Vancouver Elopement | Ron Basford Park on Granville Island

A Beautiful Day for an Elopement in Vancouver

It might not look like it in the photos, but it was a beautiful day in Vancouver for Annie and Chen’s Elopement last September. Behind the thick cloud of forest fire smoke in the air, the sun was shining, keeping us cozy and giving everything a nice warm glow.

Our journey with Annie and Chen started in 2019 when they booked us to photograph their Wedding at Bridges Restaurant on Granville Island. They chose this venue for it’s open concept, bright natural light, and impeccable city views. A few months later, 2020 happened. I don’t think we really need to get into the details of that.

With their initial wedding plans out the window, Annie and Chen decided to scale things down until it is safe to celebrate with friends and family again. 2020 was a difficult year for many couples getting married. Some have opted to postpone their celebrations to later years and many have chosen to have simple Elopement Ceremonies right here in Vancouver.

Follow as we bring you along for Annie and Chen’s Elopement on Granville Island.

Keeping things simple

Annie and Chen did just that. A few days prior to their elopement, we met up to take a walk around Granville Island to scout the perfect spot for their nuptials.

We spent some time chatting as we walked through the shops on this little peninsula and learned that Annie and Chen spent a lot of time here together in the early days of their relationship.

After our walk down memory lane, we decided that the elopement would happen at Ron Basford Park on the South East end of Granville Island.

… it’s all you need.

This yellow “Love” wall is no secret to Vancouverites and was the perfect spot to start our day. We set Chen up for his first look, but before we talk about that, let’s show some love to The Wild Bunch for composing this STUNNING, free-styled bridal bouquet.

Back to Chen.

Doesn’t he look absolutely dashing in his navy blue suit from Indochino, matchy matchy bowtie and brown leather shoes? We think so too!

Annie arrived, glammed up after her hair and makeup session with The Love Team, in a simple, yet classy, 90’s inspired slit dress by Babaton in their “Bone” colorway, paired with a set of comfy nude, open toed shoes with a chunky heel. Their outfits were perfect for this simple and low-key affair.

Building up the excitement!

After their first look at “The Love Wall”, we went for a stroll through the streets of Granville Island looking for interesting backdrops and making sure to visit Bridges Restaurant and pay tribute to what would have been.

We also stopped for a few quick photos in front of the iconic “Granville Island” sign while dodging traffic (jk, there was no traffic), grabbed a few quick shots in front of Annie’s previous workplace, and found some Jurassic Park style giant rhubarb to play poser in front of.

Time to make things official – it’s Elopement time!

We were joined by both of Annie & Chen’s parents as well as Annie’s Aunt to make things official. It was a wonderful civil ceremony performed by the lovely Verna Magee Shepherd followed a few family portraits to commemorate this special occasion.

Congrats! You two did it!!!

Given that indoor receptions were banned at the time, Annie and Chen celebrated the only way the could. They had a nice lunch as one big happy family, but before parting ways, Annie and Chen had some personal vows they wanted to share with each other. We found a nice spot by the water overlooking False Creek, which was perfect for them to share this intimate moment.

Welcome to the Team!

With the official stuff completed and their personal vows shared, it was time for us to go our separate ways. Annie and Chen, it was a pleasure documenting your elopement ceremony on Granville Island and we can’t wait until we can celebrate safely again with all of your friends and family.