HOW TO ELOPE IN THE OKANAGAN

Elopements and intimate weddings are becoming more and more popular — and for good reason. Couples are stepping away from the traditional wedding format and focusing on what matters most: the two of them, and the moment they say “I do.”

The Okanagan Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Canada to elope. With its diverse landscapes, vineyards, lakefront views, and soft evening light, you can create a day that feels like it was made just for you. Whether you want an adventurous mountain top ceremony or a romantic lakeside vow exchange, this region has endless possibilities.

Let’s walk through the steps to planning a seamless, stunning elopement in the Okanagan.

Best Okanagan Elopement Locations

Your location sets the vibe. Choose somewhere that feels true to you, whether it’s a park, winery, private estate, or mountain trail. Some of our favourite Okanagan elopement spots include:

• Bertram Creek Park, Kelowna (2o minutes from Kelowna)
• Knox Mountain, Kelowna (in Kelowna)
• Sanctuary Gardens, West Kelowna (35 minutes from Kelowna)
• God’s Mountain Estate, Penticton (1 hour 15 minutes from Kelowna)
• Tin Poppy, Salmon Arm (1.5 hours from Kelowna)
• Kalamoir Park, West Kelowna (24 minutes from Kelowna)
• Monte Creek Ranch, Kamloops (2 hours from Kelowna)
• Lindon House, Kelowna (in Kelowna)
• Ellison Provincial Park, Vernon (55 minutes from Kelowna)

When to Elope in the Okanagan

The Okanagan is known for its distinct four seasons, which means you really have options when it comes to eloping. If you are wanting to have total flexibility and freedom with lighting and photo options, May to September would be perfect.

Note that in July & August, it gets very hot in the Okanagan. If you don’t want to be sweating, we recommend eloping in the spring or fall, OR having a later start time (aka not getting married at the peek of the day.

The winter months can be beautiful but beware of really cold temperatures, snow and it getting dark very early (we are talking 4pm).

Legal Steps to Elope in the Okanagan

Here’s what you need to legally elope in British Columbia:

• Purchase a marriage license ($100) at a Service BC location
• Hire a licensed officiant or commissioner (tell them your elopement plans ahead of time!)
• Have two witnesses (yes, we can be your witnesses!)

Recommended Vendors for Your Okanagan Elopement

Just because you’re eloping doesn’t mean you have to DIY everything. A small vendor team can help your day feel intentional, smooth, and supported.

Our favourite local vendors for Okanagan elopements:

Hair & Makeup

• Cassidy Watt Artistry Collective
• Lafleur

Florals

• JAM
• Valley Bloom Co
• Mimim Designs

Day of Coordinator (to help with getting a perfect set up)

• Lavish Events

Why You Need a Photographer for Your Okanagan Elopement

Photos are how you relive it all. Elopements move fast and are deeply personal, so having the right photographer (or content creator!) can make all the difference. We’ll guide you through relaxed portraits, document candid moments, and help make the whole day feel effortless.

You deserve to feel just as special and celebrated on your elopement day.

 Final Thoughts

Eloping in the Okanagan means creating a day that’s truly yours — no pressure, no big production, just meaning and connection. And with a little support and planning, it can be even more magical than you imagined.

Planning your elopement? Get in touch with us here — we’d love to help document your story.