As an elopement photographer, I am always looking for the best places to elope in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. I have had the pleasure of capturing the most intimate and beautiful moments for couples who choose to elope in Vancouver and the surrounding Lower Mainland region. This area is home to a variety of picturesque locations that make for stunning backdrops for your special day. In this article, I’ll share some of our favourite spots to photograph elopements, as well as some tips to keep in mind. Please note that the locations mentioned in this article are just a few of Pursell Photography’s favourite spots for capturing elopements. Each location has its own unique characteristics and challenges, and it may be particularly challenging for a natural light photographer to photograph in some of these locations. It is important to listen to elopement photographers’ recommendations based on their shooting style.
Vancouver Elopement Locations
We’ll first go over the popular suggestions for the Vancouver area, and then slowly move towards off-the-beaten paths. Keep reading and you might find a gem you didn’t know about! The city of Vancouver has dedicated places you can hold elopement ceremonies. See the 10 official outdoor parks where you can hold a ceremony in Vancouver.
Stanley Park
stanleyparkforestwedding
101
084
stanleyparkweddingphoto
stanley-park-wedding
We almost always recommend Stanley Park as one of the places to elope in Vancouver if you are set on downtown and want some nature. On the edge of downtown, Stanley Park offers a variety of picturesque spots for an intimate ceremony, from the stunning Rose Garden, and beaches to the towering trees in the park’s heart. There’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops for your photos here. See a full breakdown of photoshoot locations in Stanley Park. https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx
Queen Elizabeth Park
Queen-elizabeth-park-008
Queen-elizabeth-park-012
Queen-elizabeth-park-011
Queen-elizabeth-park-003
queen-elizabeth-park-wedding-vancouver
Queen Elizabeth Park has lots of locations for photographers to work with. Perched atop Little Mountain, the park offers breathtaking views of Vancouver’s skyline and the North Shore mountains. The beautifully landscaped gardens and water features make for great photo opportunities.
Coal Harbour
006 – groom first look coal harbour
009 – luxury wedding photos vancouver
020 – downtown vancouver city wedding phtotos
012 – Coal Harbour wedding photos Coal Harbour always has great lines to work with.
032 – city wedding photos vancouver
Coal Harbour is a stunning waterfront location with a backdrop of Vancouver’s skyline and the North Shore mountains. The marina and surrounding parks create a romantic and urban setting for your elopement photos. This location is great if you want city photos. See more photos from Coal Harbour.
Gastown
029 – gastown night wedding photo
028 – wedding photos gastown
gastown wedding reviews
gastown-wedding-reviews
night engagement photos gastown
Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, and its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and chic urban boutiques create a unique setting for your elopement photos. The iconic Steam Clock, located in the heart of Gastown, provides an interesting backdrop for your intimate ceremony and photos. https://gastown.org/
University of British Columbia
005 – city elopement
078 – ubc elopement
007 – bride elopement
rosegardenubcwedding
The University of British Columbia (UBC) campus, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and lush forests, provides an elegant backdrop for your elopement. With its stunning architecture, manicured gardens, and scenic ocean views, UBC offers a unique combination of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
Iona Beach
019 – vancouver elopement photographer Vancouver is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes, incredible architecture and a vibrant arts scene. It's no wonder that many couples want their elopement photographed in this beautiful city!
001 – outdoor wedding ceremony vancouver As the sun sets over Vancouver's Iona beach, it casts a golden light on couples ready to tie the knot in an outdoor wedding ceremony.
008 – beach elopement vancouver A beach elopement in Vancouver is perfect for those who want to be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature and have a secret getaway.
017 – warm sunset elopemennt
Iona Beach Regional Park, located near the Vancouver International Airport in Richmond, British Columbia, is a unique and picturesque setting and one of my favourite places to elope in Vancouver. This coastal park, featuring a mix of sandy beaches, grassy areas, and a long, narrow jetty, offers an exceptional backdrop for your special day.
Pacific Spirit Park
pacificspiritwedding-1
pacificspiritwedding-001
Pacific Spirit Regional Park, located near the University of British Columbia campus in Vancouver, is a natural oasis that offers a serene and beautiful setting for your elopement. With kilometres of walking trails winding through lush forests, this park provides some private spots to exchange your vows. See more forest locations.
Best Places to Elope in North Vancouver Shore
Elopements on the North Shore of Vancouver offer a blend of natural beauty and urban charm.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
treehouse wedding photography
Capilano Suspension Bridge Wedding Photo
045 – best forest wedding photos
Wedding photo Capilano suspensions bridge
rainforest wedding photos
For couples seeking an adventure-filled elopement, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a thrilling choice. As a photographer, I love using the famous suspension bridge and the Treetops Adventure area (it looks like an Ewok village). The lush rainforest and the sound of the rushing Capilano River below create a magical atmosphere.
Grouse Mountain
014 – grouse mountain wedding photos
016 – wedding at grouse mountain
Grouse Mountain provides a stunning alpine setting for your elopement photos, with panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding area. Whether you choose to exchange vows at the mountaintop chalet or in the pristine wilderness, this location is perfect for nature-loving couples. https://www.grousemountain.com/
Whytecliff Park
011 – whytecliff park outdoor wedding
010 sunny beach wedding photos Perfect sunset at Whytecliff Park.
021 – Whytecliff Park wedding
whytecliff park wedding
whytecliff park wedding photography
Whytecliff Park, located in West Vancouver, is known for its dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and picturesque beaches. As a photographer, I’m always amazed by the stunning backdrops this park provides for intimate elopement ceremonies. As far as getting close to Vancouver, I usually recommend this as one of the best places to elope in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. See more elopements from Whytecliff.
Lighthouse Park
lighthouse park wedding The rocks and lighthouse
west-coast-rocky-cliff-wedding Some candid photos walking on the cliffs at Lighthouse park
Big trees at Lighthouse park!
Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver boasts dramatic cliffs, a rugged shoreline, and the iconic Point Atkinson Lighthouse. This stunning location offers a unique and memorable setting for your elopement photos.
Lynn Canyon
050 – river elopements
047 – forest elopement
060 – north vancouver elopements
057 – small wedding photos
Lynn Canyon in North Vancouver is a picturesque spot for nature-loving couples. Elope among the towering trees, by the crystal-clear river, or on the suspension bridge that is great for photos.
Seymour Mountain
(Elopement photos coming soon)
Seymour Mountain in North Vancouver offers a breathtaking alpine setting for your elopement, with views of the city, ocean, and mountains. This location can have fairly easy views right from the parking lot and offers some nice trails to utilize for photos.
Capilano River Regional Park
jumping at the cleavland dam bc and capilano lake
romantic wedding couple in tree unique_wedding_pose_tree
Capilano River Regional Park, located in North Vancouver, offers a quiet atmosphere for couples seeking a nature-inspired elopement. The park boasts lush forests, rushing rivers, and stunning canyon views, providing a variety of picturesque settings for your intimate ceremony.
Best Places to Elope in Lower Mainland
The Lower Mainland of British Columbia has some amazing elopement locations that cater to various preferences and styles. From turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls to wide open fields and beautiful parks, the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley offer a diverse range of settings for your special day.
Barnet Marine Park
017 – burnaby wedding photos
barnet marine park wedding
engagmenet-barnet-marine-park
burnaby wedding photography reviews
061 – barnet elopement
barnet_marine_engagement
Barnet Marine Park in Burnaby is a hidden gem with stunning waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere. With its rustic charm and natural beauty, this park is an ideal setting for an intimate elopement. I find this is one of the best places to elope if you want to stay close to the city but don’t want a super popular park. See more photos from Barnet Marine Park.
Harrison Lake
025 – harrison hotsprings wedding photo
018 – private beach elopement
004 – off road waterfall adventure elopement
014 – waterfall elopement photos
017 – harrison lake elopement photography What an amazing day! All the details were perfect. And it was so nice to have a break from the rain.
008 – harrison lake elopement
025 – wedding photos harrison hotsprings
006 – mountain beach elopement A few options to consider when on the hunt for a romantic, intimate elopement are quiet beaches or even some adventurous off-the-beaten path locations.
002 – waterfall elopement
002 – rainy elopement harrison hot springs
Harrison Lake, located in the Fraser Valley, offers a serene and scenic lakeside location for your elopement. The surrounding mountains and lush forests provide a breathtaking backdrop for your special day, and as a photographer, this is without a doubt one of the best places to elope in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Check out photos from Harrison Lake.
Golden Ears
bride in front of mountains in golden ears park
golden ears park wedding photos
002 – vancouver elopement photography packages
055 – golden ears elopement
012 – pnw elopement
Golden Ears Provincial Park in Maple Ridge is known for its lush forests, mountain peaks, and tranquil lakes. Elope in one of its many picturesque spots, such as Alouette Lake or one of the park’s serene hiking trails. See our photos from Golden Ears Park. https://bcparks.ca/golden-ears-park/
Cascade Falls
036 – creek engagement vancouver
040 – vancouver waterfall engagement photos
048 – forest engagement vancouver
Cascade Falls in Mission is a unique location for couples seeking a more adventurous elopement. The stunning waterfall, lush forest, and wooden suspension bridge make for a magical ceremony backdrop.
Pitt Lake
country_wedding_pitt_lake
wedding_pitt_lake
pitt meadows wedding photo reviews
pitt_lake_wedding_landscape
pitt_lake_mountain_wedding
Pitt Lake, located in Pitt Meadows, is surrounded by mountains and marshlands, this location offers a peaceful and scenic setting that makes it one of the best places to elope in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Check out more photos from Pitt Lake.
Manning Park
(Elopement photos will be updated soon)
Manning Park, located in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, is a backcountry destination for couples seeking a serene and nature-filled elopement. With its pristine alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and breathtaking mountain vistas, Manning Park offers a variety of high mountain-top views and beautiful lakes for your intimate ceremony.
Bridal Falls
004 – bridal veil falls engagement photos
003 – bridal falls waterfall engagement British Columbia provides stunning scenery including pristine lakes, rushing rivers edged by mountain pine forests and soaring peaks; all waiting patiently for your photos.
Bridal Falls, accessible through a short, steep hike, offers a captivating setting for an elopement with its 60-meter-high waterfall, lush trees, and surrounding mountains. The serene stream nearby adds to the romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a memorable and intimate ceremony.
Best Places to Elope in Sea to Sky
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and towering coastal mountains, this area is home to awe-inspiring landscapes, from the waters of Porteau Cove to the mountaintops of the Sea to Sky Gondola.
Porteau Cove
001 – squamish engagement photos
012 – Squamish engagement photographer
007 – wedding photos squamish
002 – pre wedding squamish
011 – mountain wedding squamish
Porteau Cove, located along the Sea to Sky Highway near Squamish, features a beautiful pebble beach, stunning views of Howe Sound, and a picturesque pier. This serene location is perfect for a waterfront elopement and is a great place to elope if you are looking for mountain views. See more images from Porteau Cove.
Rainbow Park
089 – whistler wedding photographer
086 – best whistler wedding photos
whistler wedding locations We love Rainbow park in Whistler
090 – whistler wedding photographers
Rainbow Park in Whistler offers a breathtaking lakeside setting with mountain views, making it an ideal location if you want a Whistler elopement. The park’s lawns and docks provide a nice mountain backdrop for your special day, and as a photographer, I’m always inspired by the beauty of this location.
Sea to Sky Gondola
The most epic wedding first look ever!
006 – best photographer in Squamish
015 – Squamish wedding photos
048 – Squamish suspension bridge wedding photos
019 – professional wedding photographer in squamish
The Sea to Sky Gondola, located near Squamish, takes you to a mountaintop paradise with amazing views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. If you are looking for one of the best places to elope high in the mountains Sea to Sky Gondola is a good choice. Check out more elopements from Sea to Sky Gondola. https://www.seatoskygondola.com/
Rent an Airbnb or Intimate Venue
034 – fraser river lodge small wedding
007 – micro weddings bc
004 – wedding photography at hycroft manor
For couples seeking a more private and personalized elopement experience, renting an Airbnb can be an excellent option. With a vast selection of unique properties, ranging from cozy cabins to luxurious estates, you can find the perfect venue to match your vision for your special day. By choosing a private venue, you’ll have the flexibility to customize your ceremony and celebration, creating an intimate atmosphere that truly reflects your love story.
Some interesting intimate venues that have caught our eye are Royal Harrison, American Creek Lodge, The Loft Garden Oasis, The Treehouse, and Fraser River Lodge.
Adventure Elopements: Helicopters, Off-Road Vehicles, Boats, and Hikes
004 – vancouver helicopter elopement
001 – helicopter elopement
049 – best elopement locations
002 – atv elopement
022 – ice waterfall elopement
028 – atv elopement
025 – mountain top elopememt
033 – mountain top elopements
Imagine exchanging vows on a remote mountain peak, accessible only by helicopter, or spending time on a secluded beach reached by boat. Hiking to a serene waterfall or traversing rugged terrain in an off-road vehicle can add a sense of excitement and wonder to your special day. As an elopement photographer, I love the challenge and exhilaration of capturing these adventure-filled moments. See more adventure ideas for your elopement!
Considerations
Legal Requirements
Before eloping, ensure you meet all legal requirements, such as obtaining a marriage license and finding a marriage commissioner or religious representative to officiate your ceremony. See more in our article outlining how to get married in British Columbia. Weather When planning your elopement, consider the weather and choose a time of year that suits your desired location. Vancouver and the Lower Mainland are known for their unpredictable weather, so be prepared for rain or shine. As creative photographers, we love using the weather that mother nature gives us. Check out why we embrace the bad weather.
Budget
Eloping can be a cost-effective alternative to a traditional wedding, but it’s essential to consider all the expenses involved. Factor in the cost of travel, accommodations, attire, and any additional services, such as photography or videography. As an elopement photographer, I offer a variety of packages to suit different budgets and needs, mostly focusing on showcasing your elopement photos in print!
How to Select the Best Location for Your Elopement
Selecting the perfect place to elope involves considering several factors, such as good natural light, a sentimental connection to the place, picturesque scenery, and privacy. When choosing your location, remember that the direction of sunlight is important. Ideally, the light should be behind you. We will work closely with you to recommend the best time of day for your chosen location, ensuring you get the most out of your photos.
You may want to choose a sentimental place that holds personal significance for you and your partner, as this will add emotional depth to your elopement. Finally, you may want to prioritize privacy to ensure an intimate atmosphere where you and your partner can fully enjoy the moment.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to elope in a park or public location?
Some parks and public locations require permits for weddings and elopements. Check with the specific location or park board to determine if a permit is needed.
How far in advance should I book an elopement photographer?
Booking an elopement photographer can vary depending on their availability. It’s recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance. Most elopements are booked during the week so you can get your preferred vendors and elopement locations are less busy. For prime weekend dates, we require a pre-payment of a certain amount.
Can we have guests at our elopement?
Yes, many elopement locations can accommodate a small number of guests. Be sure to check with the specific location for any restrictions on guest numbers.
What should I wear for an outdoor elopement?
Choose attire that is comfortable and suitable for the weather and location. Consider the terrain and potential weather changes when selecting footwear and outerwear.
Do we need witnesses for our elopement?
In British Columbia, two witnesses aged 19 or older are required to be present during your ceremony. We are able to sign as your witness if you would like us to.
The Perfect Ending: Places to Elope in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland