Captured on digital and 35mm film, Michelle and Emilio planned a rustic-luxe wedding in the Okanagan Valley + boy-oh-boy was it special. From getting ready in a beautiful cabin on a nearby lake, to the vast valley backdrop of their venue — the whole day was beyond picturesque. 

It was a gorgeous sunny day, and the couple + their wedding party spent the morning swimming in the lake. Think summer camp vibes: endless sunshine, best friends, water splashing, lots of laughs. If you ask me, seems like a pretty great way to spend the morning of your wedding morning. Eventually everyone started getting ready, and Michelle and Emilio wrote down their vows. The couple had a first look, and then helped each other put their veil and bowtie on. I loved the mix of having that first special moment, as well as then helping each other get ready. 

Michelle is a wedding photographer herself, so every decision about the day was made intentionally. Everything from taking care of her guests, to the details and timeline — she had thought of it all. Knowing that sunset in June wasn't till around 9pm — Michelle planned for a much later ceremony time than usual. We shot the wedding party photos and some couples portraits in a gorgeous open space just before the venue. It looked and felt like something out of the wild west, with a vast openness and vivid brightness to it. 

By the time the ceremony rolled around, the harsh sun had passed and the light was just right. It wasn't too hot or bright, but just right. Their vows to each other were heartfelt and bursting with love. The rest of the evening followed suit, with speeches full of love and admiration for the couple. Everyone present was truly so happy to be there, including me —❤️‍🔥


 

Michelle + Emilio

Kamloops, BC

25.06.22