Deanna Rachel | Calgary Wedding Photographer

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Calgary Summer Wedding: Mackenzie + Steve

Mackenzie + Steve... From the moment I met these two, I knew that they were my kind of people.

Mackenzie + Steve's love story began a few years ago, as they met in passing during their undergrads. However it wasn't until the summer of 2014 that they connected on their floor hockey team with friends. It took Steve the 3 month season to get the courage to ask Mackenzie out for lunch, and I'm pretty glad she said yes. Their first date was dinner on the patio at Block Kitchen + Bar. Mackenzie remembers sharing everything they ordered, good conversation, and was impressed that Steve had left his cellphone in his car to show his undivided attention. As dinner progressed, Steve knew that Mackenzie was different from other girls. But it was the hug at the end of the night that Steve knew Mackenzie was the one. 

They chose to have their wedding at the church they attend, Kensington Commons Church, and their ceremony was absolutely beautiful. They read love letters to their parents; Mackenzie and her bridesmaids held flowers put together by Mackenzie's mom; Mackenzie's brother in law married them as they stood underneath an arch they built themselves. 

Following the ceremony, we went to their absolute favourite coffee shop (Monogram) with their bridal party to simply hang out. Afterwards, we made our way to a park for.. wait for it.. a picnic. And so, under a tree, they shared vietnamese subs with their bridal party (and even let me and my second shooter join them. Can it get any better??). 

The reception was at Civic on Third and again, reflected Steve and Mackenzie to a T. Everything had been planned with such care: there was a kids area for the little ones, performances from their friends and family, a milk and cookies station, an elegantly designed 12 course family style dinner, and a kissing game where the proceeds went to supporting their friends' son who was recently diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy. My favourite part of the evening might have been when their friends got up and surprised them with a rendition of "Can't Help Falling in Love with You" (keep scrolling and I bet you'll be able to pick out the moment it happens - Mackenzie's face says it all). Mackenzie and Steve returned the surprise when they themselves put on a dance performance that they had been practicing for months. I'm glad I had my camera in front of my face because I was crying the *entire* time. 

It was a day filled of love, happiness, and community. Mackenzie + Steve, I am so grateful our paths crossed so I could meet some of the most caring, kind, and genuine people I've ever met. I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to be part of your incredibly beautiful day. I wish the two of you the most wonderful journey as husband and wife and cannot wait to see where life takes you! 


Vendors:
Ceremony Venue: Kensington Commons Church
Reception Venue & Catering: Civic on Third
Invitations: Painted by the bride, designed by Jimmy Hoang
Florals: Kim Chu (mother of the bride)
Cake: Lionel's Specialty Cake
DJs: DJ Jason X, Knight Star Production
Hair Stylist: Elite Hair Design
Bridal Dress Boutique: Davids Bridal 
Bridal Dress Designer: Oleg Cassini
Bridesmaid dresses: Zara, David's Bridal, Forever 21, Marshall's
Groomsmen accessories (socks, pocket squares, and bow ties): The Tie Bar
Videographer: Flagship Media
Second Photographer: Laura Nadine Photography