Let’s be honest—not everyone dreams of a 200-person guest list, a weekend-long schedule, and six rounds of linen samples. Some of us just want to marry our person (or persons), soak up the joy, and skip the part where we need a spreadsheet to remember who’s allergic to shellfish.
If you’ve ever felt low-key allergic to the idea of a traditional wedding, you’re not alone. Maybe you’re craving intimacy over itinerary. Maybe the idea of walking down an aisle in front of a crowd gives you the ick. Or maybe—just maybe—you’re a little wild at heart, and the idea of doing things your way feels way more romantic than a plated dinner ever could.
This is a love note to the rule-breakers. The deeply in-love-but-not-into-chair-covers crew. The “can we just get married already?” types.
This, dear reader, is where the Wedding Quickie comes in…
So… What Is a Wedding Quickie?
Think of it as a pop-up microwedding with soul. The Wedding Quickie is our signature small-scale wedding experience, created for couples who want all the beauty, intention, and magic of a full wedding coronation—just without the year-long planning marathon, endless spreadsheets, or five-figure floral invoices.
Rooted right here in Vancouver, these intimate celebrations are designed to take the pressure off while keeping all the heart. We’re talking gorgeous locations (you know BC always shows off), a curated vendor dream team, floral details that hit just right, and a ceremony that feels like you put in all the effort (even if you didn’t!).
As a Vancouver wedding planner who believes weddings don’t need to be massive to be meaningful, we built Wedding Quickies for lovers who crave connection, not coordination overwhelm.
It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about cutting through the noise.
Less stress. Less cost. Less chaos. More intention. More meaning. More “hell yes.”
Who’s It For?
Whether you’re a laid-back Vancouver local or a couple from Toronto or Montreal dreaming of a destination wedding in BC, the Wedding Quickie might just be your soulmate.
This intentionally-crafted microwedding experience is for lovers who want:
✨ A soul-filled celebration without the two-year planning marathon. ✨ To spend their money on travel, a house, a dog, or a tattoo sleeve (we get it) instead of chair rentals and charger plates. ✨ A “just us” or “just a few” kind of vibe—intimate, cozy, wildly romantic. ✨ A wedding day that feels like a ceremony, not a performance.
And the best part? It’s not just for first-time “I do’s.”
Wedding Quickies are also perfect for: 💍 Second marriages 💫 Vow renewals 💖 Commitment ceremonies
For our friends out East, this is your sign: a destination wedding in Vancouver doesn’t have to mean maxing out your credit card or planning from three time zones away. We’ve got you. From sweeping mountain views to secret beach hideaways, we’ll handle the magic—you just show up and get married.
And for the hometown sweethearts right here in Vancouver, this is your reminder that your dream wedding doesn’t have to be big to be unforgettable.
The Experience: What You Actually Get
Let’s get into the juicy details. This isn’t some vague “wedding package” with hidden costs and a sad folding table. This is a full-on, fully styled, deeply intentional microwedding—every detail covered, every vibe accounted for.
Here’s what your Wedding Quickie includes:
📸 2 Hours of Photography From guest arrival to your iconic couple’s portraits in the Shipyards, your pro photog will catch every smile, kiss, and holy sht we’re married* moment. You’ll receive high-resolution images via a beautiful online gallery to relive it all over wine and snacks.
💻 Wedding Planning + Coordination We’re talking the full experience—a vendor intro meeting, access to our online planning software, one-on-one virtual planning sesh, mood boards, colour palette curation, and help sourcing the perfect details. We handle vendor and venue communication (and payments!), your timeline, layout, setup, teardown, and full-day coordination. You? Just show up.
🏙️ The Venue: The Wallace A sleek, modern-industrial dream perched on the Lower Lonsdale waterfront in North Vancouver. Think: high ceilings, concrete textures, and sweeping views that’ll make your guests’ jaws drop.
🪑 Design-Forward Ceremony Setup Welcome table, signing table, cocktail tables with premium linens, luxe lounge seating, and a dressing room on site for those final “damn, I look good” moments.
🌸 A Personal Floral Credit You get to bloom your own way. Whether you want a bouquet and boutonniere, two bouquets, or one bold-as-hell statement piece, we’ve got options that match every vibe.
🌿 One-of-a-Kind Statement Arch Not to be dramatic, but this ceremony backdrop might upstage you. Sculptural, elegant, and an absolute stunner.
💄 Hair + Makeup by Paige Griffith Beauty & True Beauty Makeup Artistry Expect glowy skin, killer confidence, and serious main-character energy. Services take place at a studio just minutes from the venue. Yes, it’s that dreamy.
💍 A Short, Sweet, & Meaningful Ceremony No fluff. No filler. Just the good stuff.
Ceremony Length: 10 minutes
Script Included: With a warm welcome, thoughtful words on marriage, and a ring exchange
Personal Vows? 100% yes—your words, your moment
Optional Reading: Bring your fave poem, lyric, or passage
Legal Bits? Totally handled. You just focus on the love part.
Want to Celebrate With Dinner After? We’ve Got That Too
If you’re still dreaming of that golden-hour clink of glasses and a shared meal with your favourite humans—you’re in luck. We’ve already curated a fully catered, fully styled, and seated reception dinner that you can add on for a very digestible flat rate. No spreadsheets. No stress. Just a sweet, soulful celebration to cap off your best yes ever.
Why We Created It (The Soul Part)
Let’s be real: not everyone dreams of a 200-person ballroom wedding with a custom monogrammed dance floor. And honestly? That’s kind of our favourite thing about you.
We created the Wedding Quickie because we saw a need—for something more aligned, more intentional, and way less overwhelming. A way to get married that feels like you, not like a performance.
This offering is rooted (deeply) in our belief that weddings don’t have to be big to be beautiful. What people actually crave is connection, meaning, and a memory that still gives them goosebumps ten years later. We wanted to create a space where that could happen—without the chaos, the cost, or the cookie-cutter expectations.
It’s a love letter to the untraditionalists. To the time-strapped lovers juggling life, work, and everything in between. To the romantics who’d rather invest in adventures, homes, dogs, or tattoos. To the rebels with hearts of gold who know that love doesn’t need a spotlight—just a moment that feels true.
We are so grateful for the couples who choose to do things differently, and we’re endlessly honoured to help make their version of “I do” feel as sacred, beautiful, and easy as it should be.
This isn’t just a wedding—it’s a moment of truth, of joy, of deep freaking alignment. And we’re here for every second of it.
Real Talk: Is a Quickie Right for You?
Let’s cut to the chase with a quick little quiz—because sometimes, you just need to know if this whole Wedding Quickie thing actually vibes with you:
Do you want to get married this year (like, ASAP-ish)?
Are you craving less planning stress and more being fully present on your day?
Do you feel most yourself surrounded by nature, a city alleyway, or a funky industrial space?
Is your dog or fur baby destined to be the ultimate ring bearer?
Would you rather toast with champagne than fuss over a seating chart?
If you said “yes” to any of these, guess what? A Wedding Quickie might just be your soulmate.
No fuss. No fluff. Just the kind of wedding that feels right, real, and totally you.
How to Get One (and What Happens Next)
Ready to say yes to a Wedding Quickie? Here’s how it goes down—simple, straightforward, and totally stress-free:
Chat & Customize — We’ll hop on a quick virtual call to give you all the deets about the day
Pick Your Date & Time Slot — When you’re ready, we’ll lock in your spot and introduce you to the whole team
Sit Back & Relax — We handle the details, coordinate your vendors, and make sure your day flows effortlessly. You just show up, soak it all in, and get married.
No pressure. No ick energy.
We’re here only if it feels right—and if you’re vibing with the idea of a soulful, intimate wedding that’s all heart and zero fuss.
Curious? Ready? Excited? We can’t wait to hear from you.
At Thistle & Thorne, we believe that every love story is unique and deserves to be celebrated in all its authentic glory. Recently, we had the profound honour of speaking with a remarkable trans mom (whom we’ll refer to as “Sara” for her safety), whose daughter is preparing for her wedding in 2025. Our heart-to-heart delved into the art of inclusion, the power of visibility, and the ever-evolving dance of family dynamics in the whirlwind of wedding planning.
A Mother’s Journey: Feeling the Love
Approximately two decades ago, when her eldest daughter was 10, Sara made the courageous decision to separate from her wife and embark on her journey of gender affirmation.
“I went from being a married, well supported father who was mainstream, by all external accounts, but kind of fucked up, to being happy but being a single working mom who is completely on the fringe.“
Throughout this transformative period, she remained steadfast in her commitment to her children, choosing to stay close to home to ensure she continued to play a pivotal role in their lives.
“I think the perception might be that men become women and then just run away to live their lives and that’s not the case—that was never a question”
Sara and her ex-wife navigated the complexities of co-parenting with grace and mutual respect, fostering an environment of understanding and support as their family adapted to these changes together. Sara’s journey of embracing her authentic self has been deeply intertwined with her dedication to her family. As she steps into the role of mother-of-the-bride, Sara reflects on the profound significance of being actively involved in her daughter’s wedding preparations.
“It’s pretty exciting — I feel fully included.”
she shared, reflecting on her involvement in the wedding preparations. She emphasized the significance of being included, and the profound impact that intentional inclusion can have, especially for trans parents who, like all parents, cherish the opportunity to stand proudly beside their children during such monumental moments.
Wedding traditions often come with a set of expectations, some of which may not naturally accommodate the diverse identities within modern families. Our chat with Sara highlighted the importance of reimagining these traditions to ensure everyone feels seen and celebrated. It’s all about creating a day where love and authenticity take centre stage.
For those newly engaged lovebirds pondering how to weave a trans parent into the wedding festivities, here are some thoughtful tips to consider:
Aisle Walks with a Twist: Traditionally, a parent escorts their child down the aisle. Why not flip the script? Maybe both parents join in, or perhaps the child walks solo, radiating independence. The key is to craft a moment that resonates with your family’s unique rhythm.
Witnessing the “I Dos”: Having your trans parent serve as a legal witness isn’t just paperwork—it’s a heartfelt nod to their unwavering support and love throughout your journey.
Picture-Perfect Portraits: Family photos capture the essence of the day. Including your trans parent in these snapshots not only honours your bond but also showcases the beautiful diversity of your family tree.
Speeches that Sparkle: Handing the mic to your trans parent for a toast or speech allows them to share their joy and pride, adding another layer of warmth to the celebration.
A note from Thistle & Thorne to newly engaged couples—When brainstorming these roles, take a moment to chat with your trans parent about their dreams and comfort levels regarding the big day. Perhaps they’ve envisioned a particular role or have insights on how they’d feel most at ease in the spotlight. Open, heartfelt conversations pave the way for a celebration that’s inclusive, meaningful, and authentically you.
The Power of Visibility: More Than Just Attendance
Being present is one thing; being truly seen is another. Sara expressed how meaningful it was to be visibly celebrated in all aspects of the wedding, from the ceremony to family photos. Such visibility not only honours her personal journey but also sends a resounding message of acceptance and love to the wider community.
“That’s what has made it really exciting is that I feel fully included. That would be really difficult if [a trans parent] kind of just came as an onlooker”
Navigating Family Dynamics with Love
Family gatherings can be a mixed bag, especially when they bring together relatives with a kaleidoscope of understanding and acceptance levels. She emphasized the universal threads that bind familial bonds, transcending political or personal differences. Reflecting on her interactions with her daughter’s in-laws, she observed, “There’s a common humanity there.” This perspective is a gentle nudge that love and understanding can bridge even the widest of gaps within family circles.
The Bigger Picture: Visibility Amidst Challenges
Our chat also touched on the current socio-political climate, highlighting the pressing need for visibility and support for the trans community. With recent policies affecting transgender rights, such as the executive orders issued by the Trump Administration that seek to dismantle protections for transgender individuals, the need for visibility and support has become even more critical. She candidly shared,
“we struggle with this a lot in the United States now with the Trump administration. I mean, the news is horrible.”
Her words shine a light on the resilience and courage required to navigate these challenging times.
Tips for Trans Parents Preparing for a Wedding
Embarking on this journey? Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help you glide through:
Heart-to-Heart with Your Child: Open the lines of communication about their wedding dreams and expectations. Understanding their vision helps you align your role in a way that honours their special day.
Dressing the Part: Choosing the right outfit can be a puzzle. Collaborate with the couple to understand the wedding’s dress code and choose an outfit that aligns with both the event’s formality and your authentic self.
Family Feels: Anticipate a mix of reactions from relatives with varying levels of understanding and acceptance. If possible, have pre-wedding chats with key family members to address any concerns and set expectations. This proactive approach can help minimize discomfort during the event.
Boundaries are Beautiful: Your well-being is paramount. If certain interactions or situations become too challenging, it’s perfectly okay to set boundaries or take a step back. Remember, your presence is about celebrating your child’s happiness while honouring your own comfort.
Lean on Your Tribe: Connecting with other trans parents or support groups can offer invaluable insights and coping strategies. Sharing experiences can bolster your confidence as you step into the celebration.
Savour the Celebration: Amidst the hustle and potential hiccups, focus on the joy of the occasion. Revel in the love and union that the wedding embodies, and treasure the moments shared with your child and loved ones.
By approaching the event with preparation, open communication, and self-care, you can contribute positively to your child’s special day while staying true to your authentic self.
A Call to Action: Supporting the Trans Community
In today’s climate, with policies and rhetoric that often sideline the trans community, it’s more crucial than ever to stand in solidarity and support. Education and empathy are our guiding stars. We encourage everyone to seek out resources, engage in meaningful conversations, and actively cultivate environments where all individuals feel safe and celebrated. Remember, growth is a journey, and taking the initiative to learn is a commendable step toward building a more inclusive world.
By embracing the stories of individuals like this devoted mother and actively seeking to understand and support the trans community, we enrich our collective human experience and ensure that love, in all its beautiful forms, is honoured and celebrated.
For those less familiar with the experiences of trans individuals, we encourage proactive learning and open-hearted engagement. Understanding begins with listening, and growth follows when we challenge our own preconceptions.
Resources for Further Learning and Support
For those looking to deepen their understanding and support of the trans community, here are some valuable resources:
Trans Lifeline (Canada Support Line) A peer support and crisis line run by and for trans people. https://www.translifeline.org/
Egale Canada National organization advancing LGBTQI2S rights and inclusion. Lots of educational tools and support resources. https://egale.ca/
Rainbow Resource Centre (Winnipeg but national outreach) Resources, workshops, and support for 2SLGBTQ+ communities across Canada. https://rainbowresourcecentre.org/
The 519 (Toronto-based but highly reputable resource) An incredible hub for LGBTQ2S support services, education, and advocacy. https://www.the519.org/
QMUNITY (BC-focused, but great national resources) A non-profit supporting queer, trans, and Two-Spirit people through resources, programming, and education. https://qmunity.ca/
PFLAG Canada Provides support, education, and resources for families, friends, and allies of trans folks across Canada. https://pflagcanada.ca/
Trans Care BC A BC-based resource hub focused on improving the health and well-being of trans and gender-diverse people across the province. http://www.phsa.ca/transcarebc
Gender Creative Kids Canada A wonderful resource dedicated to supporting transgender and gender-diverse youth and their families. https://gendercreativekids.ca/
Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity (CCGSD) They offer education and resources for creating inclusive spaces in schools, workplaces, and communities. https://ccgsd-ccdgs.org/
Enchante Network A national network connecting over 200 2SLGBTQ+ organizations across Canada. Great place to find local support. https://enchantenetwork.ca/
with gratitude
As wedding planners, we are continually inspired by the diverse stories of love and family that we encounter. This conversation was a heartfelt reminder of the magic that unfolds when we champion authenticity and inclusivity. It’s a testament to the fact that when we honour each individual’s truth, we pave the way for celebrations that are deeply resonant and genuinely unforgettable.
As we conclude this narrative, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sara for sharing her journey with us. Her journey is a beautiful reminder that love knows no bounds and that being true to oneself enriches not just our own lives, but also those of our loved ones. Thank you, Sara, for allowing us a glimpse into your world and inspiring us to celebrate love in all its beautiful forms.
– Jodie Garneau, Thistle & Thorne
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https://www.translifeline.org/
