As a wedding videographer, I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively and work at a variety of venues, including Tigh-Na-Mara Resort. I’m happy to share my personal insights about this venue - what I absolutely love and the aspects that could present challenges. My goal is to provide you with an honest perspective to help you make the best decision for your special day. Let’s dive into all the details.
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort, located in the beautiful Parksville area of Vancouver Island, is a picture-perfect destination for couples dreaming of an unforgettable wedding or elopement. With stunning natural beauty, a peaceful atmosphere, and a variety of customizable packages, Tigh-Na-Mara offers a unique and romantic venue for couples seeking to tie the knot in paradise. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a large celebration, Tigh-Na-Mara can cater to every need, ensuring your special day is nothing short of magical.
Why Tigh-Na-Mara Resort is the Perfect Choice for Your Wedding
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort is renowned for its serene atmosphere, natural beauty, and exceptional service, making it one of the top wedding venues.
Here’s why it should be at the top of your list for your wedding or elopement:
1. Stunning Location and Breathtaking Views
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort is surrounded by lush forests and the stunning waters of Vancouver Island, providing a picturesque backdrop for your wedding day. Imagine exchanging vows on the beach with the ocean as your backdrop, or in a lush garden with vibrant flowers surrounding you. Whether you choose a beach, garden, or indoor venue, Tigh-Na-Mara offers some of the most stunning natural settings to complement your ceremony and celebration.
2. Perfect for Both Intimate and Large Weddings
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort is versatile, catering to both intimate elopements and large weddings. The venue can accommodate everything from a small ceremony with just a few guests to a grand celebration with 100+ attendees. Whether you prefer a peaceful, secluded ceremony or a lively reception with all your friends and family, Tigh-Na-Mara offers a variety of spaces and settings to match your vision.
3. Beachfront Ceremonies
The beachfront at Tigh-Na-Mara is one of the most stunning spots for an elopement on Vancouver Island. With the ocean as your backdrop and the sound of gentle waves, it’s the perfect place for an intimate and personal ceremony. Whether you choose to walk barefoot on the sand or stand beneath a floral arch, Tigh-Na-Mara’s beach provides a stunning and tranquil location for your vows.
4. Accommodation and Relaxation
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort offers a variety of accommodations that ensure you and your guests can enjoy a truly relaxing and memorable stay during your wedding celebration. Whether you’re booking a romantic getaway for two or providing accommodations for your entire guest list, the resort provides a range of options to suit every need, all while maintaining an atmosphere of tranquility and luxury.
Private Cabins and Suites
Tigh-Na-Mara is known for its private cabins and cozy suites, which offer a perfect blend of comfort and privacy. Couples can stay in spacious, ocean-view cabins that provide a peaceful retreat after the big day. These cabins are well-appointed with modern amenities, including private hot tubs, fully equipped kitchens, and cozy living spaces perfect for unwinding after the excitement of the ceremony and reception. The peaceful, secluded environment allows you to relax in total privacy, with beautiful views of the surrounding nature right outside your door.
The resort’s suites are perfect for those seeking a bit more luxury. With plush beds, large windows offering stunning views, and elegant décor, these rooms offer a sense of sophistication and comfort. For those looking for a romantic experience, the suites with ocean views or private balconies provide the ideal setting to enjoy a peaceful evening with a glass of champagne or a cup of tea as the sun sets over the ocean.
Exclusive Honeymoon Suites
For newlyweds, Tigh-Na-Mara offers specially designed honeymoon suites that provide the ultimate relaxation experience. The suites are thoughtfully decorated to create an intimate, romantic atmosphere, and many feature private balconies or patios where you can enjoy breakfast overlooking the lush gardens or the sparkling ocean. After your wedding day, you’ll be able to escape to a secluded haven, where you can enjoy each other’s company in comfort and luxury. Some honeymoon suites also come with access to private hot tubs, adding a touch of indulgence to your stay.
Group Accommodations for Guests
Tigh-Na-Mara also offers ample accommodation for your wedding guests, ensuring that everyone has a comfortable place to stay. From larger cabins that can house families and groups of friends to smaller rooms for individuals or couples, the resort offers flexibility in booking. The resort’s accommodations offer easy access to the wedding venues, so your guests can simply step outside their rooms and arrive at the ceremony or reception without any hassle.
For larger groups, Tigh-Na-Mara can arrange block bookings, ensuring that your guests enjoy discounted rates and the convenience of staying in the same picturesque location. For those seeking relaxation before or after the celebration, the resort also features a luxurious spa with a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments, to help everyone feel pampered and rejuvenated.
On-Site Dining and Relaxation
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort offers on-site dining options that are perfect for those who want to enjoy delicious meals with minimal effort. The resort’s restaurants and bars serve up fresh, locally sourced dishes in a relaxed and cozy setting. For couples, a private dinner on the beach or in one of the resort’s intimate dining areas can be arranged, creating a truly romantic dining experience. After the wedding festivities, Tigh-Na-Mara’s on-site amenities provide a tranquil environment for relaxation, ensuring that the newlyweds and their guests have everything they need to unwind and enjoy their stay.
Whether you want to enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, take a dip in the resort’s heated outdoor pool, or simply relax on your cabin’s private deck with a glass of wine, Tigh-Na-Mara’s accommodation options provide the perfect combination of comfort, luxury, and relaxation.
Photography and Videography at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort
As a wedding videographer, I know how important it is to capture the essence of your day with stunning visuals. Tigh-Na-Mara’s breathtaking landscapes and romantic ambiance provide the perfect setting for memorable wedding photos and videos. From the beach to the garden to the cozy indoor spaces, every corner of this resort offers unique opportunities for beautiful shots.
I work closely with couples to ensure that their wedding video captures every significant moment – from the exchange of vows to the joyous celebration at the reception. The natural beauty of Tigh-Na-Mara makes it easy to create a cinematic masterpiece that reflects the love and joy of your special day.
Wedding Packages at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort: Perfect for Every Couple
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort offers several wedding packages designed to suit both small, intimate weddings and large celebrations. These packages provide all the essentials, from ceremony to reception, ensuring you have everything you need for your special day. Here’s a detailed look at the different wedding packages available at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort.
Small Weddings and Elopement Packages
For couples seeking an intimate wedding or elopement, Tigh-Na-Mara Resort offers several packages designed to make your day special, without the pressure of a large guest list.
Elopement Package
Tigh-Na-Mara’s Elopement Package is ideal for couples who want a simple, romantic ceremony with just the two of you. The package typically includes:
A Private Ceremony: Exchange your vows in an intimate setting, either on the beach, in the garden, or in one of the resort’s indoor venues.
Bouquet and Boutonniere: A stunning bouquet for the bride and a boutonniere for the groom, featuring fresh seasonal flowers.
Officiant Services: Tigh-Na-Mara arranges for a professional officiant to lead your ceremony, ensuring a meaningful and personal experience.
Accommodation: Enjoy a romantic stay in one of Tigh-Na-Mara’s private cabins or suites, providing a peaceful retreat after your ceremony.
Champagne Toast: Celebrate your new life together with a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine, served in your suite or at a private reception.
This package is perfect for couples who want to keep things simple, focusing on each other and the intimate moments of their special day.
Intimate Wedding Package (Up to 20 Guests)
For couples looking to include a few close friends and family, the Intimate Wedding Package offers a slightly larger celebration while still keeping the atmosphere intimate. This package typically includes:
Choice of Ceremony Venue: Say your vows on the beach, in the garden, or in a cozy indoor space, depending on your preferences.
Floral Arrangements: Elegant floral décor, including a bouquet for the bride, boutonniere for the groom, and centerpieces for the reception.
Reception for Up to 20 Guests: A small, elegant reception featuring a plated dinner or buffet-style meal. Tigh-Na-Mara’s culinary team can work with you to craft a menu that reflects your tastes.
Professional Coordination: A dedicated wedding coordinator will help you plan your ceremony and reception, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Accommodation: The package includes a romantic stay for the couple, with the option to book additional rooms for your guests.
This package is ideal for couples looking to host a small wedding or elopement with close family and friends, all while enjoying the beauty of Tigh-Na-Mara’s natural surroundings.
Large Wedding Packages (Up to 100 Guests)
For couples planning a larger wedding celebration, Tigh-Na-Mara offers the Classic Wedding Package, which includes everything you need to host a beautiful event with up to 100 guests.
Classic Wedding Package (Up to 100 Guests)
This package is perfect for couples who want to celebrate with a larger group of friends and family. The Classic Wedding Package includes:
Choice of Ceremony Venue: You can choose from a beach, garden, or indoor venue, each offering a stunning backdrop for your ceremony.
Reception Hall: A spacious reception venue that can accommodate up to 100 guests, with elegant décor and a beautiful view.
Full Catering Services: Choose between a plated dinner or buffet-style meal. Ti-Na-Mara offers a wide variety of menu options, including seasonal and local ingredients, to create a customized dining experience.
Wedding Coordination: A professional wedding coordinator will work with you to plan the details of your ceremony, reception, and timeline, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Floral Arrangements: Beautiful floral designs for your ceremony and reception, including a bouquet, boutonniere, and centerpieces for the tables.
Entertainment: Tigh-Na-Mara can arrange for a live band or DJ to provide entertainment throughout your reception.
This package is ideal for couples who want to share their special day with a larger group while still enjoying the intimacy and charm of Tigh-Na-Mara’s stunning venues.
Exclusive Wedding Package (Over 100 Guests)
For grand celebrations with over 100 guests, Tigh-Na-Mara offers the Exclusive Wedding Package. This package provides a completely customizable experience, with every detail tailored to meet your vision.
Exclusive Wedding Package (100+ Guests)
This premium package includes:
Exclusive Use of Venue: The resort will reserve a private reception venue just for your wedding, allowing you to customize the space to your liking with luxurious décor and ample seating for all your guests.
Gourmet Catering: Extensive menu options, from plated meals to elaborate buffets, created with local, seasonal ingredients.
Full Wedding Coordination: A team of wedding professionals will work with you to design a flawless wedding day, from arranging transportation to choosing entertainment.
Extended Guest Accommodation: Tigh-Na-Mara offers accommodations for your guests, ensuring everyone can relax and enjoy the resort before and after the celebration.
This package is perfect for couples hosting a grand celebration, offering the luxury and exclusivity that will make your wedding day truly special.
What to Expect on Your Wedding Day at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort
Your wedding day at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort is sure to be a seamless, beautiful, and unforgettable experience. From the moment you arrive to the moment you say your goodbyes, the resort’s expert staff will ensure that every detail is taken care of so that you can fully immerse yourself in the joy and excitement of your special day. Here’s what you can expect when you choose Tigh-Na-Mara for your wedding:
Arrival and Preparation
Upon arriving at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort on your wedding day, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome from the resort’s professional wedding team. The team will ensure that all your preparations are handled with care, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the moments leading up to your ceremony.
Getting Ready in Your Private Cabin or Suite: You and your bridal party can begin your day by getting ready in the resort’s private cabins or suites, where you’ll have plenty of space and privacy to prepare for your big moment. The suites are equipped with large mirrors, elegant furnishings, and comfortable seating, providing the perfect atmosphere for hair, makeup, and pre-ceremony photos. For grooms and their parties, Tigh-Na-Mara also offers accommodations that provide the ideal space to prepare and relax.
Hair and Makeup Services: Tigh-Na-Mara offers the option to arrange professional hair and makeup services for the bride and bridal party, ensuring that everyone looks their best for the big day. Whether you prefer a natural, beachy look or something more glamorous, the resort’s stylists can accommodate your preferences. For the groom, there are also local barbers and stylists who can come to the resort to ensure a polished and fresh look for the groom and his groomsmen.
Personalized Touches: The Tigh-Na-Mara team will work with you in advance to ensure your wedding day reflects your personal style and preferences. Whether you’ve chosen a bohemian beach ceremony, a formal garden celebration, or a cozy indoor gathering, the resort will ensure the decor and atmosphere match your vision. Personalized touches such as welcome gifts for guests, custom floral arrangements, and ceremony signage can be arranged ahead of time.
The Ceremony
Your ceremony will be as unique as you and your partner. Tigh-Na-Mara offers several ceremony sites, from the serene beaches to the lush gardens or intimate forest spots. Regardless of your choice, you can expect a relaxed and beautiful atmosphere, where everything is designed to create lasting memories.
Seamless Setup: On the day of your wedding, the resort’s experienced team will handle all the setup for your ceremony and reception, ensuring everything is perfectly arranged. Chairs, floral arrangements, and any other décor elements will be placed in their designated spots, leaving you with nothing to worry about except enjoying the moment.
A Customized Ceremony: Tigh-Na-Mara’s wedding coordinator will work closely with you to plan every detail of your ceremony. Whether you opt for a traditional exchange of vows, a spiritual or non-denominational ceremony, or something entirely personalized, you’ll have the opportunity to include meaningful traditions and readings. The resort’s officiants are experienced and will guide you through the ceremony, ensuring it’s both emotional and unforgettable.
Stunning Backdrops: Depending on your chosen location, you’ll exchange your vows with a breathtaking backdrop of the ocean, garden, or forest. If you're getting married on the beach, the rhythmic sounds of the ocean waves will accompany your vows, while a garden ceremony will immerse you in a vibrant sea of flowers and greenery.
Music and Audio Setup: Tigh-Na-Mara provides audio and sound equipment, ensuring that your ceremony is accompanied by your selected music or even live musicians, whether it’s soft acoustic guitar on the beach or a string quartet in the garden. The team will take care of all technical aspects, ensuring your ceremony goes off without a hitch.
Post-Ceremony Celebration
Once you’ve said “I do,” it’s time to celebrate! The resort offers a variety of post-ceremony activities and a fantastic reception space to keep the party going.
Cocktail Hour: While you and your partner take some time for photos, your guests can enjoy a cocktail hour in one of Tigh-Na-Mara’s scenic areas, such as the beach or a garden patio. This gives your guests the chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy drinks and hors d'oeuvres while they await the start of the reception. The resort offers a variety of catering options, including signature cocktails, passed appetizers, and locally sourced drinks.
Photography and Videography: Tigh-Na-Mara’s stunning landscape provides countless opportunities for beautiful wedding photos and videos. As your wedding videographer I will capture every moment, from the candid interactions with your loved ones to intimate shots of you and your partner in front of the stunning vistas. I will work closely with you to ensure that every special moment, from the first look to the first dance, is documented beautifully.
The Reception
Tigh-Na-Mara’s reception spaces are versatile and can be customized to reflect your wedding style. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration with all your loved ones, the resort offers stunning indoor and outdoor spaces to host your reception.
Reception Venues: If you’ve opted for a beach or garden ceremony, the reception could be held in an oceanview hall or on the resort’s expansive patio, complete with twinkling fairy lights or elegant centerpieces. The resort offers a range of venues to suit your wedding size and style, from cozy, intimate indoor rooms to large open-air terraces.
Catering and Dining: Tigh-Na-Mara’s culinary team provides excellent catering options, from plated dinners to buffet-style meals, depending on your preference. They specialize in locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, creating a fresh and delicious dining experience for your guests. Whether you’re hosting a gourmet dinner, a casual BBQ, or a themed feast, the resort can accommodate your tastes. There’s also room for custom touches, like late-night snacks or a signature dessert bar.
Entertainment and Dancing: After dinner, the fun continues with dancing, speeches, and entertainment. Tigh-Na-Mara works with top-notch DJs and live bands, providing you with options for music that fits the mood of your reception. Whether you want a lively dance floor or a more laid-back vibe, the resort’s event coordinators will work with you to set the perfect tone. For a more relaxed experience, you could even opt for lawn games or a bonfire on the beach under the stars.
Toast and Cake Cutting: As the night progresses, you and your partner will cut the cake, share your first dance, and enjoy the warm congratulations of your friends and family. Tigh-Na-Mara offers a range of wedding cake options, from elegant traditional cakes to fun, non-traditional sweets, ensuring every aspect of your wedding is just right.
End of the Evening
At the end of your wedding day, Tigh-Na-Mara ensures that you and your guests have a smooth and relaxed transition to the evening. If you’ve opted for group accommodations, your guests can head to their cabins or suites for a restful night’s sleep. As the newlyweds, you’ll be able to retire to your private honeymoon suite, where you can unwind in peace after your beautiful day. You may even opt for a late-night spa treatment to pamper yourselves before your first day as a married couple.
The resort’s exceptional service continues even after the wedding, with the staff ensuring your stay is as relaxing and enjoyable as possible.
Disadvantages of having a wedding at Tigh-Na-Mara Resort
While Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville is a stunning wedding destination with numerous advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider when planning your wedding or event there. It's important to weigh these factors against your vision and priorities for the big day:
1.Low Tide During the Ceremony
If you’re envisioning a beach ceremony, it’s worth noting that low tide might coincide with your wedding time, exposing less appealing features like seaweed or rocky areas. This could detract from the overall aesthetic of your ceremony backdrop. Coordinating your schedule with the local tide chart is essential.
2. Windy Conditions
Due to the resort’s oceanfront location, it can get windy, particularly during certain times of the year. This might affect outdoor ceremonies and receptions, potentially impacting decor, hairstyles, and overall comfort for you and your guests. Wind screens or alternative indoor arrangements may be necessary.
3. Small Indoor Hall with Limited Lighting
The resort’s indoor reception spaces are on the smaller side, which may not accommodate large groups comfortably. Additionally, the lighting in these halls is limited, which could affect the ambiance, especially for evening events. Couples planning an indoor celebration might need to invest in additional lighting solutions to create the desired atmosphere.
4. High Demand and Booking Availability
Tigh-Na-Mara is a sought-after venue, especially during peak wedding seasons like spring and summer. Couples may need to book well in advance to secure their desired date. For last-minute plans, availability could be limited.
5. Weather Dependency for Outdoor Weddings
The resort’s picturesque outdoor venues, such as the beach and garden, depend on favorable weather conditions. Vancouver Island’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in shoulder seasons, which means couples should have a backup indoor plan in place.
6. Noise Restrictions
The resort’s tranquil environment means there may be noise restrictions, especially in the evening hours. This could limit the length or volume of your reception, which may be a drawback for those wanting a lively, late-night celebration.
Start Planning Your Wedding Today
Tigh-Na-Mara Resort offers a wide range of customizable wedding packages, perfect for everything from intimate elopements to grand celebrations. Their experienced team will work closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring your wedding day is as magical as you’ve always dreamed. To learn more about Tigh-Na-Mara Resort and begin planning your wedding, visit their official website.
Whether or not you decide to celebrate your special day at Tigh-Na-Mara, I’d love to help you capture every unforgettable moment. As a wedding videographer, I’ll document your love story in a way that lets you relive your day for years to come. If you’re ready to create a timeless and stunning wedding video, book me here, and let’s make magic together!
You can find more photos and videos from this stunning venue on my Instagram: @paulina.iam. If you want more information contact me!