Congratulations to Sandee and Robinson, who tied the knot in front of their closest family and friends at the beautiful River Cafe in downtown Calgary. The River Cafe is nestled into the picturesque surroundings at Prince’s Island Park, and these two had perfect weather for their outdoor ceremony, where they incorporated personal touches like heartfelt thank-you’s to their parents, before a delicious dinner (shout out to the River Cafe team), speeches, and plenty of dancing. The surrounding scenery at Prince's Island Park is perfect for wedding portraits too, so there's no need to travel anywhere else in the city (unless you have somewhere special in mind).

The day began with a traditional tea ceremony at Sandee’s parents’ home, where Robinson (Rob) and his groomsmen had to pass a series of tests before they could even walk through the door. The bridesmaids put them through their paces, but they managed. This was my first tea ceremony, and it was really special to be welcomed into the fold by Sandee's family and friends for this important tradition.

 

The wedding day was very relaxed, which was a nice change of pace. Many wedding parties don''t make time to unwind during the day, but this group did. After the tea ceremony, we went to Rob and Sandee's home for lunch and some candid photos with the wedding party and close family members. I always advise making time to eat during your wedding day! It goes by so quickly, and many couples forget to eat and hydrate until dinner.

 

The couple's ceremony was held on the grounds outside the River Cafe, which is a beautiful setting for a ceremony. You may get some onlookers as people walk by, so be prepared for that if you're shy! Sandee had changed dresses for the ceremony, so we did some portraits with the wedding party and couples' portraits with Rob post-ceremony. The River Cafe is one of Calgary's top restaurants, so I knew the reception would be a memorable one. The dinner was one of the best I've had at a wedding — it's always a treat when vendors get to eat the same thing as the guests — and the service was impeccable. Dinner was followed by speeches and the shoe game before guests danced the night away. Receptions are always one of my favourite parts of the day. Everyone's on a high from all the happiness of a wedding, and they forget about the cameras — this is also true during ceremonies.

 

Congratulations, Sandee and Rob!

 

Tips for a Wedding on Prince's Island Park

• Consider the time of year. It's a busy place in the summer, and several major festivals are held there each year. This can mean bigger crowds, less privacy, and trickier parking for guests.
• Hire transportation for you and your wedding party. This will make it easier to travel from place to place downtown, especially if you want to go off-site for photography.
• Arrange a separate getting-ready space. The River Cafe doesn't have a designated getting-ready space for wedding parties, so that will need to be done at a nearby hotel,  Airbnb or your home.
• Pets are allowed during ceremonies, but you'll need prior approval from the venue.

 

The River Cafe Wedding Venue Info

Capacity: 100 seated, 150 - 200 cocktail
Catering: On-site, plated or buffet (brunch, lunch, and dinner options available)

Minimum Spend: Yes

Outside Decor: Yes, but restrictions may apply. You'll have access to all of the furniture in The River Cafe when you book.

Transportation & Parking: There is no parking on-site, so you'll need to park elsewhere and walk across the river to the venue. A rideshare app or public transport is recommended to avoid busy parking lots.