Why Nova Scotia is THE Destination Wedding Spot. Pt 1
Nova Scotia, Oh Nova Scotia. How beautiful art thou. No but seriously. My husband and I moved back to the east coast in 2020 after being in Montreal for 14 years and I’d just like to say, that I have a lot to say on it’s beauty and how incredible it is for weddings. With its captivating landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, it all offers some impressive backdrops for couples seeking a memorable destination wedding experience. From the historic streets of downtown Halifax to the rugged beauty of Cape Breton and luxurious retreats like Fox Harb'r Resort, Nova Scotia has something to offer for every couple's dream wedding. Today I’ll be focusing on Halifax specifically. In later articles, we’ll explore the above mentioned spots as well as some others. So stay tuned for those and subscribe so you don’t miss out!
Downtown Halifax
Nestled along the scenic shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Halifax’s waterfront has recently undergone a massive modern face lift. The $200 million dollar Queen’s Marque renovation has not only made the waterfront beautiful, but it has also provided some incredible photo op locations. Honestly, you are stuck with one problem here, LOTS of options!
I have shot many a wedding there since it’s completion and I’m here for it. Rain or shine- there are so many photo ops and you can even include large bridal parties to walk along the waterfront or duck in under one of the pathways along the Muir Hotel, as you can see here:
I recently had a true Nova Scotia Elopement where the couple drove from Toronto with their puppy and it was just us 3, their friend and the officiant. They allowed me to choose their ceremony location and I thought of none other than the stairs above the “Rise Again” building which quite literally ‘rise up’ to a beautiful waterfront lookout. More on Mario and Cindy’s Elopement here!
George’s Island
Aside from the waterfront there is also Georges Island, a shall we say.. dark history…it was originally used as Halifax’s first prison! It’s just a quick 10 minute boat ride from the Halifax waterfront and is pretty fun to walk around as a couple and take photos. If you love old ruins be sure to add it to your list of photo opportunities.
an intimate moment between a bride and her groom as he kisses her hand. so sweet!
The Halifax Club
Looking for something a little more classic? There are many options in Halifax from hotels to specialized venues. The Halifax Club which I go in great detail here as to why it’s hands down, my favorite Halifax wedding venue is a wonderful option to consider.
The Muir Hotel located in the center of downtown Halifax is nothing short of opulent. Their suites offer ample room to get ready with your party and the outside is a photographers playground for capturing you both! With 9 (YES NINE!) restaurants and eateries connected to the hotel you’ll have something for each of your guests and guess what, they all offer photo ops. (win win!) All are artfully designed with their own unique flair.
Here’s a shot in one of their landmarks- Bar Sofia:
Mario and Cindy having some champagne before they say their I do's at Bar Sophia
With a plethora of wedding venues ranging from elegant ballrooms to intimate rooftop gardens, downtown Halifax offers endless possibilities for couples to create their perfect day. And let's not forget the abundance of picturesque photo opportunities around every corner, from the cobblestone streets of Historic Properties to the lush oasis of the Halifax Public Gardens.
Citadel Hill
Citadel Hill in Halifax is a historic and iconic location, offering breathtaking views of the city and harbor, making it a fantastic spot for a wedding. The hill is home to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, a 19th-century fort with rich cultural significance. Couples who love history or want a unique venue will appreciate the fortress's heritage, which adds character and a sense of timelessness to their special day.
The panoramic views from Citadel Hill are unbeatable, providing a scenic backdrop for both ceremonies and wedding photos. Whether it’s the lush greenery of summer or the crisp, clear skies of autumn, the natural beauty surrounding the hill elevates any event. The view of Halifax Harbor and the city skyline ensures your wedding feels both intimate and connected to the vibrant urban life below.
Moreover, the Citadel offers flexible venue options for weddings, including outdoor spaces and historical rooms within the fortress itself. Hosting your ceremony or reception here can be a one-of-a-kind experience, combining history, stunning landscapes, and a central location. It’s a perfect setting for couples looking to celebrate their love in a place that truly captures the essence of Halifax. If you want to see a wedding that was actually shot there, by me- click here!
When is the best time to get Married in Halifax?
The best time to get married in downtown Halifax largely depends on the season, as the city offers unique charms throughout the year. For couples seeking mild weather and picturesque outdoor settings, late spring to early fall (May to September) is ideal. This period features pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant greenery, which make outdoor venues like the Halifax Public Gardens or the waterfront perfect for ceremonies and photos. Additionally, summer in Halifax brings longer daylight hours and a festive atmosphere, thanks to various events like festivals and concerts, adding to the vibrancy of the city.
However, for those who prefer a cozier, more intimate setting, winter weddings in Halifax can also be magical. The city’s historic architecture, combined with the twinkling holiday lights and potential snow, creates a romantic backdrop. Venues like The Prince George Hotel or Pier 21 offer warm, indoor options, while also allowing couples to embrace the beauty of the season. Winter weddings also tend to be less expensive and less competitive when booking venues, making it an attractive choice for couples on a budget or those seeking a quieter, more personal celebration.
So there you have it! Part I as to why having a Nova Scotia Wedding is seriously a great idea. If you’re looking for east coast vibes, with an urban flare, the downtown Halifax area is 100% what you’re looking for. There are amazing wedding planners too if planning your wedding from afar feels too daunting. One of our cities best is Stephanie, owner of Sky’s the Limit. She knows each and every venue, florist and any other vendor you need to make your day complete. Reach out to her for any inquiries and feel free to contact me to inquire for wedding pricing.
There are so many other locations I’ll be talking about in future articles so stick around and subscribe below!