Weddings are a special day for couples, and photography is an essential aspect of capturing those memories. One popular location for wedding photography was Hernder Estates. Founded in 1984 by Walt Hernder, a passionate winemaker, Hernder Estates quickly became a wedding hot spot. With its stunning vineyards, gardens, and architecture, the Estates offered couples a rustic yet charming setting for their event.

As a wedding photographer, I had an abundance of natural light and stunning backdrops to work with - a perfect opportunity for creative shots. Couples could choose from several unique locations for their wedding ceremony, including the outdoor chapel, vineyard gazebo, and courtyard garden. The estate's main building - with its exposed brick walls and high ceilings - was one of my go-to spots for indoor wedding photos.

Unfortunately, Hernder Estates was burned down in October 2021 - everything from the main building to its surrounding structures was gone. The backdrops of countless weddings were gone in the blink of an eye. It’s a day I’ll never forget.

While the Hernder Estates may no longer exist as we once knew it, its memory will live on through the thousands of photos taken there. From the “I do”s to the first dance, couples can look back on their most cherished memories in a beautifully unique location. I’m grateful to have captured such wonderful moments in a truly magical place, and although it saddens me that I cannot photograph the Hernder Estates again, I know I can look back on the photos and smile. The Hernder Estates will always hold a special place in my heart as one of my favourite locations to shoot.