When you think of a beautiful intimate venue for a smaller wedding, Minnekhada Lodge has to come to mind! Ramona and Matthew chose the ideal venue for their summer wedding….situated in the middle of the forest, with grandiose views all around, it was the perfect place for this beautiful couple!
Setting up wedding at Minnekhada Lodge
Ramona and Matthew had the best army of friends helping out with the details when I arrived in the morning, and were putting together everything from the tables and chair covers to the balloons and reception decorations….it was a beautiful team effort!
As the lodge has 2 large rooms on either end of the building where the bride and groom can get ready respectively, Ramona and her bridesmaids set up there and begin to get ready. Matthew and his groomsmen eventually (after finishing set up of the chairs for the ceremony) got up to their room as well and got ready. It was awesome to see everyone do what they could to help the couple out.. they have great friends!
Outdoor Ceremony at Minnekhada Lodge
With the guests having arrived, the ceremony, held just outside the front door, began. Ramona walked down the aisle with her mom at her side, and Ramona and Matthew exchanged beautiful vows before signing the papers to make it official! The clouds parted a bit as they shared their first kiss, and were announced as husband and wife!
Family photos and group portraits followed, with me taking the wedding party for a short walk to the iconic red bridge a few feet away, where we got some great portraits of both sides of the wedding party, and where Matthew caught a frog with his bare hands… yes, actually! It was such a funny moment!
Ramona and Matthew hopped into my car after that, and we drove down to the road leading up to the Lodge, where the light was shining just perfectly on the cute single lane path, making for the ideal setting for bridal portraits….I was in light heaven! We even saw a mama bear and 3 cubs as we drove back to the reception.
Upon arrival back at the Lodge, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal, the maid of honour and best man shared touching words (from the heard, and from paper!), and Ramona and Matthew cut their wedding cake, and even shared it with all their guests! A few songs later, the dance floor was hopping, and people of all ages were celebrating with the newly married couple.
To Ramona and Matthew,
Thank you for bringing me along to document the most special day in your lives to date, and making me feel right at home with all your family and friends… I loved celebrating with you! Wishing you two nothing but the best in your future together as husband and wife!
Their Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Andrew Lukianiuk Photography
Venue: Minnekhada Lodge, Coquitlam
Makeup: Kelly Newman
Catering: Austin Gourmet Catering
Officiant: Gaylene Shapka
Rentals: Celebration Party Rentals