It’s the height of summer in Fort McMurray and the wildfires are raging. The whole town has been evacuated and her wedding dress is still inside the house. The expression of ‘grab and go’ brings a whole new meaning when you are planning a destination wedding.

Hugh and Kailey had quite a journey to get to their wedding day at the stunning Rimrock Resort and Hotel in Banff. They met a little later in life and knew they were just the right person for each other. Originally from opposite ends of the country, it left them to plan a destination wedding and they landed on Banff, AB.

With all the details being planned, Mother Nature decided to intercede and the Fort McMurray wild fires began. They were displaced from their home for just over a month. Luckily they had their dogs with them and the camera that is usually left at home to keep an eye on the dogs, instead kept an eye on the house and giving them peace of mind seeing it still standing (with the wedding dress inside!).

Finally it was time to head to Banff and the Rimock Resort and Hotel to meet their friends and family that came from all over Canada to celebrate their wedding. The dress made it too! Their joy was contagious, and Kailey’s smile is impossible to resist.

As a wedding photographer I have witnessed many couples say “I do” and it’s a privilege each and every time. That said, sometimes it’s extra special for one reason or another. When Hugh and Kailey took those vows in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, it was extra special for me.

The ceremony was on the terasse of the hotel in the shadow of the great Mountains. Hugh and Kailey had eyes only for each other and smiles so big I was worried their faces might not contain them.

We then went to the glacial waters of Lake Minnewanka for photos of a lifetime. Returning to a lovely greeting by their guests, the reception kicked off with speeches from family and bridal party. Continuing the good times thanks to the entertaining emcee skills provided by a close family friend, Robyn. The night ended with parent dances that saw both laughter and heart-warming tears. This was a wedding for the storybooks.

Xoxo

Val