Some weddings are effortlessly fun, deeply personal, and visually unforgettable—and Evan & Jess’s summer celebration in Drumheller was exactly that. Set against the cinematic backdrop of the Alberta Badlands, their wedding brought together heartfelt moments, stunning landscapes, and a few joyful surprises (inflatable dinosaur costumes included).

No look first look between bride and groom

About the Couple and Their Day

Evan and Jess first met while studying at SAIT, and their connection was instant. They’re the kind of couple who are always laughing, always having fun—and who clearly adore one another. Jess is a creative with a growing TikTok following where she shares whimsical visual effects, while Evan is a down-to-earth sports guy with a big heart. Together, they dreamed up a wedding day that blended emotion, beauty, and playfulness—captured perfectly in a cinematic, vintage film style.

They began the day separately, getting ready in nearby Drumheller Airbnbs surrounded by their closest friends. Before the ceremony, the couple shared a quiet, emotional “first touch” at the Badlands Community Facility, holding hands and grounding themselves in the moment with a short prayer.

Their heartfelt ceremony took place just outside at Centennial Park, with Evan’s father officiating. It was personal and moving, set against the natural beauty of the Alberta Badlands—a truly unforgettable place to exchange vows.

Bride and groom holding hands during wedding ceremony
Featured Wedding: Evan & Jess’s Vintage-Inspired Wedding in the Drumheller Badlands
Featured Wedding: Evan & Jess’s Vintage-Inspired Wedding in the Drumheller Badlands

What Made This Wedding Special

There’s no shortage of epic wedding locations in Alberta, but Drumheller is a hidden gem. With its desert-like terrain, sculptural hoodoos, and expansive skies, it created a one-of-a-kind backdrop for Evan & Jess’s vision.

Their ceremony at Centennial Park, officiated by Evan’s dad, was heartfelt and intimate. Guests were treated to laughter, tears, and even some epic mid-photo snack breaks—yes, there are photos of sandwich-eating in full wedding attire.

Later at the Badlands Community Facility, a modern and scenic reception space in the heart of town, the celebration kicked into high gear. After emotional speeches and dinner by The Graze Company, Evan and Jess hit the dance floor—in inflatable dinosaur costumes. It was a moment of pure joy and a perfect reflection of their playful personalities.

Featured Wedding: Evan & Jess’s Vintage-Inspired Wedding in the Drumheller Badlands
Featured Wedding: Evan & Jess’s Vintage-Inspired Wedding in the Drumheller Badlands

About the Photographer: Connor Esau Photography

Based in Alberta, Connor Esau is a wedding photographer known for his vintage film aesthetic and storytelling approach. His work captures the emotional core of a wedding day—moments of stillness, connection, and joy—while embracing warm tones, cinematic light, and a creative eye for setting.

This wedding was Connor’s first time photographing in Drumheller, but as he shared: “After this, I’m wondering why more couples don’t get married here. The landscape is absolutely stunning—it made everything feel like a movie.”

To see more of his work, visit connoresau.com or follow him on Instagram.