VanDusen Garden Vancouver | Wedding Venue and Planning Tips

 A calm, natural wedding venue in the heart of Vancouver

If you’ve been dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature, VanDusen Botanical Garden might be the one. It’s tucked right into the middle of Vancouver, but the moment you walk in, it feels like another world. The garden is alive with plants, flowers, and trees from around the globe, all meticulously cared for and constantly changing with the seasons.

Every season brings a different kind of beauty. If you’re thinking about having your wedding here, this guide will walk you through what it’s like, how each season feels, and what to plan for.

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Why Couples Choose VanDusen

VanDusen isn’t just beautiful, it feels right. You don’t have to decorate much or force it to be something it’s not. The garden does the work for you.

It’s a great choice if you

• Want a wedding where nature feels like part of it
  
• Love the outdoors and want greenery as your backdrop
  
• Prefer a flexible bring your own vendor style venue
  
• Don’t want the vibe of a hotel ballroom or banquet hall

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What It’s Like in Every Season

One of the best things about VanDusen is how it changes throughout the year. Each season brings new light, colors, and atmosphere.

🌸 Spring (Late March to May)

Feeling: Fresh, soft, full of life
Spring at VanDusen means blossoms everywhere, cherry, magnolia, and rhododendron. Everything is waking up. If you want a gentle, romantic day, this is your season. The sunsets come earlier, which can be beautiful for cozy evening portraits.
Photo tip: Early blooms make for dreamy backdrops. Just bring umbrellas because spring showers are common, so having an indoor backup is smart.

☀️ Summer (June to August)

Feeling: Bright, warm, full of energy
The garden is in full bloom. Greens are lush, flowers are everywhere, and the light lasts late into the evening. Summer weddings here are amazing for golden hour portraits around 8 or 9 p.m.
Pro tip: Late afternoon ceremonies feel more private after the garden closes to the public.

🍂 Fall (September to Early November)

Feeling: Warm, cozy, golden
Fall might be my favorite season to photograph here. The leaves turn deep orange and red, and the air feels calm and fresh after summer. It does rain a bit more, so bring umbrellas and embrace those romantic moody shots.
Tip: The light fades earlier, so plan your ceremony timing carefully.

❄️ Winter (Mid November to February)

Feeling: Quiet, modern, intimate
Outdoor spaces close in winter, but indoor options like the Visitor Centre or Floral Hall are still available. Think candlelit dinners, soft light, and cozy speeches. Perfect for couples who want a smaller, moodier celebration.

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Ceremony Location Options

You’ve got three ceremony spots to choose from, depending on your guest count and the kind of celebration you want.

Great Lawn

This is the big one. Perfect for full weddings with family and friends. You can bring in your own rentals and layout, so it’s easy to make it feel personal.

• Up to 120 guests included (max 200)
  
• $2,350 for 4 hours
  
• Open lawn surrounded by lush greenery

Heron Lake

This spot feels tucked away and romantic. The willow tree by the lake makes a stunning backdrop, and the garden path walk in is quiet and peaceful.

• Up to 120 guests included
  
• $2,350 for 4 hours
  
• Willow tree backdrop with a lakeside view

Meadow Pond

Perfect for elopements or small family vows. No chairs or tents, just you, your people, and nature.

• Up to 30 guests
  
• $825 for 2 hours
  
• Stand up ceremony only (no seating except for accessibility)

Reception and Rain Backup Options

If you’re planning both your ceremony and reception here, or want a weather safe backup, these indoor spaces are great options.

Visitor Centre

This space feels modern and bright, with big windows overlooking the lake. Great for couples who want an indoor celebration with outdoor photo options.

• Capacity up to 120 seated or 180 ceremony
  
• Rates $2,120 to $4,035
  
• Includes sound system, garden views, and full day access
  

Floral Hall

This one feels cozy and easy to decorate. You can also rent the Cedar Room across the hall as a prep or vendor space.

• Capacity up to 120 guests
  
• Rates $955 to $1,945
  
• Includes kitchenette, sound system, and garden views

Cedar Room

Perfect for vendor setup or bridal prep. Not a ceremony space on its own but great as an add on.

• Capacity up to 50 for ceremony or 20 for prep
  
• Rates $310 to $780

📍 Prices are updated for 2026. Please contact the venue directly for an exact quote. This guide is meant to help you quickly understand capacity, cost, and options to see if this venue fits your vision and budget.

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Good to Know: Booking and Planning Tips

VanDusen gives you flexibility, but that means you’ll coordinate more of the logistics yourself.

• Setup and cleanup must happen within your rental time
  
• Bring your own rentals, decor, catering, and insurance
  
• No overnight storage allowed
  
• Combo indoor outdoor bookings can save up to 40 percent
  
• Liability insurance and music licenses are required
  
• No drones, smoking, or pets (service animals only)

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FAQ: VanDusen Wedding Info

Can I bring my own vendors
Yes, you can hire your own caterer, planner, and rentals.

Do I need a planner or day of coordinator
Highly recommended. Staff doesn’t help with setup or flow, so having someone manage the day keeps things easy.

Is parking free
Yes. There’s plenty of free on site parking for guests and vendors.

What if it rains
You’ll need to book an indoor space as backup. You can save up to 40 percent with a combo booking.

Are photos allowed in the garden
Yes. Your rental includes photo access during your booking. Just no drones.How early should I book
As early as you can because popular weekends go fast. A deposit is needed to hold your date.

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My Experience as a Photographer

Every wedding I’ve photographed here feels different. There are endless spots surrounded by nature that help people slow down and be present. It’s rare to find a venue where you can do everything in one place, from getting ready to portraits and the ceremony, without driving anywhere. That saves time and keeps the day calm.

The garden is stunning, but keep in mind that weekends in summer can be busy when it’s open to the public. Still, there are always quiet corners for beautiful photos. Whether it’s a vow exchange by the lake or a full celebration on the lawn, VanDusen lets you create something that’s truly yours.

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Final Thought

VanDusen Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Vancouver. It’s timeless, natural, and carefully maintained. If you want your wedding to reflect your love for the outdoors without leaving the city, this is your place.

If you’ve dreamed of saying your vows under a willow tree or celebrating among flowers, there’s nowhere else like it.📸 If you’re planning your wedding at VanDusen and want photos that feel real and full of emotion, I’d love to be there for you. Please contact me with the form below to chat about your day.