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Thanks for stopping by! If you are planning a wedding at UBC Alumni Centre and still need a photographer I’d love to hear from you. Please use the contact form at the top of the page or email me directly at mf@mathiasfastphotography.com. I am currently booking Vancouver and Cape Town weddings for this year and next.
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If you’re envisioning a wedding that blends modern elegance with natural beauty, the Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre at the University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a premier venue in Vancouver. Located in the heart of UBC’s Point Grey campus, this award-winning facility provides a versatile setting for couples seeking a memorable celebration.
Venue Overview
The Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre is renowned for its contemporary design, featuring exposed cedar ceilings, stone accents, and expansive glass walls that flood the space with natural light. The venue’s architectural elements create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal backdrop for weddings of various styles.
Capacity and Layout
The centre offers multiple event spaces to accommodate different aspects of your wedding day:
- Jack Poole Hall: This spacious ballroom can host up to 300 seated guests or 400 standing guests. With its high ceilings and panoramic views, it’s perfect for both ceremonies and receptions. The room is equipped with built-in audiovisual equipment and offers flexible seating arrangements to suit your needs.
- Wong-Trainor Welcome Centre: Adjacent to Jack Poole Hall, this area is ideal for cocktail receptions and can accommodate up to 300 guests standing. The space features a marble bar, gas fireplace, and contemporary lounge furniture, providing a stylish setting for guests to mingle before the main event.
- Koerner Family Terrace Lounge: For more intimate gatherings or pre-wedding preparations, this penthouse lounge offers a wraparound patio with views of the campus. It’s available for an additional fee and is suitable for small tea ceremonies or as a bridal suite.
- Classrooms and Additional Spaces: The centre provides complimentary classroom space for the wedding party to store personal items or make quick changes during the event. Additional classrooms can be rented if needed.
Pricing and Packages
The Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre offers flexible rental options to suit different wedding plans:
- Daytime Ceremony Only (10 am – 3 pm): $5,000
- Full Day Booking (10 am – 1:30 am): $10,500
- A La Carte Option (4-hour access for load-in): $800 (weekdays), $1,000 (weekends)
Please note that statutory holiday weekends incur an additional $850 fee. Full-day bookings include complimentary next-day load-out from 6 am to 9 am, subject to availability.
Services and Amenities
The venue provides a range of services to ensure a seamless wedding experience:
- In-House Furnishings: Rental includes tables, chairs, podium, microphone, and room cleaning. A mid-event flip is possible if required.
- On-Site Support: A student event ambassador is available to assist with vendor coordination and basic audiovisual setup. However, couples are encouraged to hire a dedicated day-of coordinator for comprehensive support.
- Catering and Bar Services: The centre has exclusive catering partners to handle food and beverage services. Couples may bring in their own alcohol under a Special Event Permit, subject to approval and a small gallery fee.
- Parking: Paid parking is available in the Shipyards’ underground parking area, as well as metered parking along Wallace Mews and at the Pinnacle Hotel.
Booking Process and Discounts
To secure your wedding date, it’s recommended to book at least 18 months in advance. A 50% deposit is required upon booking, with the remaining balance due 90 days prior to the event. UBC alumni and their children are eligible for additional savings on room rental bookings.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodations
The Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre is situated within walking distance of several picturesque locations on the UBC campus, including the Rose Garden and Nitobe Memorial Garden, offering beautiful photo opportunities. Additionally, nearby accommodations such as the West Coast Suites and the Gage Residence provide convenient lodging options for out-of-town guests.
Conclusion
The Robert H. Lee Alumni Centre offers a sophisticated and flexible venue for couples seeking a memorable wedding experience in Vancouver. With its modern design, comprehensive amenities, and prime location on the UBC campus, it provides an ideal setting for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations. Whether you’re planning a daytime ceremony or a full-day event, the centre’s dedicated team is committed to ensuring your special day is executed flawlessly.
