Elegant Elopement in Vienna’s City Hall

From the streets of Vancouver to the ornate halls of Vienna’s City Hall, Alex and Rain’s love story is one of romance, resilience, and refined elegance. Their elopement in Vienna was a celebration as meaningful as it was magical—filled with architectural beauty, heartfelt vows, and international flair.

Alex and Rain first met in Vancouver nearly a decade ago, after Alex moved to Canada and decided to dive into the world of online dating. “When I moved to Vancouver, I didn't know anyone yet. I was eager to meet people and start building a life here,” Alex shares. “Shortly after moving, I met Rain. Our first date was one of those magical dates where neither of us wanted it to end … it ended with our first kiss on the balcony at Rain’s apartment and I was hooked.”

Rain fondly recalls their early memories together. “From quiet weekends to the chaos of the Richmond Night Market, to yearly camping trips, Alex is always showing me the best of home, city, and nature,” he said. “To share a lifetime of this is a richer story than I could ever imagine.”

In 2022, during a trip to New York City, Alex proposed on a hotel balcony with champagne and roses. Two years later, they were exchanging vows in a city they both adored—Vienna.

On the morning of their wedding, Alex and Rain began their day in the luxurious Hotel Imperial, where they enjoyed quiet moments together over light refreshments before getting ready side by side. The setting was serene and sophisticated—an elegant prelude to the celebration to come.

Their ceremony took place inside Vienna’s iconic Rathaus (City Hall), a striking neo-Gothic building that holds special meaning for the couple. “We love Vienna and Austrian culture,” they shared. Their photographer Lillia Chuba adding, “With its grand halls and “Hogwarts” charm, it was a perfect place.”

Both grooms wore classic black and white tuxedos, polished off with cufflinks they had purchased on their first trip to Vienna together—bringing their journey full circle.

Because the ceremony was conducted in German, Ruth Day, a translator they had worked with throughout the legal process, served as their interpreter.

Their custom gold wedding bands, handcrafted by local goldsmith Cornelia Gänger, were engraved with the words “NOW · FOREVER”, a tribute to Vienna’s city motto and the timeless promise they made to one another. “Exchanging our handwritten vows was the most emotional and touching part of the day,” they said.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds strolled hand-in-hand through Vienna’s historic Old Town, pausing to capture romantic portraits against the backdrop of centuries-old architecture. They were even greeted with a gorgeous sky. “We took photos outside and saw a rainbow in the sky. It was such a fun surprise and wonderful timing.”

They ended the evening at a traditional Viennese sausage stand, toasting with champagne and bratwurst in hand—a charming and authentic way to celebrate their union.

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Photography: Liliia Chuba

Officiant: Mag. Isabelle-Adriana Madar

Venue: Vienna City Hall

Hotel: Hotel Imperial

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