Shortly after moving to the Yukon, I received an inquiry from Bonnie and John that I couldn’t resist. During our first consultation call, their vision for their wedding day captivated me. Bonnie is a board member of the Wildlife Animal Preserve in Whitehorse. This is one reason why Bonnie and John chose to have a Wedding at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve. It was the perfect place to say “I do”.
On the wedding day, I arrived early, to take a shuttle with Bonnie and John’s closest friends to the ceremony location. Straightaway, it was heartwarming to see how much effort their friends put into creating special touches for the day. Sheila Dodd and her husband officiated the ceremony, delivering beautiful, heartfelt words that truly captured the couple’s love. Bonnie and John wrote their own vows. Which included a guitar performance by a dear friend who serenaded them with one of their favourite love songs. As they exited the aisle, family and friends showered them with bubbles and dried flowers. Followed by a joyous champagne toast celebrating their love.
Bonnie had booked extra time ahead of the ceremony so that each of their friends and their partners could have a mini photoshoot done. As well as their own kids with their partners and little ones. This set the tone for laughter and happiness to fill the air, making the experience even more special. The couple had some other unique touches planned: they brought along running shoes and John’s favourite brown hat—an accessory Bonnie adores. After the ceremony, they both laced up their sneakers and together we set off on a tour of the Wildlife Preserve, capturing stunning photos along the way. Specifically, Bonnie’s choice of a striking silk green dress instead of traditional white added a personal flair to the day.
The Wildlife Preserve held deep meaning for Bonnie and John, and with the sanctuary’s shuttle service enhancing the experience, the day felt seamless. Brittney, our shuttle driver, radiated warmth and enthusiasm, contributing to the day’s perfection. Surprisingly, we encountered baby muskoxen and woodland caribou, which is a rarity at weddings! They even allowed us to use some antlers as photo props, leading to an enchanting shot of their matching wedding bands.
Our final stop was a breathtaking overlook, where we captured some of my favourite shots just before an unexpected hailstorm rolled in. The Yukon Wildlife Preserve proved to be a wedding venue as unique and special as the couple themselves. Undoubtedly, I left in awe of its beauty, and looking through the photos, I can still feel the magic of that unforgettable day!
Yukon Wildlife Preserve
View Website Here
@yukonwildlifeprecerve
Sheila Dodd – Marriage Commissioner
Briar Rose Photography