Montreal is a magnificent city to get married in, and as a wedding photographer, I feel incredibly lucky to live and work here. There are so many unique and stunning outdoor wedding venues in Montreal, each with its own special charm and personality. In this article, I’d like to share some of my favourite venues that I’ve had the pleasure of photographing, as well as offer up some ideas for locations that are currently on my wedding venue bucket list.
Accessibility and Natural Beauty:
Let’s start with some practical considerations. Many couples planning their wedding in Montreal are looking for a venue that’s easily accessible for their guests, both those from the city and out of town. A venue with good public transportation access or ample parking is a big plus. Additionally, Montreal is home to a wealth of natural beauty, so it should come as no surprise that many couples choose outdoor venues so they can celebrate their love in the midst of the great outdoors.
Here are a few of my favourite outdoor wedding venues in and around Montreal that tick all the boxes:
- La Toundra: Located in Parc Jean-Drapeau, just a stone’s throw from downtown Montreal, La Toundra is a popular choice for couples who want a modern and stylish outdoor wedding. The venue boasts stunning views of the Montreal skyline and the St. Lawrence River, and the surrounding gardens provide a lush and romantic backdrop for your ceremony and reception.
- Pavillon de la Jamaïque: This charming little venue is also located in Parc Jean-Drapeau, and it’s perfect for intimate weddings with up to 50 guests. The giant willow tree is a popular spot for ceremonies, and the views of the city skyline are just as breathtaking as at La Toundra.
- Le Belvédère du Vieux-Port: If you’re looking for a venue with a touch of history and elegance, Le Belvédère du Vieux-Port is a great option. This waterfront venue offers stunning views of the Old Port and the St. Lawrence River, and the stripped-down simplicity of the space makes it a perfect canvas for your own personal touches.
Canalside Charms:
The Lachine Canal has become a popular spot for Montrealers in recent years, and it’s no wonder that couples are starting to consider it for their weddings as well. The canal offers a unique and picturesque setting, and there are a few great venues located right on the water’s edge.
- L’Ambroisie & L’Espace Canal: Located in the heart of Montreal’s historic Château St-Ambroise, this venue presents an exquisite venue for outdoor weddings that blend urban sophistication with waterfront tranquility. It offers a unique combination of modern elegance and industrial chic, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Lachine Canal. The outdoor spaces are versatile, allowing couples to craft their dream ceremony with the canal’s serene waters and the city’s architectural beauty as a canvas. Inside, L’Ambroisie boasts elegant banquet halls that seamlessly extend the celebration from the outside in, ensuring a smooth transition regardless of weather conditions. Known for its fine dining and exceptional service, L’Ambroisie & L’Espace Canal caters to every detail, offering personalized menus and decor to reflect each couple’s style and theme. This venue stands out for its ability to offer a secluded, romantic setting right in the city, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to combine urban convenience with the charm of an outdoor wedding.
- Entrepôts Dominion: Located in the heart of St-Henri, Entrepôts Dominion is a unique and industrial event space that’s perfect for couples who want something a little different. The outdoor ceremony space is located in the shadow of restored industrial lofts, and the indoor space is perfect for a fun and festive reception.
- McKiernan: This industrial loft spot, recently reopened by the famed Joe Beef chefs, is quickly becoming a popular wedding venue. With its exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and stunning views of the canal, McKiernan is a great option for couples who want a modern and stylish wedding with a touch of edge.
Hidden Gems:
In addition to the popular spots, there are a few hidden gems in Montreal that I would love to photograph for a wedding. These venues offer something a little different, and they’re perfect for couples who want a unique and memorable wedding experience.
- Château Ramezay: This beautiful old mansion in the heart of the Old Port is a great option for couples who want a classic and elegant wedding. The gardens are stunning, and the cobblestone streets and historic architecture provide a charming and romantic backdrop for your ceremony and reception.
- Forest & Stream Club: This luxurious and exclusive club located in Dorval is a photographer’s dream venue. The Forest & Stream Club stands as a quintessential venue for outdoor weddings, offering an unparalleled blend of natural elegance and refined tradition. Tucked away in a serene, private setting, this prestigious club boasts a rich history and a majestic backdrop of lush woodlands and sparkling waterways. Its expansive grounds and meticulously manicured gardens provide a variety of picturesque settings for both ceremonies and receptions, allowing couples to exchange vows amidst the beauty of nature. The club’s stunning Victorian-style clubhouse exudes an air of old-world charm and sophistication, offering elegant indoor spaces that complement the outdoor scenery. With its reputation for exceptional service, gourmet cuisine, and attention to detail, the Forest & Stream Club promises a wedding experience that is both intimate and grand, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a venue that marries natural beauty with classic elegance.
- Verger du flanc nord (Mont-Saint Hilaire): This enchanting site located on the South Shore of Montreal offers two rooms, “The Buvette” and “L’Atelier,” with capacity for 40 and 85 guests respectively. Bathed in natural light and boasting elegant décor, the venue also features breathtaking views of Mont-Saint-Hilaire and a terrace for beautiful days.
- Au Vieux Moulin (Rigaud): This spectacular 1830s mill, nestled at the water’s edge in the heart of nature, is less than an hour from Montreal and Ottawa. Between May and October, the mill’s exclusivity and its three levels of terrace offer panoramic river views for an intimate wedding. The magical and picturesque setting will enchant you with its pavilion on the water’s edge, pond, wooded paths, and waterfalls. The extensive gardens provide endless opportunities for capturing picturesque wedding photographs.
- La Grange Manson (Austin): Under the wooden beams of the Grande Manson, light garlands shimmer above the tables, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Originally a dairy barn and later used for cattle breeding, the Manson Barn has been transformed into a two-story reception hall. With its two balconies, historic details, rustic bar, exposed beams, and mezzanine, this barn offers endless possibilities for your ceremony and reception, whether you envision an intimate gathering on the mezzanine or a larger celebration in the field.
- Le Café de l’Horloge (Rigaud): Le Café de l’Horloge, nestled in the picturesque town of Rigaud, provides an idyllic setting for an outdoor wedding, enchanting guests with its blend of natural beauty and historic charm. This venue, celebrated for its scenic views of the surrounding landscapes, offers a tranquil and romantic backdrop perfect for a couple’s special day. The café itself, housed within a beautifully restored heritage building, adds a touch of timeless elegance to the occasion, while the lush gardens and serene waterfront create a stunning outdoor ceremony space. With its intimate and peaceful ambiance, combined with impeccable service and gourmet catering options, Le Café de l’Horloge ensures a memorable and exquisite outdoor wedding experience for couples looking to celebrate their love in a truly enchanting setting.
- Manoir Hovey (Eastern Townships): Manoir Hovey, a luxurious lakeside estate nestled in the picturesque Eastern Townships of Quebec, offers an enchanting setting for outdoor weddings. This exquisite venue, inspired by the charm of New England’s countryside mansions, provides a romantic and secluded backdrop that blends natural beauty with refined elegance. The sprawling grounds of the estate feature manicured gardens and a pristine lakefront, offering breathtaking views and an idyllic setting for both ceremonies and receptions. Manoir Hovey’s commitment to personalized service and gourmet cuisine, crafted from the finest local ingredients, ensures a bespoke wedding experience. The estate’s intimate and serene ambiance, combined with its historic architecture and sophisticated accommodations, makes it a premier choice for couples seeking a tranquil yet luxurious outdoor wedding venue. With its unparalleled natural beauty and impeccable attention to detail, Manoir Hovey promises a memorable celebration that encapsulates the essence of romance and exclusivity.
- Domaine Cataraqui (Quebec): A listed heritage building located in the historic heart of Sillery, Quebec City, Domaine Cataraqui is a charming estate with character. Its many rooms are equipped with technological equipment, and an experienced team and reputable caterers ensure the smooth running of your wedding festivities. The enchanting and intimate setting provides privacy for your special day, with views of the river and a capacity of up to 250 people.
- La Bullerie (Saint-Joseph-du-Lac): This vast and splendid property in nature offers two rooms that can accommodate up to 150 people and a cozy apartment for overnight stays. For a rustic ceremony, an outdoor tent is available, creating a memorable experience for you and your loved ones. La Bullerie also offers customized services, from the gastronomic menu of the terroir to the wine houses, ensuring a truly tailored wedding experience.
- Le Belvédère (Wakefield): Perched on a cliff’s edge, Le Belvédère is the perfect location for a nature wedding. The Wakefield Grand, a guest house located near the gazebo, can accommodate up to 28 guests, while the outdoor terrace with seating for 200 offers breathtaking views of the Gatineau Hills, making your ceremony unforgettable.
- Au Jardin d’Emmanuel (Oka): Exchange vows at sunset with the vine-covered landscape bathed in golden light at Au Jardin d’Emmanuel. The country-style casks serve as decorative accents, while the grape-filled vines provide a picturesque backdrop for your wedding photos. This venue features a beautiful 40 x 60 belvedere terrace, a capacity of 150 people, a covered area with patio heaters (available from June to September), and a barn (currently under renovation) that will be available year-round and can accommodate 60 guests.
- Auberge Willow Inn (Hudson): Stanstead Hall at Auberge Willow Inn is a bright and spacious venue with windows overlooking the Lake of Two Mountains and vast plains. With numerous amenities, a terrace, a dining room that can accommodate up to 120 guests for your reception, and 10 luxurious and comfortable rooms available for guests, Auberge Willow offers everything you need for a perfect wedding weekend.
- Domaine du Ridge (Eastern Townships): Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Domaine du Ridge is a vineyard brimming with authenticity and charm. With rolling hills and vineyards, this rustic paradise has an incredible covered terrace that can accommodate up to 120 people. They have preferred caterers they work with, but you can also offer your own, and the wine obviously comes from the vineyard itself, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
Beyond the Venue
- While the venue itself plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your wedding day, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Don’t forget to consider other factors like catering, photography, and decor to create a cohesive and unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
- Montreal is a foodie city, and there are countless talented caterers who can create a delicious and personalized menu for your wedding.
- Of course, as a photographer, I can’t help but mention the importance of finding the right photographer to capture your special day. I believe in a natural and unobtrusive approach to wedding photography, focusing on capturing the genuine emotions and connections that make your wedding day unique. I love getting to know my couples and understanding their vision for their wedding so I can tailor my approach to tell their story in the most authentic way possible.
- Finally, don’t underestimate the power of decor to transform your venue and create a truly unique atmosphere. Montreal has a thriving community of talented florists, stylists, and rental companies who can help you bring your vision to life. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic fairytale wedding or a modern and minimalist celebration, there are endless possibilities for creating a space that reflects your personality and style.
- Montreal is a magical city to get married in, and I hope this article has given you some inspiration for your own wedding planning. With its stunning venues, delicious food, talented vendors, and vibrant atmosphere, Montreal has everything you need to create a truly unforgettable wedding day.
Further Reading:
ALTERNATIVE WEDDING VENUES IN MONTREAL
BEST WEDDING VENUES IN MONTREAL
MONTREAL WEDDING VENUES ON A BUDGET
