LOVE COMES FULL CIRCLE
From one wedding in 2022 to two more in 2024, I had the immense privilege of photographing not just three weddings -- but three love stories within one incredible family. The catch? Each wedding belonged to one of three siblings. There is truly no greater honour than being entrusted time and time again to capture such intimate, once-in-a-lifetime moments. To witness each couple grow in their love, to see new babies added to the mix, and to be welcomed back like family -- it fills me with a gratitude that’s hard to put into words. The youngest of the trio, Dahves, was now ready to take the next step with the love of his life, Emily. These two are the kind of people whose energy lights up every space they enter. Individually, they’re charming, charismatic, and kind. But together? There’s something truly electric. Their connection is palpable -- like watching the final piece of a beautiful puzzle fall into place.
Their wedding day began with a visit to the getting-ready space where Dahves and his family were gathered. I was immediately wrapped in a familiar sense of warmth and welcome -- greeted first by one of my past grooms from February, who lit up while sharing the exciting news of their new baby girl. His eyes sparkled as he spoke not only of his daughter, but of his brother-in-law’s newborn as well. There’s something so moving about hearing a father speak about his child with such pride and love -- it instantly set the tone for the entire day. Inside, the atmosphere was full of laughter, nostalgia, and camaraderie. Three brothers and a favorite cousin (by both blood and marriage) were suiting up for the third and final wedding in their family. Watching them work together, with help from their parents, brought back memories of the previous two weddings I had the joy of documenting. It felt like the closing chapter of a story I’ve had the privilege of reading front to back—one full of love, growth, and milestones.
Next, it was time to meet up with Emily. I had heard there would be a few extra special guests joining us -- those sweet little babies I had seen as dreams on wedding days past were now being held in the arms of two of my former brides, glowing as new mothers. It was such a full-circle moment, seeing those once-blushing brides now cradling their daughters, as beautiful as ever. Then Emily walked in. Quiet beauty radiates from her, but when she smiles? It’s absolutely magnetic. There’s a softness to her spirit and a grace in her presence that made documenting her part of the day a joy. As she and her bridesmaids began getting ready, we all collaborated to gather the details -- her gown, jewelry, shoes -- for those carefully crafted shots that tell the story behind the style. The final moments with her mother helping her into her dress were tender and unforgettable. Emily stood there, glowing in a modern and elegant gown that seemed made just for her. I knew the moment Dahves saw her, it would be one for the memory books.
Their ceremony took place in a tiny, charming church southeast of Blairmore, Alberta. With room for only 30 guests, it was as intimate and cozy as it was meaningful. A wood-burning stove provided warmth as friends and family filled the pews, hearts open and eager for the ceremony to begin. And just as I predicted, Dahves' reaction to Emily was everything -- his awe, reverence, and deep love visible in every expression. The officiant, the same one who had married the other two siblings, led the ceremony with heartfelt words on faith and marriage. As the couple sealed their vows with a kiss, the church erupted in applause and love. It was clear that this union was not just a joining of two people -- but a celebration of two families and an entire community of support.
After the ceremony, we stepped outside into the cool Alberta air for portraits. Though the sky wasn’t a vivid blue, the overcast clouds brought a dramatic, moody depth that elevated every image. Alongside the church, in wild fields brushed with thorns and a nearby river, Emily and Dahves embraced the adventurous side of their love story. One of our portrait locations was the iconic Burmis Tree -- a twisted and weathered limber pine estimated to be 600–750 years old. With the wind howling and temperatures dropping, Emily’s veil danced in the air, hair whipping around her face as she held onto Dahves. The result was a series of breathtakingly raw and romantic images -- some of the most moving I’ve ever had the pleasure of capturing.
From there, we made our way to Frank Slide, a historic and somber landmark in Crowsnest Pass. Amidst the boulders and beneath the fading evening light, we created a final series of portraits. The rubble of the mountain added a powerful element to the images -- symbolic, in a way, of enduring love rising even through hardship and time.
With fingers frozen and hearts full, we headed to the Crowsnest Pass Golf Club for the reception. As guests gathered and the bride and groom made their entrance, the love in the room was almost tangible. Family surrounded them with open arms, laughter echoed through the venue, and joy only multiplied as the evening wore on. This wedding wasn’t just a day -- it was the culmination of a journey, the closing of a chapter, and the start of a new one for Emily and Dahves. And for me, it was a reminder of why I do what I do. Of how lucky I am to witness not just moments -- but milestones. And to be welcomed, again and again, into stories that I will never forget.
VENUE: Crowsnest Pass Golf Club (@cnp_golf)
DRESS: Magic Moments Bridal (@magicmomentsbridalmh)
SUIT: The Bridal Centre (@thebridalcentre)
RINGS: Mareta's Fine Jewellery (@maretasfinejewellery)
FLOWERS: Brooks Greenhouses (@brooksgreenhousesflowershop)
HAIR: Trix Hair Studio
OFFICIANT: Alvin Penner
