When planning a wedding, finding the perfect venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. For couples seeking a more personal and unique celebration, Ottawa has a wealth of intimate wedding venues that provide a beautiful setting for your special day. From hidden gems with historic charm to modern spaces with stunning views, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing love stories in these remarkable venues, and I know firsthand how they can make your wedding day feel truly magical.
Choosing the right venue can set the tone for your entire celebration, and as a photographer who specializes in intimate weddings, I’ve seen how these spaces transform into something extraordinary when filled with your unique moments. Here are some of my top picks for intimate wedding venues in Ottawa, each offering something special to make your day unforgettable.
1. Restaurant e18hteen
Why It’s Great: Located in the heart of the ByWard Market, Restaurant e18hteen is where elegance meets a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Its contemporary design and dedication to exceptional fine dining create an intimate setting that feels both luxurious and warm. This venue is perfect for couples who want to offer their guests an elevated culinary experience in a sophisticated yet comfortable environment.
Ideal For: Couples who appreciate a high-end, modern venue with a focus on refined cuisine and an unforgettable dining experience.
Photo Opportunities: The nearby ByWard Market is a treasure trove for wedding photos. With its mix of historic buildings, colorful alleyways, and lively street scenes, you’ll have plenty of beautiful spots to capture your newlywed moments.
Capacity: The venue can comfortably accommodate up to 60 guests, making it ideal for weddings that prioritize intimacy and elegance without feeling cramped.
2. Beckta Dining & Wine
Why It’s Great: There’s something timeless about Beckta Dining & Wine. As a photographer who loves to capture the in-between moments, I’ve found that this venue’s blend of historic charm and contemporary elegance sets the perfect stage for those candid, heartfelt shots. The private dining rooms at Beckta offer a truly personalized space where you can enjoy an intimate celebration with those closest to you, paired with exquisite dishes that reflect the love and care you’ve put into your special day.
Ideal For: Couples who want a timeless venue that feels like a hidden gem in the heart of Ottawa, with an emphasis on a customized and elegant dining experience.
Photo Opportunities: With Parliament Hill and Major’s Hill Park just a stone’s throw away, you’ll have iconic Ottawa backdrops for your wedding photos. These locations offer a blend of classic architecture and natural beauty that perfectly complement the venue’s sophisticated vibe.
Capacity: Suitable for weddings of up to 50 guests, Beckta provides the perfect balance for a celebration that feels grand in emotion but intimate in scale.
3. Lord Elgin Hotel – Trillium Room
Why It’s Great: The Lord Elgin Hotel’s Trillium Room is a hidden gem that I’ve seen bring out the best in every couple’s special day. Its elegant interiors and stunning views of Confederation Park create a romantic setting that feels both classic and contemporary. This venue is perfect for couples who dream of a downtown Ottawa wedding that’s wrapped in sophistication and style.
Ideal For: Couples who want a venue with a touch of historic elegance and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Photo Opportunities: Confederation Park, just outside the hotel, offers beautiful greenery and open spaces that are perfect for capturing those timeless moments. The downtown area also provides a mix of urban elegance and scenic views for stunning portraits.
Capacity: The Trillium Room is ideal for intimate celebrations with a guest count of up to 40, allowing for a more personal and close-knit gathering.
4. 50 Sussex
Why It’s Great: As someone who loves capturing the magic of a well-planned wedding day, I can tell you that 50 Sussex offers a stunning backdrop like no other. With its modern design and breathtaking views of the Ottawa River and Rideau Falls, this venue brings a sense of natural beauty and tranquility to any celebration. It’s an incredible space that feels both grand and personal, perfect for a wedding that’s all about celebrating your unique story.
Ideal For: Couples looking for a contemporary venue with a bright, open atmosphere and stunning water views to create a romantic and elegant setting.
Photo Opportunities: The venue’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide a flood of natural light, which is a dream for capturing soft, glowing portraits. Outside, the views of the Rideau Falls and Ottawa River make for breathtaking backdrops that add a touch of nature to your wedding album.
Capacity: Accommodates up to 60 guests, offering plenty of space for a meaningful celebration with your closest friends and family.
5. Fairmont Château Laurier – Drawing Room
[Visit Fairmont Château Laurier]
Why It’s Great: The Drawing Room at the Fairmont Château Laurier is a stunning example of classic elegance, perfect for couples looking for a venue that exudes historic charm and grandeur. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing weddings in this iconic space, and it never fails to impress with its timeless architecture and sophisticated ambiance. The Château Laurier’s rich history and opulent decor make it an unforgettable setting for an intimate wedding.
Ideal For: Couples who dream of a fairy-tale wedding in a luxurious, historic venue with a touch of vintage glamour.
Photo Opportunities: The Château Laurier itself is a photographer’s dream, with its grand staircases, elegant hallways, and stunning views of the Rideau Canal and Parliament Buildings. Nearby Major’s Hill Park also provides a beautiful outdoor setting for more natural, romantic shots.
Capacity: The Drawing Room is ideal for intimate gatherings of up to 50 guests, offering a cozy yet elegant space for your celebration.
Why I Love Photographing Intimate Weddings in Ottawa
Intimate weddings are all about the details—the quiet moments, the heartfelt glances, and the laughter shared among those you hold dear. As a photographer, I’ve had the honor of capturing these moments at some of Ottawa’s most beautiful venues, and I’ve seen firsthand how they can elevate a wedding from a simple event to a deeply personal experience. Each of these venues brings something special to the table, making them perfect for couples who want their wedding day to be as unique as their love story.x
These intimate wedding venues in Ottawa offer the perfect blend of style, sophistication, and charm for couples looking to create a personalized and memorable celebration. From elegant restaurants to historic settings and modern spaces with scenic views, Ottawa has a venue for every couple’s unique vision. With stunning photo opportunities nearby, these locations will help you create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
Explore these venues for your wedding day and discover the perfect spot to say “I do” in the heart of Ottawa.
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.
