head over to the new KevinTrowbridge.com - your viewing the pre-2012 archive

2010 10 01

Alyssa & Brandon - a woodland fairytale ceremony

After knowing Alyssa & Brandon through friends for years, I was so honoured to have been chosen to photograph their wedding.  Their unique approach to choosing their wedding venues showed how authentically they live their lives.  The girls got ready at a exquisitely restored Kelowna heritage home at which they also returned to for their Thanksgiving style reception.

Alyssa's mother slipped a vintage fur and pearls on to her daughter's shoulders completing the elegance that she naturally bestows.  Every step they walked down the forest trails at Mill Creek Park towards the stand of trees where their ceremony took place felt like it was a deeper step into an enchanted forest.   I don't often get to shoot deep in a forest cover and the experience was magical.  With the soft overhead light, drooping cedar bows, golden aisle of fall leaves, and the sound of the creek gurgling in the background it set the stage for one of the most memorable ceremonies I have ever experienced.  Brandon professed his love with such conviction, he brought nearly everyone to tears.  Once the ceremony was completed their wedding party and family walked up to a nearby waterfall for some creative group portraits and returned to find a picnic laid out on the bridge.  I returned to the ceremony location with Alyssa & Brandon to capture the quiet grace that their love conveys.  We continued for a stroll through some special corners of the park and then headed to the industrial district of Kelowna to make use of the towers of rustic apple packing boxes and alleys decorated with weathered patina.  At the train yard Brandon approached the train engineer and sweet-talked his way into letting them hop on, leading to some memorable photographs.  As the night approached, we headed back to the heritage house, where family and friends gathered and warm comfort foods awaited their arrival.  A Thanksgiving to remember!
 

Check out their fairytale wedding story in the slideshow below!

2010 10 01

Courtney & Myles - mighty fine heels

We were lucky enough to get to know this charismatic couple during their August engagement session and rehearsal, which made a huge difference in the level of connection and ease of direction that I had with them on their wedding day. 

A splash of vintage glamour and lightheartedness encompassed Courtney & Myles' October wedding at Summerhill Winery.  This Calgary couple have a love for all things from the good ol' days of the 1920's and 1930's, which diffused into the classic and fun atmosphere of their wedding.  Myles and the boys along with some strong coffee, headed to an old school barber shop first thing in the morning to get a straight-razor shave.  The girls' donned sparkly black heels, while the bride adorned herself with hot pink sparkly heels and matching bold lipstick.  Making use of Summerhill's historical log house and the iconic pyramid provided a timeless backdrop to their unforgettable day. 

Enjoy the Slideshow!
 

2010 09 04

Lindsay & Mike - two gowns and the sweetest tears
This wedding had the classic bones of a stunning venue, formal wear, and decadent decor, but with an unconventional approach.  The couple decided to meet each other before the ceremony for a first look, which was tearful and heartwarming. As Mike looked out over the Okanagan lake from up in the vine-covered gazebo, surrounded by lagoons, Lindsay approached after an emotional parting from her mother and maid-of honour.  Upon the touch of his shoulder, Mike turned and joy spread across his face as he first embraced his stunning bride on their wedding day.  These moments alone and the sweet words whispered in her ear brought heartfelt tears to Lindsay's eyes.  A short walk to the back alleys of the Kelowna Arts district lent itself to some modern and edgy portraits.  After treating Mike and Lindsay to gelato for a short break and candid photos, I found out that the two of them were reminiscing about the gelato they had when Mike proposed during a romantic gondola ride on the Venice waterways.  The bride surprised her future husband by switching into a different gown for the ceremony, which brought a great sense of emotion and individuality to the day.  After the last touchups were complete the girls were off to the couple's tented ceremony overlooking the lush grounds of the The Harvest Golf Club.  Following were embraces from family and a champagne toast.  While guest entered the second tent for an outdoor reception decadently decorated by Stage Right Etc, I took the wedding party down the orchards for some casual portraits and a bottle of brut.  The couple made their grand entrance and were treated to a boisterous welcoming and a host of DJ Haymaker's outrageous party games.  As the sun was setting, I rushed the couple out only steps away from their reception to the ponds for their final portraits.  The wind gusted and pale dusk light lit their passionate eyes, while they held each other tight to stay warm. A magnificent end to a day of beauty and perfection.

Enjoy the slideshow!

primary photographer: Kevin Trowbridge / second shooter: Jason Krumm
venue: The Harvest Golf Club, Kelowna
decor: Stage Right Etc
DJ/MC: Jeff Hay - DJ Haymaker
accommodations: Hotel Eldorado, Kelowna
salon: Eveline Charles, Kelowna Mission
designers of wedding gowns: Blue By Enzoni / Simone Carvalli

2010 08 22

Olivia & Eric - a wish for rain

At Summerhill Winery amongst the vineyards and overlooking the endless Okanagan lake, Eric & Olivia find perfection in their love with a bit of Parisian flare. The bride wished for rain and the wedding was graced with light showers and even a beautiful rainbow...true perfection.  I feel that the lyrics to the song “La Vie En Rose” written by Louis Gugliemi in 1946 elegantly express the love and beauty that they have for life and each other.  The English translation likely does not embody the complete romance conveyed by the French lyrics, but it will provide a glimpse:

“Life in Rosy Hues”

Eyes that gaze into mine,
A smile that is lost on his lips—
That is the unretouched portrait
Of the man to whom I belong.

When he takes me in his arms
And speaks softly to me,
I see life in rosy hues.
He tells me words of love,
Words of every day,
And in them I become something.

He has entered my heart,
A part of happiness
Whereof I understand the reason.
It’s he for me and I for him, throughout life,
He has told me, he has sworn to me, for life.
And from the things that I sense,
Now I can feel within me
My heart that beats.

In endless nights of love,
A great delight that comes about,
The pains and bothers are banished,
Happy, happy to die of love.

When he takes me in his arms
And speaks softly to me,
I see life in rosy hues.
He tells me words of love,
Words of every day,
And in them I become something.

He has entered my heart,
A part of happiness
Whereof I understand the reason.

It’s he for me and I for him, throughout life,
He has told me, he has sworn to me, for life.
And from the things that I sense,
Now I can feel within me
My heart that beats.

primary photographer: Kevin Trowbridge / second shooter: Jason Krumm
venue: Summerhill Pyramid Winery
decor: Stage Right Etc
accommodations: Hotel Eldorado, Kelowna

2010 08 21

Emily & Brad - away in the countryside

A country romance placed in the setting of the Carlson family farm could not be more romantic.  Backed by the cliffs surrounding the secluded river valley, the ceremony commenced with Emily and her bridal party being chauffeured by her father in his vintage Jaguar.  Smoke filled the sky from the summer fires and provided a magnificent golden hue, while soft and sweet words were spoken to seal their vows.  Their friends and family followed the ceremony with warm embraces.  Emily and Brad raced off in the Jag to have a romantic moment together in their emerald field leaving dust trailing in the wind.

primary photographer: Kevin Trowbridge / second shooter: Jason Krumm
venue: Sunnyhome Farms
accommodations: Prestige Harbourfront Resort, Salmon Arm

2010 07 30

Jody & Bib - their sanctuary in the Okanagan

A favourite getaway, a place to relax; their oasis in the Okanagan, God's Mountain Crest Chalet stands above Skaha Lake within picturesque rolling vineyards reminiscent of Tuscany.  Bib opens the cherrywood case and slides the stunning solitaire onto Jody's finger.  Her eye's light up and she brings Bib close for a tight embrace. After enjoying their time together, he runs up to the kitchen and brings back a Mediterranean platter of decadent handmade cheeses, artisan breads, and specialty olives, while Jody pours glasses of Riesling grown within the vineyards in which they are sitting.  The wasps however take over their idyllic dining spot and encourage a walk in through the rows of vines; a pause for a kiss, blowing massive dandelions like kids, and stopping to enjoy the view.  In the soft sunset light, their profiles are etched in my mind against the expansive blue sky.  Changing into their formal Indian attire for the second half of the shoot made for a stunning contrast of burgundies, blacks and gold against the vibrant green of the vineyards.  Touching moments, endearing gazes, and laughter carried on through the evening. 

My wife & I were lucky enough to have the time to be able to sit down at the end of the shoot, enjoy a glass of wine and get to know Jody & Bib much more personally. In one year to the day, this beautiful couple will be exchanging their vows in the vineyards of Cedar Creek Estate and I can't wait for the experience of shooting their wedding.

2010 07 09

Julia & Dale - hometown e-session
As Julia's hand touches his face that moment of nervousness in front of the camera fades and his attention is caught by her loving, doe-eyed gaze.  The dress Dale picked out for her flowing in the summer breeze reminds her of her childhood and the innocent times at the edge of Vaseux Lake.  Feeling fresh and full of life, enthralled with ideas and inspiration of their future lives together they watch the sun set and wait for their perfect day to celebrate their love - August 13th, 2011

2010 07 04

Emily & Brad - rainy romance
 

Always hoping for sunny, warm skies, but somehow moments in the rain together have an air of romance that exceeds all the brightest days.  As Emily leads Brad down the peaceful beach trail with the sounds of rain droplets individually audible, her contagious giggle keeps the most serious in a light hearted sentiment.  Brad's adoration of her seems to be present in every moment and action as he touches her skin and adjusts her hair.  They leave drenched from the hour of precious time together in the warm July rains, but all the happier for the opportunity to have an excuse to be romantic.  With only weeks until their wedding I hope these photographs to be the testament to how magical their connection truly is for each other.
 

2010 06 06

Lindsay & Mike - a walk down the tracks
This session simply needs few words; they are passionate and beautiful people who look so damn good together! I can't wait to photograph their September wedding at the Harvest Golf Club in Kelowna.

2010 06 05

Karlee & Larry - A Dreamy Country Wedding
Karlee and Larry had a beautiful June wedding ceremony at the Benvoulin Heritage Church with reception to follow at Gallegher's Canyon Golf and Country Club.  Last summer I photographed a fun engagement shoot with them which incorporated Larry's football career with the Okanagan Sun.  Their wedding day was gorgeous complete with vintage car's and a Rolls Royce.  Interspersed between the ceremony and the reception the bride and groom along with the wedding party traveled to many locations stopping for tapas at the Eldorado Hotel, a lakeside dock, a local pub, and yes even McDonalds (these are football players - they have a big appetite).  The final photoshoot of the day took place at sunset with Karlee and Larry romantically featured within the exquisite landscape of Gallegher's Canyon and the Okanagan Valley.  Choosing locations with long grasses, old orchards, and breathtaking vistas allowed me to capture the true romantic feel of this dreamy day.

2010 05 22

Jeanelle & Michael - Vintage Glamour on the Lake
Jeanelle and Michael planned a wedding that was so unique and true to their style.  Their looks hailed from the classy era of the 1920's and 1930's, which has always been one of my favourites.  Michael and Blair, Jeanelle's 8 year-old son, were looking fine in their spats and tuxedos, while Jeanelle wore a custom designed gown in a perfect shade of Tiffany blue.  We started the shoot downtown Kelowna and made our way to the Executive Cruise Ship at City Park, all the while taking advantage of the amazing photo opportunities along the way.  Once on board, a close group of family and friends were there to greet them and join in their ceremony and celebration while taking in the views of the beautiful Okanagan.

2010 05 16

Tiffany & Craig - Garden Party Romance
Tiffany and Craig came from Alberta to get married in the beautiful Okanagan.  They couldn't have chosen better locations - they had it all.  A beautiful and romantic garden ceremony at Elysium Gardens and breathtaking Okanagan Lake views for their reception at The Cove Resort.  Their wedding day was filled with heartfelt emotion shared between friends and family with memories to last a lifetime, including a spontaneous rainfall mid-ceremony!  They were willing to spend as much time as necessary to get the best possible photos from their wedding day and were truly relaxed and affectionate with each other: a photographer's dream!

2010 05 08

Crista & Kerry - Candlelit Pyramid Wedding
Crista and Kerry held their early May wedding at Summerhill Winery.  I love Summerhill Winery, not only because I got married there, but for their most outstanding service, amazing organic wines and food.  The candlelit ceremony in the pyramid was intimate and romantic, followed by stunning panoramic Okanagan lake views at the reception.  I had a great time photographing Crista and Kerry (and Nacho, their adopted Mexican dog) along with the wedding party - they were fun, outgoing, and hilarious.  Check out a few highlights of their gorgeous day below.

2010 05 01

Bagpipes & Wine
Yay, it's May!  We thought we would take a partial day off and celebrate the age old tradition of May Day.  We randomly found a Scottish Bagpipe Competition at Kelowna City Park which mesmerized us, but kinda freaked our dog out (maybe she had a previous life as a wolfhound in some medieval Scottish battle?).  Then we traveled up to Okanagan Landing in Lake Country to check out the opening of the Ex Nihilo Winery.  The owners, Jeff and Decoa, are previous portrait clients and I was so happy to see their vision come to full fruition.  The ambience of their new winery and the quality of their wines are excellent and were a perfect way to wind down our spring celebration. 

And here's one of the photographer himself by Katherine.

2010 03 25

Crista & Kerry - springtime love engagement session
Aww...the beginning of Spring. The world bursts with new life and LOVE is in the air! Crista and Kerry were inspired to have me capture some emotive portraits in their favourite park where they walk their absolutely adorable adopted Mexican dog, Nacho.  Along the way we visited an old apple orchard and some rustic buildings, which provided beautiful backdrops for this romantic couple. Crista and Kerry - we had a great time photographing you and look forward to your wedding at Summerhill Winery in May!

2010 03 18

Call me Professor...
I am happy to announce that I have accepted the position of Lead Instructor for the Digital Photography Diploma Program at the Centre for Arts and Technology in Kelowna, a.k.a. CATO.  It is a big responsibility and I am so excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with so many outstanding photographers and professionals on this program.  My biggest excitement is to be able to work with and inspire the up-and-coming creative minds in this industry with the hopes that they can push the creative envelope further than ever before.

I will be very busy over the next couple of weeks meeting with students and instructors, while developing new course content for the April 5th start date.  Check out the www.DigitalArtSchool.com website and feel free to contact me with any questions.

I would like to also take this opportunity to welcome my wife Katherine as office manager of Kevin Trowbridge photography.  I will continue shooting and editing all client work; however, Katherine will now be answering correspondence while I am out of the office and managing many of the day to day tasks.  She has been involved as an integral part of my business since the beginning and is now going to be an amazing asset in the growth and maintenance of our daily business.  I enjoy working with Katherine so much that I even offered to re-brand the business to something like KEV+KAT; however, Katherine prefers to be the brains behind my beautiful creations, offering support in every way without taking the credit. How lucky am I!

2010 02 13

Real Weddings / Bride.ca Editor's Pick - Best Engagement Photos of 2009
I am excited to announce that we have been honored with producing 4 out of 16 of the best engagement photos of 2009. The reason I say "we" is that the top 3 photos that achieved this status were created when my amazing wife Katherine assisted me on the shoots. 
 

Congratulations also to all the beautiful couples that were obviously so integral in helping me achieve this prestigious recognition.  I look forward to producing many more stunning and hopefully award winning images for my 2010 couples.
 

Psst - don't hesitate to contact me now to book your couple's session!

Natalie & Scott - married at Natalie's family home on September 5th, 2009
Touted by Real Weddings as the "best engagement kiss captured on film this year!"
 

Olivia & Eric - to be married at Summerhill Winery on August 22nd, 2010
 

Olivia & Eric - to be married at Summerhill Winery on August 22nd, 2010
 

Jocelyn & Steven - married at The Harvest on August 1st, 2009

Below is the editors final statement:

(*) Canada's Engagement Photo Specialist?

2010 02 13

Heather & David's Italian Seamless wedding album with brushed metal cover
Locations: Summerhill Pyramid Winery & La Casa

2010 01 27

Michele - pop nouveau glamour
Michele was inspired to capture her beauty after browsing through pre-pregnancy photos of herself. After having babies (in Michele's case twins!), life gets a little hectic...but taking the time to honour your beauty is a must! Michele brought some wicked vintage hats to the shoot, her favourite tunes, and oodles of clothing. The result? A photo session bursting with vintage glam and photos to prove that she's more beautiful than ever!  Enjoy the photos and video below.
 

2010 01 03

HEY Ily DAY - into the wee hours... fashionista shoot
Tina, our lovely amazing rock-star socialite tea-wielding goddess friend, enlisted me in her newest personal and academic project that encompasses art, style, and business all wrapped up into a magazine/blog that ultimately expresses her outrageously contagious take on life. Late in the evening until early in the morning, Tina's entourage of hair and make-up artists along with heaps of clothing and accessories filled the studio, adorning our model with the goods to create a range of diverse looks. Check out a few of the images from the night below.

Model: Tina Prichard
Clothing: dlux
Shoes: Asphalt
Hair: Fringe
Makeup: Pure Esthetics
Bling: Matti Martin
Photography: Kevin Trowbridge

head over to the new KevinTrowbridge.com - your viewing the pre-2012 archive