Banff Wedding Photographers
Mariana & Craig
Elegant Wedding at the Fairmont Banff Springs
This elegant wedding at the Fairmont Banff Springs was such an incredible day. The Banff Springs has a rich history in this pretty mountain town and is affectionately known as the Castle in the Rockies. Originally built in 1888 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, this interesting building is one of Canada’s last standing Railway hotels. Walking through the grand hallways you are presented with picturesque mountain views through every ornate window. These are only a few of the reasons why it is truly is a magical place to get married.
Changing Plans and an Unpredictable Year
This couple are two of the most thoughtful and kind humans we have had the pleasure to meet. Their deep connection and care for each other was such an honour to witness and we both feel so lucky that they chose us to be the photographers to create all of these memories of their day in the mountains. We first met these two for their sunrise hiking engagement session earlier in the summer. They both met working at the same company and connected quickly through their shared love of travel and good food. It was incredibly important for them to have their family with them on their wedding day and Covid presented a few challenges throughout the planning process. As their dates, guest lists and plans changed multiple times, they persevered and ended up having a perfect day!
A Romantic Ceremony in Mount Stephen Hall
Mariana and Craig had a vision for their day and it was so stunning! An elegant and classic theme was considered through every last detail. Pops of blue styled into the decor were carried through so beautifully in the mountain landscapes surrounding them. Including the icy blue of the glacier-fed rivers and lakes in Banff National Park.
The day began in the Strathcona Room where the girls were getting ready. A balcony overlooked Mount Stephen Hall where the ceremony space was being decorated in pillars of flowers. Alegro YYC was setting up and rehearsing their songs, echoing throughout the hundred-year-old walls. It set the romantic mood for the day to come.
Letters were shared to one another in the morning. Words expressing how excited they were for this day to finally be here. This day, made even more special by the difficult year they both had. We think it’s fair to say this wedding was worth postponing 3 times to get to this incredible day! The emotion in the room and love for these two was so beautiful to witness and capture through these images.
Craig walked down the aisle with their excited pup Peanut while Mariana held her father’s arm down the grand spiral staircase. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room when Mariana entered the room. She was absolutely stunning! We all watched as these two sweet souls shared words, exchanged rings and signed the documents necessary to be legally wed. After their ceremony, Mariana and Craig decided to share their first dance in the open ballroom. Serenaded by the musical duo playing their song. It was magic.
The Most Beautiful Summer Portraits Exploring Banff National Park
After the ceremony, we made our way outside to explore Banff National Park for their portraits. A beautiful blue classic car pulled up to the doors on the Fairmont. Mariana’s parents had surprised them with a stylish ride for the afternoon! We cruised along the mountain roads and found some incredible locations for their portraits together. By the shores of the Bow River and through to Lake Minnewanka where the mountains tower over the lakeside views. Banff was really showing off that day!
An Elegant Candlelit Reception
When we re-entered Mt Steven hall it was completely transformed to reveal their reception space. Two long tables were adorned with greenery and candles with the bride and grooms sweetheart table centred between the two. Rose petals marked out a giant M symbolizing their new joined name at the other side of the room. Everyone cheered as the newlyweds entered the room. Following their grand entrance, the evening flowed perfectly between delicious courses and heartfelt speeches. Desert was a platter of Brazilian deserts paying tribute to Mariana’s family heritage. The night closed with dancing and a sparkler send-off. Every moment and every detail was such a joy to photograph and we hope you enjoy looking through their story.
Vendors:
Venue: Fairmont Banff Springs
Photography: Willow and Wolf
Videography: Parfait Productions
Wedding Coordinator: KLM Events
Rings and Earrings: custom made by Marlow Design
Dress and veil: Designer Stephanie Allin, Bought at Blush and Raven
Alterations: Ingenuity Couture
Her shoes: Bella Belle
Hair and Makeup: Maison Blu
Tux: Hugo Boss, Bought at Harry Rosen
His shoes: Hugo Boss
His Bow tie: Tom Ford
His watch: Tag Heuer, bought at Birks
Flowers: Stemza and Mountaintop Flowers
Dj: Lux Music Entertainment
Sweets: Maos di Minas
Rentals: Chair Flair and Mountain Event Rentals
Live Music: Allegro YYC: Piano – Rebecca Minczuk Cardoso Cello – Natalie Minczuk Prando