Kristy & Shea's Beach Club Resort Wedding

Kristy & Shea's day was amazing for so many reasons

Let's start at the beginning! I adored connecting with these two. They were so excited and wonderfully prepared for their big day. Both young, smart, local professionals- picking up on their energy and intention was simple. They had the best vibes and the sweetest connection which was easy to see from the start. These two were planning their wedding at The Beach Club, a beautiful oceanside resort in Parksville, BC. It's right on the board walk and a lovely sandy section of water which is a beautiful backdrop and location for portraits. When the tide is out at this spot, you can see the most stunning beach for miles. Honestly, it gives tropical vibes from time to time! We took their sunset sneak away photos there and they did NOT disappoint. The most cotton candy skies I think I've ever seen- but I will get to that later!

When choosing their photography package, they decided to go with my 10 hour wedding package for their celebration (it's my fave) which meant they also received a complimentary engagement session. Usually, I provide suggestions for locations based on a couples preferences, ideas and vibes for their session and we take it from there. But these two had spot already in mind and WOW they had great taste! It was one I hadn't been to before and honestly - it's a stunner. We explored the forest, quiet grassy knolls and walked down to the beach to climb on some big rocks. They also brought their super sweet doggo which I lovedddd. It was the perfect addition to their session.

When it came to their big day

The bride & groom decided to have everything from first looks to the dance floor captured, which was perfect for their needs! We started their photography coverage in Nanoose bay, at the same spot they had their engagement session. How special is that?! We planned for first looks, wedding party and family formals to take place at the park. As their wedding was in June, clear skies were far from a guarantee. The entire morning in Nanaimo and Parksville, it was a total downpour. I remember driving up island thinking OMG those are the most rainiest of rain clouds I have ever seen! It was this big dark shadowy mess looming above. I kid you not, at the park- and ONLY the park, the sun came out! It was totally wild. Big fluffy white clouds, blue bird skies, and maybe 10 rain drops fell the entire time. It was quite magical. I even recall the bride and her party heading to the park in the limo calling her Dad and mentioning how hard it was pouring where they were and him letting her know how it was clear skies where we were, it seemed literally impossible!

The groom & groomsmen had arrived early (which is also unheard of-lol!) so we got started with some group shots of them while we waited for the ladies. When I saw Kristy- I was floored! Not only was she so beautiful she just had put together such a LOOK that suited her so well. I get soooo excited to see my brides and she was no exception! I walked her through the forest to set her up for her first look, did the same with her groom and we started the day. I love to gently guide couples during this time. Encouraging them to stay present and grounded for this once-in-a-lifetime moment. They also exchanged heartfelt private vows overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean during their first look. It was pretty spectacular. They were seriously SUCH a pair. Kristy looking so stunning and Shea in his RCMP red serge, they popped against our stunning coast. It was a breeze capturing them for their couples portraits in a place we had previously captured. As always, having them focus on each other, their connection and movement made for some seriously lovely images. We had a blast capturing their wedding party and family formals. While there was light wind, it wasn't anything crazy and the rain held out the entire time! And guess what! That wasn't the only time that day the weather did some CRAZY things for them.

When we arrived at The Beach Club

It was just before their ceremony. And let me tell you- it was RAINING! Not like.. oooo nice little sprinkle- it was pouring! They still planned to go ahead with their outdoor ceremony and the lovely staff were wiping down chairs trying to keep everything as dry as possible. No joke- a few minutes before it was go time, the skies cleared and the rain stopped! It was insane! It totally worked out for them not once, but twice! It was like the sunshine followed them where they went- I loved it. They had the sweetest ceremony overlooking the beautiful beach. Love was in the air and there was nothing but goodness at this celebration.

I've said it so many times but I truly love what I do. When I get to know my couples and then I see those really special moments like walking down the aisle or the first kiss, I am just over the moon. I know how amazing they are and how special those precious memories are and honestly it's a wonder I keep it together - but I promise I do!

The Beach Club Resort Parksville Vancouver Island BC wedding ceremony

Post ceremony we planned for a sneak away

Which is one of my biggest tips to my couples! its this super exciting moment where you've just said I do and escaping just to stare into each others eyes and soak it all in is so special. Added bonus, it allows for your guests to clear out to cocktail hour! Of course you want all the hugs and congratulations but if you have a medium to large size wedding, this can add on a significant amount of time to your timeline. Picture this: You finish your ceremony, turn around and have 100 people hug you, congratulate you, ask to see your ring, tell you how beautiful you look and ask for a selfie. Ok, it sounds amazing and it is but I promise you will have other chances in the day to connect with your guests without feeling overwhelmed or rushed!

So, the sneak away. At this point the groom was ready for an outfit change so with the fresh new look, we went to the beautiful indoor staircase inside the lobby at The Beach Club- and it did not disappoint. Totally beautiful and such a great spot for this cherished moment. Guests in the hotel stopped to congratulate them and tell them how great they looked. It was so lovely.From there it was time for cocktail hour!

A grand entrance onto the patio

As husband and wife, the evening festivities started! Everyone enjoyed canapés and company before heading inside for the reception. The ballroom was decorated stunningly with rich, warm colours and no details spared. The early parts of their reception included great food and some pretty top notch speeches and toasts. I have no idea how many speeches I have heard over the years but it truly never gets old. The funny stories and insights into the couple are the best. I love capturing reactions from tears to deep belly laughs as it unfolds. I remember the speeches at my own wedding. Comical, heartfelt and thoughtful. It's fun to be a part of and it's fun to watch!

The moment you've all been waiting for...

SUNSET PHOTOS! The rain and sun mix made for the most epic sunset. It was purple, it was pink, it was blue. Literally cotton candy. So stunning. I always love when couples opt for this part of the day. You've said I do, had a drink, had some food and relaxed. You feel the wedding bliss in full and know it's nothing but dancing and celebrating ahead. The lighting is spectacular and you get a moment to connect just the two of you. I could go on and on about this but I'm going to let these images speak for themselves.

We made our way back to their reception

For the party to start! The cake was cut, dessert was brought out and one of the most fun and epic first dances was had! The dance floor opened, the drinks were served and the night went on with fun and no shortage of shenanigans. Their coverage ended with some dance floor action and I had the biggest smile on my face. Knowing that all the best parts of their incredible day had been preserved for life, my job was done.

An amazing start, an amazing end.