Brandon & Rachel's Wedding Logo
Fairmont Château Laurier exterior

Fairmont Château Laurier

Ottawa's Grand Icon • Since 1912

A National Historic Site

You'll find the Château Laurier right at the corner of Rideau Street, just across from Parliament Hill. It's been a National Historic Site since 1980, and for more than a century, it's welcomed everyone from world leaders to everyday travelers looking for a truly special experience in the heart of Canada's capital.

The Origins of a Canadian Landmark

In 1907, during a time of grandeur and elegance, Ottawa's premier hotel was commissioned by American-born Charles Melville Hays, General Manager of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway of Canada. Unfortunately, Hays never had the chance to see his dream come true.

Days before the hotel's scheduled opening, the new president of the railway was returning from England with dining room furniture on the ill-fated Titanic. Hays and the male members of his party perished on April 15, 1912, just months before the hotel's grand opening.

Historic hotel lobby
Gothic architecture details

An Architectural Icon

With the Rideau Canal Locks on one side and the ByWard Market on the other, Fairmont Château Laurier's design combines the French Renaissance style with the neo-Gothic vertical lines of the Parliament Buildings, acting as a perfect complement to the most important site in Canada's government.

No expense was spared in its construction, with granite blocks, white Italian marble, Indiana limestone, and a copper roof ensuring the landmark building would stand the test of time.

Welcoming Stars & World Leaders

Since being officially opened by its namesake, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, the hotel has welcomed a long list of world leaders and famous stars. It has sometimes been called "the third chamber of Parliament" because of the number of prominent Canadian politicians who have roamed its corridors.

A list of the prominent people who have stayed here includes Bryan Adams, Nelson Mandela, Carrie Fisher, Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and just about any star who has performed in Ottawa. In these storied rooms and halls, political deals have been made and careers have been launched.

Elegant hotel interior with chandeliers
Gothic architecture details

Why We Chose It

Brandon has lived in downtown Ottawa for two years, often passing by the Château Laurier. Its central location and historic significance made it an obvious choice for our venue.

The Château Laurier sits at the very heart of Ottawa, making it easily accessible for all our guests. Its prime location near Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market, and the Rideau Canal means there's so much to explore before and after our celebration.

Our Wedding Celebration

Ceremony

Tudor Room

Beautiful wood-paneled walls and classic details. An intimate, warm setting for our ceremony.

Tudor Room - Wedding ceremony venue
Quebec Suite - Wedding reception venue

Reception

Quebec Suite

Our reception will take place in the elegant Quebec Suite, with its beautiful high ceilings and sophisticated atmosphere.

Brandon & Rachel

Join us as we celebrate our wedding in Ottawa on October 4, 2025.

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