A calm, simple guide from someone who’s been there
The Cleveland Dam is one of those places that feels peaceful the second you arrive. You are surrounded by mountains, trees, and water all at once. It is quiet, calm, and full of that North Shore beauty that never gets old.
If you are thinking about having your ceremony here, this guide will help you see what it is really like, what it feels like, how to book it, and why it might be the right fit for your day. I have photographed a few weddings here, and every single one felt natural and full of heart.
Why Couples Love Cleveland Dam
There is something about this spot that just feels right. It is close to the city but feels far from everything. The backdrop looks like a scene out of a film with Capilano Lake behind you.
The kind of place where you can say your vows surrounded by nature and the people you love.
Most of the couples I work with here care more about connection than production. They want something grounded and simple. A place that lets the moment shine on its own. Cleveland Dam gives you that.
What It Costs
This part always surprises people.
To book a ceremony at Cleveland Dam, it is only 100 dollars plus GST. That is it. No huge venue fees or minimum spend. Just a beautiful space with an unbeatable view.
What is included:
- The open lawn space in front of the dam
- Space for up to 125 guests
- Power access for a speaker or microphone
- On site washrooms
- Easy parking and no long hikes
You can book through Metro Vancouver
Email: facilities.info@metrovancouver.org
Phone: 604 432 6352
Website: Metro Vancouver Cleveland Dam Field Booking
If you are planning something relaxed, meaningful, and close to nature, this spot just makes sense.
What You Can & Can’t Bring
There are not a lot of rules, but a few things matter.
Allowed:
- Up to 125 folding chairs
- One or two 10×10 pop up tents (not staked into the ground)
- One limo on the service road for setup
- A simple sound system
Not allowed without extra permits:
- Alcohol
- Food service or catering
- Balloons or confetti that could harm wildlife
Keep it simple and kind to nature and you are good.
Cleveland Dam Summer Wedding Timeline
11:00 a.m. – Getting Ready
- Start your morning at home or your Airbnb.
- Capture quiet and intimate moments filled with laughter, details, and time with your closest people.
1:00 p.m. – Hair and Makeup Finishing Touches
- Final touches with your dress, jewelry, and bouquet.
- This is when the excitement really starts to build.
2:00 p.m. – Groom Arrival at Cleveland Dam
- The groom arrives first with his best man or family.
- We find a quiet corner overlooking the lake and mountains for the first look.
2:30 p.m. – Bride Arrival and First Look
- The bride arrives separately.
- That first look moment feels emotional and private with the mountain view behind you.
3:00 p.m. – Couple Portraits at the Dam
- Take a few portraits together before guests arrive surrounded by the natural beauty of the dam.
3:45 p.m. – Ceremony Setup and Guest Arrival
- Guests begin to arrive. The ceremony space opens to the water and is surrounded by forest.
- Peaceful, calm, and beautifully simple.
4:15 p.m. – Ceremony by the Dam
- Your vows echo softly with the sound of water and wind in the background.
- Quiet, heartfelt, and full of meaning.
4:45 p.m. – Family Photos
- Capture family portraits right after the ceremony while everyone is still gathered together.
5:30 p.m. – Walk Across the Dam
- Take a relaxed moment to breathe and take everything in as newlyweds.
- Candid photos as you walk together.
6:00 p.m. – Forest and Salmon Hatchery Portraits
- A short walk from the dam brings you to a peaceful setting with trees and greenery all around.
7:30 p.m. – Sunset Portraits and Send Off
- Around this time the sun dips low behind the trees, creating the perfect moment for your final
- photos at the dam. You can end the evening your way with sparklers, a quiet walk under the trees, or a calm goodbye with your loved ones before heading out.
8:00 p.m. – Dinner or Small Reception Nearby
- Head to a nearby restaurant or enjoy a private dinner with family and friends.
- Relax, celebrate, and enjoy the evening with no rush.
Tips for a Smooth Day
- Book early, summer weekends fill up fast
- Visit at the same time of day as your ceremony, light changes everything
- Keep your setup minimal, the view does most of the work
- Bring a wireless speaker for music or vows
- Tell guests to dress for weather, shade is limited
- Have a backup plan nearby in case of rain
Who This Location Is For
Cleveland Dam is made for couples who
- Want a natural, peaceful setting
- Care more about real emotion than perfection
- Do not want a big venue with strict timelines
- Want to feel surrounded by nature
If you want a ceremony that is quiet, meaningful, and surrounded by beauty, this place delivers every time. It is not ideal if you are planning a full reception or want catering and alcohol on site, but for an outdoor ceremony it is one of the best options in Vancouver.
FAQs
How many guests can we invite
- Up to 125 people
Is there parking
- Yes, a main lot nearby with a short walk to the lawn
Can we have a reception there too
- It is best for ceremonies only. Most couples head somewhere nearby afterward
Is it wheelchair accessible
- The main path is flat and paved, but the lawn has some uneven ground
Ready to Plan
If you are dreaming of something simple, heartfelt, and surrounded by nature, Cleveland Dam could be your place.
And if you want your photos to match that same feeling, calm, real, and full of emotion, I would love to be there for you.
No pressure. No stiff posing. Just gentle direction, real connection, and space for the moments that matter most.
Let us make something you will always come back to.
