Best Wedding Venues in Ottawa [2021 Edition]
We heard the big news - you’re engaged! From our team to your family, congratulations on this exciting next step. First things first: finding your dream venue. Nailing down your location can be one of the most pivotal decisions you make; chipping away at the dress, decor, and details feels a bit more straightforward with your destination in mind. After several years in the business, we’ve mixed and mingled with the best of them, and know a stunning spot when we see one. Browse the list below for some of our favorite picks!
If you’re dreaming of nautical nuptials … The Ottawa Rowing Club
Photo by: LW Imaging - Wedding and boudoir photography, Ottawa and beyond.
This riverside spot positively oozes with charm. Home to the oldest rowing club in Canada (it’s been around since 1897!), the Boathouse has been tastefully designed with rustic wood beams, suspended oars, and vintage decor nodding to days spent on the water. Marry on the terrace for sweeping views of the Ottawa River or visit the dock for unforgettable shots of the bridge and city skyline. One of the best parts? The profit from each event goes straight into maintaining and supporting the rowing club - a nonprofit dedicated to making rowing accessible to all.
If restored, stunning mansions are more your style… The CAPE
Did someone say aged brick? This 19th century estate has been beautifully restored to offer rich, historical detail with all the modern amenities you could ask for. Inside the stately mansion, you’ll find arched doorways, detailed millwork, and gorgeous wood floors that add depth and character to the historic home. Walls have been stripped down to reveal the masonry work of the 1850s, infusing the home with texture and grit. In an unexpected twist, every other detail of the estate, from the light fixtures to the artwork to the furniture, is decadent and glamorous, striking a beautiful chord between the seemingly at-odds materials. Even better? There’s no shortage of stunning locations for your photo booth - no backdrop necessary!
If you want both modern and traditional … The Canadian Museum of Nature
Photo by: Grey Loft Studio
Design and planning: Erica Erwin Wedding and events
If you’re one drawn to museums, this one’s likely already on your radar. The Canadian Museum of Nature somehow combines gorgeous VIctorian exterior architecture - aka, it looks like a castle - with strong, striking, modern lines inside. Historic beauty and modern sophistication are married beautifully; with six event spaces across the venue, you can find the perfect space to match the vibe you’re going for, whether it’s traditional or glamorous, modern or vintage. Depending on which space you select, you’ll find oak-lined walls, industrial glass panels, century-old mosaic floors or a 65-foot tall glass tower. Despite its modern influence, it feels entirely warm and inviting.
If you dream of incredible views… Venue Twenty Two
Photo by: Stephanie Mason Photography & Co.
The views from here simply can’t be beat. Located on the twenty second floor of the Westin Ottawa and flanked wIth floor to ceiling windows, the space offers striking, unobstructed views of Ottawa and the parliament buildings. Abundant natural light floods the venue, creating an ethereal glow and incredible warmth. Throughout the venue, you’ll find brass accents, clean lines, and distinguished furnishings. The entire space has been tastefully designed with an understated, minimalist aesthetic that functions as a stunning backdrop to your big day!
If you’re drawn to a classic country wedding … Stonefields
Photo by: MDRN Photobooth Co.
When considering stunning wedding spots, we couldn’t leave this one off the list. Stonefields is renowned for its gorgeous buildings, timeless decor, and rustic chic aesthetic. Across the 120-acre estate, you’ll find their original stone farmhouse, event building, and barn. The barn, most known for its massive chandeliers, rustic beams, and muted decor, is done in the most elegant and sophisticated of ways. The rustic stone farmhouse, complete with authentic rock fireplace and wood log walls, offers one-of-a-kind spaces to get ready for your big day. That’s not to mention what you’ll find outside their walls - lush lawns, wooded forests, and sweet fences offer numerous opportunities for your photographer!
If you want industrial chic done right… The Horticulture Building
Photo by: Samantha Danis Photography
Samantha Danis Photography is Ottawa's True to Life wedding Photographer. Her fun and captivating energy will be sure to make you break out in all kinds of smile on your big day. A quality experience that you'll cherish forever.
This one gets us every time. As a sprawling warehouse, the Horticulture Building can accommodate even the largest of weddings with surprising intimacy and charm. With soaring ceilings, exposed ductwork, and concrete floors, the space is decidedly industrial - and provides a remarkable contrast against lush florals, soft draperies, and romantic decor. Banks of large, black windows flank the sides of the building, ushering in gorgeous natural light to saturate the space. The grit and rawness of the space offers unmatched texture; its urban ambiance can blend beautifully with glamorous, rustic, or minimalist decor. No matter what direction you go with it, the folks at the Horticulture Building know what they’re doing!
If you want guests to stay on the property… The Andaz Hotel
Photo by: Ali & Batoul Photography - Documenting love for the adventurous couple
Andaz is Hyatt’s millennial focused hotel chain. With an open snack mini-bar in each room (what a concept!) and Ottawa’s highest rooftop lounge, this is the perfect venue if your wedding is going to be a full weekend experience. You can host the entire extravaganza here, from the rehearsal dinner at nearby ByWard Market to a beautiful brunch the day after your vows in the gorgeous rooftop lounge. They’ve got some standout event policies too, like allowing marriages on that rooftop. Nobody else gets married with views of downtown Ottawa!
If you’re a creative at heart… Ottawa Art Gallery
Photo by: Joel & Justyna
Most people don’t realize how wonderful it can be to be married in an art gallery like this one. You’re surrounded by contemporary and local works of art, sure, but you are also supporting the artists. A distinctly affordable choice, Ottawa’s beautiful Art Gallery is an ultra modern space that is perfectly suited for an intimate wedding that will blow people away.
Each of the venues above has their own story, unique style, and unmistakable charm - much like you and your beloved. We hope that you have the opportunity to tell your own story in a place that feels just like you. When it’s time to hire and bring on vendors, you won’t need to look far - MDRN photo booth services is only a click away.