Eloping in Ontario can be just as meaningful and memorable as a big wedding—without the pressure. I’ve always loved the intimacy and wildness of elopements. There’s something powerful about setting aside tradition and doing what feels true to you. If you're planning a simple ceremony somewhere beautiful in Ontario, here’s a detailed checklist to help make sure nothing important slips through the cracks.
Legal Requirements in Ontario
Even the most spontaneous elopement still needs to follow some legal steps.
What you need:
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Marriage Licence
You can apply at any municipal office in Ontario. It’s valid for 90 days. Both people need valid government-issued ID (like a driver’s licence or passport). -
Registered Officiant
You must be married by someone licensed to perform weddings in Ontario. -
Two Witnesses
Legally required. If you're eloping just the two of you, ask your officiant—many can provide witnesses or recommend someone. -
Marriage Certificate
After your ceremony, your officiant submits the licence and you can order your official certificate online from Service Ontario.
Choosing a Location
There are no limits to where you can elope in Ontario—from rocky lakeshores to quiet forests or even your own backyard.
Types of locations:
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City Hall or Courthouse
Quick, affordable, and easy to plan. Great if you want a low-fuss ceremony and a celebration later. -
Provincial or National Parks
Places like Algonquin, Killbear, or Bruce Peninsula are stunning, but some require a permit for ceremonies or photography. Always check ahead. -
Conservation Areas
Many are beautiful and affordable. Again, check about photography or gathering permits. -
Private Property or Airbnb
A rented cabin or friend’s cottage gives privacy and flexibility. Always get the owner's permission. -
Your Backyard or a Family Farm
If you're lucky enough to have access to space, this can be the most intimate and affordable option of all.
Seasonal Considerations
Ontario’s seasons are beautiful but unpredictable. Dress and plan accordingly.
Spring (March–May)
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Can be cold and muddy, especially in forests or on trails
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Layers and waterproof footwear are a must
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Snow may linger into early April in northern regions
Summer (June–August)
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Warm and lush, but plan around humidity and sudden rain
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Bring water, shade, and bug spray for outdoor locations
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Weekday ceremonies are quieter in parks
Fall (September–October)
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Crisp air, beautiful colours, and earlier sunsets
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Pack extra layers and consider a backup indoor option
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Early October is peak foliage in most of Ontario
Winter (November–February)
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Quiet, magical, and cozy if you plan right
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Choose indoor or semi-covered options unless you're truly adventurous
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Boots, coats, and hand warmers make a difference
What to Wear and Pack
Your outfit doesn’t need to be traditional—it just needs to be comfortable and make you feel like yourself.
Clothing tips:
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Choose weather-appropriate fabrics
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Wear shoes you can walk in (especially if you're in nature)
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Consider a backup pair of socks or tights
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Bring a sweater, wrap, or coat—especially in cooler seasons
Day-of essentials:
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Printed directions or offline maps
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Water, snacks, tissues, compact mirror
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Clear umbrella or rain jacket
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Blanket or towel if you're sitting on the ground
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Your marriage licence and ID
Optional Vendors
Eloping doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Here are some vendors you might want to include.
Photographer
A good elopement photographer will feel like a friend who just happens to take beautiful photos. Look for someone comfortable with outdoor locations, small groups, and flexible timelines. Ask about mini sessions or 1–2 hour packages.
I used to be a photographer myself, and elopements were always my favourite. I felt connected to each couple like I had known them for years—there’s something about those quiet, intentional moments that brings people closer.
Officiant
Some officiants offer short and sweet ceremonies; others will help you build something personal from scratch. Ask if they’ll travel to your location and if they include help with filing the paperwork.
Florist
You don’t need a full floral plan to make the day beautiful. Many florists offer:
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A la carte bouquets and boutonnières
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Dried flowers (which travel well and last forever—see mine here)
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DIY kits or pickup bundles
Other options include:
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Grocery store bouquets, with a ribbon and some trimming
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Artificial flowers from Michaels
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Making your own bouquet with help from YouTube tutorials
Estimated Budget (for a simple elopement)
| Item | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Marriage Licence | $145 |
| Officiant | $250–$500 |
| Photographer (1–2 hours) | $600–$1200 |
| Bouquet & boutonnière | $80–$200 |
| Light meal, picnic or dinner | $50–$150 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1125–$2195 |
Final Tips
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Schedule your elopement for early morning or golden hour for best light and fewer crowds
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Bring a small speaker if you want to play music
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Write your vows ahead of time and keep them somewhere safe
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Plan a small celebration after—dinner, a picnic, or cake for two
An Ontario elopement can be as simple or special as you want it to be. Whether you’re getting married under a pine tree or at a downtown courthouse, what matters most is that it feels like you.
If you're looking for local, naturally grown wedding flowers, I’d be honoured to help make your day even more personal. I offer custom dried bouquets for couples across Canada, with options for every kind of elopement.