One of my favourite parts of being a Fraser Valley wedding photographer is getting to know my couples long before the wedding day. Engagement sessions aren't just about creating beautiful photos—they're about building a connection, getting comfortable in front of the camera, and celebrating this exciting chapter together.
For Shannon and Ryan's engagement session, we met at the beautiful Jackson Farm Reserve in Maple Ridge, and it couldn't have been a more perfect setting. With its winding trails, towering trees, open fields, and peaceful natural surroundings, Jackson Farm Reserve offers a little bit of everything. It's one of those hidden gems that provides a stunning backdrop in every season and is a fantastic location for couples looking for engagement photos that feel relaxed, romantic, and authentic.
From the moment we started exploring the trails, it was easy to see how naturally these two fit together. They spent the evening laughing, chatting, and simply enjoying each other's company. Those are always my favourite sessions because the best photographs happen when couples forget about the camera and focus on each other.
As we wandered through the park, talking about their upcoming wedding, their excitement was contagious. In just a short time, these two will be saying "I do" at one of the Lower Mainland's most beautiful wedding venues—Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club in South Surrey.
Why Shannon & Ryan Chose Hazelmere for Their Wedding
Finding the perfect wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you'll make while planning your wedding, and Shannon and Ryan couldn't have picked a more beautiful location.
Hazelmere Golf & Tennis Club has become one of the premier wedding venues in Surrey thanks to its beautifully manicured grounds, mature trees, elegant banquet spaces, and peaceful setting tucked away in the scenic Hazelmere Valley. Whether you're planning an intimate celebration or a larger gathering, Hazelmere offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options, making it an incredible venue throughout the year.
One of the things couples love most about Hazelmere is that everything can happen in one location. From getting ready to the ceremony, cocktail hour, portraits, and reception, the day flows seamlessly while guests enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Why Hazelmere is Perfect for Wedding Photography
As a wedding photographer, I always get excited when couples tell me they're getting married at Hazelmere.
The property offers incredible variety without ever leaving the venue, making it easy to create a diverse wedding gallery without spending valuable time driving between locations.
Some of my favourite features include:
- Beautiful tree-lined pathways
- Lush gardens and landscaped grounds
- Peaceful ponds and charming bridges
- Perfectly maintained golf course views
- Gorgeous golden-hour light
- Elegant reception spaces
- Classic West Coast scenery
Because everything is located on-site, Shannon and Ryan will be able to spend more time celebrating with family and friends while still receiving an incredible collection of portraits.
Why We Love Engagement Sessions
One of the biggest benefits of an engagement session is that it gives couples a chance to slow down and enjoy being together before the excitement of the wedding day arrives.
It also helps you become comfortable in front of the camera. By the time Shannon and Ryan arrive at Hazelmere on their wedding day, they'll already know exactly what to expect. They'll know how I photograph, how I guide them naturally, and that they don't need to worry about awkward poses or forced smiles.
Instead, they'll simply get to enjoy every moment together while I capture their story as it unfolds.
Looking Ahead to Their Wedding Day
If their engagement session at Jackson Farm Reserve is any indication, Shannon and Ryan's wedding is going to be filled with laughter, genuine moments, and so much love.
Between the beautiful setting at Hazelmere, the incredible people who will surround them, and the connection they already share, I know their wedding day is going to be unforgettable.
Congratulations again, Shannon and Ryan! Thank you for trusting me to capture such an exciting season of your lives. I can't wait to celebrate alongside you both at Hazelmere and document every incredible moment of your wedding day.
Looking for a Fraser Valley Wedding Photographer?
Whether you're planning an engagement session or wedding in the Fraser Valley, I'd love to tell your story.
My goal is to create timeless, genuine photographs that allow you to relive every laugh, every happy tear, and every unforgettable moment for years to come.
If you're looking for a photographer who values authentic connections and beautiful storytelling, I'd love to connect and hear all about your wedding plans.
Athena
🍃Wild Sage Photography
