Pet-Friendly Wedding Venues in Vancouver & the Lower Mainland | Vancity Officiant Wedding Guide
- Vancity Officiant Team
- May 23
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Looking for pet-friendly wedding venues in Vancouver? Whether you're planning an outdoor ceremony with your dog as your ring bearer or just want to include your furry friend in photos, this guide shares the best venues and tips to make it happen, stress-free.
WHY CHOOSE A PET-FRIENDLY WEDDING?
Your pet is family, it's important to include them in the moment that marks your next chapter
Outdoor venues and relaxed West Coast vibes make pet participation easy
Many parks and private venues allow well-behaved dogs with simple guidelines
It makes your photos, ceremony, and memories even more meaningful
PET-FRIENDLY WEDDING VENUES IN GREATER VANCOUVER & THE FRASER VALLEY
The Ensora - Richmond, BC
A modern indoor ceremony venue created by the team behind Vancity Officiant, The Ensora is designed for couples who want an intimate, all-weather, and pet-friendly space. Located near Bridgeport Station, it offers a calm, minimalist setting where your furry family members can be part of the ceremony in comfort.
Stanley Park Pavilion - Vancouver, BC
Located in the heart of Vancouver’s most iconic park, this historic venue features a beautiful lawn space perfect for ceremonies with pets. Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas. Website | Google Map
John M.S. Lecky UBC Boathouse - Richmond, BC
This floating boathouse venue in Richmond offers open-air waterfront ceremonies where pets can be present with approval. It’s ideal for couples wanting nature, style, and their dog by their side. Website | Google Map
Brix & Mortar – Yaletown, BC
This intimate courtyard venue in downtown Vancouver allows pets to attend outdoor ceremonies in their partially covered space. Stylish, urban, and dog-friendly. Website | Google Map
Cecil Green Park House – Vancouver, BC
Perched on a bluff with sweeping ocean and mountain views, this elegant heritage mansion offers lush gardens and spacious outdoor areas where dogs are welcome. Its timeless charm makes it perfect for couples wanting a refined yet pet-friendly celebration. Website | Google Map
Bloom Garden Weddings – Chilliwack, BC
A seasonal, flower-filled garden that’s welcoming to dogs and offers flexible vendor policies. Large enough for full weddings, yet peaceful and intimate. Website | Google Map
Fraser River Lodge – Agassiz, BC
A stunning lodge set against the Fraser River with panoramic views of Mount Cheam. The property welcomes pets for outdoor ceremonies and is perfect for rustic, nature-inspired weddings. Website | Google Map
DOG-FRIENDLY BEACHES & PARKS FOR OUTDOOR CEREMONIES
Most parks in Vancouver are dog-friendly, but some locations stand out for their beauty and ease:
Stanley Park
From the rose garden to Third Beach, this expansive park offers several gorgeous, pet-appropriate ceremony sites. Google Map
Ambleside Park – West Vancouver
Features an off-leash dog area and oceanside views. Perfect for casual, beachy weddings with dogs in tow. Google Map
English Bay
While busier, it remains a favorite for locals. Morning or off-peak ceremonies work well if you want to include your pup. Google Map
Whytecliff Park – West Vancouver
One of BC’s most scenic coastal parks, with forest trails and rocky cliffs ideal for elopements or small ceremonies. Google Map
Porteau Cove
Located along the Sea to Sky Highway, this dramatic waterfront park is a peaceful option for intimate ceremonies with stunning views. Google Map
Lynn Canyon Park – North Vancouver
Known for its lush forest trails and scenic suspension bridge, Lynn Canyon Park is a serene and photogenic choice for adventurous couples planning a quiet ceremony with their dog. Leashes are required, and early mornings offer the best chance for privacy. Google Map
MAKE IT MEANINGFUL: THE PAWFECT WITNESS CEREMONY
At Vancity Officiant, we know how important pets are in our lives. That’s why we offer the Pawfect Witness Ceremony, a heartfelt way to include your dog in your wedding with purpose.
Here’s how it works:
Your pet places their pawprint on a keepsake certificate during the ceremony
A special blessing is offered to you and your furry companion
Instead of a fee, you make a donation to an animal-related charity of your choice
It’s a simple, beautiful way to honour your bond, and give back at the same time.
SIGNING CEREMONIES WITH YOUR PET
Looking for a calm and meaningful way to say “I do”?
The Ensora in Richmond, BC, is a private indoor ceremony venue designed for couples who want an intimate, all-weather space to legalize their marriage. Our minimalist and pet-friendly setting lets you include your dog in the moment without the pressure of a large wedding.
Every ceremony here is officiant-led, heartfelt, and fully legal — a simple, beautiful way to make it official with your furry family by your side.
TIPS FOR A SMOOTH PET-INCLUSIVE WEDDING
Ask your vendors early – When reaching out to venues, photographers, officiants, planners, or florists, ask if they’re comfortable working with pets. Confirming this early helps avoid surprises and ensures everyone, including your furry friend, feels welcome.
Confirm pet policies with your venue or park (e.g. leash rules, pet access areas, or additional insurance requirements)
Assign a pet handler – Designate a trusted friend or hire a pet attendant to care for your dog throughout the event
Pack the essentials – Don’t forget water, treats, waste bags, leash/harness, and a familiar blanket or toy
Let your photographer know – Make sure they’re prepared and comfortable capturing pet moments during the ceremony and portraits
Know your pet’s personality – Consider their comfort level in crowds or unfamiliar settings. Keep the ceremony short and sweet if needed
FINAL THOUGHTS
Your wedding is about celebrating love, connection, and family, and for many couples, that includes their pets. With the right planning and a welcoming venue, your dog can be part of your ceremony, your photos, and your story.
At Vancity Officiant, we’re proud to support pet-inclusive weddings in every way possible; from full ceremonies and elopements to private signings and charitable pet blessings. Let us help you honour every member of your family, paws and all.
Visit Vancity Officiant to learn more about our services and start planning your perfect day.
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