Clearwater County’s Secluded Log Cabin Wedding Venue
Nestled in the hills of rural Alberta, just outside Sundre, Diamond in the Rough lives up to its name. This hidden gem offers couples a secluded, high-end wedding experience with wide-open skies, golden sunsets, and a rustic log cabin stay for the wedding party. A favourite among Alberta wedding photographers for its lighting, space, and authentic country charm, this family-owned venue is perfect for couples dreaming of a cozy, nature-filled celebration.
Why Choose Diamond in the Rough for Your Wedding?
Located about an hour from Calgary in Clearwater County, Diamond in the Rough offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by open fields, scenic views, and plenty of fresh country air. What makes this venue especially unique is the stunning eight-bedroom log home on the property—a rare find that provides not only a beautiful backdrop for wedding photography but also overnight accommodations for your entire wedding party.
With its vintage log cabin aesthetic, sprawling outdoor ceremony options, and a large reception hall, this venue strikes a perfect balance between rustic charm and modern convenience. Couples can say their vows outdoors under Alberta’s big skies and head straight to the reception hall without worrying about long transitions.
This is the kind of place where guests can breathe, couples can slow down, and everyone can reconnect.
Guest Experience
Guests love the open spaces and scenic views at Diamond in the Rough. Whether they’re petting the on-site horses and donkeys or enjoying the comfort of the spacious reception hall, this venue offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
The property is easily accessible and offers ample room to explore or retreat, making it an ideal choice for events where guests may want to take a quiet moment or stretch their legs between events. The wide fields and peaceful setting also provide a calming backdrop that keeps the day feeling intimate and grounded.
A Photographer’s Perspective
From a photographer’s point of view, Diamond in the Rough is pure magic at golden hour. The venue’s open fields allow for uninterrupted sunsets that bathe couples in golden light, while the log cabin offers darker, moodier interiors perfect for cozy, romantic portraits.
Favourite spots include:
- The log cabin vintage couch—ideal for late-night indoor shots with character
- The fields at sunset, which offer some of the most breathtaking portraits
- The cabin’s rustic wood textures, perfect for intimate getting-ready moments
While the cabin can get dark (so flash may be helpful), the overall lighting and setting are beautifully dynamic. Even a surprise visit from a donkey can turn a simple golden hour session into something unforgettable.
One note: The venue does not currently offer an indoor ceremony space, but the reception hall could likely serve as a backup in case of rain.
Featured Wedding Stories
Meagan & Alex’s Autumn Wedding with a Horse-Drawn Carriage
Married on a crisp October day, Meagan and Alex’s wedding embraced fall colours and heartfelt moments. Meagan arrived in a horse-drawn carriage, and their dogs made a sweet cameo during morning portraits. Their emotional ceremony was led by Alex’s dad, and a surprise donkey visit during golden hour added a playful touch to their sunset portraits. The evening ended with intimate photos in the log cabin, creating a perfect blend of elegance and rustic charm.
Sasha & Mitch’s Joyful Wedding and Dance-Floor Finale
Sasha and Mitch’s celebration began with relaxed getting-ready moments before a short and sweet ceremony. Their day was filled with emotional highs and creative portrait sessions—including standout veil shots and a dreamy sunset session. The night wrapped with an epic dance party, and the energy on the floor was unforgettable. This wedding marked a turning point for me as a photographer—it was the day I truly found my style.
Final Thoughts
If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels like a retreat—where you can gather with your favourite people under Alberta’s open sky and celebrate without distractions—Diamond in the Rough delivers. With its blend of rustic elegance, warm hospitality, and jaw-dropping golden hour views, it’s a venue that doesn’t just host weddings—it holds space for unforgettable memories. Whether you're dancing under the stars or cozying up in the log cabin, this venue is the perfect place to begin your forever.
About the Photographer
Connor Esau
Connor Esau, a Calgary wedding photographer known for his romantic, story-driven approach. Connor specializes in capturing the in-between moments—the quiet, the joyful, the unexpected. Based in Alberta, he travels throughout Canada to photograph weddings that blend personal connection with timeless imagery.
Website: www.connoresau.ca
Instagram: @connoresauweddings
