How To Plan A Banff Helicopter Wedding

Planning a Banff helicopter wedding promises a truly unforgettable experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. From exchanging vows high above the mountains to capturing breathtaking photos in remote alpine locations, this unique wedding adventure offers a blend of excitement and romance. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to plan your dream helicopter wedding in Banff. From choosing the right helicopter company to picking the perfect time of year for your ceremony flight, this blog has it all!

What Is A Helicopter Wedding?

A helicopter wedding is a unique and adventurous alternative to a traditional wedding ceremony. Lovers can be whisked away with one another or with a few close family and friends to exchange vows in a private and romantic location away from the hustle and bustle of cities, towns, and popular tourist locations. In the tranquility of these remote destinations, those eloping create lasting, one-of-a-kind memories in the Canadian Rockies. 

Why Choose Banff for Your Helicopter Wedding?

Situated amidst the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a beautiful location for intimate elopements and weddings. With over 1,000 glaciers, countless turquoise-blue alpine lakes, and lush evergreen forests, Banff is undoubtedly a haven for nature lovers and adventurous souls. Whether you dream of saying “I do” atop a mountain peak or near a quiet, high-alpine lake, Banff is the perfect place to be whisked away by helicopter to a one-of-a-kind outdoor ceremony spot to say your vows. 

What’s The Best Time Of Year For a Banff Helicopter Wedding?

July, August, and September are the best months for a Banff helicopter wedding! Although summertime is peak visitor season in and around Banff, helicopter weddings allow those eloping to escape the crowds and be taken to a private location in the Canadian Rockies. Remember that if you choose to plan a Summer helicopter wedding in Banff, it is wildfire season. Smoke and wind could occur, but lower locations in the Bow Valley can still be visited. If you elope closer to Autumn, colorful Fall foliage paints the Bow Valley and can be seen from the air! In Winter, snow caps the peaks of the Canadian Rockies, making for an equally beautiful flight experience! While severe weather could also be a factor in Winter, you’ll be able to visit lower altitude locations for your Banff helicopter wedding, so long as it’s safe. 

What Steps Can I Take To Plan A Banff Helicopter Wedding?

Step 1: Determine Your Budget

The first step in planning a Banff helicopter wedding is determining how much you will spend on your celebration. Consider everything from the helicopter ride to travel costs, vendors, outfits, and any extras you want. Then, divvy up your budget based on what matters most to you. And don’t forget to save some money for unexpected expenses!

Step 2: Choose a Helicopter Company

When selecting a helicopter tour company, prioritize safety, pilot experience, and package details. Also, ensure the company is available for a flight on your chosen ceremony date. Popular dates can fill up quickly, so make your booking as soon as you decide on a date!

Our favorite helicopter company for Banff elopements is Rockies Heli! Nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery between Mt. Michener and Mt. Stelfox, just near Abraham Lake, Rockies Heli offers breathtaking Summer and Winter experiences. Plan to arrive an hour early for waivers, safety briefings, and heli arrangements. Then enjoy a quick 6-minute flight to your secluded wilderness wedding spot! Once you arrive, you’ll get two hours to exchange vows, take photos, and explore the Canadian Rockies at 9,000 feet. At Rockies Heli, the cost is $499 per person.

Step 3: Decide on a Date and Guest Count

When deciding on a date for your helicopter wedding, one thing to consider is the weather. Do you want to land atop a snowcapped mountain peak in Winter, or would you rather share vows near a shimmering blue lake in Summer? In addition to considering the vision for your wedding, research typical weather conditions for your chosen date and have a flexible plan for inclement weather. Summer is wildfire season so smoke and haze may be possible. Winter weather conditions can make flying to high-altitude locations difficult. Having a backup plan can ensure a smooth elopement day, even if something unexpected occurs.  

If you plan on inviting guests to your helicopter wedding, it’s important to determine how many guests you’d like to attend. As a friendly reminder, helicopter capacity is limited, usually to six people, so you may have to consider hosting a reception with close loved ones instead. 

Step 4: Hire a Wedding Photographer and Videographer

When planning your Banff helicopter wedding, choosing a wedding photographer and videographer with experience in aerial and mountain photography is essential. At The Organic Moment, we specialize in capturing the magic of such unique settings. We offer Banff elopement packages that can include both photography and videography for your helicopter wedding in the Canadian Rockies!

Step 5: Plan Ceremony Details

Hire an officiant who can legally marry you in Alberta. Ensure they are comfortable with the helicopter ride and location. Work with your officiant to create a personalized ceremony script, and consider writing personal vows! Decide if you want to bring a small portable speaker to play music during the ceremony. Last but not least, ensure all necessary paperwork and permits are in order for a legal wedding in Banff.

Step 6: Book Vendors, Invite Guests, Make a Backup Plan, and Book Travel

Besides the helicopter and photography services, book any other vendors needed, such as caterers for a post-ceremony celebration, place an order for florals, and secure an officiant. If you are inviting guests or hosting a reception soon after, send out invitations early, clearly outlining the logistics and any necessary preparations guests need to make. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Be sure to have a backup plan for the ceremony location or date. Last but not least, book your travel to Banff, along with accommodations, including flights, hotels, and any other necessary means of transportation and lodging. 

Step 7: Prepare For Your Trip

Prepare for your helicopter wedding by packing attire suitable for mountain weather, your wedding outfit, and any personal items you need. Ensure you have essential items such as marriage licenses, rings, and vows. A few days before the big day, double-check all bookings and arrangements to ensure everything is in place. If feasible, consider having a quick rehearsal or outlining a detailed plan for the ceremony day to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.

Step 8: Celebrate Your Wedding

As your helicopter wedding unfolds, relax and enjoy the day, confident in the chosen professionals. Afterward, whether you opt for a reception in Banff or a cozy gathering back at home with loved ones, take time to reminisce and share your beautiful wedding photos and videos with those who couldn’t be there. 

How To Make Your Banff Helicopter Wedding Official

You’ll need a marriage license to officially marry in Alberta, the province where Banff National Park is located! You can do this by visiting a registry agent’s office in Alberta. After you’re issued a marriage license, it’s only valid for three months from the issue date and solely recognized in the province in which it’s issued. 

An officiant (legally permitted to do so) must perform the marriage. After the marriage, the officiant must send a completed and signed marriage license to Alberta Vital Statistics. After the officiant registers the marriage, you can request a marriage certificate.

You can learn more about making your marriage official in Alberta here!

Are You Ready To Plan An Epic Banff Helicopter Wedding?

Hi, we’re Liz and Jason, an elopement photographer and videographer duo! We love crafting intentional and meaningful moments while capturing lovers’ raw and authentic connections on the journey to “I Do!” If you’re planning a Banff helicopter elopement, we’d love to help bring your ceremony dreams to life! You can share your love story, vision, and more with Jason and me through our inquiry form. And remember to check out our Banff elopement packages and our travel page! Interested in learning more about planning a helicopter elopement in Banff National Park? Take a look at this Rocky Mountain Helicopter Elopement! We also have an awesome freebie available for download on our website that helps lovers figure out How To Choose Their Dream Elopement Destination!