Just as every couple’s story is unique, so is their wedding day, especially when it comes to the ceremony. The ceremony sets the tone for the entire celebration. It’s something to plan early, requiring a stunning venue that complements the couple’s personality and vision. Finding the perfect location that reflects the couple’s tastes and wedding theme is crucial. Here are five fantastic options for wedding ceremonies in Calgary and its surroundings, detailed on calgarynka.
1. Deane House City Garden
Deane House, located at the corner of 9th Avenue and 6th Street S.E., was built in 1906 as the residence of Captain Richard Burton Dean, the last superintendent of the Royal Northwest Mounted Police. In 1929, the house was relocated to Inglewood near the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, a historic gathering site for Indigenous peoples. After the move, Deane House operated as a boarding house.
The house has a history of unusual deaths, including accidents, suicides, and even a murder-suicide in 1952 involving Irma and Roderick Amperville, leaving behind stories of hauntings. Visitors have reported paranormal experiences, from the scent of tobacco in a no-smoking house to unexplained piano music and recurring blood stains in the attic.
Renovated in 2015 by the Fort Calgary Preservation Society, the property was reimagined in 2016 by Sal Howell, founder of River Café, as a seasonal, sustainable restaurant. The garden and river views make Deane House a charming outdoor wedding venue. Guests can enjoy a cozy ceremony with dining options in the restaurant or tea on the veranda, adding a mystical charm to the celebration.
2. Riverside at Lynnwood Ranch
Located just 15 minutes south of Calgary, Lynnwood Ranch offers a serene riverside setting along the Sheep River. Known for hosting corporate events, Christmas parties, and more, it features expansive open spaces for horse-drawn hayrides, volleyball, and horseshoe pits. This venue is ideal for rustic or vintage-themed weddings. Guests can enjoy the tranquil sounds of the river and fresh mountain air, with nature providing the perfect decor. The ranch offers all-inclusive wedding services, unique photo backdrops, and customizable setups.
3. Saskatoon Farm
In the late 1980s, Paul and Karen Hamer transformed a barren barley field at the confluence of the Highwood and Sheep Rivers in Foothills County into Saskatoon Farm. Over three decades, they poured their hearts into creating a lush farm with handcrafted landscapes and structures. The farm features greenhouses, unique gift shops, a farm-to-table restaurant with an outdoor patio, a seasonal farmer’s market, and scenic wedding ceremony sites. Options range from a lattice-covered arbor to hilltop views of the valley or the greenhouse itself, offering a picturesque and intimate setting.
4. Azuridge Estate Hotel
Situated 20 km from Calgary in the foothills, this luxury estate boasts a tranquil setting among the rolling hills. Built in 1997 by entrepreneur Mogens Smed, Azuridge features floor-to-ceiling windows in its main hall, offering stunning views of the foothills. Named after Alberta’s bright blue skies resembling azurite, this estate combines serene natural beauty with luxury. Opened to the public in 2012, Azuridge is a popular venue for milestone celebrations. Weddings can be held outdoors or indoors, with the estate offering hotel rooms, banquet halls, and meeting spaces. The venue ensures guest comfort with UV-C lighting technology, which eliminates 99.9% of bacteria. Rooms and common areas are meticulously sanitized for safety and cleanliness.
5. Sky360 Lounge
Located atop the Calgary Tower, this revolving restaurant provides breathtaking views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. With exquisite cuisine, award-winning wines, exceptional service, and contemporary design, Sky360 Lounge is an unforgettable venue for hosting events, including wedding ceremonies. These venues, each unique in their own way, offer stunning backdrops to create cherished wedding memories for couples in Calgary and its surrounding areas.