A more authentic choice
Imagining a better experience
After cancelling her large wedding due to complex family dynamics, founder Carmen Barnett eloped a month later in Las Vegas. What eventually evolved into relief, first had to be processed as grief for the big wedding dream. Once the pressure and overwhelm fell away with it, eloping through an exceptional experience felt like the more authentic choice.
For many couples, intimacy, privacy, and emotional safety mattered more than spectacle, pressure and expectation. For introverts, a day of performing and being the centre of attention is stressful on its own, never mind the planning. For the busy, the remarrying, and those who simply prefer to invest time and money on other priorities, eloping offers an ideal fit. We kept dreaming of a making them more accessible.
We believe exceptional options for venues and experiences should be as accessible for eloping couples as those choosing large weddings, with stunning locations, attention to detail, and the ease of it all being looked after. And we believe no one should have to leave Winnipeg to find it.
This is how Brick & Vow came to be: ready-to-book, impeccably handled and exceptional one-of-a-kind experiences for eloping couples who want options to make how they marry feel authentic to them, without the overwhelm, DIY logistics, or pressures of a big wedding.
That's why we're here.
We are a small, dedicated team in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and we'd love to help you elope.
Our Story
Meet Carmen Barnett,
owner & operator
I’m Carmen, an appointed Manitoba Marriage Commissioner, seasoned event professional, and public relations veteran with 20 years managing high-stakes moments that matter.
I never imagined doing elopements, but when the idea struck, everything clicked. After years planning public events at City Hall, I got to know Winnipeg well, its hidden corners, best views, and the people who help make Winnipeg events special. But I found myself craving more.
Connection to people & meaningful experiences draw me in. All roads have led here, and now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.
My path to Brick & Vow includes communications, event planning, scuba diving, living abroad, and the creative worlds of writing and theatre. And I eloped, too. Combined, they've taught me calm under pressure, attention to detail, to uncover the heart of every story, and the power of authenticity.
All of this shapes the full experience guiding Brick & Vow. I feel privileged to be present for these moments couples will remember for the rest of their lives. And oh, what a gift to be able to build them.
I can’t wait to be part of your elopement.
Giving Back
Brick & Vow Sponsored elopements
We believe everyone deserves access to a thoughtful elopement experience, regardless of circumstance. Love and commitment should not be limited by financial, social, or personal barriers.
Brick & Vow periodically offers sponsored elopements and vow renewals for couples facing barriers to accessing a marriage ceremony.
We recognize barriers can take many forms, including financial hardship, estrangement, anxiety, illness, family complexity, disability or jusst not feeling at home in traditional wedding spaces.
To be considered, submit through our contact form, and share a little about your relationship and why this opportunity would be meaningful to you.