Marissa + Jim
Winter Emerald Lake Elopement

Marissa and Jim had an intimate elopement of under 15 before it was the cool thing to do. They chose the spring equinox, a day that equally splits day and night. When winter becomes spring. When two people committed to each other become husband and wife. When in name there is change, but at the heart of things, its all the same. All in the most wonderful way.

It was secret to all but their parents, and Marissa’s uncle that would marry them. A couple days in the mountain all to themselves, to treat their parents to delicious food and drink. Before announcing to the world the change in titles.

They spent the brilliant bluebird sky morning getting ready together (yesssss). Of course, being the thoughtful people they are, to each of their mother’s they repurposed heirloom jewellery. Then they helped each other with the finishing touches. Boutonnieres made by Marissa and her mum, a simple statement belt to compliment Marissa’s BHLDN dress (which may I point out is actually sold as a bridesmaid’s dress but made the perfect bridal gown).

At the ceremony lookout, their parent’s sat, two by two, nearly hidden by the snowbanks on first glance. Together, Marissa and Jim walked into their ceremony, her arm looped around his. Her uncle married them, they read personalized handwritten vows. Then with a prayer, each person interconnected by another, they were married. A first kiss with their parents cheering them on.

We meandered the Emerald Lake Lodge grounds. Marissa’s vintage shawl and her handmade bouquet were the only pops of colour in a landscape that was changing from monotonous winter to the first signs of spring as the trees shed their wintery dustings. We walked on a frozen lake, ever so slightly heaving as it stretched with the warmth of the sun. Jim pointed at things. As Jim does. He pointed at Hamilton Lake where he had hiked years before. He pointed at where his gear was accidentally helicoptered out leaving he and his friends quite gearless for their descent. But most importantly he held her hand. From partners, to husband and wife. A lot changed on that spring equinox, but also, not that much.

Venue | Emerald Lake Lodge in Yoho National Park . Hair and Makeup | Simply Me in Canmore . Officiant | Bride’s Uncle Dean . Florals | Marissa and her mum . Dress | BHLDN . Suit | Custom Made by Suit-ed Menswear in Airdrie