The Best Wedding Venues in BC: From Luxe Lodges to DIY Dreamscapes

Finding the perfect wedding venue? No pressure or anything—it’s just the backdrop to one of the most memorable days of your life! But don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxe lodge, a DIY haven, or an intimate micro-wedding spot, BC is brimming with stunning venues. Let’s dive in!

All-Inclusive Venues: Just Show Up and Get Married (Okay, Almost)

All-inclusive wedding venues offer comprehensive packages that typically encompass venue rental, catering, staffing, and often additional services such as décor and coordination. These venues are ideal for couples seeking a streamlined planning process with minimal logistical concerns.

Fraser River Lodge

Nestled along the shores of the Fraser River in Agassiz, Fraser River Lodge brings luxury and nature together in a way that says, “Yes, you can have both.” With 18 acres of private property, you’ll have indoor and outdoor ceremony option, and lots of photo spots with jaw-dropping views of Mount Cheam. The venue accommodates up to 200 guests so whether you’re planning an intimate affair or a full-blown celebration, there’s a package to match your vibe (and budget). Bonus: The lodge’s setting is so stunning that Mother Nature basically does your decorating for you.

Stanley Park Pavilion

Located in the heart of Vancouver’s iconic Stanley Park, the Stanley Park Pavilion combines historical charm with natural beauty. The Lord Stanley Ballroom, adorned with vintage glass chandeliers, can seat up to 180 guests or accommodate 250 for standing receptions. The venue offers tailored wedding packages that include catering, event coordination, and access to beautifully landscaped gardens for ceremonies and photographs.

Nita Lake Lodge: A Lakeside Dream in Whistler

If a serene mountain wedding with lakeside views and all the cozy vibes sounds like your dream, Nita Lake Lodge is calling your name. This Whistler gem offers all-inclusive packages covering ceremony and reception spaces, catering, accommodations, and even spa services (because pre-wedding massages are definitely a necessity). Think rustic charm meets modern luxury—ideal for couples who want breathtaking scenery with a side of relaxation.

DIY Wedding Venues: Freedom, Flexibility & A Little Extra Planning

For the hands-on couple who loves a personal touch, DIY venues are where it’s at. These spaces let you bring your Pinterest board to life, choosing your own vendors and curating every last detail. Just keep in mind that with great power comes great responsibility—a.k.a. more logistics to juggle!

The Polygon Gallery (North Vancouver)

Modern, sleek, and right on the waterfront, The Polygon Gallery is a contemporary art space that serves as a stylish blank canvas for your big day. With room for up to 180 guests, it allows for external catering and décor, giving you total creative freedom. Bonus: the stunning ocean and city views do half the decorating for you.

The Wallace

For those who love an industrial-chic aesthetic, The Wallace is a total knockout. Exposed beams, polished concrete floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows with harbor views? Yes, please! With space for up to 200 guests and the ability to bring in your preferred vendors, it’s a dream for couples who want a flexible, stylish space to make their own.

Micro Wedding Venues (Under 40 Guests)

For couples considering an intimate celebration with fewer than 40 guests, micro wedding venues offer cozy settings that emphasize personal connections and detailed attention.

Greenhouse Venue

Tucked away in lush greenery, this venue is perfect for couples who want a nature-filled, whimsical atmosphere for their micro wedding. Indoor and outdoor options make it easy to tailor to your vision, whether that’s an open-air dinner under the stars or a cozy candlelit affair.

L’Abattoir

If you’re a foodie couple (hello, kindred spirits!), L’Abattoir is an absolute gem. This Gastown favorite blends French-inspired West Coast cuisine with a charming, intimate setting. Their private dining room is perfect for small weddings, offering curated menus and top-tier service. Think elegant yet relaxed—chef’s kiss!

Private Residence vs. Formal Venue: The Showdown

Can’t decide between hosting your wedding at home or booking a venue? Let’s break it down:

Private Residence

✅ Personalization—You get full creative control. Want your dog as the ring bearer? Go for it. Backyard fireworks? Why not!
✅ Cost Savings (maybe)—No venue fees = more budget for food, florals, and fun extras. But there’s also the whole… building an entire venue from scratch part, which can go from $ to $$$ pretty quickly.
✅ Intimacy—A home setting creates a cozy, familiar atmosphere.
❌ Logistics—Even with a professional Wedding Coordinator (who often will charge more for backyard weddings since they are way more work), managing rentals, parking, and (ugh) cleanup is no small task.
❌ Space Limits—Not every backyard is built for a 100-person dance party, not every lawn is flat enough for a dinner, and once we start talking about septic systems… forget about it!
❌ Noise & Regulations—Your neighbours might not love a live band at midnight.

Formal Venue

✅ Built-in Amenities—Restrooms, parking, climate control, power, furniture… an actual roof… need we say more?
✅ Staff Support—Setup, service, and cleanup? Handled.
✅ Wedding Know-How—Venues have done this before and can help guide the process. It might be your Big Day, but for the venue, this is their Monday.
❌ Cost—More structure often means a higher price tag upfront.
❌ Vendor Restrictions—Some venues have preferred vendors, limiting your choices.

So, Where’s the Perfect Spot for You?

Whether you’re drawn to the ease of an all-inclusive venue (hello, spa day at Nita Lake!), the creative freedom of a DIY space, or the charm of a micro wedding, BC is full of stunning options to match your vibe.

At the end of the day, the perfect venue is the one that feels right for you. So dream big, trust your gut, and let’s make some wedding magic happen! ✨

Looking for expert planning help? That’s where we come in. 😉 Let’s chat about how we can bring your wedding vision to life—without the stress!

Transform Your Wedding into a Multi-Day Retreat

What’s a Retreat Wedding, You Ask?

Turn your wedding into a multi-day retreat! When you think of your wedding day, you might picture a picture-perfect scene brimming with love, laughter, and maybe a little dancing on tables (we don’t judge!). But what if that celebration could last more than just one day? Say hello to the Retreat Wedding! This fabulous concept turns your special day into a multi-day adventure packed with fun, connection, and an endless supply of happy memories.

A Retreat Wedding is like the love child of a destination wedding and a full-service planning extravaganza. It creates a delightful experience for you and your guests, allowing everyone to sip cocktails and share joyful moments at a leisurely pace. It’s not just one day of “I do’s”—it’s a whole weekend (or more!) of love, laughter, and togetherness!

The Retreat Wedding Experience

Imagine your favourite people gathered in the most stunning location, sharing delicious meals, diving into fun activities, and bonding in ways that a single day just can’t allow. Your Retreat Wedding could be bursting with:

Welcome Events: Kick things off with a cocktail bash or a relaxed dinner—let the good times roll!
Group Activities: Picture yoga sessions, scenic hikes, or even a lively cooking class where chaos is inevitable and totally charming.
Moments to Chill: Indulge in spa treatments or take leisurely mornings to sip coffee and soak in all the love (and maybe a mimosa or two!).
The Main Event: Your wedding day—the pièce de résistance of your multi-day celebration!

With a Retreat Wedding, your guests will feel cherished, and you’ll have oodles of time to connect with everyone who matters most!

Why Consider a Retreat Wedding?

Savour Every Moment

You know how weddings can feel like a whirlwind? One minute you’re walking down the aisle, and the next, it’s time to say goodbye. A Retreat Wedding lets you slow your roll and truly soak in the joy, turning your day into a magical tapestry of moments instead of a sprint to the finish line.

Gift Your Guests an Experience

Your friends and family will absolutely adore you for gifting them a getaway filled with connection and fun! It’s a fabulous opportunity to step away from the daily grind, deepen relationships, and create unforgettable memories together. Who needs a boring old wedding when you can hand out adventures?

Create Lasting Memories in Gorgeous Places

Whether it’s a cozy mountain lodge or a chic beach villa, your Retreat Wedding backdrop can be as unique as your love story. Imagine breathtaking views and unforgettable scenery enhancing every laugh, toast, and dance!

The Thistle & Thorne Approach to Retreat Weddings

Tailored Planning Just for You

At Thistle & Thorne, we specialize in crafting fun, personalized Retreat Weddings that reflect your unique love story. From finding the perfect venue to filling your schedule with meaningful—and totally enjoyable—activities, we take care of all the nitty-gritty details, so you can just focus on having the time of your life!

Partnerships with Rockstar Vendors

We’ve got a fabulous network of trusted vendors ready to make your dream wedding come true—think exquisite catering that’ll leave your guests drooling and skilled photographers who’ll capture every magical moment. We’ve got your back!

Eco-Conscious Choices

Want to throw an unforgettable bash while being kind to Mother Earth? We offer eco-friendly options that’ll help you minimize your wedding’s carbon footprint. Just ask us about venues, catering, and décor that align with your values!

How to Plan Your Retreat Wedding

Step 1: Find Your Dream Location

The venue is where the magic begins! Think about where your heart wants to be—whether it’s a tranquil mountain lodge, a picturesque countryside estate, or a beachside paradise. 

Check out our favourite wedding venues in Vancouver!

Step 2: Curate Multi-Day Activities

Don’t just say “I do”—create a whole weekend of activities that’ll bring your loved ones together for epic fun! From outdoor escapades to creative workshops, these shared experiences will leave everyone buzzing with joy.

Step 3: Partner with an Experienced Planner

Partnering with a savvy wedding planner means you can kick back and relax while the magic happens. At Thistle and Thorne Weddings, we’ll guide you through every step, from the first brainstorming session to the not-to-be-missed farewell brunch. 

Real-Life Retreat Wedding Inspiration

Connie and Nikhil’s Epic Mountain Bash

Tucked away in the breathtaking Rockies of Pemberton, Connie and Nikhil’s Retreat Wedding was nothing short of a spectacular celebration that was bursting with fun!

• Chic Glamping Options: Onsite glamping tents from Wild Havens Glamping and plush indoor accommodations for guests who crave a bit of luxury. Camping just got an upgrade!
• Dreamy Welcome Dinner: The festivities kicked off with an enchanting Indian welcome dinner, complete with traditional dancing that had everyone hitting the dance floor—seriously, who can resist a good boogie?
• Group Breakfast Awesomeness: Mornings were filled with delicious group breakfasts where all the guests came together to fuel up for the day ahead.
• Sari Draping Extravaganza: Every guest was pampered with sari draping, making it a fantastic treat that celebrated diverse backgrounds and brought everyone together in style!
• Nature-Inspired Ceremony: The couple exchanged vows in an immersive ceremony framed by towering peaks—talk about a breathtaking backdrop!
• Traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony: They added a lovely touch by incorporating a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony to share their rich heritage with all their guests.
• Adventure Awaits: From crafting and cooking classes to local hikes and refreshing river dips, everyone enjoyed the best of what Pemberton had to offer. It was a true treat for all the international guests—adventure much?

This wedding wasn’t just an event; it was a dazzling multi-day experience that left everyone with unforgettable memories! 

Ready to Make Magic Happen?

A Retreat Wedding is more than just a celebration; it’s an incredible journey that brings your loved ones together in a beautiful, immersive way. With picturesque locations, unforgettable activities, and loads of opportunities to connect, your special day can transform into something truly extraordinary.

If you’re ready to swap the traditional wedding rush for a more relaxed and joyful experience, we’re here to help you every step of the way at Thistle and Thorne Weddings. Let’s create a one-of-a-kind Retreat Wedding that reflects your unique love story and ensures every moment is cherished! 

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s start planning the wedding adventure of your dreams! Reach out today, and let the magic begin!

Unplugged Weddings: Why Asking Guests to Ditch Their Phones Makes for Better Photos

Weddings are a celebration of everything you’ve already built together, and the next chapter you’re excited to write—side by side. They’re filled with so much love, joy, and celebration. But as technology keeps creeping into every part of our lives, one thing that’s becoming a bit more offbeat is the request for an unplugged wedding. In a world where everyone’s glued to their phones, asking guests to put them away during certain moments can actually elevate your experience—and your photos.

An unplugged wedding isn’t just about reducing screen time (though we are here for that). It’s about creating space for deep emotional connection and ensuring that your photographer gets to capture those pure, unfiltered moments. So, let’s dive into how this can make your wedding day that much more magical, while keeping everyone focused on what matters most.

The Impact of Phones on Wedding Photography

Distracting Devices in Candid Moments

We all know a good wedding photographer can catch the most heartwarming, emotional moments—and that’s exactly why we don’t want phones getting in the way. Imagine your guests with their phones held up like little barricades, blocking the view of the tears, the joy, the “I do’s.” Phones also tend to add that slightly less-than-charming glow, so those “candid” shots sometimes end up looking more like everyone’s trying to catch the best selfie than a once-in-a-lifetime memory.

Missed Emotional Engagement

When guests are busy taking photos or videos, they often miss out on the real magic of the moment—your vows, that first kiss, the surprise tears of happiness from your best friend. A phone in the hand is a distraction to the heart, and it can make those heartfelt moments feel a little less… well, heartfelt. Plus, when they’re looking down, you don’t get those beautiful, emotional expressions in your photos.

Hindered Professional Shots

Wedding photographers are experts in capturing the tiniest details: the way the sun hits your dress, the tear on your partner’s cheek, that fleeting glance. But when your guests are crowding the aisle with their cameras, it’s harder for photographers to get those perfect shots. Plus, phones—especially when everyone’s popping their flash on—can mess with the vibe your pro photographer is trying to create.

Why Unplugged Ceremonies Enhance Wedding Photography

A Clear View for Your Photographer

When guests keep their phones tucked away, your photographer has an unobstructed view of every important moment. This allows for clean, natural shots without any awkward distractions, like arms in the air or screens glowing in the background. With clear access to the action, your photographer can fully capture the beauty and emotion of your day. Your wedding album will reflect the true magic of the celebration in a way that’s uninterrupted by technology—and that’s something you’ll cherish forever.Genuine Emotions Captured
When everyone is fully present, the real emotions of your day shine through in your photos. Instead of people lost in their screens, you’ll see pure smiles, real laughter, and heartfelt tears that speak to the true essence of the moment. This level of engagement helps capture the energy and authenticity that make your wedding so special. These are the kinds of images that will truly tell the story of your love.A Clean, Timeless Aesthetic
Imagine looking back at your wedding photos in 20 years—do you want to see smartphones in every shot? An unplugged ceremony ensures your photos have a timeless, elegant feel, free from the modern distractions of technology. Without the interruption of glowing screens or arms holding up cameras, your album will look classic and beautiful. You’ll always be able to remember your wedding as a day where everyone was present and focused on what really matters.

Preserving the Experience for Guests

Building an Emotional Connection

When guests aren’t glued to their phones, they’re fully immersed in the moment. This allows them to connect with you on a deeper level, witness your vows, and celebrate the beauty of the day without the separation of a screen. It also creates a shared emotional connection among everyone involved, which is a memory that sticks far longer than any snapshot on a phone.

Reducing Stress for the Couple

As a couple, you deserve to relax and soak in every second of your wedding day. But when everyone’s preoccupied with getting the best shot, you might find yourself stressed about photo-bombing, awkward flashes, or people constantly moving around for the perfect picture. With an unplugged ceremony, you can focus on each other and the people you love—without worrying about whether someone is blocking your photographer.

Encouraging Meaningful Interaction

Without screens in the way, guests can engage with one another more authentically. They can chat, laugh, and really enjoy each other’s company—rather than staring at their phones. This is the kind of energy that translates beautifully into your wedding photos, too.

How to Communicate the Unplugged Request to Guests

Start Early with Invitations

It’s helpful to set expectations right from the start—let your guests know about your unplugged ceremony in the invitations. Something as simple as, “We kindly request an unplugged ceremony to fully enjoy this moment with us” can do wonders.

Use Signage at the Venue

When your guests arrive, a clear and friendly sign at the entrance to the ceremony can serve as a gentle reminder. Try something like: “Please join us in being present by turning off your devices. Let’s enjoy this moment together.”

Have the Officiant Make an Announcement

Your officiant can make a brief announcement at the start of the ceremony, too. A simple, “The couple has requested a phone-free ceremony so we can all enjoy this moment to the fullest,” will do the trick!

Provide Alternatives for Sharing Memories

Assure your guests that they won’t miss out on capturing memories by explaining you’ve hired a pro photographer to take care of all the shots. Let them know they’ll be able to see and share those memories later on.

Frame the Request Positively

Focus on the benefits, like: “We want to create an experience where everyone can be fully present, and your presence truly means the world to us. No distractions, just pure celebration!”

Handling Resistance or Concerns

Addressing Social Media Enthusiasts

Some guests might feel bummed that they can’t post their pics on social media right away. You can soften this by encouraging them to share photos later in the day at the reception. Bonus points if you create a fun wedding hashtag to make sharing easier!

Balancing Expectations

If you know a few people who might resist the unplugged request, have a personal chat with them ahead of time. Explain how it enhances the experience for everyone and gives you all the chance to live in the moment.

A Graceful Middle Ground

If you don’t want to go totally unplugged, try having specific moments (like the ceremony) be phone-free, while leaving room for guests to snap photos at the reception or during other parts of the day. Another option is to set aside 2 minutes at the beginning of the ceremony for guests to take photos, with the understanding that the rest of the ceremony will be phone-free.

Real-Life Stories of Unplugged Success

A Photographer’s Perspective

As a Wedding Planner, I’ve heard countless times from Wedding Photographers that unplugged ceremonies make all the difference. They often mention how much easier it is to capture the raw emotion of the day when there aren’t guests blocking their view with phones or cameras. Photographers have also shared the anxiety they feel about missing a once-in-a-lifetime shot because a guest’s phone gets in the way. When guests are present and in the moment, it allows the photographer to focus on capturing those perfect, candid moments without distractions.

A Couple’s Reflection

One couple shared that their unplugged ceremony was the best decision they made, hands down. They loved seeing their guests’ unfiltered reactions—tears, smiles, and laughter—all without the distraction of phone screens. It allowed them to feel that everyone was fully immersed in the moment, and they felt deeply grateful for that. “We wouldn’t change a thing,” they said. “It made everything so much more special and intimate, just the way we envisioned it.”

The Bottom Line

An unplugged wedding is all about creating a space for connection, presence, and timeless photos. By asking your guests to leave their phones behind, you’re giving them—and you—the chance to truly experience the magic of the day. The result? A wedding day full of beautiful memories that won’t be lost in a screen.

So, go ahead—ask your guests to take a break from their devices. Your wedding photos (and your heart) will thank you later.