Popular Wedding Venues in British Columbia & Average Wedding Venue Costs
Let's start with an iconic and spectacular venue: Fairmont Empress, in Victoria. A true castle by the sea, this luxury hotel is perfect for couples dreaming of a royal wedding with a historic touch. From the ornate lounges to the impeccable gardens and harbor views, it's all about refinement. The quality of the service and the imposing architecture make it a popular choice for major events, without forgetting a stunning location on magical Vancouver Island.
Looking for an intimate wedding with a sea view? Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa, also on Vancouver Island, offers an idyllic setting for a waterfront ceremony. With its 33 rooms, spa, marina, and sun-drenched terraces, it's the perfect choice for a romantic and relaxing wedding with a wow factor. Imagine a twilight ceremony there!
For a more country feel, Rocking Ridge Ranch in Knutsford combines rustic charm with a warm welcome. Nestled in the hills, this family-run farm hosts weddings for up to 150 guests in a relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by nature, animals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
In the mountains, Island Lake Lodge in Fernie is a true alpine — or rocky — retreat. Accessible in summer and winter alike, this wildly chic lodge offers the perfect setting for a ceremony overlooking the peaks, a refined dinner in a wooded setting — forest wedding anyone? — and even activities for guests (hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation). A dream option for outdoor lovers.
In Vancouver, for a sophisticated urban wedding, The Permanent combines historic design and modernity. This chic venue accommodates up to 130 guests in a unique decor featuring marble columns, stained glass windows, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s an ideal wedding venue if you’re looking for an elegant, intimate, and easily accessible setting.
For those on a tighter budget, options such as Yarrow Community Centre, in Chilliwack, offer rooms complete with a kitchen, crockery, and sound equipment, set in 4 acres of wooded parkland. A great way to organize a personalized wedding on a budget.
Dreaming of a wedding on a lake in the Okanagan? Walnut Beach Resort, in Osoyoos, offers a private beach, modern rooms, breathtaking mountain views, and an almost Mediterranean climate. Ideal for a wedding weekend that smells of summer… and vacation!
Finally, Newlands Golf & Country Club, in Langley, is a safe bet for those looking for a complete venue with catering, decoration, DJ, and event coordination included. With its large, bright rooms and views over the greens, it combines classic elegance with logistical efficiency.
On average, it costs between $8,000 and $10,000 to rent a wedding venue for an entire weekend in British Columbia. Vancouver is infamously expensive, while the most luxurious venues, such as oceanfront resorts or historic hotels, can easily top $20,000. That being said, some community halls or rural options start as low as $500.
Average Booking Lead Times for Wedding Venues in British Columbia
In the high season (June to September), we strongly recommend that you book your wedding venue between 12 and 18 months before your big day. Popular venues — by the sea, in the Okanagan vineyards, or around Vancouver — often sell out one to two years in advance, especially for Saturdays in August.
For winter or off-season weddings, deadlines are more flexible. Some venues, such as ranches or small inns, are still available up to 6 months in advance, but it's always advisable to book early to get the best dates and conditions. Moreover, winter weddings are increasingly popular, so wedding venues in resorts like Whistler fill up faster than a downhill skier.