Eloping at City Hall in Ottawa is a wonderfully romantic and intimate way to say “I do.” Ottawa, with its rich history, scenic beauty, and charming urban spaces, provides the perfect backdrop for an elegant yet understated ceremony. Whether you’re planning a simple civil ceremony or a stylish elopement with a few close friends and family, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your special day in the nation’s capital truly unforgettable.
1. Why Eloping at Ottawa’s City Hall is a Great Idea
Ottawa’s City Hall is a timeless choice for couples seeking a stress-free and intimate wedding experience. The modern, sleek architecture of City Hall, set against the vibrant cityscape, offers a chic setting for your ceremony. Plus, it’s centrally located, making exploring the best of Ottawa before and after your nuptials easy.
2. Legalities and Paperwork: Getting Married in Ottawa
Before you exchange vows, you’ll need to navigate a few legal steps:
- Marriage License: The first step is to obtain a marriage license. Both parties must apply in person at Ottawa City Hall. You’ll need to bring two pieces of government-issued identification each, one of which must include your photo. As of 2024, the marriage license fee in Ottawa is approximately $182.00 CAD (HST exempt), and the license is valid for 90 days.
- Civil Ceremony: Once you have your license, you can book a civil ceremony at City Hall. Ceremonies can be scheduled during regular business hours or on select Saturdays. As of 2024, the fee for weekday civil ceremonies from 9 am to 4 pm is $159.20 plus HST. For Friday ceremonies at 5 pm and 6 pm and Saturday ceremonies, the fee is $238.75 plus HST.
- Officiant: The City of Ottawa provides officiants for civil ceremonies, but you can also bring in your own licensed officiant if you prefer something more personalized.
Be sure to book your ceremony well in advance, as popular dates can fill up quickly, especially during the summer and fall.
3. Where to Take Photos After Your Ceremony
After your ceremony, Ottawa offers countless photogenic spots to capture your newlywed bliss:
- Parliament Hill: Just a short walk from City Hall, the majestic Parliament Buildings offer a grand backdrop, especially during golden hour.
- Major’s Hill Park: Located near the ByWard Market, this park provides stunning views of the Ottawa River and the city’s most iconic landmarks.
- The Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the canal’s scenic pathways and picturesque locks offer endless photo opportunities.
- Château Laurier: This historic hotel, with its French Gothic architecture, adds a touch of old-world charm to your wedding photos.
- Around City Hall: With its sleek lines, public art installations, and the picturesque backdrop of Confederation Park, this spot provides a perfect blend of contemporary and natural elements for post-ceremony photos.
- Byward Market: Just a short walk from City Hall, Byward Market is one of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Its bustling streets, historic buildings, and colorful murals create a lively, urban atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot for capturing candid, dynamic wedding photos.
- Wellington Building: Located near Parliament Hill, it is known for its striking neoclassical architecture. The grand columns and detailed stonework provide an elegant and timeless backdrop, perfect for couples looking to add a touch of historic grandeur to their wedding photos.
As a local Ottawa elopement photographer, I know many of Ottawa’s hidden gems to capture unique and memorable shots.
Looking for more Ottawa Photo locations? I have a list of 40+ photo locations in Ottawa for you to explore here.
4. Making a Weekend Out of It: Top Hotels and Activities
Why not turn your elopement into a mini-vacation? Here’s how to make the most of your wedding weekend:
Top Hotels in Downtown Ottawa:
- Fairmont Château Laurier: A landmark of luxury, this hotel offers stunning views of Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal.
- Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market: A modern boutique hotel with rooftop views and stylish decor, perfect for a chic wedding night.
- Le Germain Hotel Ottawa: Known for its contemporary design and excellent service, this hotel is ideal for a sophisticated stay.
- Lord Elgin Hotel: Rich in history and charm, this elegant hotel is just steps away from Confederation Park and offers classic accommodations with a touch of luxury. Its prime location makes it a convenient choice for couples looking to explore Ottawa’s landmarks.
- The Metcalfe Hotel: This boutique hotel blends contemporary style with historic character, offering a cozy yet upscale atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s perfect for couples seeking a stylish and intimate experience, close to all the action.
Activities for Newlyweds:
- Spa Day: Relax and rejuvenate with a couples’ massage at Koena Spa or Nordik Spa-Nature in nearby Chelsea.
- Explore the ByWard Market: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighborhoods, filled with shops, cafes, and galleries.
- Ottawa River Cruise: Take in the city’s beauty from the water with a scenic boat cruise.
Plan a romantic dinner or brunch at one of Ottawa’s top restaurants to celebrate your new marriage.
5. Post-Elopement Dining: Top Restaurants for an Intimate Celebration
After your elopement, indulge in a culinary experience at one of Ottawa’s finest restaurants:
- Atelier: Known for its avant-garde tasting menus, Atelier offers a unique dining experience that’s perfect for food lovers.
- Beckta Dining & Wine: This upscale restaurant provides an elegant setting with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list.
- Riviera: Located in a historic bank building, Riviera offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, with modern Canadian cuisine.
- Play Food & Wine: For a more casual but equally delicious option, Play offers a variety of small plates and a carefully curated wine list, ideal for sharing.
Book a private dining room for an intimate gathering with close friends and family to keep the celebration going after your City Hall ceremony.
Eloping at City Hall in Ottawa is an elegant, stress-free way to tie the knot, surrounded by the beauty and history of Canada’s capital. From handling the legalities to capturing stunning photos, planning a luxurious weekend, and dining at top restaurants, Ottawa offers everything you need for a memorable elopement experience.
Whether you’re seeking simplicity or a touch of luxury, this guide ensures you’re well-equipped to make your Ottawa City Hall elopement an affair to remember.
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Looking to elope at city hall in Ottawa? Reserve your elopement photography with me & let’s plan your beautiful Ottawa city hall elopement.
Emma is a published wedding photographer based in Ottawa, Canada. Available to travel across Canada, USA and Europe. With a fine art editorial style, her portfolio showcases thirteen years of passion in collaboration with amazing clients throughout North America. Contact Emma here.
