best Small Wedding Venues in BC in the Interior

Manning Park Resort

From the sweetest private spot in Alpine Meadows to larger sites like Lightning Lake, you can’t beat E.C. Manning Provincial Park! Manning Park Resort offers all-inclusive wedding packages for elopements all the way to large weddings. This is truly one of the most special spots in the Interior and it’s actually where I got engaged. Plus it’s only 3 hours from Vancouver! Want some inspiration? Check out this Alpine Meadows engagement session and Manning Park elopement

Location: Manning Park, BC 

Guest Count: Small capacity to large capacity (up to 140 guests) (ideally less than 10 guests for a ceremony in the alpine)

Accommodation: Both resort rooms and camping options at this stunning spot! 

Catering: Catering on site! From buffets to midnight snacks.  

Best Season: All seasons! From wildflower filled summers to snowy winters. (alpine only available in the summer and early fall)

Vibe: Year round resort with upscale and camping options in the stunning Manning Park

Island Lake Lodge

Step into a valley filled with Cedar, Spruce, and Douglas Fir, and soak in everything this remote lodge small wedding venue in BC has to offer. From a fine-dining experience to legendary skiing options to an on-site spa, this little slice of paradise is a treat. Want an all-inclusive wedding weekend package? They’ve got that, too. 

Location: Fernie, BC 

Guest Count: Small capacity to large capacity.

Accommodation: Variety of traditional mountain lodges for your stay! 

Catering: Locally sourced food transformed into a fine-dining experience with on-site chefs.

Best Season: Closed from public access from October through June due to road closures. So in winter time (only the month of April), you must take a snow cat to the site! 

Vibe: Remote resort in the Canadian Rockies with traditional, yet upscale mountain lodges 

Emerald Lake Lodge

Close to the border of Alberta, this well-known lodge sits on a famous lake for its jade-coloured waters. If that isn’t enough to get you excited about this one, trust me when they say they offer quite the experience! Priding themselves as an unplugged resort, this secluded spot offers spectacular views for your wedding day. With an elopement package available, you can choose to run off to get married in the mountains, just the two of you! 

Location: Field, BC 

Guest Count: Small capacity to large capacity.

Accommodation: 24 cabin-style buildings are available to stay! 

Catering: Fine dining and wine menus won’t leave you disappointed. 

Best Season: Skiing and sleigh riding in the winter, rafting and hiking in the summer! All seasons work for this lodge. 

Vibe: Homey lodge secluded in the Rockies sitting on the shores of an emerald-coloured lake in Yoho National Park

Eagle Pass Lodge

The benefits of getting married at Eagle Pass Lodge seem endless. In-house, top-notch catering? Check. On-site lodging? Check. A helicopter-pad with helicopter packages? CHECK. What more could you really want? Nestled just outside of Revelstoke, this venue gives the benefits of being close to town while having the feeling of being tucked away. With all it offers, you might not even need to leave the property! However, if you do decide to venture, Revelstoke offers a quaint riverside town, several National Parks nearby for exploring, as well as a highly esteemed ski resort perfect for summer and winter activities.

Location: Revelstoke, BC 

Guest Count: Ideally for 20-50 Guests

Accommodation: On-site lodging is available for up to 24 people.

Catering: Excellent chef and catering staff in-house.

Best Season: Best for summer & fall.

Vibe: Modern mountain boutique hotel with mountain and forest views.

Bull River Guest Ranch

Searching for an intimate spot deep in nature with plenty of outdoor space, incredible views, and warm hospitality? Bull River Guest Ranch checks all of those boxes. With no wifi at all, the ranch prides itself on focusing on the connection between each other, rather than to the outside world. A mix of rural and upscale, this small wedding venue in BC offers incredible ceremony locations with fields, rivers, and mountains to explore for epic portraits. 

Location: Cranbrook, BC 

Guest Count: Small capacity to medium capacity, up to 150 guests.

Accommodation: Various cabin stays offer sleeping room for up to 64 guests.

Catering: No catering options on-site. 

Best Season: Open year round, so weddings in any season are welcome!

Vibe: Unplugged ranch with a rustic luxury appeal sitting on 200 acres of historic land with views of the Canadian Rockies 

Cathedral Mountain Lodge

Is this just a log cabin in the woods or is it a luxurious yet homey resort nestled in the popular Yoho National Park just minutes from Lake Louise? If you and your partner want to escape to the picturesque views of BC, this location will make you very happy. From fine-dining and beautiful rooms to Glacier tours and horseback riding, with Cathedral Mountain Lodge you don’t have to choose between nature, luxury, and a peaceful wedding getaway. 

Location: Field, BC 

Guest Count: Very small capacity - Ideally for up to 10 guests.

Accommodation: 31 log cabins are available to choose from for your getaway! 

Catering: Award-winning dining options on-site! 

Best Season: Open year round, so weddings in any season are welcome!

Vibe: Picturesque mountain lodge at the base of the Rockies just minutes from the infamous Lake Louise 

God’s Mountain Estate

You’ll be asking yourself “is this a small wedding venue in BC or the Mediterranean?” Okanagan County is a refreshingly different type of scenery compared to the other stunning views in BC. Instead of jagged mountainscapes, the rolling hills of vineyards and orchards will transport you to a far off southern European land. And God’s Mountain Estate matches the vibe with their architecture and open-air style accommodation! You don’t have to be a mountain lover to get married in BC! There are sunny, warm pockets after all. 

Location: Penticton, BC 

Guest Count: Small to medium capacity, maximum of 45 guests. 

Accommodation: A penthouse, roofless rooms (swoon!), and rooms with views, you’ll sleep soundly here.

Catering: No catering options listed, but a beautiful outdoor mediterranean kitchen! 

Best Season: Open year round, so weddings in any season are welcome!

Vibe: Tranquil and elegant European-style estate with lake and vineyard views 

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Don’t sleep on Golden, BC! With all of the charm and whimsy of a British Columbian mountain town like Whistler or Banff, but without the busy crowds. Boasting it’s claim to fame as the highest mountain venue in Canada, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort offers mountain top wedding packages that will surely add some wow factor to your day. 

Location: Golden, BC 

Guest Count: Small to medium capacity, with elopement and traditional wedding packages. 

Accommodation: Countless lodging options will give you plenty of variety at this massive resort. 

Catering: A variety of catering options from canapes to full dinners. 

Best Season: Open year round, so weddings in any season are welcome!

Vibe: Large resort with views of mountain peaks from five national parks and all amenities you could want 

Looking for a winter elopement? Check out Miranda & Steve’s gorgeous Kicking Horse Mountain Resort winter elopement!

Did I miss one of your favourite small wedding venues in BC?

Please let me know! I would love to continue to add to this list and share it as a resource for you as you plan your mountain elopement, intimate wedding ceremony, and more in the beautifully wild BC! 

And if you’ve found your perfect wedding venue, but still need a photographer to capture your day? It’d be my honour to help you explore this incredible region. Fill out the form below and we’ll get to it!

Did you find your perfect small wedding venue in BC?

I can’t wait to hear all about it!

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