Dave & Shauna’s Whimsical Fairytale Wedding

Whonnock Lake Park Wedding | Maple Ridge Wedding Photographer

Some weddings feel magical from the moment you meet the couple — and Dave and Shauna’s wedding was one of those. I'm finally sharing this story!

We first met them a couple of years before their wedding at a local wedding show. They had just discovered our work and instantly connected with our approach to photography. Before long, they had booked us almost two years in advance, and from that moment on we knew their wedding day was going to be something special.

Not long after booking, we met again for their engagement session at Rolley Lake Provincial Park. We spent the afternoon exploring the forest trails and waterfalls together, laughing the whole way through. That session gave us a glimpse into their dynamic — adventurous, playful, and completely comfortable being themselves together. Walking away from that day, I remember thinking: their wedding is going to be incredible.

And it absolutely was.

A Fairytale Come to Life

Dave and Shauna chose Whonnock Lake Park in Maple Ridge for their wedding day, hosting their celebration at the beautiful Lake Centre surrounded by forest and water.

Shauna had a clear vision: she wanted the day to feel magical — like stepping into a real-life fairytale.

And they brought that vision to life in the most creative way. From giant handcrafted flowers to lush greenery woven throughout the space, every detail of their décor felt whimsical and intentional. Walking into the venue felt like entering an enchanted garden.

Even during the getting-ready moments, there were little hints of Shauna’s personality everywhere. Her room was filled with crystals placed carefully around the space — small details that reflected the thoughtful energy she poured into the day.

A Wedding Full of Personality

What made Dave and Shauna’s wedding truly stand out wasn’t just the décor — it was their energy.

They embraced every moment of the day fully and unapologetically as themselves.

Family portraits quickly turned into hilarious moments with silly poses and laughter echoing through the park. During their portrait session together, they blasted music and danced around the forest paths without a care in the world. Those spontaneous moments created some of the most genuine images of the day.

Their connection was effortless — playful, emotional, and completely authentic.

A Surprise That Left Everyone in Tears

One of the most unforgettable moments of the day came during the reception.

Shauna had a surprise planned for Dave: a personalized song she had written just for him. As the music began, the entire room quieted, and the emotion in the space was palpable. It was such an intimate and heartfelt moment that left everyone — including us — completely moved.

But the tears didn’t stop there.

During the mother-daughter dance, the music suddenly changed to a recording of Shauna’s mom singing their song. The room filled with emotion as Shauna danced with her mother to her voice. It was one of those moments that perfectly captures why weddings are so meaningful — the love between family, the memories being honored, and the new chapter beginning.

A Truly Magical Day

Dave and Shauna created a wedding that was entirely their own — playful, emotional, creative, and deeply meaningful.

From the enchanted garden details to the heartfelt surprises throughout the day, every moment reflected who they are together.

It was an absolute joy to document their story, and we’re so grateful we were there to capture it all.

Take a look through some highlights from their unforgettable wedding day at Whonnock Lake Park.