A Rustic Wedding at The Barn at Lions Garden Estate, East of Edmonton, Alberta.
A lovely day with Kiersten & Donnie at the wonderful Lions Garden Estate, located 30 minutes east of Edmonton.
We first met Kiersten over facetime just a few weeks prior to her and Donnie’s big day! They were searching for someone local to photograph their entire wedding day, on short-ish notice who matched their style…and we were SO happy that we fit the bill! Kiersten & Donnie, like many couples, were forced to postpone, cancel and compromise their initial plans due to the (then) newly-implemented covid restrictions, however, they were hopeful and prepared for the day when they were able to proceed-they literally had a 5'' binder with everything a bride and groom could possibly need in detail-in the end-it was planned and came together in just a few day-it was impressive to say the least! It wasn’t until the day prior to their big day that we had the pleasure to meet them in person and let me tell you that these two are completely head over heels in LOVE with each other!
About a week before the wedding we arrived at Lions Garden to do a walkthrough of the venue, where we were greeted by the friendly owners Klaske and René. Klaske did a very thorough walkthrough of their property, showing us the popular spots and the more downplayed spots, both of which we utilized on the wedding day as well as the history of the property and their own story. She was very knowledgable when it came to where the light fell which, as photographers, was so appreciated! This venue really does have so much to offer from the Barn to the Tamarack ceremony location, to the pond, which has a fountain-this location gives you more options than you could ever imagine! There are olive trees, rolling hills, horses...even an orchard! Klaske and René are very hands-on and there for your every need (or question) and we HIGHLY recommend the location as it’s beautiful but, more so, them as they are lovely and professional!
The Barn at Lions Garden Estate is beauty in itself-it is a photographer’s playground! It’s completely rustic from floor to ceiling, with a large bar and a furnished bridal suite upstairs-it is beautiful! You’ll arrive via a gravel path, passing horses and a converted grain silo that is one cool outdoor bar where, on the wedding day, has a grassy area which is set-up with many outdoor games to keep everybody entertained! As you are making your way to the Tamarack ceremony area-you’ll pass a quaint little orchard which is an understated place to take photos, by a pond with a fountain…which keeps one refreshed on the hottest of days (I’m sure Alex would tell you all about it!), then you’ll arrive at the gates, walk down a woodchip-lined path that is flanked by wagon wheel benches and fresh grass and to a wonderfully crafted rustic wooden gazebo where the magic happens! There are flowers all over the property which provide such a wonderful atmosphere, bringing everything together, just as this venue does people!
Fast forward to the BIG DAY! It was a HOT one! As I arrived at the girls location and Alex where the boys were-there was this buzz in the air…the buzz of anticipation and excitement of the upcoming nuptials of two best friends! Personally, I really enjoy the getting ready part of the day not only for the detail shots but also due to the excitement, anticipation (and sometimes chaos) but mostly for the natural and intimate moments between family and friends. It is also where our day begins, where we gain a better perspective on the relationships between friends and families, the bride and groom as individuals but, more importantly, them as a couple. Having two photographers is truly a major bonus because it allows us the opportunity to take individual pieces of a puzzle, assemble them as the day progresses and, ultimately, telling a story; the wonderfully sweet story of Kiersten & Donnie.
This day was not only filled with an abundance of joy and laughter from beginning to end, but also with emotion, from dad’s first look at his ‘petite fille’ (little girl) where there was not a dry eye in the house, myself included (as this was a moment that I will never have the pleasure to experience myself) to very sweet vows which were shared intimately between only them, both of which will remain two of my all-time favourite moments and we are both honoured to have had the opportunity ( and pleasure) to be able to capture for them for years to come!
We had many opportunities throughout this day to mark some of our ‘dream shots’ off our list, which is always an incredible feeling! As photographers we want to integrate ourselves into the crowd and try not to be overbearing, seizing moments as much as we can-one of these moments is an absolute favourite; golden hour. We waited for a moment where we were able to discreetly whisk the bride and groom away for a mini golden hour session which made for some awesome photos that we are so very proud of! To any future brides (and grooms) it is really important to put time aside for intimate moments such as golden hour, vows, etc. to truly be able to capture one of a kind, true emotional moments.
“Everything you need will come to you at the perfect time”
