Vancouver Island Wedding Stories & Resources

the blog

A collection of real weddings, lifestyle sessions, and practical resources to help you plan a day that feels natural, intentional, and truly your own.

Featured posts

Couple laying in the grass during their couples session near Black Rock Resort in Ucluelet by Latitude 49 photography

Discover the best Vancouver Island engagement photo locations — from moody forests to cinematic beaches — curated for couples who crave romance, nature, and timeless beauty.

13 Best Engagement Photo Locations on Vancouver Island

Bride and groom in editorial pose on their wedding day

A heartfelt backyard wedding in Merville, BC, surrounded by forest, florals, and family — a day filled with love, laughter, and timeless West Coast charm.

Intimate Backyard Wedding in Merville, British Columbia

Wedding party for a palliative bride during their wedding at Comox Valley Hospital by Latitude 49 photography

On a quiet June afternoon, Stephanie and Torian’s love story unfolded inside Comox Valley Hospital. Their palliative wedding was arranged in less than a day, a true testament to resilience, community, and the beauty of love that refuses to wait. Surrounded by family, friends, and compassionate staff, the couple exchanged vows in the therapeutic gardens. There were no timelines, no elaborate décor—only authentic love in its purest form. This wedding was a reminder that the most powerful celebrations are not defined by details but by connection. It was an honour to witness and capture such a sacred moment, one that will remain unforgettable.

A Palliative Wedding at Comox Valley Hospital

Dakota and James walking on the rocks during their engagement session in Nanoose by Latitude 49 Photography

A golden-hour engagement session at Es-hw Sme~nts Community Park in Nanoose Bay, capturing Dakota and James’ love story surrounded by ocean views and west coast magic.

Nanoose Bay Engagement: Love by the Waves

Couple on the rocky beach near Kye Bay during their engagement session by Latitude 49 photography

A heartfelt engagement and family session on Vancouver Island for Erica and Andrew before their destination wedding in Mexico — full of laughter, warmth, and golden light.

Vancouver Island to Mexico and an Engagement Session Story

details photo of cake and rings during a wedding after cake cutting at 40 knots bakery by Latitude 49 photography

Feeling overwhelmed by wedding planning? You’re not alone. Many couples dive into the process with excitement, only to realize how quickly the decisions pile up. One of the best ways to reduce stress and keep things organized is to understand the order in which to book your vendors. When you have a clear plan, the entire journey feels more intentional and less overwhelming.

The first step almost always begins with your venue. Once you secure the location and date, everything else can fall into place. After that, it’s time to book your photographer and planner or coordinator. These vendors often fill their calendars quickly, so locking them in early ensures you’ll have the team you want by your side. From there, focus on catering, florals, music, and other creative professionals who bring personality and beauty to your day.

By following a thoughtful order, you avoid last-minute stress and can enjoy the planning process. Each decision builds upon the next, giving you confidence that your wedding will run smoothly. These guides are here to help you stay organized, book with intention, and create a celebration that feels effortless, elevated, and true to your vision.

When to Book Your Wedding Vendors: The Ultimate Timeline

Santa at Holly Hill Farm in Campbell River during the Christmas Stable by Latitude 49 photography

Santa at Holly Hill Farm in Campbell River brought holiday magic to life this past Christmas season. From November 23 to December 15, families gathered for festive sessions filled with joy, laughter, and timeless memories. Photographing these sessions was about more than portraits—it was about capturing the connection and spirit that make the holidays so meaningful.

Holly Hill Farm transformed into a true winter wonderland. Twinkling lights illuminated the barn, rustic décor created warmth, and families gathered around a beautifully decorated tree. The setting felt straight out of a holiday film, designed to preserve the wonder of the season.

Santa himself made the experience unforgettable. From wide-eyed children meeting him for the first time to parents and grandparents sharing in the joy, every moment was full of magic. Even the farm animals joined in, donkeys in festive hats and curious goats adding extra charm.

Every photograph told a story—babies in awe, children whispering wishes, and even families sharing special announcements. These sessions were more than seasonal photos; they were celebrations of love, community, and the joy of slowing down to create memories together.

Santa at Holly Hill Farm: A Magical Christmas in Campbell River

bride and grooms looking over the Comox Valley during their sunrise helicopter Elopement near the Comox Glacier by Latitude 49 photography

Every photographer has a dream list of destinations, and these are mine. Each location combines breathtaking landscapes with the chance to tell a love story that feels cinematic, intentional, and unforgettable. From misty coastlines to golden cliffs, these places inspire creativity and connection.

Banff’s alpine lakes, Santorini’s glowing sunsets, and Scotland’s Isle of Skye bring romance to life with every frame. Yosemite, Big Sur, and Joshua Tree offer wild, dramatic backdrops for couples who crave adventure. Across the ocean, the Amalfi Coast and Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher set the stage for elegance and timeless beauty. Closer to home, Tofino remains one of my most beloved spots, with its rugged beaches and Pacific sunsets.

These destinations are more than dream backdrops. They are places where couples can feel fully present, grounded, and connected to each other. That’s why they sit at the top of my ultimate wish list.

If one of these locations is part of your vision, I would love to capture it. You cover the travel, and the photography is my gift to you. Together, we can create something extraordinary.

My Ultimate Dream Destination Wedding List

Couple walking on the beach during their engagement session at the Oyster River trails by Latitude 49 photography

Discover Cassie and Jon’s romantic engagement session along the Oyster River Trail, blending forest charm, ocean views, and a love story five years in the making.

Oyster River Engagement on Vancouver Island

Kathryn and Airell during their engagement session at Airforce beach by Latitude 49 photography

Explore Kathryn and Airell’s romantic forest and beach engagement session in Campbell River, filled with adventure, laughter, and golden light by the ocean.

Forest and Beach Engagement on Vancouver Island

MEET SARAH

Behind the Lens

Based on Vancouver Island, my work is inspired by atmosphere, light, and the subtle moments that often go unnoticed.

Rather than directing every frame, I focus on observing what is already there. The connection, the movement, the quiet energy of a moment as it unfolds.

The result is imagery that feels cinematic, refined, and deeply grounded in reality.

the SEVEN MINUTE TIMELINE BUILDER

A simple tool designed to help you build a wedding timeline that actually works.

In just a few minutes, you will create a timeline that allows for natural light, meaningful moments, and a relaxed flow from start to finish.

Built specifically for Vancouver Island weddings, so your day feels intentional, not rushed.

Build your Timeline