Full Gallery | Pearson College Wedding | Victoria BC Wedding Photographer
When it comes to weddings that feel deeply personal, meaningful, and breathtakingly beautiful, Abigail and Arran’s celebration at Pearson College near Victoria, BC was exactly that.
From the intimate moments of getting ready to the laughter-filled games during dinner, every part of their day reflected who they are—joyful, intentional, and surrounded by so much love. As a Victoria BC Wedding Photographer, this was the kind of wedding that reminds me why I do what I do.
Getting Ready at Pearson College: Spacious, Light-Filled, and Sentimental
The entire wedding day took place at Pearson College, which is not only a stunning campus by the ocean but also the place where Abigail and Arran met—so it held a special kind of magic.
Rather than a traditional wedding party, these two chose to get ready with close friends and family. Abigail and the ladies gathered in a forest-surrounded cabin, filled with big windows and high ceilings (every photographer’s dream for natural light!). It was calm, warm, and the perfect space to soak in the morning energy. We captured dreamy flatlays of her details, candid shots of makeup and champagne, and emotional moments between her and her mom, and her soon-to-be mother-in-law.
Over on the other side of campus, Arran and his crew were helping each other with ties, cracking jokes, and getting ready in one of the dorm’s spacious common areas. The relaxed vibes were contagious—it made for beautiful, natural photos that showed their friendships and pre-wedding excitement.
First Look in the Sanctuary: A Quiet Moment to Breathe
Abigail and Arran did their first look in a quiet sanctuary tucked away on the Pearson College campus. This moment was everything. Abigail tapped Arran on the shoulder, and when he turned around, they both started crying and laughing. It was such a grounded, emotional reset before the rest of the day unfolded.
This is why I always recommend a first look if couples want a moment of peace before the ceremony. There’s something special about seeing each other early in the day, without a crowd of 100+ watching.
Oceanfront Ceremony With a Twist: Drawing Witnesses from a Hat
The ceremony was held outdoors, overlooking the ocean. The views? Absolutely unreal. But what made it even more memorable was how personal and interactive the experience was.
Instead of pre-selecting witnesses, Abigail and Arran drew two guest names from a bowl—a playful, heartfelt touch that got everyone involved. Arran walked down the aisle with his mom, and Abigail walked with her dad. As they locked eyes, Arran teared up. The entire ceremony was emotional, authentic, and surrounded by their loved ones.
As a wedding photographer in Victoria BC, I made sure to focus on those powerful, fleeting expressions—the tears, the laughs, the way their families looked at them during their vows.
Confetti Toss & Group Hug Moments
After sealing the deal with a kiss, they walked down the aisle into a cloud of colorful confetti. Right at the end of the aisle, they stopped for a dip kiss moment—the kind of shot you dream about!
Instead of rushing into formals, they took time to hug every guest—which made for incredible candid photos. One tip I always give couples: schedule enough time post-ceremony to soak it all in. These little moments of joy and connection go by fast.
We did one massive group photo of all 150+ guests (yes, it’s possible!) before heading into family portraits. We captured everything from posed formals to beautiful, emotional images of the bride with each parent—including natural interactions that often become favorites in the final gallery.
Cocktail Hour Bliss: Candid Moments With Every Guest
Because Abigail and Arran didn’t have a traditional wedding party, they had extra time to spend with guests during cocktail hour—which made the entire day feel more relaxed.
There was a beautiful bar setup, kids running around, old friends reconnecting—and I made it a mission to get a candid of every guest. These are the photos that help couples remember how it felt to have all their favorite people in one place.
Games, Speeches & Surprise Swedish Traditions
Before dinner, the couple kicked off a trivia game where each table had to guess questions to earn their spot in the buffet line. It was hilarious, light-hearted, and had everyone laughing.
Then came a surprise tradition: when the bride left to go to the bathroom, all the women rushed to kiss Arran on the cheek—a nod to Swedish customs that had the room in stitches.
During dinner, speeches were short and sweet (which I always recommend). Abigail and Arran’s reactions were priceless. From emotional tears to full-on belly laughs, I made sure to capture both their faces and the reactions from the crowd.
One of the best speeches of the night? Abigail’s dad. He used props and had the whole room cracking up.
Golden Hour Escape: Quiet Moments on the Dock
After a full afternoon of laughter and energy, I could tell the couple needed a breather. So we snuck out for 25 minutes to catch the sunset.
This golden hour session down on the dock was pure magic. The sun hit just right, and the two of them were finally alone again. They danced, laughed, and took in the view—and I just happened to be there to document it. These are the kinds of portraits that feel most like you because you’re not posing, you’re just being.
First Dance, Parent Dances, and the Ultimate Dance Floor
The couple jumped straight into their first dance when they returned, and I loved how personal and calm it felt. That flowed into parent dances, and then—boom—the dance floor exploded with energy.
Guests were ready. I stayed for an hour to document the fun, from YMCA sing-alongs under twinkly lights to full-on dance battles.
Pro tip: Tell your DJ to hype the dance floor as you return from sunset portraits. It creates an energy shift that guests won’t forget.
Why Pearson College Might Be One of the Best Wedding Venues in Victoria BC
This campus doesn’t just have incredible views—it has meaning. For Abigail and Arran, it was the place they met and fell in love. It offered spacious accommodations, forest paths, oceanfront views, and space for 150+ guests to feel at home.
If you’re looking for wedding venues in Victoria BC that blend nature, story, and a truly unique setting—Pearson College deserves a spot on your list.
Final Thoughts From Your Victoria BC Wedding Photographer
Every wedding is a story. Abigail and Arran’s story was full of connection, humor, intimacy, and beauty—and I feel so lucky I got to capture it all on both Photo and iPhone Video.
If you’re planning your wedding in Victoria, Vancouver Island, or anywhere along the West Coast, and you’re looking for someone to photograph the real, heartfelt moments while helping you feel confident and relaxed—I’d love to chat.
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