Quarry Lake Wedding // Chanel + Zachary

Quarry Lake Wedding, Banff Gondola photos and The Sensory reception.

A Quarry Lake Wedding ceremony, wedding photos at the top of the Banff Gondola and a reception at The Sensory. All these elements helped to set the scene for a beautiful day in Canmore, Alberta for Chanel and Zac. But the thing that brings it all to life always, is people, and these two were surrounded by them. Each and every person there was invested in the love and joy of this couple. From tears to gut laughs, everywhere I looked all day people were honest in their emotions. This is my absolute favourite and it was a joy to capture.

The Day

Zac and Chanel got ready at Basecamp Resorts, keeping things simple and easy for the morning. They didn’t have a wedding party, but their dog Millie made for the cutest ring bearer. Meaningful gifts were exchanged, including a photo of Zac’s dad who had passed that Chanel had made by hand. Zac pinned it inside his jacket, making whoever he showed it to all day, emotional but happy.

We then headed to Quarry Lake Park for an emotional ceremony. Married by Cole was an amazing officiant (as always). He had everyone laughing and crying as he shared the couple’s story. Their vows kept that ball rolling before the rings were exchanged and papers were signed. Before they sealed the deal, they raised a shot of Zachary’s dad’s favourite drink in honour of him. Cue more tears and more joy as his presence was felt. They then smooched, celebrated, took some photos with friends and fam, then celebrated some more.

The Photos

It was at this point that we were supposed to zip off to a HELICOPTER! We were SO. EXCITED. We had been planning, talking and thinking about it for over a year. But right before we went to leave, their planner, Maren, let me know it was no go. My stomach bottomed out and I couldn’t believe it! There were no pilots willing to take off in the conditions. It was windy, with worse on the way, and between that and the haze, it wasn’t happening. Thankfully Maren (THAT ANGEL) was already working on a solution. It took her all of two minutes to call the Gondola in Banff and make a new plan.

Turned out there was juuuust enough time to drive to Banff and back. So she bought the tickets, got them to us and sent us on our way! Personally? I think we did pretty damn good considering the complete switch of plans haha.

I feel that I cannot stress how calm, present and wonderful Zac and Chan were about it all. They went with the flow, trusted their vendors and had a great time lovin and livin it up at the top of the world.

Now I think I’m officially rambling, but I love my couples so *ahem* I shall continue.

The Evening

The Sensory in Canmore was a beautiful reception space. The patio was epic and the food was top 3 for me in 2025. It was so good I took photos! The vibes were immaculate. The laughs were big, the tears were juicy and every interaction was heartfelt. From intentional speeches to unexpected chair lifts, I loved shooting this day.

I will finish by saying one of my favourite things they did was their place settings. Chanel and Zac had written a letter to every. Single. Guest. It’s a testament to not only the benefits of having a more intimate wedding, but also to them. To their thoughtfulness, authenticity and beautiful (inside and out) selves.

Mine is still hung up in my office and I will keep it always.

AND NOW THAT THE NOVEL IS COMPLETE! Go! Enjoy! And I hope all of the above comes through.

xxo

For more wedding goodness click here.

Planner: Maren at Bow Valley Weddings (she’s an absolute rockstar)

Reception Venue: The Sensory in Canmore

Officiant: Married by Cole