Duane & Danielle, June 10, 2017

When I arrived at Danielle’s home, she and her bridesmaids were bustling around putting finishing touches on hair and chasing busy toddlers with sticky hands. The day was supposed to include a beautiful outdoor ceremony on a farm near Gull Lake but the clouds were heavy and dark overhead and the forecast called for rain all day. I expected to find an upset bride making frantic phone calls to move the ceremony to the reception space. Instead, there was Danielle, relaxed and beaming as her hair was pinned in place.

Family and friends were soon texting asking if they were supposed to pack up and move everything indoors. Danielle simply instructed her bridesmaids to tell everyone, “Get yo’ asses to the ceremony site!” Apparently, we were braving the rain.

The ceremony site was a sea of colourful, mismatched umbrellas. Benches were wiped down, coats were zipped up to the chin, and Duane lit up as he saw Danielle approach him down the aisle. As the ceremony progressed, so did the intensity of the rain but Duane and Danielle smiled through it all. By the end, the entire bridal party was soaked.

Somehow, just in time for portraits, the sun came back out. Despite the forecast, by the end of the day, there was not a cloud in the sky. I couldn’t believe it. By the reception, many of the guests chose to stand outside during breaks to soak up some sunshine. Lincoln Hall looked incredible. The woodland theme made for beautiful branch centerpieces and the twinkly lights added warm bokeh to the photos.

Like most wedding days, this one had it’s bumps. The ceremony had to halt midway to grab the rings left on the bus. Their 2 year old, Isabelle, had zero interest in being photographed (but we definitely got some cute shots!), and the ladies hair was coming undone within a few minutes in the rain. Let’s be honest – most brides don’t dream of pouring rain on their wedding day. Duane and Danielle just laughed.

I admire the way these two take on challenges. Instead of worrying, they spent the day enjoying each other and their little girl, their loved ones, and all of their hard work. To be so happy together no matter the circumstances – that’s the dream.

Thank you both so much for including me in your special day. It was an amazing adventure!

All portraits taken at Meridian Beach on Gull Lake and at Lincoln Hall.

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Hair: Kristy’s Hair, Ponoka

Make-up: Brenna Skjonsberg HMUA, Ponoka

Bride’s Dress: David’s Bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses: Your Wedding Place, Red Deer

Menswear: Moores for Men, Red Deer

Florist: Calyx Floral Design, Red Deer

Officiant: Marvin Pickering, Red Deer

Videographer: Mouse and Cheese Productions, Red Deer

Limo/Party Bus: Arrow Limousine, Red Deer