Thinking of a winter wedding? There’s no better place than Banff! Not only is Banff a winter wonderland, but it’s also a great place to enjoy yourself in endless ways. In this post, I’ll explain why Banff is the ultimate location to walk down the aisle.
Although getting married in the summer may seem more appealing, saying “I do” in Banff in the winter is a fantastic option for many reasons. Before we dive in, it’s good to know that Banff’s winter period lasts from November to March.
Furthermore, Banff is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, with Sunshine Village, Lake Louise and Norquay Mountain. So if you and your guests are looking for adventure, there’s plenty to be had.
And if you’re just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life for your wedding, Banff is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones.
Banff is also the perfect place to host your winter wedding when you’re looking for a little bit of both or something in between. There is, therefore, something for everyone’s preferences, regardless of how you would like to host your wedding.
Without further ado, let’s have a look at the ins and outs of a Banff wedding in winter.
Why Choose a Winter Wedding in Banff?
The answer to that question is the most important, of course. Well, there are several good reasons. Here we go:
1. First of all, the snow-capped mountains, white forests and frozen lakes create a magical setting straight out of a fairytale. Who wouldn’t want decor like that during their wedding day and say “I do”?
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Banff is one of the most scenic places in the world, and it looks perhaps even more beautiful when covered in snow.
2. Getting married in Banff in winter is a unique experience that you and your guests will remember forever. Everyone will be impressed by the park’s splendor, guaranteed!
3. It’s a great way to escape the busyness of the wedding season. If you’re looking for a more intimate and low-key wedding, getting married in Banff in winter is a great option.
Though the summertime crowds are long gone, don’t anticipate having Banff all to yourself. As winter sports enthusiasts take over Banff, it’s still rather busy.
4. Getting married in Banff in winter means prices are most likely a bit cheaper, so it can be a great way to save money on a wedding in the park. Winter is generally a slower season for weddings, so you may be able to get a discount on venues and vendors.
Just try to avoid the holidays. Around Christmas, prices soar, and you’ll pay as much as in the summer high season.
5. If you and your guests are looking for a little adventure, you can hit the slopes for a day or two. Or, if you’d prefer to just relax, there are plenty of possibilities in this area as well.
What to Keep in Mind for a Winter Wedding in Banff
If you’re considering a winter wedding in Banff, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Banff can be a freezing place in winter, so ensure you and your guests are prepared for the cold weather.
2. Banff can be busy in winter, so book your wedding venues and vendors well in advance. The same goes for hotel rooms, and lift tickets if you plan to go skiing with your guests.
3. Think about your photoshoot location well in advance and how to get there. Due to snow and ice, getting to your desired location in the park might be impossible or at least more difficult.
4. Together with your photographer, carefully plan your photo session. It will be chilly or downright cold unless you’re fortunate enough to have a pleasant chinook wind blowing through the Rockies on your wedding day.
TIP: Hire a photographer familiar with Banff and the Rockies. He’ll know how to keep you warm during your session. He’ll probably have some splendid ideas about good locations as well!
Still need to propose? How about reading about the 10 most romantic proposal locations in Banff?
What Are the Pros and Cons of a Wedding in Banff in Winter?
A wedding in Banff in winter can be a wonderful and magical event. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Pros
- One of the advantages of having a winter wedding in Banff is the scenery. The snow-covered mountains and frozen lakes provide a stunning backdrop for photos and memories that will last a lifetime.
- Another advantage is that Banff is a mecca for skiing and snowboarding in winter, so guests can enjoy the slopes by day and the wedding festivities by night.
- Many breathtaking hiking trails are perfect for exploring with your new spouse. However, a few potential drawbacks to consider when planning a Banff winter wedding.
- Another plus side to a Banff winter wedding is the activities and attractions available to guests. I’m talking nightlife here as well. Banff has many bars, cafes and restaurants to enjoy an evening to never forget.
There are so many fun and festive ways to make your wedding unique. Serve hot chocolate during the cocktail hour, or plan a fun activity like ice skating or sledding for your guests. Embracing the chilly weather will make your wedding truly unforgettable.
Cons
- The most significant and obvious disadvantage is the weather. While the scenery may be gorgeous, Banff can be very cold in the winter, so your guests must be prepared for frigid temperatures.
- Another disadvantage is that, due to the weather, you need to think of alternative photoshoot locations. The weather in the Rockies is unpredictable, especially in winter. It might be the case that your desired location has become inaccessible.
- If you plan on having an outdoor ceremony, plan ahead and have a backup indoor location in case of bad weather.
Is a Banff Wedding in Winter Truly Cheaper than in Summer?
While you might think a winter wedding in Banff would be cheaper than one in the summer – and it very well may be – that’s not always the case.
Many venues and vendors offer discounts during the winter, but not all of them do. You’ll need to shop around and compare prices to see if you can get a better deal during the winter.
What Are the Best Winter Wedding Photography Locations?
There are so many gorgeous locations you can’t go wrong. The natural landscapes that the town and its surroundings provide serve as Banff’s top winter wedding photography sites in general. With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, there are plenty of places to get some stunning shots.
To give you some ideas: You can go for a romantic walk around Lake Louise, get some great photos by the Bow River, Vermilion Lakes or Two Jack Lake, or even hike in the backcountry to get some truly unique images.
Whatever you decide, you’ll surely get some fantastic photos you’ll cherish forever.
And remember: always consult your photographer because he or she might know of places you would have never considered.
What Are the Best Hotels to Stay in Winter During Your Wedding?
The best hotels to stay at in Banff in winter during your wedding are the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Fairmont Château Lake Louise and the Rimrock Resort Hotel.
These hotels offer great views of the surrounding mountains, elegant facilities, and top-notch service to make your wedding day perfect.
At the same time, these hotels are the park’s most expensive. There are dozens and dozens of hotels to choose from, so you’ll be able to find plenty of less costly options.
Castle Mountains Chalets is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more intimate setting. However, it’s 40 kilometers (25 mi) from Banff, along the Bow Valley Parkway.
Regardless of your budget, I’d advise you to look into alternatives before booking anything. This way, you’ll have a better idea of the area and whether or not you enjoy the hotel and its services.
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