Jared and Olivia’s wedding day was filled with sunshine and joy. Everyone was just so happy to be there and to be together to celebrate such a beautiful wedding. It was one of the first post-COVID weddings without restrictions, and it showed. Of course, there were some setbacks along the way as decisions were changed, changed, and changed again. As often happens, all these changes ended up creating an even better day than the couple and family had imagined.

The couple, along with their friends, each stayed over the night before at homes nearby (we hear there were hijinks aplenty). The bride and groom arrived at the Cowichan Bay winery for their ‘first look’ photos. The sun reached its zenith just as Jared and Olivia exchanged vows under the frame backdrop covered in lush roses, hydrangeas, and ivy. Guests looked out at a field of grape vines and countryside scenery as they witnessed the first kiss.

No one was in a hurry to leave on such a sun-kissed afternoon, and guests leisurely tasted the local wines and nibbled on appetizers while visiting the gardens. The call to the reception was happily greeted, and everyone carried their wine into the eucalyptus-filled room. One of the happy accidents of this wedding turned into a very popular dinner. The venue had included a chef and sit down meal in the original contract but then reneged at the last minute. So a desperate search for a caterer had ensued but none was to be had for a July Saturday afternoon. Enter an amazing charcuterie table – 16 feet long and three feet wide. What a display of delicious food and guests were enchanted with the idea of choosing their supper! The wedding party and family entertained everyone with speeches – some tearful but mostly full of laughter. The gorgeous detailed wedding cake was cut and enjoyed along with the dessert table. 

The first dance was held at the garden pavilion, and the sun finally set at the perfect moment. As guests wandered back to the reception, they were met with a sparkling wonderland of candles and twinkle lights among the creme roses—a wonderful tableau under the stars.

We loved the super fun bridal party, the elegant blush bridesmaid gowns, the vintage car, and the unique giveaways. Jared + Olivia’s sun-kissed winery wedding was magazine-worthy (which is why it is in the 2023 Vancouver Island wedding issue!). 

PHOTOS: Kacie McColm Photography

GOWN: Blush Victoria

HAIR: Kiana Rogers

CAKE: Yvonne Ashley

CATERING: Charcuterie and Co.  

FLORAL DESIGN + DECOR: West Coast Weddings Company

RENTALS: Decorate Victoria  | Trend Décor

SUITS: RW & Co.

RINGS: Staghead Designs

Let’s talk about the gorgeous bride! We love her choice of David’s Bridal fitted gown showcasing the off-the-shoulder neckline and a petite train. The fingertip length veil was the perfect accessory for this radiant bride. Formal beauty surrounded by natural landscape! The bride chose a bold yellow and orange bouquet filled with roses and set in delicate greenery. 

The groom also wows with some great fashion! A beige suit by Indochino is paired with a white shirt – a true beach wedding ensemble. The orange and yellow blossoms’ boutonniere completes his outfit and his stylish shoes. 

This wedding is the marriage of two people and the marriage of tech with romance! Hundreds joined the couple by Zoom as they exchanged vows which is a unique way to wed. And one that is fast becoming a permanent feature at weddings even as the pandemic wanes. Why not have all your friends from around the world join in your happiness that would not otherwise be able to be present? 

Hayden + Dee’s wedding is one to imitate for an in-person and virtual occasion. Online guests received lots of attention from the newlyweds, and they kept the cameras on for the reception. 

Let’s talk about the reception, which featured cutting the cake and a gorgeous drink table. The day’s piece de resistance was the fabulous picnic set up by Bespoke Decor featuring a west coast triangle arch looking to the ocean for a backdrop. A patterned blanket, flowers, pretty pillows, lanterns, and a candalabra complete the look. (the pampas grass is the icing on this decor cake!)

The best part of all, in our opinion? The bride in a purple velvet gown for a photo session! Why not, right? There is more than one way to look fabulous on your special day—all in all, a west coast wedding with glam style. 

PHOTOS: Esther Moerman Photo | VIDEO: Lonely Wolf Productions | GOWN: David’s Bridal | SUIT: Indochino | PLANNER: Virtuous Endeavors Weddings & Events | FLORIST: Studio Full Bloom | DECOR: Bespoke Décor | DJ: Raspy Entertainment | CAKE: Linda Tang| HAIR + MUA: Isenmila Chisom

Instead of debating between the traditional white wedding dresses and black ones to make a statement, why not both? Walking down to the metallic circular arch with a feminine mermaid lace gown, entering the reception like a princess in an adorable ball gown, and concluding the night in a stunning black dress to create everlasting images for the guests. The staircase poses are a royal rebel bride setting, for sure! 

The floral designers from IDO Studio embraced the uniqueness by including queen protea in the bouquet to symbolize the beauty of a strong and powerful bride. The powerful colour selection is carried through the floral decor and is especially complementary to the brick walls. 

Classy black and gold, with a touch of the red invitation suite and gold wax seal, set the tone of the wedding. The reception wooden beauty was styled with a black runner, candles, and hand-tied napkins and is surrounded by gold Chiavari chairs with black cushions. The crowning touch is adding gold chargers, cutleries, and glasses. Red and coffee break rose centerpieces with gold leaves made the tablescape glamorous. The tablescape is finished with the settings, topped by chic black and gold menus and red roses on the matte black dining plates.

Heritage brick-and-beam construction with contemporary coastal designs of The Loft at the Earls Yaletown was perfect backdrop for this shoot. The venue has many cool and modern furniture and decorations. We especially love the emerald green sofa, black staircase, and neon sign which added stylish elements to the photos.

Old Hollywood + Modern Rose Wedding Inspiration is all that a true Vancouver wedding should be. Strong design and colours come together to create a regal vibe that will make for a lasting impression! 

PHOTOGRAPHY: Edison & Henry of IDO Studio |  VIDEOGRAPHY: VSHINE STUDIO  | PLANNING: Enchanting Stories |  FLORAL + DÉCOR: Rita & Elaine of IDO Studio |  RENTAL: Londsdale Event Rentals & Sie Collection |  DRESS: IDO Studio |  HAIR + MUA: Blaire of IDO Studio |  INVITATIONS + MENU: Making Memories with Stationery |  MODEL: Coco Miko | VENUE: The Loft at the Earls Yaletown