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.

Problem-Solving for Weddings: Turning Challenges Into Wins

No wedding unfolds without a few hiccups, but that’s part of the adventure! With some savvy planning and a cool head, you can handle anything from surprise downpours to navigating sticky family dynamics. Let’s dive into how to turn wedding challenges into opportunities for creativity, connection, and maybe even a good story to laugh about later.

Rain on Your Wedding Day? Embrace the Elements With Style

Rain might not have been on your Pinterest board, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. With a little prep, you can transform rainy vibes into an unforgettable, romantic backdrop for your day. After all, rain symbolizes good luck—so let’s lean into that! And trust us, some of the best wedding photos come with a side of raindrops.

Pick a Flexible Venue

When hunting for your venue, prioritize one that offers both indoor and outdoor options. Think cozy lodges with fireplaces, open barns with clear tent potential, or garden spaces with sheltered nooks. The goal is to keep the vibe alive, no matter what the weather gods decide. The goal is to keep the vibe alive, no matter what the weather gods decide. And bonus? A versatile venue lets you roll with whatever nature throws your way.

Invest in Rainy-Day Glam

Consider clear tents for dreamy, diffused light, heaters for chilly evenings, and chic umbrellas that fit your aesthetic. No one said practical couldn’t be pretty. Bonus: Clear tents let you enjoy the rain’s ambiance without the soggy aftermath. Your guests will feel cared for, and you’ll have those perfectly moody photos to look back on.

Team Up With Your Vendors

Your vendor team should have a game plan for unexpected weather. From waterproofing floral arrangements to photographers who can capture that magical backlit rain-kiss shot, let the pros work their magic. A quick chat with your vendors ahead of time can make weather hiccups feel like a non-issue. Your team has likely seen it all before, so lean on their expertise and trust they’ll have your back.

Rain, But Make It Fashion

Think waterproof (but fabulous) footwear, matching umbrellas, and wraps that complement your wedding colors. These tiny details can turn “uh-oh” into “oh, wow!” Your photos will look intentional, and your wedding party will thank you for keeping them comfortable. It’s all about reframing the moment into something unique to your love story. It’s also a great excuse to incorporate cozy touches, like velvet textures or warm color palettes, into your look.

Romance the Rain

Let the rain add a cozy, intimate vibe to your day. Imagine guests sipping hot cocoa, cuddled under blankets, as you exchange vows with the sound of soft raindrops. It’s all about reframing the moment into something unique to your love story, and maybe even a little magical.

Planning a Destination Wedding? Here’s the Real Deal

Destination weddings are like a romantic escape wrapped in celebration. But let’s be real—planning from afar can feel like wrangling a tropical storm. Fear not, globetrotters! These tips will keep your dream day as smooth as the sand beneath your toes. Think of it as creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience, not just for you, but for everyone you love.

Know the Local Rules

Every country has its quirks when it comes to marriage laws. From paperwork to residency requirements, it pays to be in the know. Hiring a wedding planner can save you from red tape and let you focus on the fun stuff (hint hint). The sooner you tackle these details, the more time you’ll have to focus on the fun stuff, like tasting local cocktails for your signature drink.

Get There Before the Big Day

If budget allows, plan a pre-wedding scouting trip. Meet your vendors, taste the food, and take in the views firsthand. Seeing everything IRL makes it easier to imagine how your day will flow—and helps you avoid surprises. It’s also a great chance to connect with the local culture and maybe even spot a hidden gem to incorporate into your wedding day.

Map Out the Experience

Destination weddings are more than a single day; they’re an entire vibe. Craft a timeline with your planner that includes group outings, welcome parties, and plenty of chill time for your guests. It’s your wedding, but it’s also their getaway—so balance celebration with relaxation. This balance ensures your wedding feels like a celebration, not a marathon of events.

Keep Guests in the Loop

Your guests will need details like travel tips, local attractions, and what to pack. Set up a wedding website to centralize all the info and answer FAQs. Proactive communication means fewer last-minute texts asking, “Wait, what time’s the welcome party?” The more organized you are, the more relaxed your guests will feel—and that energy is contagious.

Pack Like a Pro

Keep must-haves like attire, accessories, and paperwork in your carry-on. That way, even if your checked luggage goes rogue, the essentials are safe with you. Double-check for destination-specific needs—beach weddings call for sunscreen and bug spray; mountain weddings might need extra layers. Pro tip: Label everything! Trust us, it’s a lifesaver when dealing with airport chaos.

Expect the Unexpected

From exchange rates to last-minute adjustments, destination weddings can come with surprise costs. Build a small buffer in your budget so these “oops” moments don’t steal your joy. Consider it an investment in peace of mind. It’s all part of the adventure—think of it as adding character to your story.

Family Drama? Let’s Keep the Peace

Ah, weddings—the ultimate reunion of love, joy, and, sometimes, family drama. Navigating tricky dynamics can feel like balancing on a tightrope, but it doesn’t have to steal your spotlight. Here’s how to keep everyone (mostly) happy while staying true to your vision. Because at the end of the day, your wedding is about unity—not just for you and your partner, but for everyone gathered.

Draw the Line Early

Set clear boundaries with family members from the start. Share your vision for the wedding, and let them know which decisions are non-negotiable. Setting expectations early helps curb unsolicited opinions before they snowball. Being upfront now saves you from countless “Well, I thought…” conversations later.

Put Them to Work

Involve your family in meaningful ways that play to their strengths. Let the foodie aunt help with the menu or the creative cousin craft centerpieces. Giving them roles keeps them busy and invested—in a good way. When people feel valued and included, they’re less likely to meddle in areas that aren’t their lane.

Bring in a Buffer

Whether it’s your planner, a close friend, or your officiant, having a neutral party to mediate can be a game-changer. Sometimes it takes an outsider to help everyone chill and refocus on the love. It’s a subtle way to remind everyone that this day is about celebrating—not squabbling.

Plan for Hot Topics

Every family has its pressure points—divorced parents, cultural clashes, or sibling rivalries. Address these proactively with thoughtful seating charts or inclusive ceremonies. Preparation = less drama and more dancing later. Anticipating these moments shows care and helps avoid awkwardness for everyone involved.

Keep Talking

Open communication is key. Regularly update family members on your plans to avoid misunderstandings. Empathy goes a long way, even if Aunt Karen is questioning your dessert choices. And remember, a little patience can go a long way when emotions are running high.

Stick Together as a Couple

You and your partner are the MVPs of this day. Stay united, back each other up, and tackle tough conversations as a team. Your bond sets the tone—if you’re calm and confident, everyone else will follow suit (or at least try to). When you stand firm together, it sets the tone for the rest of the group.

Every wedding challenge is an opportunity in disguise. Whether it’s weather woes, destination logistics, or family dynamics, staying flexible and solution-focused can turn stress into success. Remember, at the heart of it all is love—and no curveball can outshine that. Plus, you’ll walk away with stories that remind you just how perfectly imperfect your day was.