An Owl Grove Wedding Along the Juan de Fuca Strait
Sarah and Eric’s Owl Grove wedding was deeply connected to the West Coast and Juan de Fuca Strait. The adventurous duo have many fond memories along the West Coast, including hiking the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and spending time camping here with their dog, Jasper. After moving to Vancouver Island from the mainland, the pair have explored much of the Islands outdoor beauty, and they are called back time and time again to the West Coast.
The Owl Grove was the ideal wedding venue for Sarah and Eric, as it truly showcases the heart of Vancouver Islands West Coast. The serene acreage boasts plenty of Arbutus, Oak, and Douglas Fir forest, hilly rocky outcrops and distant views of the Juan de Fuca Strait itself! It was important to feel nurtured by nature on their wedding day, and this Sooke, BC, wedding venue did just that!
“What made us chose the venue at Owl Grove for our wedding venue was because it perfectly captured everything we love about the west coast. From the breathtaking ocean views to the forested property surrounded by arbutus trees—symbols of good luck—it felt like magic. The rolling hills and peaceful atmosphere brought a sense of serenity, but it was the heartfelt details that truly made it special. Marisa and her family had lovingly crafted the wooden arches and structures by hand, and their care and connection to the land could be felt everywhere. From the moment we arrived, we knew it was the one. Owl Grove felt like home, and we couldn’t imagine a more meaningful place to celebrate our day.” -Sarah and Eric
About the Owl Grove
The Owl Grove is a splendid acreage located in Sooke, BC, whose landowners have lovingly tended the land for decades. When Dino and Nancy first purchased the property, they lived in an RV while building their dream log home. In 1996 they welcomed their daughter, Marisa, into their lives. Today, Marisa is taking the reins on sharing this space as a wedding venue, helping couples plan their special day on the property she grew up on.
The property has a few options for the ceremony site, nestled among the healthy forest or for an intimate gathering, overlooking the ocean. There is space to set up a 20’x60′ tent, and two accommodation options for overnight stays. The venue can host up to 120 guests for full weddings, or up to 30 for intimate elopements.
First Look Under the Oak
Sarah and Eric prepared separately that morning with their bridal party, anticipating a private first look with one another prior to the ceremony. Eric readied with his groomsmen, parents and dog Jasper at a nearby Airbnb, while Sarah readied on site with her bridesmaids. When they were ready, Eric and doggo Jasper stood beneath a moss-laden Oak Tree in the rain, sheltering underneath an umbrella. Sarah walked up, greeted at first by her beloved fur baby, before seeing her man in a private exchange. The rain made the moment even more intimate and cozy, as the two nestled in close.
After their heartfelt first look, the bridal party joined in for a few more photos. It was important to Sarah and Eric to spend quality time with their guests, so taking the time for photos before the ceremony meant more time to mingle.
Rain on Your Wedding Day
September 23rd, 2023 turned out to be a typical day on the West Coast- rain with random moments of sunshine! Sarah and Eric were prepared for this, and it did not phase these two at all. During their ceremony, they let the rain fall down around them, completely in the moment exchanging vows. As they walked back down the aisle, guests threw confetti at the couple as their big beaming smiles lit up the sky. It’s a wonder the confetti didn’t stick to them!
The rain had moments of downpour, light drizzle, and small breaks of sunshine. During family formals, the drizzle was light, and the forest canopy provided enough shelter that umbrellas were not needed. They had a large tent set up for the reception and dinner, which provided ample shelter as well. Sarah reflected, “Honestly we loved the rain! It wouldn’t be a true authentic wedding without rain on the West Coast! We prepared our guests and just went for it. Rain is something we love most about Vancouver Island. It also made for some beautiful moody pictures you were able to capture. The old saying goes that rain on your wedding day is a sign of good luck. It’s often said to symbolize cleansing, renewal, and fertility, representing a fresh start and a strong bond as rain ties the knot tighter—just like wet rope becomes harder to untie. It’s seen as a blessing for a long and happy marriage!”
Eric’s Biggest Fan Becomes His Wife
Sarah first saw Eric as he played with his band at a show- she said she was immediately drawn to him and they ended up connecting that day. It was incredibly romantic when Eric once again performed a few live songs on his wedding night. This time around, that beautiful girl in the front row was now his wife!!!
Wedding Vendors:
- Wedding Venue: https://owlgrove.ca/
- Bulk Flower Sale: https://www.coastalislandfarm.com/
- Donuts: https://discoverycoffee.com/pages/yonnis-doughnuts & https://www.timhortons.ca/
- Chocolate Ganache Cake: https://www.saveonfoods.com/sm/planning/rsid/1982
- Bridal Hair Styling: https://studioonehairprofessionals.ca/about/
- Tent Rental: https://titaniumtents.com/
- Wedding Dress: https://www.bridalblissconsignment.ca/
- Wedding Dress Alterations: Seamingly Carly-Ann
“”Where do I even begin with our wedding photographer? She’s a gem. She sees the world in a way that most of us miss, capturing those authentic, raw moments without making things feel staged or stiff.
On our wedding day, she effortlessly made everything feel so relaxed and natural. There wasn’t a moment where we felt like we were merely posing for a camera. Instead, she was like a silent observer, catching the most heartfelt and spontaneous moments, making our day even more special.
Our outdoor engagement shoot was nothing short of an adventure! She wasn’t just up for an outdoor shoot on the west coast, she was all in, hiking with us to nail those perfect shots. And her west coast aesthetic in her editing is amazing. Every photo carries with it a touch of that ethereal, coastal magic – a blending of nature, emotion, and impeccable artistry.
One of the most touching aspects was her encouraging us to bring our beloved dog along. It wasn’t just a mere suggestion; it felt like she understood how integral our furry friend is to our story. That meant the world to us.
To describe her photography as magical would be an understatement. She didn’t just capture images; she captured memories, emotions, and fleeting moments that we can now cherish forever. It’s rare to find someone who can tell a story so beautifully through their lens, and we can’t rave about her enough.
For anyone looking for a photographer who combines talent with an easy-going nature, a keen eye for candid moments, and a unique aesthetic, look no further. We’re not just satisfied; we’re over the moon.” -Sarah, Eric, and Jaspy