Samantha and Joseph – Bonnyville wedding photography

Sam and Joe’s wedding was one we had been looking forward to for quite awhile!  Not only because it was going to be ah-mazing to photograph them sharing their vows amongst the pines in Bonnyville Alberta, but also because it was going to be a sweet reminder of our own wedding ceremony one year ago.

I arrived to find Sam enjoying some champagne while having her make-up done.  All the girls were at Sam’s sister’s place getting ready. Sam was more than a little excited to start the day.  She had also kept her wedding dress a surprise from almost everyone so I had to sneak into the room early to photograph it.  It was an exquisite dress and matched her bridesmaids’ chiffon dresses perfectly.  Every detail was thought of, prairie flowers, her memere’s jewlery to wear, along with a gift from Joseph. The girls wore necklaces Sam had given them.  Everyone looked stunning.  The guys were looking pretty stellar too.

In order to ensure all six bridesmaids and the bride looked stunning… it take some time.  Even with careful planning, it’s bound to take some extra time.  If a bride and groom were to take one piece of advice from this wedding it should be that even if the timing doesn’t seem to go your way, it doesn’t mean the day wont be absolutely incredible!

Sam and Joe actually had quite a few unseeable hiccups along the way.  One being that the only road leading to the chosen location among the pines was flooded three days before the wedding!  They had to haul in rig mats to allow for trucks to get through with their guests.  It was definitely worth it though.  The ceremony was full of everything that was important to the couple.  They had their pastor lead the ceremony and a justice of the peace was there to make it official.  They had a friend play the music, and there were hymns specifically chosen to commemorate those who had passed on.  It was obvious how important family and friends are to them.

For us, spending the day with a ridiculously fun bridal party, having a bride who was so easy going and adventurous (she even kissed a frog), having a couple who is 100% head over heals for each other and having the opportunity to taking photographs in Bonnyville’s natural surroundings, including Joseph’s grandfather’s farmstead… it was a dream come true.

After the portrait session portion of the day, we headed to the beautifully decorated hall to enjoy a full on traditional Ukrainian dinner.  (Shaun and I even had our romantic table for two reserved for us).  It was an amazing night, so many friends had gathered together to help make it incredible.  There were homemade cupcakes, a friend made their beautiful cake and a fantastic photo booth was put together.  Thanks for a wonderful day and Congratulations once again!

- Steph