Vancouver is full of natural beauty of the outdoors, so it makes sense that choosing to plan your wedding in Vancouver, you gravitate to nature. The greenery and landscape that we enjoy is largely due to the amount of rain we have that keeps everything lush. With the unpredictability of rain, comes some extra planning when having your outdoor wedding at a venue in Vancouver!
We love Vancouver outdoor weddings!
From Stanley Park Pavilion to UBC Botanical Gardens, Hycroft Manor, Cecil Green Park House, there are so many amazing Vancouver wedding venues to choose from that offer beautiful spaces. A ceremony on a lawn or in the middle of a garden offers plenty of beauty without having to add too much extra decor. It also saves on time having to choose secondary locations for your photo taking since you can find the perfect spot at your venue.
Things to Consider
Popular Months
Most Vancouver weddings take place in the summer months from May to September. The weather is typically better and a more ideal time of year to hold your event outside.
Extra Considerations
Many venues that provide an outdoor space are in open areas where you have to bring most things. These can be considered extra expenses that you will want to plan for. It really depends on the space that you are securing as some may provide a few key pieces, and others leave it as a blank slate for you to use it as you like! Table, chairs, tents, generators, potentially even washrooms to make sure you have all your bases covered. This will be in addition to any decor items you need to make your wedding day a standout.
Daylight Timing
With an outdoor wedding, you need to consider the day of your event and the lighting conditions. When the sun is shining brightly, it’s beautiful but your guests might appreciate a shaded area that they can escape the heat. Peak sunshine leads to a hot day and hydration should be another area top of mind. A water station does wonders to make sure your guests (and you!) can last the day.
When the light shines through your reception and starts to set, it gives off some beautiful light. Take note of sunset times if you want to sneak off for some golden hour photos. If your wedding is in June or early July, you will have a lot more sunlight to work with. Towards the late summer months, when it gets darker earlier, there are different lighting considerations. Make sure your reception area is well lit so your guests can see their meal and the events taking place once the sun goes down.
Noise Restrictions
Is your venue in a residential area? There may be noise restrictions or earlier end times to consider. Your venue will provide you all the details, from what time a certain decibel level needs to be adhered to, bass off, time for music to end and when guests and vendors need to leave. In a residential location, a late night full dance party may not be possible as there are often earlier end times. Always check with your venue and double check your contract so you’re aware of any rules to follow.
Plan B Weather Backup
In a city that has the nickname Raincouver, it’s important to have a backup plan if the weather doesn’t cooperate. If your venue provides a space large enough inside, make sure you have a floor plan in place for how you are using the space. You don’t want your vendors scrambling to figure out the plan on the big day. For venues without an indoor area, you will need a tent. Having a tent large enough is ideal so your plans can can continue outdoors.
Some couples want to wait until the last minute to see what is happening with the weather before committing to a tent rental. Avoid the disappointment of tents being booked up especially on a popular wedding day and don’t leave booking until the last minute. There is limited availability when it comes to large tents, delivery trucks and labour. You can be sure that every other event planning for outdoors is also checking the weather forecast!
Power Sources
It all depends on your venue and what they provide but when you do your site visit, ask about what power outlets are available for use. Seasoned venues will know exactly what each outlet can take without blowing a fuse. Make sure you’re noting these down so on the wedding day fuses don’t get blown. A generator is always great to have so that certain vendors that require more power, get what they need and can operate properly.
Contact us to plan your outdoor wedding in Vancouver!
We love outdoor weddings and taking advantage of all the nature that Vancouver provides. We also know that it can take a little extra planning to make sure your plans run smoothly. If you’re feeling overwhelmed figuring out all the details for your outdoor wedding, reach out, we would love to guide you, planning your wedding day! Check out our services and then reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation
Photos from a wedding at UBC Botanical Garden
Photography Sammie Chan Photography
Videography Philohgraphy Studio
Hair & Makeup The Love Team Coco
Florist Hanaki Floral Design
Rentals Events by Elle and Pedersens Event Rentals
Catering White Table Catering
DJ Chelsie Van Lux Entertainment
Cakes Got The Gooods and Zarak Vancouver
Photobooth Dang Good Booths
Tent Pacific Coast Tents
Wedding Design and Coordination Keepsake Events