Ready to say “I do” without the long wait?
When the moment feels right, no rule says you have to spend months (or years) planning a big wedding. Whether you’ve always wanted to elope or you’re embracing a little spontaneity, our Simply Shotgun package is designed for couples who are ready to get married within 30 days. No fuss, no stress, just your love story in the heart of the Rockies.

At Elope in Banff, we believe quick can still be magical. Our team takes care of every detail—venue, officiant, paperwork, and photography – so you can show up, soak it all in, and celebrate the start of forever. Framed by mountaintops and alpine lakes, your intimate ceremony will be anything but rushed.

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a last-minute elopement in Banff.

Planning A “Shotgun Wedding”: Essentials to Know

Before we get into the specifics of what you need to prepare for a “shotgun” wedding, let’s take a moment to discuss what a “shotgun” ceremony actually is. While the term itself remains popular in the industry, the word is more of a tongue-in-cheek reference to weddings that are smaller in nature and planned with a very short turnaround time.

When we talk about shotgun weddings, we mean true elopements with just the wedding couple and a ceremony date of less than 30 days. These small-style ceremonies are full of intimacy and convenience and allow you to celebrate your love in a stress-free manner that’s just right for you. While planning a quick turnaround elopement may be far less complicated than you think (especially with the help of an experienced team like Elope in Banff!), there are a few details and requirements you’ll need to be aware of if you want to make your ceremony legally binding.  Key factors to consider are: 

Marriage License: Before you can legally say “I do,” you’ll need to apply for a marriage license issued from any Alberta registry office. Applying is a relatively simple process that requires your ID (passport, driver’s license), and, if either of you has been previously married, a divorce certificate or death certificate. 

Officiant: The Province of Alberta requires couples to use a legally registered officiant to make their vows binding. EIB is proud to have partnerships with both religious officiants and civil marriage commissioners so couples feel comfortable exchanging vows.

Witnesses: In order for your paperwork to be considered legally binding, you’ll need at least two witnesses. Since Elope in Banff’s “shotgun” package is designed for just the eloping couple, we’re happy to stand beside you as your legal witnesses. 

Date Flexibility: Since shotgun weddings are meant to be more spontaneous, and Elope in Banff requires that couples book this package no more than 30 days in advance, it’s best to be flexible with your preferred date. This will ensure that we’re able to book an officiant and may also be beneficial to securing accommodations if you plan on arriving in advance and/or staying in the area after your ceremony.

Who’s the Perfect Couple for a Shotgun Wedding?

While anyone can enjoy the intimacy of an elopement, quick turnaround ceremonies are well-suited to couples who want to capture the magic of their love story while embracing spontaneity and letting go of the stresses associated with traditional weddings. Shotgun weddings are a fantastic celebration for couples who are: 

• Carefree & Adventurous
• Romantic & Spontaneous
• Lovers of Adventure

If you love the idea of forgoing stressing over details and want to simply show up and get married, a shotgun wedding may be right for you! 

Planning Your Stay: Accommodations in Banff

Banff is the epitome of  Rocky Mountain romance, and it’s also one of the most popular destinations in Canada during the summer and winter. If you’re eloping during the peak seasons, be sure to plan ahead for your stay. You want to focus on your love and your day! Although we do not coordinate your accommodations for you, we are always willing to give recommendations to our local favourite places to stay. 

Wedding Attire: Effortless Romance for Your Shotgun Wedding

Shotgun weddings are meant to bring a blend of simplicity, magic and excitement to your big day. For couples wondering what to wear, the answer is simple: whatever you want! Your wedding should reflect who you are, and you should ultimately choose what makes you feel most comfortable. With that in mind, here are a few tips we recommend when planning your attire around Banff’s Rocky Mountain climate: 

Mix Comfort & Style: While you can (and should!) let your personal style shine through, it’s important to remember that Alberta’s Rocky Mountains have rugged terrain that may be tricky to navigate in heels or certain types of attire. While most popular outdoor spots are relatively accessible, dressing to the landscape with block heels or dress shoes with decent tread or boots (for winter). For your gown or suit, choose something you feel amazing in but that also suits the natural beauty of the landscape.

Finally, you’ll also want to remember that Mother Nature plays a big role in the beauty of the mountains, but she’s also a tad on the unpredictable side where weather is concerned. We recommend couples bring a few different layers to ensure they stay as comfortable as possible; shawls, cardigans and a lightweight jacket are big day essentials! 

Your Fairytale Shotgun Wedding Awaits in Banff

There’s something absolutely magical about saying “I do” in Banff, surrounded by towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and the pure joy of a love shared. For those who can’t wait to celebrate their love, we’re here to bring your dream ceremony to life in the wonder of the Rockies. View our Simply Shotgun package here!

Looking for an elopement with a further out ceremony date? Check out our additional packages in Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise here. 

More questions? View our FAQs!