Deep Cove engagement photos: Sharon + Karol
Sharon, Karol (and Irwin, their adorable Dachshund) invited us to Deep Cove for their engagement photos. And to make it even better, we met up at Honey's Doughnuts before the shoot! Irwin stole my heart right away (and a piece of donut when Sharon wasn't looking, hahaha). I absolutely loved that they included him in the first part of their shoot. And I'm already excited about his appearance at their wedding this August! ;)
Karol grew up in Deep Cove, so choosing it as the location for engagement photos made perfect sense! In my opinion it's always a good idea to go somewhere with special memories. :) I can't even imagine how different it must have been there all those years ago! Nowadays it's a popular place for hikers and tourists, but 20 years ago it sure was a more private gem.
And it wouldn't be Deep Cove without some surprise weather, because this spot truly has its own micro climate, nestled between the North shore mountains and Indian Arm inlet. During our shoot it suddenly poured rain! But only very briefly and at a convenient time. Just long enough to wash away the tourists from the pier so we could take some uninterrupted photos there, haha.
Speaking of micro climates: Sharon and Karol shared a beer during their shoot. They love local breweries and thought it fun to include beer and a growler! I'm all for that! ;) (both for beer and for bringing something personal to your shoot)
My absolute favourite moment of the day was when the two of them changed outfits on the street, hiding behind a little wooden panel from a children's clothing store. :P Definitely including that photo below. These two are SO FUNNY.
Sharon and Karol have planned the most epic party for their wedding day. I can't wait to see what they've come up with, I have no doubt it's going to be a ton of fun. ;)
Thanks for having us guys and I'm already waiting for August to arrive! :)
Deep Cove engagement photos
Are you excited to go on your own adventure? Get in touch here or if you're looking for inspiration, see more engagement shoots here.
How to plan your adventurous helicopter elopement
If you're considering a helicopter elopement or adventure, this post is for you. Over the past couple of years, Jelger and I had the pleasure of photographing a few adventurous helicopter elopements. Based on our experience, here are my best tips and recommendations on making the most of your helicopter adventure.
1. Expect the unexpected
Helicopter flights (and therefore your elopement) are extremely weather dependent, and in the mountains, the weather can change in a blink. Conditions like heavy rain, snow, local turbulence, wind, clouds, thunderstorm or fog can all be sufficient cause for a last-minute flight cancellation.
I myself experienced it a few years ago, when flying with a couple into the mountains of Pitt Meadows. When an unexpected blanket of fog crawled over the mountains, the pilot decided we needed to return right away (helicopter pilots fly by sight).
What is most important for you, is that you're aware of the weather factor when planning your helicopter elopement. Expect that anything can happen. Whether it's a different location for your wedding ceremony, or a flight cancellation. Additionally, you can plan ahead and choose several ceremony locations that you pick depending on the circumstances.
2. Ceremony practicalities
Number of people
The number of people that can be transported to your elopement is of course depending on the size of the helicopter. Some helicopters can only carry 5 people (the pilot, the two of you, the officiant and 1 photographer). While others have space for 6 or more. Definitely double check when you book your flight to make sure you don't have to leave one of your photographers behind! ;)
For a legal ceremony in BC, you require two witnesses, which in case of a 5 person flight, can be your pilot and your photographer.
What to bring
Every company has their own rules about the amount of weight the helicopter can carry. They'll ask you to provide body weight for yourself, your partner and all passengers. On top of that they need to know the weight of the photographer's gear and of the other items you're bringing.
Our clients love nature as a backdrop and don't bring much more than a bouquet and maybe a bottle of champagne to their helicopter elopement. But in case you're considering bringing other decor items, keep the weight/size requirements in mind!
Of course, make sure to bring your marriage certificate and wedding rings! Once you take off, there's no going back. ;)
Find more practical info on how to find your officiant and how to plan your elopement here.
3. Other practicalities for your helicopter elopement
Because you're in the mountains, we highly recommend you bring comfy shoes for your helicopter elopement! I'm always talking about shoes, haha. But for good reason: I've seen too many people suffer because of uncomfortable footwear. Remember that you can always change your hiking boots for dressed shoes once you're in your exact ceremony spot.
Bring a jacket. You'll be in the mountains. Even in Summer, it can be unexpectedly cold and windy. Stay comfortable for as long as possible and only brave the cold when you have to. There's no harm in taking off your jacket just before for the ceremony.
Bring an umbrella. Again, the mountains are unpredictable. The bluest sky can change into a clouds and rain within 10 minutes. It doesn't mean the helicopter needs to take off right away, you might even continue the elopement ceremony and photos. And you'll feel so much better not getting soaked.
Bring water. All my previous scenarios included the idea of terrible weather, lol, but in the Summer it can be HOT. Make sure you're staying well hydrated.
Bug spray (in Summer). You don't necessarily have to bring it, but it might be smart to give yourself a good spray before taking off. Depending on the location, there are areas in the alpine range where mosquitos and black flies are CRAZY. ;)
4. Recommended helicopter companies
I'm sure there are other great companies out there, but we've personally worked with the following three companies and feel comfortable recommending them.
Black Comb Helicopters
Although we've only flown in the Squamish region with them, apparently they have several other options for taking off from Whistler and Vancouver as well. It might be worth looking into the price differences about where to take off. When working with them we enjoyed the pilot's relaxed energy and his friendliness. Check out this elopement we photographed with Black Comb Helicopters.
Find their info here
Black Tusk Helicopters
Same as before, we've only worked with them leaving from Squamish, but they also can leave from other locations. When photographing an elopement with them, our clients were so happy with their services that they wanted a photo with pilot Darren. Here's an elopement we photographed thanks to Black Tusk Helicopters.
Find out more info about them here.
Sky Helicopters
Taking off in Pitt Meadows might be your best bet, but for an additional fee you can also choose a different location. I enjoyed working with them! (no space in the helicopter for Jelger, though, haha) ;) So make sure you check out the size of your chopper. I couldn't help myself, had to say chopper at some point. ;) Find their info here.
5. All-inclusive helicopter elopement vs plan your own
Some of the companies offer all-inclusive helicopter elopements. The advantage is that you don't have to plan anything: just show up and that's it. They supply everything from flight to photography, flowers, makeup artist etc. The tradeoff is that this formula allows less for customizing, and therefore can feel like a cookie-cutter experience, rather than your own unique one.
On the other hand if you prefer your own experience, it's more interesting to hire those vendors that fit your vision. It all depends on your priorities.
I hope you found this article helpful and if you'd like to read more planning tips, feel free to check out these posts!
Alexander Falls engagement photos: Jenn + Victor
After our recent explorations in Callaghan Country, we were excited to visit Alexander Falls again, this time for the engagement photos of Jenn and Victor! This adventurous duo was up for a drive to Whistler with us and having a shoot full of snowshoeing and playing in the snow!
Things started off with a challenge because Jenn's borrowed snowshoes had a broken strap. Uh-oh. Luckily we found out in the parking lot and not somewhere on the trail. Victor showed himself a true gentleman: he gave Jenn his snowshoes, and used a set of our rubber cleats instead! To our surprise, that was all the gear he needed for the entire hike.
As sometimes happens, the weather wasn't entirely what we'd expected, but in a good way! With predictions of freezing cold and even some snow, we were all prepared for intense circumstances. Instead, we enjoyed a sunny sky and (relatively) warm temperatures! Still, Jenn's little heating packages came in handy to keep her hands warm. :)
Alexander Falls
Of course, Alexander Falls were the highlight of the engagement photos! Unlike during our last visit a few months ago, the falls were almost entirely frozen. And they were HUGE! Despite the bright reflection of the sun on the ice, we still enjoyed them in all their winter glory. ;) It must be impossible to approach these falls in Summer in the same way. To get close enough, we had to walk close to the frozen river, which I can only imagine to be wild and gushing when melted.
At one point, in my enthusiasm of photographing, I plowed into the deep snow, and totally forgot about the cameras dangling on my hip belt. By the time I checked them, I'd scooped up a chunk of snow with my lenses hoods. Luckily, our gear can handle some beating and snow. Lol. Lesson learned: when wandering into deep snow, cover my gear. ;)
We spent the afternoon exploring the trail together and spotting beautiful pockets of light in the forest. The weather stayed clear, because the only snow fall we had to shelter from were the patches falling from tree branches. ;)
Jenn and Victor, thanks so much for joining us for this adventure! We loved how much you were game for anything and we had a great time! Looking forward to photographing your wedding in June!
Alexander Falls engagement photos
Looking for more inspiration on where to go for your engagement photos? Here are some amazing locations in Vancouver! And of course when you get in touch, we can help you with many more ideas. :)
Kennedy Falls hike in North Vancouver
Throwing it back to a gloomy November day, when we did the Kennedy Falls hike in North Vancouver. It's always exciting to try a new hike so close to home! And especially one that isn't insta-famous (yet, lol). Maybe the fact that you have to commit to 10km of ups and downs over roots, rocks and little creeks deters some of the crowds. ;)
Despite trying to break our habit, we left our place relatively late. If you're a regular reader, you already know we're "late hikers". Meaning we don't usually decide to go out until later in the day and often need our headlamps on the way back. This happens especially in Winter with its shorter days. But don't worry, we're always prepared with maps, lights etc.
One of the benefits of being a "late hiker" is that usually you only stumble upon hikers that are on their way back! ;) So in this case we had most of the trail to ourselves.
The forest surrounding the trail to Kennedy Falls is just magnificent!! Especially the big cedar on the trail (officially named "Big Cedar", lol) was extra impressive. Knowing that this tree has been there for several hundreds of years, creates a feeling of everything else being relative.
Another fun part was a steep slope with ropes. Not that you wouldn't be able to get down without them, but it'd be a tricky affaire. Added excitement: check! Since last year Jelger and I always bring our hiking poles and those have been amazing for steep slopes too! (Costco to the rescue ;) )
And last, but not least, we made it to Kennedy Falls! There are lower and upper falls, both beautiful and very approachable. I can only imagine how much fun it must be to come back in the Summer and cool down at the falls after that hike! (Way too cold for that in November ;) )
I hope you enjoyed reading about this hike and I can highly recommend you try it out! If you’d like some more hiking inspiration, check out this page! And if you're feeling extra adventurous for your engagement photos, get in touch with us! ;)
Big Cedar and Kennedy Falls hike
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Slight dramatization ;) -
How to plan your unplugged wedding
When you're planning your wedding, you've probably come across the term "unplugged" before. In case you're not familiar with it, it means not having guests take photographs during the wedding. Mostly when someone says "an unplugged wedding", they mean an "unplugged wedding ceremony". So no camera's, cellphones (or worse, IPads!) during the ceremony. Some couples go further and want other parts of their wedding day to be unplugged as well.
As a photographer who's photographed well over 200 weddings, I've seen numerous ceremonies being taken over by herds of guests with cellphones and cameras. This maybe sound a bit extreme, but depending on the crowd, some guests might even start walking around during the ceremony to “get the best angles.”
My goal for this post is to create awareness about what you can do to make sure your guest's phone enthusiasm doesn't interfere with your wedding.
Disclaimer: I'm purposefully not using our client's photos in this blog post. I don't want to shame any of our couples (or their guests) by using their wedding images to prove my point. Check out this blog if you want to see what can go wrong in photos.
1. Unplugged before the ceremony/getting ready
During the getting ready or before the ceremony, the excitement runs high. While it may seem obvious, it can take over and makes us forget what’s most obvious: the surprise. The wedding couple hasn’t seen each other in full wedding outfit yet, and have planned the moment they’d like to reveal themselves. A quick snap-in-the-moment social media share can be a sad and unintended end of the excitement. In the past, I’ve known bridesmaids or enthusiastic family members post photos of the stunning bride on their snapchat or insta stories, which the spouse discovered when browsing through their feed.
Preventing this is easy. Right before getting dressed, remind everyone not to share pictures online, until after the wedding ceremony. Of course selfies are still allowed (after all, they’re part of the fun), but just put an explicit “no posting policy” in place until the wedding couple has seen each other.
2. Unplugged wedding ceremony
Next is the wedding ceremony, which you may want to unplug for two reasons.
First, it keeps your guests present in the moment, and allows them to fully experience the heartfelt moments of your wedding ceremony. It’s easy to forget how hard it is to have a similarexperience when we’re looking at a phone or (gasp!) tablet. Of course it’s important to have photos and/or video of your wedding vows, but that’s why you’ve hired professionals.
Second, from a photographic point of view, an unplugged wedding looks considerably better in your photos. During the wedding ceremony, we also photograph the guests, especially the ones in the first row. Which means that if they are holding a camera in front of their face throughout the ceremony, that’s what we’ll photograph. Of course it’d be much nicer to portray them listening and reacting. Which brings us back to the use of unplugging your wedding ceremony.
To unplug your wedding ceremony, you can make use of these methods:
Set the expectations in advance
Talk to your family and friends long before the wedding day. Explain to them why you’d appreciate them to be fully present during the wedding ceremony. If needed, show them an example of what could happen otherwise (like this photo where the groom barely sees his bride).
If you know any of your family members or friends are avid camera enthusiasts, offer them the to take a few photos at the beginning of the ceremony, and then to put the camera/phone away.
Clear signage
Put up signs with your request for an unplugged wedding at the entrance to your ceremony. You can make it as explicit or subtle as you like, but I especially love the example below. It gets the message across perfectly. Etsy is a great source for printable designs and ready-made signs.
Note that people will not always pay attention to a sign or sometimes even choose to ignore it.
Official announcement
At the beginning of your wedding ceremony, have your officiant make the formal announcement of your unplugged wedding. You could even add that you’d love love to see your guests’ faces, rather than the back of of their phones. And of course that you’d want everyone to be present in the moment, together with you.
That one person
In my experience, despite your best efforts, there's a good chance there will be ‘the one person’ still taking photos. If that happens in your case, don’t feel upset about it. You did your best, and that’s more than enough. Your professional photographers can and will deal with it. Especially if said person is not in the front row.
3. Unplugged wedding reception
I've met couples that'd love for the entire day to be unplugged. To be honest, that’s asking a lot of your guests. Social media and phones are literally addictive. Some people start feeling physically uncomfortable after not using their phone for a while. Crazy, right? That said, if you’d like to unplug the reception, choose your method according to your motivation.
If it's about your privacy on social media, you can request people to refrain from taking photos of you. They can still take selfies in their fancy outfits, just not including you. ;)
If it’s because you prefer the first photo on your Facebook feed not to be one of you at the "final (drunk) hour of the reception", it’s easier to temporarily change your privacy settings on Facebook. You can set it to monitor and which tagged-with-you photos appear on your timeline and which don't.
Lastly, if you’d like to unplug your reception for any other reason, communicate this early and repeatedly. Put your intention on your invitations, then send out an email to your guests and have both your officiant and MC repeat it again. That said, know that your request may be too much to ask for some people. Know your guests and whether they can handle an entirely unplugged wedding day.
I hope these tips were helpful! Check out more wedding planning tips here! And don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about this post!
PS: Have fun with this video below! ;) I loved it on so many levels, lol. As a photographer I can relate to EVERYTHING that happens in it.
Buntzen Lake engagement photos: Helena + Steven
While we've photographed at Buntzen Lake before, this was our first time shooting engagement photos there! The fresh layer of snow that covered the entire park, made everything look extra special.
Helena and Steven are both geologists, which is so cool! I hardly know anything about this world, but it seems a fascinating intersection of history and biology. And how amazing that the two of them share this interest! Most of the time, both of them are working in the the Yukon’s vast nature.
It’s inspiring to talk with couples who live the lifestyle Jelger and I are working towards! Eventually we'll be out in nature somewhere in the North too (but not as far as the Yukon), with bouts of city visits. ;) Of course, we'll have to learn lots of the things that Steven and Helena have already accomplished. When distances are huge and "available help" isn't just a phone call away, you lead an entirely different lifestyle. But I digress, back to Buntzen Lake and the engagement photos. ;)
Buntzen Lake
Helena and Steven had picked Buntzen Lake as the B-plan for their engagement photos. Since snow had made plan A unreachable, Buntzen Lake is what we went with. But often the unexpected plans, are the most amazing ones!
People sometimes ask us if we don't get tired of shooting at the same (or similar) places, and I always tell them: no. When it comes to nature, the same locations look different every time. Often, it’ll even surprise you with unexpected elements. Like during this engagement shoot, where Buntzen Lake was partially frozen! Something I hadn’t seen yet.
The engagement shoot
The two of them were up for a little walk in the snow and we explored a short hike towards a bridge over the water. I loved the playful energy between to two of them, like when they climbed up on one of those big tree trunks. Couples who play together, stay together! You can quote me on that. ;)
After the forest, we plowed back through the snow towards Buntzen Lake. For the occasion, Helena had pulled out her Mukluks boots, which I loved! I’d been following the Mukluks website for a while. Seeing and hearing her experience of these amazing boots in action (a 2 hour shoot in the snow!) convinced me. I’ve bought myself a pair too, and I am over the moon! It’s like wearing warm slippers, so comfy. ;)
Helena and Steven, thanks for playing in the snow with us! You guys rock! Pun intended. ;)
Buntzen Lake engagement photos
17 great Vancouver engagement photo locations
I decided to write this post because a lot of couples are searching for the perfect engagement photo locations in the greater Vancouver area. In this post I'll only share locations that are in Vancouver, North Vancouver and West Vancouver. Of course there are many more options within driving distance of Vancouver, but that's for a future post.
Because we love nature and the outdoors, my recommendations for these engagement locations are focused on nature. Also make sure to read my personal pro’s and con’s for each location!
Table of contents
- 1. Stanley Park
- 2. Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks
- 3. UBC
- 4. Deep Cove
- 5. Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
- 6. Rice Lake
- 7. Lynn Canyon
- 8. Mount Seymour
- 9. Norvan Falls
- 10. Kennedy Falls
- 11. Cleveland Dam
- 12. Grouse Mountain
- 13. Lighthouse Park
- 14. Cypress Mountain
- 15. Cypress Falls
- 16. Whyte Lake
- 17. Whytecliff Park
- Other Vancouver engagement photo locations?
1. Stanley Park
Stanley Park is what I would consider "a Vancouver classic"! This park truly has it all: mountain backdrops in the North, lush rainforest and tall pine trees in addition of beautiful beaches. Therefore, if you are staying (or living) downtown, this location is extra convenient!
Scenery
- Forest, sand beach, rocks, mountain backdrops, city skyline, rose garden and cherry blossoms (limited time in April)
Pros
- easy to reach when staying/living in downtown Vancouver
- locations with a very different vibe despite being close to each other
Cons
- There is a lot of tourism. It's easier to avoid crowds in the forest areas, but on the beaches, you might have a large audience during the shoot. Weekdays are better, but still busy.
- Paid parking
2. Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks
These are two different locations, however they have a similar vibe. Therefore I'm mentioning them together. :)
Jericho Beach is closer to Vancouver, so you can see the city more dramatically in the background. The Jericho Beach Park also has beautiful willow trees.
Spanish Banks is usually less busy, because it's a bit further from the city, but has the same epic mountain backdrops behind the ocean.
Even further North is Acadia Beach, which has a rockier and narrower shore, but is equally gorgeous.
Scenery
- Jericho Beach: sand beach, mountain backdrop, city skyline, ocean pier, park and willow trees
- Spanish Banks: sand beach, mountain backdrop, city skyline and forest
- Acadia Beach: pebble beach, mountain backdrop, city skyline and forest
Pros
- Free parking
- A short drive from Vancouver and therefore easily accessible
Cons
- The further East you go, the busier it gets. We generally advise to chose a spot closer to UBC.
- It can get fairly windy on the beach, especially closer to UBC.
3. UBC
UBC is a fun engagement photo locations, especially for couples who studied in Vancouver and have special memories about the place. Acadia Beach is part of the UBC Endowment Lands, but there are plenty of other amazing locations, such as Wreck Beach (clothing optional, lol, but what a stunning shoreline and forest!), and of course Pacific Spirit Regional Park. You could even combine a visit to memory lane with a visit to nature! Have a look at some of our previous photo sessions at UBC.
Scenery
- unique architecture, big forests, several gardens, sand beach and pebble beach
Pros
- A lot of different looking locations close to each other
- Most of the time it's not too busy, which would otherwise interfere with your engagement shoot
Cons
- To reach some of the beaches (for instance Wreck Beach), it can be a long hike down, so be prepared to feel the burn. ;)
- Some gardens are paid access: UBC Botanical Garden and the Nitobe gardens.
- Paid parking in some locations (but not everywhere)
4. Deep Cove
Deep Cove in North Vancouver is a unique place with its small harbour and surrounding mountains, in other words it's perfect for photos! The nearby Cates Park offers beach and beautiful photo options. While it might not be an obvious engagement photo location for someone visiting Vancouver, it's often a places filled with memories for locals.
Scenery
- harbour, pebble beach, willow tree, forest, mountain backdrop
Pros
- Locations with different vibes that are close to each other
- Since Deep Cove is a tiny village, everything is close by, including the amazing cafes that could be a perfect finish for your shoot.
- You could rent a kayak or paddle board in addition to less active activities for your shoot! ;)
Cons
- Some of the Deep Cove locations, such as Quarry Rock, we no longer recommend because it’s always busy (including daytime on weekdays)
- Limited parking (especially in Summer, you might have to park quite far)
5. Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
We've only explored parts of this location, but the forest is truly a Pacific Northwest nature lover's dream. The access spots to the Seymour river give you an option for a diverse look. Additionally there's even a new and cool looking suspension bridge! Keep in mind that there is some hiking involved at this location, but no long distances are needed to reach beautiful spots.
Scenery
- forest, river and suspension bridge
Pros
- Because it's mostly popular with locals, there's less of a crowd.
Cons
- The access road closes at night (and the times vary throughout the time of year). Definitely check the closing time beforehand (it’s posted on the signs at the entrance to the park) so you don’t get locked in!
6. Rice Lake
Rice Lake is technically a part of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, but deserves its own spot. The path towards the lake has unique forest views and the lake itself often sports an amazing reflection. Not to mention how gorgeous the location becomes when it's foggy (which happens a lot, but of course you can't predict it!) This is an easy 3-4 km hike. You can access Rice Lake from two parking lots. Keep in mind that one of them closes at night! Check out some photos from our hike a few years ago.
Scenery
- forest, lake, 1 point with mountain views (when not foggy)
Pros
- Easy access
- Busier during weekends, but definitely not as touristy as nearby Lynn Canyon
Cons
- One of the parking lots closes at night, but there's an option to park a bit further so you won’t have to rush
- There are often anglers at the wooden bridge on the Lake, so limited photo options at that point
7. Lynn Canyon
Lynn Canyon is definitely a classic engagement shoot location in North Vancouver! Its unique, photogenic and free suspension bridge draws thousands of tourists every year. In addition to this park being free, unlike at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, you can actually get a photo on the bridge all by yourself if you're patient. ;) When you continue the trail a bit further and discover the beautiful river views and spectacular fern fields.
Scenery
- suspension bridge, river, forest (with lots of moss and ferns), rocks, green water pool
Pros
- Unique views within close driving distance of the city
- The suspension bridge is only a few minutes away from the parking lot
Cons
- Lynn Canyon is a popular location and often unpredictable on how busy it'll be. On a weekday, you might get lucky or not, but on a weekend I’d advise against this location for your engagement shoot.
- Keep an eye on the closing time of the park, so you don’t get locked into the parking lot.
8. Mount Seymour
Mount Seymour offers a ton of amazing shooting options (with different hiking levels), but for this post, I’ll put them all under 1 title.
One of my favourite spots is Dog Mountain, which is both in Summer and Winter a gorgeous 2-hour hike (round trip) with epic mountain views and a beautiful forest. Expect snow in Winter, so bring snowshoes or crampons.
Another gorgeous spot is Mystery Lake, which is only accessible after the ski season (late Spring to early Fall). After a hike with some elevation, you’ll find stunning lake reflections.
And last, but not least, if you're up for an epic hike (a rather intense 7 km round trip ;)). Like Dog Mountain, you can hike all the way up the mountain, and stop at the first peak (Pump Peak, see it here in Summer and in Winter) or continue on to the second (Tim Jones Peak) and third peak (Mount Seymour)! The 360 degree views are out of this world and totally worth the effort!
One thing is for sure: if you're not willing to hike for your engagement photos in the first place, Mount Seymour is not your location. The locations close to the parking lot are unfortunately less photogenic.
Scenery
- Epic mountain vistas, forest, rocks and lakes (depending on the route)
Pros
- It's an adventure
- Free parking
Cons
- Depending on how far you want to go, some hikes might be too intense
- Mosquitos and black flies in Spring, Summer and Fall (bug spray to the rescue!)
- Dog Mountain can be very popular, so I highly recommend you go there on weekdays. The other locations are usually less busy, including on weekends.
- Sometimes the weather, such as fog takes away any view of the surroundings.
- In Winter, the road up Mount Seymour requires snow tires without a doubt. But if you’re booking your engagement shoot with us, we can always give you a ride :)!
9. Norvan Falls
Norvan Falls is a 14 km hike in North Vancouver. Before you get too intimidated by the idea: there's not a lot of elevation gain. While it's still a long distance, the trail itself is not too demanding. It's been some time since we visited this location, but I do remember there was quite a bit of mud, even in Summer, so bringing good hiking boots is crucial! If you pick this location for your engagement shoot, you can expect a cool suspension bridge near the waterfalls. Norvan Falls is also one of the few "waterfall hikes" that offers mountain vistas along the way!
Scenery
- forest, mountain backdrop, waterfall, suspension bridge
Pros
- Not as busy, because of the distance (especially on weekdays)
Cons
- Long hike (14 km round trip)
10. Kennedy Falls
We recently tried this 10 km hike for the first time and it's absolutely stunning out there! The forest is extremely wild with a giant cedar tree and epic falls to reward you at the end. That said, it is a shoot for fit people! We'll probably be huffing and puffing with our gear at the end. ;)
Scenery
- wild forest, giant cedar, steep creeks, rocks, big waterfall
Pros
- Not busy at all
Cons
- Intense hike (10 km round trip), so only if you're up for it!
- Parking is fairly limited and shared with the visitors of the nearby mountain bike trails. Therefore if it's full, you might have to hike an extra kilometre.
11. Cleveland Dam
It's no surprise that Cleveland Dam is a popular little pit stop in North Vancouver! Some couples even chose this spot for their wedding ceremony! The mountains in the background are gorgeous and additionally there are several trails close-by with beautiful forest and ferns. If you're up for a little hike, you could explore the forest around the salmon hatchery. But you could also drive down there if you don’t feel like walking :)
Scenery
- mountain backdrop, forest, ferns, river (if you go down to the hatchery area)
Pros
- easy to reach from the city
- free parking
Cons
- popular at all times, so some patience might be needed for photos with the mountains in the background
- there's no lake access (the lake holds the drinking water supply for the city), so you can only admire it from afar!
12. Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is beautiful here in both Summer and Winter, although I have to confess I have a soft spot for the Winter views! There's a beautiful forest hike with lights in the snow. And around Christmas there's even a reindeer up there (not sure how it'd photograph that scene, I might get distracted by their cuteness! :)) Another perk in summer is that you can go on a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain for some epic vistas!
Scenery
- guaranteed snow in Winter, lights walk in Winter, year-round mountain views (the higher, the more epic), a little forest
Pros
- No far hiking needed for the views
Cons
- paid parking + paid sky tram ride, therefore an added cost for 4 people
- extremely busy on weekends (especially in Summer when there are weddings happening)
13. Lighthouse Park
Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver has always been one of our favourite engagement photo locations. It has a lot to offer! And we're not the only ones who like this diverse environment. That said, it is possible to avoid the crowds by choosing one of the alternative trails rather than the main one, and by choosing when to go.
Scenery
- Lighthouse, ocean, rocks, forest, mountain background (only on the West side of the park)
Pros
- No far hiking needed for a diverse range of views
- Options for some privacy in the forest
Cons
- the beach areas are busy, especially in Summer
14. Cypress Mountain
This mountain has so much to offer! While there are several trails on the mountain that are gorgeous, my favourite option is the trail to Bowen Lookout. The trail is an easy 4 km roundtrip. In Winter you’ll walk trough a "Narnia-like forest" and in Summer the environment offers both woods and "alpine meadow". Expect some other hikers at the Bowen Lookout point. But of the entire hike, it’d be the only location where other hikers are "too close". ;)
Scenery
- guaranteed snow in winter, additionally stunning snowy forest in winter, different mountain views, alpine meadow in Summer, Grey Jays (aka ‘Whiskey Jacks’) if you're lucky!
Pros
- not busy for most of the trail (exception is Bowen Lookout point)
- diverse views
Cons
- the parking lot closes at a certain time (but you can park outside of the gate, allowing you to return whenever you like without getting locked in)
- expect an audience at the Bowen Lookout point
15. Cypress Falls
We first learned about Cypress Falls Park in West Vancouver, through a very adventurous couple. This hidden gem is nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood. The main trail leads to a lookout point over the falls. And unfortunately this is the only way to view them, because they are WAY too wild and dangerous to approach from the bottom.
If you feel brave enough to venture off the trail, there’s an unofficial (and unmarked) rock climbers route. It leads down to the giant canyon, where we did the shoot with our clients. It was only thanks to their experience and guidance we were able to get there.
Could you go into the canyon? Yes, with a but. Only with plenty of preparation and knowledge about this kind of environment. There’s a reason the unofficial trail is only used by experienced mountain climbers.
That said, the rest of this park is pretty awesome too! It has amazing forest views (Jurassic Park, seriously) and you can approach the river from higher up the trail.
Scenery
- wild forest, rocks, wooden bridge, river access
Pros
- Mostly popular with locals, so not busy
Cons
- It can be a confusing park, don't get lost!
16. Whyte Lake
The easy 6 km Whyte Lake hike, is another hidden gem in West Vancouver. While I'm actually not overly impressed by the lake itself (how spoiled am I! ;) ), the hike up there has a stunning forest! I'd highly recommend this location if you love green forest and privacy. It's also accessible year-round.
Scenery
- wild forest, rocks, wooden bridge, lake, adorable outhouse (lol)
Pros
- Not busy on the trail (maybe a couple of people at the lake)
Cons
- Very small parking lot (could be a problem on Summer weekends)
17. Whytecliff Park
And last, but definitely not least, one of the most favourite Vancouver engagement photo locations: Whytecliff Park. This place is truly a photographer's dream with its mysterious tiny island (or peninsula, depending on the tide), the ocean and mountain backdrops.
While this is a stunning location, I recommend you only go here if you're ok with crowds and not being the only person having a photo shoot. Planning your engagement shoot at sunrise would be an option to avoid the issue.
And if you’re set on going to the island, make sure to check the tide tables, so you don’t get locked in by the ocean.
Scenery
- ocean island, pebble beach, ocean, mountain backdrop, rocks, driftwood, limited forest
Pros
- the unique views (I don't know of any other place like this!)
- everything within a very close walking distance
Cons
- Extremely busy all year long
Wow, you've made it all the way to the end! I hope this post inspired you and that you're excited to try one of these Vancouver engagement photo locations! Do you want to explore with the two of us? Feel free to get in touch!
Other Vancouver engagement photo locations?
For even more inspiration for your engagement shoot location, check out our hiking inspiration page. You can always email us for a more personalized experience (I always have a new location that I'd love to try!) Or let us know about great outdoor location we should check and add to this list! We'd love to hear your thoughts! Even after 7 years of living in Vancouver, we discover new locations all the time.
PS: Check out these 30 elopement locations if you're already in the next phase of your planning!
Buntzen Lake elopement: Jocelyn + Jeremy
Jocelyn and Jeremy's Buntzen Lake elopement was our first wedding shoot in 2019! And what a great way to set the tone for this year. ;) The two of them started their day with a heartfelt church ceremony, witnessed by a small group of their closest family members, their beautiful little girl and their friends.
I want to especially thank Jeremy for allowing me to share a personal topic in this post. Four years ago (almost to the day of the wedding) Jeremy’s mom passed away. To honor her presence, the two of them brought her photograph, so she could still be present at the wedding ceremony, and in a few couple of the family photos.
As a wedding photographer I've often witnessed how after a loved one has passed on, they're not mentioned or (visually) represented at all during the wedding. Seeing how beautifully Jeremy's mom's memory was fully included, touched me deeply. So when you're reading this blog post and you've yet to plan your wedding, take a moment and consider the option.
After the wedding ceremony, everyone went for a festive lunch. The couple had even brought a wedding cake!
Next we finished their elopement with the portrait shoot at Buntzen Lake. A perfect spot, because the two of them love the outdoors. On top of that, a spectacular blanket of sunlight lit up the mountain at the end of the shoot. I've never seen anything like it!
And when I mentioned they love nature, I meant LOVE. Jocelyn told us about some of the hikes she used to do and all I can think is: Jelger and I need to seriously to up our game, haha. We haven't done any overnight trips without car camping yet! But our tent is ready and waiting for the coming year!
Jocelyn and Jeremy, thank you so much for making us a part of your day!
Buntzen Lake elopement vendors:
- Officiant: Father Scott at the St. Clare of Assisi church in Coquitlam
- Lunch venue: The Boathouse Restaurant in Port Moody
- Couple photos: Buntzen Lake
- Florist: Elderberry Floral
- Makeup artist and hair stylist: Reeva at Peyton Reign Beauty
- Cake designer: Danica at Busy Moms cooking
- Bridal dress: Blush Fashion boutique
Are you planning an elopement at Buntzen Lake or somewhere else in Vancouver or the Lower Mainland? Start here with the following practical tips. Or check out some of our couple's stories for more inspiration!
Walking down the aisle: more than one way to do it
We are so used to certain wedding traditions, such as walking down the aisle, that we don't even question them. I definitely didn't think twice about the aisle walking until being in the wedding industry for a while and having photographed weddings with a different take on the aisle concept!
Every scenario listed below is applicable to both heterosexual and LGBTQ+ couples. :)
1. Traditional: walking down the aisle with dad
In "the old days" the idea stood that as a bride you were your father's property. At the altar he would ‘hand you over’ to your spouse. Nowadays the tradition has become a symbol for saying goodbye to your family, and starting a family of your own. For many brides this is an important part of the experience, making this concept a popular choice. And even though I say brides, grooms can of course opt in too, if they have a significant bond with their dad!
But what if you aren't as close with your dad? Or what if your father is no longer around? What if you don't enjoy the feeling of being "given away"? Know that you can do anything. We're long passed the days where tradition is a must. Which is why’ll have a look at the next options.
2. Walking down the aisle with mom
If you’re closer to your mother than your father, why not include her in this tradition? It doesn’t have to be reserved to situations where the dad has passed away. So whether you’re a bride or groom, walk down that aisle alongside mom, and make your day memorable.
3. Walking down the aisle with both parents
The first time I saw a groom and his bride walk down the aisle with both their respective parents, I was over the moon! You’ve got the best of everything. The symbolism is there and it extends to both your parents. You had two parents raising you, making both equally important. So why not include this in your wedding ceremony?
4. Walking down the aisle as a couple
From time to time, I’ve experienced the wedding couple walking in together! And when I think about it, all I can say is: “hell yeah”! Getting married is a big step in life. So why not do it together? Whether you don't enjoy the idea of "being giving away", or want to celebrate the bond with your spouse, walking in as a couple is beautiful option.
5. Walking down the aisle alone
Own it, and walk that aisle all by yourself! ;) If for whatever reason you prefer no companion at all, this is your best bet. One bride I've witnessed chose this option to honour her passed away dad. Another bride walked down the aisle alone, just because. Not to mention, grooms do it all the time. ;)
6. With anyone, and in any way you like
Never feel limited because of what you've seen online or at a friend's wedding. If there's someone special in your life and you’d like them to accompany you, go for it. Whether it’s your neighbor, your BFF or your dog: do it! It's your wedding day, full of moments you'll remember, so make them count!
And while we’re breaking the mould, how about you get creative and change up the “walking” part: dance, skip, do silly walks, sing! Anything is an option!
7. Skip the aisle altogether
If you don't like the idea of a walking down a long open space, with all eyes on you, skip the aisle altogether. No one said you have to have one! Some couples "just start" the ceremony, without any kind of formal walk. Instead they simply show up in the front, for instance from the sides. Others form a "circular ceremony" by having their guests surround them in a (semi)circle.
Make it your conscious choice
I hope this blog post inspires you to think about the (not) walking down the aisle part of your wedding day. There are infinite options to change the format and look of your wedding ceremony. Whether to have an aisle or not, the shape of it, who does or does not accompany you there and in what style of movement, make the choice consciously yours. And as always: don't forget to have fun!
Bucerias Mexico: doing nothing
Our little trip to Bucerias in Mexico already seems so long ago! But it's only been 3 months, since we photographed Mel and Brett's wedding there. Thanks to this duo, Jelger and I enjoyed a short vacation after the wedding. Here are my thoughts about our little getaway. Can you tell it's Winter, since I have time to share something other than wedding photos? ;)
Few things beat getting on an airplane while it's pouring rain outside and you know when you're getting off, you'll be floating around in warm air, feeling super comfortable. ;) Don't get me wrong, I love experiencing Winter and I actually believe it's important to have different seasons. But I still feel happiest in a sunny environment, wearing not too many clothes. :P
So Bucerias presented itself as the perfect mini escape from the Vancouver wetness. After photographing the wedding, all we did was "nothing". :P We ate (a lot), loafed around and enjoyed too many tequilas and cocktails at the bar.
I have this theory that we would actually need 2 vacations after our busy wedding season: one to just do nothing at all. And then a second one to explore and go on adventures. ;) In this case, it was definitely a "do nothing" trip.
Which leads me to what I actually wanted to talk to you about: I find it extremely hard to do nothing.
Doing nothing is hard
And yet it's so important! In my opinion one of the biggest risks of having our own business is the feeling of email urgency and having to be connected at all times. It's obviously not ok to just leave your clients hanging. But it's also perfectly possible to create an auto-reply and to check in for 30 minutes in the morning. And than unplug for the rest of the day.
Luckily in our hotel in Bucerias, the limited internet access helped. ;) Thinking of it, I noticed that a lot of the tourists flocked together to the wifi hotspot and that several people stayed there for long bouts of time. Isn't it scary how much we've become attached to our phones and the internet? It goes beyond being connected with our business. I think it's hard for everyone.
I've talked about this numerous times with Jelger, who is much better at staying offline than I am. He told me people are no longer able to simply do nothing. That every "dead" moment needs to be filled with impulse or distraction (such as entertaining your brain by tapping on things on your phone) instead of "just being".
So while I struggled doing nothing, I did create some mindful moments. My favourite time was at night when we looked at the big dark ocean and walked on the beach. Each crashing wave was a surprise. Would it be a big or a small one, would it splash on my feet or not and would it be loud or calm?
Now, a couple of months after, I still try to create moments of nothingness. To sit still, and even try and allow myself to feel bored (gasp!) It's a long process, but I'm sure in the end it will be a very rewarding one. ;) If you have any tips to share, I'd gladly hear them! And for now, enjoy our Bucerias vacation photos! <3
Bucerias photos
North Vancouver elopement: Majesta + Byron
Majesta and Byron invited us to be a part of their elopement in Thistledown House in North Vancouver. We were extra surprised to find out about this location, as we visited the area several times in the past (both for photos and for hikes) and we'd never heard of the Thistledown House! Yay for discovering new places!
Because of all their family and friends live elsewhere, they opted for an intimate ceremony with both sets of parents, officiated by Byron's good friend. But despite the elopement taking place in North Vancouver, their friends and family got crafty! Byron's dad live streamed the ceremony to the couple's loved ones, who for the occasion had gathered in a home cinema! How cool is that! :D
First of all, I have to say I'm beyond impressed with Majesta and Byron and the way they approached their wedding. The two of them had different plans at first but circumstances urged them to make some adjustments, resulting in Vancouver as their elopement location. It's not easy when you have a vision for your day, to have to let it go and adjust, but they tackled the challenge head on!
On top of the changed plans, the weather turned out extremely uncooperative. Calling the precipitation of that day rain, would be an understatement. This was a full-on “open the floodgates” situation ;). But nothing would interfere with Majesta and Byron’s vision for an outside elopement wedding in North Vancouver. They popped open a set of umbrellas and stepped right into the downpour, all the while laughing out loud. It warmed my heart so much, and made me forget about the cold water trickling down my back, lol.
Luckily the rain stopped by the time we went out to take their couple portraits! Pfew! Instead, we got to enjoy stunning, foggy views at Cleveland Dam. Not only are the mountain and lake views epic, but how lush is the forest there!!! That's the amazing part of Winter in the Pacific North West! It's always green!
Majesta and Byron, thank you so much for having us photograph your elopement wedding! You guys are of to an amazing start and I'm hoping you're having a great transition into your new lives way up North! :D
North Vancouver elopement vendors:
- Wedding ceremony location: the garden of Thistledown House
- Wedding officiant: Ben Kirlik
- Portrait location: Cleveland Dam
- Wedding dress: BHLDN (Anthropologie)
- Grooms' suit: Calvin Klein
What is candid wedding photography?
We often hear the term "candid wedding photography", but what does it mean? For photographers ‘candid’ means that the subject in the photo is not looking straight into the camera. But that's very simply put. In my opinion, when it comes to wedding photography, there are several levels of ‘candid’. Which lead me to writing this blog post.
1. Documentary style: as candid as it gets
The first level of candid wedding photography is documentary style. It is also referred to as photo journalism. A documentary photographer is someone who's strictly there as an observer. They will show the wedding events exactly as they are happening.
I'm simplifying the term a little bit, because documentary style can go far in terms of "documenting things as they are". Including photographers who opt for lenses that are close to what the human eye sees. Others will go even further by never cropping or altering the content of a photo in post production. That said, when wedding photographers use the term documentary or photo-journalistic, they usually mean a hands-off approach and no manipulating of the content in photos afterwards (such as changing people's appearance or removing objects).
Some wedding photographers document an entire wedding day like this. They’ll skip on the formal portraits and instead photograph the wedding couple mingling with their guests and having a good time. Other photographers apply the documentary style during select parts of the day.
Jelger and I won't interfere with anything during the ceremony. We're flies on the wall. But during other parts of the day, we'll intervene to make a scene look better. For example: we remove clutter or a piece of furniture when it makes the photo stronger.
2. Candid with a nudge
This is certainly not an official term, haha, but it's the kind of candid that I like and it describes it best! For me this comes into play in two different scenarios.
The portraits
While a lot of couples love photos that have that unposed feel to them, they are a little nervous about having their photo taken. And because they're not professional models, they don't know what to do in order to look their best. It's also not their job to know this, that's why they hire a professional wedding photographer!
Jelger and I love to start our clients off in a certain pose or setting and from there give them a task or activity to do. For instance, we’ll tell them a subject to talk about, or have them do a movement. That way they forget all about the photos and we do get those real candid moments. But we got there with a little nudge. ;)
The rest of the day
I'm personally not a fan of looking at a wedding day as one big staged photo shoot. However, the same nudge can work wonders in terms of "lets move you getting ready over here" because the light is better. It doesn't interfere with your experience, but improves the look of your photos significantly!
3. Posed candid
Some photographers are masters at making posed photos look 100% candid.
To achieve this result, the photographer will tell direct you in every step towards the results. They’ll tell exactly what to do, where to look and how to move your body. It’s a very hands-on approach, which means the experience will be entirely different from the previous nudged candid. There’s nothing spontaneous about posed candid photos.
It's important to chat with your photographer about how they work! If you know you want someone who is very hands-on and directs you in every little step, this is them! But when the experience and the actually "living those moments" matters, you might want to find someone who's more of a nudger. :)
4. Candid that isn't candid
"Candid" is a common term in wedding photography. Some photographers just use it on their website, because it’s a popular search term in combination with wedding photography, even if their photography has an obviously posed look. When you're browsing through a wedding portfolio and everyone in the photos is looking at the camera in all the shots, that's definitely not candid photography.
Whatever the style of wedding photography or level of candidness you decide to go with, let your gut be your guide. If you like it, go for it! ;) And have fun!
If you'd like more info about how we photograph our couples, don't hesitate to get in touch!
Are you looking for a little planning help for your elopement? Check out our wedding planning tips here or our elopement planning tips here.
Our Callaghan Country snowshoe adventures
Friends recently introduced us to Callaghan Country in Whistler for a snowshoe trip! The first thing I always do when I hear about a new place is to google it! And the looks of Alexander Falls in Winter impressed me. Little did I know that it'd turn out to be a little more complicated to actually hike to them!
On December 24th, we received a warning that the trail to the falls wasn't accessible. The river hadn’t frozen shut sufficiently and the amount of water made the trail too dangerous to cross. So instead of heading for Alexander Falls, we chose a different snowshoe trail. Although hiking with friends guarantees a good time, our chosen trail (the Real Life trail) turned out fairly monotonous. It looked more like a cross-country skiing trail. And offered no outlooks on the scenery (the forest was beautiful of course). On top of that, the connector to Finger Lakes trail which would loop us back to the parking lot proved impossible to find. Our group (and other hikers we encountered) had to return the same way we came.
So I decided to email the Callaghan Country snowshoe company and tell them about the lack of online communication about the trail conditions. Long story short, we received a set of complimentary tickets. Together with a promise that the trail to the falls was definitely open.
Second try
I was excited to go back with Jelger and to finally find the bottom of Alexander Falls! That said, there’s also a nearby (free) viewing platform next to the road. So if you're not in the mood for a hike, you could just hop out of your car and admire the falls from there haha.
The two of us drove back on January 7th. We chatted with the manager of the snowshoe part of the park when we arrived. He informed us that the staff in the little shed at the entry booth is not part of their organization. She must have given us incorrect information. Because apparently they don't know about the actual snowshoeing conditions, because the snowshoe trails are never closed off (ehm, ok?!). So if you plan on going, make sure to ignore the advice from the entry booth and ask the staff at the guest service cabin next the parking lot about the trail conditions.
Alexander Falls in Callaghan Country
However, things got weirder. Once we finally arrived at the trail section that splits off towards the falls, we stumbled upon a sign that clearly stated "Alexander Falls Trail closed due to poor snow conditions". But given our conversation with the manager who assured us safe passage to the falls, we decided to ignore the sign and venture on. Rest assured, we didn't take unnecessary risks. There was only a steep but short descent down a slope, which took us hardly any effort to complete. So I can only assume the organization must have forgotten to remove the sign, lol.
All that said, Alexander Falls was absolutely worth the hassle! What a gigantic waterfall, and such impressive canyon rock walls on both sides. The snow muffled all other sounds and you could only hear the roaring water. We had fun playing in the snow and of course there was time for a mandatory selfie. This time, Jelger carried our tripod, hehe. Usually we find "natural tripods" like rocks or even our backpacks, but since cameras and wet snow don't mix well, I decided to play it safe. ;)
Snowshoeing tip: wool is your friend
On a totally different note, an important lesson I learned this year while snowshoeing: wear merino wool base layers! I used to dismiss the concept because of the price point thinking "how much difference can fabric really make?". But after suffering from mild hypothermia a few times last year and stumbling upon a great sale at Costco, I decided to give it a go. And I must say, the difference it makes is HUGE. We're currently in the middle of planning a trip to a colder area in the middle of British Columbia with lots of hiking and I know I'll be perfectly fine. :)
I hope you enjoyed this post! If you're inspired to try snowshoeing, there are lots of amazing (and free!) trails in North Vancouver. And if you're excited enough about waterfalls, Alexander Falls trail is a relatively short trail that you can easily fit in a lazy afternoon. Which is great if you're not a morning person (like us), lol. Jelger and I left in Vancouver around 10:30 am and had plenty of time to drive to Callaghan country and finish the hike before sunset.
Callaghan Country snowshoe photos
Want to join us on an adventure in Callaghan Country? Get in touch and let's shoot together!
Bucerias Mexico wedding: Mel + Brett
Mel and Brett hosted their wedding in the gorgeous Villa Encanto in Bucerias Mexico. You know how sometimes you come across photographs of the perfect tropical Summer night dinner, and part of you thinks: how is that real life? That feeling definitely creeped up on me on Mel and Brett's day! ;) Although, maybe that's just me spending too much time looking at travel photographs, lol.
Jelger and I left Vancouver on a typical wet November morning, to catch our flight to Puerto Vallarta. Don't you love it when the weather is horrible when you fly out to a hot and sunny location? *insert evil laughter* We arrived in Bucerias (where the wedding would take place) after dark, but still in time for (lots of) food at the hotel. Right away I loved the tropical temperatures! The next two days went by quickly, with getting to know the area, scouting out some unique spots for Mel and Brett's wedding and a beautiful rehearsal the day before.
Mel and Brett planned their wedding in Bucerias, because they’re so familiar with the town. Mel's parents own a condo there, making it couple’s perfect Winter holiday destination. The two of them created a wedding website with tips for of things to do and local places to check for food. We loved it! (especially the food!) Additionally, they packed the week of the wedding full of activities and events for their guests, including dinners and pool party etc. So fun! It was definitely more than a 1-day experience! But I digress, back to the wedding! ;)
The wedding day in Bucerias
The morning of the wedding started with Mel, her girls and her mom in the beauty salon one block away from the villa. Airco, mimosas, snacks, pampering and great company: best way to start the day. Although the guy's morning with drinks by (and in) the pool also looked amazing. Lol.
After the getting ready part, everyone gathered at the beautiful Villa Encanto. The entire place looked like something straight from a magazine. I loved all the little details in the rooms and the gorgeous tropical garden! Speaking of tropical garden, the flowers arrangements for the wedding were all created on the spot! Honestely, I've never seen anything like it in Vancouver! So if you’re considering to organize your destination wedding in Puerto Vallarta, consider Villa Encanto in Bucerias. You won’t regret it :).
The flower crowns, the bouquets and the centre pieces were all made a few hours before the wedding. They were so fresh and gorgeous! Disclaimer, I'm usually not writing about flowers and details on our blog. But these ones grabbed my attention!
Mel and Brett didn't see each other before the ceremony. So Mel walking down the aisle with her dad was an extra special moment for the two of them. I loved their entire ceremony, including their choice of adding a sand ceremony. I may have also been internally squealing with joy about the gorgeous light that was happening, haha, photographers do that.
After the ceremony it was time for portraits. Mel and Brett had requested to take their wedding photos in the streets of Bucerias. And my oh my, as it often happens, my favourite spot was a less obvious location. I mean, of course the beach is gorgeous, but there was so much character in the streets! I fell totally in love with a giant tree and the colourful buildings. And, of course, also with Mel and Brett's wedding party, what a fun bunch! :D
By the time we finished the portrait shoot, the sun had set and it was time for speeches and partying! And partying they did! A sparkler exit led them from the garden to the beach, straight into their first dance, followed by full-on fireworks. Dancing under the sky with your closest friends and family, how much better can it get?
Mel and Brett, thanks so much for having us join your party! I also loved seeing your travel stories after the wedding, so amazing to head straight into your honeymoon! You've inspired us to visit some new places in Mexico for sure!
Villa Encanto Bucerias wedding vendors
- Ceremony and reception venue: Villa Encanto
- Hair and makeup: Fer Salon
- Wedding planning, decor and rental arrangements, catering: Karen's place
- Wedding dress and veil: Rituals of love bridal
- Bridesmaids dresses: Park and Fifth co
- Wedding bands: Cavalier Gastown
Are you interested in having us for your destination wedding in Mexico? Get in touch with us right here!
Golden Ears Park wedding: Manuella + Alex
If you're following our blog, you know Jelger and I have been to Golden Ears Park several times for engagement photos in the past year, but Manuella and Alex's day was our first wedding in the park! What an amazing location for an intimate elopement!
A few days before their wedding, Manuella and Alex had scouted Golden Ears Park. During their hike, they’d decided on a certain spot. But on the day of the wedding , a film crew had unexpectedly blocked off their chosen location. So the couple had to change plans on the spot for their first look and ceremony. While of course it’s never fun to have to change plans so suddenly, I like to think that those unpredictable elements often turn out to be a blessing in disguise. As was the case here, because the alternative ceremony spot was just breathtaking!
Speaking of the film crew. They definitely cracked us up during the photo shoot when a crew member walked around with a giant fake rock. They even brought out some fake snow!!! But I digress, haha.
After a beautiful first look, the couple and their friends held a personal wedding ceremony on the North Beach. The surrounding epic mountains added to the wonderful, intimate atmosphere. But most memorable to me, was how Manuella and Alex were so deeply present during their ceremony.
Once we’d wrapped up the shoot and walked back to the parking lot, the couple told us about their shared love for hiking (Alex even gave us some great tips for future hikes). Which is why they’d picked Golden Ears Park for their elopement wedding. I couldn’t agree more with their choice. You’ll always have a special spot to visit afterwards.
Thanks so much for having us as your wedding photographers, and we hope you'll get to do many hikes in Golden Ears Park together!
Golden Ears Park wedding vendors:
- Officiant: Pastor Delson Monteiro
- Ceremony venue: Alouette Lake in Golden Ears Park, Maple Ridge
- Florist: Flowers and Company Langley
- Makeup artist: Vivian Escobar
- Bridal dress designer/brand and store Spük
- Bride's accessories: Lajoya
- Bride's shoes: Winners
- Groom's shoes: Marshalls
- Wedding Bands: Alfonso Goldsmith
Interested in planning your own elopement wedding in Golden Ears Park? Make sure to check out our tips here and you'll be fully prepared!