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Magical Wedding at Rowena’s on the River

May 27, 2025
Featured  ·  Photography  ·  Wedding

From Storm to Sunshine 

What started as a day filled with unexpected challenges turned into one of the most unforgettable weddings we’ve ever photographed at Rowena’s on the River at Sandpiper Resort in Harrison Mills, BC. Hayley & Peter’s wedding was the perfect example of how love, resilience and a touch of magic can transform even the stormiest of mornings into a celebration overflowing with joy.

Their wedding day began with a curveball—literally. On the drive to the venue, Peter and Hayley’s brother were involved in a minor car accident. Thankfully, everyone was okay, but the stress and worry naturally set in. And as if that wasn’t enough, the skies opened up and the picturesque riverside venue was soaked in a relentless downpour.

With the dream of an outdoor forest ceremony on the line, we started exploring a Plan B. Moving everything under cover was an option, but Hayley had always envisioned exchanging vows beneath the towering treetops of Rowena’s. And with a little patience, some teamwork, and a whole lot of heart, we made it happen.

One of the most touching moments was Hayley’s walk down the aisle. To keep her dress clean and dry, all of the guests—and Peter—stood facing away as she made her way to the end of the aisle holding her gown high above the damp ground. Once she was fluffed and prepped beneath the canopy of trees, everyone turned to see her at once. That shared gasp, the emotional smiles, the tears—it was nothing short of magic.

 

And then, just when we thought the day couldn’t get more magical, a rainbow appeared in the sky during the ceremony. A perfect, unexpected symbol of hope and new beginnings.

Despite the rocky start, Hayley & Peter’s wedding was full of warmth, love and laughter. Set against the lush forest and river views of Sandpiper Golf Course wedding venue, their ceremony reminded everyone present of the beauty that comes from weathering life’s storms together.

Bride putting her shoes on for her wedding day
Bride putting her earrings on before walking down the ailse
Bride smiling as she gets makeup done in natural light at Rowena’s on the River bridal suite
Detail shot of lace wedding gown hanging in window at Sandpiper Golf Course venue
Bride popping champagne when the sun started shining through the rain clouds
Candid moment of bride preparing for the day, surrounded by quiet anticipation
Bride looking at the venue before getting her dress on
Mens morning preparing for his wedding day
Grooms thoughtful moment of how the wedding day will commence
Groom tying his shoes for his wedding day
Mens details before his wedding day
Grooms sharing a drink with his boys before wedding
Couple exchanging vows with emotional expressions and joyful tears
Wide angle of ceremony setup at Rowena’s on the River with mountains and water behind
Every big and quiet moment, held with care.
Wide angle of ceremony setup at Rowena’s on the River with mountains and water behind
Couple exchanging vows with emotional expressions and joyful tears
The kiss—newlyweds sealing their vows against stunning BC backdrop
Bride and groom walking back down the aisle hand-in-hand as newlyweds
Bridal party lined up with forested Fraser Valley views behind them at Sandpiper Golf Course
Bridesmaids laughing and holding bouquets in elegant mismatched dresses
Bridesmaids laughing and holding bouquets in elegant mismatched dresses
Bride and groom holding hands with details of the wedding dress
Romantic outdoor wedding ceremony at Rowena's on the River with mountain backdrop in Fraser Valley
Classic portrait of bride holding bouquet with mountains softly blurred in background
Bride and groom holding each other along the riverbank with soft sunset light
Fun bridal party dancing together across riverside lawn at Rowena’s venue
Fun bridal party dancing together across riverside lawn at Rowena’s venue
Romantic close-up of couple with heads together framed by tall grasses and golden glow
Bride looking over shoulder with train flowing behind her in Fraser Valley setting
Bride and groom in front of Rowenas on the rivers house
Laughing candid of bride and groom walking hand-in-hand on riverside path
Elegant close-up of couple’s hands intertwined with wedding bands visible
Groom spinning bride in flowing dress during golden hour at Sandpiper Golf Course

Planning a Wedding at Rowena’s on the River?

Rowena’s on the River is one of the most breathtaking outdoor wedding venues in the Fraser Valley. Nestled along the Harrison River with views of the mountains and forests, it offers a truly serene and romantic setting—rain or shine.

Whether you’re envisioning a spring elopement under the trees or a full summer wedding surrounded by loved ones, this venue offers incredible versatility and beauty no matter the weather.


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Let's freeze this moment in time, together

Kate Paterson | Vancouver BC Wedding Photographer

katepatersonphotography

One of the biggest things I tell my couples?Slow. One of the biggest things I tell my couples?Slow. Down.

Not just for the sake of your memories—but so you can be truly present in the moment and we can capture them for you.

✨ Take your time walking down the aisle
✨ Don’t rush that first kiss
✨ Hold your dad a little longer
✨ Swirl your wine an extra second
✨ Look around and let it land

These tiny moments are everything. They fly by in a blink—but when you pause, when you breathe, we’re able to catch:
– The emotion in your eyes
– The tear on someone’s cheek
– The laughter from just out of frame
– The wide shots and the quiet close-ups

We move quickly behind the lens—but sometimes, our couples move even faster.

So here’s your gentle reminder: slow down and savor.

You’re not just living the moment—you’re giving us a chance to freeze it, forever.
Wind in the veil, champagne in hand, hearts racing Wind in the veil, champagne in hand, hearts racing.
 You’re still in the middle of the day, but these are the photos that will take you right back every time.
It’s been a while—so if you’re new here, hi! It’s been a while—so if you’re new here, hi! I’m Kate, the girl behind the lens (always tea in hand, never coffee). I’m a photographer based in Abbotsford and traveling all across BC to capture weddings, families, and all the love stories in between.

My heart is in the unposed, unscripted, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of moments. The real laughs. The tight squeezes. The wind-in-your-hair kind of magic that tells your story in a way that actually feels like you.

If you’re planning something special or just love timeless, feel-good photos—stick around. You’re in the right place.

👉🏻 This new dress coming soon to my client closet! Who wants to capture some beauty in it with me??
Getting ready photos? They’re not just makeup to Getting ready photos? They’re not just makeup touch-ups and dress zips.
They’re the quiet glances, deep breaths, and little moments that mark the shift from “fiancé” to “bride.”

You might wonder—is it really worth capturing these parts of the day?
Here’s my honest take:

PROS:
→ It’s a slow, gentle start to a big day
→ Emotions are fresh and real
→ You’re surrounded by your people—your closest circle
→ The details shine (rings, perfume, florals, heirlooms)

CONS:
→ Honestly? There aren’t many.

If we plan your timeline with intention, this part becomes one of the most meaningful chapters of the day.
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#gettingreadyphotos #bridalmorning #langleyweddingphotographer #gettingreadymoments #vancouverbrideguide #fraservalleyweddings #bcweddingphotographer #westcoastbride #gettingreadytimeline #morningofwedding

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