Only a short drive from Red Deer, the River Valley Wedding Venue is the definition of “elegant rustic”. With over 160 acres of the central Alberta prairies (seriously, you can see an oil rig in the distance), it’s a literal breath of fresh air.

The ceremony spot overlooks a lake that only elevates the backdrop as you exchange vows. The iconic barn and its interior sits right behind, and hosts the reception space with high ceilings and deep wooden details. If you have any guests with accessibility requirements, the simple but beautiful layout of the property makes it simple so no one has to miss out.

S+M celebrated their union on an overcast spring day. As an Alberta wedding photographer, I’m used to the unpredictability of the weather here. The clouds acted as a light diffuser in the sky, making their wedding photos look cohesive, timeless, and gorgeous. Not to mention the recent rain made the spring grass look absolutely remarkable.

With the high ceilings of the River Valley Venue, you easily fit about 200 people seated in the reception space and it not feel cramped. A loft overlooks the crowd, allowing for your photographers to get beautiful shots of you & your guests without being disruptive. The night ended off with none other than a traditional Ukrainian dance, further proving the community around the couple. Congratulations S+M on your marriage <3

Venue @rivervalleyweddingvenue

Photography @joannabphoto

Videography @kevinmfilms

Florals @dosiedotes

Hair @blushartistrymua

Makeup @michelldmua

Band @milleniamusic