Some weddings feel like a story you’ve been waiting your whole life to tell — and Rachel & Rob’s Island Lake Lodge wedding was one of them. Set against the untouched alpine beauty of Fernie, BC, this day was a perfect blend of nostalgia, presence, and unfiltered emotion. It all felt simple in the best way — no rush, just the sound of the lake, the smell of the forest, and their people all in one place.
They had traveled from Colorado with their closest friends and family, ready to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and soak in every second of this place. As a Fernie wedding photographer, these are the days I live for — when the location is stunning, but the feeling is what you remember most.
Why Island Lake Lodge Was the Perfect Choice
Rachel & Rob had spent years exploring BC and other parts of the world together, from hiking trails to quiet lakesides, so they wanted a wedding that felt relaxed and connected to nature. Island Lake Lodge, with its alpine lake, surrounding peaks, and lush forest, offered the perfect backdrop for a day that was all about presence and shared moments with their closet crew.
The lodge itself is a mix of cozy and grand — a place where the mountains feel close, the water reflects the sky, and the forest edges create pockets of quiet. On August 9, 2025, sunlight filtered through the trees, the mountains stood tall in the distance, and the space held a gentle, effortless rhythm that set the tone for the entire day.
A Day Rooted in Presence
From the beginning, Rachel & Rob made it clear: they wanted to be fully present. No rushing from one timeline item to the next. No over-scripting. Just space to feel it all — the laughter, the happy tears, the warmth of their best people around them.
Their first look by the lake was quiet and intimate, a moment just for the two of them before the ceremony. Later, at the ceremony itself, they shared deeply personal vows, read with trembling voices in front of their family and friends, framed by the Lizard Range. Every guest mattered, and every glance, laugh, and tear contributed to the story of their day.
Rachel’s Personal Touch – Every detail reflected their vision, including the wedding invitations and stationery, which Rachel designed herself. Her thoughtful designs added a unique, personal layer to the day.
It wasn’t just a wedding. It was a gathering of their people in a place that told their story.
Film & Digital Photography: A Timeless Blend
For Rachel & Rob’s day, I captured images both digitally and on film, creating a mix of textures and tones that tell the story in a way that feels both immediate and timeless. Film adds a depth and nostalgia to the moments, while digital ensures every detail and fleeting glance is preserved.
My approach to weddings is always intentional — finding beauty in both the grand and quiet moments. From Rachel’s veil drifting in the lake breeze to the laughter during speeches, each image captures the essence of the day in a way that will feel alive for decades.
Favorite Moments from Rachel & Rob’s Island Lake Lodge Wedding
- The First Look – The way they exhaled when they saw each other. The nervous energy melting into pure joy.
- The Moment After Their Vows – After they were married, they looked out at their people, both with tears in their eyes. That quiet, full-of-love glance was a highlight of the day.
- Golden Hour in the Mountains – Just before dinner, we wandered onto the grass with the Lizard range in the backdrop, and the light turned the entire valley gold.
- The Indoor Dance Floor – Their four friends DJ’ed the night, filling the lodge with music, vibes, and energy as everyone celebrated together.
Planning Your Own Island Lake Lodge Wedding
If you’re dreaming of a wedding here, here are a few tipsIf you’re dreaming of a wedding at Island Lake Lodge, here are a few tips from my experience photographing couples in this stunning alpine setting:
- Think About Film – The textures and tones of film complement the natural surroundings beautifully, adding depth and nostalgia to your images.
- Embrace the Light – Golden hour in August is pure magic. Plan portraits around that time for the softest, most flattering light.
- Carve Out Quiet Moments – Take a walk by the lake or find a hidden trail for intimate portraits away from the crowd.
As a BC wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot of beautiful venues, but Island Lake Lodge has a rare ability to feel both grand and deeply personal.
From the Couple
“We are just beyond grateful that we found you… and even more grateful that we got to meet you in person. There is truly no one else we could have imagined photographing our day. You are unbelievably talented, but beyond that, you made it feel like we were just hanging out with a friend who happened to be capturing every single beautiful, emotional, hilarious and meaningful moment.
You are the sweetest soul and it shows in every frame. We honestly can’t believe how lucky we are that it was you behind the camera. Thank you for sharing your art, your kindness and your energy with us. We will cherish these images forever“ — Rachel & Rob
Island Lake Lodge Wedding Vendors
- Photography: Sam Hornquist Photography
- Videography: Brenna Films
- Venue: Island Lake Lodge, Fernie BC
- Florals: Moonlight Flowers
- Dress: Grace Loves Lace
- Suit: Suit Supply
- Hair Stylist: Sleeks by Josshi
- Makeup Artist: JilLe Makeup Design
- Planner/Coordinator: Coco & Ash
- Veil: Harriett Falvey
If your dream is to be fully present on your wedding day — to feel the mountain breeze, the warmth of your people, and the heartbeat of a place you love — I’d be honored to tell your story.
Let’s make it unforgettable.
Inquire here to book your BC or Alberta wedding photographer!
