I don’t even know where to start with this one….to say that it was a game changer would be a massive understatement, and to shout from the rooftops how excited I am to see it in Pacific Weddings, wouldn’t be enough!  Back in April, I had one of the most fun days of my career, and I still get a big smile on my face every time I think about it!  And to have it gracing the pages of one of the most beautiful wedding magazines out there (and a TRUE personal favourite of mine,  as if you know me, you know I love all things Hawaii, and that is where Pacific Wedding’s roots are found!) is just utter perfection!  When they approached us, asking if they could feature this shoot in their newest edition, I had to actually pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming!!  Thank you SOOO much to the team there for welcoming us all with opening arms, and also for the A-team here in Victoria, for being just so dang good at what you do!! There are so many wonderful vendors that contributed to the success of this shoot, and so please take the time to look through their work…and definitely make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom, as we have a fabulous behind the scenes video for you to take a look at.

xo
Barb

Photography: Christie Graham Photography
Planning: French Kiss Events
Florals & Decor: Verbena Floral Design
Paper Goods: Tuktu Paper Co.
Dress: Anna Campbell, from The White Peony
Groom’s Attire: Citizen Clothing
Hair: Conscious Hair by Elena
Makeup: Beauty & Style by Erin Bradley
Cinematography: Cassie O’Neil Cinematography
Cake: Ruth & Dean
Treats: Mexi Pops
Surfboards: ANIAN
Textiles: Coral & Tusk and Liberty London

**All images in this post courtesy of Christie Graham Photography**

“On the West Coast of Canada, we are continually surrounded by amazing, natural beauty. It’s a place where surf culture thrives and many celebrations are enjoyed on our magnificent beaches all along the rugged coastline. For this styled shoot, we showcased creative pieces and colors you would find at various authentic Vancouver Island beach festivities, drew inspiration from the small surf towns along the way and juxtaposed them with the vivid colors and patterns found in Morocco.

With a whopping team of 10 vendors and 2 models (including a male surfer who is actually from Morocco!!), we set out on a 45-minute hike, through our temperate rain forest and over suspension bridges, we finally set up camp on Mystic Beach. The model wore an Anna Campbell gown that struck the perfect balance between the glamour of Morocco and the laid back essence of the West Coast. Feathers blowing in the coastal wind can be spotted throughout, from the custom-made headpiece to the feather posy’s scattered on the tablescape. The vibrant colors found in Coral & Tusk’s table runner became our palette for the shoot, and were complimented by the Liberty London fabrics used for the pillows on the beach. Rich tones of yellow, orange, pink, and raspberry red were used in the abundant florals (garden roses, anemones, poppies, carnations and kumquats).

A naked cake with floral accents was the perfect combination of natural beauty and handcrafted elegance. Yogurt filled delights from Mexi Pops Italian cart were the perfect addition for strolling through the forest to the ceremony location.  Beautiful locally made, hand-shaped surfboards from Anian Surfboards set the tone of the shoot, giving this boho-inspired wedding a light-hearted and creative edge. Hand drawn stationary in festive colours, custom beer label favours and motorcycle name cards made this styled shoot young, fun and truly West Coast eclectic.”

And many, MANY thanks, to Elena’s husband extraordinaire, who hung out with us all day, and cooked us a delicious stew, right on the beach!  Can you think of a better way to spend your day?