Jess & Matt • Starling Lane Vineyard BC

Jess and Matt’s elopement at Starling Lane Vineyard in Victoria BC, was truly a perfect blend of nature and romance. Nestled on the picturesque Saanich Peninsula in Victoria, British Columbia, Starling Lane Vineyard offers an enchanting backdrop for couples seeking an intimate, charming elopement. With its sweeping views of the island’s lush greenery, rows of grapevines, and a tranquil, rustic charm, this vineyard is the perfect venue for a romantic celebration of love — just you and your partner with a handful of guests and nature’s beauty surrounding you.

Whether you're envisioning an indoor ceremony in the picturesque greenhouse, a cozy ceremony amidst the vines, or outdoor celebration at sunset, Starling Lane provides the ideal setting to say "I do."

I started working wtih Jess and Matt in 2023 and we had their elopement planned within weeks. Vendors were booked, retainers were paid, literally everything was planned and ready to go. Then we got the hiccup and a rather major one at that, which was completely 100% out of anyone’s control. We were now back at square one and now their already planned elopement was going to be in a completely different city and area of the island, which means that we need all new vendors etc. This felt completely devastating to all of us… however in the back of my mind I am a true believer that everything happens for a reason and that this would actually work out better. The two of them came together in problem-solving mode and after a quick search, found Starling Lane Vineyard, which ended up being the most incredible and suiting place for their elopement.

At Starling Lane Vineyard, there is an undeniable magic and charm to it, so after viewing it, Jess and Matt booked it right away for their elopement. The property is a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for an elopement with it quiet beauty, although the peacocks will say “Hi” every now and again! Their day was filled with so much magic and love and I think each and everyone of us was thankful for the hiccup that ended in bringing us all to Starling Lane Vineyard!

Jess and Matt’s elopement was a day to remember forever and I am truly thankful for our little hiccup.

Once the venue was booked, everything else fell into place. It was truly meant to be. Starling Lane Vineyard truly provides everything you need for the perfect day and more. With endless photo ops and their absolutely incredible dahlia flower garden, Starling Lane Vineyard is a perfect blend of natural rustic beauty with the elegance and romantic charm that Jess and Matt were looking for. They were truly able to focus on their elopement day and what truly matters: celebrating their love, enjoying each and every moment, and soaking in the beauty around them.

VENDORS:

Planning and coordination - Vancouver Island Elopement

Photography - Elyse Anna Photography

Hair - Willow and Arrow Hairloft

Officiant - Mel Orlowski

What to expect • Vancouver Island Elopement

Eloping is one of the most intimate and personal ways to celebrate your love, and when you choose to elope with me on Vancouver Island, you’re in for an absolutely unforgettable experience. As a professional elopement photographer based on the island, I have the incredible privilege of capturing the raw beauty of couples in one of the most breathtaking locations on Earth… I seriously feel like I have to pinch myself sometimes! Whether you’re planning a cozy, intimate ceremony surrounded by towering trees or a cliffside vow exchange overlooking the ocean, your elopement on Vancouver Island will be nothing short of magical.

Here’s what you can expect when you book your elopement with me as your photographer:

1. Personalized Elopement Planning Assistance

Eloping can be a huge decision, but planning it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! From the moment you inquire with me, I’ll work closely with you to help design an elopement that truly reflects your vision and style and you as a couple! Every couple I work with is unique, so I get to know you and your partner and tailor everything from location suggestions to the timing of your ceremony to ensure it is a perfect reflection of your love story.

You can expect help with:

• Location Recommendations: Vancouver Island has a stunning variety of landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged coastal cliffs, alpine meadows, and sandy beaches. Based on your preferences, I’ll suggest locations that best suit the vibe you're aiming for.

• Vendors: Whether you need help finding an officiant, florist, or hair and makeup artist, I have a trusted team of highly experienced professionals that I will connect you with. Plus, I’ll assist with any travel arrangements and accommodation recommendations. I even offer the option of upgrading to an all-inclusive package, in which I take care of ALL your vendor coordination and communication.

• Timeline Assistance: I’ll help you craft a timeline that maximizes light for your portraits, while also fitting seamlessly with the flow of your ceremony and celebration.

2. A Smooth, Stress-Free Experience

One of the greatest benefits of eloping is the chance to let go of wedding day stress and any family/friend expectations. As your elopement planner and photographer, my goal is to make the day as effortless as possible for you so that you can soak in every wonderful moment. When you book with me, you’re not just getting someone to simply ‘snap’ pictures—you’re getting a professional third-wheel who’s fully invested in your day and there to document your story!

Here’s what to expect:

• Zero Pressure, Just Love: I’ll guide you through the day with gentle prompts and possible bad joke to envoke some laughter, with the focus always being on you and your partner. There’s no posing or stiff, forced smiles here… just some candid fun! I want you to enjoy every moment and let your love shine through naturally.

• Complete Flexibility: Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and sometimes weather or other circumstances can change unexpectedly, especially on the island. I’m here to roll with the punches and am always solution-focused. Whether we’re adapting to an unexpected rainstorm or shifting plans due to a late arrival, we will find a way to keep everything on track with the main goal of getting you and your partner hitched.

• A Relaxed, Fun Atmosphere: On your elopement day, I encourage you to take your time, soak in the beauty of the surroundings, and enjoy every part of your unforgettable day, especially because it will be your anniversary date for the rest of your lives. I truly believe that your elopement experience should be 100% stress-free and completely fun and memorable!

3. High-Quality, Authentic Photography

When it comes to documenting your elopement, you deserve more than just snapshots—you deserve a gallery of photos that are as beautiful, authentic, and meaningful as your love story. It is always my goal to capture the true essence of your day through a story-tellers lens

With me as your photographer, you can expect:

• Story-teller Style Photography: I specialize in candid, story-teller style photos that capture the raw beauty of your day. From the quiet anticipated moments before your ceremony to the laughter during your vows, I’ll photograph all the moments that make your elopement truly yours.

• Stunning Landscape Shots: Vancouver Island’s landscapes are an absolute dream, and I’ll make sure to frame you and your partner against the most awe-inspiring backdrops. Whether it’s a misty forest, a mossy mountain side, or a pristine beach at sunset, I’ll find the perfect spots to tell the story of your day through breathtaking scenery.

• Attention to Detail: I believe that every little detail matters and adds to the story of your day. I always aim to photograph the elements that are uniquely special to you, from the rings and the bouquet to those intimate moments you might not have even noticed. I always love a good sneaky candid!

4. A Fully Customized Package for You

One of the biggest advantages of eloping is the ability to have a wedding experience that is 100% tailored to your unique needs. With me, you’ll have the flexibility to customize your elopement package so it aligns with your vision. First and foremost, I offer photography however I do offer the option up upgrading to an all-inclusive elopement package that is completely designed by you and your wants and needs.

Some of the options I offer include:

• Photography Coverage: Whether you want a full day of photography or just a few hours, I’ll work with you to ensure we have enough time to capture all the key moments. As to not rush through your day and because I truly believe that your elopement day is more than a portrait session, my packages begin at 3 hours coverage.

• Adventure Sessions: If you’re up for a bit of adventure, I can guide you through a hiking elopement or a scenic road trip to multiple locations, ensuring we get all the incredible spots you have on your bucket list.

• Vendor recommendations: It is always important to me to source vendors local to your elopement locations. This helps to keep travel fees down and supports local economy on the island. I have had the privledge of working with incredible vendors all over the island so am very confident in finding you the perfect vendor match for your elopement day.

5. Post-Elopement: Your Story Unfolds

Once your elopement day is over, I’ll be hard at work editing and curating the best images from your day. You can expect:

• A Sneak Peek: Within one week, you’ll receive a sneak peek of some of my favorite photos, so you can relive your day almost instantly.

• Full Gallery: You’ll receive a private, online gallery within 6-8 weeks (in peak season). You can download, share your gallery with friends and family and even purchase fine art prints. I always encourage you to download your images, however I will not delete your online gallery.

Ready to Say "I Do" Your Way?!

Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and is the perfect place for your intimate elopement. With my experience and expertise as a professional elopement photographer, I’ll make sure your day is not only unforgettable but also beautifully documented.

Let’s chat and start planning the elopement of your dreams!

Engagement Photos • J&M • Ladysmith BC

Why you need Engamement Photos • Vancouver Island

Engagement sessions are an exciting and meaningful part of your elopement journey, and if you’re planning to elope on Vancouver Island, the stunning backdrop makes this even more special. But beyond the beautiful landscapes, there are countless reasons why hiring a professional photographer for your engagement session is an investment that will enhance your entire experience, not just in the moment, but for years to come. From your engagement session, to the moment you’re reciting your vows to each other — I want to capture the magic of these moments and bottle them for you so you can look back on these milestones for the rest of your lives.

If you’re on the fence about whether or not to book a photographer for your engagement session, here's why it's such a valuable choice:

1. Capture the Magic of Your Love Story

Your engagement session is a celebration of your relationship, your love story, and this exciting chapter in your life. Having a photographer capture this moment allows you to preserve the raw, emotional connection between you and your partner.

As you laugh, hold hands, and share intimate moments in one of the most beautiful places on Earth—whether it's a misty forest, rugged coastline, or charming small town—your photographer will document these candid, authentic moments.

A professional photographer knows how to capture the essence of your relationship, telling the story of your love in ways that will remind you of the magic every time you look at the photos.

2. Get Comfortable in Front of the Camera

Many couples feel nervous or awkward in front of the camera, and that’s perfectly normal. But the engagement session is the perfect opportunity to get comfortable being photographed before the big day.

When you work with a professional photographer, you'll receive gentle guidance on how to pose naturally, where to look, and how to relax. This will help you feel more at ease during your elopement day photos, where you’ll be in the spotlight and want to look and feel your best.

As an experienced photographer, I will coach you through the session, giving you helpful tips to create authentic, flattering, candid images while making sure you feel comfortable and confident.

3. Create Stunning Photos in a Dreamy Location

Vancouver Island is a photographer’s dream, with its breathtaking beaches, towering forests, and dramatic mountain ranges. Whether you’re looking for coastal views, quiet lakesides, or rugged terrain, this island offers some of the most stunning locations for engagement photos.

By hiring a photographer who knows the local landscape, you’ll have access to hidden gems and iconic spots that will elevate your photos. Imagine a serene beach at sunset, or a walk through moss-covered trees in an old-growth forest. The natural beauty of Vancouver Island will give you the most incredible backdrop for your engagement photos, which will be forever tied to the memories you made there.

Plus, a local photographer can help you pick the best locations, times of day for lighting, and the best seasons for shooting, ensuring that your engagement photos are truly one-of-a-kind.

4. Get Professional-Quality Photos

Sure, you can ask a friend or family member to take your engagement photos, but there’s a world of difference between snapshots and professionally crafted images. A professional photographer brings years of experience, high-quality equipment, and a keen eye for detail to every shoot.

Here’s what you can expect from a professional photographer:

• Lighting Expertise: Whether shooting in natural light or with added flash, a photographer knows how to make the most of lighting conditions, which can make or break a photo.

• Composition Skills: A professional knows how to frame the shot, use depth and angles creatively, and avoid distractions, ensuring your photos are as visually striking as they are meaningful.

• Post-Processing: After your session, a skilled photographer will edit your photos to enhance their colors, sharpness, and overall look, giving you polished, magazine-worthy images.

Your engagement photos deserve to be more than just a quick snap—they should be beautiful, timeless images that you’ll cherish forever. And hiring a professional ensures that you get that quality and attention to detail.

5. Build Trust with Your Photographer Before the Wedding

Your engagement session offers a unique chance to get to know your photographer and develop a relationship before your wedding day. It’s a great opportunity to experience how your photographer works, understand their style, and see how they make you feel during a photoshoot.

The more comfortable you feel with your photographer before the wedding, the smoother the wedding day photos will go. You’ll already have an established rapport, know how they direct you during a shoot, and have a better understanding of their style and approach.

Additionally, your photographer can help you with any last-minute ideas for the wedding, giving you confidence in their ability to capture the big day just the way you envision.

6. Create Lasting Memories That You’ll Treasure Forever

Your engagement photos are not only for your wedding website, invitations, or save-the-dates. They are also cherished mementos that will last long after your wedding day. You’ll look back at them in the years to come, and they’ll bring you right back to the emotions, excitement, and love you felt during that special time.

In addition to framed prints in your home, your engagement photos can be used in your elopement album, on thank-you cards, or even as part of a slideshow if you are having a reception at a later date. They are a tangible reminder of the beginning of your journey together, and investing in professional photos means you’ll have beautiful images to preserve those memories forever.

7. Practice for your Elopement Day

The engagement session is essentially a “rehearsal” for your elopement day photos. You get to see how you both look in photos, how you interact naturally, and how your photographer handles the session. This practice run helps you both feel more confident when it’s time for the big day.

When you hire a photographer for your engagement session, you’re giving yourself the opportunity to perfect the dynamics, movements, and poses that will translate into better wedding photos. The session allows you to learn how to interact with your partner in front of the camera in a way that feels comfortable and authentic, setting the stage for a more relaxed and enjoyable wedding day experience.

8. Celebrate Your Love in a Fun, Stress-Free Way

At the end of the day, your engagement session should be a fun and enjoyable experience that celebrates your love for one another. By hiring a professional photographer, you can rest easy knowing that the entire process will be managed seamlessly—from planning the shoot to getting the photos you’ve always dreamed of.

Engagement sessions are not about posing and looking perfect; they’re about sharing a joyful moment with your partner and capturing the love you feel. A photographer who knows how to make you laugh, relax, and just be yourselves will turn your engagement session into an unforgettable experience.

My Final Thoughts…

Booking a photographer for your engagement session on Vancouver Island is more than just a chance to get beautiful pictures—it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories, get comfortable in front of the camera, and have a professional guide you through the process.

From the stunning scenery to the authentic moments you’ll share with your partner, your engagement session will be a celebration of your love—and it deserves to be captured in a way that reflects that beauty and joy.

If you're ready to make your engagement session as memorable as your love story, I’d love to help! Let's connect and start planning your dream engagement photoshoot on Vancouver Island.

Capture the moments before your I do’s. It is all a part of your love story and worth celebrating! When you book an elopement with me, you can save on your engagement session & I’ll help you capture both moments exactly the way you dreamed them to be!