I always get excited when a couple books me for a wedding at The Gathered. This gorgeous venue is found about half an hour north of Calgary near the town of Kathryn. I love the outdoor setting, which is especially stunning when all of their sunflowers and wildflowers are in bloom, and the food at The Gathered is some of the best I've had at any wedding. It's farm-to-table and never disappoints.

 

This wedding was also special because I've known the bride for about seven years now. We worked together at a marketing agency and quickly became friends. She and Steven now live in London, England, but we still keep in touch. I still remember the day she went on her first date with Steven, and it's been fun to watch their relationship grow over the years — right up to photographing their engagement session during sunrise in Kananaskis Country and now their wedding, where they celebrated with a group of their nearest and dearest.

 

Kendra and Steven both decided to do getting-ready photos. I joined Steven and the guys for Caesars and pool at Kendra's dad's house before walking down the street to their close family friend's gorgeous home to meet Kendra and the ladies. Kendra's mother passed away about ten years ago, but she was still very present on Kendra's wedding day. Kendra tied a locket with her photo around her bouquet and incorporated butterflies — her mom's favourite — into her cathedral veil and a butterfly release at the ceremony. She even saw a group of white butterflies on the morning of her wedding.

 

We did a first look with Kendra's bridesmaids, which included her sister and longtime friends from childhood, before doing the big reveal with Steven. I always love the anticipation before a first look and seeing how each partner reacts. Steven delivered!

 

Portraits were delayed thanks to an unexpected downpour right after the first look, but Kendra and Steven took that opportunity to hang out with their wedding party and relax before everything got underway. Calgary weather is always a little bit unpredictable, so I highly recommend having a rain plan in the summer — you never know.

 

The rain disappeared for the ceremony, which was held under big blue skies, included personalized vows and a reading from Kendra's oldest friend. Cocktail hour followed with lawn games, signature drinks (aperol spritz) and appetizers before their delicious dinner. The party kicked off with a conga line — which I've never seen at a wedding — and lasted well into the night with tons of dancing and great music.

 

Congratulations, Kendra and Steven!

 

Vendors

Venue: The Gathered

Planning & Design: Fiore Fine Events

Video: Eli Clark

Hair: @sarahmychajliv

Makeup: Smudge & Smoulder

Signage: Double Naute Design

Florals: Lavish YYC