West Coast Elopement - Lesley + Ryan

When you’ve found your person and can’t wait for the “big wedding”, you elope with your immediate family!

Choosing their location

When Ryan was younger, he and his friends discovered Whytecliff Park kinda by accident. They spent the afternoon enjoying the sun and hanging out on the little islet, enjoying the summer vibes..

Little did they know that the tide came in as night approached, leaving them stranded on the island overnight.

Thankfully it was summer so it was a warm night and they were able to spend the night on the islet semi-comfortably, and get back to the car  the next morning and make it home safely.

But ever since then, Whytecliff has held a special place in Ryan’s heart so it was an easy choice when they were looking for places to tie the knot.

Something for just them

Lesley + Ryan technically met in high school, but neither was brave enough to admit they had a crush on each other. 

So when they reconnected a couple of years ago, they instantly knew they had finally found their soulmate.

Although they are planning a big wedding in 2025 with all their loved ones, they couldn’t wait to be married. So they planned a short and sweet elopement just for them!

Surrounded by immediate family, including their 7 kids combined, they exchanged vows on the terrace at Whytecliff Park. Perfect with a peekaboo window to the ocean and the islet that Ryan spent the night on..

Planning your West Coast elopement

Each city/town has its own permits, bylaws and rules for getting married in public places. Be sure to check with the city you plan to get married in.

Permits

West Vancouver offers two types of wedding permits for a select few parks.

A non-exclusive permit valid for an hour at a few parks in West Van, or an exclusive permit valid only at Whytecliff Park and gives you a 3 hour window.

Officiant

You can find a marriage commissioner in BC based on your region, or you can go with a more bespoke, custom option with a company like Young Hip and Married.

Witnesses

In BC, you need 2 officiants to sign your marriage license. If you’re choosing to have a just-us experience, my hubby + second shooter Dennis and I are more than happy to be your witnesses.

Planning to elope? Looking for a photographer?

I’d love to chat! Head over to my elopements pricing page where I break down what’s included in each of my packages, what to expect working with me and super fun add-ons! Click the button below to learn more!