I think one of the reasons why Brendan and Nicole's West Vancouver engagement session stands out to me, is because there's such a serene confidence captured here. Confidence in their own skin as individuals and confidence in their relationship as a couple. No one trying to be someone they're not or pose in a way that feels awkward and unnatural--they're just being...themselves....
Read MoreWhen Canadian couples think of destination weddings outside of the country, locales like Cuba, Mexico, and elsewhere in the Caribbean usually come to mind. But the United States is also chock full of gorgeous destination spots that would make for exotic destination wedding/honeymoon combinations.
The Isle of Palms, a beach where this shoot took place, is located near Charleston, South Carolina which offers everything from the warm(er) Atlantic ocean, to historic plantations, to promenades lined with oak trees dripping with Spanish moss....
Read MoreA groom's well-tailored suit, a bride's wind-swept tresses and her lace décolletage--these things will never go out of style. If you're wondering how to ensure timeless wedding day style, start with elements such as these and generations to come will look back upon your images and, rather than cringe at the dated attire, appreciate the classic beauty and refined style you chose to emphasize. But most of all, they'll look back and cherish the love, the commitment, and the joy you shared on your wedding day. And that's what matters most right? Rebecca Amber did a beautiful job of capturing the warm embraces and uncontrived emotion at the heart of this brisk and blustery wedding day, in Pitt Meadows, British Columbia. Images to savour and pass down, to be sure.
Read MoreGreat light beckons me to give images more than a passing glance The light invites me to linger. And as I give pause, I discover more details about the photographs before me: a tender exchange, a knowing look, a sweet yet simmering excitement that bursts, 'We did it! We're married!'. These kinds of images find cracks in our memory banks and settle in for a lifetime, reminding us to pursue that same love for ourselves and have it captured with the same delicacy and style as was done here. Lodged in our hearts, we long for the same, and when we find it....oh the joy!
Jessica + Dakota's Cannon Beach elopement photographed by Toronto wedding photographer Caileigh Kyle beseeched me to look longer and appreciate the nuances of every image....
Read MoreHere at Vale + Vine, I'm delighted to see so much that I love celebrated with restrained elegance this Christmas Day. Simple wreaths, adorned with ribbon and calligraphic artistry, styled to ensure their dignified, natural beauty is emphasized. The rustic beauty of a Canadian Christmas is just that, a season where the landscape and its elements around us are embraced and celebrated. There is something to be said for acknowledging that which is most humble, lest it be overlooked. Just like a tribe of lowly shepherds who found the greatest delight in a humble manger, I too need to remember to celebrate the essence of Christmas, in all its simple, sustaining glory.
Read MoreI thought this lavish garden wedding photographed by Ameris with florals by Clare Day was a perfect post to showcase as we head into a week of holiday celebrations. From Christmas Eve to New Year's, I can't think of a better time of year to feature golden details amidst a formal table setting, florals full of heirloom style, and a venue that conjures up old-world romance. And sequins. 'Tis the season for sequins. Enjoy your festivities this coming week!
Read MoreWhen Edmonton wedding planner Mona Abosaid of Birds + Honey sent me her own anniversary session captured on film by Maria Lamb of Anthem Photography, I thought to myself, 'Well this is nowhere near Edmonton!'. Indeed it is not. While it could be any number of places on Canada's west coast, it's actually on the Wahclella Falls Trail in Oregon's Columbia Gorge. Juxtaposed with the dramatic beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the English garden inspiration behind Mona's florals and wardrobe adds an unexpected layer of complexity to the shoot. I also love that Mona, who has been married for over a decade, truly believes every anniversary needs to be celebrated (which I absolutely agree with), and I'm so honoured to share a glimpse of that celebration here on Vale + Vine.
Read MoreIf you notice something familiar about this crisp Vancouver shoreline session by Christie Graham Photography, that's because you've seen both model Cody Cochrane, and jewelry designs by Anne Sportun, featured on Vale + Vine before. Christie's Cozy Winter Wedding Inspiration shoot was one of Vale + Vine's first posts showcasing Christie's photography, and every time her work comes across my desk, my eyes light up because I know something unexpected is about to come my way. This time: debonair attire for a dapper urban groom blended with the flowing, floral style of a West Coast free-spirit. A perfect blend of what Vancouver style represents -- a total comfort with all that is both urban and natural.
Read MoreSometimes it's just good to be inspired by something a little different right? Not necessarily something bridal. Give the lace and tulle a little rest to refresh our creative juices with imagery and ideas that remind us that beauty is a blessing and that nature has the ability to cleanse our minds and draw out our most authentic, beautiful selves. That's why here at Vale + Vine, I want to give brides and vendors a little reprieve once in a while...something unexpected and lovely that speaks to me, and in turn perhaps speaks to you.
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