Vancouver to run 'micro-wedding' pilot project this summer
Space near City Hall will allow weddings celebrations with up to 10 people
Couples eager to tie the knot in Vancouver this summer can rent a venue near city hall for less than $100 — but they'll only be allowed to bring a handful of guests.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic that has prompted provincewide bans on large gatherings since mid-March, the City of Vancouver is running a "micro-wedding" pilot project.
The city is offering up the Helena Gutteridge Plaza outdoor venue near city hall for wedding ceremonies with up to ten people, including the bride and groom.
The space opens up June 19 and there are eight half-hour time slots available for each date. Bookings cost $85. The venue has been reserved on July 27 for LGBTQ couples, which will lead into Pride Week in Vancouver.
Prior to the pandemic, the city had planned a pilot project to host weddings at city hall during the spring and summer, which would have included ceremonies in council chambers. That program is delayed indefinitely.
It's still unclear when provincial health officials will give the stamp of approval for wedding ceremonies with large crowds.
Events with large gatherings — a list that includes concerts, live sports and conventions — are at the tail end of B.C.'s phased reopening and will depend on a successful vaccine, treatment, or herd immunity. Night clubs, casinos and bars also fall under that category.