I am so thrilled that I’m finally getting the opportunity to blog this amazing wedding. Kristel and Ivan are two amazing people – I knew it from the first day I met them. And their wedding has been on my mind. As some of you know, I recently moved over the weekend (actually, Kristel and Ivan are officially my neighbours now) and as such, life has been a little hectic. This blog post is SO overdue and of course, when I tried to publish it last week, I received several errors (never update WordPress when you have a lot of blogging to do). Anyway….. all of my WordPress issues have been resolved and to celebrate, I decided to make this blog post extra long. So, here we go – and the perfect way to start; with a love note.
Kristel & Ivan decided not to see each other before the ceremony – but since they were getting ready in the same hotel, we were able to get shots of the both of them getting ready. It’s essential for storytelling so I was very happy we were able to do this. I must say, isn’t Ivan handsome? In fact, all the groomsmen cleaned up quite well … and it was fun to see them relax and enjoy a toast to the groom before the ceremony. Even the ring bearer joined in (he drank ginger ale but was so excited to feel like one of the big boys).
Y’all know me and my details. The are a must have. And Kristel and Ivan spared no expense with all the little things that make my heart sing.
This was a really sweet part of the day. Kristel gave her flower girl one of the best gifts I’ve ever seen – a bridal Barbie outfitted with bling and everything. The little girl in me was squealing! ;)
And more water works as Kristel’s mother and mother-in-law arrived to see her for the first time. This is when I teared (for the first of many occasions throughout the day). The way Kristel’s mother in law looked at her in her wedding dress *sigh*. I could see how much she adored her. It’s every girl’s dream to have that kind of relationship with a mother or father in law who plays such an important role in their lives. It really touched me.
Now, onto the bride. Kristel, I have no words. Honestly, your beauty leaves me speechless.
A few more shots before we headed out. So what that we were a little late! ;) It’s moments like this that last for a lifetime.
We arrived to the beautiful Bronte Harbour in Oakville for Kristel and Ivan’s outdoor ceremony. It was under a gorgeous gazebo with perfect lighting set to classical music (that’s my friend Jessica Fournier playing violin, a nice surprise to see her perform at this sun drenched wedding). As Kristel walked down the aisle, everyone stopped in their tracks. It was quite a sight, especially for Ivan! ;)
So much emotion. It gets me every time. This is a family in love. Plain and simple.
Kristel and Ivan’s ceremony was heartfelt and elegant. They laughed. They cried. It really was absolutely perfect in every-possible-way.
I have a thing for eyes. Your eyes tell a story. The way they looked at each other; it was such an honour to witness.
The kiss. The moment we’ve all been waiting for. And so beautifully done. Well done you two! ;)
I also adore this shot. Serious love affair. It’s just so happy and joyful. I remember it so clearly. Rose petals were flying. They were elated. There is a reason why I capture weddings. It’s for moments like this!
After the ceremony was over, we did a few family portraits, including one big portrait of every guest in attendance. A big thank you to Alyssa for taking such an awesome photo!
And then the real fun began! Bridal portraits! :) My favourite part of the day!
Seriously…. they pulled this off so well haha and we had so much fun! Kristel & Ivan really wanted to channel a little Sex In The City, so I made them walk and talk. Oh, and laugh. Lots of laughter and sillyness. And yes, if you know me, I got them to fake laugh too. Works every time haha!! :)
Aren’t they just the cutest? I love that they did a toast right in the middle of the street like no one’s business. Hey, it’s their wedding day … I say go for it!
After the full bridal portraits were completed, Alyssa and I took Kristel and Ivan to Gairloch Gardens in Oakville for their formal bridal portraits. And more importantly, their alone time. Always a necessary part of a wedding day. It’s their chance to breathe. To bond. To regroup. And to bask in their day all to themselves. Well, with me. But I try to give my couples lots of time (even if I’m pointing my camera their way hehe).
One of my favourite images of the day. If this doesn’t scream summer to you, I don’t know what does. They were sun kissed and bathed in warmth. It was such a beautiful day and moment!
F-I-E-R-C-E! I just adored the colours they chose. It was perfect for summer (purple is also my favourite colour so I immediately loved Kristel’s bouquet and Ivan’s boutonniere). I also loved that Ivan and the “boys” wore grey. So classy!
We wanted to make sure Kristel and Ivan got back in time to enjoy cocktails with their guests. And they did. But they were still in the mood for photos, and hey…. I certainly didn’t mind! Otello’s is quite lovely and created such a beautiful backdrop for their reception, we just couldn’t resist doing a few more formal portraits.
And hello …. they nailed it. Again. The shots of Kristel and Ivan in the ivy … drool worthy! Have I mentioned lately how much I love what I do!? :)
After all the entrances were made (and some made quite the entrance heheh), we sat down to a lovely meal and lots of heartfelt speeches. They also cut their cake right before their first dance, which was incredibly sweet (no pun intended)!
Don’t all brides dream of this moment? I know I sure did.
After their first dance was over, everyone was invited on the dance floor to take part in a traditional Serbian folk dance called The Kolo. If I wasn’t photographing, I would have joined in. Yes. It’s true. It’s not a secret either. I love to dance and can’t help but shake my booty when I hear music. Plus, it’s my way of blending in to the crowd to take those much needed party shots! ;) Alyssa makes an appearance too! Can you pick her out heheh!!
And with that, they danced the night away to the beginning of their new life together. Kristel & Ivan, thank you for trusting me with your vision and love. It was an absolute honour getting to know you over the last year and capturing such an important day in your lives. I know this is not the end. In fact, it’s just the beginning (I know you’ll make beautiful babies together – but of course, don’t rush hehe!!) Enjoy being honeymooners! I’m sure I’ll see you around the block! Â With lots of love, Robyn xo
