Lakeside Wedding Venues in BC: Serene Spots for a Peaceful Celebration
For couples dreaming of a tranquil and scenic wedding, British Columbia’s lakeside venues offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and serene ambiance. From breathtaking views of the Okanagan and Vancouver Island to luxurious accommodations, BC’s lakeside venues provide a peaceful yet stunning backdrop for a wedding day. Whether you envision a romantic outdoor ceremony by the water or a cozy indoor reception overlooking the lake, these venues offer a range of options to suit every couple’s style.
In this article, we will explore some of the best lakeside wedding venues in British Columbia, including Pemberton’s Big Sky Golf Club, Sparkling Hill Resort overlooking Okanagan Lake, and Laurel Point Inn in Victoria. We’ll also discuss styling tips for lakeside weddings and how to make the most of waterfront photo opportunities.
Best Lakeside Wedding Venues in British Columbia
1. Big Sky Golf Club, Pemberton
Located just outside of Whistler in the charming town of Pemberton, Big Sky Golf Club is surrounded by majestic mountains and sits on the edge of a tranquil lake. This venue offers a serene, natural setting for couples looking for a rustic yet elegant wedding. The golf course and lakefront backdrop provide a stunning setting for outdoor ceremonies, while the modern clubhouse is perfect for intimate receptions.
Venue Highlights:
Lakeside ceremony options with stunning mountain views.
Beautifully manicured grounds and modern amenities.
Ideal for outdoor weddings with breathtaking natural scenery.
Best For: Couples seeking a relaxed, rustic wedding with a mountain and lake backdrop.
2. Sparkling Hill Resort, Vernon (Okanagan Lake)
Sparkling Hill Resort, located in Vernon and overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Okanagan Lake, is a luxurious and unique venue perfect for couples wanting a mix of tranquility and opulence. Known for its world-class spa and wellness center, this resort provides an elegant setting for a lakeside wedding with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, making it ideal for weddings of any size.
Venue Highlights:
Spectacular views of Okanagan Lake from the ceremony site.
Luxury accommodations and spa services for the wedding party and guests.
Options for intimate or grand weddings with customizable event packages.
Best For: Couples looking for a luxury lakeside wedding with a focus on relaxation and wellness.
3. Laurel Point Inn, Victoria
Situated on the waterfront in Victoria, Laurel Point Inn is an elegant and modern venue offering panoramic views of the harbor and the city skyline. This venue is ideal for couples who want to combine a peaceful lakeside atmosphere with the convenience of an urban setting. The beautiful outdoor garden and terrace spaces are perfect for intimate ceremonies, while the sleek, modern interiors offer a stylish option for receptions.
Venue Highlights:
Waterfront location with views of the harbor and surrounding landscapes.
Elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions.
Ideal for small, intimate weddings in the heart of Victoria.
Best For: Couples who want a waterfront wedding in an urban setting with access to all the amenities of the city.
How to Style a Lakeside Wedding with Nautical or Rustic Elements
Lakeside weddings lend themselves beautifully to themes that reflect the natural surroundings, such as nautical or rustic décor styles. Here are some ideas to help you style your lakeside wedding:
1. Nautical Theme
For couples who want to embrace a nautical theme, incorporating elements like navy and white color schemes, anchors, and rope accents can bring the lakeside setting to life. You can also include touches like seashells, lanterns, and driftwood to give your décor a seaside feel. Nautical-inspired signage, table settings, and even a boat arrival for the bride and groom can add to the charm.
Décor Ideas: Blue and white color palette, anchor-themed décor, rope details, and driftwood centerpieces.
2. Rustic Theme
For a more laid-back, nature-inspired look, opt for a rustic theme. Wooden signage, burlap table runners, and wildflower arrangements work well with the lakeside setting, blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature. String lights, vintage lanterns, and wooden barrels can be used to enhance the rustic vibe.
Décor Ideas: Wooden chairs and tables, wildflower centerpieces, lanterns, and burlap runners.
Tips for Making the Most of Waterfront Photo Opportunities
Lakeside venues provide stunning backdrops for wedding photos, with the natural beauty of the water, mountains, and surrounding greenery. To make the most of these photo opportunities, consider the following tips:
1. Take Advantage of Golden Hour
Golden hour, which occurs just before sunset, offers the best natural light for outdoor photos. The soft, warm light during this time can create breathtaking images, especially with the reflection of the water and the mountains in the background.
2. Use the Natural Scenery
Work with your photographer to incorporate the natural elements of the venue into your photos. Shots of the couple by the lake, standing on a dock, or framed by trees and mountains will create timeless and romantic images.
3. Plan for Multiple Locations
Lakeside venues often have multiple beautiful locations for photos, such as garden paths, waterfront docks, and forested areas. Plan your photo schedule to include a variety of backdrops that showcase the venue’s unique features.
British Columbia’s lakeside wedding venues offer a serene and stunning setting for couples seeking a peaceful yet beautiful celebration. Whether you choose the rustic charm of Big Sky Golf Club in Pemberton, the luxurious elegance of Sparkling Hill Resort overlooking Okanagan Lake, or the urban waterfront setting of Laurel Point Inn in Victoria, each venue provides the perfect backdrop for a lakeside wedding. By incorporating nautical or rustic elements into your décor and taking full advantage of the natural beauty for your photos, you can create a wedding day that is both memorable and magical.
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