I LOVE SURPRISES. And better yet, I love being part of planning them.

My friends have made planning [surprise]date nights for friends a fun past time. I learned the details of this couples surprise ten-year anniversary date and we found that Saturday morning at sunrise would be the only time for a photo session. I didn’t hide my excitement-I have been waiting to do a sunrise session for quite some time. Apparently, most people don’t like to get up that early(unless they are told to…in an envelope…the evening before).

Fortunately for me, my parents house is the perfect setting and I met them outside the gate with coffee and led them down to the dock to watch the sunrise and enjoy some breakfast. I tried to keep in mind that this was in fact still their date and I wanted them to be able to enjoy each others company but of course, I wanted to make sure I got the shots while the lighting was still perfect-I’ve never been more conscious of timing. I was so relieved by their enthusiasm at 5:30 am! And I could not have picked a better couple to spend the early morning with-a couple whose love for each other has only continued to grow over ten years. They reach for each other so easily, laugh together, and don’t hesitate at kissing.

This was such a great experience to be a part of and I am very honored for the opportunity. What a creative gift. I love that these friends of mine pay enough attention to the people in their lives to know all the little details that they would enjoy-dinner out, a hotel, a sleepover for their children, gluten free muffins, bounty bars, and special cream for coffee. What a great way to let them know that they are loved.

The Slaven’s are a super dynamic family of four who we have had a fantastic time getting to know. They are our type of people – easy-going and fun(as you can see). There is never a dull moment when there is always laughter. We have been blessed by their generosity of dinners & breakfasts, play dates, camp fires, & late night chats. It’s been an honor to document their family, full of love, and to get to know them before they say goodbye to the Crowsnest Pass.

Jody and I met almost ten years ago and since, have put in great effort to remain friends, and a part of each others lives. Jody is a videographer-six and a half years ago he spent the entire day and endless hours shooting our wedding and creating us a very treasured DVD. His work can be seen here. Our deal then, when I was in university and spending most of my hours in the darkroom, was that I would photograph his wedding when the day came.

Last year, I met the love of his life and as excited as I was for him to have found such an amazing woman, I was selfishly excited-I knew immediately that I could be friends with this wonderful and gorgeous girl. Jenna not only has great style, and a fabulous sense of humor, she is a great photographer. Her work can be seen here.

When they are together, the world around them disappears. Never have I had two people so comfortable in front of the camera and at the same time almost unaware that it is even there. Any nervousness that I had at first, as the photographer of two people who do this incredibly well themselves, disintegrated as they voiced their trust in me. I thought for sure they would direct me to get the shots they wanted but, when they said I would have free reign to create the images that I had envisioned, they meant it! I was incredibly honored and I feel so fortunate to have shared their day and document their love.

The day not only perfectly displayed their affection for one another, but their style as well-from the coffee bar to the copious amounts of gorgeous vintage items & furniture to the handmade headpiece & decorations. Everything was planned perfectly and the day was smooth, relaxed, & incredibly fun. They, of course, had the largest entourage of creative professionals I’ve ever seen, resulting in a lot of laughs and a great dance around each other. Special thanks to Limelight Studios & Rougis Photography – you were a pleasure to work with. And thank you Mr. & Mrs. Hill for including me in this amazing day, I hope you feel well represented.

Venue:  Bride’s Fathers || Vintage furniture: The Hill’s || Wedding Dress : Bliss Bridal || Groom’s Vest: Dietrich Fashions || Makeup: Jenny McKinney || Bride’s headpiece: Handmade by Bride || Bride’s bouquet: Paper n’ Lace || Bridesmaids bouquets: Bedouin || Paper decorations: Handmade by Bride || Coffee Bar: Bean Scene Coffee Works || Desserts: Homemade by friends & family || Video: Limelight Studios || Film Photography: Rougis Photography

This was my last wedding of the year and the last before moving away from the Kamloops Area. There was no better place to be than in my home town with a family that I absolutely adore. Baylea originally contacted me to simply inquire about wedding packages and when she said that the wedding was going to be in Clearwater, I thought it was odd that I didn’t know her. I was thrilled to find out she was marrying Dustin, whose family I have known and loved for most of my life. I was thrilled again to meet Baylea, the sweetest(and most organized) girl around, and learn about her love for shoes!

When the day came there was of course a gorgeous bride, a handsome groom, and cute flower girls. But, more than that, there were two people so engaged in one another, committing their whole lives to supporting and honoring one another and two families that blended so harmoniously, with their love, laughter, tears, and support.