Derek and Sarah’s intimate fall wedding on Hornby Island

Sarah and Derek’s fall wedding on Hornby Island was a magical celebration brimming with love, laughter, and the enchanting beauty of nature. Nestled off the coast of Vancouver, this gem of an island—often called the “Hawaii of Canada”—provided an idyllic setting with its pristine beaches and unique sandstone formations, casting an almost otherworldly charm over their special day.

Magical wedding on Hornby Island

Their love story began in Vancouver, where Sarah, a dedicated nurse, and Derek, a skilled millwright, met and quickly fell in love. Derek’s proposal at sunset on Hornby Island, a cherished childhood haven for Sarah, sealed their fate and made the island an irresistible choice for their wedding.

Beneath the golden sun, their outdoor wedding on Hornby Island felt like a dream as they exchanged vows. Sarah was a vision in her simple yet stunning slip dress from Pronovias, adorned with a mesmerizing cathedral veil by Tony Federici, delicately embroidered and flowing with the breeze. Walking down the aisle to the hauntingly beautiful strains of a piper playing traditional Scottish tunes, Sarah’s heritage was honoured in the most romantic way. The ceremony space, adorned with whimsical floral arrangements in soft ivory, gentle yellows, and vibrant oranges by Alina Milek, seemed like a page out of a fairy tale.

After their heartfelt vows, guests were treated to a vibrant cocktail hour by the water, setting the scene for an evening of joy and celebration. Dinner was a delightful farm-to-table feast featuring fresh steak and locally caught salmon paired with garden-fresh vegetables and exquisite local wines. This meal underscored the couple’s commitment to sustainability and their deep connection to the island’s bounty.

As twilight painted the sky, their wedding on Hornby Island came alive during the reception, with music from On the Rocks and guitarist Andy Hillhouse. The night was serenaded by a Juno award-winning singer-songwriter, adding a touch of magic to the air. One of the most enchanting moments of the day was the golden hour photo session on the beach. Amanda Morie Photography captured the couple’s love and joy in the soft, golden light, creating timeless memories against the serene shoreline.

For the evening’s festivities, Sarah changed into a second dress by Cinderella Divine featuring an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline, sleek sheath silhouette, and daring high slit, a perfect gown for dancing under the stars. Derek and his groomsmen, in their classic suits from Indochino, complemented the evening’s sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.

Every detail of their wedding on Hornby Island was touched with personal significance, from the handmade ceramic vase favours crafted by Derek’s mother, to the solar-powered lighting that softly illuminated the celebration. These thoughtful touches highlighted Sarah and Derek’s love for their community and their commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Sarah and Derek’s fall wedding on Hornby Island was more than a celebration; it was a dreamy, inspiring tale of love, beautifully interwoven with personal touches, stunning natural settings, and heartfelt moments. Their magical day serves as a testament to the beauty of love and the joy of sharing it with family and friends, offering boundless inspiration for couples embarking on their own wedding journeys.