Fairmont Empress Hotel

Seated dinner: 320 guests

“The Ballroom Crystal accommodates up to 320 seated guests in the venues with the maximum possible capacity, and also it can host 500 guests cocktail style.”

Standing reception: 500 guests

“The Ballroom Crystal accommodates up to 320 seated guests in the venues with the maximum possible capacity, and also it can host 500 guests cocktail style.”

Rooms: 431 rooms

“The 1908 historic site offers 431 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, Fairmont Spa featuring signature West Coast experiences, and Q at the Empress, which serves Pacific Northwest cuisine accompanied by an award-winning wine list, all while being home to one of the world’s most iconic Afternoon Tea experiences.”

Room types: 22 listed

“Fairmont City View 2 Double”

Outdoor ceremony: Yes

“From season to season, our outdoor spaces transform into magical settings for weddings, receptions and special events.”

Indoor option if it rains: Yes

“Whether you have always dreamed of a glamorous wedding or a romantic celebration in an intimate setting, our decadent venue with iconic indoor and enchanting outdoor options allow for any style of event and serves as the ideal backdrop to your declaration of forever.”

In-house catering: Yes

“With assistance from our globally trained culinary and bar team, we can curate your offerings to your colour pallet, theme and season.”

Dietary options: Vegetarian, plant-based, dairy-free, gluten-free and nut-free

“BREAKFAST COFFEE BREAKS LUNCH RECEPTION DINNER BEVERAGES v vegetarian | pb plant-based | df dairy-free | gf gluten-free | nf nut-free”

Bar on site: Yes

“Experience authentic Pacific Northwest cuisine, sip on inspired cocktails in Q Bar or take part in the timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea.”

Nearest airport: YYJ, 30 min by car

“YYJ”

Parking: Yes

“Valet parking is available for $53 per night.”

Step-free access: Yes

“Yes, Fairmont Empress has four accessible rooms with door frames that have ample room for wheelchair access.”

Event spaces: Ballroom and banquet room

“Meeting/banquet facilities”

Reception indoors: Yes

“Adorned with crystal chandeliers and steeped in more than a century of history, the multi-functional and versatile Crystal Ballroom is ideal for large meetings, conferences, receptions, formal black-tie galas, celebrations and weddings alike.”

Reception outdoors: Yes

“From season to season, our outdoor spaces transform into magical settings for weddings, receptions and special events.”

Space for dancing: Yes

“It is decorated with aisle markers, aisle runners, audio equipment, centrepieces, chair covers, dance floor, décor, drapery, furniture, lighting, chairs, tables, tents, barware, china, chocolate fountain, flatware, glassware, and linens.”

Swimming pool: Yes

“Yes, Fairmont Empress has an indoor heated swimming pool, indoor whirlpool, children’s wading pool, two saunas as well as men’s and women’s change rooms.”

Sea view: Yes

“Overlooking Victoria’s sparkling Inner Harbour and just steps away from downtown, Canada’s Castle on the Coast sits proudly at the center of culture and history.”

Gardens: Yes

“Historic Hotels Worldwide honours the property’s prestigious grounds as one of the Top 25 Most Magnificent Gardens in the World, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Vancouver Island’s stunning natural beauty.”

Historic building: Yes

“Declared a National Historic Site of Canada, the hotel has remained a living testament to Edwardian architecture and the golden age of travel.”