Planning an elopement at Baxter’s Harbour in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley was nothing short of a dream come true. This stunning location, nestled on the Bay of Fundy, boasts towering black cliffs, striking rock formations, lush moss-covered caves, a mesmerizing waterfall, and the Atlantic ocean. Depending on the tide, you can even walk along the ocean floor – a truly magical experience. As challenging as this shoot was to execute, it was worth every effort to see my vision come to life. As a wedding and elopement photographer based in Nova Scotia, I feel incredibly lucky to work in such breathtaking locations.

The Vision

This styled shoot was all about blending the raw beauty of nature with an editorial, romantic aesthetic. I wanted to create an unforgettable scene that showcased the unique charm of Baxter’s Harbour while incorporating luxurious and thoughtful details. From the cascading florals to the pearl accents, every element was carefully curated to embrace the coastal vibe and highlight the natural surroundings.

The Challenges

Pulling off an elopement in such a remote location required meticulous planning and determination. The walk into Baxter’s Harbour is strenuous, and carrying rentals and decor to the site added an extra layer of complexity. Nature also played a significant role in the logistics – with tide charts dictating our timeline and unpredictable water levels forcing last-minute adjustments.

The Incredible Vendors

This vision couldn’t have come to life without the incredible small businesses from Nova Scotia that collaborated on this shoot. Every detail was a testament to their talent and dedication:

• Two Birds One Stone Flower Farm – Sarah not only designed the vibrant bouquet and cascading florals for the tablescape but also went above and beyond to help on the day of the shoot. When the tide didn’t recede as much as expected, she waded into the frigid October waters to help position the table in just the right spot, even sacrificing her flip-flops to the ocean in the process! Her determination and creativity truly brought the scene together.
• The Wedding Vogue provided rentals that perfectly complemented the shoot’s aesthetic, including key pieces for our tablescape.
• Danielle Grasley worked her magic on hair and makeup, giving our bride a flawless, chic look that perfectly aligned with the coastal romance theme.
• Paper Chain Stationery crafted exquisite vow books and menus that added a personal and elegant touch.
• Reverie Bridal Shop supplied a stunning veil, elevating the bride’s look to match the editorial vintage vibe of the shoot.
• Niche Floral Decor contributed a faux floral arch that served as a breathtaking ceremony focal point against the dramatic natural backdrop.
  

The Couple

Jack and Jayde, a newly married couple, were the perfect fit for this shoot. Their chemistry and love for each other shone through in every frame, bringing an authentic warmth to the editorial concept.

The Day of the Shoot

The day was filled with laughter, spontaneity, and unforgettable moments. When setting up the tablescape, the higher-than-expected tide meant we had to get creative. My dream was to place the table in a few inches of water for an editorial look that blended seamlessly with the environment. Many of us ended up knee-deep in mud and water (we were sinking in it like quicksand!) – a chaotic and hilarious experience that added an element of fun to the day. Despite the challenges, the results were everything I had envisioned and more.

The Details

The overall vibe of the shoot was editorial, nature-inspired, romantic, and coastal. We incorporated:

• Pearl accents for an elegant touch.
• Moss and seashells to reflect the natural surroundings.
• Paper parasols for a whimsical and chic flair.
• Silk wedding dresses that flowed beautifully against the coastal backdrop.
• A bold yet romantic bouquet featuring white, green, maroon, and red flowers to tie everything together.

Bringing It All Together

This styled shoot was a labor of love, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a celebration of Nova Scotia’s small businesses and natural beauty. Baxter’s Harbour provided the perfect canvas for a truly unique elopement experience, and seeing my vision come to life surrounded by such incredible talent was nothing short of magical.

For couples dreaming of an adventurous and breathtaking elopement, let this serve as inspiration that with the right team and a little determination, the possibilities are endless. Reach out for more information on adventure elopements; I would love to be your photographer!

Photos, planning + design by Shaina Sterrett Photography