Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, Kristine and Rod’s elopement at Quarry Lake was nothing short of magical. This was a cold one and also one for the books. This wasn’t the beginning of their story, but it was a deeply intentional chapter, chosen with clarity, joy, and a whole lot of heart by two people who know themselves. They got married before heading off to a new adventure and a new home. Kristine’s son and some of her colleagues tagged along for this special day. The temperatures reached below -20 but they were both champions. They have such a great way of laughing together and warming each other up.
The Beauty of Quarry Lake for Elopements
Quarry Lake in Canmore offers a perfect setting for couples who want a mix of mountain views and serene waters for their big day. With the Three Sisters mountains rising in the background, it creates a stunning natural frame for elopement photos.
The lake area has plenty of spots that work for small ceremonies. From the water’s edge to the surrounding forest trails, each location gives a different feel and look to your photos.
During winter months, the snow-covered landscape turns into a white wonderland. This makes for amazing contrast in photos, much like what you can see in Winter engagement Photos in Calgary.
Braving the Cold: Kristine & Rod’s Winter Elopement
Winter elopements bring their own charm and challenges. For Kristine and Rod, the below -20 temperatures didn’t stop them from having their dream day.
How They Stayed Warm
- Straight from the car to the ceremony
- Warm boots and Kristine had a cover
- Wearing layers under their wedding attire
- Snuggling super close
- Sharing lots of hugs and laughter
The cold actually created some of the most striking images – their breath visible in the crisp air, rosy cheeks, and the way they held each other close for warmth all added to the romance of their photos.
If you’re planning a winter wedding, check out my guide on How to plan a winter wedding in Calgary for more tips on handling cold weather on your big day.
If you are looking for other locations to plan your beautiful Alberta Rocky Mountain elopement, you can see Sarah and Malcolm’s wedding at Moraine Lake and Banff.
5 Tips for Planning Your Own Quarry Lake Elopement in Canmore
- Check permit requirements – Quarry Lake is a popular spot and you may need a permit for your ceremony, even for small elopements.
- Consider the seasons – Summer brings lush greenery and wildflowers, fall offers golden colors, winter has snow-covered beauty, and spring shows off mountain reflections on calm waters.
- Time your session right – Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) creates the most flattering photos at Quarry Lake.
- Have a backup plan – Mountain weather can change quickly. Have an indoor option or nearby sheltered area as a Plan B. Or just dress for the occasion!
- Hire vendors who know the area – They know about permits and can help with the unique aspects of a mountain elopement.
Capturing Authentic Moments at Quarry Lake
The best elopement photos tell your unique story. For Kristine and Rod, their connection shined through as they kept each other warm and shared laughs despite the cold.
Small elopements allow for more intimate moments to be captured. Without the pressure of a big wedding day timeline, couples can truly be present with each other.
Finding the right photographer who can capture these real moments is key. Learn more about How to Choose the perfect wedding photographer for you to make sure your special day is documented just the way you want.
Recommended Vendors for Canmore Elopements
If you’re planning your own Quarry Lake elopement, these local professionals came highly recommended:
- Married by Cole – For a personal and heartfelt ceremony
- The Loft Hair and Beauty Lounge – For bridal hair and makeup that stands up to mountain weather
Frequently Asked Questions About Quarry Lake Elopements
How far in advance should I book my Quarry Lake elopement?
For peak season (June-September), book your date and vendors at least 6-8 months in advance. For winter elopements, 3-4 months is usually enough time.
Can we bring our dog to our Quarry Lake elopement?
Yes! Quarry Lake is dog-friendly as long as they remain on leash and stay away from the pond. Many couples include their pets in their elopement ceremonies.
What happens if it rains on our elopement day?
Rain in the mountains can create dramatic and romantic photos. I always bring clear umbrellas just in case, and we can also use nearby trees for cover or duck into your car between shots.
How long does a typical elopement photo session at Quarry Lake take?
Most couples book 1-2 hours for elopement photos. This gives us enough time to capture the ceremony, portraits, and some candid moments without feeling rushed.
Is Quarry Lake accessible year-round?
Yes, the parking lot is plowed in winter, though paths may be snow-covered. In all seasons, the lake is just a short walk from the parking area.
Ready for Your Own Quarry Lake Elopement Photos?
If Kristine and Rod’s winter elopement has sparked your interest in a Canmore mountain backdrop for your own special day, I’d love to chat about capturing your Quarry Lake elopement photographs!
Whether you’re planning a sunny summer celebration or a snowy winter ceremony like Kristine and Rod, Quarry Lake offers a stunning setting for intimate elopements year-round.
Get in touch today to check my availability for your Canmore elopement plans: Contact Me
