I recently had the privilege of photographing Harry and Sarah’s Nanaimo Beach Wedding (technically it was Lantzville, BC but very close to Nanaimo). It was such a special event! As a photographer, I have a very specific role at weddings, but in the case of Sarah and Harry’s wedding, I could not help but begin to feel just like old friends by the end of it. I even found myself sad to leave all the fun. I am excited share with you the details of their love story and wedding:

Some people say that “home is wherever I am with you.” It seems to me this means that for some people home is no specific place, rather ‘home’ is defined by the people that make them feel safe, comfortable, and loved. For Harry and Sarah’s wedding weekend, they made a home for all their guests. They offered complete hospitality as guests camped out for the whole weekend of festivities.

It is no wonder that Harry and Sarah wanted to fully incorporate their friends into their wedding weekend. After all, it was through a mutual friend that they met. Harry was roommates with a nearly lifelong friend of Sarah’s. When Harry’s roommate/Sarah’s childhood friend invited them both out to a Giant’s game, the two met. According to Sarah, they were immediately drawn to one another.

Sarah says that she was initially impressed with Harry’s motivation, confidence, and independence. Meanwhile, Harry was drawn to Sarah’s positivity, confidence, and her unique ability to “put Best Man Ryan in his place, when not many people can.” Today, Harry and Sarah describe themselves as being each other’s best friends. They enjoy talking about their goals and planning their futures together.

Yet, they also know how to live in the moment by spending time with friends, hosting family in their home, going out, being active, and sometimes just binge watching Supernatural or Marvel movies. They shared with me that they enjoy just being themselves and being comfortable with each other. They also love to share many laughs together, which was apparent throughout their wedding day.

The wedding day was really a photographer’s dream. Harry and Sarah took a DIY approach by hosting the event at her family’s private residence. It was a beautiful location complete with rich green trees, a lovely beach, and spectacular sunset views. No detail was overlooked at the ceremony or reception, and every detail was perfectly matched with the beauty of the natural surroundings.

The day started with the bride and groom readying themselves along with their closest friends. I could already tell that everyone was in great spirits as there was a lot of laughter being shared by all. The sharing of spirits was made even easier as the groom gifted his groomsmen with classy personalized flasks! Meanwhile, there were fun lawn games going on outdoors to help guests stay entertained.

The ceremony occurred outdoors, where the bride and groom were greeted with perfect weather. I especially appreciated the monochromatic coloring of the bridal party’s attire. The bridesmaids wore a light blue, while the groomsmen wore navy. The colors looked fabulous against the blues of the sky and the water. Of course, the bride looked radiant in a light and airy dress, perfect for the outdoor setting.

The reception had a great vibe—a mix of rustic, chic, country, and just plain fun. There were lots of great moments that led right into a dance party. As is often the case, some of my favorite moments occurred during the couple’s sunset portrait session. Harry and Sarah are such a sweet and loving couple. In those newlywedded sunset moments, it was clear that together, wherever they go, they are home.

This wedding was made seriously lovely by the following great team of vendors
Venue: Private Family Property in Lantzville, BC on Vancouver Island.
Florist: Linda Marshall from West Coast Wishes Events
Cake Artist: A Wee Cup Cakery
Hair Artist: Kelsey Hartnell
Make-Up Artist: Cathalino Bayben
Wedding dress: Designed by Lillian West and purchased at Sposa Wedding World


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