
If you’re dreaming of a whimsical, vibrant wedding day that feels like it was pulled straight from the pages of a fairytale, Tiffany and Brett’s Nanaimo celebration is proof that magic really does exist. Captured by our team at Hayley Zumkeller Photography, this Nanaimo wedding was full of colour, heart, and some of the most emotional and unforgettable moments we’ve seen as a wedding photographer and videographer team based in Victoria, BC. Whether you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Victoria or planning your Vancouver Island wedding from afar, this blog has everything from heartfelt first looks to sunset portraits that took our breath away.
The wedding day began in the best way—on the same lush property, with the bride and groom getting ready in separate Airbnbs surrounded by close friends and family. Brett and his groomsmen looked incredibly sharp in classic suits while enjoying a relaxed start to the day. Meanwhile, Tiffany and her bridesmaids had a Pinterest-worthy morning in a dreamy Airbnb featuring high ceilings and glowing natural light—a photographer’s dream.
Each bridesmaid wore a different pastel hue—soft pink, golden yellow, vibrant blue, and spring green. Their robes matched their dresses and, more impressively, their individual bouquets. Every element was designed with intention, bringing Tiffany’s spring-inspired vision to life. This is where being a wedding photographer in Victoria, BC, and on Vancouver Island is such a joy—you get to capture stunning palettes that perfectly echo the island’s natural beauty.
Tiffany’s gown was something straight out of a storybook. With delicate flowing sleeves and intricate detail, her look was whimsical and ethereal. Once dressed, she shared emotional moments with her mom and friends before we captured timeless portraits of her in glowing window light. From the start, we knew this day was going to be unforgettable.








The emotional highlight of the morning? Tiffany’s series of first looks. One with her dad, another with her brother, and finally, the most anticipated: her first look with Brett.
Brett was already crying before he even turned around. They held each other and read deeply personal vows privately. There were tears, laughter, and even a photo where a single teardrop rolls down Tiffany’s cheek as Brett reaches to wipe it away. As a wedding photo and video team in Victoria, BC, these are the moments we live for—pure, honest emotion.
And because they did their first look early, we were able to jump right into wedding party photos. The group dynamic was electric. We captured elegant groupings, fun poses, candid laughter, and let everyone celebrate with drinks and music before the ceremony even began. When your photo and video team is experienced in both sides of coverage, moments like these get documented from every beautiful angle.
Held outdoors under clear skies, their ceremony was an emotional dream. Tiffany’s dad walked her down the aisle as both tried to hold back tears. Brett—once again crying—was fully present, soaking in every moment thanks to the nerves shaken off during their first look.
One unique touch? Their dogs delivered the rings! Yes—two adorable wiener dogs sprinted down the aisle and absolutely stole the show. Add in stunning ocean views, loving guests, and heart-filled vows, and it was everything you could hope for in a Vancouver Island ceremony.
We also made sure to document family reactions and guest expressions, because candid photography is key to telling the full story. As a Victoria wedding photographer and videographer, our approach is always to anticipate these moments so you can relive them forever.





















Immediately following the ceremony, we moved into family portraits—a part of the day that many couples worry will take too long or feel chaotic. Our method is simple and efficient: start with the biggest group and scale down. In about 20-30 minutes, we captured everything the couple wanted, from full family groupings to intimate moments with individual parents.
The backdrop? Stunning ocean views and the very place where Tiffany and Brett met: the grounds surrounding the Nanaimo Airbnb property. The setting held deep personal significance, and that makes the photos feel even more special.
Tiffany and Brett’s cocktail hour was filled with thoughtful details. Guests painted a collective canvas that the couple would later hang in their home. This interactive element was such a sweet way to bring guests into the experience.
There was also a pizza truck dishing out artisan slices, and of course, we were capturing candid shots of kids playing, guests mingling, laughter in motion, and spontaneous hugs. With no official wedding party, the couple had ample time to connect with every guest—a beautiful decision that made everyone feel seen.
Speeches rolled into this relaxed vibe perfectly. We caught every tear, every laugh, and every shared glance between Tiffany and Brett.







When the light started to dip, we snuck Tiffany and Brett away for golden hour portraits. The sky turned cotton-candy pink, and the images from this part of the day? Chef’s kiss. We captured them walking hand-in-hand through glowing fields, under the veil, and even with their vintage car—which, plot twist, wouldn’t start. Cue their guests pushing the car, dust flying, light beams glowing, and Tiffany running after Brett barefoot. It made for one of our all-time favorite images.
Later, they shared a private first dance on a trendy checkered dance floor before being joined by guests. Their dances with parents were heartwarming and funny—Brett even did a mini drinking challenge with his parents!
What’s a whimsical wedding without an ice cream truck? Tiffany and Brett served scoops to their guests, which we captured in detail before snapping final portraits with their dogs in their car. Sunset wrapped them in golden hues, and our wedding photo and video team in Victoria, BC, captured every second.
They ended their celebration with a sparkler exit—all their guests lighting the way as they laughed and kissed and said goodbye to the best day ever.









As a wedding photographer and videographer team based in Victoria, BC, our favorite weddings are the ones that reflect a couple’s personality and story. Tiffany and Brett’s day was everything: luxury meets whimsy, emotional meets playful, elegant meets real.
We captured it all: getting ready, emotional first looks, vows, the dogs, the pizza truck, the painting table, the speeches, the golden hour portraits, and the dancing. Because your wedding deserves to be remembered in full color, not just highlight reels.

Whether you’re planning a wedding in Nanaimo, Victoria, Tofino, or anywhere across Vancouver Island, we offer full-service wedding photography and videography. Our approach is documentary-style with a cinematic flair—meant to make you feel the day again every time you look back.
We help you:
We’d love to hear about your vision.
📸 Follow me on Instagram: @hayleyzumkellerphotography
💻 Learn more about my wedding photography + videography services: View Services
📨 Ready to chat? Get in Touch and let’s make magic.
Whether you’re eloping by the ocean or planning a full weekend celebration, we’ll be there to tell the story exactly as it felt. Let’s do this!

Whether you’re planning a wedding in Nanaimo, Victoria, Tofino, or anywhere across Vancouver Island, we offer full-service wedding photography and videography. Our approach is documentary-style with a cinematic flair—meant to make you feel the day again every time you look back.
We help you:
We’d love to hear about your vision.
📸 Follow me on Instagram: @hayleyzumkellerphotography
💻 Learn more about my wedding photography + videography services: View Services
📨 Ready to chat? Get in Touch and let’s make magic.
Whether you’re eloping by the ocean or planning a full weekend celebration, we’ll be there to tell the story exactly as it felt. Let’s do this!
