I love a downtown wedding, and Cheyanne and Ahmad's was a highlight of my 2023 season. It was a beautiful wedding filled with so much love and special moments with their family and friends, but it stands out because these two are a blast to hang out with for an entire day. We first met in person during their engagement session and instantly hit it off. It felt like friends hanging out rather than a photographer and their clients. We all agreed we could have spent that entire evening together. I was really looking forward to their wedding, and it didn't disappoint.

 

The day began with getting-ready photos, first at Cheyanne and Ahmad's house with the guys. I like to start with the groom and groomsmen first, since these photos take less time than the bride and bridesmaids. Next, I made my way to the Residence Inn by Marriott in downtown Calgary, where Cheyanne and her bridesmaids were getting ready. The pace of the morning was nice and relaxed, with both the bride and groom having plenty of time to prepare for the big day and spend time with their closest people.

 

Theirs was one of the first weddings at the Calgary Residence Inn by Marriott, and it's a beautiful space to host a celebration at. The stunning lobby staircase provided the perfect setting for their first look, which was one of the sweetest I've ever witnessed. I may have shed a tear or two as well), and it's clear how much admiration and respect they have for one another. Afterwards, we met up with the wedding party for portraits around the hotel. Cheyanne and Ahmad wanted to embrace the city feel of their wedding day, which meant we didn't have to go far for portraits and could maximize our time before the ceremony.

 

The ceremony took place in front of their closest friends and family, with beautiful floor-to-ceiling views of downtown Calgary behind them. There were plenty of laughs and tears and so much joy during the ceremony. One of their groomsmen married them too, which provided an extra-special touch to the day.

 

Family photos and cocktails followed before the lively reception got underway. Lottie Weddings did a beautiful job designing the decor for the space and made sure the whole day went off without a hitch. The dancefloor was full the entire time I was there, and I'm sure the party lasted well into the night. I'm so happy I was able to play a role in this special wedding!

 

Congratulations, Cheyanne and Ahmad!

 

Tips for a Downtown Calgary Wedding

• Embrace the setting. Make use of unexpected and unique locations. We used the parking lo, alleyway and hotel lobby staircase for Cheyanne and Ahmad's portraits. We were on a tight timeline and they wanted to stick close to the venue. There are fantastic rooftop parkades downtown, along with murals, vintage buildings and fun alleyways that make excellent backdrops for wedding photos. Your Calgary wedding photographer will scout locations beforehand. I always like to run locations by my couple before the wedding so we're all on the same page. 
• Be mindful of traffic and parking. Traffic, construction, and parking can derail even the most organized wedding timelines. Consider booking transportation to avoid having to drive and park multiple vehicles.
• Consider the time of year. Check the calendar for major festivals and events, like the Calgary Stampede. Hotels and venues are often more expensive during this time, and there's a huge influx in traffic.

 

 

Calgary Vendor Team

Coordination: Lottie Weddings

Calgary Wedding Photographer: Meaghan Baxter Photography

Venue: Residence Inn by Marriott

Flowers: Besties Floral Cafe

Hair and Makeup: Trisha Gader