The Schnieders had the most beautiful destination wedding in Banff National Park. Banff has always had a mark on Beau’s heart so it was only natural that he took Hannah and introduced her to the pristine mountains and vibrant lakes. She loved it, because how can you not, and they decided on a destination wedding surrounded by the most naturally beautiful scenes one can imagine.
It wasn’t without a bit of panic when, 20 minutes out from their Bow Lake ceremony site, it became obvious that rain was coming. When you’re that deep into the park you obviously don’t have cell service, so checking weather isn’t an option. I was silently freaking out (and getting so mad at the universe) in the back seat, Beau was silently freaking out in the front seat and when he finally brought up the fact that it was NOT looking good, I wanted to, simply, die. Kidding, of course. When we arrived, I had a quick conference with Hannah, who was fine with pushing forward (god love her) and confirmed that plan with Matt, the videographer, who was the positive voice we all needed.
They said their personal vows in front of their immediate family while the wind whipped Hannah’s veil and we experienced at least 3 seasons, all in that 10 minutes. It was perfect, though, and the rain DID move out, leaving us with the most perfect golden hour for portraits at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake.
I’ve tried, but I don’t think I’ll ever be able to thank Hannah and Beau properly for trusting me enough to fly me to another country to capture their day. I would literally climb mountains for the two of you—and kind of did. I plan to write something on a personal level about our trip, but I’ll start with this: Banff is incredible. Beauty literally stares you in the face at every turn, to a point that you almost stop noticing. If you’ve been thinking about going, just plan it.
I feel like I say this on an annual basis, but I will never comprehend the places this career has taken me and the wonderful people it’s brought into my life. Endlessly thankful, grateful and humbled by that trust.
Before I turn you loose to all these beautiful photos, I would like to state for the class that I didn’t adjust the color of these glacier lakes in ANY photos. They really are that beautiful. More beautiful in real life, to be honest. I also didn’t, and never do, fake any of that veil movement! The shots at Peyto were the universe saying sorry for going through 3 seasons during the ceremony.
- Hannah’s Gown: Ella Park Bridal
- Beau’s Custom Suit: Stephan Sanders
- Videography: Hearts in Reverie
- Hannah’s bouquet: Banff Mountaintop Flowers
See more destination weddings here! I’d love to chat about capturing your wedding, wherever it takes place!
