There is always a first for everything...
And this wedding proved to be just that. The FIRST time I have ever photographed a wedding since 2008 where it rained the ENTIRE day. And you know what? I am not even a tiny bit mad about it!
I have been meaning to share this incredible rainy day wedding for a few months now, but alas my blogging has fallen by the wayside. But better late than never!
Covid restrictions in place this wedding was able to go ahead, slightly downsized & modified but celebrated nonetheless
Qua began her day getting ready at their townhouse, Nina Farru, and Jon right next door at his neighbours surrounded by their bridal party & a few friends. After photographing some candids & details I escorted Jon outside to await his soon to be bride for their first look - the white umbrella was a perfect touch to this rainy day! This first look allowed the two of them to travel up the spectacular Sea to Sky gondola together and allowed me to intimately photograph them alone together. Although there was not much of a view due to the fog & clouds - the raindrops on the window and the diffused light from the fog created an absolutely magical atmosphere for photos.
Once up top we very quickly photographed the group photos - to which I might add, not a single one complained about their rain soaked dresses & suits... everyone was still smiling and having a great time. I must admit, at one point my hands were frozen, I could no longer changed the settings on my camera - Lucky for me, on the way up I popped 2 heat packs into my pockets and it did just the trick!
The rain continued so the decision was made to have their ceremony under a large white tent on of of the decks just outside their cocktail hour reception area. Qua's brother walked her down the aisle & their close friend performed the ceremony which was incredibly heartfelt. Those friends and family that were unable to attend, were able to watch the ceremony by zoom (thank you technology!!). I think my favourite part of the ceremony was when Qua, in true teacher form, took out her vows - which were written on the back of a piece of paper she very clearly ripped out of her day planner. Everyone burst out laughing & this brought a light heartedness to what could have been a horribly drewry day.
After the ceremony everyone gathered for hors d'oeuvres & cocktails before heading down the gondola to dry off and head to the reception location. I saw this as a perfect opportunity to wisk the two of them off into the trees & really embrace the moody feel of the fog in the forest - and I sure am glad I did. Even though we left completely drenched this moment alone together added such a special touch to their day. Not to mention some added laughter after Jon slipped down (without injury!) a slight incline and absolutely demolished the umbrella he was holding.
We returned to their home so Qua's crew could go to town on her hair & dress with 3 blow dryers - it was a beautiful team effort!
The wedding reception was set up by Moonlit Events Co. at The Salted Vine, a uniquely intimate restaurant in Squamish BC. This location was perfect - a small & quaint open area in a heritage building that is the oldest in Squamish - established in 1909. The florals and details by Blackcomb creative were stunning. Greg neufeld played live throughout the entire reception (and during the ceremony too) which added the perfect ambient music. The family style dinner was catered by the Salted Vine which has made it our next go to date night spot - it was seriously so good.
After speeches, they cut their cake made by le gateau cake shop, and the evening continued with socializing & ended with a fun little competitive game that involved static electricity ) & balloons as dancing was not allowed (can you tell these two are teachers?)
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I am so grateful to have been apart of this day. With each wedding I photograph I learn something new about myself, my work & the clients I photograph. Learning to roll with the punches and really step out of my comfort zone to get creative in such difficult elements was one I will never forget. Not only that, to see the resilience & happiness that just radiated from the two of them, regardless of the weather was truly inspiring.
Venue: Sea to Sky Gondola & The Salted Vine
Florals: Blackcomb Creative
Planner: Moonlit Events Co
MUAH: Nina Farrauto
Music: Greg Neufeld
Cake: Le Gateau Cake Shop
Photographer: Myself as Lead Photographer of The Whistler Wedding Collective
