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Bear & Joey
Victoria
INSPIRED BY SYDNEY, FOR VICTORIA
Nestled on the border of Downtown and Fairfield, Bear & Joey is your neighbourhood café, brunch, and meeting spot on Cook Street, Victoria B.C.
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- 30
- Moderate ($$)
Wedding Venues in Capital Regional District, Canada
Discover exceptional wedding venues in the Capital Regional District, where timeless elegance meets the wild beauty of the Pacific West Coast. This stunning region on Vancouver Island offers a breathtaking backdrop for any ceremony, from the historic grandeur of Victoria's architecture to the serene, natural landscapes of the Saanich Peninsula. Explore a diverse collection of settings to find the one that perfectly captures your story and vision for the big day.
Everything you need to know about weddings in
Getting Married in the Capital Regional DistrictVenue Costs & Popular StylesWeather & The Best SeasonsTransport & Accommodation
Known for its captivating blend of British colonial charm and rugged West Coast nature, the Capital Regional District is a truly romantic wedding destination. Victoria, the provincial capital, offers a fairytale setting with its historic buildings, beautiful Inner Harbour, and world-renowned gardens like Butchart Gardens.
Beyond the city, you'll find windswept coastlines in Sooke, rolling farmland in Saanich, and quaint seaside towns, each providing a unique atmosphere for your celebration.
The Legal Details
To legally marry in British Columbia, you must obtain a marriage licence, which is valid for three months. There is no required waiting period after you receive it.
- Requirements: Both individuals must be present to apply and show primary identification (like a birth certificate or passport).
- Ceremony: Your ceremony must be performed by a registered marriage commissioner or a religious representative and be witnessed by two people.
Wedding venue costs in the Capital Regional District vary widely based on the location, season, and guest count. You can expect venue rental fees to be a significant portion of your budget.
Average Costs:
- Intimate Venues (under 50 guests): $3,000 - $8,000
- Mid-Sized Venues (50-150 guests): $8,000 - $20,000+
- Exclusive-Use Estates & Luxury Hotels: Often starting from $25,000
These prices typically cover the basic rental, with catering, staffing, and rentals adding to the total cost.
Sought-After Venue Types:
- Historic Hotels & Manors: Grand ballrooms and timeless elegance found in properties like the Fairmont Empress or Hatley Castle.
- Oceanfront Settings: Venues offering panoramic views of the Salish Sea, from modern hotels to rustic waterfront lodges.
- Wineries & Cideries: Romantic and relaxed settings in the Saanich Peninsula, known for their beautiful grounds and local charm.
- Lush Gardens: Manicured gardens and private estates providing a naturally beautiful backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
The Capital Regional District boasts one of Canada's mildest climates, making it a desirable wedding location year-round. The region experiences dry, warm summers and mild, wetter winters with very little snow at sea level.
This temperate climate means that even in shoulder seasons, you can often plan for parts of your day to be outdoors, taking advantage of the stunning natural scenery.
A Seasonal Guide:
- Summer (June - August): Peak season. Expect long, sunny days and the warmest temperatures. This is the most popular time, so book venues well in advance.
- Autumn (September - October): A beautiful season with warm early-autumn days and vibrant fall colours. A great option with fewer tourists than summer.
- Spring (April - May): The region comes alive with blooming flowers, especially cherry blossoms. Weather can be mixed, but it's a stunning time for photos.
- Winter (November - March): The off-season offers the best value. Ideal for cozy, intimate indoor weddings at venues with fireplaces and dramatic coastal views.
Getting Here:
The region is easily accessible for out-of-town guests.
- By Air: Victoria International Airport (YYJ) has flights from across Canada and select US cities.
- By Sea: BC Ferries provides regular service from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay). The Victoria Clipper ferry runs directly from downtown Seattle to Victoria's Inner Harbour.
For guests travelling between ceremony and reception venues, consider chartering a bus, especially for locations outside the city centre.
Guest Accommodation:
The area offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget.
- Downtown Victoria: A concentration of major hotels, boutique inns, and apartment rentals, perfect for guests who want to be in the heart of the action.
- Saanich Peninsula: Charming B&Bs and inns near the airport, ferries, and local wineries.
- Westshore & Sooke: A mix of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals for guests seeking a more nature-focused stay.
It's wise to arrange a hotel room block for your guests, particularly during the busy summer tourist season.
FAQ's
What is the best time of year to get married in the Capital Regional District?
July and August offer the most reliable weather for outdoor weddings, with warm temperatures and minimal rain. However, the shoulder months of May, June, and September are also excellent choices, often featuring pleasant weather, beautiful spring blooms or autumn colours, and fewer tourists.
How far in advance should we book a wedding venue in Victoria and the surrounding area?
As a popular destination, it's recommended to book your venue 12-18 months in advance, especially for a Saturday during the peak summer season. For off-season dates or weekday weddings, you may find more flexibility and availability with a shorter lead time.
Do we need a permit to get married in a public park or on a beach?
Yes, for ceremonies in most public spaces like Beacon Hill Park or along the Dallas Road waterfront, you will typically need to secure a special event permit from the local municipality. Be sure to apply well in advance and check for specific regulations regarding guest numbers, decorations, and alcohol.
What are some unique local touches we can add to our wedding?
The region is renowned for its farm-to-table culinary scene. Incorporate local flavours with catering from area farms, feature wines from Saanich Peninsula vineyards, or serve craft beer and cider from local producers. Many florists also specialize in creating arrangements with native West Coast botanicals.
What transportation options should we consider for our guests?
If your venue is outside of downtown Victoria, such as in Sooke or on the Saanich Peninsula, arranging a shuttle service is a thoughtful gesture for your guests. The region is spread out, and while ride-sharing and taxis are available, a dedicated shuttle ensures everyone arrives on time and gets home safely.
Are there any noise restrictions we should be aware of?
Most municipalities in the Capital Regional District have noise bylaws that require outdoor amplified music to end by 10:00 PM. It's essential to confirm the specific rules with your venue, especially if you are planning an outdoor reception, to ensure your celebration complies with local regulations.
Explore 61 venues in Capital Regional District
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