Calgary Zoo Weddings: The Perfect Setting for Your Special Day

Imagine saying "I do" surrounded by the romance of your wedding day and the unique sounds of wildlife at the Calgary Zoo. As an affordable wedding photographer in Calgary with years of experience capturing beautiful moments, the Calgary Zoo holds a special place in my heart. I've photographed countless couples in its diverse and inspiring spaces, each offering a unique charm. The Calgary Zoo was recognized as the "Best Unique Wedding Venue in Calgary" by Avenue Magazine in 2023, and with over 100 weddings hosted in 2023, it's clear why so many couples choose this extraordinary location. Let's explore the three main wedding venues at the Calgary Zoo and why, as the best wedding photographer in Calgary, I highly recommend them for your Calgary wedding photography. 

The Unique Appeal of Calgary Zoo Wedding Venues

The Calgary Zoo offers a variety of exceptional spaces for weddings of all sizes and styles, with both indoor and outdoor options to ensure a perfect celebration regardless of the weather. One of the biggest draws is the opportunity for truly unique wedding photos. From stunning gardens to exotic animal habitats, the 120-acre property has incredible backdrops. The convenience of hosting your ceremony, reception, and wedding photography all in one location is another significant advantage. Plus, by choosing to get married at the Calgary Zoo, you're also contributing to wildlife conservation efforts. Now, let's take a closer look at my four favourite wedding venues: the ENMAX Conservatory, Grazers Restaurant, the Safari Lodge and Asia Lawn & Tent.

The Enchanting ENMAX Conservatory

The ENMAX Conservatory is a stunning indoor greenhouse space that can accommodate up to 150 guests, making it ideal for couples dreaming of a garden wedding year-round. Filled with natural light and lush greenery, it offers a romantic and vibrant atmosphere, allowing you to feel like you're in an outdoor garden even when indoors. The Nutrien Garden of Life and the Garden Gallery provide particularly distinctive and beautiful settings for unforgettable wedding photos. A spacious pre-function area is also available, perfect for hosting a cocktail hour for your guests. 

As a wedding photographer, the ENMAX Conservatory is a truly captivating location. The abundance of natural light creates soft and beautiful conditions for Calgary wedding photography, and the indoor garden, along with the adjacent outdoor gardens, offers the perfect backdrop for romantic wedding portraits. I've had the pleasure of photographing numerous weddings here, and the butterfly gardens are always a highlight, providing a magical experience for the bride and groom. As one of the best wedding photographers in Calgary, I can confidently say that the ENMAX Conservatory ensures beautiful photos no matter the weather. Many couples have shared positive experiences here, further solidifying its reputation. The availability of a pre-function space adds to the convenience for guests and helps the wedding flow seamlessly. The ENMAX Conservatory frequently features in garden-style highlighting its suitability for garden-themed weddings. 

• Capacity: Up to 150 guests
• Rental fee: $2,400
• Food & Beverage minimum: $3,200 – $6,250
• Vibe: Bright, elegant, and full of life

The Cozy Elegance of Grazers Restaurant

Grazers Restaurant offers a cozy and sophisticated setting for more intimate celebrations, accommodating between 65 and 80 guests. Located right next to the Dorothy Harvie Gardens, it boasts beautiful natural views and features a private outdoor patio. This venue is perfect for couples planning a smaller wedding, with an intimate yet modern interior that creates a special ambiance. Excitingly, a new outdoor ceremony location is scheduled to open in June 2024. 

From a wedding photographer's perspective, Grazers Restaurant is an ideal spot for capturing warm and intimate Calgary wedding photography. The cozy atmosphere allows for genuine emotions to shine through in photos, and the private patio, especially with the potential backdrop of alpacas , offers a unique touch. Smaller weddings can often be more budget-friendly, making this a great option for couples looking for an affordable wedding photographer Calgary. I cherish the memories of the warm and personal wedding shoots I've done at Grazers Restaurant. The "private licensed patio" is a significant draw for couples wanting to incorporate an outdoor element into their smaller wedding. Describing Grazers Restaurant as "contemporary and chic" accurately reflects its stylish yet inviting atmosphere, appealing to couples seeking a refined yet comfortable setting. One review even noted that Grazers Restaurant was the "best venue for a small and intimate wedding," praising the food and staff service. 

• Capacity: Up to 80 guests
• Rental fee: $1,250
• Vibe: Casual elegance with garden views

The Unique Experience of the Safari Lodge

The Safari Lodge is the largest of the wedding venues, capable of hosting between 280 and 350 guests, making it the ultimate choice for couples seeking a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Its most distinctive feature is a north-facing patio that overlooks the Savannah Yard, home to giraffes, zebras, and ostriches. Guests can enjoy the wedding celebration with the feeling of being on an African safari, and the veranda offers incredible views of the animals. Inside, a dance floor is available, ensuring a lively and fun reception. 

As a wedding photographer, the Safari Lodge provides an opportunity for truly "wildly wonderful" wedding photos. Calgary wedding photography with animals in the background creates unique memories that you won't find anywhere else. The expansive space is perfect for capturing grand reception scenes, and I have the experience to capture the best moments without disturbing the animals. As an affordable wedding photographer in Calgary, I believe the Safari Lodge's unique backdrop offers exceptional value. The "jaw-dropping view of giraffes, zebras, and ostriches" is the Safari Lodge's biggest draw, promising an unforgettable experience for your guests. The large capacity, accommodating up to 350 guests , makes it ideal for larger weddings. The inclusion of a dance floor is also a convenient feature for couples wanting a traditional wedding reception. 

• Capacity: Up to 280 and 350 guests
• Rental fee: $950 – $2,550
• Food & Beverage minimum: $900 – $8,750
• Vibe: Exotic, bold, and adventurous

The Serene Charm of the Asia Lawn & Tent

If you're dreaming of a unique and nature-inspired wedding venue in Calgary, the Asia Lawn & Tent at the Calgary Zoo is a hidden gem worth considering. Perfect for couples who love the outdoors and want a truly memorable setting, this space combines lush greenery, exotic vibes, and the convenience of a central location.

The Asia Lawn offers a beautifully manicured open-air ceremony space, surrounded by vibrant trees and a peaceful atmosphere. Just steps away, the elegant Asia Tent provides a stylish and weather-proof reception area that’s ideal for intimate or mid-sized gatherings.

Whether you're planning a summer garden wedding or a romantic evening under the stars, this venue offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your special day. As a Calgary wedding photographer, I love shooting here — the lighting is dreamy, the scenery is diverse, and your photos will look like they came straight out of a storybook.

• Capacity: Up to 300 guests
• Rental fee: $2,250
• Food & Beverage minimum: $1,500 – $5,500
• Vibe: Open-air elegance with natural charm

Why Choose the Calgary Zoo for Your Wedding?

The Calgary Zoo offers a variety of inspiring and unique spaces, providing the convenience of hosting your ceremony, reception, and photography all in one location. The beautiful and diverse backdrops will make your Calgary wedding photography truly special. With delicious catering options featuring locally sourced ingredients , and experienced, dedicated staff, they are committed to making your wedding day perfect. Hosting your wedding at the Calgary Zoo also supports wildlife conservation efforts. Ample parking and LRT access add to the convenience for your guests, and as a non-profit organization. During your wedding, pathways are closed off and staffed to ensure privacy for you and your guests. The Calgary Zoo offers great value with excellent food, unique venues, and even provides zoo admission for your guests. Additionally, their dedicated wedding coordinators are there to help make the planning process smooth and stress-free.