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About
Stunning views. Beautiful spaces. An abundance of options! We don’t just do weddings – we do wedding experiences!
At Rocking R Guest Ranch, we appreciate the thought and preparation that goes into planning your wedding, and we want you to have a beautiful, seamless, and worry-free experience that you’ll remember forever.
Whether you are planning a small affair or a more formal wedding, our attentive and talented staff is here to make your vision a reality. Our beautiful permanent white wedding tent is the perfect blank canvas, and our spectacular views and rustic ranch spaces will make for stunning photos.
From start to finish, we help you every step of the way. From running a bar service, to providing a preferred vendor list, and pointing you in the right direction for catering – we will ensure that your special day is everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more.
Check out our webiste at: https://rocking-r-guest-ranch.websitepro.hosting/weddings/
Facilities and capacity
The facilities offered at this ranch include a natural wood arbour for ceremonies as well as a white wedding pavillion with a wood dance floor, elegant chandeliers and groups of lit trees. The pavillion can accomodate up to 150 guests. On-site accomodations feature two boutique cottages which can be used by the wedding party or by family & friends.
Services offered
Rocking R Guest Ranch offers couples the following services for their special day. The services include:
Accommodations
Bridal Cottage
Catering / Bar
Clean Up
Event Planning
Event Rentals
Lighting / Sound
Outside Vendors
Set Up
Cuisine
The team at this venue can cater a rehearsal BBQ for your family and friends if requested. A wedding day breakfast will be provided and includes champagne! Their professional culinary team will prepare an amazing dinner for your wedding reception. You are allowed to purchase your own liquor for your event and they will provide 2 bartenders for 8 hours.
Accommodation
The larger cottage is a perfect place for the bridal party to prepare for the wedding. The smaller, cozy cottage is reserved for the couple on their wedding night.
Other facilities
The Rocking R Guest Ranch is pleased to offer brides and/or grooms massages on the day of the wedding or on the day after the wedding. You can choose a relaxation, therapeutic or hot stone massage. What better way to end an already perfect weekend?
Highlights
Availability
Type
Farm, inn/B&B
Style
Country, glamorous, rustic, waterfront
Event Services
Accommodations, bridal suite, cake, catering / bar, clean up, event planning, event rentals, liability insurance, lighting / sound, outside vendors, set up
Reception Site Fee - Peak Season
$10,000
Plated Service (per head)
$50
More information
How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?
One Wedding Pavilion and Outdoor Ceremony Area
What kind of settings are available?
Covered outdoor
Uncovered outdoor
Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?
Ceremony
Reception
Bridal shower
Engagement party
Rehearsal dinner
What catering services do you offer?
Cocktail reception
Dessert
Family style
Hors d'oeuvres
Outside cake
Plated
Server(s)
Stations
Tastings
What bar services do you provide?
Bartender(s)
Champagne toast
Open bar
Outside alcohol
What event items are available?
Aisle markers
Altar/arches
Audio equipment
Centerpieces
Dance floor
Decor
Drapery
Furniture
Lighting
Chairs
Tables
Tent accessories
Tents
What food and beverage items are available?
Barware
China
Flatware
Glassware
Linens
What transportation and access is available?
Parking
Shuttle
Wheelchair access
Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?
Yes
What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?
$5,000
Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?
No
What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during peak season?
$3,500
What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during off-peak season?
$3,500
Which of the following are included in starting site fee?
Set up
Clean up
Event planning
Chairs
Tables
Linens
China
Flatware
Glassware
Lighting/sound
Parking
Bridal suite
What is the average catering price per person for buffet service?
$75
What is the average catering price per person for stations?
$75
What is the average catering price per person for hors d'oeurves?
$15
Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?
Cake cutting
Server(s)
Dessert
What is the starting price per person for bar service?
$13
Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?
Our wedding at Rocking R Guest Ranch was the most amazing day ever. We had to postpone our wedding 3 times before it actually happened on July 9, 2022 but our experience at the Ranch made it well worth the wait. Kara and Ryan went above and beyond to make our day perfect! The venue itself is absolutely beautiful and the customer service is top notch! If you want a rustic, elegant wedding, Rocking R Guest Ranch is the place to book!
+ 5Photos
Allyson H. Married on 18/09/2021
5 out of 5 rating
5.0
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
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Value
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Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
The Best Venue Ever!
We had our wedding at Rocking R Guest Ranch in September 2021 and everything about it was perfect. We wanted a venue outside of Calgary and something a little more "rustic" and we instantly fell in love with the Ranch. From the stunning view of the lake with the horses in the pasture, the beautiful reception tent and ceremony spot, and the cozy cabins, it is THE venue to have your wedding at.
We were initially supposed to get married in June 2020 and had to postpone due to COVID. Terri was so wonderful throughout what was already a stressful time, and I cannot say enough good things about her, she is the best!! She was so flexible, easy to deal with and made the entire experience so enjoyable and special. Terri provides couples with a list of trusted vendors from photographer to DJ, which made finding those vendors so easy and stress free. You must use the Ranch's preferred caterer, and it was such an honor to have Chef Judy from YYC Flavour cater our wedding. The food was absolutely delicious, and all our guests told us after how amazing everything was (We had the cedar plank salmon and braised short ribs as our mains, they were to die for!) I could go on and on about the food but trust me when I say you will not be disappointed!
I always thought I would feel way more stressed out as the day came closer, but I wasn't at all thanks to Terri, she really has thought of everything! We had such an amazing wedding weekend, from getting to the Ranch on Friday night to set things up, to taking everything down on Sunday, the entire weekend was relaxed, fun, and so special. The actual day of our wedding was incredibly windy so our plans to have a champagne toast on the patio after the ceremony had to move inside but Terri had already thought of that and by the time I had freshened up and made my way to the tent everything was all under control. This is just one of many examples of how I didn’t have to worry about barely anything on the day. Thankfully the wind died down right as the sun was setting and our guests were able to get outside onto the beautiful patio to take pictures and enjoy themselves.
Another thing I loved about the tent itself is that it's basically a blank canvas. With the help of some creative family members, I was able to have my wedding vision come to life. There is already a lot included with the Ranch, like a twinkly back drop for the head table, tree lights, hanging chandeliers, wine barrel tables for the cake and coffee tables, and so much more, that I really didn’t need to rent many decorations!
My husband and I cannot say enough good things about Rocking R Guest Ranch and highly recommend it to every couple looking for a venue, you will not be disappointed!!
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
Hello Ally and Thomas,
It was truly a joy to host your wedding and we are thrilled that you loved the venue and all we had to offer. Thanks for being great guests of the ranch!
Terri
Sarah B. Married on 27/07/2019
5 out of 5 rating
5.0
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Amazing wedding experience
My husband and I just recently got married at Rocking R Guest Ranch and had what can only be described as a perfect day.
We started our wedding venue search with the goal of finding something outdoorsy, but found the places in Banff, Kanaskasis and Canmore to not quite fit the bill - either too expensive or too restrictive or too cookie cutter. We stumbled upon Rocking R while doing some online searching and were able to meet with Terri the next day to check it out. We fell in love immediately and have absolutely no regrets with having our big day out there. Nearly every guest commented on how picturesque the setting is and what a wonderful wedding spot we had found.
Terri was incredibly supportive every step of the way, making sure we were on track and able to answer any and all questions.
Her list of preferred vendors made the planning stages nearly seamless as we went with her tried and true suppliers who did not disappoint. A tasting dinner in early spring allowed us to meet with additional vendors as well as taste the delicious food from the on location caterer.
Being able to have access to the venue from Friday afternoon to Sunday morning allowed for a non-frantic set up and time spent with friends and family during the rehearsal bbq which we were able to host out there as well. The cabins on site are extremely well appointed with every detail thought of.
We additionally hired a ‘day of’ coordinator which took the organization to the next level and allowed Terri to focus on keeping the venue top notch.
Hurry up and book this place!
Sarah and Rob
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
Thank you for the wonderful review! Your wedding was very unique and we loved the little touches you added like paddling in for your grand entry and using a canoe for your outside bar! You and Rob are lovely people and it was a pleasure to help you plan your delightful wedding. Wishing you all the best in your future!
Are you interested?
Request pricing
Tia K. Married on 29/06/2019
5 out of 5 rating
5.0
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
5.0 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Absolutely Perfect Wedding Venue
We had our wedding at the Rocking R' Guest Ranch on June 29th, 2019. We came across this venue by chance when we were searching in the fall of 2017! We instantly fell in love.
From the moment you drive onto the property you are surrounded by natural beauty and an instant feeling of relaxation! Terri was amazing to work with and she really has thought of it all. She is prompt in her responses and so incredibly easy to work with. Her staff and trusted vendors are extremely professional - from the amazing dinner service to the top notch bar tenders, nothing about our experience was negative.
We had an absolutely perfect wedding weekend and I would recommend this venue to anyone looking for a relaxed, fun wedding. This venue offered us a beautiful outdoor ceremony spot (with a wood arbour and a stunning tree to tie the knot under), a spot to set up lawn games for our guests, so many amazing spots to take photos, a patio for all of our guests to enjoy each other's company and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, a tent for our reception and dance, and 2 beautiful cottages to enjoy over the weekend!
We cant wait to go back and stay in one of the cottages for a few nights. There is something so peaceful about this place and it truly is something special!
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
Thank you for the wonderful review!! We very much enjoyed hosting your wedding at the ranch. You, Alex, your family and friends were so easy to work with and we are thrilled that were able to make your wedding day a success! All the best in your married life!
Jade C. Married on 18/08/2018
4.8 out of 5 rating
4.8
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
4.0 out of 5 rating
4.0
Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Beautiful views and venue
It is a beautiful venue and property. Terri really takes care of you which takes away a lot of stress that comes with planning. She is very professional and organized. The food was amazing and all of our guests enjoyed the selection from the appies to dinner. The only down sides are having to have the music off and guests gone by 1230 but that was made very clear to us prior to booking. As well as part of the package is having access to the beautiful cabins on the property but they are pricey and you do have to pay for them regardless if you are using both or not for the weekend. There are lots of beautiful areas around for taking wedding photos and everything went very smoothly.
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
Hello Jade,
Thank you for the kind review! Our bridal parties love being on-site from Friday to Sunday as everything they need is easily accessible. We very much enjoyed your wedding - you and your guests were wonderful!
Jessica C. Married on 26/08/2017
5 out of 5 rating
5.0
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
5.0 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Rocking R Guest Ranch was an absolutely beautiful place for our wedding! Terri and Marv made us feel comfortable all weekend, and ensured everything was perfect and taken care of! We loved that we got to spend the weekend on the ranch and didn't have to worry about rushing out for another event like most venues. We spent the nights in the cabin and it was a total blast and so convenient to be able to get ready right on the property. They also made breakfast the morning of which was delicious! The ceremony spot is gorgeous and the tent is nice and spacious, but be prepared in knowing that it really is a blank canvas and if you want certain things for decor, it is a big space and is not cheap. I loved that we were able to make it our own though! It also made for stunning photos!
+ 4Photos
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
Hello Jessica
Thank you for the wonderful review. You certainly took that blank canvas and made it your own. Your decor was absolutely stunning!
Terra F. Married on 08/10/2016
2 out of 5 rating
2.0
Quality of service
1.0 out of 5 rating
1.0
Responsiveness
4.0 out of 5 rating
4.0
Professionalism
2.0 out of 5 rating
2.0
Value
2.0 out of 5 rating
2.0
Flexibility
1.0 out of 5 rating
1.0
We had a wedding at Rocking R Guest Ranch this past October, to be honest Terri made it far more stressful and was not easy to deal with!!
We experienced the following:
- When we first met with Terri she suggested last call be at 11:30 as everyone needs to be off the property by 1:00 a.m. However a month before the wedding she told us music must be off by 11:30 due to the bylaws, this was a huge shock to us both!
- Be careful about having your ceremony outside! It was forecast to snow on the day of my wedding and Terri wouldn't allow me to have the chairs outside and said "can't your guest stand during the ceremony". She didn't want to risk getting the plastic chair wet. Thus I had to move the ceremony instead the tent as we had a bunch of older people and couldn't have them standing.
- Be sure to check the condition of everything in both the tent and cabins prior to setting up or using them for the wedding!!!!! We are being charged for a new freezer, as it was dented, and cleaning of a seat cushion, as it was stained and Terri couldn't get it out. We didn't damage either.
- Glassware is not included in the corkage fee and you are expected to rent the glassware, although it isn't in your contract!! Also I requested that we have asparagus for the caesars and milk for paralyzers and Terri said this isn't included in the corkage fee of $6.50 per person so I ended up picking them up.
- I choose to not use Terri's vendors for rentals and she was not impressed by this. I found a cheaper place to rent as I had a coupon and she mentioned my glassware rentals looked "cheap" compared to the ones she usually gets. She said she doesn't want the venue to look cheap! ** I rented ordinary water goblets, wine and cocktail glasses.
- You are must use her caterer. For appetizers we had coconut covered shrimp, soft pretzels and candied bacon. The coconut shrimp were soggy and the soft pretzels were WAY over cooked and hard as rock. The dinner was good - although 3/4 of my guest told me there wasn't enough food, my guest were still hungry after dinner. This was after being reassured time and time again that there will be lots of food.
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
I am sorry that you were not happy with your wedding at the ranch. We have no control over the weather hence the documentation we provide to all our potential couples indicates “We can move the wedding into the tent if the weather does not cooperate on Saturday.” On the day of your wedding it was –9C with the wind chill and the hoar frost was falling off the trees. The reason we do not want the wedding chairs outside on damp cold days is due to the padded seats. If they get wet they can take up to 24 hours to dry and we don’t want the guests to have to sit through the reception on a wet chair.
We pride ourselves on keeping our equipment in good condition and we give our guests direction with respect to hanging signs etc. for events. Ladders are supplied in the wedding tent so that guests can decorate without damaging our equipment. If they chose to stand on the equipment instead of the using the ladder then they will have to pay for any damage to the equipment. As to the stain on the seat cushion, the dry cleaner was able to remove it at a reasonable cost so you will not be charged for that. We do not charge our guests for normal wear and tear as that is simply the cost of doing business.
We do not have a commercial dishwasher capable of washing large volumes of glasses so the glasses are rented. This is stated in the documentation presented to each couple. In fact, we run an estimate for the total cost of the wedding prior to accepting any deposits. As to the type of glassware that we rent, it is simple but elegant, in keeping with our venue. It also fits nicely in the bar which eliminates storage issues for us.
I am sorry that the food fell short of your expectations. I will speak to the chef about this. At the previous wedding the guests came into the kitchen to praise the chef for an outstanding meal so I am not sure why your wedding dinner was not up to our usual standards.
Thank you for bringing these matters to our attention. Please accept our apology for anything that was not to your liking. We try very hard to ensure that our guests enjoy their time at the ranch as evidenced by the number of excellent Trip Advisor Reviews that we have received to date. It saddens me that yours is not in keeping with the other reviews.
Megan Married on 03/05/2014
4.8 out of 5 rating
4.8
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
4.0 out of 5 rating
4.0
Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
I had my beautiful wedding here at the Rocking R Guest Ranch back in May 2015.
It was a beautiful stress free day (except for the rainy parts) that I had such an amazing time. I couldn't be happier!
Terri was amazing! She was very accommodating for any specific requests (I had a harp brought in and she got a bunch of help getting that beast in!) she was professional and allowed me to just relax and enjoy the party.
In the morning we rented out the beautiful cottages and the ladies got ready in the larger cabin. The facility was new and beautiful! My self and my family were very happy to have this option! It makes for an easy retreat after your busy wedding!
I got the horse and carriage as a part of our package which really added to my entrance! The horses were beautiful and well groomed for the occasion. I had a lot of compliments on this!!
Our Dinner was delicious! We ordered the boneless short ribs which were to die for!
In all I would highly recommend having your wedding here. It was such a gorgeous venue. I am one happy wife!
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
Hello Megan,
It was such a pleasure hosting you, Ken and your guests at the ranch. We are thrilled that you enjoyed your wedding weekend!
Dani Married on 24/07/2021
5 out of 5 rating
5.0
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Flexibility
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
My favourite wedding
My husband and I recently got married at the rocking r guest ranch and it was the most perfect day! We had zero issues, not only on the day of the wedding but during the whole planning process! Terri was awesome to deal with, quick to get back to me with all my questions. Her staff on the day of the wedding were all so kind and nice! We went with the DJ they suggested to us and we are so happy we did! He had the party going and everyone up dancing all night. So many of my guests have said it was the best wedding they have been too! Terri and her staff made setting up and taking down a breeze! I didn’t bring many of my own decorations because I loved the way it looked how it was simply decorated to begin with! I would recommend this venue to everyone! It was the best day!
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
We loved hosting your wedding! The staff and I very much enjoyed your family and friends. Lovely people! Thank you for taking the time to write a review for us; much appreciated!
Jordyn S. Married on 07/08/2020
4.8 out of 5 rating
4.8
Quality of service
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Responsiveness
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Professionalism
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Value
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0
Flexibility
4.0 out of 5 rating
4.0
Destination wedding local
We were planning a destination wedding before Covid happened and when everything closed down we started looking for alternatives. We were planning a small wedding to start with and Terri made our weekend exactly what we wanted. I didn't want to plan a wedding and she made all of our plans/dreams come true. The accommodation, food and trail ride were all perfect. We are local to Strathmore and it was still a nice getaway.
Rocking R Guest Ranch's reply:
It was a pleasure to help you plan your wedding! We are so happy that you and Tyler enjoyed your weekend at the ranch.
Bolognaise stuffed ravioli with a fresh basil & pine nut pesto sauce
Roasted cauliflower risotto with seared mushrooms & truffle oil
Caramelized onions & slow roasted tomato tart with aged cheddar
Fresh gazpacho with grilled herb prawns
(Choose 1)
Main course:
Short ribs in a bourbon sauce with roasted shallot smashed potatoes
Seared halibut on a bed of tomato gratin with warm spinach & a pine nut relish
Chicken breast stuffed with prosciutto & cheese with piperade sauce
Seared bison tenderloin with saskatoon berry demi with roasted shallots & blue cheese
Grilled beef tenderloin with chimichurri style butter on celeriac & potato mash
Beef tenderloin caramelized shallot with a port demi glaze sauce
Chicken supreme stuffed with boursin served with a white wine sauce
(Choose 2)
Served with:
Seasonal vegetable, dinner rolls & potato gratin
Oven roasted yukon gold & sweet potatoes with fresh thyme
Roasted shallot mashed potatoes with crispy sage
Wild rice medley pilaf
(Choose 2)
Dessert course:
Trio of chocolate: Chocolate panna cotta, chocolate toffee crunch & chocolate bouchon
Trio of vanilla: Crème brulée, toasted white chocolate pot de crème, berries with a vanilla sabayon
Trio of lemon: Lemon meringue, lemon panna cotta & lemon tart with berries
Trio of raspberry or strawberry: Raspberry verrine, raspberry napoleons, mini french toasts with raspberries
Verrine: (a glass with panacotta, fresh raspberries, raspberry coulis & raspberry mousse)
Trio of warm: Warm gingerbread cake with toffee sauce & vanilla ice cream, warm rustic apple pie with maple icing, warm bread pudding with a praline sauce
(Choose 1)
Meet the team
Kara Carriere
Owner
I'm a country girl at heart and Rocking R Guest Ranch is the perfect backdrop for your dream country wedding!
Supremely organized, I'm the one that will make your wedding everything you've ever dreamed and more!
