When couples think about their wedding day, there’s often this pressure to follow tradition—big venues, styled details, endless portraits. But Molly and Kent’s wedding in Fernie was a beautiful reminder that your day can look however you want it to. As a Fernie Wedding Photographer, I see so many couples redefining what a wedding should be, and this celebration was the perfect example of presence over performance.
A Ceremony That Felt Like Them
Molly and Kent exchanged vows at James White Park, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Their ceremony space was simple and heartfelt—just a fabric backdrop swaying in the breeze, proving that you don’t need elaborate décor for a moment to feel meaningful. The beauty of it all was in its honesty—simple, intentional, and entirely theirs.
Choosing People Over Portraits
Instead of hours of posed portraits, Molly and Kent wanted to be with their people. We spent just a little time capturing them together, tucked between tall trees, before heading back to their guests. It was refreshing to witness a couple so sure of their priorities: connection, conversation, and presence.
As a BC Wedding Photographer, I always encourage my couples to plan a day that reflects them. If portraits matter most, we’ll create time for them. But if your heart is in sharing the day with your community—like Molly and Kent—you don’t have to compromise.
A Reception at The Castle on First
At The Castle on First in downtown Fernie, Molly & Kent hosted 50 of their favorite people for an intimate, sans alcohol reception. Guests enjoyed signature mocktails and a family-style meal around one long table, catered by Fernie Catering Co, while laughter, heartfelt toasts, and connection filled the space. Their cake? A simple Dairy Queen ice cream cake. And honestly, it was perfect. Weddings don’t need a five-tiered cake to feel special; sometimes the most nostalgic choices are the most meaningful.
Why Fernie is Perfect for Anti-Bride Weddings
Fernie has this way of encouraging couples to write their own rules. Maybe it’s the laid-back mountain vibe, or maybe it’s the small-town charm where everyone knows everyone—but it’s the kind of place where your wedding doesn’t need to fit inside a box.
For couples like Molly and Kent, who wanted something non-traditional, Fernie offered the perfect backdrop: quiet parks for heartfelt ceremonies, cozy venues like The Castle on First, and plenty of space for a celebration that feels grounded and intentional.
If you’re leaning into the anti-bride mindset—wanting something simple, nostalgic, or totally unique—Fernie is one of the best places in BC to make it happen.
Local Fernie Wedding Vendors
A wedding this meaningful doesn’t happen without community. Here are a few of the local touches that made Molly & Kent’s day so special:
- Ceremony Location: James White Park
- Reception Venue: The Castle on First
- Cake: Dairy Queen (yes, and it was the hit of the night!)
- Catering: Fernie Catering Co.
- Music: Naena Robinson Music
Supporting local venues and vendors is one of my favorite parts of being a Fernie Wedding Photographer—it makes every wedding feel deeply rooted in place.
FAQ: Planning an Unconventional Fernie Wedding
Can I have a small wedding in Fernie?
Absolutely. Fernie is full of intimate venues and outdoor spaces that are perfect for weddings under 75 guests. Check out my blog post here all about Fernie wedding venues!
What if I don’t want traditional portraits?
That’s totally fine. We’ll carve out as little or as much time as you want for portraits—it’s your day, and your people come first.
Do I have to follow traditional timelines?
Not at all. Whether you want to skip certain traditions or add in your own, I’ll help you craft a flow that feels effortless and true to you.
The Heart of Fernie Weddings
Molly and Kent’s celebration is proof that there’s no right way to get married. Whether you’re planning something bold and unconventional or quiet and simple, Fernie is a place that holds space for it all—the mountains, the community, and the laid-back vibe all encourage you to write your own rules.
If you’re searching for a Fernie Wedding Photographer who values real connection, film-inspired storytelling, and all the unposed, imperfect moments in between—I’d love to hear from you. Your wedding doesn’t need to fit the mold; it just needs to feel like you. Get in touch here!
