Van and Kevin have spent most of their relationship traveling throughout the world such as their kindling trip to Iceland and Pairs. Naturally, they dreamed of eloping in the place they feel most alive and present, in the outdoors. On June 15, 2022 that dream became a reality as they stood on top of a mountain overlooking Lake Louise in Banff National Park at sunrise to say their vows.
The epic day began early in the morning at 2AM (yes you read that right, AM). Van got ready in their cozy cabin at The Storm Mountain Lodge, where her friends helped do her makeup and hair. Once everyone was bundled up, we headed to the base of Lake Louise where we would start our five and a half mile hike to Little Beehive. With head lamps on and eager hearts to start the day, we headed up the mountain as the sun rose slowly illuminating the mountain tops.
Once at Little Beehive, everyone changed into their formal attire. Van was simply stunning and radiating with bliss as she wore a previously loved secondhand dress from Still White and greenery crown from a local florist in Calgary, Oasis Flower Shop. Kevin looked dapper and fresh in his personal suit from Suit Supply. Everyone was bursting with excitement that Kevin literally jumped around for their first look to see his soon to be wife. Their friend Jessica officiated their ceremony and did so beautifully. With unique touches such as sharing a cup of warm tea with everyone present and sharing their own vows, which brought tears to everyone’s eyes. After a lovely celebration, it was time to get warm again so we started our trek to Lake Agnes Teahouse. With warm granola cookies and comforting tea, we recharged before heading down the rest of the way to Lake Louise. Lunch was in order and their bridal party came prepared with sandwiches. All fueled up again, Van and Kevin decided to go on a classic boat ride on the stunning waters of Lake Louise from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Boathouse. The waters were refreshingly cold from the freshly melted snow top mountains and the newly weds beamed with happiness canoeing along the mountain base.
After a well deserved afternoon rest period, we all regrouped for a luxury picnic complete with light charcuterie board snacks and giggle juice wine. Everyone in the bridal party gave a heartfelt speech that truly touched Van and Kevin. It was so sentimental and special that everyone present truly would move mountains and hike them for their dear friends. Laughter and stories filled the Canadian air as everyone gathered around the campfire until the late hours of evening. With Chicago locally made s’mores filled bellies and toasted toes, it was time to go to bed, although the day seemed like a dream…
It was such an extraordinary honor to be present on Van and Kevin’s elopement. The day was so humbling to be able to document such an authentic, deep love with people that I truly felt connected to. Van and Kevin, I’d climb mountains with you any day.
⋒ Vendors ⋒
Photographer: @dawnpointstudios
Lodge: Storm Mountain Lodge @storm_mountain_lodge
Officiant: Jessica Pan
Invitation: Flower Seed Paper
PJs: @sani
Wedding Dress: Still White @stillwhite
Picnic dress: Rent the Runway @renttherunway
Van’s hiking boots: @obozfootwear
Kevin’s hiking boots: @dannerboots
Everyone’s hiking socks: @darntoughvermont Tough
Hiking backpacks: @cotopaxi
Suit: Suit Supply @suitsupply
Kevin’s band: Wedgewood Rings @wedgewoodrings
Van’s engagement ring and band: Vrai @vraiofficial
Flower crowns: Oasis Flower Shop (Calgary)
Luxury picnic: Banff Grazing Co. @banffgrazeco
S’mores kits: XO Marshmallow @xo.marshmallow
Boat Rental: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Boathouse @fairmontcll
Tea House: Lake Agnes Teahouse @lakeagnesteahouse
