Romantic & Classic Wedding at the Calgary Zoo | Tiana & Christopher

Written By Anastasia Kircheva

Tiana & Christopher are truly a dream couple who make my job as a Calgary wedding photographer feel like the best gig on earth. Laid-back, fun, and total animal lovers? Heck yes!

Let’s start from the beginning. I first met Tiana & Chris at the Calgary Bridal Expo in 2025. Chris was one of the few grooms who jumped right into the details and I love a hands-on partner! We instantly bonded over travel, languages, and being in culturally mixed relationships. The Bridal Expo is always the perfect place for couples to interview local vendors, explore portfolios, and see if you click.

One of Tiana’s favourite memories from their journey together sums up their connection so well:

"My first trip to Europe, Chris asked where I wanted to go. I asked if we could visit his mum in Paris. Chris is originally from Mons, Belgium, so we drove to Belgium to see his family, then flew to Italy. Seeing where he came from felt so intimate. Even though I didn’t speak French, I felt completely included. Finishing our trip in Venice and Rome meant navigating a new place together where neither of us spoke the language—it really showed us what building a life together feels like."

Lucky for me, I found my dream clients! After locking in their date, time flew by. We even snuck in an engagement photo session in Calgary with their fur baby, Mirabel (let’s be real, Mirabel stole the spotlight, but just look at her!).

Getting Ready & Emotional First Looks

Wedding day morning was a total breeze. Tiana surprised Chris with a secret boudoir book as a wedding morning gift just look at that massive grin on his face! Meanwhile, the ladies popped champagne in their robes. When Tiana did a first look with her dad, there wasn't a dry eye in the room. I blame the wind for my own watery eyes, but tender moments like these are why I love documentary-style wedding photography.

A Bilingual Ceremony at the Calgary Zoo

For couples exploring wedding venues in Calgary, the Calgary Zoo is an absolute gem. Everywhere you look, you’re surrounded by lush greenery, unique animal habitats, and lovely private spaces.

Inclusivity was hugely important to Tiana and Chris. With Christopher’s family flying in from France, Belgium, and Mauritius, they hired officiant Carole Bedard to conduct a seamless bilingual ceremony in English and French. It was such a thoughtful way to honor both cultures and ensure every guest felt included.

Calgary Zoo Wedding Photos & Reception Details

After saying "I do," we explored the grounds for family formals and romantic couples' portraits. The ENMAX Conservatory and the outdoor fields offered incredible backdrops with the warm sun peeking through the trees.

Pro-tip for Calgary brides: Hire a wedding coordinator like Harker & Co. Events who will bring you a quick snack during portraits so you don't get hangry before the reception!

The evening portion was packed with heartfelt speeches in both languages, leaving everyone in a puddle of happy tears. To top it all off, the couple skipped the traditional cake for an irresistible tiramisu cup tower. I may or may not have eaten two just to confirm how delicious it was!

Featured Vendors:

Are you planning a Calgary Zoo wedding or looking for a Calgary wedding photographer to capture your unique love story? I'd love to chat! Reach out through my contact page to check availability for your date.

Anastasia Kircheva
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