Contact Geoff:
P: 403 826 9927   /

Blog

CONTACT

Wall art + albums

EXPERIENCE

Services

Portfolio

About

Home

Editorial wedding and elopement photographer for the stylish and romantic. Based in Calgary, travelling worldwide with the goal of creating beautiful and meaningful photographs for you to love.

E: info@geoffwilkings.com

THE VENUE GUIDE

An Intimate, Scenic, And Elegant Setting Personalized For An Unforgettable Celebration

The Ridge at Okotoks Weddings

Weddings at The Ridge at Okotoks

Weddings at The Ridge at Okotoks offer a blend of natural beauty and refined elegance, making it a standout venue in our venue guide in Calgary. With options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, including a solarium and beautifully landscaped garden spaces, couples can tailor their celebration to their style and preferences. For those exploring scenic mountain options, our mountain wedding venue guide offers additional locations surrounded by Alberta’s natural beauty. Known for its attention to detail and personalized service, The Ridge provides a seamless and memorable wedding experience, leaving couples and guests with unforgettable memories. Continue reading to discover how each space at The Ridge close to Calgary can create the perfect setting for your special day.

Venue Type, Ceremony & Reception Options, and Capacity

Venue Type

The Ridge offers both indoor and outdoor settings, giving couples the flexibility to host their ceremony and reception in an atmosphere that suits their vision, whether it’s a cozy indoor celebration or an open-air garden event.

Indoor & Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Locations

For ceremonies, The Ridge features an elegant solarium with large windows that provide ample natural light and views of the surrounding landscape, creating a serene and beautiful backdrop for vows. Alternatively, couples can opt for the outdoor garden area, which offers a picturesque setting amidst lush greenery and panoramic views.

Indoor & Outdoor Wedding Reception Areas

The main entertaining area within the house offers a warm and inviting space for indoor receptions, combining rustic charm with modern amenities. For those who prefer an outdoor reception, the garden area can accommodate a tented setup, allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings and open-air experience.

Seated Capacity for Indoor and Outdoor Receptions

Indoor spaces can comfortably accommodate up to 50 seated guests, while the outdoor garden area can host larger gatherings, with capacity varying based on the specific setup and tenting options.

Privacy

The Ridge hosts only one wedding at a time, ensuring that couples have exclusive access to the property for a private and intimate celebration.

A bride in a long white gown with a trailing veil and a groom in a black suit holding hands by a serene mountain lake.

LeeAnne & Brady’s Elegant Canadian Mountain Wedding

A bride and groom excitedly leaving the church while guests throw flower petals to celebrate their marriage

Lexie & Jimmy’s Canadian Rockies Wedding Celebration

Access

Vendor access is typically available in the morning on the day of the wedding. Specific access times can be coordinated with the venue’s management to align with your event schedule.

Furniture

The Ridge provides essential furniture, including tables and chairs, as part of the rental package. Additional furnishings or specialty items can be arranged through external vendors if desired.

Decorations

The Ridge welcomes personalized decor, though certain restrictions may apply to preserve the venue’s aesthetic. It’s advisable to confirm any specific decor plans with the events team in advance.

Catering

The Ridge partners with renowned chef Xavier Lacaze to offer in-house catering, allowing couples to design custom menus that reflect their tastes and dietary preferences.

Plated or Buffet Dinner Service

Both plated and buffet-style dinner services are available, allowing couples the flexibility to choose the dining experience that best matches their vision for the celebration.

Food and Drink Minimums

Minimum spend requirements for food and beverages may apply, depending on the size and nature of the event. These details can be discussed with the events team during the planning process.

Alcohol Policy

The Ridge holds a liquor license and provides a selection of alcoholic beverages. Outside alcohol is not permitted, but the events team can work with couples to curate a bar menu that aligns with their preferences.

Vendor Restrictions

While The Ridge has a list of preferred vendors familiar with the venue, couples are welcome to bring in their own vendors, subject to approval from the events team.

Sound and Music

The venue does not impose strict sound restrictions, but it is important to be mindful of the surrounding community. Both live bands and DJs are welcome, and the venue can accommodate various entertainment setups.

Lighting

Ambient lighting is provided indoors and outdoors, with additional lighting available upon request to enhance the setting, especially for evening events.

Electricity and Power

Ample power outlets are available throughout the property to support lighting, sound equipment, and other electrical needs.

Setup and Cleanup

Setup and cleanup services are typically included in the rental package, allowing couples and guests to enjoy the celebration without logistical concerns.

Parking

On-site parking is available for guests, with ample space to accommodate a large number of vehicles. There is no additional fee for parking.

Transportation

The venue is easily accessible by car, and transportation services can be arranged for guests traveling from Calgary or other nearby areas.

A person taking photos at sunrise on a mountain overlooking a scenic valley and rugged peaks.

What Is The Point Of An Engagement Shoot & Do You Need One?

Person in a red jacket jumping jubilantly in snow with mountain scenery in the background, viewed between two blurred snow-covered legs in the foreground.

Best Tips For Candid Unposed and Posed Wedding Photographs

A bride and groom with their joyful wedding party, comprising bridesmaids and groomsmen, standing on a forest path, all dressed in formal wedding attire, sharing a laugh together.

Do I Need A Second Wedding Photographer At My Wedding?

A bride in a white robe joyfully raising a champagne bottle surrounded by bridesmaids in blue dresses, laughing and celebrating in an elegantly furnished room.

A Brides Getting Ready Guide & Tips For A Brides Wedding Day

Accessibility

The Ridge is committed to providing accessible facilities for all guests, with wheelchair-accessible entrances and accommodations.

Coat Check/Storage

A designated coat check area is available for guests to store coats and personal items securely during the celebration.

Guest Accommodations

The Ridge offers B&B-style accommodations on-site, providing convenience for the wedding party and select guests. Additional lodging options are available nearby in Okotoks for other guests.

Bridal Suite

A dedicated bridal suite is available for hair and makeup preparations, offering a private and comfortable space for the bride and her party to prepare before the ceremony.

Groom’s Room

A separate area is provided for the groom getting ready, ensuring that he and the groomsmen have a comfortable and private space to prepare.

Photography

With its scenic landscapes, rustic charm, and elegant architecture, The Ridge provides numerous photo opportunities. Couples are encouraged to explore the grounds for stunning backdrops. To see examples of gallery celebrations, view Geoff’s wedding photography portfolio.

Rehearsal

The Ridge accommodates pre-wedding rehearsals, which are typically scheduled the day before the wedding. It’s advisable to arrange rehearsal times with the events team well in advance.

Noise Restrictions

While there are no strict noise restrictions, it’s recommended to conclude outdoor music by a reasonable hour out of respect for the surrounding community.

Fireworks/Sparklers

Due to safety regulations, fireworks are not permitted. However, sparklers may be allowed with prior approval from the venue.

Pet Policy

With prior approval, pets may be permitted on the property, allowing couples to include their furry friends in the celebration.

AV Capabilities

Audio/visual equipment is available for rental if needed. The events team can help arrange any AV requirements in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Location

The Ridge is located at 306 Avenue W, Okotoks, AB, providing a scenic and accessible destination for weddings just outside Calgary.

Proximity to Airport

The venue is approximately 40 minutes from Calgary International Airport, offering convenient access for guests travelling from out of town.

Wi-Fi

Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout The Ridge, keeping you and your guests connected during the event.

Bar Service

The venue offers various bar service options, including open and cash bars, with customizable drink selections to match the wedding style.

Dance Floor

A dance floor can be arranged in the main entertaining areas, providing a designated space for dancing during the reception.

Extensions

Event extensions are available for an additional fee, depending on availability and venue policies. Contact the events team to discuss specific options.

Renovations

The Ridge is well-maintained, ensuring that the venue retains its fresh and inviting atmosphere. Contact the events team regarding any planned updates before your wedding date.

Sustainability

The Ridge prioritizes sustainable practices, including eco-friendly operations and support for local vendors, to reduce its environmental impact.

Cost

The Ridge offers customizable wedding packages based on the event’s size and specific requirements. Rental fees generally cover the selected spaces, tables, chairs, and standard setup. Contact the events team for detailed pricing information.

Payment Plan

Flexible payment plans are available, with an initial deposit to secure the date, followed by scheduled payments leading up to the wedding.

Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy includes a non-refundable deposit, with terms based on the timing of cancellation. Confirm all details with the events team.

BEHIND THE LENS

Hi, I'm  Geoff.

With the eye of an editorial photographer, I craft timeless images that capture both emotion and beauty. Since 2005, I’ve specialized in luxury weddings, offering personalized service to ensure my clients fully enjoy their day.

Learn More

A bride in a long white gown with a trailing veil and a groom in a black suit holding hands by a serene mountain lake.

 01

LeeAnne and Brady, esteemed Calgary master builders, hosted a truly unforgettable celebration at the stunning Malcolm Hotel in Canmore. Surrounded by the breathtaking Rockies and over 200 of their closest friends and family, their wedding was a perfect blend of sophistication and heartfelt connection. With a focus on family and meaningful moments, they created an […]

A couple holding hands on a rocky overlook with a hazy mountain sunset in the background.

02

Hanna and Connor’s engagement session unfolded in the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park. As a Calgary based wedding photographer specializing in the Rockies, I’m always inspired by the connection between my couples and the stunning landscapes we explore together. For Hanna and Connor, they envisioned a day that felt natural and reflective of their […]

A bride and groom excitedly leaving the church while guests throw flower petals to celebrate their marriage

03

Lexie and Jimmy’s wedding was a celebration of elegance, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. Their journey began with a warm and stylish rehearsal dinner in Banff at the Bluebird restaurant, where 60 of their closest friends and family gathered to kick off the festivities. Among their guests were three professional hockey […]

A bride in a long white gown with a trailing veil and a groom in a black suit holding hands by a serene mountain lake.

featured

LeeAnne and Brady, esteemed Calgary master builders, hosted a truly unforgettable celebration at the stunning Malcolm Hotel in Canmore. Surrounded by the breathtaking Rockies and over 200 of their closest friends and family, their wedding was a perfect blend of sophistication and heartfelt connection. With a focus on family and meaningful moments, they created an […]

Geoff was an incredible professional —

with great attention to detail. He’s compassionate, humorous

and makes everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera. His work is stunning, and we were truly impressed and grateful for his presence.
Thank you, Geoff!

kristen & Dyon