A Local's Guide to Downtown St. John’s Wedding & Newfoundland Planning
- Emily Frampton
- Jun 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10
Planning your big day in the heart of Newfoundland’s capital? There’s nothing quite like a downtown St. John’s wedding. With its colourful row houses, rich history, and unbeatable coastal views, this charming city offers the perfect blend of romance and character.
Whether you're a born-and-raised townie or planning a destination celebration, this local’s guide will help make your Newfoundland wedding planning smooth, stylish, and stress-free.
Best Downtown St. John’s Wedding Venues
A perfect blend of rustic and industrial, YellowBelly offers a warm, cozy atmosphere in one of the oldest buildings in St. John’s. With exposed brick, wooden beams, and incredible locally crafted beer, it’s a unique and intimate spot for your downtown celebration.
Tucked away on Water Street, the Gypsy Tea Room is known for its elegant charm and versatile event spaces. Whether you're planning a candlelit ceremony or a lively reception, this venue offers both sophistication and convenience right in the heart of downtown St. John’s.
With its modern aesthetic, high ceilings, and minimalist design, Bannerman Brewing is a dream venue for couples who love a clean, contemporary vibe. Plus, their beer is top-tier, and your guests will love the relaxed yet stylish atmosphere.
Picture-Perfect Photo Spots For Downtown St. John’s Wedding
One of the best perks of having a downtown St. John’s wedding is the variety of stunning photo locations just steps away from your venue.
Here are some local favourites:
George Street – Iconic and full of energy, George Street offers a fun, vibrant setting, especially perfect for evening photos or capturing your crew mid-celebration.
The Government House Grounds – This elegant and historic property is beautifully landscaped and ideal for romantic portraits in a timeless garden setting. We have to book this option, but it's free!
Bannerman Park – A classic St. John’s location, this park is gorgeous year-round, with tree-lined paths, heritage architecture, and wide-open green space for dreamy natural-light shots.
Signal Hill – Just a short drive from downtown, Signal Hill gives you dramatic coastal backdrops, historic stonework, and breathtaking views of the city and sea.
The Pedestrian Mall / Water Street – During the summer months, Water Street transforms into a car-free pedestrian mall—perfect for charming urban shots with colourful storefronts, cobblestones, and an unmistakably St. John’s vibe. If it’s off-season, the street still gives an urban chic vibe, unlike anywhere else in Canada.
Cuckold's Cove - Just a 5-minute drive from downtown St. John’s (and a stone’s throw from Quidi Vidi), Cuckold’s Cove is an easy hop-out-of-the-car location that delivers epic coastal views. With its dramatic cliffs, ocean backdrop, and quiet surroundings, it’s a dream spot for capturing those windswept, east coast moments.
💐 Support Local: Florists, Decor, and Vendors
A big part of successful Newfoundland wedding planning is working with vendors who know the downtown area inside and out.
Some local favourites include:
Spotlight Events for iconic wedding planning & decorating.
Flower Studio for whimsical, locally-inspired floral arrangements
Picco's Creations Specialty Cake Design for wedding cakes and treats
These vendors are not only talented, but they also know how to work with downtown logistics, like narrow streets and fast-changing weather.
Things to Keep in Mind When Planning A Downtown St. John’s Wedding & Newfoundland Planning
Parking & Transportation: Many downtown venues have limited parking, so consider hiring a shuttle or arranging cab service for guests.
Weather: St. John’s weather is known to shift quickly. Have a rain plan, especially for outdoor photos or ceremonies.
Permits: If you’re planning to take photos in places like The Government House, The Rooms, or Signal Hill check ahead for photography permissions.
Make It Personal
One of the best things about a downtown St. John’s wedding is how personal and meaningful it can feel. Whether you're saying your vows by the harbour, dancing under the stars on a rooftop, or treating guests to a pub crawl on George Street, there’s so much local flavour to include in your day.
Your wedding is more than just an event. It's a celebration of your story, and I’d love to help you capture every authentic, emotional, windblown moment along the way.
Planning your Downtown St. John’s Wedding in Newfoundland?
Let’s connect and chat about how I can help you bring your day to life through timeless, heartfelt photos.
Comments