Salt Spring Island mini road trip
Past November Jelger and I visited Salt Spring Island to take a break after a super busy season. For the first time our busy season lasted until late fall and we were in dire need of a vacation.
On this mini road trip we intended to turn off our overly wired brains, enjoy nature and not be around too many people. I know I say this often, and I don't mean it in any negative way. But as a wedding photographer, you're often surrounded by plenty of guests to interact with. I love the thrill of a wedding day just as much as I love not seeing a single person for a few days. ;)
When thinking about possible vacation locations, we preferred to stay in British Columbia. One of the Gulf Islands seemed like a good idea. And Salt Spring Island stood out with its gorgeous nature and artsy vibe. But especially because of the amazing amazing coffee. ;) We booked an Airbnb and off we went!
Although the island had a lot to offer, it left us feeling a bit mixed. On one hand the nature is absolutely gorgeous and because of the down season we had the parks to ourselves. But on the the other hand we were surprised about the huge amount of shoreline properties that severely restricted the beach access. This meant we couldn't just hop on the beach anywhere. But enough about what we didn't like.
On one of our first days on Salt Spring Island we drove up the winding road to Mount Maxwell Provincial Park. The last stretch was unpaved and we felt brave when we took our trusty 4x4 off road. We used to be such chickens with our new car, even though we did buy it for this purpose. It was totally worth it, such an enchanting forest.
A few days later we decided to randomly cruise around the island and discovered some hidden gems. For instance a tiny floating house owned by a very kind gentleman and his dog.
All in all we had a good time of rest and relaxation and would love to visit the island again to photograph a wedding day!f
Salt Spring Island photos
If you're loving the Island vibes, you might enjoy the photographs we took of a wedding we photographed at another amazing Island: Bowen Island!
Cecil Green wedding: Whitney + Charlotte
I'm very excited to share Whitney and Charlotte's Cecil Green wedding on our blog today! :) It's a great time of the year to reminisce on all the people we met and the fun weddings we photographed. Whitney and Charlotte's wedding had so many unique little touches, it makes me smile to go through the photos. <3
This was the first time Jelger and I photographed a couple getting ready in the same house and room! Most of all we enjoyed seeing the entire bridal party and the two of them in one space. But before heading out to Cecil Green Park House, they took their time and enjoyed a lunch together. Charlotte, who is an alumna at Green College, got special permission to have photographs taken there. While Jelger and I have been at Cecil Green before, Green College was a first and man it's beautiful there!!
If you remember their engagement photos, you probably remember James Brown, their amazing chocolate labrador! He was the star of the bridal party with his adorable flower collar. ;) And he did a great job as ring bearer too later in the day.
After the group photos, we got to explore a bit with the two of them, including a short trip to the Trail 3 entrance, because (I quote Charlotte) "It looks like the Jurassic park forest". It totally does. ;) Absolutely lush, green and amazing.
The ceremony was beautiful and emotional. I definitely had to blink away some tears. The couple spoke heartfelt personal vows. I also love how they included thanking the First Nations for use of the land.
The rest of the night was all about having a good time! There were lawn games for the guests, hilarious speeches and a live band (The Phonix) for their first dance and the dancing!
Whitney and Charlotte, thank you so much for having us!
Cecil Green wedding photos
PS: Check out this wedding's beautiful blog feature on Equally Wed!
Cecil Green wedding vendors:
- Ceremony and reception Venue: Cecil Green Park House
- Wedding Planner: Nicole with Past Pieces weddings and events
- Design and Decor: Past Pieces Vintage & Vintage Inspired Rentals
- Floral Designer: Kaye Fleur
- Makeup Artist: Artistry By Jax
- Officiant: Shawn from Young Hip & Married
- Band: The Phonix Band
- Charlotte's dress: BHLDN
- Whitney's suit: J.Crew
- Cake Designer: Cadeaux Bakery
- Caterer: Scholar’s Catering
Dog Mountain hike Winter vs Summer
Dog Mountain hike on Mt. Seymour is one of Jelger and my favourite quick hikes. As it often happens, we end up with a "late hike" on our day off. We start the day sleeping in, drinking coffee, lounging, starting to get bored aaaand wanting to go out for a hike eventually. ;) Since driving from our appartement (or from anywhere in Vancouver, really) to the parking lot on top of the mountain takes only 30-45 min it's always worth going!
Past August, when it was still full-on Summer weather, it was the first time we went so late that we had to hike back in the dark. Luckily we came prepared with flashlights and ehm, cellphones. ;) It was much easier than I anticipated to hike in the dark! What a great option for us night owls. I should add: be aware that when it's cold, batteries die quickly! And when hiking in Winter, your phone is dead in no time unless you keep it on your body. So definitely don't rely on your phone's flashlight to guide you back!
Past Monday, we returned to Dog Mountain for an equally late walk. We even missed the sunset entirely before reaching the top. But with our headlamps and the sparkling lights of the city in the background, it was just magical. The thick carpet of snow silenced everything and it was such a peaceful and quiet experience to hike back in the dark. Not being able to see as much of the environment also surprisingly enhanced my sense of smell. Pines smells soooo good. ;)
After living in BC for 6 years, the gorgeous nature never gets old. And the seasons continuously add more dimensions to our familiar views. Enjoy these Summer and Winter photos!
Dog Mountain hike in Summer
Dog Mountain hike in Winter
If you'd like to go explore Dog Mountain with us in any season, we'd love to do an engagement shoot or even an elopement (if you find an active officiant, heehee) up there! Or if you're already married and want to go out for photos in your dress... you know where to find us. ;)
Another great hike on Mount Seymour is Mystery Lake! (not available in Winter)
Harrison Hot Springs wedding
A Harrison Hot Springs wedding is something that has been on my wish list for a while! After visiting Harrison Hot Springs 2 years ago, we were definitely sold! So when this amazing duo brought us out there we were over the moon! Just in case you're wondering why I'm not mentioning the couple's names: they requested to leave them out to respect their privacy. We're happy to be able to share these photos, thanks guys!!!
The day started with both of us spending some time with the girls. While usually Jelger joins the guys, this time they were bathing in the pool of the Harrison Resort. What an awesome way to start your wedding day! Too bad a public bathing space would be too weird for camera's lol. ;)
Up until a few minutes before the ceremony, the decision of where to have the wedding went back and forth between outdoors and indoors. The weather was quite unpredictable and to be safe, they decided to stay indoors. And they chose right, because it was pouring outside during the ceremony! Luckily by the time we started the portraits, the rain had finished and we went outside. Sure, it was a little cold, but nothing some booze couldn't fix. ;) One of my favourite moments was when out on the pier and a perfectly timed group of birds flew by as I was taking a photo of the couple.
Later on during the reception, I had the best time listening to some Afrikaans! The bride's background is South African. It's amazing how many words are the same/similar to our native Dutch. An extra fun moment was when the groom got "roasted" during his speech. It's a South African tradition during which the guests sing songs and tease the speaker.
Shout-out to the bride's parents! Her dad made all the flowers and he's NOT a florist! Can you imagine?! I think he's got a career option there. Those huge centerpieces were flawless. ;) And the bride's mom made the cake, which was by far the biggest cake I've ever photographed.
Thanks so much for trusting us to photograph your day guys! We loved every minute of it.
Harrison Hot Springs wedding photos
Harrison Hot Springs wedding vendors
- Venue: Harrison Hot Springs Resort
- Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa
- DJ + Photo booth: Painted Frog Entertainment
- Makeup artist: Melody Calderón
- Hair stylist: Montana's Bridal Hair
- Creative Heart Events
- Cake artist: the bride's mom!
- Florist: the bride's dad!
- Wedding dress: Alfred Angelo Wedding Dress from Lisa's Bridal Salon
- Sorella Vita from Agape Bridal
- From Ronald Allen
Sea to Sky Gondola engagement: Cathy + Andrew
Cathy and Andrew decided on Sea to Sky Gondola engagement photos. Jelger and I loved it! While we'd been up to the Summit Lodge several times for weddings, this was our first engagement shoot in the Squamish hotspot!
Luck was definitely on our side that day. In Summer the Sea to Sky Gondola is usually open late, so we didn't leave Vancouver in a hurry. But apparently late September is already off-season, meaning the last ride down was at 5pm! Luckily we still had enough time to the gondola up and explore the beautiful Sea to Sky Summit surroundings. Still, lesson learned: always check the opening hours! ;)
I'm so glad we got to know Cathy and Andrew, as they are a super fun food loving, adventurous traveling couple.
Whenever they go on a hike, they take a photo of Andrew holding Cathy in his arms. So of course that became part of the shoot!
We also got to explore some of the smaller trails and saw a surprising amount of adorable wildlife: the cutest chipmunk, a mouse with a big mushroom, a grouse and of course the obligatory raven in the sky. <3
What more could I want in life than photographing fun couples and seeing furry and feathered animals while being surrounded by epic nature? Oh that's right, good food! Which we did afterwards by going for burgers and beer in Squamish village. ;)
Maybe the mouse with the mushroom inspired us, because weeks after our shoot Cathy and I took a mushroom course together! We drove to Chilliwack where we first learned all about mushrooms and then ventured out into the forest to forage some ourselves. Cathy turned out most successful at finding edible ones! But my biggest takeaway from the course was that we now mostly know how easily you can poison yourself, hahaha. ;)
I'm stoked to photograph Cathy and Andrew's wedding next May!
Interested in having Sea to Sky Gondola engagement photos?
We're more than willing to drive to Squamish (or even Whistler!) for your engagement photos. Do you have a spot with a special meaning? Or a wish to explore other parts of our beautiful province? Get in touch right here.
Coquitlam wedding: Daiana + Dennis
Past September Jelger and I had the pleasure of photographing Daiana and Dennis' Coquitlam wedding. To say it was only in Coquitlam would actually be an understatement. They included several amazing spots in Vancouver, Burnaby and Port Moody!
My morning started with Daiana and the girls in a lovely suite. One of my favourite moments was when Daiana's sister decided to get in the tub to write her speech. It must have been surprisingly comfy in there, because another bridesmaid decided to join her! ;) I was also happy to see our former bride Anca as a bridesmaid, we photographed her wedding in 2015! It makes me feel extra special to know several people at a wedding. <3
Meanwhile on the boy's side, Jelger hung out with Daiana and Dennis' adorable puppy Max. The groomsmen gave Dennis a full-on wet shave according to the Romanian wedding tradition. You need a lot of trust to let someone else shave your face! (I don't think I'd let Jelger shave my legs, cough).
Next, the couple had an adorable first look at Rocky Point Park. I always love first looks. No judgement if you don't have one, but man, it's romantic. ;) It was also the first time Jelger and I worked together in this park! The dramatic cloudy sky certainly made it look spectacular!
Afterwards we headed over to the St Nicholas and Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Church. The church accommodated our couple by providing them a Romanian ceremony including the traditional crowns.
It doesn't happen often that we get to photograph our couples in two separate locations. But Daiana and Dennis took the time for the family photos and some more couple photos at Burnaby Mountain. Luckily, the rain stayed away for long enough and it was absolutely beautiful up there. Jelger told me he loves the totem pole with the bear. (find it in the photo ;) )
The couple entered their reception in style on a red carpet and spent the rest of the night partying hard! Moments that I'll definitely remember are when they tricked Dennis during the garter toss by quickly replacing Daiana's leg with a hairy men's leg. ;) Their guest who suddenly danced on his hands surprised us too! And seriously good dancing too!! I also enjoyed the moment when Daiana's mom provided her with some marriage necessities, such as a big jar of nutella.
Daiana and Dennis thank you so much for having us at your wedding!
Coquitlam wedding vendors
- Makeup artist: Miss Silvia
- Church: St Nicholas and Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Church
- Coquitlam wedding reception venue: Executive Plaza Hotel Coquitlam
- Videography: Lovebug cinema
- Bride's dress: Tiffany's bridal Vancouver
- Groom's suit: Debonair Formal Wear
- Florist: Dorina Enachescu
Swan-e-set wedding in Pitt Meadows: Carry + Calvin
We were excited to photograph Carrie and Calvin's Swan-e-set wedding this past September. Of course we loved working at a gorgeous venue, but more important we knew this duo was going to have one big ass party!
The day started with wedding door games. Calvin and his groomsmen killed it! I don't know if I could have eaten the ultra spicy food and I'd probably have screamed having my legs waxed. Lol. The things one must do for love (or for bridesmaid's entertainment ;) ).
Carrie and Calvin chose to have traditional Chinese Tea ceremonies in both of their parent's houses. Jelger and I always feel honored photographing this moment. It's an emotional moment and there's a lot of thought that goes into it.
Once everyone arrived at Swan-e-set, Carrie to change into her white dress and Calvin into his three-piece suit. The two of them chose to have a first look before heading outside for their portraits.
The weather decided to not cooperate, causing the ceremony and bridal party photos to take place inside. But it also meant having cool puddles and amazingly green and lush trees. So happy Carrie and Calvin were adventurous to brave the rain with us!
When the ceremony started, the couple surprised their guests by having everyone dance down the aisle! The ceremony had laughter and tears, all the feels. It was beautiful.
The rest of the night had many more games, table toasts and a beautiful first dance. Calvin and his groomsmen took the party to the next level with an unexpected dance performance! They worked very hard because the choreography was amazing. Carrie had no idea he had prepared this.
After we put our cameras away the couple invited us for tequila shots. Hard to say no to that! ;) And for the first time someone actually took a photo of that! Unintentionally I forget to take selfies with our couples. We're just so focussed on taking photos of the wedding that we only remember on our way home.
Thanks so much Carrie and Calvin for having us photograph your wedding. We had the best time and hope our paths will cross again in the future!
Swan-e-set wedding photos
Wedding vendors:
- Venue: Swan-e-set Bay Resort and Country Club
- Makeup artist and hair stylist: Tianna Tran
- Catering: Swan-e-set Bay Resort and Country Club
- Flowers: Bootah Jardin
- DJ: i-DJ Services
- Cake artist: Salt & Scotch Baking, Jennelyn Thompson
- Guest favours: Coconama
- Wedding Officiant: Kevin Fatkin
7 tips for your wedding day family photos
We all have memories of photo time with our family when we were kids (or adults!). Often we remember a feeling of boredom: everyone lining up, smiling at the camera... Meh! I certainly have felt that way.
So when Jelger and I got married (now over 6 years ago!), I didn't give our wedding day family photos a second thought. Luckily our photographer planned some time for them.
Little did I know that 5 years later I'd go through those photos realizing they contained pretty much the only photo I have of me as an adult, with my grandfather. He passed away and suddenly this one photo became so valuable to me.
Photo of me and my grandfather by Lesley and Adam Photography
Maybe nowadays people take more selfies with their family and with the ever improving phone cameras, they have better quality than the photos we used to take. But still, it's not the same as a professional photo, on an important celebratory day.
All I'm trying to say is: do the family photos. ;)
Here are some key tips for wedding family photos that'll help your to have them go smoothly:
1. Prepare a list
Jelger and I send a list to our couples before the wedding day, to make it easy for them to create the list. But because maybe you're reading this post and are not one of our clients, we'll share an example list below, which you can download in pdf here. No need to take every single shot on this list! You can pick and choose. :)
2. Best moment to schedule the photos
In most cases, the best moment to schedule the wedding day family photos is right after the ceremony simply because of logistics! Everyone is in one place, so make use of this opportunity. Ask your officiant to request family and friends to stick around for photos.
Alternatively if you are having a first look you can schedule the group photos before the ceremony. An additional advantage is that you can choose any off-site location for the family photos. However keep in mind that the bigger the group is, the harder it is to organize. So I recommend that you only get the smaller groups photographed at this time.
3. Tell your family in advance
It has happened (more than once) that family members quickly took off without knowing they were part of the family photos. Even when the officiant made an announcement! Especially if there's an open bar. ;) So take your precautions and tell everyone in advance they are required for the family photos. Regardless of how obvious it may seem (parents etc.).
4. Schedule enough time
Another common issue is underestimating the amount of time required for family photos. Not taking enough time will inevitably cause "less photo time elsewhere" or things starting to run late.
As a rule of thumb we calculate 2-3 min per photo combination. Even if there are 2 people in the photo and it will be faster, it will compensate other photos that take longer.
Last but not least for a HUGE group shot (30 and more people), take 5 minutes.
5. Have a helper (aka wrangler) who knows everyone
Your photographer(s) probably won't know who aunty Julia is. So if they're the one(s) trying to locate people, it'll take them much longer than f.e. your sister or... Ask a family member who knows most people to assist.
Additionally they can keep an eye on making things look their best (sunglasses taken off, purses are hidden and drink glasses put away).
6. Best location for your wedding day family photos
Often the wedding arch or backdrop of the ceremony is an obvious choice for the family photos. However, be prepared to change things up a bit, because when it comes to photos of big groups it's all about the light!
If we tell or clients "let's take them at that bush right there" instead of in front of your arch, we do so deliberately. Our main focus is how flattering the results look (avoiding people squinting into the sun) as well as have a backdrop that doesn't take away from you and your guests.
Finally make sure that people don't have to walk too far! Especially when there are elderly guests and/or children.
7. Have fun
Most important remember to have fun! Yes, there'll be quite a bit of smiling at the camera and it's a bit more formal than the rest of the day. But with these tips you will fly through the family photos smoothly.
And remember you're creating some history here: your children's grandchildren will see these wedding day family photos!
Vancouver backyard wedding: Elysa + Alex
When the weather is as cold as today, it's hard to imagine having a Vancouver backyard wedding. But past August, when we photographed this intimate day, it was crazy hot!!
Elysa and Alex flew in from Calgary to get married in Alex's childhood home. For Jelger and I it was the first time we photographed a backyard wedding in Vancouver. So special to get married in a place with all these memories attached to it! And of course it helps when the backyard is really lovely. ;)
Since the house was so close to Queen Elizabeth Park, the couple and bridal party photos were going to happen there to get some nature and greenery. However, the two of them were very much on board to photograph "QE Park that doesn't look like QE Park." Elysa mentioned that we didn't look like "fountain people", which made me instantly love her, haha. ;) So we got to skip the fountain's line-up and tourist crowds to explore the park. Yay!
I should add that their bridal party brought a great deal of crazy ambiance to the day, with some very creative posing. ;) You'll see. Love it when people just go all out in front of our camera's. Everything goes.
For the ceremony, Elysa and Alex had an officiant, but she wasn't talking the entire time. Instead, the ceremony was the moment when their parents and closest friends had their speech. How amazing is that! It made their ceremony incredibly personal.
The dancing at night in the open air was also very special. There's something magical about a hot Summer night where you can be outside, drinking cocktails and dancing with you closest group of friends. Also big props to them for having big cans of bug spray on the tables, yes please! (That's one of our outdoor wedding tips!)
Thanks so much for having us Elysa and Alex!
Vancouver backyard wedding vendors:
- Mua + hair: Prep Beauty Parlour (Mika)
- Catering: Nuba Restaurant
- Wedding dress: Truvelle via Pearl & Dot (Calgary)
- Bride accessories: Sara Gabriel and Cinder&Sage
- Flowers: the groom's mom!
Spanish Banks wedding: Chloe + Alex
Chloe and Alex had a unique idea: a Spanish banks wedding with only a select group of closest friends and family. The couple eloped on a Friday, enjoying a relaxed and intimate day and the next day they hosted a big reception. But the moment they exchanged their vows, they were witnessed by a small group.
From the moment we first talked, we learned it was all about the experience for them, which Jelger and I absolutely love! It's so easy to get tangled up in "all the things you're supposed to do". Instead stop and think about what you truly enjoy. Then choose to make that happen! Which is exactly what Chloe and Alex did!
The two of them got ready together and met us at Jericho Beach for photos. The sunny afternoon made the shoot all the more enjoyable, before we headed over to Spanish Banks West Extension for their wedding ceremony. Alex led Chloe out of the stretched limousine, and they walked down the aisle together. Speaking of which, I loved the aisle decorations: salt crystals, eucalyptus branches and beautiful flowers.
But the couple infused even more personality in their wedding: little sugar TIE fighters (Star Wars!) topped the wedding cupcakes. Kudos to them for making it fit in so elegantly! And last but not least, Chloe had her bridal dress custom designed!
After enjoying a long and sunny cocktail hour with their guests, we whisked the couple away for a few sunset photos on the beach. Finally, Chloe and Alex took off for their special private dinner! Chloe had told me Alex had arranged a few food surprises. Too bad we didn't find out what they were. Those were for only for the two of them!
Thank you so much guys for sharing the precious moments with us! Every time I walk by the spot of your wedding ceremony, I'll think of you. ;)
Spanish banks wedding vendors:
- Location: Spanish Banks West Extension
- Catering + planning: Design to Dine
- Dress designer: Custom Dress by Liza Diaz
- Florals: Granville Island Florist
- Makeup artist: Melanie Neufeld
- Hair stylist: Ashley Pilkey
- Restaurant private reception: Hawksworth Restaurant
Cecil Green Park house wedding: Jennifer + Leland
In April we had the pleasure of photographing Jennifer and Leland's Cecil Green Park House wedding! Not only are they amazing clients, but also our very good friends. And one of the best feelings EVER is to photograph a friend's wedding!
We've known Jennifer for a while now. Her big heart and sparkly personality made her join us on the board of A Wish To Wed Society. Her (now) hubby Leland is the perfect balance for Jennifer's energetic bubblyness. He's the calm, gentle force who's always cheered Jennifer on in all her endeavours. In more ways than one they remind me of Jelger and I. Whenever I'm off doing all kinds of crazy things, Jelger is there to support me. ;)
In daily life Jennifer has a full plate. On top of being a volunteer board member for the society, she runs her own event planning company, works at Grouse Mountain as wedding and event coordinator AND she recently joined Umbrella Events as lead planner. Can you tell she LOVES weddings?! :D For her own day she had an exact vision and managed to realize it perfectly to the last detail.
For the getting ready part, as usual, I stayed with the girls. I would describe my morning as "the perfect storm" of glitter, bubbles and a ton of laughter. At the same time Jelger was having a good time with the boys where it was all "chill and beers". I'm slightly obsessed with his "guys eating subway sandwich photo". ;) You'll see.
Next we moved to Hadden Park while dark clouds were packing over the city. The couple had opted to have a friend as their "officiant", who didn't have a licence to officiate weddings. ;) But instead, they had Shawn from Young, Hip & Married, help out. Right after their first look, Jennifer and Leland officially tied the knot during a short ceremony with a view on downtown Vancouver. I totally loved this: get married legally on the same day and have a full-on ceremony with a friend!
Meanwhile the clouds had reached the "seriously dramatic movie poster" stage (thank you sky) which made for epic wedding photos. Finally, everyone headed over to Cecil Green Park House for the 'official' wedding ceremony and reception.
Most hilarious moment was when the two of them quite literally raced to the bar right after their "ceremony". ;) And most romantic moment must have been their first dance. Last but not least, I had a blast working with so many befriended vendors at this wedding, especially Cristie, Tianna and Maria! (Check below the photos for more info.)
Thank you so much Jennifer and Leland for trusting us to capture your day! We can't wait to see what the future brings for you two and we feel honored to call you friends.
PS: Their wedding recently got featured on Pretty My Party, check it out here! Especially if you love tons of pretty details!
Cecil Green Park House wedding vendors:
- Event Planner: the ever fabulous Cristie from Umbrella Events
- Makeup Artis: Tianna Tran Makeup Artistry
- Hair Stylist: Cassie Wakeling
- Florals: Maria and team from Niche Event Stylists
- Location girls getting ready: Airbnb, this place!
- Cecil Green Park House wedding venue: Cecil Green Park House, British Columbia
- Bakery: Cadeaux Bakery
- Hair Stylist: Cassie Wakeling
- Equipment Rentals: Lonsdale Events
- Tuxedo and Mens’ Attire: Moores Clothing For Men //
- Wedding dress dress Designer: Morilee by Madeline Gardner
- Music: Vancouver DJ Company
- Officiant: Shawn from Young Hip and Married (for the official part)
Lindeman Lake hike: Fall is really happening
When we tried the Lindeman Lake hike a few weeks back, I was still a bit in denial: surely the weather is still warm. We've got some Summer left, right? Right?!?! (*insert panicky voice here*)
While online everyone started enthusiastically sharing pumpkin spice photos and mentioning sweaters and scarfs, I kept thinking about Summer dresses and sun on my skin. So when we were leaving for this hike, I almost didn't pack my jacket. Luckily Jelger, who keeps an eye on the survival basics, got it for me when we left.
And yes, it happened, it rained. We were all alone, in a wet forest, scrambling up the trail. And it wasn't as bad as I remembered. ;) The colder temperatures were pretty nice for hiking and I love being alone. When we arrived at the lake, there were plenty of adorable little squirrels. Apparently Jelger even had a fearless fluff ball run over his shoulder! (How did I not notice, aaargh, all the cuteness at once!!)
This hike was a beautiful reminder to embrace the change of seasons. Summer in our lives, is all about working hard and being on the go. Fall is a time to slow down and reflect. I can feel in my bones that I need a lot of rainy forest walks. :)
Back down at our car, we decided to take a quick peek at Chilliwack Lake, which is very close to the Lindeman Lake hike. It's so beautiful out there, I've already decided to go back for another hike! When driving home, I got a good scare. Suddenly I saw a flapping wing in the car's right mirror. I hardly knew what happened in that instant, I feared I had hit an owl. Even though I hadn't felt any bump, I was extremely upset and decided to turn the car around. Both of us scanned the environment and noticed the cutest barn owl sitting on a wire above the road. Almost as if it was making fun of us. And then it flew away. Pfew.
Lindeman Lake hike photos
Little photo tip here, the next two photos are taken a few second from each other, and no, this is not photoshop! ;) If you know a lake is green, get up higher and search for a different perspective! Your angle can create a big colour shift!
Chilliwack Lake
Law Court's Inn wedding: Fiona + Daniel
When Fiona and Daniel first told us about their Law Court's Inn wedding, we were truly surprised! After all these years in Vancouver, we had absolutely no idea that there was a BIG wedding venue above the Law Courts in the heart of downtown!
The two of them had many more surprises in store, though. ;) First of all, with their love for nature, they chose to get married in the beautiful West Vancouver Baptist church. With it's wooden structure and big windows, surrounded by forest, it felt a bit like being outside.
When going to the rehearsal, Daniel did a backward flip while walking down the aisle. We first thought: no way he's doing that in a suit?! But yep, he did!!! Most impressive walk down the aisle ever!
All this epicness was followed by one of the most emotional moments I've witnessed to date at a wedding. There wasn't a dry eye in the church when Daniel saw his bride for the first time walking down the aisle. Even Jelger had some dust in his eyes. ;) I should add that Fiona wore her mother's wedding dress and hat for the ceremony. Amazing that they got to share that with each other!
As it sometimes happens in Vancouver (and especially in April ;) ), the day of the wedding it was raining. However, this was no ordinary rain, it really was a total downpour! You know, when it kinda rains from the side and you know you'll get wet regardless? Luckily with a couple of umbrellas and thanks to the way the venue is built, we still got to take some photographs outside with a city backdrop.
It was clear that the entertainment of their guests was a high priority for Daniel and Fiona and the number of creative games that night was amazing! Just see for yourself. ;)
Thanks so much for having us guys! I'm sure our paths will cross again in future adventures!
Law Court's Inn wedding Vendors:
- Reception Venue: Law Courts Inn
- Ceremony: West Vancouver Baptist church
- Cake: Saint Germain Bakery
Mystery Lake hike and birthday bears
On the evening of my birthday (two days ago!), Jelger and I did the Mystery Lake hike. And you read that right, there were birthday bears. And no, that's not a spelling mistake!! ;)
After 6 years in Canada and NEVER seeing a bear, two beautiful big black bears slowly walked by. I don't have photos, because first I contemplated if I should walk away or not. By the time I enjoyed watching them and thought a photo was ok, I saw that big bear butt walking behind the bushes. ;)
I have a strange relationship with my birthday: often I'm working, so I kinda ignore it's my birthday. And I never know what gift I want or what I want to do. This time, I think I broke that spell! Well, Jelger did, he took good care of me. ;) When thinking about what I'd like to do most I realized it's simple: spend a little bit of time in nature with my man after all this computer work!
Mystery Lake Hike on Mt. Seymour was perfect: it's short (3km) and if you go around sunset on a weekday, there's nobody around! Well, except maybe some furry friends, big and small. ;)
Thinking about "what do I really like" and "what makes me happy" is not always easy. The answer is often simple: go outside, enjoy nature, take photos of random things in nature. (usually Jelger, haha) And yet, it's so easy to park myself in my chair and continue working. What's up with that!
So going into my next year, my focus will be: "what makes me happy". Because when I do what makes me happy, I become a better person altogether.
We are available for photoshoots all over the lower Mainland! If you're interested in joining us on a hike or if you want something a little different for your engagement photos, get in touch with us today! After exploring Vancouver's beautiful nature, we know a lot of great spots!
Sea to Sky Gondola wedding: Caroline + Spencer
I'm excited to share Caroline and Spencer's Sea to Sky Gondola wedding on the blog today! So, remember those hazy August days when our entire province was on fire?
On one of those days Caroline and Spencer got married! They travelled to Squamish all the way from South Carolina together with their family and friends. The two of them visited the Sea to Sky Gondola before while on vacation and they fell in love with the view. Even though the smoke from the fires definitely changed the scenery, they didn't let it spoil any of the fun!
Caroline walked down the long suspension bridge aisle by herself. Since they didn't have a first look, this is how Spencer saw her for the first time in her wedding dress. Starting of on an adventurous note right away. ;)
After a short and heartfelt ceremony, we explored the natural environment with these two. They were up for anything (including Caroline hiking in VERY high heels, hehe) and we loved their enthusiasm!
Following the shoot, it was time for the reception (and amazing food) at the Summit Lodge. I love how they put out scarves and fleece blankets for their friends and family to use. How adorable and considerate for your guests is that! After all, you are in the mountains where it can get chilly at night.
Caroline and Spencer, thanks again for having us guys! We feel honoured that you included us in your destination wedding.
PS: Big hug to Shawna from Sweetheart events for making everything run so smoothly. And another big bear hug to officiant Shawn from Young, Hip & Married who makes all his ceremonies so personal and beautiful.
Sea to Sky Gondola wedding vendors
- Wedding planner: Shawna from Sweetheart Events
- Venue: Sea to Sky Gondola
- Officiant: Shawn from Young, Hip & Married
- Makeup artist: Red Carpet Ready by Christina
- Florist: A fox in the flowers
- Feather bow tie: Brackish Bowties
- Bride's dress: Stella York
- Groom's suit: Men's wearhouse
- Hotel getting ready: Executive Suites Squamish
- Wedding pies (that's right! No cake!): Aphrodite's Café & Pie shop