So where did we leave off last in the wedding chronicles…oh yeah! We realized mountain weddings are ridiculously expensive LOL! So, a couple of months ago, we started to look at possible wedding venues here in Edmonton and were pleasantly surprised by the unique options. Yes there are some great hotel choices like Hotel MacDonald, the Matrix Hotel, Union Bank Inn or even somewhere like the Oasis Centre. But we wanted to search for something a bit more intimate, interesting and reflective of us as a couple. After all, the venue often sets the tone for the whole wedding and the people running everything behind the scenes can really make or break the big day. So we did some research, we visited some places and came up with our top Edmonton Wedding Venues! Here they are in no particular order…

1. Blatchford Hangar at Fort Edmonton Park

Why we love it: We felt like we stepped back in time! How wonderful to get married with a bit of history surrounding you and your guests. It’s open and airy, with an adorable loft space perfect for a photo booth or games area. We could very well see ourselves getting married right there in front of the big hangar doors or even in the small, intimate 1910 St. Michaels Church. For the reception, the open ceiling looked stunning and when I asked about hanging lights or other decorative options, they were really supportive. Ryan’s favourite part was that guests could visit some of the park on the day as well!

Something to consider: It is massive! Perfect for large weddings but may feel a tad empty for smaller parties. Also, there is a large mural on the main wall…easily covered by beautiful white fabric but you would have to consider that in your budget.

2. The Trans Alta Arts Barns

Why we love it: A bit theatrical like me? The people at the Barns are like family because of all the shows that we have put on there from Scona and because of how much I love and cherish the performing arts in Edmonton. They are very supportive and willing to make your day beautiful. It is basically a blank canvas! My mind was racing with ideas of how we could decorate. Basically getting married here would almost guarantee a day that no one else in Edmonton would ever have. I mean look at the two photos above! It doesn’t even look like the same place! Also, you can bring in whatever caterer you want. One wedding I attended at this space had Marble Slab come in for desert instead of the traditional cake. It was amazing!

Something to consider: The Arts Barns has loads of events going on throughout the year including the Fringe, which you may have heard of! That event alone basically knocks out the majority of the availability in summer. Book far in advance or think about a less hectic time of the year. Also, remember that because it is a theatre, no natural lighting!

3. The Yellowhead Brewery

We we love it: Ummm fresh microbrews? Need I say more?? But really, this venue boasts more than awesome beer. Located downtown, it offers a hip loft space in what is basically a restored warehouse. Exposed brick throughout speaks to my heart and the delicate hanging lights are magical. The owner Ido, met us with a cold glass of beer immediately and was very down to earth. All the catering and alcohol is taken care of in house…making planning a cinch! And did I mention the brick?

Something to consider: The space is intimate…small wedding parties only!

4. The Old Timer’s Cabin

Why we love it: If you can’t afford a mountain wedding like us, this may just be the next best thing! A beautiful log cabin, not nestled in the mountains, but rather in the heart of the river valley. The views from the cabin are gorgeous and inside is not half bad either with its rustic charm and large stone fireplace.

Something to consider: The secret is out on this little place. Booking may be difficult if you are looking at high season. Make sure to read the additional costs that come along with this venue!

5. La Cité Francophone

Why we love it: Yes, it may seem like just a hall. And it is. But what we love about this venue is the access to the beautiful rotunda and patio & terrace. La Cité is located in the adorable French Quarter in Bonnie Doon and when you see the large windows of the venue its hard not to love it. And having La Café Bicyclette cater your event is sure to be delicious. Ryan and I often ride our bikes there for Sunday brunch.

Something to consider: Decor will be important here to make the hall itself look unique!

So I know you are all wondering….WHICH ONE DID WE CHOOSE FOR OUR BIG DAY?!?!

THE YELLOWHEAD BREWERY!!!!!!

With the size of our wedding, we opted for intimacy. Though we loved some of the other venues, this one worked the best for us. It matched our style, it was easy to communicate with the manager and we knew that this space would set the best tone for us and our guests. We want no time in between the ceremony and reception and this venue allows us to get married in the evening and then flow right into the party! Ido is also allowing us to customize our menu which will be served in a more cocktail fashion…no formal sit down here! And, best of all, it fit our budget!

Oh and did I mention the brick? 🙂

PS – If you want to see how our wedding turned out in the Yellowhead Brewery check out my Ceremony & Reception Post. And, another big help could be my Top Wedding Advice for Brides to Be (trust me, there’s some gooder’s in there!). Happy Wedding Planning!! XO