Last month Jelger and I had the pleasure to photograph our first Bowen Island wedding! The entire concept of Bowen Island was unknown to us, as we’d only seen if from the ferry (to Sunshine Coast) or when driving along the Sea To Sky Highway. When John and Britta told us they’d celebrate their wedding there (on the property of John’s parents) we had no idea what to expect. And did they waw us!

When arriving at the location, the day before the wedding, we were beyond impressed. What a beautiful piece of paradise! The gorgeous and wild beach, the lush rainforest, their stunning home with amazing views… I’m sure all of it contributed to the experience of the wedding guests! And extra suitable for this adventurous duo, that clearly has a love for hiking and nature.

On the morning of the wedding, the weather turned out amazing! This was especially great because everything took place outdoors, including the reception. For the beach wedding ceremony, Britta and John had created a stunning (and unconventional!) setup. The couple stood on a wooden platform, right next to the ocean and the guests could sit either on big wooden logs or on the rocks in the back! Of course, a few select guests used chairs, but I loved how this big group organically arranged itself!

Britta and John’s dog, Harvey, got demoted from ring bearer to companion, because he couldn’t contain his enthusiasm, lol. But that didn’t stop him from joining us during a few photos and from being extra adorable. 😉

One of the most memorable moments for me was that during the reception The Buckaroos, a live band consisting of 3 of Johns cousins and friends brought musical entertainment. And at some point, John’s sisters AND his dad joined the performance! There’s something magical about live music, especially when the evening sets in accompanied by the sound of the ocean.

Something else that will also remain in my memory is that Britta’s parents travelled from Germany to attend the wedding and that it was her dad’s first time travelling so far! Jelger got to practise his German a bit during family portraits. (Fun fact, Jelger is half German and raised bilingually in Dutch and German)

Britta and John, thanks so much for having us to capture your magical day! I’m very grateful we got to be a part of it!

Bowen Island wedding vendors

• Officiant: Bruce Butler, family friend and B.C. Supreme Court Justice
• Florist: Bowen Island Flower Shop, Caroline Walker
• Decor and catering rentals: A&B Party Rentals
• Harvest tables & chairs: Bowen Event Rentals
• Bowen Island wedding Caterer: Vine & Garden, Matt Matheson
• Makeup artist and hair stylist: Line Artistry, Katie Elwood (and Min Jee)
• Cake artist: Heather, the groom’s sister
• Band: The Buckaroos consisting of  three of the groom’s cousins (Mark, Ian and Andrew) plus two of their friends (Kori and Chris)!
  
• Bridal dress: Union Bridal
  
• Groom’s suit: Harry Rosen
• Shuttle Bus: Peter King
• Day-of Coordinator: Karla Bensen

Would you like to celebrate your own wedding on Bowen Island with us as your photographers? Get in touch here. For more inspiration and wedding photography in and around Vancouver, check out more weddings here.