Just starting to plan your dream wedding on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada? This stunning and romantic location offers unmatched natural beauty, intimate venues, and unforgettable experiences for all your favourite people. Whether you’re hosting a destination wedding, or you’re a Vancouver Island local, you’re going to find tons of tips to help you with your wedding planning here!
This guide will walk you through actionable tips to plan your perfect day while making the process as seamless as possible ❤️
Photo taken at a Jordan River elopement
1. Choose the Right Venue
Vancouver Island, BC, Canada offers a wide range of venues, from rustic vineyards to elegant waterfront resorts. Whether you’re looking for a spot close to Victoria, or somewhere else on the island, you’ve got lots of incredible options. When selecting your venue, consider:
- Guest Count: Ensure the space can comfortably accommodate your number of guests. Decide on intimate wedding vs. wild party!
- Season: Some venues shine best in specific seasons. For instance, gardens like those of Hatley Castle are lush and vibrant in the spring and summer.
- Ambiance: Decide whether you want a natural outdoor setting or a luxurious indoor celebration (or maybe a bit of both!).
Some Top Picks:
- The Wickaninnish Inn (Tofino): Perfect for iconic West Coast beach weddings and elopements.
- Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse (Saanich, close to Victoria): Ideal for a forest ceremony and beautiful reception space.
- Black Rock Oceanfront Resort (Ucluelet): A dramatic coastal backdrop for your portraits.
- Stone Bridge Island Farm (Salt Spring Island, Gulf Islands): A rustic getaway that your guests will love.
Looking for more information on Vancouver Island Wedding Venues? Check out The Top 20 Wedding Venues in Victoria, BC or Vancouver Island’s Top Wedding Venues: Styles & Costs
2. Hire Local Vendors
Local vendors are not only familiar with the area’s unique charm but can also save you the stress of logistics.
- Wedding Photographer: Find someone experienced with capturing Vancouver Island’s natural light and landscapes.
Shameless plug – that’s me! 🥰 - Florist: Many local florists specialize in creating arrangements inspired by the island’s flora.
- Caterer: Opt for a menu that highlights local ingredients and sustainable sources.
Pro Tip: Look for reviews from other newlyweds to ensure they align with your vision.
3. Plan for Weather Variability
The island’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the shoulder seasons. To prepare:
- Rent tents or canopies for outdoor venues.
- Choose a backup indoor location.
- Provide cozy extras like blankets or shawls for guests.
Photo taken at Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse
4. Leverage the Island’s Natural Beauty
Vancouver Island is a photographer’s dream. Consider these ideas to highlight the scenery:
- Ceremony Locations: Say your vows under towering trees or on a sandy beach. Make your ceremony site unforgettable.
- Photo Sessions: Plan photo stops close by your venue, to give your portraits lots of variety.
- Decor: Incorporate driftwood, seashells, and wildflowers to tie your theme to the island’s aesthetic.
5. Create a Wedding Weekend Itinerary
Turn your wedding into a weekend-long celebration by planning activities for your guests:
- Friday: Host a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine.
- Saturday Morning: Suggest whale watching or hiking for adventurous guests.
- Sunday Brunch: End with a relaxed farewell gathering at a local restaurant.
6. Sustainability Matters
Honor the island’s natural beauty by making eco-friendly choices in your wedding planning:
- Use biodegradable or reusable decorations.
- Choose local, in-season flowers and food.
- Partner with vendors who share sustainable values.
Read more eco-friendly wedding tips here!
Photo taken at an East Sooke Park elopement
7. Plan Your Timeline Thoughtfully
To ensure a smooth day:
- Portraits: Schedule time during the golden hour (the hour before sunset) for dreamy vibes.
- Reception: Allow enough time in your big day for mingling, dining, and dancing.
- Buffer Time: Build in extra time for wedding day travel or unexpected delays.
Sample Timeline:
| Time | Event |
| 3:00 PM | Guest Arrival |
| 3:30 PM | Ceremony Start |
| 4:15 PM | Cocktail Hour |
| 5:30 PM | Dinner Service |
| 7:00 PM | Speeches and Toasts |
| 8:00 PM | First Dance |
| 9:00 PM | Dance Floor Opens |
| 11:00 PM | Farewell |
8. Work with a Vancouver Island Wedding Planner
Hiring a wedding planner with experience on Vancouver Island can make your day stress-free. They can:
- Coordinate with local vendors.
- Manage the timeline.
- Troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Here are a few of my favourite planners in Victoria and on the island:
- Rock, Paper, Square
- Function Design House
- The Good Party
- Details BC
- Blue Lily Event Planning
- Fêtes by Linda
9. Add Personal Touches
Make your wedding truly yours with unique details:
- Guest Favors: Give out locally made keepsakes like artisanal soaps or small jars of jam.
- Custom Signage: Incorporate calligraphy with meaningful quotes or West Coast inspired doodles.
- Special Moments: Plan a private first look or a personal vow exchange before the ceremony.
Photo taken during golden hour at Dallas Road Beach
10. Book Accommodations Early
With Vancouver Island being a popular destination, accommodations fill up quickly, especially during peak wedding season (May – September). Block rooms at a nearby hotel or suggest cozy Airbnb options for your guests.
11. Communicate with Your Guests
Help your guests feel prepared:
- Wedding Website: Create a website with travel tips, itinerary, and dress code information.
- Invitations: Include a guide to local attractions.
Final Thoughts
Planning a wedding on Vancouver Island doesn’t have to be a headache! By highlighting the island’s natural beauty, partnering with experienced local vendors, and adding West Coast touches, you can create a celebration that you and your guests will talk about fondly for years to come. Happy planning!
Ready to start planning your Vancouver Island wedding? Let’s connect to chat about capturing your love story through timeless and stunning photos ❤️
FAQ Section: Planning a Wedding on Vancouver Island
1. What are the best wedding venues on Vancouver Island?
Vancouver Island offers a wide range of venues for your dream wedding. Some top picks include:
- The Wickaninnish Inn (Tofino): Perfect for iconic West Coast beach weddings.
- Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse (Saanich): Ideal for a forest ceremony with a scenic reception space.
- Black Rock Oceanfront Resort (Ucluelet): Offers dramatic coastal backdrops for stunning photos.
Consider your guest count, the season, and the ambiance you want when choosing your venue.
2. How do I choose local vendors for my Vancouver Island wedding?
Local vendors know the area’s unique charm and can simplify logistics. Key vendors to book include:
- Photographers: Choose one experienced in capturing Vancouver Island’s natural light and beauty.
- Florists: Many local florists create arrangements inspired by the island’s flora.
- Caterers: Opt for menus featuring fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
Check reviews and portfolios to ensure they align with your vision.
3. What should I know about Vancouver Island’s weather for my wedding?
The weather can be unpredictable, especially during shoulder seasons. To prepare:
- Rent tents or canopies for outdoor venues.
- Choose a backup indoor location.
- Provide cozy extras like blankets or shawls for your guests.
Planning for weather variability ensures a seamless celebration regardless of conditions.
4. How can I incorporate Vancouver Island’s natural beauty into my wedding?
Highlight the island’s stunning scenery with these ideas:
- Ceremony Locations: Exchange vows on a sandy beach or under towering trees.
- Photo Sessions: Plan portrait stops near your venue for a variety of scenic backdrops.
- Decor: Use driftwood, seashells, and wildflowers for a West Coast aesthetic.
5. What activities can I plan for a wedding weekend on Vancouver Island?
Turn your wedding into a weekend celebration with activities like:
- Friday: Welcome dinner featuring local cuisine.
- Saturday Morning: Whale watching or hiking for adventurous guests.
- Sunday: Farewell brunch at a cozy local restaurant.
A curated itinerary ensures a memorable experience for you and your guests.
