The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Perfect Wedding in Kelowna

Planning a wedding in Kelowna offers couples an unforgettable experience, with its stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and picturesque venues. The ultimate guide to planning a wedding in Kelowna begins with choosing the perfect location that matches your vision—whether it’s a lakeside ceremony, a vineyard celebration, or a charming urban venue. Next, selecting the right vendors is essential, from a talented Kelowna wedding photographer to florists, caterers, and wedding planners who specialize in the region’s unique style and vibe. Don’t forget to consider the season, as Kelowna offers diverse experiences year-round, from sunny summer days to snowy winter wonderlands. Planning your wedding in this scenic city also means taking advantage of local food, wines, and activities for your guests to enjoy. With thoughtful planning and attention to detail, your Kelowna wedding will be a beautiful and unforgettable celebration.

1. Find the Perfect Wedding Venue

Kelowna offers a wide variety of breathtaking wedding venues to suit every budget and style. From luxurious hotel ballrooms to charming vineyard barns, you’ll find the ideal setting for your special day. Start your search early, as popular venues can book up quickly, especially during the peak wedding season.

2. Choose your Date

Summer is the most popular time to get married in Kelowna, but don’t overlook the charm of fall and winter weddings. These seasons offer a more intimate, cozy atmosphere for your celebration. Consider the weather, and make sure to secure your date with your venue well in advance.

3. Hire your Vendors

With your venue and date set, it’s time to start assembling your dream wedding team. Kelowna boasts an array of talented wedding professionals, from photographers and caterers to florists and musicians, who can help bring your vision to life. Be sure to read reviews and book early to ensure the best vendors are available for your date.

4. Choose your Style

Kelowna’s stunning natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for any wedding style. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic vineyard celebration or a chic rooftop affair in downtown Kelowna, select a style that reflects your personality as a couple. Let the breathtaking surroundings inspire your vision for the day.

5. Create your Guest List

As you build your guest list, consider the size and style of your venue. Some venues may have guest count limitations, so plan accordingly. Be sure to send out save-the-dates and invitations early to give your guests ample time to make travel arrangements, if necessary.

6. Enjoy your Big Day

On your wedding day, make sure to enjoy every moment and leave the stress behind. Delegate tasks to your bridal party and trusted vendors, allowing yourself to relax and soak in the joy of the day. Kelowna’s stunning landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities also provide plenty of opportunities for pre and post-wedding celebrations, making it the perfect destination for a memorable experience.

Favorite Wedding Venues

Fitzpatrick Winery

Fitzpatrick Winery in Peachland, BC, is an idyllic location for couples seeking a romantic and memorable wedding. This breathtaking vineyard is nestled among rolling hills and boasts stunning views of Lake Okanagan, making it the perfect spot to exchange vows.

The winery offers a range of venues, from the charming wine cellar, where the newlyweds can raise a glass to their future, to the beautiful outdoor ceremony spaces with sprawling gardens and picturesque pergolas. Couples can customize their experience with a variety of packages, ranging from an intimate elopement for two to a grand celebration with up to 250 guests.

One of the standout features of a wedding at Fitzpatrick Winery is the exceptional culinary experience. Their skilled culinary team creates menus inspired by locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich flavours of the Okanagan. Whether it’s a mouth-watering three-course dinner or an elegant cocktail reception, the cuisine is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on guests.

To complete the perfect wedding experience, the winery offers onsite accommodations, including a cozy two-bedroom cottage with sweeping vineyard views. The newlyweds can relax and unwind after their special day while surrounded by the beauty of the vineyard.

Overall, a wedding at Fitzpatrick Winery in Peachland is an unforgettable experience. The stunning surroundings, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service all combine to create a magical day that couples will cherish for a lifetime.

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Hotel Eldorado

The Eldorado Hotel in Kelowna is known for its beautiful lakefront location and stunning views. Many couples choose this venue for their wedding because of its elegance and charm.

The hotel offers several wedding packages that can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences. They have experienced wedding planners who can guide you through the entire process, from choosing the perfect ceremony location to arranging the reception details. They also have a team of talented chefs who can create delicious and customized menus for your special day.

The Eldorado Hotel has multiple indoor and outdoor venues for ceremonies and receptions. The Waterfront Ballroom is a popular option for larger weddings, with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake. The Lakeside Rooftop Terrace is another great choice for more intimate ceremonies, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Guests who have had their wedding at the Eldorado Hotel often praise the attentive and professional staff. The hotel’s team works hard to ensure that every detail is taken care of, from the setup of the ceremony space to the coordination of the reception. The quality of service, combined with the beautiful surroundings, makes for a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience.

If you’re considering having your wedding at the Eldorado Hotel in Kelowna, I would recommend reaching out to their wedding team directly. They can provide you with more information and assist with any specific questions or requests you may have.

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Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Summerhill Winery in Kelowna is a stunning venue that offers a picturesque setting for weddings. Known for its beautiful vineyards, breathtaking lake views, and award-winning wines, it’s a popular choice for couples looking for a romantic and enchanting wedding experience.

Summerhill Winery offers different indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions. The outdoor ceremony site, surrounded by vineyards and mountains, provides a picturesque backdrop for exchanging vows. The winery also has a spacious and elegant indoor reception space with large windows that showcase the vineyard views.

Couples who have chosen Summerhill Winery for their wedding often praise the incredible natural beauty of the venue and the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff at the winery are experienced in hosting weddings and are committed to ensuring that every detail of your special day is taken care of.

One of the highlights of having a wedding at Summerhill Winery is the exquisite food and wine options. The winery’s culinary team is renowned for creating delicious and locally sourced menus, paired with their award-winning organic wines. Your guests can enjoy the unique experience of savoring exceptional food and wine while surrounded by the beauty of the vineyards.

Additionally, Summerhill Winery is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. They are certified organic and biodynamic, making them a great choice for eco-conscious couples.

If you’re considering Summerhill Winery for your wedding, I recommend reaching out to their dedicated wedding team. They can provide you with more information about their wedding packages, availability, and assist with any specific requests or questions you may have.

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Laurel Packing House

The Laurel Packing House in Kelowna is a unique and historic venue that offers a charming and rustic setting for weddings. It is a restored fruit-packing house built in 1917 and has since become a popular choice for couples looking for a vintage-style wedding.

Couples who have had their wedding at the Laurel Packing House often rave about its character and ambiance. The venue features original hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, and high ceilings with wooden beams, which creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. This historic charm provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and adds a touch of nostalgia to the overall wedding experience.

The venue offers flexible spaces that can be customized to accommodate both the ceremony and reception. The main packing floor can hold up to 200 guests and can be arranged in various seating configurations to suit your preferences. There is also a mezzanine level that can be used for additional seating or as a cocktail area.

The Laurel Packing House is known for its excellent service and attention to detail. The venue has a dedicated team that works closely with couples to ensure their vision is brought to life. From assisting with the setup of decorations to coordinating the flow of the event, the staff is there to make sure everything runs smoothly.

One thing to note is that as a heritage building, certain restrictions and guidelines may apply when it comes to decorations and vendors. It’s important to communicate with the venue’s team to understand these requirements and plan accordingly.

If you’re seeking a unique and vintage wedding experience, the Laurel Packing House could be a great choice. I recommend reaching out to their team directly for more information, availability, and to discuss any specific requirements or questions you may have.

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