Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea

Imagine celebrating surrounded by the life of the sea, with colourful exhibits teeming with marine life all around and guests wandering between conversations and marine creatures.

The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is British Columbia's not-for-profit aquarium and learning centre, located on the waterfront in Sidney on the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ (Saanich) people.

The aquarium welcomes private events, including weddings, and its exhibits create a backdrop that needs little decoration. It can seat up to 50 guests for dinner, or host up to 165 for a reception-style celebration.

The Centre is available to rent on most evenings from 5 pm to 10 pm, and until 11 pm for weddings, giving the evening room to unfold.

A professional events coordinator helps plan and carry out the event, and volunteer interpreters are on site during events.

Couples can work with one of the Centre's suggested caterers or choose their own. The sound system and large format video screens are available, and free underground parking makes arriving easy.

For couples who want a wedding reception that feels truly unlike any other, the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea offers an evening beneath the waves of the Salish Sea.