how to elope in ontario
Wedding & elopement Photographer
So you are ready to Elope in Ontario? Let's start things off with how beautiful Ontario is. I used to always think that the Ontario landscape was boring, and always craved to explore something else. After travelling all across Canada, I have come to the realization that Ontario actually has some of the most unique, varied, and stunning places. Ontario also has fantastic weather with all four seasons. The options for locations and backdrops for your elopement is truly endless. Don't let that stress you out though, I'm here to help. Above all, I am happy to go through hundreds of beautiful locations and ideas (besides the ones recommended later in this blog) to help find your dream elopement location.
Did you know that Ontario is the second biggest province in Canada, the largest is our eastern neighbor, Quebec. Some parts of Northern Ontario do not even have established roads. I checked and there is no official route to Polar Bear Provincial Park - sorry but we will have to fly. Jokes aside, lets talk about the landscapes in Ontario that are easily accessible. You will see me recommend many parks - however these are only the give you a general idea of what the area looks like. I know of MANY secret gems in each of these regions that will provide you with a less-touristy elopement location.
Landscapes of Southern & Eastern Ontario
Southern Ontario has the Niagara escarpment, endless waterfalls, sand dune beaches, and places like Point Pelee National Park - the most southern point in Canada. The more south you go, the flatter the terrain, but you gain a lot more. There is a beautiful winery every place you look! As well as stunning farm lands, open fields, and large open beaches. If you continue to Eastern Ontario, you will find the most unbelievable white sand beaches and the famous Thousand Island National Park.
Landscapes of Western Ontario
In the "South-West" Corner of Ontario, you have the ever-so-beautiful Bruce Peninsula. This is an iconic place with crystal clear blue waters and rocky beaches. Home of the Bruce Peninsula National Park, you can find the famous "grotto". And guess what - you can elope there!! After that, you will find the gorgeous little town of Tobermory at the tip of the Peninsula. Here you can take a ferry over to multiple areas, Manitoulin Island and Flowerpot Island. And guess what - you can elope there too!!
In the "North-West" area of Ontario, you will find Thunder Bay. Home of the Amethyst Crystals - be sure to go mining during your visit. In this area you will find HUGE rock cliffs, and definitely not easy to access. However, you will find beaches so beautiful they remind me of the ocean. Lake Superior is cold and wicked, as well as crazy stunning. This area makes for a great elopement location and has some dense, wild lands. Be sure to check out Lake Superior Provincial Park and Pukawaska National Park.
Landscapes of northern Ontario
Muskoka is one of the most sought-after locations due to its wind-swept pines, the Georgian Bay, rocky white cliffs, endless lakes and cottages, and of course the stunning wilderness of Algonquin Provincial Park. This region is known as "cottage country" and has so many perfect locations for an elopement. This region has the most variety for any type of elopement from backcountry wilderness, renting a private island, industrial areas, to relaxing cottages.
How to legally elope in ontario
There are a few things you need to do to make your day legally legit.
1. Both partners need to be at least 18 years of age or older.
2. After that you need to apply for a marriage license. Click here for information on this application. You will need two pieces of photo ID and pay the fee. Once approved, your marriage license is good for 90 days.
3. An officiant is required to preform the ceremony.
4. In addition, you need two witnesses that are at least 18 years of age or older. Luckily, this can be myself and Dan if you don't want guests.
What vendors do you need for an elopement?
Find the right vendors for your elopement day is very important. Therefore the last thing you want is to have a bad experience with a vendor not showing up or providing you with subpar services. When you hire our team, you will get assistance planning and finding each vendor you require for your day. A lot of time and communication happens with these vendors to make sure they fit your vibe, style, and budget. This is a once in a lifetime experience for you. Above all, I want to make it exceed that expectation.
Do you need different vendors for an elopement versus a traditional wedding?
Not really. However, you have more flexibility with not needing certain ones only if you choose.
Here is a list of vendors that most couples book:
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Officiant
- Hair & Makeup artists
- Florist
- Decorator
- Accommodations (usually cottages, campsites, etc. But you can still rent small venues for an elopement!)
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