Sanctuary Weddings
Sanctuary Gardens is located on a private acreage in West Kelowna overlooking Okanagan Lake's scenic Gellatly Bay. A vineyard above rolling hills, natural sage, native bunch grass as well as numerous species of birds and other wildlife distinguish this unique property which is surrounded by dramatic views of the mountains and lake. The chapel-inspired gazebo is the focal point, built to take maximum advantage of the site while providing a private location for smaller, intimate outdoor wedding ceremonies, vow renewals and photo sessions. Visitors have the sense that they are perched at the edge of the world as they experience the true meaning of "sanctuary" - "a sacred space."
The timber frame Sanctuary can accommodate up to 40-50 guests under the roof, with a centre aisle and a ceremony area under the covered rose arbour on the lake view side of the gazebo.
Rental includes the private use of the garden estate with the Sanctuary gazebo as well as the Rose Room with garden courtyard from noon to 5 p.m. on the day of your wedding date. Within that time frame you may choose your ceremony start, followed by a relaxed time after your nuptials for family and wedding party photos and visiting in the gardens. Access to the grounds is available anytime after 12 p.m., when drop offs and decorating can be done in advance of. Note that if the gardens are available, morning decorating time before noon is also possible. Since Sanctuary Gardens is rented as a daytime ceremony site, all rentals (including clean up) must be completed by 5 p.m. and any ceremonies going beyond that or into the evening must be pre-approved and are subject to availability. Sometimes newlyweds wish to stay beyond 5 p.m. for some extra photos and that is an option but also must be pre-approved to ensure the availability.
Note that ceremonies take place under the gazebo but in the case of inclement weather, there is also the option to set up in the Rose Room. Timber framed and white washed like the gazebo structure, the Rose Room adds an extra insurance “Plan B” option for outdoor ceremonies which are always subject to the weather. On sunny days, it can be opened up on three sides for a summerhouse feel, with the benefit of additional shade area for the comfort of wedding party and guests. It also serves as the perfect place where the bride can wait upon arrival for the ceremony without being seen and to do any last minute prep before the processional entrance.
Also included in the rental is a complimentary rehearsal hour the day before your wedding.
For your convenience, Cross Back Chairs (wood toned) are provided in the wedding package with set up and take down included. As well, all onsite ceremony decor is available to use free of charge and includes items like a white vintage signing table, silver vintage chandelier, wine barrels and extra display tables. The Sanctuary gazebo has overhead lighting for evening weddings as well as electrical outlets for ceremony music (bring your own music/speaker, DJ or musician). Washroom facilities are located nearby in the garden courtyard. The Sanctuary is wheelchair accessible.
- No dinner/appie receptions with food or drink allowed (excluding water).
- Wedding ceremony package pricing for the 2025 wedding season is $5000 (plus 5% GST) for up to 50 guests. For smaller elopements, reduced rates are offered but quoted based on guest numbers and day of the week.
- Decorating is allowed but no nailing/pinning into the timber frame structure or causing damage to anything including trees, chairs, etc. Fresh flower petals are allowed but please no confetti or bird seed.
- It's all about the love at the Sanctuary so a donation from every wedding hosted here is given to a charity of the couple's choice.
- To book your date, a $500 nonrefundable down payment (plus 5% GST) and the signing of a rental agreement is required. The balance is due three months before wedding date.
- Due to the number of inquiries, dates cannot be held and are only secured once the nonrefundable deposit is received and both parties complete the rental agreement.
Photos By Minted Photography
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