One of the first steps in planning a wedding is determining your venue, and if you’re planning your big day in Calgary, you may be wondering how much you can expect to spend. Calgary offers a wide variety of wedding venues, each with its own unique charm, from luxurious hotels and grand ballrooms to intimate parks and rustic barns. The cost of a wedding venue in Calgary can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and type of venue, as well as the time of year. In this article, we’ll break down the typical costs of wedding venues in Calgary to help you plan your budget.
Average Costs of Wedding Venues in Calgary
The price of a wedding venue in Calgary can range anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on your needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of the typical cost range for different types of venues:
1. Hotel and Ballroom Venues
Hotel wedding venues in Calgary are a popular choice, offering both the ceremony and reception space in one location. These venues often come with a range of amenities, such as catering services, staff, and bridal suites.
- Cost: The price for a hotel or ballroom venue can vary significantly. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 for a wedding venue rental, depending on the hotel’s prestige, location, and the package you choose.
- What’s Included: Most hotel venues offer wedding packages that include catering, drinks, and sometimes even a wedding coordinator, which can make the planning process much easier.
2. Unique and Non-Traditional Venues
For couples seeking something different, Calgary offers a variety of unique venues, such as art galleries, museums, and outdoor venues. These spaces can give your wedding a distinctive atmosphere and can be a great way to reflect your personal style.
- Cost: Unique venues typically range from $2,000 to $8,000 for a rental fee. However, costs can go higher for well-known venues or those that are especially in demand.
- What’s Included: Many of these venues are dry-hire, meaning you’ll need to arrange your own catering, decor, and other services. However, their distinctive charm and photo opportunities are hard to beat.
3. Outdoor and Park Weddings
Calgary boasts an array of stunning parks and outdoor spaces that are perfect for a ceremony, such as Prince Island Park and Fish Creek Provincial Park. While these spaces are usually more affordable, you will likely need to secure a wedding permit.
- Cost: Park wedding permits in Calgary typically range from $150 to $1,000, depending on the location and size of your event.
- What’s Included: A park wedding usually requires you to handle all aspects of the wedding yourself, including catering, decor, and seating, though the breathtaking natural beauty of the park can serve as a stunning backdrop.
4. Private Event Spaces and Barns
For a rustic or intimate wedding, private event spaces and barns can provide a charming, relaxed atmosphere. These venues often allow for more flexibility with decor and style, making them a popular choice for couples looking for a personalized touch.
- Cost: Private venues and barn weddings in Calgary generally cost $3,000 to $8,000 for a venue rental, depending on the size and location.
- What’s Included: Some private venues include basic amenities like tables and chairs, but many require couples to organize catering, entertainment, and decor.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the venue rental is a significant portion of your wedding budget, there are other costs to keep in mind. These can include:
- Catering and Drinks: Most venues, especially hotels, charge per guest for catering. The average cost for food and beverages ranges from $50 to $150 per person, depending on the menu and drinks package.
- Decor and Rentals: If your venue doesn’t provide decor or furniture, you’ll need to rent items such as linens, chairs, and centerpieces. Rental costs can range from $1,000 to $4,000.
- Parking and Transportation: Some venues charge for parking or may require you to arrange transportation for guests, which can add another $500 to $2,000 to your budget.
The Importance of a Wedding Photographer
Once you’ve chosen your venue, it’s important to consider how you’ll capture your special day. Hiring a professional wedding photographer is crucial for preserving the memories of your wedding. The right photographer will understand your venue’s unique features and use them to create stunning, timeless images that reflect the beauty of your day. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a lavish ballroom or a serene outdoor space, a skilled photographer will know how to capture the details, emotions, and atmosphere of your wedding.
In addition to your wedding photographer, you may want to consider hiring a real estate photographer to capture the venue itself. Real estate photographers are experts at showcasing the architecture and layout of a space, making them ideal for capturing the details of your wedding venue before and after the ceremony. These photographers can highlight the unique elements of your venue, whether it’s a rustic barn, a modern hotel, or a scenic outdoor park, ensuring that your venue is featured in the most beautiful light.
Conclusion
The cost of a wedding venue in Calgary can vary widely based on the type, location, and amenities offered. On average, couples can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 on their wedding venue rental. It’s important to consider all aspects of the venue, including catering, decor, and permits, to create a comprehensive budget. Once you’ve chosen your venue, don’t forget to hire a professional wedding photographer to capture the magic of your day, and consider a real estate photographer to beautifully showcase your venue’s unique features. With the right planning and professionals, your Calgary wedding will be everything you’ve dreamed of.