A Nita Lake Wedding That Felt Like a Holiday With Family
Kali and Justin’s Nita Lake wedding felt less like a single day and more like a shared holiday with the people they love most. With all of their guests traveling in from California and across the U.S., Whistler was the perfect place to slow down, connect, and celebrate together over a full weekend.
The two originally knew each other back in high school before reconnecting in college, quickly becoming best friends and eventually building a life together — complete with their Labrador, Sage. Their vision for the day was simple and meaningful: laughter, dancing, a few happy tears, and time with the people who matter most.
Nita Lake Lodge delivered that feeling beautifully.





Getting Ready at Nita Lake Lodge
Kali and Justin got ready at Nita Lake Lodge, surrounded by their closest friends and family. Being in the same location — but separate spaces — always creates a relaxed energy. Wedding parties can float between rooms, check in on each other, and share those pre-ceremony moments without rushing.
From a photography standpoint, it’s ideal. It allows us to be present for everything and keep the timeline smooth and flexible — which sets the tone for the entire day.
Private River Vows: Creating Space for an Intimate Moment
Before the ceremony, we planned something intentional into the timeline: a quiet adventure away from the lodge.
After their first look, we headed to the river. The rushing water was loud enough to create privacy, allowing Kali and Justin to share personal vows without an audience. They had both expressed some nerves about reading vows in front of guests, and this moment gave them space to be fully present with each other.
These are the kinds of moments that don’t just happen — they’re created through thoughtful planning. Slowing down here made the rest of the day feel even more grounded and meaningful.
Wedding Party Portraits With Room to Breathe
Back at Nita Lake Lodge, we met up with the wedding party for portraits before the ceremony. Kali and Justin wanted photos that felt candid and natural — moving, laughing, interacting — rather than stiff or overly posed.
This approach is especially helpful for couples who don’t feel totally confident in front of the camera. Giving space to move, talk, and just be together creates images that feel real and connected, while still making the most of the incredible surroundings.
A Lakeside Ceremony at Nita Lake Lodge
The ceremony took place under the porte cochere, a beautiful spot that feels both intimate and open to the landscape. Surrounded by family, friends, and the calm of the lake nearby, Kali and Justin’s ceremony was filled with warmth, humour, and emotion.
It was one of those ceremonies where you could feel how deeply supported they are — not just celebrated, but genuinely loved.
Cocktail Hour on The Den Patio & Sunset on the Dock
Following the ceremony, guests gathered on The Den Patio overlooking Nita Lake for cocktail hour. This space is one of the reasons Nita Lake Lodge is such a strong Whistler wedding venue — it encourages people to linger, talk, and soak in the view.
As the sun began to dip, we snuck away for sunset photos on the dock. Soft light reflecting off the lake, mountains in the distance, and a few quiet moments together before the evening unfolded — a perfect pause in the day.
Dinner, Speeches, and a Night Full of Laughter
The celebration continued indoors with dinner, heartfelt speeches, and a dance floor that stayed lively well into the night. The energy was exactly what Kali and Justin had hoped for: joyful, relaxed, and full of laughter.
From private vows by the river to lakeside sunset portraits, this Nita Lake wedding was a reminder that the best days aren’t rushed — they’re intentional.




































































My opinion on Nita Lake Lodge Weddings can be seen here, or check out Lindsay and Kevin’s wedding earlier in the summer!
Nita Lake Wedding Vendors
Photography | Whistler Steve
Hair and Make-up | Kerry Waring
Florals | Senka Florist
Venue | Nita Lake Lodge
Music | Coast Mountain DJs