My favourite unique wedding venues in Calgary, Banff & Alberta

In my last few years as an intimate wedding photographer shooting destinations like Banff and Jasper in and around the Alberta Rockies, I’ve been fortunate to spend a lot of time at some amazing wedding venues. While these might not be the most “hidden” of all the gems, a few are probably not the first to come to mind when considering a wedding venue in Calgary, Canmore or Banff National Park! I’ve tried to include a good variety here of unique venue options that are ideal for smaller, intimate weddings and elopements, as well as a few that are good for the larger wedding of your dreams. I created this list as a jumping off point to inspire you while you plan your intimate wedding in Calgary, Banff & The Alberta Rockies.

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25 unique wedding venues for calgary & alberta

1. The Valley Weddings

2. Roots & Roses

3. Archway Manor

4. The Norland Historic Estate

5. Storm Mountain Lodge

6. Creekside Villas

7. The Lake house

8. Emerald Lake Lodge

9. the hive art gallery

10. the commons, calgary

11. baker creek resort

12. pomeroy kananaskis

13. the crossing at ghost river

14. Gathered

15. The Plaza Theatre

16. The Little Church, Drumheller

17. The foundry room, edmonton

18. park by sidewalk citizen

    19. Glenmore sailing club

    20. Folk Tree Lodge

    21. the garret 

    22. the deane house

    23. rouge

    24. the coutts centre for western heritage

    25. cork & crate estates

Calgary, Banff & Alberta Wedding Venues

1. The valley weddings (central alberta)

maximum capacity?

188 guests + 14 at head table

ceremony site?

yes. outdoor - clear umbrellas provided if neccessary

rain plan?

ceremony can be moved to timber structure if needed. venue is primarily outdoors though.

is outside catering allowed?

YES

is outside alcohol allowed?

yes

curfew?

1 am (including tear down)

pet friendly?

yes (for the wedding couple)

is a coordinator required?

optional & not included

is there a getting ready space?

YES

accommodation options for guests?

Not on property. Camping & a local hotel located nearby.

2. roots & roses (cochrane)

maximum capacity?

100 guests

ceremony site?

yes. multiple outdoor locations to choose from.

rain/backup ceremony option?

clear span tent as a back up

is outside catering allowed?

YES

is outside alcohol allowed?

yes (with some considerations)

curfew?

2:00 am

pet friendly?

yes!

is a coordinator required?

not required. set up & tear down options available.

is there a getting ready space?

YES

accommodation options for guests?

not on property. Camping, airbnbs, & local hotel options nearby in cochrane.

3. archway manor (central alberta)

maximum capacity?

170 guests

ceremony site?

yes. outdoor ceremony space surrounded by beautiful spruce trees and a grand stone entrance.

rain/backup ceremony option?

yes! two options: covered terrace or inside the venue.

is outside catering allowed?

YES. can also provide recommendations.

is outside alcohol allowed?

 venue offers all inclusive bar packages.

curfew?

midnight

pet friendly?

ceremony only (leasheD).

is a coordinator required?

not required but planner is encouraged.

is there a getting ready space?

YES

accommodation options for guests?

cottage for couple. camping availble on site for guests.

4. the norland historic estate (lethbridge)

maximum capacity?

300 guests

ceremony site?

indoor and outdoor options available.

rain/backup ceremony option?

yes. including the ballroom, drawing room and  gazebo.

is outside catering allowed?

exclusive catering partner, LA Chefs Catering

is outside alcohol allowed?

corkage fee.

curfew?

2:00 am (1:00 am last call)

pet friendly?

ceremony only (except for service dogs)

is a coordinator required?

day of venue host included.

is there a getting ready space?

YES

accommodation options for guests?

wedding party access to 5 guest rooms.

5. Storm Mountain Lodge (banff)

Storm Mountain Lodge was where I photographed my first intimate winter elopement (and got my first feature!) ever, and it is still one of my favourite rustic wedding venues. The romantic log cabins at Storm Mountain Lodge are the perfect place to disconnect, each with their own wood burning fireplace, a picture-perfect front porch and my favourite - no wifi. If you are having a winter wedding or elopement you can snowshoe the many trails around the lodge itself, or during the summer maybe adventure down to the nearby Marble Canyon. The food served at the restaurant was mind blowing and I’m not sure it will ever be topped!

6. Creekside Villa (canmore)

I was really excited to hear about a cool new mountain venue being opened in Canmore a couple of years ago. In the span of a couple of weeks I photographed an amazing styled shoot and a stunning wedding at Creekside, and I was not disappointed. The venue itself is stunning with a lot of natural light and reclaimed wood walls which gives it an intimate and cosy, yet modern vibe. One of the great things about having your wedding at Creekside Villa is you can have the ceremony and reception all in one location - meaning more time for cocktails and visiting with your guests, rather than traveling between locations! The staff at this boutique hotel is flexible and accommodating to every need and are really lovely to work with. I hope to be back for a wedding soon!

7. The Lake House (calgary)

The Lake House is a special venue for me because I grew up in Lake Bonavista and spent my summers swimming and kayaking around the lake. Being able to photograph a wedding here was a highlight for me and it is one of the most romantic and . Not only is this venue stunning and one-of-a-kind in Calgary, it also has an incredible menu and an elegant interior. Not only that but the food is amazing. And for photos, the beautiful wrap around deck provides an amazing opportunity to get those magical golden hour portraits without having to travel anywhere.

8. Emerald Lake Lodge (Field, BC)

Emerald Lake Lodge is my favourite mountain wedding venue of all time and the first place I think of when I dream about escaping to the mountains, even though it’s technically in BC not Alberta. Whether you are eloping or planning a big party, this rustic lodge in Yoho National Park can do it all! The food served at their restaurant, Cilantro, won’t disappoint. But more importantly, at this lodge you really feel like you’ve been immersed in nature. Guests are shuttled onto the island so you will leave the sound of cars far behind. The smell of wood burning fire follows you around as you trek around the lake, taking in the turquoise waters and getting lost in the tall trees and trails that surround the shoreline.

9. The Hive (canmore)

The Hive is a lesser known venue in Canmore but it's perfect for an intimate wedding or a creative couple. It’s actually an art gallery but the space can easily be transformed into a bright and welcoming space for a seated dinner or if you are into a cocktail reception, then this is the perfect place for guests to wander and mingle. With a rooftop patio and catering options at your disposal, you can really transform this venue into the wedding of your dreams! I’m looking forward to being back here this summer.

10 .The Commons (calgary)

The Commons is a uniquely modern industrial venue in historic Inglewood in Calgary. While they don’t strictly do weddings (they are a coworking space during the day!), weddings are one thing they do exceptionally well. The ladies who run the show here are amazing to work with and will do whatever it takes to bring your vision to life. From a photographers standpoint, the vintage-industrial vibe of this space is something that not a lot of venues offer in Calgary and photographs like a dream!

11. Baker creek resort (Banff)

Here’s another adorable mountain cabin wedding venue in the Alberta Rockies which would be perfect for an intimate elopement! Baker Creek Resort is located a short 20 minute drive from Lake Louise, one of Alberta’s most photographed destinations for weddings. However, you don’t have to even leave the resort for amazing views and photo opportunities! With a number of charming cabins of all shapes and sizes scattered around the property as well as fire pits, hiking trails and the sense of peace that only comes from being surrounded by pine forests and mountain views, this is a dream location for a cosy, romantic elopement in Alberta.

12. pomeroy kananskis mountain lodge (kananaskis)

Alright, this one isn’t so much a specific venue (although the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge combined with the Kananaskis Nordic Spa would make for an epic place to stay the night of your wedding!) but rather about the benefits of eloping or having a micro wedding in Kananaskis as an alternative to Banff or Canmore. Kananaskis is full of incredible roadside mountain views and a short hike or a random pull off on the side of the road can lead to the perfect spot for your intimate wedding ceremony location in the Alberta Rockies. I’ve always dreamed of photographing an elopement at the Sundance Lodges Trappers Tents or at the bottom of one of the amazing waterfalls in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. Or have you ever considered a camping wedding at one of the many campgrounds in the area? As a nature lover these are all places that I would envision hosting my own wedding.

13. the crossing at ghost river (cochrane)

The Crossing at Ghost River is a charming retreat and event venue nestled on 145 acres along the banks of the Ghost River near Cochrane, Alberta. Known for its natural beauty and serene ambiance, The Crossing offers a unique blend of rustic elegance and modern comforts, making it a sought-after location for intimate weddings, retreats, and special events.

This secluded property provides stunning views of the surrounding foothills and river, with abundant wildlife and tranquil walking paths through forested areas. Couples can choose from a variety of scenic outdoor ceremony spots, including the riverside lawn, open meadows, and forest clearings, each offering a picturesque backdrop for exchanging vows. Indoors, The Crossing features warm, inviting spaces with elegant decor and natural wood accents, ideal for cozy receptions and gatherings.

With 27 comfortable guest rooms and on-site dining focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, The Crossing offers a full-service experience. Their staff works closely with each couple to create a customized wedding experience, from decor details to personalized menus, ensuring a memorable celebration in the heart of Alberta’s wilderness. For those seeking a quiet, nature-inspired venue that feels worlds away from the hustle of daily life, The Crossing at Ghost River offers a peaceful, refined setting for a truly special day.

14. Gathered (kathryn, ab)

Gathered in Kathryn, Alberta, is a unique and charming venue that captures the essence of rustic elegance, making it an ideal choice for intimate weddings and special events. Set against a backdrop of stunning prairies and rolling hills, this venue provides a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Gathered emphasizes local partnerships, sourcing many of its offerings from nearby artisans and producers, including catering options that highlight seasonal ingredients. The venue’s team is dedicated to providing personalized service, working closely with couples to ensure every detail aligns with their vision for their special day.

With its stunning scenery, intimate atmosphere, and commitment to creating memorable experiences, Gathered in Kathryn is a perfect venue for couples seeking a blend of rustic charm and modern elegance in a tranquil setting.

15. The Plaza Theatre (Calgary)

The Plaza Theatre, located in Calgary's historic Kensington District, is a charming and unique venue that offers a blend of vintage ambiance and modern amenities, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking an intimate wedding experience. Originally built in 1921, this beautifully restored theatre showcases stunning architectural details, including art deco elements, ornate ceilings, and a warm, inviting atmosphere that captivates guests.

The venue features a cozy auditorium that can accommodate small to medium-sized weddings, providing a distinctive backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions. Couples can exchange vows on stage or within the intimate seating area, surrounded by loved ones. The Plaza Theatre also offers flexible space options for dining and dancing, allowing couples to create a personalized layout that suits their celebration style.

With its rich history, stunning decor, and personalized service, the Plaza Theatre offers a one-of-a-kind setting for couples looking to celebrate their love in a unique, intimate atmosphere, creating lasting memories for both them and their guests.

16. The Little Church (Drumheller)

The Little Church in Drumheller, Alberta, is a delightful and unique venue that captures the essence of charm and intimacy, making it perfect for small weddings and elopements. Nestled in the heart of the stunning Badlands, this quaint chapel seats only six guests, providing an incredibly personal and memorable setting for couples looking to celebrate their love in a cozy atmosphere.

Constructed in 2006, The Little Church is designed with a rustic aesthetic, featuring beautiful wood accents and a picturesque white exterior that stands out against the dramatic landscape of Drumheller. Surrounded by iconic hoodoos and stunning rock formations, the venue offers breathtaking natural backdrops for wedding photography, ensuring that couples capture the essence of their special day.

The Little Church welcomes couples of all faiths and backgrounds, making it a versatile space for ceremonies. It provides a peaceful ambiance, allowing for heartfelt exchanges of vows. Additionally, the surrounding area offers a range of outdoor settings for additional celebrations or photography, perfect for couples who want to incorporate the stunning Badlands into their wedding experience.

For those seeking an intimate, offbeat venue that combines natural beauty with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, The Little Church in Drumheller is an unforgettable choice, creating lasting memories for couples and their loved ones.

17. The foundry room (edmonton)

18. park by sidewalk citizen (Calgary)

19. Glenmore sailing club (Calgary)

20. Folk Tree Lodge (Bragg Creek)

21. The Garret (Calgary)

22. The Deane House (Calgary)

23. Rouge (Calgary)

24. Redwood meadows community centre (bragg creek)

25. The Coutts Centre for western heritage (Nanton, ab)

26. cork & crate (olds, AB)

Whether you’re looking for an amazing mountain venue or a quirky urban venue, Banff, Calgary and Alberta are full of intimate and unique locations for you to hold the intimate wedding or elopement of your dreams. 

For more unique wedding venue ideas check out the links below!

Calgary is full of creatively styled restaurants, which makes it easy to give your wedding a unique vibe! I've done a ton of research for you and found the best options for restaurant wedding venues in Calgary. Check them out through the link below!