Some wedding stories stay with you forever.
Not just because of the beautiful details, incredible people, or unforgettable moments—but because they become part of your own story too. Augustina and Brandon's wedding in Steelhead, Mission BC, was one of those weddings.
From Wedding Guests to Wedding Clients
Last year, I was photographing a wedding at Langley Golf Course when I noticed a couple who stood out to me during candid photos of the guests. They were effortlessly connected, always smiling, always close together, and so genuinely sweet with one another. As a wedding photographer, I’m naturally drawn to authentic moments, and these two were a dream to photograph.
A few months later, I received an inquiry from Augustina. I immediately recognized her and was excited to learn that she was one half of the adorable couple I had photographed as wedding guests.
We met in person and spent time talking about her wedding vision, her love for photography, her beloved pups, and of course, her fiancé Brandon. By the end of our meeting, we had built an instant connection, and I was honoured when she chose me to document one of the most important days of their lives.
Throughout the planning process, I knew their wedding would take place at her future sister-in-law’s family property in Steelhead, Mission.
What I didn't know was just how meaningful that location would become.
A Wedding Venue That Changed Everything
Steelhead has always held a special place in my heart.
As a teenager, my family lived on an acreage there, surrounded by nature, trails, and some of my most treasured childhood memories. It was where my family spent countless hours together, and where my mom created memories that I still carry with me today.
My mom passed away nearly 15 years ago, and although I have often wanted to revisit that property, it sits hidden behind a long driveway, completely out of view from the road. Over the years, it became a place that existed mostly in memories and old photographs.
Then, during Augustina and Brandon’s final wedding planning questionnaire, I found out the address where their ceremony would be.
I froze.
It was my childhood home.
The property where my family had lived.
The property where so many memories of my mom were made.
The odds felt impossible.
As soon as I realized it, I reached out to Augustina with tears in my eyes. Happy tears. Emotional tears. I explained the significance of the property and asked if there was any possibility of visiting before the wedding day.
I knew that after 28 years away, stepping back onto that land would bring a flood of emotions, and I wanted to process those feelings before arriving with cameras in hand on their wedding day.
A Journey Back in Time
Two weeks before the wedding, Augustina's future sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Candace and Lance, graciously welcomed me onto the property. Their kindness is something I will never forget.
I brought along an old photo album filled with images of the property from when my family lived there. Walking around with those photos in hand felt surreal.
So much had changed.
Candace and Lance had transformed the property beautifully, thoughtfully updating the home and creating stunning outdoor spaces while still preserving the heart of the land.
Then I saw it.
The bridge.
A small bridge my parents had built all those years ago.
It was older now. A little weathered. Maybe a little less stable than I remembered.
But it was still there.
I stood looking at it and immediately thought of my mom. I have photographs of her standing on that very bridge, pausing during her walks around the acreage to take in the beauty around her. Of everything that had changed over nearly three decades, that bridge remained.
And somehow, it felt like a piece of home.
A Beautiful Wedding Day in Steelhead, Mission BC
When the wedding day arrived, I felt ready. Instead of being overwhelmed by memories, I was excited. Excited to return to this meaningful place with my camera and document one of the most important days in Augustina and Brandon's lives.
The day itself was absolutely beautiful. The natural surroundings of Steelhead created the perfect backdrop, and Augustina's wedding colours blended seamlessly with the lush greenery and peaceful landscape.
The energy throughout the morning was incredible. Their wedding party was fun, supportive, and full of laughter, making every moment of getting ready feel effortless and joyful.
Inside the home, photographing Augustina as she prepared for the day felt especially meaningful. The same walls that once held memories of my family were now witnessing the beginning of a new chapter for another family.
Private Vows with a View
Before the ceremony, Augustina and Brandon shared private vows together at a lookout point. Just the two of them taking a moment away from the excitement of the day to connect and share promises they had written from the heart.
These are often some of my favourite moments to photograph because they allow couples to fully be themselves without an audience. The emotion was genuine, and the setting couldn't have been more perfect.
An Outdoor Ceremony Surrounded by Nature
Candace and Lance had beautifully landscaped the ceremony area, creating an outdoor wedding space that felt both elegant and deeply connected to nature.
Surrounded by family, friends, and towering trees, Augustina and Brandon exchanged vows in one of the most picturesque ceremony settings imaginable.
Every detail felt intentional.
Every moment felt meaningful.
And every guest could feel the love surrounding them.
Celebrating at Steelhead Community Hall
Following the ceremony, everyone made their way to Steelhead Community Hall, located just down the road from the family property. Nestled amongst nature, the hall was the perfect reception venue for their relaxed and fun-loving celebration. The atmosphere was incredible from the moment guests arrived. The food was amazing, the dance floor was packed, and the energy never slowed down.
One of the most unique details of the evening was Augustina's decision to bring in her favourite tattoo artist, Guapo Hidalgo from Captain's Tattoo Company. He set up a tattoo station during the reception, offering flash tattoos to guests throughout the evening. For some guests, it was their very first tattoo. How often can you say you got your first tattoo at a wedding?
It was such a creative and unforgettable experience that perfectly reflected Augustina and Brandon's personalities.
A Wedding I Will Never Forget
From photographing them as wedding guests one year to documenting their own wedding day the next, this journey with Augustina and Brandon has been incredibly special.
Not only did I have the privilege of capturing their love story, but they unknowingly brought me back to a place that holds some of my most treasured memories.
Their wedding reminded me how beautifully life can come full circle.
The relationships I built with them, their families, and their loved ones are something I will always cherish.
And having the opportunity to step foot once again on the property that holds so many memories of my mom is something I will carry with me forever.
Augustina and Brandon, thank you for trusting me with your wedding day.
Thank you for your kindness, your friendship, and for allowing me to be part of such an incredible chapter in your lives. I wish you both a lifetime filled with love, adventure, laughter, and happiness.
Your wedding will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will be forever grateful for the memories we created together.
Athena
🍃Wild Sage Photography
