The Ultimate Vancouver Island Wedding Planning Timeline

Planning a wedding on Vancouver Island requires careful consideration of the region's unique characteristics, from its seasonal weather patterns to vendor availability in different communities. This comprehensive timeline will help you navigate the planning process to create your perfect Vancouver Island wedding.

12+ Months Before

Set your budget: Determine your overall budget and how it will be allocated across different aspects of your wedding.
Choose your season: Consider Vancouver Island's weather patterns when selecting your date. Summer offers the most reliable weather but is also peak tourist season with higher prices.
Book your venue: Popular Vancouver Island venues often book 12-18 months in advance, especially for summer weddings.
Hire a local planner: A Vancouver Island-based wedding planner will have invaluable knowledge of local vendors and venues.

9-12 Months Before

Book key vendors: Secure your photographer, caterer, and entertainment, as the best professionals on the island get booked quickly. For pricing expectations and coverage options, see How much does a wedding photographer cost in BC?.
Begin accommodation research: If many guests will be traveling to Vancouver Island, research accommodation options and consider reserving blocks of rooms.
Consider transportation: Depending on your venue location, you may need to arrange ferries, shuttles, or other transportation for guests.

6-9 Months Before

Choose your wedding party: Ask friends and family to be part of your special day.
Shop for attire: Begin looking for wedding attire, keeping in mind Vancouver Island's weather for your chosen month.
Plan your menu: Work with your caterer to create a menu highlighting Vancouver Island's local and seasonal ingredients.
Book remaining vendors: Secure florists, cake designers, rental companies, and other necessary services.

4-6 Months Before

Send save-the-dates: Give guests ample time to plan their trip to Vancouver Island, including ferry or flight reservations.
Plan your rehearsal dinner: Research restaurants or venues for your rehearsal dinner.
Arrange activities: Consider organizing pre-wedding activities that showcase Vancouver Island's natural beauty or local attractions.

2-4 Months Before

Send invitations: Include information about traveling to and around Vancouver Island for out-of-town guests.
Finalize menu and cake: Complete tastings and confirm your selections.
Schedule hair and makeup trials: Work with local beauty professionals for trials.
Apply for marriage license: In British Columbia, marriage licenses are valid for 3 months from the issue date.

1-2 Months Before

Create timeline: Develop a detailed timeline for your wedding day.
Confirm all details: Touch base with all vendors to confirm arrangements.
Plan welcome bags: Consider including local Vancouver Island treats and information about the area for out-of-town guests.

2-4 Weeks Before

Final venue walkthrough: Visit your venue with your planner to finalize all details.
Confirm guest count: Provide final numbers to your venue and caterer.
Create seating chart: Finalize your seating arrangements.
Pack for honeymoon: If honeymooning on Vancouver Island, research local attractions and make necessary reservations.

1 Week Before

Final check-ins: Confirm all details with vendors one last time.
Welcome guests: Greet early arrivals and distribute welcome bags.
Rehearsal and dinner: Practice the ceremony and enjoy a meal with your close friends and family.

Wedding Day

Relax and enjoy: Trust your vendors and coordinator to handle the details while you soak in every moment of your Vancouver Island wedding.

By following this timeline and working with knowledgeable local vendors, you'll create a memorable Vancouver Island wedding that perfectly reflects your love story against one of Canada's most beautiful backdrops.