So you’re ready to say “I do”—woohoo! Planning a wedding in Calgary is a little like preparing for one of our famous weather swings: exciting, full of surprises, and maybe a bit wild. But with the right steps, you’ll be off to a smooth start. Here’s your guide to kicking off the Calgary wedding planning, from nailing down a venue to locking in those must-have vendors.
- Pick a Date (or at Least a Season!)
Calgary has four unique seasons, each with its own vibe—and yes, you’re still bound to get at least one surprise snow shower. Here’s a quick seasonal cheat sheet:
– Summer: Warm weather, long days, and the prime wedding season. Perfect if you don’t mind sharing the date with a few other summer brides and grooms.
– Fall: Gorgeous colors and cozy vibes, with fewer crowds at top venues.
– Winter: Magical for sure, and bonus points if you’re dreaming of a snowy backdrop.
– Spring: Fresh blooms and all the feelings of new beginnings—just expect a bit of “anything goes” weather.
Once you settle on a time of year, pick a couple of dates and stay a bit flexible. You’re in Calgary, after all, so sometimes the mountains (or vendors) will decide for you.
- Set That Budget—and Be Realistic!
Money talks may not be the most fun part, but they’ll make the rest of your planning so much easier. Knowing where to allocate your funds helps you get clear on what matters most—whether it’s a fancy venue, incredible food, or a dreamy photo package. You can make just about any budget work, so start with a maximum number you want to spend and go from there. (As a place to start, an average 100 person wedding in Calgary costs $38,000) This number then might dictate how fancy you go, how many guests you invite, etc.
And remember, just because something looks amazing on Instagram doesn’t mean it has to be a must-have. Your wedding, your rules!
- Book Your Venue Early
Once you’ve got your budget, it’s time to hunt down your dream venue! Calgary has it all: mountain resorts, trendy lofts, traditional ballrooms—you name it. Here are a few hot spots to consider:
– Downtown Venues: The Hudson, Hotel Arts, and the Fairmont Palliser all bring style and convenience.
– Mountain Views: Just an hour away, Canmore and Banff venues bring those postcard-perfect mountain vibes.
– Hidden Gems: Calgary Zoo, the Glenmore Sailing Club, and a few local breweries give you unique options beyond the usual.
It’s no secret that popular spots fill up fast, so snagging your venue early will give you a leg up (and let you brag about that prime location).
If you want to know more about venues, I have this page dedicated to top venues I like to photograph at here
- Sort Out Your Ceremony Site (if Separate)
If your heart is set on saying “I do” in a special location separate from your reception, now’s the time to reserve it. Calgary’s parks, historic churches, and hidden city spots can all make for beautiful settings. Just remember, if you’re going with an outdoor spot like Prince’s Island Park or Fish Creek, check on any permits you might need.
-
-
Your photographer and videographer are the pros who’ll capture every candid, laugh, and tear, so get them booked early! Calgary’s top photographers tend to fill up fast, especially for summer dates. Find someone who shares your style and vibe—you’ll want to be totally comfortable with the person who’s going to be right there on your big day.
And if you’re planning to hit up any mountain spots for photos, ask for a photographer who knows their way around nature. Your best angles with those killer backdrops are worth it!
- Draft That Guest List & Send Save-the-Dates
Even a rough guest list helps with some early planning decisions (like whether your aunt will need an extra chair for her service dog). Plus, once you have a list, you can send out those save-the-dates and help out-of-towners start booking flights early—Calgary’s not the easiest place to just “swing by,” after all.
- Prepare for Calgary’s Famous “Anything Goes” Weather
Whether it’s sunshine or snowflakes, Calgary’s weather always keeps you guessing. If you’re doing an outdoor ceremony, make sure you have a solid backup plan. Tents, covered spaces, or an indoor option can help keep your guests comfy no matter what Mother Nature decides. If you’re heading to the mountains, don’t be shy about keeping a few umbrellas and blankets on hand, just in case.
- Add Some Local Flavor to Your Day
From Alberta beef to mountain wildflowers, adding a bit of Calgary flavor to your wedding gives it a personal touch. Talk to your florist about blooms that handle Calgary’s climate like champs, or consider local dishes for your menu. And if you’re down for a late-night poutine bar? Even better. Local touches are a great way to make the day feel uniquely “you” and a nod to the city that means so much to you.
-
- Gather Your Vendor Dream Team
A great team of local vendors makes all the difference. You’ll want a group of pros who can take your ideas and run with them:
– Planner or Coordinator: If this all feels like a lot, they’ll be your rock to keep you sane (and on schedule).
– Florist: They know the local flowers that hold up best and can even add some Alberta flair to your arrangements.
– Caterer: Foodie or not, you’ll be happy with a menu that your guests will talk about well after dessert.
Look for vendors who feel as excited about your vision as you are. And don’t be afraid to lean on their local know-how—they’ve been there, done that, and they’ll have tips you might never think of. If you are looking for some referrals, I have a list of trusted vendors I like to work with here.
- Don’t Forget the Marriage License!
This one might not be glamorous, but it’s a must. Swing by any Alberta registry office for a license (valid for 90 days). Once that’s checked off, find an officiant who gets your style and can lead a ceremony that’s totally “you.” The paperwork part is quick, but getting an officiant who’ll create a meaningful, unforgettable ceremony? That’s priceless.
Final Thoughts
Starting your wedding planning in Calgary doesn’t have to be a stressful scramble. Start with the big stuff—date, venue, budget—and let the rest fall into place. Remember to lean on local experts who know Calgary’s quirks, and don’t forget to add those little touches that make it feel like *your* day.
Enjoy this journey, embrace the process, and know that, come rain or shine, you’ll have an unforgettable day filled with love, laughter, and all the best Calgary has to offer. Happy planning!
Send me an e-mail if you have any other questions about the wedding planning process, I would be happy to help!
Shannon (she/her)
