How to Plan a Helicopter Wedding and Elopement in Banff
Dreaming of an unforgettable wedding experience surrounded by towering peaks, alpine lakes, and breathtaking scenery? A helicopter wedding in Banff offers a one-of-a-kind adventure, blending romance with the thrill of soaring over the Canadian Rockies. Whether you’re envisioning a summer mountaintop ceremony, a cozy winter elopement, or a picturesque autumn backdrop, Banff provides stunning locations year-round.
In this guide, I’ll help you choose the best season, plan logistics, find the right vendors, and prepare for an intimate and stress-free celebration in the sky. From selecting a helicopter company to making sure that you’re dressed for the elements, I’ve got everything covered to make your dream wedding a reality.
But first, hello! I am so happy you are here! Have we met yet? I’m Dila, a local Banff wedding and elopement photographer. If you’d like to learn more about working together (I’d be honored!), head here next!
Choosing the Best Time of the Year to Get Married in Banff
First, let’s talk about the different seasons in the Rockies so you can choose the best time of year to have your helicopter wedding in Banff.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the best season if you’re looking for a more predictable and stable weather forecast. If you’re considering a helicopter wedding, this season offers the most landing options, such as:
- Cliffside views
- Glacier backdrops
- Lake vistas
- Waterfall settings
With warmer temperatures and clear skies, summer provides ideal conditions for a scenic and stress-free ceremony. However, keep in mind that Banff is a popular destination during this time, so booking early is important.
Winter (December – February)
While summer is wonderful, winter in Banff brings snow-capped mountains, a magical winter wonderland, and the opportunity for unique experiences like heli-skiing. If you and your partner love snow sports, you can combine your wedding with activities like:
- Snowshoeing
- Heli-skiing
- Staying at a mountaintop cabin
A winter helicopter elopement is perfect for those seeking a cozy, intimate atmosphere surrounded by breathtaking snowy peaks. It’s also a lot less busy, so you’ll have more freedom to choose your dates and have less stress over booking in advance.
Shoulder Seasons: Spring & Autumn (March-May, September-November)
If you’re undecided between summer or winter, you can also choose to get married in the spring or fall. Shoulder seasons can offer unique scenery, such as golden fall colours or snow-dusted mountain peaks. The best of both worlds! While these seasons offer a variety of landing options, the weather can be unpredictable. To plan your helicopter wedding in Banff during these times, it’s essential to have a backup plan in case of sudden changes in conditions.
Decide on the Number of Guests (Including Dogs!)
When planning a helicopter wedding or elopement in Banff, one of the first things to decide is how many guests—if any—you’d like to bring along. Since helicopters have weight limits and limited seating.
If you’re envisioning an intimate and personal adventure, a just-the-two-of-you elopement is a perfect way to soak in the breathtaking mountain views without distractions. However, if you’d like to share the moment with a few loved ones, most helicopter companies allow for a small group, typically around 4-6 passengers, depending on the aircraft size.
Bringing Your Dog
Yes, it’s possible to include your furry best friend in your helicopter wedding in Banff! Many couples choose to bring their dogs along for the adventure, and some helicopter companies allow well-behaved pets on board. A harness, leash, and possibly some doggy earmuffs can make the experience safer and more enjoyable for them.
Pick Your Dream Location & Helicopter Company
Now that you have a season and number of guests in mind, it’s time to book your helicopter! Some well-known helicopter companies for elopements in Banff include:
Rockies Heli Canada – Offers a variety of adventure options, including hiking and sightseeing.
Alpine Helicopters – Known for their scenic tours and stunning landing spots.
Prepare a Backup Plan for Your Helicopter Wedding in Banff
While a helicopter elopement in Banff is an unforgettable experience, it’s important to remember that flights are weather-dependent. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and having a solid backup plan ensures your wedding day goes smoothly—rain or shine.
Alternative Backup Options
If your helicopter flight gets postponed or canceled, consider these beautiful alternative locations:
Scenic Ground Locations: Many breathtaking areas in Banff are easily accessible without a helicopter. Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Tunnel Mountain are stunning and perfect for elopements. Check out our blog for the some of Banff’s best locations to elope here.
Helicopter Rescheduling: Most helicopter companies will offer a reschedule for a later time or the next day if the weather clears up. Ask before you book!
Mountain Lodge or Cabin Ceremony: If flights are grounded, you can still have a cozy mountain-top ceremony at a nearby lodge or cabin.
Indoor Venue Backup: Some couples opt for a luxury cabin, boutique hotel, or rustic lodge as a last-resort indoor ceremony option.
How to Prepare for Last-Minute Changes
Stay flexible and embrace the adventure of your elopement by keeping an open mind about shifting timelines or alternative locations. Communicate with your photographer, videographer, and officiant so they’re prepared for any weather-related changes. If possible, extend your stay in Banff by a few extra days to improve your chances of clear skies. Lastly, dress appropriately for mountain conditions with warm layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear to ensure comfort and adaptability.
Choose the Type of Helicopter Adventure
While we’re talking about it, planning your helicopter wedding/elopement in Banff can be more than just a ceremony—it can be a full adventure! Here are some options to consider:
- Heli-Snowshoeing: A great way to explore the winter landscape with ease.
- Helicopter Sightseeing: Take a breathtaking aerial tour before landing at your ceremony site.
- Helicopter Hiking: Arrive at a remote trailhead for a post-wedding hike with stunning views.
- Helicopter Camping: Spend a romantic night under the stars in the backcountry.
- Heli-Skiing: Perfect for winter lovers who want to combine their elopement with a thrilling downhill run.
Find Vendors for Your Helicopter Wedding in Banff (Photography + Videography)
Once you’ve chosen your adventure, location, and season, the next step in planning your helicopter wedding in Banff is finding the right vendors to capture and support your day. Since elopements are intimate and often take place in remote locations, selecting experienced professionals who specialize in adventure weddings is key.
1. Hire a Photographer & Videographer Who Specializes in Adventure Elopements
Since your wedding will take place in breathtaking but unpredictable mountain terrain, hiring an experienced and local photographer and videographer who understands lighting, weather, and helicopter logistics is crucial. They should be comfortable shooting in various outdoor conditions and capturing the true essence of your adventure. But good news! You’ve already found me! I also help with logistics, and timeline planning to ensure everything runs smoothly.
2. Choose an Experienced Officiant
Many helicopter elopements in Banff are symbolic, with legal paperwork completed before or after the trip. However, if you want a legally recognized ceremony, you’ll need an Alberta-licensed officiant who is comfortable travelling to remote locations.
3. Consider a Hair & Makeup Artist Who Offers On-Site Services
Since helicopter weddings are often in high-altitude, windy, or cold environments, hiring a hair and makeup artist who specializes in long-lasting, weather-proof looks is a great idea.
4. Work With a Wedding Planner (Optional but Helpful!)
If you want a more hands-off approach, considering hiring a wedding planning who specializes in adventure weddings. They can help you choose and book all of your vendors and helicopter tour for you. Including helping your with permits that are required for your wedding day.
Choose Your Attire for a Helicopter Wedding in Banff
Your outfit for a helicopter wedding should balance style and practicality. Mountain locations require adventure-friendly attire that reflects your vision while ensuring comfort.
Thing to consider when choosing a dress:
- Lightweight fabrics like chiffon or lace work well in the wind.
- Layer with a shawl, fur wrap, or thermal leggings for warmth.
- Avoid trains with heavy beading; they’re tough in windy conditions.
- Opt for hiking boots or insulated winter footwear.
Things to consider when choose a suit:
- Layered suits, like a wool blazer with warm under layers, are ideal.
- Choose breathable, non-restrictive fabrics.
- Wear dress boots or sturdy hiking boots suitable for uneven terrain.
Set Your Budget for a Helicopter Wedding in Banff
Planning a helicopter wedding in Banff is a unique and unforgettable experience, but it’s essential to establish a budget that aligns with your vision. Since helicopter elopements involve adventure logistics, costs can vary depending on the location, season, and additional services you choose. Below is a breakdown of key expenses to consider.
1. Helicopter Costs
2. Photography & Videography
3. Wedding Attire & Accessories
4. Officiant & Legal Fees
5. Additional Vendors & Extras
- Hair & Makeup
- Bouquet & Florals
- Accommodation
- Post-Elopement Celebration Budget
6. Travel & Backup Plan Costs
Ways to Save on Your Helicopter Wedding/Elopement in Banff
The great thing about unconventional weddings, is that there are ways to save money without sacrificing what you want. Here are just a few ideas to save more:
- Opt for having a small wedding or elopement
- Have a photography and videography duo services who will help you with logistics.
- Choose a symbolic ceremony.
- Limit additional landings.
FAQ: How to Plan a Helicopter Wedding/Elopement in Banff
- Do I need a permit? Yes, some landing spots require permits, especially in national or provincial parks. Helicopter companies often handle this, but confirm in advance.
- When should I book? Book 6-12 months ahead, especially for summer or fall, but last minute weddings or elopements can also be accommodated.
- What if the weather is bad? Flights depend on weather. Have a backup ground location and check rescheduling and refund policies.
- Can we bring guests? Helicopters seat 2-6 people, including the couple, officiant, photographer and videographer. Larger groups may need extra flights.
- Can my dog come? Some companies allow dogs. Confirm policies and ensure your dog is comfortable with flying.
- What should I wear? Wear layers, sturdy footwear, and if you can, heavy gowns. Accessories like gloves and scarves are great for winter.
- How long does it last? Most helicopter weddings take 2-4 hours. Full-day options with hiking or camping are available.
- Best time of year?
- Summer (June-September): Stable weather, more landing spots.
- Winter (November-March): Snowy peaks, heli-skiing.
- Spring/Fall: Unique scenery but unpredictable weather.
- What should we bring? Personal vows, rings, and optional picnic or faux-champagne, Marriage license, warm layers & hiking boots, essentials (sunglasses, sunscreen).
Planning a helicopter wedding/elopement in Banff is a truly unforgettable adventure, combining romance, breathtaking landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Your helicopter wedding will be a celebration to remember, I would love the opportunity to bring this vision to life. Please reach out here!
