Finding the Perfect Season for Your Ottawa Wedding
Ottawa is a stunning city for weddings, offering breathtaking landscapes, historic venues, and vibrant seasonal changes. Whether you dream of a lush spring garden ceremony, a sun-drenched summer celebration, a cozy autumn affair, or a magical winter wonderland wedding, Ottawa has something for every couple. However, each season comes with its own set of considerations for venues, photography, and logistics. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about planning a wedding in Ottawa during each season.
Spring Weddings in Ottawa (March-May)
Why Choose Spring?
Spring is a season of renewal, making it a beautiful time for weddings in Ottawa. The blooming cherry blossoms, tulips, and fresh greenery create stunning backdrops for photos. However, Ottawa’s spring weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain and chilly evenings.
Best Spring Wedding Venues in Ottawa:
- The Greenhouse at the Experimental Farm – A lush, plant-filled space perfect for an indoor/outdoor feel.
- The National Gallery of Canada – Stunning architecture and natural light make for elegant wedding portraits.
- Horticulture Building – A modern yet warm space with easy access to outdoor gardens.
Photography & Planning Tips:
- Plan for rain – Clear umbrellas and covered venues are great backups.
- Golden hour is earlier – Work with your photographer to capture the best natural light.
- Spring flowers – Take advantage of seasonal blooms like peonies and tulips for fresh, romantic décor.
Summer Weddings in Ottawa (June-August)
Why Choose Summer?
Summer is the most popular wedding season in Ottawa, and for good reason! Long daylight hours, warm weather, and outdoor venue options make it a dream for couples. However, high humidity and intense sun are factors to consider.
Best Summer Wedding Venues in Ottawa:
- Le Belvédère – Offers stunning sunset views over the Gatineau Hills.
- Le Vignoble de Chelsea – A romantic vineyard venue with stunning countryside views and a relaxed ambiance.
- Evermore – A charming barn-style venue with expansive outdoor spaces.
- Bleeks & Bergamot- A charming countryside venue with a mix of rustic elegance and open-air beauty, perfect for a romantic summer wedding.
Photography & Planning Tips:
- Avoid harsh midday sun – Schedule portraits for late afternoon or golden hour.
- Stay hydrated – Provide refreshing drink stations for guests.
- Bugs can be an issue – Have citronella candles or bug spray stations at outdoor venues.
Fall Weddings in Ottawa (September-November)
Why Choose Fall?
Fall is a favourite season for wedding photography in Ottawa due to the breathtaking autumn foliage. The crisp air, warm-toned leaves, and cozy atmosphere make for an unforgettable celebration.
Best Fall Wedding Venues in Ottawa:
- Stonefields Estate – A rustic yet elegant venue with golden-leafed backdrops.
- Fairmont Château Laurier – Classic luxury with views of Ottawa’s fall scenery.
- Temples Sugar Bush – A woodland venue surrounded by autumn colors.
- Jabulani Vineyard & Winery- A stunning vineyard venue with rolling landscapes and vibrant fall foliage, offering an intimate and picturesque setting for a romantic wedding.
Photography & Planning Tips:
- Book early October for peak fall foliage.
- Plan portraits before 5 PM as sunset comes earlier in the fall.
- Layered fashion – Shawls, wraps, and cozy details enhance the seasonal aesthetic.
Winter Weddings in Ottawa (December-February)
Why Choose Winter?
A winter wedding in Ottawa can be pure magic, with snowy landscapes, intimate indoor settings, and warm candlelit receptions. It’s also the most budget-friendly season, with lower venue costs and more vendor availability.
Best Winter Wedding Venues in Ottawa:
- The Westin Ottawa – A modern venue with panoramic snowy city views.
- TwentyTwo at The Westin – A stunning rooftop venue with floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking winter views.
- Fairmont Le Château Montebello – A luxurious log cabin resort offering a warm and intimate winter wedding setting with stunning snowy backdrops.
Photography & Planning Tips:
- Stay warm! Have blankets and hand warmers ready for outdoor portraits.
- Dramatic night shots – Capture romantic images with twinkling lights and snowfall.
- Consider an indoor location for portraits – Museums, libraries, or heritage buildings can be stunning backdrops.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Season for Your Ottawa Wedding
Every season in Ottawa offers something unique for weddings, whether it's the fresh bloom of spring, the golden glow of autumn, or the cozy charm of winter. The best season for your wedding depends on your vision, guest experience, and personal style.
As an Ottawa wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing beautiful weddings in every season. If you need guidance on planning your seasonal wedding or want to see real wedding examples from past clients, feel free to reach out! Let’s make your wedding day vision come to life, no matter the season.
📅 Ready to book your Ottawa wedding photographer? Contact me here to start planning your dream wedding in Ottawa!
