July 23, 2023
Hilary and Shay had the most gorgeous elopement earlier this year - and I even got to see a sneak peek of those photos, oh-my-gosh-gorgeous! - and now it was time to celebrate with all their family and friends! While Shay is originally from the Okanagan, her and her bride, and many of their guests, made the trek across the border for this party. They picked the perfect venue to dazzle their out of town guests with Bench 1775, which has stunning panoramic views of vineyards and Okanagan Lake.
I got to start the day off with the brides and their mamas. Since their first looks had long been over, there was a super sweet "togetherness" in getting ready. We kicked the day off with a champagne toast, and then I snuck ahead of Hilary and Shay to catch a few details of their venue and some fun moments with their guests before their arrival.
Now if you know the Okanagan in the summer, you'll know that July-August have become the fire season. Luckily we didn't have the crazy smoke that often drifts in, so that stunning view was on full display. The July heat was also on full display, and I think everyone got a few new tan lines to remember the day with! With umbrellas for every table, plenty of cool drinks, and the lower field open for games and strolls through the shady vineyard, it was a perfect evening. Speeches brought tears and laughter, champagne was showered, and cake devoured - the perfect celebration for a couple who are very obviously a perfect pairing.
