Whether blanketed in winter snow or dressed with wildflowers, the Canadian Rocky Mountains are definitely a dramatic backdrop for a wedding. Lake Minnewanka wedding photos are some of my favorites. Towering peaks rise from the emerald waters (or in this case, ice) of the glacier-fed lake. Either way, it’s breathtaking!
History of Lake Minnewanka
According to the Parks Canada website, for centuries, people hunted and camped along the original shores of Lake Minnewanka. The Stoney people called it “Minn-waki” or “Lake of the Spirits”. They respected and feared this lake for its resident spirits.
What you need to know
During the summer, explore the lake on a boat tour. Lake Minnewanka is inside Banff National Park and access to the parks has been limited due to COVID-19. On 10-Jun-2020, the Parks Canada website indicates they are opening on a limited basis on 1-Jun-2020. Boat cruises on Lake Minnewanka are scheduled to start on 13-Jun-2020. Check often for updates on closures and restrictions related to COVID-19.
Tips for winter wedding photos
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- Bring warm jackets that you can put on to warm up between shots. Our bride wore a faux-suede jacket and cashmere scarf over her Lazaro gown.
- Bring a cozy blanket that fits in with your color scheme that we could wrap around you for some shots.
- For the bride, consider wearing light-colored leggings under your wedding dress to keep you warm. If you get too warm, you can always peel them off.
- Bring mittens and hand-warmers. If they are cute and fit in with your color scheme, even better.
- I recommend wearing hiking boots/shoes that you can walk comfortably in. You can always carry along dress shoes to wear for certain shots.
- Some of my couples have brought along a thermos of hot chocolate to toast with. Water and snacks are also a good idea.
Recipe for a winter bouquet
For the flower fans out there, here’s the recipe for this rich winter bouquet by Calgary floral designer, Flowers by Janie:
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- Burgundy Anemones
- Ranunculus
- White O’Hara Garden Roses
- Hellebores
- Seeded Eucalyptus
After Lake Minnewanka, we headed into Banff for a few shots. If you don’t get wedding photos at “Surprise Corner”, did you really get married in Banff? For those that aren’t familiar with Banff, the epic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is pictured in the background.
Can you hear the mountains calling? Here’s an engagement session I shot at Lake Minnewanka not long ago.
Thanks to the talented vendor team:
Bouquet: Flowers by Janie
Hair & make-up: Mountain Beauties
Gown: Lazaro available at Cameo & Cufflinks
Bride’s scarf, jacket & ring: Adorn Boutique
Accesories: Joanna Bisley Design
Groom’s attire: Ed Williams Menswear
Bride & groom: The Numa Network
Lake Minnewanka wedding photos captured by Calgary Wedding Photographer – Tara Whittaker
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