Eloping is a deeply personal and romantic way to celebrate your love, focusing on what truly matters: each other. If you’re considering eloping, Ontario offers an incredible array of stunning locations and experiences that are perfect for your special day. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your dream elopement in Ontario, from choosing the perfect location to understanding the legal requirements.


Where is Ontario?


Ontario is Canada’s second-largest province, located in the east-central part of the country. It’s bordered by Quebec to the east, Manitoba to the west, and the United States to the south, with over 250,000 lakes and rivers dotted throughout its vast landscape. Ontario is home to vibrant cities like Toronto and Ottawa, as well as breathtaking natural wonders such as Niagara Escarpment, Algonquin Provincial Park, and the La Cloche Mountains (Yes, there are mountains in Ontario). With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and wide range of activities, Ontario is an ideal place for couples looking to elope.


Why Elope in Ontario?


Eloping in Ontario offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and convenience. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene lakeside ceremony, a cozy winter elopement in a snow-covered forest, or an urban celebration with a skyline view, Ontario has it all. Here are a few reasons why Ontario is a fantastic choice for your elopement:


  1. Diverse Landscapes: Ontario’s varied landscapes allow you to choose a location that reflects your personal style and vision, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches, lush forests, and charming small towns.
  2. Seasonal Beauty: Ontario offers something special in every season. From the vibrant fall foliage to the peaceful winter wonderland, the province’s changing seasons create a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos.
  3. Accessibility: With major international airports in Toronto and Ottawa, Ontario is easily accessible for couples coming from other provinces or countries.
  4. Legal Simplicity: Ontario’s marriage laws are straightforward, making it easy for Ontario citizens to legally tie the knot without a lot of red tape.


Best Ontario Elopement Locations


Ontario has no shortage of beautiful natural landscapes to say your “I Dos” in an intimate elopement ceremony. Here are some locations to consider: 

 

  1. Algonquin Provincial Park: This vast wilderness area is perfect for couples who love the outdoors. With its serene lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, Algonquin offers countless secluded spots for a nature-inspired elopement. You can have a backcountry experience or live it up summer camp style in one of the gorgeous lodges that call this park home.
  2. Prince Edward County: Get hitched in Ontario’s northern wine country! There are places right on the Lake Ontario coastline or head inland to the sand dunes or the vineyards for your nuptials. Plus there are so many rentals and hotels in the area if you decide to include guests in your elopement.
  3. Bruce Peninsula: Bruce Peninsula is known for its turquoise waters and rugged beauty. The steep cliffs, coves and endless trails make this a spectacular place for adventurous couples to elope in Ontario. 
  4. Muskoka: Known as cottage country, Muskoka is a beloved destination for those seeking a classic Ontario experience. With its numerous lakes, charming cabins, and peaceful forests, it’s a perfect place for a rustic elopement. There are so many places here, from a lakeside cabin to a forested lookout that you could choose for your ceremony.
  5. Courthouse elopements: Ontario has some gorgeous architecture, so why not say your “I Dos” at a stunning courthouse in Ontario? It’s a great place for those who still want to include a few family members.


For more location ideas read: Best Places to Elope in Ontario


Best Time of year to Elope in Ontario


The best part about Ontario is our four, very distinct seasons that offer so many new and fun landscapes. Ontario’s climate varies greatly depending on the season, and each season offers its own unique beauty:


  1. Spring (April to June): If you’re hoping to get married in Spring in Ontario, beware. Early spring in Ontario can look like snow, ice and mud, whereas later spring can bring on bugs. Spring elopers beware – the further north you go, the worse the bugs get, from relentless blackflies to swarms of mosquitos late spring and early summer can be brutal bug seasons. However, indoor locations can be perfect for those looking to tie the knot in spring.
  2. Summer (July to September): Summer is the most popular time for elopements due to the warm weather and long daylight hours. Beaches, lakesides, and outdoor venues are especially beautiful during this time.
  3. Fall (October to November): Fall in Ontario is simply magical. The vibrant autumn colours create a breathtaking backdrop, especially in forested areas with lookouts like Algonquin Park or the Niagara Escarpment. The cooler weather also makes it a comfortable time for outdoor ceremonies.
  4. Winter (December to March): Winter elopements in Ontario have a special kind of magic, with snow-covered landscapes creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Consider locations like Muskoka or Blue Mountain for a winter wonderland experience.



How to get legally married in Ontario


Getting legally married in Ontario is a straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:


  1. Obtain a Marriage Licence: You’ll need to apply for a marriage licence, which can be obtained from any municipal office in Ontario. Some you can do online! Both partners must be present, and you’ll need to bring two pieces of valid identification and the required fee (which varies depending on the location). The licence is valid for three months.
  2. Choose an Officiant: In Ontario, your marriage must be solemnized by either a registered marriage officiant (a religious official who is registered with the Office of the Registrar General) or a civil marriage officiant (a municipal clerk, judge of justice of the peace).
  3. Have Two Witnesses: You’ll need two witnesses present at your ceremony, both of whom must be at least 18 years old. Your photographer can be your witness!
  4. Register Your Marriage: After the ceremony, your officiant will register your marriage with the province. You can then apply for a marriage certificate, which is the legal proof of your marriage.


For more details on getting legally hitched, check out the Ontario government website. 

Fun Activities and ideas for your Ontario Elopement


An elopement isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about creating a memorable experience that reflects your love story. Here are some fun activities and ideas to consider:


  1. Take a Scenic Hike: Ontario is home to countless hiking trails that offer stunning views. There are so many to choose from based on your activity level and what you want to see on the hike. (I have so many in mind, so if you’re considering a hiking elopement, hit me up and we can chat about locations!)
  2. Go on a canoe adventure: Explore Ontario’s plentiful lakes by renting (or bringing) a canoe for a paddle on your elopement day. It’s a peaceful and picturesque way to spend your day.
  3. Go out for a sail on one of the great lakes: If a canoe isn’t your style, why not a sailboat on Lake Ontario or Georgian Bay?
  4. Explore Ontario’s Wineries: Spend a day touring the wineries in Prince Edward County or Niagara-on-the-Lake. Enjoy wine tastings, vineyard picnics, and a romantic dinner at a winery restaurant.
  5. Take flight in a helicopter: Explore Ontario by air and take an adventurous and scenic helicopter ride to make your elopement truly so special.
  6. Camp or Glamp: Hit up the Ontario wilderness by camping or glamping in one of e hundreds of parks or private campgrounds across Ontario. Bring some s’mores and pop the bubbly for this relaxing way to spend your elopement.
  7. Have a summer camp vibe at a lodge: Live your best Parent Trap life and elope at one of Ontario’s many lodges. Get the best of both worlds with a gorgeous wilderness location and a comfortable and cozy place to get ready in.
  8. Bring on the Butterflies: There are several butterfly conservatories in Ontario, so If you love that humid tropical vibe while being surrounded by the prettiest butterflies, then a conservatory might be a great palace for you.
  9. Stargaze in a dark sky preserve: Ontario is home to around eight dark sky preserves, some more remote than others. So let’s take this elopement to the dark side and experience the true beauty of the night sky.
  10. Rock climb: Do you love scaling cliffs? Because Ontario’s got ‘em and so you can totally work in climbing into your elopement activities!
  11. Go snowshoeing: Winter is 6-8 months a year depending on where in Ontario you live, so grab those vintage snowshoes an head outside for some winter activity fun.
  12. Ride in a hot air balloon: You + me + sunrise + hot air balloon = absolute magic! How unique would that be! There are a few companies in Ontario that offer hot air balloon rides, so if that’s your style, then I’m in!
  13. Rent a vintage car and head out to the backroads: What I love most about living in rural Ontario is driving along all the incredible scenic backroads. I always think how pretty a spot would be for part of an elopement.
  14. Have a privately catered meal al fresco: If you’re a foodie, celebrate that with a shared meal under the warm summer night surrounded by your closest people. Cheers to that.
  15. Go for a swim: Those Ontario lakes are just begging for you to jump in and enjoy them! By a special wedding bathing suit for the occasion or jump in with your dress and/or suit! 


READ MORE: 10 scenic lookouts in Ontario where you can elope


Meet your Ontario Elopement Photographer

Hey there, I'm Olivia

I’m your goofy hype-girl who is always down to clown for your elopement plans. Whether you have an idea of what you want your day to look like or need some inspiration, I’m ready to help you build your elopement day of your dreams and photograph it!

I’m all about going with the flow and making magic happen for your elopement. I let you guys enjoy every moment, and I’ll work to capture the story of your day.

read about the Wild Peach Experience

Ontario Elopement packages and pricing


I offer a variety of Ontario (and destination) elopement collections to fit your elopement dreams, from quick ceremonies to two-day epic adventures, I’m here for it all.


Here are a few things that are included with every Ontario elopement package:


  • Consultation and planning assistance to help bring your dreams to life
  • Access to my exclusive Elopement Guide
  • Location research and personalized timelines
  • Travel within Ontario included
  • Digital gallery to make it easy to view, share, download and print.


To get all the details, reach out and tell me about your dream elopement.


READ MORE: Tips for Eloping in Ontario Provincial Parks

Sample Ontario Elopement Timelines & Itineraries


Planning an elopement allows you the freedom to create a day that is entirely your own. Whether you envision a sunrise ceremony by a lake or a hike to a secluded lookout, crafting a perfect timeline lets your day flow smoothly and allows me to capture all the magic. Below you’ll find a few sample timelines that are tailored to different elopement activities and locations across Ontario, designed to inspire and guide you as you plan your unforgettable day. 


READ MORE: Lake-side ceremony for Ontario Parks elopement


Epic Two-Day Ontario Elopement


1 PM - Getting ready at a private cabin in cottage country

3 PM - First look at the cabin

5 PM - Helicopter tour of the Georgian Bay Archipelago

6 PM - Land on a private island for the ceremony

7 PM - Dinner for two back at the cabin followed by a bonfire

12 AM - Photos under the stars at a Dark Sky preserve

5:30 AM - Up early to get ready

7 AM - Hike to a lookout for sunrise

10 AM – Head back to a cottage for breakfast and coffee with friends and family

Noon – Coverage ends

8-hour Backcountry Elopement


Noon – Get ready at a campsite

2 PM – Paddle out to ceremony location

3 PM – Exchange vows

3:30 PM – Canoe activity photos

4:30 PM – Paddle back

6 PM – Cookout at campsite

7:30 PM – Sunset photos, lakeside

8 PM – Coverage ends

8 hour Elopement with Guests


2 PM – Get ready at private cottage

4 PM – Exchange vows at forest ceremony location in front of closest family and friends

4:30 PM – Group photos

5:30 PM – A meal al fresco with your people

7 PM– Sunset photos at a nearby spot

8 PM – Bonfire and smores

10 PM – Coverage ends


4 hour Sunrise Elopement


5 AM – Meet at trailhead

6 AM – Reach the lookout, change into your wedding attire

6:30 AM – Exchange vows at sunrise – time to pop the champagne

7 AM - Couples photos

8 AM – Start hiking back

9 AM – Coverage ends


Eloping in Ontario offers a world of possibilities, from the breathtaking locations to the intimate experiences that make your day uniquely yours. Whether you’re drawn to the province’s natural beauty, its vibrant cities, or the ease of planning, Ontario is the perfect place to begin your next adventure together.