Rustic Chilliwack Wedding
There’s something unforgettable about a truly great summer wedding, especially when it’s held in one of BC’s most scenic country venues. This year, we had the incredible opportunity to photograph a Shelby’s Pond wedding in Chilliwack, and it quickly became one of our favourite experiences. It made it even more special because it was our first time at Tuscan Gardens, Seaside Pearlside Farmgate Winery, and Shelby’s Pond. You could feel the excitement running through the day as we explored new locations and got creative with fresh rustic wedding photo opportunities.
Tuscan Gardens: Getting Ready in Abbotsford
We began the day at Tuscan Gardens in Abbotsford, a beautiful, secluded wedding venue tucked away in the heart of the Fraser Valley. The bride and her closest friends arrived early to get ready in a heritage home on the property. With gardens bursting into bloom, shaded walkways, and a lovely stone patio, everything felt light and airy. If you’re searching for Abbotsford wedding photos or getting ready locations in the valley, Tuscan Gardens is a spot worth considering. There’s something magical about those slow, laughter-filled moments where you catch genuine smiles and little details—a hairpin being adjusted, a toast with sparkling water, hugs before the big reveal.
Seaside Pearl Farmgate Winery: Romantic Portraits in Abbotsford
Once the bride was ready, we did a first look just outside the house, where they had an emotional first look. The bride is expecting, so emotions from everyone were just that much more elevated with happy tears. After taking a few portraits around the garden, we headed over to Seaside Pearl Farmgate Winery just down the road for some private portraits before the festivities. We always love photographing couples at local wineries, and this winery did not disappoint. There’s a romance to wandering among the vines, especially as the sun climbs higher. Winery wedding photos are so rich with colour and texture, it’s easy to capture heartfelt moments with a classic, authentic feel. The newlyweds got to soak in the quiet, share a few words, and enjoy the sweeping views and rustic country charm.
The Ceremony: Shelby’s Pond Wedding Venue in Chilliwack
Then, it was time for the main event: the outdoor ceremony and reception at Shelby’s Pond. This venue truly blew us away. Shelby’s Pond is a one-of-a-kind Chilliwack wedding venue set alongside a sparkling pond, with panoramic views of Mt. Cheam and the surrounding Fraser Valley countryside. It’s the perfect setting for nature lovers and those dreaming of a rustic country wedding. The gardens at Shelby’s Pond are lush and vibrant, offering shade, privacy, and plenty of room on the property for guests to mingle and take photos.
Shelby’s Pond can host up to 150 guests, so whether you’re planning something small and personal or a larger celebration, it’s got you covered. The open-air setup means fresh mountain air, unobstructed views, and plenty of room to style your wedding exactly how you want. The ceremony space itself is surrounded by a farm, gardens, and bordered by the pond, which adds a beautiful, natural backdrop for the vows. Everyone, from the couple to their family and friends, felt relaxed and truly present, which is a testament to the venue’s peaceful energy.
The Reception: Rustic Barn Celebrations
After the ceremony, the festivities moved to the property surrounding the barn for the cocktail hour, which is brimming with rustic character and country style. The barn at Shelby’s Pond is spacious and has that warm, welcoming feel with wood beams overhead, string lights glowing, and room for many tables for guests to gather at. The transition from outdoor celebrations to a barn reception is seamless, so you get the best of both worlds. For more inspiration, browse our barn wedding photo gallery. Shelby’s Pond wedding receptions are perfect for couples wanting to blend natural beauty with a relaxed, country vibe.
Personal Touches: Keepsakes and Memories
One detail that really stood out was the couple’s choice to use their wedding package product credit for a gorgeous metal print of their favourite image, which is the main image in this post. Not only does this make for a modern, timeless keepsake, but it also lets couples celebrate their wedding moments every day at home. We always suggest choosing a photo that sparks joy or reminds you of a special memory.
Closing Thoughts: Fraser Valley Wedding Inspiration
Throughout the day, we were reminded why we love capturing weddings and working as Fraser Valley wedding photographers. Exploring new venues like Shelby’s Pond, Tuscan Gardens, and Seaside Pearl Winery keeps our creativity fresh and gives couples a wide range of beautiful options for their celebration. If you’re searching for Shelby’s Pond wedding inspiration or planning a wedding anywhere in Chilliwack or the Fraser Valley, these venues can help bring your dream day to life.
From lush garden mornings to romantic winery portraits and the magic of a rustic country barn, every moment of this Shelby’s Pond wedding was filled with love, authenticity, and the charm of BC’s summer landscape. It was a privilege to be part of it all and to help create memories the couple will treasure for years to come.
Whether you’re drawn to the peace of Shelby’s Pond, the elegance of Tuscan Gardens, or the classic vineyard vibes of Seaside Pearl Winery, we’d love to help you capture the story of your day with heartfelt photos, genuine connection, and lots of local knowledge.
Contact us today and reach out to find out how we can work together to make your wedding truly unforgettable.