Vancouver is a fascinating amalgamation of innovative eateries, a thriving art scene, amiable locals and an abundance of evergreens woven into the glistening city. In addition, the often snow-capped likes of the Coastal Mountains, Mount Baker, Mount Rainier and Mount Garibaldi can often be seen from almost all corners of the city. Topping off all this goodness are Vancouver’s numerous wedding venues that are not only unique and visually stunning, but shockingly affordable. Whether you’re intrigued by the idea of a wedding amongst tropical flora and fauna, an outdoor affair in a flourishing garden, or a celebration in a historic ballroom, Vancouver has something special just for you.
UBC Botanical Garden
If you’ll be tying the knot in the warmer months, the lush UBC Botanical Garden is the ideal place to host a classic, whimsical or romantic themed wedding. The rainbow of flowers mixed with the fresh air create a lighthearted, joyful atmosphere, making this the type of venue you never want to leave. Event spaces include the Garden Pavilion and Rosalind Sturdy Amphitheater, but you and your guests won’t be confined to those areas, as you’re welcome to explore the totality of the gardens during your big day. Because this space only provides the venue, you have the opportunity to craft a wholly individualized wedding atop this beautiful canvas.
Typical Cost: $700 to $2,500
Capacity: 250
Bonus: Areas like the Asian Garden and Rainforest offer spectacular settings for photos.
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Koerner’s Pub
This urban chic eatery features a delicate canopy of string lights, balanced by wooden features and massive industrial windows; an aesthetic that makes Koerner’s Pub an ideal location for modern or rustic weddings. In regards to event spaces, they offer an array of options, including the interior of the pub, a large outdoor patio, garden area or all of the above. While you must get all food and drink from Koerner’s that’s not a bad thing, as their menu is filled with decadent items like Mushroom Gravy Poutine, Pho Nachos, Fish and Chips, Korean Pork Rice Bowl, and other options that might make that wedding dress a little tighter, but are well worth the sacrifice. This is a prime choice for those wanting a laid-back wedding that makes a lasting impression on guests.
Typical Cost: No venue fee, but $5,000 minimum catering fee
Capacity: 600
Bonus: The food is not only delicious but sustainable, as all the meats and poultry served are hormone-free and naturally raised. In addition, all seafood is Ocean Wise.
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Brickstone Ballroom
Located within the historic Elks building constructed in 1911, Brickstone Ballroom is 2,700 square feet of pure elegance and charm, infusing any celebration that takes place within these landmark halls with sophistication. In addition, the high ceilings, graceful arched windows and neutral color scheme make the ballroom a wonderful palate for weddings utilizing more traditional themes. While they don’t provide food and drink, they do offer a list of preferred vendors to ensure you’re able to hire professionals familiar with the space.
Typical Cost: Starts at $1,600 for 6 hours
Capacity: 120
Bonus: The ballroom’s central location in downtown Vancouver places it nearby many popular hotels.
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Bloedel Floral Conservatory
Typical Cost: $484 for two hours, and $242 for each additional hour.
Capacity: 150. The venue fee covers admission for 30 guests, each additional guest is $5.85
Bonus: The temperature is always balmy in the dome, so even if it’s snowing outside you can still enjoy nuptials that offer the illusion of being outdoors.
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Heritage Hall
Built in 1915 as a post office, this historic structure offers 3,300 square feet of Beaux Arts Classicism architecture, creating a sophisticated ambiance for couples wanting to craft a celebration that feels like a time machine back to the early 20th century. Adding to the historic appeal is the clock tower, high-hipped roof, columns and other ornamentations that create stunning backdrops for photos. The ballroom in the newly renovated interior of Heritage Hall seems to be pulled straight out of a French chateau and features stained glass chandeliers, a patterned tile floor, ornate columns and a trompe l’oeil mural; this elaborate environment adds to the affordability, as minimal decorations are needed.
Typical Cost: $2,500
Capacity: 150
Bonus: They offer a large serving kitchen to accommodate your caterer of choice.
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Bailey Gaddis is a travel writer and author of Feng Shui Mommy: Creating Balance and Harmony for Blissful Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Motherhood. In addition, she works as a childbirth preparation educator and birth doula who supports mothers-to-be and new mothers. She is also a regular contributor to media outlets including Disney’s Babble, Working Mother, Pregnancy & Newborn, Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, Redbook, and Woman’s Day. In addition to her childbirth-prep work, she volunteers for families in need of postpartum support. She lives in Ojai, California.
