Your One-Stop Guide To Eloping in Vancouver, BC
If you're looking for a more intimate and stress-free way to tie the knot in British Columbia, eloping might be the perfect option for you.
While there aren’t as many details to plan for an elopement, there are still a few steps needed to plan your best day ever.
5 Steps For How to Elope in BC
1) Marriage License
If you’re making it legal, in BC you need to get a marriage license that is valid for 3 months. It costs $100 and can be purchased at a variety of locations including a number in insurance locations as well as London Drugs.
You’ll also need two official witnesses to watch you say I Do and sign your license with you.
2) An Officiant
There are a few options when it comes to making your BC elopement legal. Each city/township has a list of Marriage Commissioner who are legally able to marry you, and will register your marriage for a moderate price.
Alternatively, there are companies like Young Hip and Married who offer a more of an elevated and bespoke experience.
3) Location
When you’re planning your outdoor elopement, some Vancouver parks require a permit. You can see the full list of parks here as well as apply for your wedding permit.
Another thing to keep in mind is that some provincial provincial parks, like Garibaldi Provincial Park, Golden Ears Provincial Park and Joffre Lakes, require you to register for a free day pass in advance of your visit. (Note: Day pass website updated seasonally)
Key things to consider when choosing your location:
Special meaning. With the added flexibility of where to exchange your vows, choosing a location that has special meaning to you both will only make your day that much more special.
Time of year. Popular spots with that epic view are often busy during the summer months. If you’re looking for an epic shot but with less people around, consider the shoulder seasons or potentionally the winter when the location is less busy and you can have a more private/intimate experience.
Ability. Often the epic view locations require some effort to get there. This is key especially if you’re having an intimate wedding with your ride-or-dies. Fitness levels + mobility issues should be considered and alternate plans can be made (think 4x4 transportation or a heli bump instead of hiking)
Weather. The more exposed a location, the faster the weather changes. This can be true especially in the mountains, where it can go from sunny and warm to overcast + chilly in a matter of minutes. Ensuring you’re prepared interms of attire or choosing a specific time of year when the weather is more temperate will help keep your day feeling fun
Transportation. Your location will determine what type of vehicle you need to get there. Getting to most parks close to the city only require a regular vehicle. As you head into the mountains, some forest service roads can be accessed with a 2WD vehicle, while other require at minimum 4WD or even a 4x4 vehicle.
Related Post: Best outdoor venues to elope in BC
4) Vendors
Although elopements can be simpler, that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on some key vendors:
Florist for a (small) bouquet/boutonniere automatically adds specialness to your outfits.
HMUA if you are getting ready indoors or have them join us on the adventure (Bonus, they can double as a witness if needed!)
Photographer/Videography to document the crap out of your day!
Wedding Planner (optional) to keep all the little details on track and to help with any special setups such as a nice dinner table for your celebratory meal or a special arch for your ceremony.
5) Outfits
This is a special day and you deserve to splurge on an outfit that makes you feel amazing! Keep your outfit appropriate for your location so that you are comfortable for the entire day.
Your outfits are also not limited to what you’re wearing when you exchange your vows. Consider a getting-ready outfit or a post-dinner chill-by-the-fire outfit.
Final thoughts
Remember to have fun. This is a celebration after all and although there are not as many details to consider, the point is to still have fun and enjoy this engagement period leading up to your best day ever!
With a little bit of planning and creativity, your elopement in BC can be a truly unforgettable experience that celebrates your love in a way that's authentic and a true reflection of who you are
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