One of the joys of being part of the same community for many years is watching people’s lives unfold. In the summer of 2022, Aiden and I went on a mission trip to Peru with Daniel, one of the trip leaders. Aiden especially got to know him better during this time. When we returned to Peru the following summer, Daniel spoke fondly of a girl named Rachel that he had begun dating. Even though he was leaving for a year-long school program abroad, it was clear he was serious about their future together.

Over the past few years, it has been a joy to watch their love story grow. So when we got the text that Daniel was planning to propose, we couldn’t have been more excited! Shortly after, Rachel and Daniel reached out to ask if we would be their wedding photographers—and we happily said, “Yes!”

Rachel & Daniel: A Love Story Rooted in Friendship and Faith

Rachel and Daniel’s story goes all the way back to grade six. Their relationship grew through shared experiences and thoughtful prayer about their future. While distance and schooling meant pausing their relationship at times, those seasons apart only strengthened their bond.

Today, they find joy in the simple things—dinner dates, long drives, and movie nights. Their story is one of quiet resilience and deep connection, and it was an honor to capture this chapter through a session that felt true to who they are.

A Unique Idea for a Calgary Winter Engagement Photoshoot

For a few weeks, I had their engagement session on my mind, waiting for the right concept to hit. Then, while sipping coffee with Denis on a Saturday morning, it came to me: “Ice skating engagement session!” I texted Rachel and Daniel right away—and they loved the idea just as much as I did.

As a longtime hockey player, Daniel has spent countless hours on the ice. Pairing this with a romantic winter date felt like a meaningful way to reflect his passion and their playful connection. It was also a unique twist on a classic winter engagement session—and fun to see that the idea is gaining popularity, too. (Shoutout to the latest Rocky Mountain Bride issue for unintentionally validating my idea with a similar session featured inside. 😊)

Why Bowness Park Was the Perfect Winter Engagement Location

There are many gorgeous winter engagement locations in Calgary, but Bowness Park checked all the boxes for this session. With its frozen lagoon, cozy fire pits, charming café, and twinkling lights, it provided a whimsical, romantic setting that felt like a real winter date night.

When we first scouted the park, conditions weren’t ideal—grey skies and slushy snow made everything feel lackluster. But by the time we returned for the shoot, the skies had cleared and a fresh dusting of snow made everything sparkle. The temperature was crisp but comfortable, and Rachel’s soft lilac sweater stood out beautifully against the snow-covered landscape.

Looking for more great Calgary engagement photo locations? Bowness Park is one of our top picks for its accessibility, charm, and variety of scenic backdrops—especially in winter.

A Cozy and Playful Engagement Session in Calgary

This was one very fun engagement session to bring to life. From the moment the idea popped into my head, I had a clear vision of how I wanted it to unfold.

We started the session with cozy hot chocolates at the café, capturing candid moments of laughter and warmth. Next, we headed to the fire pits, where the couple shared sweet moments in the glow of the flames. From there, we made our way to the frozen lagoon for some playful skating shots.

For the final portion of the session, we ventured to a quiet, snow-covered section of the creek, where the absence of crowds allowed for uninterrupted photos. We wrapped up the session at the famous train tracks and some beautifully positioned trees that provided the perfect natural framing and open shade.

Planning Your Own Calgary Winter Engagement Session?

Whether you’re a couple who loves the outdoors, has a unique shared interest, or just wants something beyond the ordinary, a personalized engagement shoot can tell your story in a beautiful way. Sessions like this one show how incorporating real-life activities—like skating—makes for authentic, emotional images.

Ready to plan your own Calgary engagement session? Reach out to us here, or explore our wedding photography packages to learn more about what’s included.