As I sit here trying to keep warm in a cozy sweater, thick socks and a big cuppa tea, it was with both happiness (and a little longing) that I write this post. Longing for this beautiful day to come back. A day when my morning Starbucks (that stayed in my car until 500pm) was still PIPING hot when I finally got around to it because of the sweltering heat. So hot, most of us sweat through our clothes and then some. So hot that I was a tad delerious the next day. It’s because I love what I do. I truly do. Weddings speak to me. It’s a happy day. It’s full of love. I really can’t think of a better way to celebrate such beauty. So, without further adieu, let’s get started, shall we! Meet Krista & James.
Ah…. the wait. The anticipation. Doesn’t Krista look absolutely beautiful? And isn’t Inn On The Twenty just stunning? Simply put, there were lots of amazing moments from their day. And it was right up my alley. Their day allowed me to tell a wonderful story; this being one of them. Their first look. I can’t stress how much I love when couples do this. It’s such a special private moment that they get to experience with no one else around. Well, other than me. And I can’t begin to tell you what this feels like as a photographer capturing such an amazing moment. My heart literally bursts each and every time I have the pleasure of doing this with a couple. It’s really quite something.
They were so insanely cute when they saw each other for the first time. So much giggling. So much love in their eyes. What more can you say *sigh*
Ah Krista, have I mentioned how gorgeous you are. Your hair and makeup complimented your dress and style beautifully. Everyone looked amazing, including your adorable nieces and nephew who played a big role in your day! They just melted my heart.
After a few more photos (we got all the family photos done ahead of time, which took A LOT of stress off from the day), we made our way to the gorgeous and serene Cave Spring Cellars for their heart felt ceremony. Krista & James decided to have their wedding in Jordan Station because they wanted a romantic and intimate setting for their closest friends and family (very close to Niagara-on-the-Lake, but much more intimate). I’m sure it wasn’t easy for this lovely couple to come up with a suitable location to marry as they were both living and working on the other side of the world before they arrived (quite literally … they were living and working in Kuala Lumpur shortly before the wedding and flew to Singapore the day to start new jobs). I guess technically, it’s a destination wedding! ;) Why Canada to be married you ask? Well, Krista is originally from Ontario and is a dear friend of my beautiful sister in law MaryEllen. Krista met James (who is originally from England and possesses the loveliest of accents) while living and working in Bahrain (serious globe trotters here) … and well, the rest is history!
I arrived a few minutes to catch a few details before Krista walked down the aisle with her father. The stage was set. Everyone was refreshed and dressed to the nines. And of course, we were all smiles and tears watching Krista proudly walk towards her future husband with pride in her eyes.
It was one of the nicest ceremonies I’ve seen. It was simple. It was heartfelt. And it was real. We forgot about the heat and just embraced the warmth of their love that was all around us. It was such a lovely service. One I’ll never forget. Especially the stories that were told.
And the best part of the day. The one I know they were both anxiously awaiting.
And now we can breathe! I don’t know about you. But for me, it’s not official until you seal the deal! ;)
After the ceremony, we stopped to take a quick photo of everyone who made it out the ceremony. Always a fun shot to take! Notice the gentleman in the back who knew he wouldn’t be seen (except for his champagne glass) lol! That’s the way to do it if you ask me! ;)
Because it was so hot out, I took Krista and James away for bridal portraits shortly after the ceremony so we could freshen up. I didn’t want them melting for their photos. Plus, I truly believe new brides and grooms need a bit of alone time to soak in what just occurred. Some couples can get incredibly shy in front of the camera if asked to kiss or show emotion. Krista & James, well … they had no problem at all. This was definitely one of my favourite photos taken from the day!
*swoon* It’s like no one was around….
Finally, we were alone! Once all the guests departed, we actually stayed back and took a few bridal portraits at Cave Springs. The light was lovely and golden delicious. Krista made this amazing “thank you” banner that she wanted to incorporate and I thought, there was no better place than right on the spot! Oh, and can I just say … James, you looked lovely!
Summer light, oh how I miss you! You can’t beat light like this. If I could bottle it up, I would.
We made our way back to Inn on the Twenty (which is where we started) for more bridal portraits while everyone enjoyed cocktails. We had a lot of fun exploring the main drag in Jordan Station. It was actually the perfect spot for Krista & James. We found this old barn and lots of historic buildings that made for the perfect stage for their bridal shots.
Ahh! So cute!! :)
I got Krista & James back for the tail end of their cocktails so I could photograph the venue. It was lovely. Their head table was about closeness and family. Their cupcakes were elegant and perfectly suited. I really felt like all of the details that they brought into their day truly reflected who they are as people. Maybe that’s why I felt so much at home. I really felt like I took a piece of them with me while I soaked in everyone’s heartfelt speeches and love for one another.
So … maybe the photo above needs an explanation. Krista wanted a girlfriend shot. But none of them were listening (a few bevvies of the alcoholic kind might have been a factor, lol). So, what do you do when there isn’t a lot of room and not a lot of time? You get them to JUMP hahah!! Love it!
I was informed earlier on in the day that it was also James’ birthday. Amazing. He chose his birthday to marry the love of his life. Definitely a cause for a celebration!So, this part of the night was really sweet! After all the speeches and dances, the night began, but not before one last toast. A toast to family. To unity. This really struck a chord with me. The idea of unity was present throughout their entire day. It really made for such a wonderful environment to be in.
Just love this shot of Krista dancing with her dad. It was the perfect way to end the night. And with that, my little snapshot of their day comes to an end. Krista & James, it was an absolute honour to photograph your special day. Thank you for trusting me with your everything. I really hope I did it justice. You both are forever in my heart! Robyn xo
Event venues: Inn on the Twenty & Cave Springs Cellars
Hair & MUA: Teresa Pupi
DJ: Patrick’s DJ Sound & Lighting