A Banff Hiking Elopement combines all my favourite things: trails, adventurous people, and epic views. As I strapped on my backpack, the crisp October mountain air filled my lungs with a sense of anticipation–my favourite feeling. This was going to be a goooooooood day. After I sent a series of excited possibilities for their private vow hike, Jess and Artur had chosen a stunning location in the Rocky Mountains, a high mountain pass near Canmore, Alberta, for one of the most intimate moments of their lives: sharing their private vows.

The trek was invigorating–the chill said winter was definitely on its way–and a mix of excitement and adrenaline coursing through me as I kept pace ahead of them, camera in hand, documenting the journey unfolding before us. In two days, they would have Documentary Wedding Photography at the Gem Wedding Venue in Canmore but for now, it’s just them, the gorgeous Rocky Mountains and their bliss that this is finally happening. (They also encouraged me bring my dog, Linda, so she got to be part of this incredibly poignant chapter: humans promising each other their future!)

Every step brought us closer to Windy Pass (that’s the actual name and wow, that name is accurate). As we climbed, the towering peaks grew bigger, closer and surrounded us, and I couldn’t help but think they may just be giving us a hug. Nature was our backdrop, they were fully ready to literally step onto this next level of commitment, and I was there (with Linda) to gather up all their gestures and love language that was as genuine as the stunning views around us.

Banff Hiking Elopement

When we finally reached the summit, I stood back to observe Jess and Artur as they took in the view. The sun peeked through the clouds, casting pockets of light across the valley. In that moment, the world just fell away. It was just the two of them, the wind encouraging them to get ready to share words that would anchor their lives together. I felt honoured to be present, a silent observer capturing their interaction in its rawest form. My job is THE BEST.

A quick clothing change, a touching first look and they were ready to get this rolling. Linda took her spot near the overlook and I crouched low, catching Jess’s tear-filled eyes and Artur’s assuring grip on her hands. They exchanged vows softly, the wind carrying their whispers into the mountains. The gentleness of their promises tugged at every single one of my heartstrings. I focused on the details—her delicate hands trembling slightly, his brow furrowed in concentration as he recalled their shared beginnings at university studying philosophy, his suit jacket and her hair playing in the wind.

After the intimate ceremony, the sky a subtle blue pink, it was time to warm hands around a bottle of champagne, toast the mountains and change into warm clothes. Jess and Artur descended the mountain, the hike back filled with a lighter energy that marked the end of one milestone, just for them, and the beginning of another, their celebration with everyone they love. Our next destination was documentary wedding photography at the Gem Canmore Wedding Venue, where a completely different kind of celebration would unfold! Read about it here!

If you’re looking for a unique adventure to add to your wedding, or you’re looking for documentary wedding photography, or hosting at the Gem wedding venue in Canmore, let’s talk! Click here to get in touch.