Groom’s Attire for the West Coast Beach Wedding! We love to see the guys in their wedding suits and tuxes, but many of our West Coast grooms are marrying on the beach – which often involves running through the ocean!  That means a tux may not be the best choice…so what is the well-dressed groom wearing to his beach wedding?

The current trends for grooms feature blues, pale grey and beige – the perfect palette for any seaside event.

The current trends for grooms feature blues, pale grey, and beige – the perfect palette for any seaside event. Those are also the colours that tend to look the best when surrounded by nature. While there are no ‘rules,’ be sure the groom’s look will stand the test of time.

You are invited to more groom tips!

That being said, what most grooms love about a beach wedding is that they can go less formal.  Undoing a few shirt buttons, maybe losing the tie/jacket, or simply being able to wear more casual fabrics. Some grooms still prefer to wear a suit but choose a looser fit that is more comfortable.

Whatever the look…be sure to take a cue from the bride.  What she chooses as her bridal gown will influence how a groom will style. Go for a timeless yet comfortable look and enjoy a wonderful day with family and friends!

Tips for the Beach Wedding Groom:

Always allow the bride to take the lead in how casual your wedding will be – you may have to abandon your plan to wear shorts if your bride has found her dream princess gown!

Footwear can be anything from traditional to sneakers – but always have the appropriate shoes for your style.

Grooms can go sockless but always wear invisible socks with closed shoes.

Cotton and linens or lightweight wool suits are perfect materials for outdoor weddings!

Never wear a formal tux under the beach skies. Always go towards lighter suits.  Remember – it can get hot!

with thanks to Dale of Outlooks at Men (outlooksformen.com)

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Wilderness + Waterfalls Wedding

Ashley and Mike proved that last-minute planning can be exceptional! Their Vancouver Island wedding may have been small but mighty. Fourteen guests (and their dog Moka) joined them as they made it legal in the same spot they had romantically promised to be together a year before.

The love story spans many years, coming together in their elopement-style day. Ashley and Mike had been sweethearts when they were young and, later in life, came together again. Mike got a job offer in San Jose, California, so the couple decided it was time to make some dreams come true. Their naturally beautiful BC wedding showcased a ceremony at Lower Myra Falls in Strathcona Park. Afterward, they held a private dinner at one of the larger cabins at Strathcona Park Lodge. 

One of the fun moments of the day was meeting the other couple who were marrying the same day at Strathcona Park Lodge. Their photographer noticed they looked pretty similar and took the money shot! The couples are still in touch. (You are invited to another Aly Sibley wedding!)

We love the bride’s boho gown with ruffled sleeves (and the bridal boots!), the chill vibe, the groom’s vest, the guests, and the dog everywhere that day. Ashley + Mike are a wonderful example of bringing nature into your Vancouver Island elopement-style day. A true Wilderness+ Waterfalls wedding!

PHOTOS: Aly Sibley Photography

OFFICIANT: Chris-Ann Lake of Young Hip & Married  

CEREMONY: Lower Myra Falls, Strathcona Park

RECEPTION: Strathcona Park Lodge

FLORAL: Campbell River Florist

JUST MARRIED SIGNS: Friends!

DOG: Moka!

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10 West Coast Wedding Floral Crowns

We love summers here at West Coast Weddings because that is when photographers drop their sneak peek photos from that weekend’s weddings! One trend that we are enjoying is the gorgeous floral crowns.  Once reserved for the hippie bride, bridal wreaths are everywhere. Traditional brides combine floral crowns with veils, while bohemian brides wear them atop loose curls.

Head wreaths for brides are a way to create a more casual look for the formal bride. There is no reason why you can’t have your cake and eat it too. Are you wearing a cathedral veil for a church ceremony? Why not change it out to a floral crown for those beach photos? Or have your wreath ready for the pre-wedding photos?

Floral crowns can come in various sizes, from dainty rings of flowers to more adventurous bursts of greenery and colour. Wreaths and coordinating bouquets can create the most beautiful bridal portrait, so go ahead and have one made just for the photos.  Some brides are excited to don a floral wreath for woodland engagement photo sessions.

Floral crowns can create a lovely and ethereal look for the traditional or non-traditional wedding!

No matter the style or colour, floral crowns create a lovely and ethereal look for a traditional or non-traditional wedding. Let your imagination soar, and enjoy the beautiful results!  We chose ten West Coast wedding floral crowns to help you design your wedding day wreath.

We invite you to more West Coast wedding florals!

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Wedding Venue Showcase: Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa

The Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa is an ideal getaway for a destination wedding in the world-renowned Gulf Islands. A spectacular oceanfront West Coast resort that is close to the major centers of Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle, yet a world away. We loved our trip, visiting where beach and oceanfront ceremonies are held and the dinner and reception settings. Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa aims to create a memorable wedding day for couples and guests in the West Coast setting.  True boutique wedding specialists with romantic elopements for two and elegant affairs for up to 100 guests (64 overnight guests).

If you are a couple looking for a property where you can hold events the day before and the day after, this is it. All of your guests can stay in Oceanfront comfort, and you can have the entire resort for the weekend. If you have any fishing enthusiasts among your guests, they will be over the moon! The walks along the ocean, the sunset views, and the local village vibe all add to a magical place to have your special day. It’s a complete Galiano Island resort experience! And pet-friendly – which is super important for those who wish to have their ‘kids’ with them.

A spectacular oceanfront West Coast resort that is close to the major centres of Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle, yet a world away!

There are two amazing oceanfront Wedding Ceremony spots, both with spectacular views.  A world-class restaurant for the reception with the ocean as your backdrop with room to dance the night away. The owners are very proud that they can offer some of the best cuisine on the West Coast with a great selection of BC Wines and craft beers. You can also have your reception outside on the oceanfront and move into the reception rooms as the night progresses. There are lots of options! We asked about the gazebo and the majestic tree in front of the beach – yes, also both popular spots!

 

The Galiano Inn Spa in the Gardens

Galiano Inn can also offer a first-class spa with massage, manicures, pedicures, facials, and an Eucalyptus Steam Room, all steps away from your room. The Madrona Del Mar Spa cottages are tucked into the beautiful garden area beside a babbling brook and fountain, which makes a massage here quite a relaxing and rejuvenating experience! The spa is the perfect way to get everyone relaxed and pretty for special events, and it takes a big ‘to do’ off your list. 

The Gardens at the Inn

We especially loved the Gardens at the Inn. The Flores Del Iris Gardens are rather famous, and guests are encouraged to wander through and enjoy the blend of wild and formal plantings. Galiano Inn works hard to be community-oriented and environmentally friendly. The Gardens are part of this effort, and you can often find local events taking place (International Women’s Day was being celebrated through local artists while we were visiting!). They also host the Kunamokst Mural, which most wedding couples pose in front of at some point! The Inn is a photographer’s paradise with beautiful gardens and beaches steps away from each other and waiting for those epic shots.

Fine Dining Along the Oceanfront

Galiano Inn is incredibly proud of its culinary offerings. Under its Executive Chef, the Atraveda Restaurant has become a peak experience for Pacific dining. They don’t shy away from dietary preferences or restrictions, so you can offer your guests diverse options to suit them without losing their authentic local tastes. The Chef will work with couples to create their menu and liquor pairings. 

Galiano Inn Wedding Guest Accommodations

The accommodations are excellent—we loved the views of the Ocean and the open-concept feel of full kitchen amenities. The suites have washers/dryers, a deck suited for summer and winter use, a large table and chairs for dining, a barbecue, a soaker tub, and a fireplace. We had the fireplace toasting us during our stay while we listened to the West Coast waves in the background—truly wonderful. Of course, there are other room types available for all your guests. Outside the Inn is a fun bakery for your sweet tooth and a bookstore filled with reading treasures. We think coming on the ferry as a foot passenger and leisurely taking the four-minute walk to the Inn is a fantastic travel option. The ferry ride is out of this world – weaving between the Gulf Islands and passing by boats. What a way to welcome your guests and begin creating special memories together!

Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa is a short ferry ride from Victoria, Sidney, or Vancouver. If you want to have your special event or wedding at Galiano Oceanfront Resort and Spa, visit their website and talk to their helpful Event Planner. They are full of advice, have all the vendors you need at their fingertips, and can’t wait to help you celebrate. 

If you are looking for a chill vibe, elegant oceanfront views, and intimate romantic memories, then Galiano Oceanfront Resort and Spa is the place for you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 Fly Away With Me…Yes, please!  When people talk about dream weddings, how many think of a helicopter ride to the top of a mountain? Well, that’s precisely what this beautiful couple Elyse and Josh had in mind for their West Coast wedding.  49 North Helicopters, based in Campbell River on Vancouver Island, is known to provide some sweet heli-love packages for the more adventurous couples out there.  

Wondering what you need to know to include a mountain adventure on your wedding day? The first thing is to decide if you wish to make it a part of your wedding or get ready and go the day before or after. Do you want to bring up a bridal party/family or make it a romantic twosome? Once you figure out what you want to make of your time at the top, then you can plan your actual trip. Some things seem obvious, but remember that it will be chilly at the top. And that you will need some very serious footwear, so either make sure it can be hidden by your gown or shop for something warm and stylish. Your gown will be going through some things, so have a plan if you are returning to a reception. The wind could make some inroads on your hair, so you may need to rebook your hairstylist on landing. 

Helicopter rides and sweet mountain I love yous, can make yours the most epic of West Coast weddings. So jump in, ask your honey to ‘fly away with me’, and head for the mountains!

You are invited to more romantic helicopter mountain rides!

PHOTOS: Erin Wallis Photography  | GOWN: Essence of Australia from Ladybelle Bridal | FLOWERS: Thrifty Foods –Campbell River | SUIT: Moores Clothing for Men | TRAVEL: 49 North Helicopters 

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Sun Kissed Barefoot Beach Wedding...this celebration was so gorgeous! Anton and Montana were a fascinating couple – they had modeled many times for wedding shoots but had never attended a real wedding! So, they had a clear vision in mind when it came to their nuptials.

It was essential for Anton and Montana to marry in Victoria. So they decided on The  Beach House Restaurant in Cordova Bay.  The ocean is only steps away, which allows for a barefoot beach ceremony.  Family and friends joined them around a driftwood canopy wrapped in white linen. The reception that followed featured fun music and lots of food, along with tears and laughter. The weather could not have cooperated more as the sun shone brightly upon their happiness.

Anton & Montana had a clear vision in mind!

We loved the bride’s look with the baby’s breath wreath, barefoot sandal jewelry, and flowing gown. The groom epitomized beach chic for men and had perfected his ‘over the threshold’ lift!

A  Special Moment!

An extraordinary moment at this wedding was the first dance, which featured Anton and Montana in a lovely waltz just as the sun kissed the waves.  The evening ended with a sparkler send-off on the beach. Congrats to this gorgeous couple!

You are invited to another beach wedding!

Photographer: Ophelia Photography  Hair:  Amanda of Kharma Design Studio | Makeup: Carly Flint + iLashes by Lisa | Wedding Dress and Accessories: Grace Loves Lace | Jeweller: Ann Louise  Jewellers | Anton’s ring:  Komo Koa Jewellers, Hawaii | Floral: Kenmar Flower Farm/Ingrid Rose Floral Artistry and Family | Officiant:  Sherry Lynne Easthom | Music:  Jill Cooper / Party Peeps  | Cake and Cupcakes: Cake by Taryn | Hotel: Victoria Regent | Limo: LA Limousines | Wedding Venue: The Beach House Restaurant | Groomswear: Hudson’s Bay | Menswear: Outlooks for Men | Dance Lessons: Arthur Murray Dance Studio

If you loved Anton & Montana’s wedding….we invite you to

Kyler & Jaymee’s Backyard Affair!

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Mountain Top Elopement on Vancouver Island 

Elopement is the ultimate way to have a private ceremony with just the two of you (and an officiant) someplace special. You can imagine our excitement over this Vancouver Island mountain top elopement when the first photo appeared! Vistas that stretch for miles, perfectly blue sky and a very adventurous couple that wished to celebrate their love at the top of the world.

Surprise

Chris surprised Danielle a few days before the planned wedding with the idea and it couldn’t have turned out better. Clayoquot Sound looked amazing from the air and the water provided a lovely colour show along with a whale sighting!  Of course, special thanks to Atleo Air for this elopement!

You are invited to more weddings in mountains!

Photography by Paul Levy Photo

Elopement Planning 

This elopement is wonderful with the photos both above and below the mountaintops. Be sure that you have a Plan B should the weather not cooperate for helicopter flights. And when you are going to snowy caps be prepared with suitable warm clothing and footwear! A wedding planner can really be helpful if it is a destination wedding as they will know what you will need for your adventure of a lifetime. 

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Love Letters at Dolphin’s Resort in Campbell River…we love all the wonderful details in this lovely palette. Take a look at the linen-covered in lettering, modern and traditional decor, blush floral, and, of course, the amazing ceiling decor!

Dolphin’s Resort boasts a sweeping ocean view and this beauty is used as a backdrop to the wedding table. Pale flowers are placed in a quirky manner in white vases while white on white linens and tableware shine. We especially love the gold flatware, tall white taper candles, and twigs that are spread across the tablescape. The piece de resistance is the linen that pools over the edge and onto the floor. A poem espousing love is beautifully done in calligraphy across the linen. The gorgeous wedding cake sits in a gold stand on the pooled linen. The bridal couple is so stylish and sophisticated. The bride is in a stunning white, V-neck, lace gown with a stunning back feature. The fit and flare is perfect for the West Coast relaxed formal look.

A real piece of art within this shoot is the ceiling decor made of twigs and floral. The delicate creation appears to hang in the air above the long table. The rich brown chairs are the perfect foil to the twig decor. Love Letters at Dolphin’s Resort is an inspiration for a naturally beautiful West Coast Wedding!

PHOTOS: Erin Wallis Photography | DESIGN + FLOWERS: Bezaire Floral & Events | HAIR + MUA: Wildflower on Location | GOWN: Unbridled Courtenay | TUX: Jim’s Clothes Closet | CAKE: Cakebread Artisan Bakery | COOKIES: OMG Macarons | LETTERING: Melanie Anne Designs | RENTALS: All in One Party Shop | COCKTAILS: Wild Coast Cocktails | VENUE: Dolphins Resort

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Dolphin’s Resort Wedding Romance…a wonderful modern take on a west coast elopement held by the ocean in a cottage venue. The location ties together all the best things about a Vancouver Island wedding. The water, the views, the forest and a beach house to celebrate in with your intimate group of friends and family.

We love, love, love the gown by Reclamation Design. The open back and butterfly sleeves with fringes are complemented by the flowing skirt. A trendy yet classic take on the bridal gown and an eco friendly choice. What’s not to love! The floral wreath is a perfect touch for this bridal ensemble featuring tiny white flowers, blue thistle and eucalyptus greenery. The groom is perfect in his sophisticated black and white with boutonniere.

A sweetheart reception table sits atop the cottage venue balcony overlooking the spectacular ocean view and beach below. Crisp pastels are set with light gold plates and wine glasses and await the newlyweds first meal together. Simplicity and sophistication are the key to making sure the surroundings and view are the star attraction.

Dolphin’s Resort Beach House venue boasts a cozy atmosphere with a wall of windows and fireplace. Newlyweds can dance below cafe lights across the ceiling trusses and watch the incredible sun sets. Dolphin’s Resort Wedding Romance comes to life by the naturally beautiful majestic firs and ceremony friendly beaches. Saying ‘I Do’ here is a beautiful day in the making!

Resort: Dolphin’s Resort | Hair & Makeup: Kayla Rae Makeup Artist | Dress: Reclamation Design | Florals: Campbell River Florist | Event Supplies: All in One Party Shop | Photography: Gal Eye Photography | Models: Ashley + Braeden 

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A Forest Wedding Vision Artfully Catered…often the last thing on a wedding list is the food but, in this case,  the cuisine was just as beautiful as everything else!  Truffles Catering worked with Prestlee and Scott to create a gorgeous culinary vision amongst the majestic trees of Vancouver Island.

This wedding was our 2020 issue cover shot and story in the magazine. We loved everything about this wedding and we soon realized we wanted to draw attention to the catering at this woodland reception.

The long tables were set amongst the giant trees, with the stump of one serving as a stage for the speeches. Each table was covered in lush west coast flowers, greenery and candles. Above the tables were strung strings of café lights that lit up the entire tableau after dark. Each white plate held a fern leaf and place card on white vellum paper.

The real star of this show, however, was the drinks, appetizers, desserts, cake and main course. Truffles Catering had servers in formal wear offering both sweet and savory throughout the evening. A lovely seating area offered a cocktail bar with all of the fixings and a cake table filled with sweet things. We loved the doughnut sticks where the treats, with different shades of icing, waited for guests to choose their favorite. The wedding cake and sweets around it were also in white icing with lush greenery décor.

Family and guests enjoyed the wonderful night of food, many toasts to the bride and groom and speeches under the stars. The newlyweds danced under the stars knowing their their forest wedding vision artfully catered had been a success!

VENUE: Cowichan River Wilderness Lodge |  PLANNING | RENTALS | FLORAL: Party Mood | PHOTOS: Erin Wallis Photography | GOWN: Willowby by Watters at The White Peony | MENSWEAR: Tip Top Tailors | CUISINE: Truffles Catering | RENTALS: Black and White Party Rentals 

You are invited to another West Coast Forest Wedding!

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