Please note that the Gardens are designed for Ceremonies only – no food and beverages permitted.
- Where at The Gardens at the Historical Bow Valley Ranche can I have my wedding ceremony?
The Heritage Gazebo is set in the spectacular, historic Native Garden showcasing a landscape representing the indigenous species of this area. The Gazebo will feature the Wedding Party, with guests standing on the pathway viewing the ceremony. This area is designed for up to 100 standing.
Amphitheatre - this designated area of the Garden, has been developed to represent a natural stone amphitheatre. This Slate Rock seating area is for intimate, casual ceremonies. The Amphitheatre holds up to 30 persons standing.
The Artisan Gardens: this Amphitheater style seating will feature 24 benches and will accommodate family celebrations, children’s out door learning opportunities and public events for up to 100 people. This location is currently under development please contact bowvalleyranche@gmail.com construction completion date.
- How many chairs does the Gazebo Area hold?
While this is not designed for sit down ceremonies, consideration can be given under special circumstances for honoured guests. To a maximum of 10 chairs.
- When do I need to reserve my date, and do you take a deposit?
The Gardens has become a very popular wedding ceremony location in the last few years and Saturdays in the summer usually book up about 3 - 6 months in advance. We recommend you book the location as soon as you set your date to avoid disappointment.
- What happens in case of rain or flooding?
Unfortunately, The Gardens does not have a covered area that can be used for your wedding ceremony in case of rain. Most reception venues will allow you to use their space as a backup ceremony location in the case of inclement weather. The Gardens at the Ranche strongly recommends you have an alternate location not only in case of rain but any kind of inclement weather. If you do not have your ceremony at The Gardens due to inclement weather, your booking fees will not be refunded.
- Will the general public be allowed in the area while my ceremony is going on?
The location of the ceremony is reserved for your use during your ceremony, and the gardens will do its best to ensure only your guests access the designated area. However, The Gardens is a public place and as such we cannot guarantee the same level of privacy as an indoor location.
- Do you have security for my chairs and other items?
The Society is not responsible for your personal or rental property while it is on our site. We recommend you designate a family member or friend to be on site during the items’ arrival and stay there until they are removed.
- Do you provide chairs and other rental items?
The Society does not have any chairs or other items available for rent. Our preferred supplier is Great Events Group: www.greateventsgroup.ca.
- Do you provide electricity for my sound system?
Currently there is no electricity available. The Society is working to rectify this deficiency.
- Are decorations allowed on the site?
Due the Historic nature of this location, we do not allow any staples, tacks, nails, tape (mechanical fasteners) to be used when decorating the area . You are welcome to use string or wire to hold up decorations. We do strongly request that no evidence of your decorations be left at the completion of your event.
- When can I set up for my ceremony?
Your set up time is part of the allocated time for the event.
- Can I drive my limo onto the site?
No vehicles are permitted to drive right to the location of your ceremony.
- Do you have parking for my guests?
We recommend your guest’s park in Fish Creek general parking lots just south and east of the Gardens.
- Do you allow confetti, rose petals or other items to be scattered?
The Gardens does not allow confetti, rose petals or any other items to be thrown. Following the ceremony, the site must be left in the condition in which it was found in consideration for events to follow yours.
- Do you allow pets to be part of the ceremony?
Pets are welcome to be part of your ceremony provided they are on a leash and you clean up after them.
- Is there a fee to take pictures?
There is no fee to take pictures at the Gardens. We just ask that you are respectful of other site users and the site itself.
- Are there washrooms on site?
There are washrooms located in the Bow Valley Ranche Visitor Centre Washrooms and are open during park hours up to 1 hour prior to closing.March 1 - April 30 08:00 - 20:00 (8:00 p.m.) Spring
May 1 - September 5 08:00 - 22:00 (10:00 p.m.) Summer
September 6 - October 30 08:00 - 20:00 (8:00 p.m.) Fall
- Will there be other events happening at The Gardens on my wedding day?
The Gardens is a very busy place with many events year-round. The Gardens will not book an event on our property that will conflict with your wedding.
- What if we misplace the lock for the Gazebo?
There will be a $50.00 replacement fee charged to you.