Fire season is here in the Okanagan. This topic comes up a lot in conversations with brides and grooms as they are planning their wedding day. Especially since the Kelowna area is a popular spot for destination weddings, couples are not sure what to expect when it comes to the smoke that sometimes can hit the valley. Will the photos be okay? Will I get that Okanagan lake view? Will we be able to see the mountains? All these are good questions as I know one of the big reasons for getting married here is the beauty the area offers.
Well let me show you by means of a blog.
I was the photographer for this Kelowna Wedding back in 2017. I was in conversation a lot with Rebecca as her wedding approached about how important the view was for their special day. James and Rebecca were coming all the way from Ontario to say I do with the Okanagan Valley as their backdrop and specifically chose Sanctuary Gardens because of the magnificent view this venue offers. But wild fires broke out and smoke hit the alley. She was worried about what this would look like. And this is where I will be honest. Us Kelowna photographers don't know what it will look like until we wake up that day. The wind or rain can either push smoke out or bring it in. It could be blue skies one second and socked in smoke the next. Rebecca and James day... socked in smoke. She was nervous but I assured her we will get magical photos no matter what. Weddings ultimately are about the love between two people and I always focus on that aspect and the background just adds to the image. This is where I say to take a deep breath and trust me. And let me show you what trusting me looks like and how magical a smoky day wedding can be.
Getting Ready // Manteo Resort
Ceremony Venue // Sanctuary Gardens
Reception Venue // Eldorado Hotel
Hair and Makeup // Faye Smith Makeup
Florals // Lavender and Lace Floral Farm & Design
