MONTREAL’S BEST ELOPEMENT AND SMALL WEDDING VENUES
Updated for the 2021-22 Wedding Season!
FYI! If you are looking for more information on Montreal Elopements, click here to read my Montreal Elopement Photography Guide.
The wedding trend is clear: couples are opting for intimate and unique wedding venue ideas with big impact as we head into new territory and ever-changing rules with the pandemic.
One thing I learned from photographing weddings in 2020: don’t postpone your wedding too quickly (wait a month before your date if you have to!), get flexible and creative and don’t put your life on hold. No client was able to predict when things would open up or shut down when they postponed their weddings last year - all those Spring weddings that moved to the Fall? Got postponed again.
What I also learned is that pivoting is possible at the last minute, thanks to this wedding at Le Cafe de L’Horloge; and that backyard weddings can be elegant and F U N, as this wedding in Ottawa proved; and renting an airbnb with a stunning view might just get your wedding voted as one of the Most Inspiring Micro-Weddings of 2020 and published in several outlets.
So here are a few suggestions in how you can elope or have a small wedding inside Montreal & surrounding areas in Ontario & Quebec. Please note that you should be working within Provincial guidelines for gatherings which continue to change, please visit this link for gatherings in Quebec here and since I am mentioning some spots in Ontario, visit this link for their regulations.
PAVILLON DE LA JAMAIQUE (THE JAMAICA PAVILION)
Located just a hop, skip and jump away from downtown Montreal the Jamaica Pavilion is an ideal wedding venue for the smaller wedding sizes. The giant willow tree is a a perfect canopy to get married under as the sun twinkles through its boughs in the afternoon sun.
As mentioned above, the proximity of this wedding venue to Downtown Montreal and it’s access to lush gardens and city skyline views, give couples a little bit of everything on their wedding day — bathed in natural light — the best light that fine art wedding photographers look for in all their shots.
I have shot a wedding here before (you can see Jacqueline & Rich’s story on the Montreal Wedding Blog here) and last year I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at La Toundra (it’s larger neighbor) which shares access to the variety of gardens available. You can see the La Toundra Wedding here.
Want to talk about your wedding photography at the Jamaica Pavilion? Send me a message here.
MOnTREAL RESTAURANTS & TERRAcES
Our restaurants have really taken a hit this year during the pandemic and the ones that have managed to survive have found ways in which they can host a variety of their services online. Here are a few restaurants I urge you to look at when planning your smaller, more intimate wedding — you can go small with BIG impact with your guests. I’ve chosen a few without a terrace, and tried to find a few that could host a wedding outside if the restrictions require it!
Taverne Atlantic — owners of the Dominion Taverne have created an intimate and modern rooftop space that’s worth looking into!
Grenade Bar — situated near Park La Fontaine, their website described themselves as an “oriental brewery” with an outdoor pond — a hidden oasis unknown to many, including myself until I started doing research for this section. I will definitely be visiting when things re-open!
Santropol — can you even say you’ve lived in Montreal without having a sandwich at Santropol? As a student in the early aughts this was a frequent spot with a beauty of a garden in the back, so close to Parc Mount-Royal. Worth exploring for those with an achilles for healthy samwiches & nostalgia.
Pub Le Ste Elisabeth — I used to love bringing friends from out of town to this courtyard terrace — those big brick walls covered in vines are instant ambience. I would love to see a wedding happen here.
Beatrice — have your garden brought to you indoors with ceilings that open up to fresh air and night sky views in this beautiful spot
Jatoba — a similar look & feel to Beatrice with skylighted ceilings brings the outdoors inside with this intimate venue
McKiernan — I live in this area and I am a big fan of Joe Beef/Liverpool House/McKiernan because of their food & intimate spaces. Specifically with McKiernan, you have so much light from the old industrial loft windows and all the personality of a cozy space without feeling cramped.
Joe Beef/Liverpool House/Vin Papillon — just down the road from my home, these three famed restaurants all in a row open up into three garden terraces with heated lamps, definitely worth looking into for a small intimate gathering to celebrate your montreal elopement!
L’ELOI
Located in the mile-end of Montreal, Productions L’Eloi took an old industrial loft and updated it just enough to be the perfect photographer’s studio space. The owners thought outside the box with the great idea to open the studio up to host the smaller, more intimate wedding gatherings. This wedding venue has an open airy quality to it with an ambience of sleek design mixed with old industrial architecture — offering up a unique and charming experience to any wedding guest in attendance.
I realize that technically this is mostly an indoor wedding space, but it makes it onto my Outdoor Wedding Venue list because of it’s beautiful rooftop and how much sunlight bathes through its windows. You don’t really feel like you’re inside, even if you are.
If you’d like to see more from this wedding pictured above — visit this “Classic Black & White Wedding” blog post here.
Are you planning a unique intimate wedding (or elopement) at L’Eloi? Reach out and tell me about it here.
Montreal hotels with Gardens & TerRaCes
Don’t overlook the idea of getting married in a hotel in Montreal — especially those who have gorgeous terraces that host incredible views of the city. I’ve tried to compile a list here of spaces that would accommodate weddings with guest counts under 50 people and have access to a rooftop or garden space!
If you’re considering (or have booked) a wedding in one of these spots then I would love to photograph it:
Downtown Montreal HOTEL VENUES
Hotel Birks - I lied, this hotel does not boast an outdoor rooftop or garden space, but I imagine this hotel a perfect space for the truly small weddings (under 20 people) but are looking to invest in an timeless experience. This recent re-design by hotel visionary Jean Salette (from the hotels St-Martin) brings out the best of french brasserie and refined luxury — this hotel is a spot to indulge, splurge and pamper your newly married selves in. Get small and get creative with this space — and invite me to the party!
Marcus Terrace at the Four Seasons Hotel - Chef Marcus Samuelsson has opened up an open & airy terrace in downtown Montreal, bringing traditional brasserie charm with delicious view of the city
Le Centre Sheraton - newly renovated with a private terrace with views of Mont-Royal and the city, this hotel has a lot of modern charm and elegance. I photographed a wedding where the groom & his groomsmen got ready in one of the rooms here and we took some fun photos on the terrace! Go take a look at Ben & Kelci’s wedding here.
Hotel Bonaventure - don’t overlook this uniquely modern hotel right by Central Station in Montreal — recently refurnished by Lemay Michaud — there is a beautiful central garden and pool overlooking the city with a lot of pockets of interesting light & views designed throughout the hotel. It holds a very 1960s modernist aesthetic with all the updates to keep us comfortable now.
Hotel Fairmount The Queen Elizabeth: Espace C2 - I recently photographed a corporate event in this space and it’s a beauty of a spot with a lot of rooftop light inside and outside of the hotel. A lot of interesting pockets throughout the floor to split up your ceremony, to cocktail hour, to reception without too much hassle. Definitely pay this spot a visit!
Le Mount Stephen Hotel: if you’re looking for something on the moodier more traditionally Scottish and neo-renaissance, then consider the reception rooms of this hotel. They host an impactful juxtaposition of lush carpeting and stain-glassed windowed hallways against a contemporary, bright, series of hotel suites recently re-built in the hotel. While they do not have a terrace or garden, you’re in the heart of downtown with a lot of fun couple walks you can take. There’s also a pretty park just down the road. You do not want to miss cocktails at Bar George adjacent to their lobby. A must see, just even for the sausage rolls and pints! You can see Stefania & Colin’s cocktail wedding at this venue here.
Old Port - Old Montreal HOTEL VENUES
Hotel William Gray - a relatively new and unique luxury spa hotel in the heart of Old Montreal with beautiful view on its rooftop terrace. This venue is light, bright and with luxuriously modern furnishings.
Auberge du Vieux Port - with distinctive charm and a quaint rooftop this hotel mixes traditional with elegance in Old Montreal.
Hotel Nelligan - classic old with the comforts of new this hotel is considered one of Montreal’s favorite rooftops for cocktail hour. For some bride & groom photos taken in Old Montreal, visit Audrey & Shahid’s wedding here.
Le Saint Sulpice - private balconies, garden terrace, luxurious lobby and old world charm all encapsulate the charm of this boutique hotel located just a stone’s throw away from the Notre Dame Basilica.
Plateau/Mont-Royal Area HOTEL VENUES
Hotel 10 - situated on the corner of Sherbrooke and St-Denis (across from the JFL offices) this spot has such unique design features and a dining area that opens up into a garden - a perfect hotel for couples looking for a more unique space.
If you’re getting married in one of these hotels and want to pick my brain - send me a quick message through my wedding services submissions form here!
Private Homes & Renting an Airbnb
People are getting very creative this year in making the rules work in their favor to get married their way. Do not discount the magic of getting married at home! (Or in someone else’s home & backyard!)
Here are a few weddings I have photographed in Private Homes & Airbnb Rentals:
this simple yet elegant garden wedding located in the Rockliffe neighborhood of Ottawa: lucky with the pandemic rules loosening at the start of summer and perfect weather with city fireworks just down the road!
this wedding with stunning view of the Malbaie in Charlevoix was published in Wedding Bells Magazine, Mariage Quebec, and Rangefinder Magazine. They went from 120 guests to 20 and don’t regret a single decision they made.
this wedding at an event-based airbnb in Low, Quebec situated on 750 acres of land and expansive views, organized in less than 30 days, proved to be ahead of it’s time in 2019 — they would have had no problem having the same wedding in 2020.
this micro-wedding at the bride’s ancestral century old home in Otterburn Park (taken pre-pandemic)
Given this growing trend, I spent some time researching some formidable airbnb’s that would be perfect to rent for a wedding outside of Montreal. I have not inquired further with the owners but definitely worth doing if this speaks to you! I have a couple of them slated for my 2021 season and can’t wait to see how they unfold!
Eastern Townships AIRBNB VENUES
Sugar Hill Retreat - a top of a hill looking out at 160 acres of land is this grand, yet cozy, cabin - well equipped for 16+ guests with ten bedrooms
Meadowlands - big pool, expansive fields, cozy blues, and a view of the water in this French Country feeling estate. Also equipped with horses stable, lakeside dock and guest cottage!
Domaine Chateau Venise en formule Chalets - breathtaking gardens, expansive forest, waterfront views, and a series of condo type accommodations with billiards, cinema and central spaces to gather and celebrate your wedding!
Manoir Greenwood - for those of you looking for a more farmhouse feel to your wedding, this space is equipped with barrels of charm, a pool and an expanse of fields just ready to be photographed by someone like me ;)
Laurentians AIRBNB VENUES
Camp Bruchesi - sleepaway camp style with outdoor teepee areas for the outdoorsy couples looking for a unique venue they can dress up as their own. A lot of potential for fun and creating great wedding memories at this venue!
Manoir Viking - built in the style of Norwegian country home, you could even fly your own helicopter to this space! Heli-pad aside, think about striking up a match of tennis pre-wedding, relaxing in a spa, taking a dip in the pool while admiring the well-manicured gardens and views of the lake.
Heart of Tremblant/Ski/Lakefront Cabin - one of the best I have found that encapsulated the classic Quebec chalet without skimping on charm, space, views or comfortable furnishings. A beautiful space to get married all year round.\
Les Refuges Perches - let’s hike out to one of these incredible cabins built in the treetops. Definitely for the adventurous, outdoorsy, couples who are looking for a wedding more intimate, raw and surrounded in nature. No doubt an experience you both will never forget.
Charlevoix & St-Lawrence (Quebec) AIRBNB VENUES
Les Terrasses Cap a L’Aigle - prompted by one of my couples this year, I am really looking forward to experiencing these villas this summer. Definitely give each of these unique villas some admiration and consider retreating here to celebrate your wedding with majestic views of Quebec and the St-Lawrence river! The Malbaie is one of Quebec’s most beautiful areas.
Le St-Laurent - located 15 minutes away from Le Massif, this is a newly built and beautifully designed contemporary cottage with cozy fireside views of the St-Lawrence.
Les Domes du Charlevoix - this would be for the more adventurous, outdoorsy couple looking to elope without too much fanfare with a unique dome to cozy up in at the end of your wedding day. Truly, this would be a unique spot to get married to call your own.
Villa Marvic - I adore this space, something so impactful in the way they have furnished this home with a wood-burning fireplace. And those views by the pool? Breathtaking.
ONTARIO AIRBNB VENUE IDEAS
Prince Edward County, Thousand Islands and Muskokas are rife with cottages and retreats built for small wedding celebrations. Here are a few I found.
Elysium - Modern Muskoka Retreat - a magical blend of stylish warmth and coziness on the inside, with pristine nature and stunning lake vistas on the outside.
Additionally, these owners can help you plan for Catering, Private Chef, Yoga, Massage, Cooking Classes, Transportation, and more!Island Paradise on Totem Point in the Thousand Islands - one of the most unique properties I have stumbled on in my search for your unique wedding day. This cottage looks like it was built in the height of the modernist movement and the landscape that it is surrounded by is what really builds on it’s charm. Looking for a boathouse to sleep in? Check.
14 Bedroom Mansion in the Heart of Prince Edward County - If you’re into Victorian Revival with a full-staffed house, this is your jam. This is definitely my jam, too! The wallpaper alone deserves a celebration. This is for someone who is looking to invest big in impactful small celebrations. Luxury at its finest!
The Wilk - located in Wellington, surrounded by nearby vineyards, an expanse of Ontario farmland and gorgeous sunsets, this spot has been a dog-eared bookmark of mine to someday book and stay here. Definitely a great spot to get married in with your nearest & dearest.
The Ferg - created by the same designers as The Wilk, The Ferg is located in the heart of Picton, Ontario. The beauty of this location is its proximity to town, its farmhouse feel, and it’s ability to be split in different ways for privacy and accommodation. Intense on charm!
Le Peaches & Cream - this is actually located in Quebec, but it’s proximity to my hometown Ottawa always makes me feel like it’s more Ontario. As mentioned above, I photographed a wedding here last September and it’s 700 acres are rife with beautiful spots to take photographs with each other and your guests.
Are you planning a wedding in your home, your backyard or an airbnb? I would love to talk to you! I have packages designed for smaller weddings — take a moment to fill in your details here and let me know what you are thinking!
unique outdoor Wedding venues near montreal
Vineyards, Manors, Boutique Hotels, Old Mills, Sugar Shacks, Gold Clubs are all venues in and around Montreal worth your exploration. Here are a few I am suggesting because they balance the outdoor and indoor spaces with modern elegance and contemporary comforts.
RIGAUD/OUTAOUAIS WEDDING VENUES
Cafe de L’Horloge - a unique wedding reception hall located in Rigaud, the garden in front of the river underneath a giant tree is a beautiful spot to get married with your nearest and dearest. Equipped with an apartment over the reception hall, with charm in an antique teacup — a great spot to create lasting memories. Another bonus: Sanctuaire de Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes is very close by for some romantic couples photos either before or after your wedding.
The Wakefield Grand - is the sister venue to Le Belvedere and perfect for smaller microweddings. A scandanavian vibe and definitely worth checking out.
Abbaye Oka - I photographed a wedding here last November and it’s impact is enormous no matter the size of your wedding. The grounds are just as beautiful and worthy of exploration for some beautiful photographs.
Fairmount Montebello - historical build with a central fireplace I’ve sat by with a book all day, this hotel has the luxury of a Fairmount, but with a cozy ambience of a cottage. The grounds of this hotel are situated by the water — there are plenty of beautiful spots to get married and follow the rules of any phase of the pandemic.
Adelina Barn - I just discovered this little barn outside of Ottawa and think for those of you looking for the more elegant yet rustic, this would be worthy of exploring.
Stonefields Estate - a very popular wedding venue spot outside of Ottawa and with good reason! Very picturesque, I can’t wait to photograph a wedding here in the fall of 2021.
Sucrerie de la Montagne - when I first started planning my wedding, I had this whole winter wedding idea for this venue! The logistics didn’t work out for us in the end, but maybe it would for you? I love this spot.
LAURENTIANS / UP NORTH WEDDING VENUES
La Cabane d’a cote || Au pied de Cochon Sugar Shacks- famed Montreal chef Martin Picard has designed a suite of sugar shack inspired restaurants located in the beautiful farmlands of Mirabel, Quebec. My husband and I had one of our best meals out at Le Cabane D’a Cote last spring — if you are a couple that loves food and great wine and is exploring the idea of a vineyard wedding. I would highly recommend exploring this as a possibility.
Stone Haven Le Manoir - Recently re-opened after two years of renovating this estate built in 1908 and already booked for 2021-22 wedding season, I say it’s definitely worth looking into for elopements or possible cancellations/waiting list to those more loosely planning a wedding. A beautiful spot and one I hope to photograph someday!
Le Pont Couvert - a venue built on a bridge. Truly beautiful, not as well know, 10 minutes from Tremblant. Go take a look!
Chateau Taillefer Lafon - get married in the gardens of the vineyard at this Chateau in Laval, Quebec!
La Bullerie - I am looking forward to photographing a wedding here this coming summer in 2021 — I’ll be sure to share the photos of the day back here on my website.
Le Grand Lodge - this is where I got married in 2014, which was the start of the rustic-wedding trend. I had a two day Irish wedding, the “rehearsal dinner” with all 100 of our wedding guests happened in the barn adjacent to the hotel — and the bonus for all of our guests was that they all had rooms with a view of the lake and the mountains. For those of you looking to bring a very Quebec Experience to those visiting from out of town, this might be your spot.
EASTERN TOWNSHIPS WEDDING VENUES
Manoir Hovey - on my Canadian Wedding Bucket List, having stayed here as a guest, this manor located in North Hatley, Quebec is the stuff of where former Presidents have stayed. Really exquisite and refined.
Beatnik Hotel (& Barn!) - a contemporary hotel for modern couples, looking to add a slice of barn fun to their wedding day. This is a beautiful spot with a lot of potential.
Vignoble de la Bauge - great old barn situated in a vineyard, plenty of room for fresh air and great photographs, as well as adding your own personality to the decor.
L’Orpailleur Vineyard - more contemporary in its decor from traditional vineyards, this wedding spot looks ripe for modern couples looking to get married among the grapevines.
Haltes les Pelerins - oh my goodness, a tent wedding in the middle of the vineyard is a perfect pandemic solution for those larger wedding dreams.
Domaine de Ridge - the last of my vineyards, this one needs to tent in case of rain — you’ll have to check out this venue for yourself — it’s the perfect mix of modern rustic ambience.
Escapades Memphramagog - want to get married ON WATER? Check out this luxury cruise on Lake Memphramagog — outdoors, scenic, and very memorable.
Are you planning a wedding in a spot like this? I would love to talk to you! I have packages designed for smaller weddings — take a moment to fill in your details here and let’s chat!
Looking for more PANDEMIC FRIENDLY venue ideas?
Visit my list of Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in Montreal