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Home / OH CANADA!..Go Up North to Marry
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OH CANADA!..Go Up North to MarryCanada, the land of the rainbow maple leaf, joined the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain in 2005 by legalizing same-sex marriage,
and since then it has become a mecca for gay people looking to tie the knot. Gay and lesbian American couples are heading to the border (a pilgrimage of sorts) to a country that celebrates and validates love between everyone. According to Darryl Persello, founder of 2 Dears & a Queer, a Vancouver, BC-based wedding and event planning company, “98% of our business is international, and our clients come to us from virtually all 50 US states.” It’s no wonder; Canada is not only on the cutting edge of sanctifying the dignity and worth of its entire population, but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the world with white-capped mountains, rocky coastlines, and vibrant, booming city centers. Whether you’re looking to get married with all the bells and whistles available in places like Vancouver, Montréal, Toronto, or Halifax, or you prefer a laid back rural ceremony, Canada has it all. VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA Lauded the “Best City in the Americas” by Conde Nast Traveler, Vancouver is clean, safe, and picturesque, while also boasting a dynamic breadth of culinary delight and rich multiculturalism. Not to mention it’s super gay. “We have a wonderful gay village and the city itself is very gay-friendly,” says Persello, who specializes in same-sex weddings in Vancouver and the surrounding areas, including Whistler and Vancouver Island. There’s a reason for this: Vancouver and its municipalities are enthusiastic about the gay community. “We have actively reached out to the GLBT community in a way that not a lot of other travel bureaus have,” says Amber Sessions of Tourism Vancouver. “Vancouver is surrounded by ocean and mountains so it’s a stunning place for a wedding. Hundreds of [gay] couples from around the world have come to Vancouver to legally exchange vows. Ceremonies have varied from intimate gatherings, to seaside and garden services, to full blown large-scale events with all the trimmings,” she adds. “I have a lot of clients eloping from the states,” says Vancouver photographer Leanne Scherp, who moved to Canada to be with her partner because of its inclusive environment. “I love it when couples get married here because they are recognized and supported by our government and community, which adds another positive spin to the celebrations.” Rich Dalton and Luis Grisales are the perfect example. They not only tied the knot in British Columbia, but actually picked up and moved to Vancouver from the States afterwards. “We chose Vancouver because Luis is from Colombia and we were able to immigrate to Canada,” says Dalton. A special on the Style Network, Whose Wedding is it Anyway? featured Rich and Luis and their wedding. Their celebration was two-pronged: a commitment ceremony at home with loved ones and a legal wedding in Canada. “I don’t think a lot of people will travel for a wedding,” says Dalton, so it made sense for them to do it this way. In terms of venues in Vancouver, the possibilities are endless,” says Scherp. “Beaches, mountaintops, lakesides, forests—it’s worth looking around to find the venue that suits your style.” Some ideas from locals: Grouse Mountain, Vancouver Art Gallery, Stanley Park, Unitarian Church of Vancouver, and Sunset Bay Yacht Charters to name a few. “You can even get married at the Vancouver Aquarium,” Persello says. “You can dine next to the Beluga whale tank!” If you’re looking for something a little cozier, there are some great gay-owned or gay-friendly B & B accommodations. The charming Nelson House, which has been hosting queers for 19 years, is located in the heart of the gay/shopping district, sandwiched between Robson and Davie. Built in 1907, the three-story gem overlooks a quiet garden. Also in the neighborhood is the homey Ashby House. Built in the 1800s, it is steeped in history and is home to a stable of furry, four-legged residents who’ll gladly spend time with you on the porch. Hailed as an international “food capital” by the New York Times, Vancouver is a foodie’s culinary dream. From five-star cuisine to three-table sushi joints, Vancouver has everything your palate desires before and after your wedding. Don’t miss Bluewater (where there are frequent celebrity sightings and delicious oysters). The best raw bar in town—with great sushi and shellfish—Bluewater is tucked into trendy Yaletown. Romance is served at CinCin on Robson Street. This Tuscan eatery overlooks the shopping district, but it feels like a true Italian departure. It has contemporary cuisine and an award-winning wine list. At Parkside, an unassuming restaurant smack dab in the middle of the West End neighborhood, the Mediterranean meets France. In the summertime, their enchanting outdoor patio is hard to beat. Looking for a cozy spot to snuggle with your honey and a cocktail? Try gay hotspot Oasis; they have great happy hour specials and a delectable $5 tapas menu. For signature cocktails and light bistro fare, try Gerard in the Sutton Place Hotel. Gerard is a well-known film industry hangout and has the air of an English club with tapestries, leather chairs, and its own cozy fireplace. Another great lobby bar is Elixir in the Opus Hotel, which serves a fusion of contemporary and classic French cuisine. Depending on your mood and motive, choose from one of three of Elixir’s rooms—bustling bistro, airy garden room, or plush velvet room. In the Four Seasons, Yew serves over 150 wines by the glass and a Latin-inspired Sunday brunch. It is often host to non-profit auctions and fundraisers, notably for Friends for Life, a Vancouver-based organization that helps care for people living with HIV and AIDS. Their elegant lounge/restaurant pays homage to three of nature’s most exquisite elements—glass, wood, and natural rock—in its decorative flare. After the wedding pandemonium, the honeymoon beckons and there are plenty of places in British Columbia and nearby to take a load off. “The most popular honeymoon vacation when getting married in Vancouver is boarding a cruise ship to Alaska,” says Persello. Scherp has seen her clients and friends honeymoon in Whistler, Tofino, and Harrison Hot Springs. Many couples also enjoy a grape escape by heading off to the Okanogan Valley, Canadian wine country. TORONTO, ONTARIO A short drive from the US, Toronto is a hot spot for gay Americans looking to validate their union. “People can feel comfortable being themselves pretty much anywhere in Toronto,” says Sousie Tsotskos with Tourism Toronto. “You’ll see same-sex couples holding hands or being affectionate in most downtown neighborhoods.” Being one of the most open and accepting cities in the world is only part of what draws gay Americans to Toronto to get hitched. Toronto, which is home to the largest gay community in Canada, is also a booming metropolis and a rich cultural melting pot. “Over half of its 4.6 million people are immigrants,” says Tsotskos, “and over two million of us speak languages other than English.” “Toronto has numerous resources (many targeted at same-sex markets) that are essential for wedding planning, including both large and small events,” says Mark Singh, Co-Chair of Pride Toronto. One of them is the Rainbow Wedding Network, which specializes in helping gay people plan the big day. Co-founders Cindy Sproul and Marianne Puechl (who are also married) have touch points all over the world, including Toronto. “We launched nine years ago as the first wedding gift registry anywhere in the world dedicated to the LGBT community. Along with the registry, the site also includes an extensive online directory, in which we list wedding, travel, home, and family-related businesses,” says Puechl. “Each of these businesses has been screened by our staff to stand up for a policy of non-discrimination, so that couples can feel comfortable to contact them regarding their services or merchandise. Today, our directory holds well over 3,500 businesses throughout North America.” Since the legalization of gay marriage in Canada and an increase in same-sex marriage activity in America, the dyke duo has been helping couples plan their big day. “Our company branched out and began producing many of the nation’s first LGBT wedding expos. To date, we have produced twenty-five expos in twelve different states,” says Puechl. Beyond following your heart, Puechl says, as a reason to get married, it’s important to “stand up as an advocate for equality. Your choice to legally marry [in Canada] will add to the very important statistics to show everyone back home in America just how serious the issue really is.” Ceremony venues abound in Toronto. “My partner and I got married in St. James Gardens, next to the gorgeous St. James Cathedral,” says Singh. “There are many special event venues in the city that are ideal.” One of these is the Metropolitan Community Church, which was the site of the first legal same-sex wedding in Canada. “Many inns or venues that offer inclusive wedding packages also provide a degree of wedding planning services. These can be extremely helpful. Since you’ll be traveling internationally, it’s good to have an advocate working with you who understands more about the documentation you’ll need as well as some of the ins and outs of the local area,” says Puechl. Popular accommodations in Toronto include the Bonnevue Manor. Considered “one of Toronto’s great examples of High Victorian architecture,” the Bonnevue Manor is gay-owned and tucked into a quaint, quiet neighborhood in West Toronto. The Gladstone Hotel is also a great option. It is super queer-friendly and located in the artistic and funky Queen West area. Be sure to check out the Dundonald House too, as it calls itself “the gay bed and breakfast guest house in Toronto.” Meanwhile, cozy candlelit dinners can be found at Fuzion, where you can dine and lounge al fresco on their outdoor patio or sit fireside in their “flirt bar.” Formerly Slack Alice, Slack’s still draws droves of homos for comfort food and fun. The loft-style concept is trendy and refined; it’s definitely a place to be seen. Make sure you swing by the Queen Street East area, as well as Leslieville (that’s not Lezziville, although it is a part of town becoming increasingly popular with gay and lesbian families). These two neighborhoods attract a diverse cross section of Torontians and tourists, including our brethren. “Be sure to dress warm in the winter and bring sunscreen in the summer,” says Tsotskos, who encourages couples to also come during pride week. Toronto Pride is in June and one of the biggest celebrations in the world! MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC This infusion is palpable on the street…Montréalers are a passionate bunch by nature who are in love with love. “It’s in the Latin blood,” notes Pinsonnault. “Passersby will smile knowingly and offer to take a picture [no matter who you are, gay or straight]. Is it a conspiracy? You bet,” she says. “L’amour oblige.” Named after its local mountain (Mont Royale), Montréal is actually an island on the St. Lawrence River and draws many gay Americans looking to walk down the aisle. Deeply rooted in its European heritage, Montréal is not only romantic, but also a true departure from North American culture. “It’s a French-speaking city (though most people speak English as well) and it has a very different vibe, look, and culture from the rest of Canada and America,” says Tanya Churchmuch, founder of Girlports.com, a popular and information-packed worldwide online lesbian travel guide. “This beautiful metropolis in la belle province of Quebec is said by many to be one of the most lesbian-friendly cities in North America, for both tourists and locals alike.” Montréal also has a rich history that compliments the timeless nature of a wedding. When you walk around “Old Montréal” it feels as if it’s frozen in time: vintage windows glowing with cozy diners, ivy-covered hotels, queer couples in horse-drawn carriages, and historic buildings that have been standing for over 250 years. The gay neighborhood, known simply as “The Village,” is one of the major veins of the city with rainbow columns on the subway entrance and restaurants and LGBT nightclubs on every corner. French food at its finest can also be discovered on nearly every corner in Montréal. Some great spots to check out include: Le Jardin d’Antoine, a hotel with a stellar restaurant in the bustling Latin Quarter on St. Denis, a street where many festivals are held each year. Another great option is Le Club Chasse et Peche, whose braised veal is renowned. Be sure to try the lobster bisque, too. In Old Montréal, even more culinary surprises abound. In the heart of “Little Burgundy,” you will find The Liverpool House and Joe Beef, two spots that draw locals and tourists alike. Joe Beef has all your Old Montréal classics—from steaks to seafood—while Liverpool House has old world wines and an inviting oyster counter. Next door to one another, they’re only a “drunken crawl” from the much-loved Atwater Market, an explosion of local produce and flavors. Regarded as Montreal’s best restaurant in some circles, Toqué has been impressing critics and locals with regional French cuisine for 14 years. Simple elegance is the order of the day here. One of Montréal’s most beloved culinary heroes, Martin Picard (from the Food Network’s The Wild Chef), opened Au Pied de Cochon in 2002. Picard is typically on hand and can be seen cruising the tables and the kitchen, chatting up patrons. One item on his menu not to miss is the PDC Melting Pot, where Picard has roasted with skilled alchemy various parts of the pig: crisp roasted belly, braised shank, boudin noir sausages, and more. Délicieux! “You’d be hard pressed to find a place in Montréal that isn’t 100% open and supporting of a gay and lesbian wedding,” says Churchmuch, who’s seen people getting married all over Montréal, from the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts to the municipal courthouse. For herself, Churchmuch says, “My sweetie and I had a beautiful outdoor wedding at Fritz Farm on the waterfront in Baie d’Urfé. We couldn’t have found a better spot with a huge outdoor garden and a spacious and beautiful turn-of-the-century coach house for dinner and dancing afterwards.” “For anybody considering getting married in Montréal,” Churchmuch says, “or anywhere in Quebec, they need to know that all weddings in the province must go through a long-standing, time-honored Catholic Church tradition: the posting of banns. The wedding banns need to be posted for 20 days before you get married in both the local courthouse and in the location where you are going to be married, for both gay and straight weddings (see sidebar). Hiring a local wedding coordinator, or working with someone like Montréal officiator Reverend Louis LaFrance, can help you navigate the sometimes confusing legal sea involved in getting married internationally, especially when there’s a language barrier. Where to stay? “If you’ve got loads of cash, the St. James is it,” says Churchmuch. “Another high-end and truly lovely option is the Hotel Place D’Armes, where we stayed for a few days after our wedding, before we left for our honeymoon.” Also in Old Montréal, Hotel Nelligan offers luxurious penthouse suites with French doors that open onto a terrace overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. More affordable rooms with historic brick accent walls can also be found at Nelligan, as can traditional European grace. If you’re looking for a more home-grown sleeping experience, check out the Blue Door Guest House and Lindsay’s B & B. Both lesbian-owned, these two accommodations are great choices for the ladies. Blue Door is a full basement suite with a fireplace and a dedicated meditation room. (They offer deep discounts for guests who want to shack up for an extended stay.) Lindsay’s B & B, is centrally located in the heart of the Plateau neighborhood and has air conditioning, which is very important for the balmy Montréal summers. HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA “Our most defining feature is certainly the warmth of our people,” says Lynn Ledwidge with Destination Halifax. “You’ll experience their welcoming nature and friendliness from the moment you arrive.” (It’s not just the people who are warm; Halifax has one of the hottest summers in Canada.) Considering this welcoming posture, it’s no wonder so many American cruise ships dock in Halifax Harbor, the second biggest harbor in the world. LGBT cruise lines include Halifax in their itineraries, too, banking on its romantic allure. Many couples also get caught up in the rapture of love when they dock, either planning ahead or spontaneously deciding to tie the knot. “Twenty same-sex couples aboard Rosie O’Donnell’s R Family Vacations Cruise were married at Pier 21 during their visit to Halifax,” says Ledwidge. “More and more American couples are choosing our city as the backdrop to their very important day.” As the seaside capital of Nova Scotia, Halifax has a “vibrant, active LGBT community,” says Ledwidge. Their annual Pride celebration is held in July each summer (it is July 25 this year), and draws queer Americans from Washington DC, New York, Boston, and Chicago, all of which have direct flights to Halifax. For gay tourists, Ledwidge says, “we don’t roll out the welcome mat because it was never rolled up to begin with! Halifax is so welcoming to all visitors, and we have worked hard to increase our awareness as a welcoming destination through Rainbow Halifax.” It seems their hard work has paid off, as there are a number of amazing venues for LGBT Americans looking to make it legal. The Tall Ship Silva (through Canadian Sailing Expeditions) is one incredible option that gives visitors a true maritime experience. Ideal for an afternoon or evening wedding, Tall Ship Silva is a popular option for LGBT couples and can accommodate up to 150 guests for a private sail around Halifax Harbor with music, a sit-down dinner, or a reception on deck. Another stellar location to get married is Pier 21, Halifax’s immigration museum, which offers a number of unique spaces that range from intimate to extravagant. Just a short drive from Halifax, there are some great venues in which to get married on the water. In Digby, just 1.5 hours from Halifax, the Mountain Gap Inn has 45 acres of beautifully-shaped property. To the north, in Bridgewater, 2.5 hours away, the gay-friendly Fairview Inn is always a solid bet for queer couples—it’s located on Queen Street. The historic inn says outdoor weddings are their specialty and they guarantee it will be an event like no other. Note to you procrastinators or busy bees: the wedding package at The Fairview Inn includes full-service wedding planning. Halifax has an array of gay-friendly accommodations, which run the gamut. “From luxurious honeymoon suites in our great range of hotels to cozy, intimate bed and breakfasts,” adds Ledwidge, Halifax has it all. Located in the heart of downtown, The Westin Nova Scotian is in a prime location with easy access to nearby shopping and dining. Also downtown, the rooms at the Cambridge Suites Hotel offer all the amenities of a suite without the price. Meanwhile, the Chocolate Lake Hotel is perfect for couples looking for a tranquil, lakeside setting, coupled with an incredible view of Halifax. Nearby, you’ll also find Peggy’s Cove, home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. If you’re looking for something even cozier, and off the beaten city path, one great option is The Elephant Nest B & B. A short drive from Halifax, the Elephant Nest is a country place with city sensibilities. Nearby the “Nest” is kayaking, swimming, nature-watching, and some of the best surfing off the Atlantic Ocean in Lawrencetown Beach. Home of North America’s oldest continuous Seaport Farmer’s Market, Halifax has something for everyone and can be the perfect hub for day trips around the province when you’re in town for a wedding. Nearby, the quaint coastal towns of Lunenberg and Mahone Bay are rich in maritime heritage, home to thriving artist colonies, galleries, and museums. The wineries on the hills of Anapolis Valley are less than an hour from Halifax and offer exceptional wines, including ice wine, which is a dessert wine produced by grapes that freeze on the vine. The region is also known for its gourmet herb-infused liquors and artisan cheese. To satisfy your hunger, Halifax will not disappoint. With some of the best Atlantic seafood in the world, the city’s cuisine is exceptional. A few culinary diamonds include Onyx, a sexy spot where they offer live music and a chef’s prix fixe menu each night. Be sure to sit at their backlit white onyx bar and sip one of their legendary mojitos. Hungry for something more Nova Scotian? Stop in at the Five Fishermen and enjoy their mussel/salad bar (complimentary with all main courses). They steam their fresh, cultured mussels and provide a variety of dipping sauces. Mosaic, Halifax’s stab at a supper club, where they serve dinner in a social dining format, is a restaurant where you can share a variety of small plates. Need to unwind after a day of sightseeing? Pull up a chair at the Seven Wine Bar and try a flight of hand-picked wines from all over the world. Pair the wine with the chef’s organic and locally grown creations. If you live on the eastern seaboard and you’re thinking about heading north to tie the knot, Halifax is calling you. “The ease of planning and executing your dream wedding ceremony in Halifax,” Ledwidge says, “makes it a perfect choice for LGBT weddings.” VICTORIA & VANCOUVER ISLAND “The number of LGBTs getting married here grows each year,” says Don Halton owner of the Albion Manor Bed & Breakfast (he owns it with his husband Fernando Garcia) in Victoria, BC’s capital. “A large reason for this is our reputation as a very romantic destination combined with the frustration a lot of Americans feel about the situation at home,” says Halton. Victoria is a great place to visit,” adds Halton. “The olde English ambiance makes it an extremely romantic spot.” Beyond the cozy Albion Manor, which has a lush history dating all the way back to the 1800s, there are many great places to get married. These include the Wickaninnish Inn, which is a five-star luxury resort in Tofino. Its property stunningly juts onto a rocky ocean outcropping. They have an amazing spa, great surfing, and stellar winter storm watching. “We were married on July 4th at Earle Clark House [in Victoria], a lovely historic B & B,” remembers Vancouver immigrant Rich Dalton of he and his husband Luis. “It was just the two of us and the owners were our witnesses. We thought it was ironic that on Independence Day we had to travel to Canada for the pursuit of happiness—the right to legally marry.” Cathy Rey with Tourism Victoria describes the provincial capital as having “spectacular scenery including the Pacific Ocean, mountain vistas, old-growth rainforests, and rolling wine country, which provides a playground for adventures like whale watching, hiking, kayaking, cycling, seaweed harvesting, and gourmet farm and wine touring.” There are some amazing venues for queers to either tie the knot or honeymoon on Vancouver Island, a land mass created by 200 million years of volcanic activity. Beyond the Albion Manor and the Earle Clark House, the Amethyst Inn is one of the most historic B & B’s in Victoria. With old Victorian architecture, a gracious parlor, and private baths, Amethyst is an ideal spot to wed with friends/family or elope. The grand staircase is the perfect aisle to walk down to greet your honey. They offer great wedding and honeymoon packages, too. On the western edge of the island in the town of Sooke, the Sooke Ocean Resort is a deluxe rental that sleeps ten, offers morning breakfast, and is home to a sushi restaurant, Sushi on the Sea. With two lush acres of oceanfront, Sooke Ocean Resort is the perfect spot for an intimate outdoor summer wedding. Also in Sooke, the Ocean Wilderness Inn is surrounded by old growth forest with views of the ocean. Whether you want to marry on a remote beach, by the fire in an old log cabin, or on a hill overlooking crashing waves, the Ocean Wilderness Inn has it all. A charming union of rustic and elegant, the Ocean Wilderness Inn also has an amazing English cottage garden for the big day. No matter where you decide to get married in Canada, odds are in your favor that you’ll be satisfied—according to the United Nations, Canada has the highest quality of life in the world. There is so much goodwill and acceptance among its people, and this benevolence makes it a very special place to get married for everyone. “My advice for the LGBT traveler coming to Canada to get married is to relax and enjoy yourself,” says Scherp. “And remember to be yourself and celebrate with people who support and love you while creating memories you’ll have for the rest of your life.” [Published: May, 2009] Canada Resources Girl Ports is a lesbian travel website with Canada information. www.girlports.com Human Rights Campaign provides marriage ins and outs for Canada (and US). www.hrc.org International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) is a great resource for gay travel throughout the world. www.iglta.org Purple Unions is an online resource to wedding planners, suppliers, and honeymoon ideas. www.purpleunions.com Quebec’s website has all the Quebec marriage information to be sure you’re ready for the big day. www.justice.gouv.qc.ca/english/publications/generale/maria-a.htm Rainbow Weddings Expo hosts events in the US and Canada for gay-positive wedding vendors to reach the LGBT audience. www.rainbowweddingexpo.com Toronto Info has all the online nuts and bolts information needed to plan your Toronto wedding. www.toronto.ca/registry-services/marriage.htm Tourism Vancouver—www.tourismvancouver.com ACCOMMODATIONS Loden Hotel, 1177 Melville St. Tel: 604-669-5060. US$149–$475. www.lodenvancouver.com Nelson House, 977 Broughton St. Tel: 604-684-9793. US$78–$157. www.downtownbedandbreakfast.com Pacific Palisades, 1277 Robson St. Tel: 800-663-1815. US$174–$871. www.pacificpalisadeshotel.com Sandman Suites, 1160 Davie St. Tel: 604-681-7263. US$111–$221. www.sandmanhotels.com Wedwood, 845 Hornby St. Tel: 604-689-7777. US$214–$1,029. www.wedgewoodhotel.com DINING CinCin, 1154 Robson St. Tel: 604-688-7338. www.cincin.net Elixir, Opus Hotel, 350 Davie St. Tel: 604-642-0557. www.elixirvancouver.ca Gerard Lounge, 845 Burrard St. Tel: 604-642-2900. Oasis Cocktail Lounge, 1240 Thurlow St. Tel: 604-685-1724. www.oasisvancouver.com Parkside, 1906 Haro St. Tel: 604-683-6912. www.parksiderestaurant.ca Yew, 791 Georgia St., West Vancouver. Tel: 604-689-9333. www.fourseasons.com WEDDING RESOURCES Dan Enright, Lay Unitarian Chaplain, 949 West 49th Ave. Tel: 604-261-7204. enrightdan@yahoo.ca Ebb Tide B&B, Honeymoon Location, 967 Peninsula Road, Ucluelet, BC, Vancouver Island. Tel: 888-400-0322. www.ebbtidespringcove.com Grouse Mountain, Wedding Venue, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver. Tel: 604-980-9311. www.grousemountain.com Harrison Hot Springs Resort, Honeymoon Location, 100 Esplande Avenue. BC, VOM 10. Tel: 800-663-2266. www.harrisonresort.com Janet R Photography, 650-3495 Cambie St. Tel: 604-767-5557. www.janetrphotography.com LS Photography, 305-260 Raymur Ave. Tel: 778-895-9374. www.lsphotography.ca Karen Ell, Marriage Commissioner, 1846 W 11 Ave. Tel: 604-737-7906. karen.ell@telus.net Ruby Lake Resort, Honeymoon Location, Site 20, Comp 25, RR#1, BC. Tel: 604-883-2269. www.rubylakeresort.com Staley Park, Wedding Venue, Georgia St. Tel: 604-257-8400. www.city.vancouver.bc.ca Sunset Bay Yacht Charters, Wedding Venue, 1601 Bayshore Drive. Tel: 604-689-1227. www.sunsetbaycharters.net Unitarian Church of Vancouver, Wedding Venue, 949 West 49th Ave. Tel: 604.261.7204. www.vancouver.unitarians.ca/cms/site Vancouver Art Museum, Wedding Venue, 750 Hornby St. Tel: 604-688-2233. www.vanartgallery.bc.ca GLBT INFO Gay Whistler (www.gaywhistler.com) Tourism Toronto, Tel: 416-203-2500. www.seetorontonow.com ACCOMMODATIONS Bonnevue Manor, 33 Beaty Ave. Tel: 416-536-1455. US$78–$158. www.torontogayweddings.com Dundonald House, 35 Dundonald St. Tel: 800-260-7227. US$87–$146. www.dundonaldhouse.com Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen Street West. Tel: 416-531-4635. US$146–$376. www.gladstonehotel.com DINING Slack’s, 562 Church St. Tel: 416-928-2151. WEDDING RESOURCES Diane Schmolka, Officiant, 556 Shelley Ave., Ottawa, ON. Tel: 613-733-5219. www.officiant-music.ca Dream Footage Productions, 1178 Dogwood Crescent, Oakville, ON. Tel: 647-231-7326. www.dreamfootage.com Eva Goldfinger, Officiator, Tel: 905-889-7450, www.myperfectceremony.com Essence Banquet Centre, Wedding Venue, 422 Barton St. East, Hamilton, ON. Tel: 905-297-7327. www.essencebanquet.com Gay and Lesbian Weddings in Canada, Tel: 866-651-0165. www.gayandlesbianweddingsincanada.com Gay Toronto Wedding Resources www.seetorontonow.com.aspx Hudson Nuptials, Wedding Planning, 131 Bloor Street W, Suite 200-231. Tel: 416-628-4380. www.hudsonnuptials.com Livingface Photography, 30 Prust Ave.,Tel: 416-732-1904. www.livingface.com Metropolitan Community Church, Wedding Venue, 115 Simpson Ave. Tel: 416-406-6228. www.mcctoronto.com St. James Cathedral, Wedding Venue, 65 Church St. Tel: 416-364-7865. www.stjamescathedral.on.ca Victoria’s Mansion, Honeymoon Location, 68 Gloucester St. Tel: 416-921-4625. www.victoriasmansion.com GLBT INFO ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel Nelligan, 106 rue Saint-Paul Ouest. Tel: 514-788-2040. US$206–$1,148. www.hotelnelligan.com Hotel Place d’Armes, 55 St Jacques. Tel: 514-842-1887. US$210–$950. www.hotelplacedarmes.com Le Jardin d’Antoine, 2024 rue Saint-Denis. Tel: 800-361-4506. US$80–$124. www.aubergelejardindantoine.com Lindsey’s B&B for Women, 3974, avenue Laval. Tel: 514-843-4869. US$66–$120. www.lindseys.ca DINING Le Jardin d’Antoine, 2024 rue Saint-Denis. Tel: 800-361-4506. www.aubergelejardindantoine.com Le Club Chasse et Peche, 423, rue St-Claude. Tel: 514-861-1112. www.leclubchasseetpeche.com Liverpool House/Joe Beef, 2491 Notre Dame West. Tel: 514-935-6504. www.joebeef.ca Toqué, 900, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle. Tel: 514-499-2084. www.restaurant-toque.com WEDDING RESOURCES Hotel de Ville Baie d’Urfé Town Hall, Wedding Venue, 20410 Lakeshore. Tel: 514-457-5324. www.baie-durfe.qc.ca The Ice Hotel, Honeymoon Location, 143, route Duchesnay Pavillion l’Aigle, Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier, QC. www.icehotel-canada.com Lensgirl Photojournalism, Arlene Sandler. Tel: 514-448-8235. www.lensgirl.com Josh Brown Wedding Photography. Tel: 514-583-0875. www.josh-brown.com Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Wedding Venue, 1379 Rue Sherbrooke Est. Tel 514-285-1600. www.mmfa.qc.ca Rev. Louis Lafrance, Officiator. Tel: 418-658-8765. www.louislafrance.com GLBT INFO Luneneberg (www.explorelunenburg.ca) Mahone Bay (www.mahonebay.com) Wines of Nova Scotia (www.winesofnovascotia.ca) ACCOMMODATIONS Chocolate Lake Hotel (Best Western), 20 St. Margaret’s Bay Road. Tel: 877-559-7666. US$79–$115. www.chocolatelakehotel.com The Elephant’s Nest B & B, 127 Pleasant Drive, Gaetz Brook, NS. Tel: 866-633-NEST. US$89–$112. www.elephantsnestbnb.ca Oak Island Resort, Box 6, Western Shore, NS. Tel: 902-627-2600, US$99–US$129. www.oakislandresortandspa.com Westing Nova Scotian, 1181 Hollis St. Tel: 902-421-1000. US$123–$225. www.westin.ns.ca DINING Mosaic Social Dining, 1584 Argyle St. Tel: 902-405-4700. www.mosaicsocialdining.com Five Fisherman, 1740 Argyle St. Tel: 902-422-4421. www.fivefishermen.com Seven Wine Bar & Restaurant, 1579 Grafton St. Tel: 902-444-4777. www.sevenwinebar.com WEDDING RESOURCES Fairview Inn, 25 Queen Street, Bridgewater, NS. Tel: 902-543-2233. www.thefairviewinn.ca Mountain Gap Inn, 217 Highway 1 Smith Cove, Digby, NS. Tel: 902-245-5841. www.mountaingapinn.ca Pier 21, Pier 21 Society, 1055 Marginal Road. www.pier21.ca Seaport Farmer’s Market (www.halifaxfarmersmarket.com) GLBT INFO Gay Halifax (www.gayhalifax.com)
VANCOUVER ISLAND GENERAL TRAVEL ASSISTANCE Tourism Victoria (www.tourismvictoria.com) Tourism Tofino (www.tourismtofino.com) The Life’s Circle Wedding Ceremonies I provide you with a unique wedding ceremony that is highly personal, tailored to your wishes and desires, and involves your input in all aspects of the celebration. * I meet with you for an initial session to discuss your needs and at the same time gain a sense of your family history, and the details of your beginning relationship. Jim is an Ordained Celebrant and Franciscan who belongs to the Third Order of St. Francis of Assisi. He has over twenty years experience in counselling and facilitation. He is currently enrolled in ongoing theology studies at the Masters degree level. Additionally, he is a cancer survivor and author of Fear, Valor, Humour, a story about his healing experience. Jim brings to his work a deep sense of compassion, sensitivity, spirituality, and a wealth of knowledge about the human condition. What is especially unique about the services Jim provides is the concentrated time he spends with your family to create an inspirational, life-centered, special farewell, which is focused on the story of a person’s life. Contact A Downtown Strollers B&B Tel/Fax: (250) 360-1449 TOLL FREE North America email : strollers@shaw.ca Strollers Bed and Breakfast - Located in Downtown Victoria, British Columbia, only minutes from the Inner Harbour, Empress Hotel and Ferry Terminal to Port Angeles and Seattle, WA "Peace, harmony and privacy combine to create a memorable and relaxing vacation" Contact : Tel/Fax: (250) 360-1449 TOLL FREE North America email : strollers@shaw.ca ——————————————————————————————————————————— The Glenelg Bed and Breakfast on the Beautiful Saanich Peninsula near Sidney, not far from Victoria, on Vancouver Island B.C. spacious, west-coast contemporary bed and breakfast, famous for its warm hospitality, and has been licensed and inspected by the Municipality of North Saanich. Unwind at our lovely B&B; wrap yourself in a relaxing atmosphere, a special B&B surrounded by tall trees and nature. Your hosts, Eric and Hayato, welcome you warmly. The Glenelg Bed and Breakfast, Telephone: FAX: E-mail: akabane@telus.net ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— resources: uniquentertainment ACCOMMODATIONS Albion Manor Bed & Breakfast, 224 Superior Street, Victoria. Tel: 877-389-0012. US$94–$158. www.albionmanor.com Amethyst Inn, 1501 Fort St., Victoria. Tel: 250-595-2053. US$255–$309. www.amethyst-inn.com Earl Clark House, 1461 Pembroke St., Victoria. Tel: 866-595-0941. US$115–$230. www.earleclarkehouse.com Ocean Wilderness Inn, 9171 West Coast Rd, Sooke, BC. Tel: 250-646-2116. US$100–$132. www.oceanwildernessinn.com Sooke Ocean Resort, 6669 Horne Rd, Sooke, BC. Tel: 250-744-4908. US$388–$543. www.sookeoceanresort.com WEDDING RESOURCES Creative Exposure, Photography, Tel: 250-370-0501. www.creativr-exposure.com Gay Weddings BC, Wedding Planning. Tel: 250-380-0836. www.gayweddingsbc.com Jane Eaton Hamilton, Photography. Tel: 604-435-9581. www.janeeatonhamiltonphotography.com Laurie E. Smith, Officiant, 1268 Lonsdale Place, Victoria. Tel: 250-477-5568. laurieesmith@shaw.ca Rev. Gail Schultz, Officiant, 7925 E. Saanich Rd., Saanichton, BC. Tel: 250-655-1236. www.victoriacsa.com/weddings Rev. J. McRee (Mac) Elrod, Unitarian Minister. Tel: 250-474-3361. Wickaninnish Inn, Wedding Venue, 500 Osprey Lane, Tofino, BC. Tel: 800-333-4604. www.wickinn.com GLBT RESOURCES with help from Passport magazine
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August 31st, 2009 at 6:11 pm
[...] Buttercup wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptOn the western edge of the island in the town of Sooke, the Sooke Ocean Resort is a deluxe rental that sleeps ten, offers morning breakfast, and is home to a sushi restaurant, Sushi on the Sea. With two lush acres of oceanfront, … [...]
August 31st, 2009 at 7:44 pm
[...] Read more from the original source: OH CANADA!..Go Up North to Marry | The Pink Elephant [...]
September 1st, 2009 at 12:13 am
[...] Continued here: OH CANADA!..Go Up North to Marry | The Pink Elephant [...]
September 1st, 2009 at 5:13 am
[...] Here is the original post: OH CANADA!..Go Up North to Marry | The Pink Elephant [...]
September 1st, 2009 at 8:21 am
Hi There,
What a great article! Up North to Marry! I work for Nova Scotia Tourism and I can tell you that not only Halifax but the rest of Nova Scotia welcomes you as well! If you’re going to get married in Halifax, you might as well stick around for a romantic honeymoon. From Yarmouth to Cape Breton, there are lots of romantic hotels and B&B’s, gorgeous beaches and outdoor activities.
The gay pride parade was a wonderful event this year! Part of a whole week of festivities. We had great weather and amazing participation all capped off with music and entertainment on the Garrison Grounds.
Anyway, all this to say, thanks for including us in your great spots to visit…and get married.
If anyone needs any help planning a trip feel free to send me an email or visit http://www.novascotia.com.
Cynthia
Cynthia@novascotia.com
September 1st, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Great article, thanks for publishing!
http://www.tourismvancouver.com
December 18th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
Hiya!. Thanks a bunch for the blog. I’ve been digging around looking some info up for shool, but i think i’m getting lost!. Yahoo lead me here – good for you i suppose! Keep up the good work. I will be coming back in a few days to see if there is any more info.
April 22nd, 2010 at 5:02 am
Thank you. My partner and i always appreciate reading well written articles and blogposts regarding dining room furniture and as well as , various decorating strategies. I am preparing to do spring remodeling, and am always searching for first-rate strategies to motivate us.
July 31st, 2010 at 11:17 pm
I really found your blog helpful. Although I know some about the topic, I haven’t ever come across the information that you wrote about. Appreciate the post.