This wedding season has been all about the ‘new normal.’ It turns out that couples have changed how they want to celebrate. As some choose the intimate route, we are experiencing an elopement boom in British Columbia –making it all about the unique experience of their love.
Helicopter photo shoots and mountaintop vows have never been so popular. Others have embraced the importance of family and friends being around them as they wed. The weekend wedding has become the go-to for couples who want togetherness as their theme. Whatever choice couples are making, they are all in. They don’t want to regret a single thing.
West Coast Weddings Magazine is once again happy to help make that happen! This issue showcases the natural beauty and authentic talent that British Columbia has to share with couples in love. Be sure to visit us at westcoastweddings.com for inspiration, tips, and ideas to help you #shoplocal for your special day.
West Coast Weddings has also had many changes over the past year, and we are happy to announce that last year’s announcement of new ownership is finally happening! Look for big changes on the website, new digital issues throughout the year, and more events. It’s as they say.
“Change is sweet!’.
- Editor West Coast Weddings Magazine
CREATIVE DEISGN: Rhia Davies-Willson
Book our esteemed and award-winning photo & video team to capture timeless photo & video team to capture timeless images on your special day images on your special day
Book our esteemed and award-winning
COVER IMAGE: Gabe McClintock Photography www.gabemcclintock.com • @gabemcclintock
PUBLISHED BY:
Published by West Coast Weddings WCW Media #145 12051 Horseshoe Way, Richmond BC, V7A 4V4 westcoastweddings.com • info@westcoastweddings.com @westcoastweddings
Thank you to all the couples, photographers and wedding professionals who have helped make this issue beautiful! West Coast Weddings does not guarantee nor endorse the quality of the services or products of our advertisers or featured suppliers. No part of this publication may be reproduced online or in print without the expressed permission of the publisher. Copyright 2024
Printed in British Columbia, Canada sowedding.ca
AWest Coast styled shoot with old-world flair! A romantic design showcasing
modern classic’ trends that couples are embracing. To tie into this theme, classical elements intertwined through all the details. From the handwritten love letters and wax seals to the use of a vintage vehicle to the finer details of the reception using two-toned silver & pearlized flatware and crystal stemware. A true vision for the modern couple!
The stunning florals created a luxurious and classic setting, with the reception table and wedding cake placed within the garden. This inspirational shoot was taken at the Silver Ridge Estate in Langley, a new venue that was designed with classical elements such as a sprawling property, a long driveway, and a large porte cochère.
WEDDING & EVENT DESIGN/FLORAL/DECOR
Using the Sunshine Coast Botanical Gardens as a backdrop, the intention behind this styled shoot was to
Originally inspired by Regency era romance, this styled shoot incoporates
or their fifth wedding anniversary, Katherine & Anthony took to the streets of Downtown Vancouver to enjoy a romantic day. Dressed in they same attire they wore the day of their wedding five years earlier and with the city as their backdrop, the couple took chic photos out front of some of Downtown's beautiful buildings before enjoying a charcuterie spread by the waterfront to celebrate their love.
British Columbia weddings and elopements are truly epic, boasting some of the world's most spectacular venues and backdrops. You can tie the knot from mountaintops to the ocean, with waterfalls, lakes, and forests in between. You can also exchange vows at wineries, resorts, glamping, gardens, luxury boats, and ballrooms—an endless choice of how and where to celebrate your day.
Looking to reach the highest mountaintops? Luckily, BC can fulfill that wish! Check-in with SKY Helicopters Heli-Weddings or ride high with Sea to Sky Air. We love the ‘two for one’ option where you wed on the beach and celebrate on the mountains or vice versa. Also –mountain flights are a great way to propose!
TIP: We highly recommend having an experienced team help you—seriously, this is not the time for DIY. The pros know where to go, the weather, the timing, and how you should dress. Start with Erica Miller Photography and Young Hip & Married or Amanda Coldicutt Photography.
Natural beauty and amazing ballrooms go hand in hand in BC. You can trip the light fantastically in your version of a royal wedding AND have waterfront photos taken just steps away. Take a tour around Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Fairmont Pacific Rim, ShangriLa Vancouver, The Sutton Hotel, and The Douglas to get started.
Love and adventure await couples in the majestic mountains and coastal waters. Sea to Sky Gondola offers a worldfamous view and a suspension bridge experience. Or marry in the rainforest with Peaks & Vows, which specializes in adventure weddings, including hot air balloons, yachts, glamping, and seaplanes! We recommend chatting with Young Hip and Married, who seem to know every nook and cranny where newlyweds can celebrate!
If gardens are where you grow, meander through Bloedel Conservatory, Hycroft Manor, Cecil Green Park House, UBC Botanical Gardens, Harrison Hot Springs Resort, and Stanley Park Pavilion. Pop Up Weddings BC will be happy to help you find your own secret garden!
Are you looking for a signature statement venue? Try restaurants such as Brix & Mortar, or artistic venues such as The Polygon Gallery or The Pipe Shop. Invite culture to your wedding at The Permanent or the Vancouver Art Gallery. Are you a farm wedding couple? You will be thrilled with Mt. Lehman Meadows or Mann Farms. Why not marry at the Bloedel Conservatory or at some of the hippest coffee shops? And for Asian history you cannot beat Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Garden.
Jane and John's wedding was set amidst the enchanting beauty of The Seasons at the Park in Vancouver. As the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape, Jane prepared for her special day with her closest friends and family by her side. Her gown, adorned with delicate lace and flowing tulle, made her look like a vision straight out of a fairy tale. Meanwhile, John stood at the altar, dressed in a sharp suit. Surrounded by their loved ones, Jane and John exchanged heartfelt vows.
Following the ceremony, the couple stole away for a private sunset session before returning to their reception, where friends and family awaited to celebrate their union. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, music, and dancing, as the newlyweds basked in the love and warmth of their loved ones.
Pre-Wedding shoots are trending, and brides are showcasing their personality with glamour! Why have just one fashion statement for your wedding? Dare to be unique!
PHOTOGRAPHY
JuMi Story
GOWN
Lace & Tulips
MAKEUP & HAIR
Momo Liu Makeup & Hair Studio
MODEL
Christy Steven
PHOTOGRAPHY
JuMi Story
GOWN
Lace & Tulips
MAKEUP & HAIR
Catherine Chen Makeup
FLORAL
Luminous Floral Studio
MODEL
Gina Di
Lance and Scott's wedding was a breathtaking blend of nature and architectural & industrial vibes, a true reflection of their unique love story. Every detail, from the elegant touches to the edgy metallic accents, spoke to their love for modern design. The couple chose to be surrounded by the serene beauty of Okanagan Lake and embraced by their closest friends and family.
On Hotel Eldorado's rooftop ceremony space they exchanged their vows in a moment that was both
intimate and filled with joyful tears. Yuriko of Vintage Origami Weddings designed the handmade their custom geometric backdrop handmade custom geometric backdrop, adorned with lush moss and marble, perfectly complemented the copper dessert bar props and handcrafted florals. The stylish way of incorporating a monochromatic palette with geometric elements and metallics was simply stunning. It was a perfect reflection of their celebration of love, style, and the journey that Lance & Scott had shared together.
In the quietude of the night, beneath a celestial canopy embroidered with the twinkling pearls of the universe, unfolds something timeless. This bridal photo shoot theme captures the beauty and inherent romance set at the witching hour. Drawing inspiration from classic literature and age-old traditions of moonlit rendezvous, the Midnight Hour theme is the perfect amalgamation of moody aesthetics, classic elements, and understated elegance. Set against the brick backdrop of an opulent, yet rustic building in Gastown, Vancouver, this photo shoot uses dim, diffused lighting to creates sense of secrecy, intimacy, and sophistication.
The bride is the epitome of classic elegance. Adorned in a form-fitting, modern gown that is the perfect touch of elegance and drama, her look is accentuated with a pair of custom pearl sleeves that sparkles in the light, as though kissed by the midnight stars themselves. Her bouquet is an array of calla lilies, embodying the rich, classic yet simple undertones of this mysterious affair.
Darcye and Christian met in their last year of university when Christian moved in across the street. They were best friends for months before they decided to start dating. Eight years later, their romance has seen moves across the country (twice) before they settled in Vancouver. Darcye had known she would get married on Pender Island since she was a little girl. Her parents got married on Pender Island over 35 years ago and it has always held a special place in Darcye's family's heart. Her family has been on South Pender since the late 1800's, when her great-great-grandfather, arrived by row boat from Victoria.
Part of the ceremony was on the family property, followed by dinner at Poets Cove. The Poets Cove patio was a dream location for their dinner and reception. They wanted to take advantage of the scenery of the Island as much as possible. As soon as you step onto the patio of the resort, you are met with a view that is quintessentially Pacific North West. They enjoyed a fantastic seafood feast while the sun set over the water. Knowing they were going to get married on Pender, it was an easy decision to try and use as many vendors and suppliers from the Island as possible. Pender Island is filled with incredibly talented wedding industry vendors!
Drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature across all seasons, we embarked on a journey to transform floral design into an expression of artistry and elegance.
(604) 738-0678
www.fourseasonsfloristry.ca fourseasonsfloristry@gmail.com 3375 Kingsway #102, Vancouver, BC
Starting as high school sweethearts, Tracey & Howard's union was a big celebration for all those in their lives. From a fun photo and video session followed by a limo ride, lunch with their nearest and dearest, to a beautiful ceremony officiated by Howard's brother-in-law.
Post-vows everyone enjoyed signature drinks, canapés and a grand Chinese banquet. The energy on the day was so lively that the dance floor lit up before dinner ended, turning the celebration into a symphony of
and togetherness. Guests were treated to an LED robot show, a cotton candy station, a lively Photo Booth and late-night instant noodles. Tracey and Howard's wedding wasn't just a party; it was an inspiration!
"When I was planning my own traditional wedding ceremony I found it really difficult to find online resources that showcased indigenous weddings, let alone indigenous people. I wanted to share the beauty, strength, and resilience of my Cree culture." - Kristy of Save the Date Beauty
For this elopement shoot, the goal was to highlight a real indigenous couple and showcase the intricate beadwork crafted by talented indigenous artists. The colour palette for the ceremony was carefully chosen, incorporating black, white, tan, golds, and burnt yellows.
One significant element of the wedding attire was an elegant cape, designed to draw inspiration from images of their ancestors and the attire they adorned during traditional ceremonies. Faux elk teeth were incorporated into the cape, paying homage to a time when such adornments would have been genuine.
The Blanket Ceremony represents the symbolism of stepping onto a blanket together, marking their entrance into the world together. Calling the Ancestors, emphasized the profound significance of the blanket. The blanket that is wrapped around them represents their ancestors that would be called to the Ceremony.
The Cree people, indigenous to Canada, have a rich cultural heritage that spans centuries. In Cree wedding ceremonies, traditions are deeply rooted in the connection to nature, spirituality, and community. The celebration is an intersection of love, culture, and a profound connection to their roots, embodying the spirit of Cree wedding ceremonies that have endured through time.
BC event caterers are at the forefront of edible experiences–a fusion of taste, color, and mood. Your guests will enjoy every bite as they taste their way through these culinary trends.
“We are seeing a real trend in creative cuisine. How something is being served has become almost as important as what you are serving. Whether it’s canapes, small plates, late night snacks or cocktails, this season we will see a lot more thought & investment put into how food & beverages are presented to guests. Its 2024 and its time to reimagine how we serve food.”
- EDGE CATERING VANCOUVER
“We believe there's something magical about seeing people come together over great food to celebrate love and happiness. We see couples wanting to add personal touches and show appreciation for their guests, so infusing love and care into every catering aspect is essential. It’s a trend that creates a masterpiece of culinary beauty!”
- PALATABLE CATERING
“Sustainability is something we find couples looking for, and we take this seriously. We actively look for partners committed to innovation and integrity and producing natural and ethical foods. And we try to do this locally if at all possible. A celebration is the perfect opportunity to do good through your choices!”
www.weknowmusicdj.com
Damian and Natasha met online just six days after Damian moved to Canada from England. It wasn’t long before they were spending all their time together. And their first kiss at an antique bookshop in front of a first edition of The Hobbit became the running theme of their romance. Natasha, a writer, bought the volume on their first anniversary for Damian, and their choice of forest elopement included quotes from The Hobbit in their vows.
amian proposed on a rainy day on Knox Mountain in Kelowna. The elopement photos featured Natasha’s boots due to the weather, but it turned out perfectly as she is a Retired Lieutenant from the Royal Canadian Air Force. The newlyweds own Maple & Manchester Fauxmagerie in Kelowna and indulge in weekend cabin getaways.
Together, Alex & Sierra cherish laughter, adventure, and supporting each other's dreams. Their wedding style reflects their love for nature and simplicity, with a touch of elegance. The couple opted for an outdoor ceremony surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, followed by a cozy reception adorned with fairy lights and rustic decor, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere for their loved ones to celebrate with them.
In the infancy of Chelsey & Matthews relationship, they stumbled across Bodega ridge. With puppy love in their hearts, the couple fantasized about a Bodega Ridge wedding in the future. Eight years later, the task of choosing a wedding destination was in front of them and they knew right away. Living in the hustle and bustle of Vancouver, Galiano provided the perfect, quiet oasis to stage their wedding, with an all star vendor team wready for every twist and turn. Guests arrived the day before to a colorful welcome party in the lodge. The west coast
took the stage by knocking out power lines, but have no fear because Bodega was ready, generators kicked in and everyone was back to dancing. The morning of the wedding was damp and drizzly, but as vows were exchanged and the rings slipped onto fingers, the clouds began to slip behind the hills exposing the warm and glorious June sun. Chelsey & Matthew's wedding celebration was nothing short of pure magic. Not only was the weekend accessorized with so many gorgeous touches, but it was filled with oh so much love!
aught in the wind, with the mountains as a backdrop and the air filled with their laughter, Mandy and Ryan exchanged vows. They held each other close, cherishing every moment. As unexpected rain showered over their evening, it only added to their collection of unforgettable moments. There was only pure joy that day.
Vancouver designer Hannah Tikkanen of The Little Pink Dress and her team create one-of-a-kind gowns worn by clients in BC and around the world. Her designs have been featured in TV and film productions, and she continues to follow her passion for designing bridal and unique occasion gowns. In her own words; “I believe dresses are magical, and they can make you feel more beautiful, powerful, and happy. When you feel like this, anything and everything is possible.” www.littlepinkdress.ca
Zoey & Adam dreamed of getting married somewhere of significance to them. As a young Jewish couple from Montreal wanting a small intimate wedding; They fell in love with the raw beauty of Victoria while dating, and just like that the destination was set!
The traditional Jewish ceremony was held at Saxe Point in Esquimalt, the perfect place where guests could experience both ocean & green landscapes that Vancouver Island is known for. In designing the reception, they wanted to draw on the natural beauty from the ceremony. A draped the reception hall and strung fairy lights created an intimate setting, with whimsical pastel florals to bring the outside beauty in. A favourite design element was the placement of the couples wedding color, the perfect shade of pastel purple; thoughtfully used throughout florals, stationery and candle sticks.
Proline
DECOR
info@prolineevents.ca • www.prolineevents.ca
SoWedding
PHOTOGRAPHY
info@sowedding.ca • www.sowedding.ca
Pebble Studio
VIDEOGRAPHY
info@pebblestudio.ca • www.pebblestudio.ca
Hilton Vancouver Metrotown
VENUE
yvrvm-salesadm@hilton.com tohaveandtoholdvancouver.ca
Reel Silks
DECOR
Instagram: @reel_silks
CUSTOM PRINTING info@unicoprint.com • www.unicoprint.com
Phonix
LIVE MUSIC & PHOTOBOOTH eric@thephonix.ca • www.thephonix.ca
Vogue Portraits
PHOTOBOOTH
info@vogueportraits.ca • www.vogueportraits.ca
JLgraphy
PHOTOGRAPHY
jlgraphy@gmail.com • www.jlgraphy.com
Marlin Travel
TRAVEL
www.marlintravel.ca/travel-agencies/vancouver/ vancouver-west-georgia-42633
Astound Entertainment DJ info@astoundentertainment.ca www.astoundentertainment.ca
Flowers on 22 FLORALS
fleurdebrise.studio@gmail.com www. flowerson22.com
Unni Pastries
CAKE unnipastries@gmail.com • www.unnipastries.com
Seville Tailors
TAILOR pcocco@telus.net • sevilletailors.ca
Shing Weddings PLANNER
hello@shingweddings.com www.shingweddings.com
Radiate LED
LED DANCEFLOOR info@radiatestaging.com www.radiatestaging.com
Captivate Vancouver RENTALS
captivatevancouver@gmail.com www.captivatevancouver.com
W.K.M. DJ Services DJ info@weknowmusicdj.com www.weknowmusicdj.com
Manites Florist FLORALS
manitesflowershop@gmail.com www.manitesflowershop.com
Musos Entertainment
MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT musosent@gmail.com • www.musosent.com
Fino Decor
DECOR finodecor@gmail.com • www.finodecor.ca
Blend BBT
BEVERAGES
info@blendbbt.com • www.blendbbt.com
Sonora Studio
PHOTOBOOTH
info@sonorastudio.ca • www.sonorastudio.ca
Alisha Khan Photography
PHOTOGRAPHY
photos@alishakhan.com www.alishakhan.com
Four Seasons Floristry
FLORALS
fourseasonsfloristry@gmail.com www.fourseasonsfloristry.ca
Young Hip and Married
OFFICIANT
marryme@younghipandmarried.com www.younghipandmarried.com
Laiki Rice Crackers
FOOD
pradeep@laikicrackers.com www.laikicrackers.com
Tara Ariel Beauty Co.
HAIR & MAKEUP contact@taraarielbeauty.com www.taraarielbeauty.com
Kristar Studio
HAIR & MAKEUP kristarevent@gmail.com
Vancouver Red Rose
FLORALS
support@vancouverredrose.com www. vancouverredrose.com
Flour Flowers Studio CAKE
jessicahuang1353@hotmail.com @flourflowersstudio
Lordnation VIOLINIST lordnation4@gmail.com www.lordnationstrings.com
Oh Sh!t Kits
EMERGENCY KIT
info@ohshtkits.com www.ohshtkits.com
Living Design Decor
DECORATOR & PLANNER
livingdesigndecor@hotmail.ca www.livingdesignsdecor.com
Bello Wedding World GOWNS
info@bellowedding.ca www.bellowedding.ca
VShine Studio
VIDEOGRAPHY vshine.studio@gmail.com www.vshinestudio.com
Heart Company PLANNER contact@heartcompany.ca www. heartcompany.ca
Yan Bakery CAKE yancakeyes@yahoo.ca www.yanbakery.com
Faye Smith Agency
HAIR & MAKEUP info@fayesmith.ca www. fayesmith.ca
Elle Weddings PLANNER
elle@elleweddings.ca www.elleweddings.ca
Dream Group PLANNER geneve@dreamgroup.ca www.dreamgroup.ca
Arras Banquet & Events VENUE sales@arras.ca • www.arras.ca
Elle Weddings
PLANNER
elle@elleweddings.ca www.elleweddings.ca
La Rose Fluer FLORALS larosevancouver1@gmail.com www.larosefleur.ca
The Wedding Studio by Tracery Studios
PHOTOGRAPHY hello@tracerystudios.com www.tracerystudios.com
Coffee Bike
BEVERAGES coffeebike@vladvik.com www.coffeebike.ca
Trans Canada Florist Ltd. FLORALS
transcanadaflorist@gmail.com www.vtranscanadaflowers.com
Oh Sh!t Kits
EMERGENCY KIT info@ohshtkits.com www.ohshtkits.com
The Soirée Company PLANNER ktrehan@thesoireecompany.com www.thesoireecompany.com
