Here are some photos from Rachel and Sam’s wedding last summer in the Saanich Peninsula area of Victoria BC. As lovers of nature and the outdoors, it was important that we document the first look and wedding party portraits in a location that R&S not only love and felt connected to, but is also wild and beautiful.

They chose the old growth forest of John Dean Provincial Park to share their first look, which definitely did not disappoint! It was in the middle of an empty forest trail that they had their “first look” where Rachel came up behind Sam, and he excitedly turned around and to see his bride for the first time on their wedding day.

From there, we continued through the old growth and around the pond. I noticed a log sticking out of the water that appeared to be well worn on top from curious hikers walking out onto it. Naturally, Rachel and Sam couldn’t resist doing it themselves! After some time well spent taking photos in John Dean Park, plus a stop at the beach, the wedding party and myself continued on to the backyard ceremony location in North Saanich.

The ceremony went off without a hitch, and before we knew it the June afternoon has become evening, as everyone mingled, enjoyed beer, and played lawn games. And I’m pretty sure the giant jenga was a hit!

The reception festivities continued on in the tent, as family and friends were seated down two long rows of harvest tables, decorated with fresh table garlands, candle sticks in brass holders, and golden animals. The buffet dinner was served on-site by Toque Catering, along with the tower of delicious miniature pies and ice cream for dessert.

Wedding Dress: Kathryn Bass Bridal

Catering: Toque Catering

Table Decor Rentals: Party Mood

Marriage Commissioner: Michael Denton

Bride and groom first look on wedding day in the forest
Bride and groom hugging
Bride and groom on a log
Bride and groom woodsy first look
Bride and groom standing and touching foreheads
Bride and groom walking down a forest trail
Wedding party portrait in old growth forest
Back of brides wedding dress
Bride and groom portraits in the forest
Bride and groom walking through an old growth forest
Best wedding photo locations in Victoria BC
Boutonniere, bridal bouquet, and wedding hairstyle details
Bride and groom portrait on the beach
Decorated wedding arch and welcome sign
Bride getting ready before the wedding ceremony
Backyard wedding ceremony in Victoria BC
Backyard wedding ceremony
Backyard wedding ceremony in Saanich BC
Ring exchange between bride and groom
First kiss under decorated arch
Bride and groom just married
Backyard wedding reception decorated tent
Animal table number holders and brass candle holders
Simple backyard wedding decor harvest table
Tented backyard wedding reception decorations
Gold animal table number holder
Polaroid wedding guest book
Kid wearing suspenders playing with bubbles
Platter of food backyard wedding reception Toque Catering
Harvest table wedding reception
Wedding cheers backyard reception
Harvest table backyard wedding reception
Bride and groom grand entrance wedding reception
Harvest table wedding reception under tent
Harvest table backyard wedding reception
Wedding mini pies
Rustic woodland pie tower
Wedding guests enjoying pie and wine
Wedding guests socializing
Wedding guests dancing
Wedding guests having fun during backyard reception
Wedding guests dancing at reception
Bride and Groom dancing at wedding reception