Melanie and Richard had their gorgeous wedding at Evergreen Brickworks and it was the epitome of summer goodness! This intimate gathering took place on a Monday afternoon at one of Toronto’s most iconic industrial venues, balanced out with gorgeous florals and tropical touches.

Classic details with greenhouse-inspired twists

Melanie and Richard met in Grade 11 Economics but only became friends the next year. In Grade 12 English, Mel gravitated towards Richard–one of the only familiar faces in the crowd–and asked to sit next to him. Chats during class and many group projects later, Richard and Melanie went on their first date to a quintessential Torontonian past-time: a Blue Jays baseball game. In the decade since, they could probably count on their hands the number of days they haven’t see each other.

Melanie and Richard’s wedding was full of classic details with greenhouse-inspired twists! A wrought-iron arch covered in neutral florals by Wildfell Florals, Tuscan-style wooden chairs, an open ceiling, and touches of peach gave this wedding a warm and summery feel while remaining fresh and sweet! The custom made wedding favours by Cupcake Junkie were designed after the couples’ adopted cats, Max and Nicky, and were the sweetest way to commemorate their little family!

Melanie and Richard, your wedding was so beautiful, and a joy to photograph! We were honoured to see how much love you guys have for your family, and they for you! And we’re so happy you got to celebrate on your anniversary…that made it an extra special day! We hope you love these images and that they remind you of the vows you made for decades to come! Congratulations!

Creative Team

Venue: Evergreen Brickworks

Florist: Wildfell Florals

Dress: Mikaella Bridal at Bliss Bridal Whitby

MUA: I’m Not a Beauty Guru

Cookie Favours: Cupcake Junkie

Harpist: Denise Fung Music

Rings: Tiffany and Co. 

Suit: Canali

Melanie and Richard had their gorgeous wedding at Evergreen Brickworks and it was the epitome of summer goodness! This intimate gathering took place on a Monday afternoon at one of Toronto’s most iconic industrial venues, balanced out with gorgeous florals and tropical touches.

Classic details with greenhouse-inspired twists

Melanie and Richard met in Grade 11 Economics but only became friends the next year. In Grade 12 English, Mel gravitated towards Richard–one of the only familiar faces in the crowd–and asked to sit next to him. Chats during class and many group projects later, Richard and Melanie went on their first date to a quintessential Torontonian past-time: a Blue Jays baseball game. In the decade since, they could probably count on their hands the number of days they haven’t see each other.

Melanie and Richard’s wedding was full of classic details with greenhouse-inspired twists! A wrought-iron arch covered in neutral florals by Wildfell Florals, Tuscan-style wooden chairs, an open ceiling, and touches of peach gave this wedding a warm and summery feel while remaining fresh and sweet! The custom made wedding favours by Cupcake Junkie were designed after the couples’ adopted cats, Max and Nicky, and were the sweetest way to commemorate their little family!

Melanie and Richard, your wedding was so beautiful, and a joy to photograph! We were honoured to see how much love you guys have for your family, and they for you! And we’re so happy you got to celebrate on your anniversary…that made it an extra special day! We hope you love these images and that they remind you of the vows you made for decades to come! Congratulations!

Creative Team

Venue: Evergreen Brickworks

Florist: Wildfell Florals

Dress: Mikaella Bridal at Bliss Bridal Whitby

MUA: I’m Not a Beauty Guru

Cookie Favours: Cupcake Junkie

Harpist: Denise Fung Music

Rings: Tiffany and Co. 

Suit: Canali

This Osgoode Hall wedding session is the third time we’ve photographed Becky and Joseph in less than two years, and we LOVE it! Their engagement session in 2019 went off without a hitch, but their wedding in August last year had to shrink and shorten in order to comply with all the regulations. They didn’t have any time for photos of their details or prep, and they had to forego a reception. Though they originally planned to have a reception this year, they decided to have an extended portrait session instead. The afternoon we spent with them was a blend of wedding portraits–with time for details!–and a one-year anniversary session! Congrats you guys!

It’s like they have their own little ecosystem.

Over the years, we have been so fortunate to work with some of the warmest and most genuine couples we know, and Becky and Joseph fit this to a tee! They are laid-back but detail-oriented. Just as comfortable tramping through a field in the cold as they are in a suit and heels for a date downtown. They’re the type of couple that arrives with four bags filled with gorgeous details and flowers, but also brings an avocado-shaped tent to change in. Becky laughs easily and Joseph is always there to smile at her giggles. In our post about their engagement session, we noted that it’s like they have own little ecosystem. Our kind of people!

Becky and Joseph, it has been absolutely amazing getting to know you guys! You guys make us so excited to see you and take photos of you, every single time! We love seeing you guys love each other and we’re so glad to be able to share these photos with you. We hope they remind you of the joy and sweetness this past chapter of life has brought, and encourage you in this new season of marriage! Congratulations again!

Creative Team

Hair: Emily Park Makeup & Tina Bridal Hair

MUA: Emily Park Makeup

Dress: Andrea Lee Bridal

Suit: Style Code Inc.

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Florist: Flowers by Liza & Secret Garden

Bridal Accessories: Sash and Bustle

This Osgoode Hall wedding session is the third time we’ve photographed Becky and Joseph in less than two years, and we LOVE it! Their engagement session in 2019 went off without a hitch, but their wedding in August last year had to shrink and shorten in order to comply with all the regulations. They didn’t have any time for photos of their details or prep, and they had to forego a reception. Though they originally planned to have a reception this year, they decided to have an extended portrait session instead. The afternoon we spent with them was a blend of wedding portraits–with time for details!–and a one-year anniversary session! Congrats you guys!

It’s like they have their own little ecosystem.

Over the years, we have been so fortunate to work with some of the warmest and most genuine couples we know, and Becky and Joseph fit this to a tee! They are laid-back but detail-oriented. Just as comfortable tramping through a field in the cold as they are in a suit and heels for a date downtown. They’re the type of couple that arrives with four bags filled with gorgeous details and flowers, but also brings an avocado-shaped tent to change in. Becky laughs easily and Joseph is always there to smile at her giggles. In our post about their engagement session, we noted that it’s like they have own little ecosystem. Our kind of people!

Becky and Joseph, it has been absolutely amazing getting to know you guys! You guys make us so excited to see you and take photos of you, every single time! We love seeing you guys love each other and we’re so glad to be able to share these photos with you. We hope they remind you of the joy and sweetness this past chapter of life has brought, and encourage you in this new season of marriage! Congratulations again!

Creative Team

Hair: Emily Park Makeup & Tina Bridal Hair

MUA: Emily Park Makeup

Dress: Andrea Lee Bridal

Suit: Style Code Inc.

Shoes: Vince Camuto

Florist: Flowers by Liza & Secret Garden

Bridal Accessories: Sash and Bustle

This past weekend, we celebrated Glory and Tony’s Harding Waterfront Estate wedding, and it was so incredible! Not only was this the most “normal” wedding we’ve had in almost a year, but Glory and Tony’s family and friends were the kindest and warmest people. Everything from prep to the speeches was rife with the markings of deep and intimate relationships. There was a moment during the speeches that I (Veronica) forgot I was a photographer and simply felt like a guest, able to witness and take part in this amazing day!

Glory and Tony’s wedding was rife with the markings of deep and intimate relationships

Glory and Tony were inspired by water and the colours of sunset (check out the photos at the bottom!). Their engagement session was on the beach and Harding Waterfront Estate is by the lake, so they decided on a sunset-like rose for the bridesmaid dresses and the groom’s bowtie and pocket square. Even their rings were rose gold! They let the warmth of the dusty pink tones and the gorgeous venue stand on their own, complimenting them with simpler decor in white, green, and natural wood. From a polaroid guestbook, to a magical sunset at the end of the day, Glory and Tony’s day was romantic, thoughtful, and full of personal and special moments that we had the privilege of documenting!

Glory and Tony, thank you so much for having us be a part of your day! We absolutely loved getting to know your friends and family and being able to join in your celebrations! You’ll notice we’ve included SO MANY photos in this post. We loved so many of them and couldn’t narrow it down! We hope you enjoy them and we can’t wait to share the rest soon!

Creative Team

Venue: Harding Waterfront Estate

Hair & MUA: Jeannie C Bridal

Florist: Flowers and Florist

Dress: Willowby by Watters

Catering: Pegasus Hospitality Group

Rings: Paul Balogh Jewellers

 

 

This past weekend, we celebrated Glory and Tony’s Harding Waterfront Estate wedding, and it was so incredible! Not only was this the most “normal” wedding we’ve had in almost a year, but Glory and Tony’s family and friends were the kindest and warmest people. Everything from prep to the speeches was rife with the markings of deep and intimate relationships. There was a moment during the speeches that I (Veronica) forgot I was a photographer and simply felt like a guest, able to witness and take part in this amazing day!

Glory and Tony’s wedding was rife with the markings of deep and intimate relationships

Glory and Tony were inspired by water and the colours of sunset (check out the photos at the bottom!). Their engagement session was on the beach and Harding Waterfront Estate is by the lake, so they decided on a sunset-like rose for the bridesmaid dresses and the groom’s bowtie and pocket square. Even their rings were rose gold! They let the warmth of the dusty pink tones and the gorgeous venue stand on their own, complimenting them with simpler decor in white, green, and natural wood. From a polaroid guestbook, to a magical sunset at the end of the day, Glory and Tony’s day was romantic, thoughtful, and full of personal and special moments that we had the privilege of documenting!

Glory and Tony, thank you so much for having us be a part of your day! We absolutely loved getting to know your friends and family and being able to join in your celebrations! You’ll notice we’ve included SO MANY photos in this post. We loved so many of them and couldn’t narrow it down! We hope you enjoy them and we can’t wait to share the rest soon!

Creative Team

Venue: Harding Waterfront Estate

Hair & MUA: Jeannie C Bridal

Florist: Flowers and Florist

Dress: Willowby by Watters

Catering: Pegasus Hospitality Group

Rings: Paul Balogh Jewellers

 

 

Steph and Chris’s Wilcox Lake engagement session was such a fun way to welcome summer! These two are one of the warmest and friendliest couples we’ve ever met and it seemed like we had known them for years! The entire session felt like a hangout with friends, and we can’t wait to do it all again at their wedding!

Steph and Chris met four years ago at a young adult group in Richmond Hill, where Chris had grown up going to church. Steph had begun attending the same church after university but they hadn’t crossed paths until they volunteered at a domestic violence shelter. They connected at a volunteer appreciation night at the church, quickly fell in love, and dated for the next three years.

Chris was waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect plan.

In May 2020, Chris proposed to Steph at Lake Wilcox. It had taken a year and a half to design and create the ring, Chris working closely with Engage Studio every step of the way. Once the ring was ready, Chris held on to it for a few months, waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect plan. At Wilcox Lake, Chris led Steph around the trails to a clearing set into the side of a hill overlooking the water. Steph had no idea what was happening until Chris took out the gorgeous round six-pronged diamond ring he had so lovingly and intentionally designed.

Almost a year later, they continued the tradition and had their engagement session at the same lake, making sure to take a portrait in the same clearing that Chris had proposed.

Steph and Chris, we had SO much fun with you guys! We left your engagement session not only with gorgeous photos, but with new and dear friends! We hope you love your photos and we can’t wait take so many more of you guys in just a few weeks!

 

 

Steph and Chris’s Wilcox Lake engagement session was such a fun way to welcome summer! These two are one of the warmest and friendliest couples we’ve ever met and it seemed like we had known them for years! The entire session felt like a hangout with friends, and we can’t wait to do it all again at their wedding!

Steph and Chris met four years ago at a young adult group in Richmond Hill, where Chris had grown up going to church. Steph had begun attending the same church after university but they hadn’t crossed paths until they volunteered at a domestic violence shelter. They connected at a volunteer appreciation night at the church, quickly fell in love, and dated for the next three years.

Chris was waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect plan.

In May 2020, Chris proposed to Steph at Lake Wilcox. It had taken a year and a half to design and create the ring, Chris working closely with Engage Studio every step of the way. Once the ring was ready, Chris held on to it for a few months, waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect plan. At Wilcox Lake, Chris led Steph around the trails to a clearing set into the side of a hill overlooking the water. Steph had no idea what was happening until Chris took out the gorgeous round six-pronged diamond ring he had so lovingly and intentionally designed.

Almost a year later, they continued the tradition and had their engagement session at the same lake, making sure to take a portrait in the same clearing that Chris had proposed.

Steph and Chris, we had SO much fun with you guys! We left your engagement session not only with gorgeous photos, but with new and dear friends! We hope you love your photos and we can’t wait take so many more of you guys in just a few weeks!

 

 

When you work with phenomenal vendor teams, events like this Back to the Cabin elopement are absolute dreams to photograph! This wedding was beautifully designed and executed, thanks to our couple and the team that rallied to get them married. Keep scrolling to get your fill of this lavender and leather elopement, packed with purple tones and the coolest custom details!

After months of changing plans, Sam and Colin eloped on a Wednesday afternoon with Samantha and Lexy (their planner who we’ve loved working with before!) as witnesses. However, what might have been missing in numbers was more than made up for in intentionality. With a first look and a private dinner, Sam and Colin were able to really take time for themselves. Their personal chef took good care of Sam and Colin, bringing out delicious and beautiful plates, explaining each dish as he poured them a glass of wine.

They made the day their own in the big and in the in-between moments.

The elopement took place at Back to the Cabin, a beautiful A-frame tucked away in the woods. The Scandinavian-inspired Airbnb is surrounded by calm creeks and ethereal waterfalls. Altogether, the environment fit beautifully into the fairytale feel of the day. A custom stationery suite commemorated their venue with a sketch and added whimsy to the details with ripped edges and romantic calligraphy. Also, an overflowing bouquet of pastel and ivory blooms and a coffee-flavoured cake decorated with textured florals hit the right balance between traditional and magical. We absolutely loved seeing how Sam and Colin’s personalities found space in their details and decisions. They made the day their own in the big and in the in-between moments.

Sam and Colin, thank you so much for inviting us into your special celebration! We loved being able to document your day and watching the deep friendship and love between you. We wish you all the best in this new and exciting season of life! Congratulations!

 

Creative Team

Planner: Lexy Marie Weddings

Venue: Back to the Cabin

Florist: Philia Flora

Stationary: Anelo Calligraphy

Hair & MUA: Allyssa Helm Beauty

Cake: Sweet Avenue Cakery

Music: Denise Fung Music

Officiant: Enduring Promises

Chef: Authentic Fusion Catering

When you work with phenomenal vendor teams, events like this Back to the Cabin elopement are absolute dreams to photograph! This wedding was beautifully designed and executed, thanks to our couple and the team that rallied to get them married. Keep scrolling to get your fill of this lavender and leather elopement, packed with purple tones and the coolest custom details!

After months of changing plans, Sam and Colin eloped on a Wednesday afternoon with Samantha and Lexy (their planner who we’ve loved working with before!) as witnesses. However, what might have been missing in numbers was more than made up for in intentionality. With a first look and a private dinner, Sam and Colin were able to really take time for themselves. Their personal chef took good care of Sam and Colin, bringing out delicious and beautiful plates, explaining each dish as he poured them a glass of wine.

They made the day their own in the big and in the in-between moments.

The elopement took place at Back to the Cabin, a beautiful A-frame tucked away in the woods. The Scandinavian-inspired Airbnb is surrounded by calm creeks and ethereal waterfalls. Altogether, the environment fit beautifully into the fairytale feel of the day. A custom stationery suite commemorated their venue with a sketch and added whimsy to the details with ripped edges and romantic calligraphy. Also, an overflowing bouquet of pastel and ivory blooms and a coffee-flavoured cake decorated with textured florals hit the right balance between traditional and magical. We absolutely loved seeing how Sam and Colin’s personalities found space in their details and decisions. They made the day their own in the big and in the in-between moments.

Sam and Colin, thank you so much for inviting us into your special celebration! We loved being able to document your day and watching the deep friendship and love between you. We wish you all the best in this new and exciting season of life! Congratulations!

 

Creative Team

Planner: Lexy Marie Weddings

Venue: Back to the Cabin

Florist: Philia Flora

Stationary: Anelo Calligraphy

Hair & MUA: Allyssa Helm Beauty

Cake: Sweet Avenue Cakery

Music: Denise Fung Music

Officiant: Enduring Promises

Chef: Authentic Fusion Catering

A couple weeks ago, we got to help Sally and Jeff celebrate at their Artscape Wychwood Barns wedding reception! We hadn’t seen them since their engagement session in the fall of 2019, so we were ready to take more beautiful photos of them!

Sally and Jeff were married last summer, when gatherings were limited to five people. Instead of postponing, Sally and Jeff decided to go ahead with their original wedding date with their fathers as witnesses. Their mothers watched and celebrated outside the room through a window. Although we couldn’t be there ourselves, we were so touched by their example of sacrifices and compromises for the sake of love. And we were so blessed to see Sally and Jeff’s joy and hope through it all!

This time around, Sally and Jeff decided to have a socially-distanced receiving line to celebrate with some of the people they couldn’t connect with last year! With Artscape Wychwood Barns as a backdrop, Sally and Jeff got to have mini get-togethers with friends and family and safely send them off filled with good memories and amazing food from The Food Dudes. With a high-low satin gown, a navy and champagne colour pallet, and a gorgeous ride (check it out below!), Sally and Jeff had the perfect classic summer celebration!

Sally and Jeff, thank you so much for including us in your wedding celebration! It was such a joy to watch you connect with your loved ones and relive the warmth and celebration of your wedding day. And we’re so glad to get to give you guys a pseudo-anniversary session! Congratulations!

Creative Team

Planner: Carmen Tan Events

Venue: Artscape Wychwood Barns

Stationary: Written by AJ

Hair: Crystal Elle Beauty

MUA: Zoe C Beauty

Dress: Blue Bridal Boutique

Catering: The Food Dudes

Rings: Theresa Duong Arts

A couple weeks ago, we got to help Sally and Jeff celebrate at their Artscape Wychwood Barns wedding reception! We hadn’t seen them since their engagement session in the fall of 2019, so we were ready to take more beautiful photos of them!

Sally and Jeff were married last summer, when gatherings were limited to five people. Instead of postponing, Sally and Jeff decided to go ahead with their original wedding date with their fathers as witnesses. Their mothers watched and celebrated outside the room through a window. Although we couldn’t be there ourselves, we were so touched by their example of sacrifices and compromises for the sake of love. And we were so blessed to see Sally and Jeff’s joy and hope through it all!

This time around, Sally and Jeff decided to have a socially-distanced receiving line to celebrate with some of the people they couldn’t connect with last year! With Artscape Wychwood Barns as a backdrop, Sally and Jeff got to have mini get-togethers with friends and family and safely send them off filled with good memories and amazing food from The Food Dudes. With a high-low satin gown, a navy and champagne colour pallet, and a gorgeous ride (check it out below!), Sally and Jeff had the perfect classic summer celebration!

Sally and Jeff, thank you so much for including us in your wedding celebration! It was such a joy to watch you connect with your loved ones and relive the warmth and celebration of your wedding day. And we’re so glad to get to give you guys a pseudo-anniversary session! Congratulations!

Creative Team

Planner: Carmen Tan Events

Venue: Artscape Wychwood Barns

Stationary: Written by AJ

Hair: Crystal Elle Beauty

MUA: Zoe C Beauty

Dress: Blue Bridal Boutique

Catering: The Food Dudes

Rings: Theresa Duong Arts

Cecilia and Josh’s Waterdown Farm wedding was a day filled with love, family, and lots and lots of warmth and sun! Cecilia and Josh’s engagement session last fall was beautiful but cloudy, so having a sunny day for their wedding made our photographer hearts incredibly happy!

This day was extra special because Cecilia officially became a vet on the same day as her wedding! Of course we had to start the day with some photos with her cat Pim! With his little bowtie, Pim was the cutest addition to the bridal party, and with the help of some bacon, he was pretty easy to entice for prep photos.

It was clear that Josh and Cecilia were so happy to be finally getting married! Having scheduled their day with lots of buffer time, they were able to soak in their day without distractions. Their intimate reception was fun and relaxed, with custom-labelled wine and family dogs lounging nearby. The dreamy sunset glow perfectly complimented the fresh and romantic summer details and we were even able to get gorgeous photos in the peony rows on the property! The day ended with a sparkler exit, closing the perfect summer celebration.

Cecilia and Josh, you guys were amazing!! From trusting us to beautifully capture your relationship to taking the time to just enjoy each other and your families, we couldn’t have imagined a better way to celebrate, and we can’t wait to see your love continue to grow through the years!

Creative Team

Venue: Marvin Gardens

Hair: Dolly Mixtures for Hair

MUA: Courtney Nevins

Florist: Garden House Florist

Dress: Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe & Paloma Blanca Bridal

Rentals: Guelph Tents

Cecilia and Josh’s Waterdown Farm wedding was a day filled with love, family, and lots and lots of warmth and sun! Cecilia and Josh’s engagement session last fall was beautiful but cloudy, so having a sunny day for their wedding made our photographer hearts incredibly happy!

This day was extra special because Cecilia officially became a vet on the same day as her wedding! Of course we had to start the day with some photos with her cat Pim! With his little bowtie, Pim was the cutest addition to the bridal party, and with the help of some bacon, he was pretty easy to entice for prep photos.

It was clear that Josh and Cecilia were so happy to be finally getting married! Having scheduled their day with lots of buffer time, they were able to soak in their day without distractions. Their intimate reception was fun and relaxed, with custom-labelled wine and family dogs lounging nearby. The dreamy sunset glow perfectly complimented the fresh and romantic summer details and we were even able to get gorgeous photos in the peony rows on the property! The day ended with a sparkler exit, closing the perfect summer celebration.

Cecilia and Josh, you guys were amazing!! From trusting us to beautifully capture your relationship to taking the time to just enjoy each other and your families, we couldn’t have imagined a better way to celebrate, and we can’t wait to see your love continue to grow through the years!

Creative Team

Venue: Marvin Gardens

Hair: Dolly Mixtures for Hair

MUA: Courtney Nevins

Florist: Garden House Florist

Dress: Heirlooms Bridal Shoppe & Paloma Blanca Bridal

Rentals: Guelph Tents

Glory and Tony’s beautiful Scarborough Bluffs engagement session was a long time coming. It was originally planned for October 2020, and we are so happy to finally get them in front of our camera!

Glory and Tony met in August of 2016, at a church volleyball game. They didn’t really have any overlapping mutual friends, so Tony knew he’d have to act before the end of summer. He asked her soon after their first meeting and they’ve been together ever since!

When Tony decided to propose, he wanted it to be meaningful to who they were as a couple. He decided to bring her to different spots around the city of Hamilton that were important to their relationship, ending up at a park by the water.

He led Glory down to an empty corner of the park, quiet and dark.

And there he asked her to be his wife.

When they arrived at the park, the entire space was filled and busy with people. Some friends had arrived early and set up their special corner with fairy lights and decor, but Tony wanted to wait until the area cleared. While waiting for the crowds to thin, Tony and Glory walked almost 20,000 steps. Tony had originally planned to propose at sunset, but by the time the park had started to clear, it was already dark.

Finally–finally!–Tony began leading Glory to the corner where the fairy lights glowed. As they got close, however, Tony realized that a party boat had parked nearby and was blasting music. He decided to press on, but as they got even closer, they into ran someone who was also playing music plus burning grass. The height of romance, truly.

It was dark out and Tony knew he couldn’t wait any longer. He led Glory down to another empty corner of the park, quiet and dark. And there he asked her to be his wife.

We loved celebrating this milestone at their Scarborough Bluffs engagement session, and we can’t wait for their upcoming wedding at Harding Waterfront Estates!

Glory and Tony, thank you so much for allowing us to capture your relationship! All the joy and laughter you guys brought with you to your session was so much fun! We’re so excited to see you guys laugh more together on your wedding day!

 

Glory and Tony’s beautiful Scarborough Bluffs engagement session was a long time coming. It was originally planned for October 2020, and we are so happy to finally get them in front of our camera!

Glory and Tony met in August of 2016, at a church volleyball game. They didn’t really have any overlapping mutual friends, so Tony knew he’d have to act before the end of summer. He asked her soon after their first meeting and they’ve been together ever since!

When Tony decided to propose, he wanted it to be meaningful to who they were as a couple. He decided to bring her to different spots around the city of Hamilton that were important to their relationship, ending up at a park by the water.

He led Glory down to an empty corner of the park, quiet and dark.

And there he asked her to be his wife.

When they arrived at the park, the entire space was filled and busy with people. Some friends had arrived early and set up their special corner with fairy lights and decor, but Tony wanted to wait until the area cleared. While waiting for the crowds to thin, Tony and Glory walked almost 20,000 steps. Tony had originally planned to propose at sunset, but by the time the park had started to clear, it was already dark.

Finally–finally!–Tony began leading Glory to the corner where the fairy lights glowed. As they got close, however, Tony realized that a party boat had parked nearby and was blasting music. He decided to press on, but as they got even closer, they into ran someone who was also playing music plus burning grass. The height of romance, truly.

It was dark out and Tony knew he couldn’t wait any longer. He led Glory down to another empty corner of the park, quiet and dark. And there he asked her to be his wife.

We loved celebrating this milestone at their Scarborough Bluffs engagement session, and we can’t wait for their upcoming wedding at Harding Waterfront Estates!

Glory and Tony, thank you so much for allowing us to capture your relationship! All the joy and laughter you guys brought with you to your session was so much fun! We’re so excited to see you guys laugh more together on your wedding day!

 

Today, Logan and I celebrate 3 years of marriage! In some ways it’s gone by so fast… in other ways, I can’t even remember what life was like beforehand. 

Marriage has been amazing. No more saying goodbye at the end of the day. A built-in travel buddy. Knowing someone is committed to the relationship for the rest of our lives.

Wedding Photos by Hannah Belvedere Photography

But even with very similar family backgrounds (does anyone else watch It’s a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve?), Logan and I realized we can be pretty different. 

I’m an ultra-planner, even on our days off work. I can be extreme with my habits, working out like crazy and then not working out for months on end. I get really excited about random small things (I still get excited every time we buy chocolate at the grocery store).

Logan, on the other hand, is the most balanced person I’ve ever met. He has gone on a run almost every second day for over a decade. Logan rests by not having plans. He enjoys running, and surfing, and having good conversations, but doesn’t get crazy excited about them.

So we’re different. We had done premarital counselling, so when we got married we knew we had the same deep values on faith, family, friends, and finances.

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How you apply your values can look very different

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But how you apply the same values can look very different! What does it mean to value family? How much time do you spend with each other’s families? How often? For how long? Does it count if you go visit and a family member isn’t there? Is going for a meal enough? Or do you want to spend a whole weekend with them every month? Even if you have the same expectations, what happens when you go through a busy season, or one of you can’t commit to once a month?

Once you’re having a good, solid conversation about something you disagree on, at what point do you say that having someone else’s thoughts might be valuable? Doesn’t that make the situation feel so much more serious? 

One of the best pieces of marriage advice Logan and I received I want to pass on to you.  Here it is:

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Don’t stop the counselling once you’re married.

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Having a few counselling sessions already booked in for after your wedding normalizes the fact that you’ll want to talk through how you live out your values as a married couple! 

This way, if you’re having a heated conversation, instead of having to escalate the problem by introducing the idea of sharing the problem with a counsellor, you can instead say “this is clearly very important to the both of us; maybe we can talk about it at our next counselling session and see how we can resolve it in a better way.” 

Then you make a short list of things that have come up and discuss it at your next session! We had 3-4 sessions within our first year of marriage, and they were incredibly helpful. With time, we’ve had fewer sessions, but now if we’re having a hard time working through a problem, it’s so much easier to say “let’s bring this up next time we have a session.” 

Before you’re married, you’re talking about your backgrounds and how you think about values, but you haven’t yet had the opportunity to see how each other lives out your values.

A Few Photos from our Sister’s Backyard Wedding

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Marriage Advice for Engaged Couples

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If you haven’t planned for premarital counselling sessions, maybe ask yourself “why not?” It’s such a great way to bring up conversations, values, and habits that may may otherwise not come up!

I can say having a clean kitchen table is important to me… but what does that mean? Do I need to spend 15 minutes cleaning it each day? Or can I have stacks of books indefinitely on it as long as the stack is nice and organized? 

This may seem like a silly example, but we’re so used to our own habits that we often don’t even realize how they play into our values!

It’s so much easier to build in a habit of creating a predetermined space and time to talk through harder issues without having to make a big deal of the fact that we disagree.

Marriage Advice for Engaged Couples

Today, Logan and I celebrate 3 years of marriage! In some ways it’s gone by so fast… in other ways, I can’t even remember what life was like beforehand. 

Marriage has been amazing. No more saying goodbye at the end of the day. A built-in travel buddy. Knowing someone is committed to the relationship for the rest of our lives.

Wedding Photos by Hannah Belvedere Photography

But even with very similar family backgrounds (does anyone else watch It’s a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve?), Logan and I realized we can be pretty different. 

I’m an ultra-planner, even on our days off work. I can be extreme with my habits, working out like crazy and then not working out for months on end. I get really excited about random small things (I still get excited every time we buy chocolate at the grocery store).

Logan, on the other hand, is the most balanced person I’ve ever met. He has gone on a run almost every second day for over a decade. Logan rests by not having plans. He enjoys running, and surfing, and having good conversations, but doesn’t get crazy excited about them.

So we’re different. We had done premarital counselling, so when we got married we knew we had the same deep values on faith, family, friends, and finances.

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How you apply your values can look very different

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But how you apply the same values can look very different! What does it mean to value family? How much time do you spend with each other’s families? How often? For how long? Does it count if you go visit and a family member isn’t there? Is going for a meal enough? Or do you want to spend a whole weekend with them every month? Even if you have the same expectations, what happens when you go through a busy season, or one of you can’t commit to once a month?

Once you’re having a good, solid conversation about something you disagree on, at what point do you say that having someone else’s thoughts might be valuable? Doesn’t that make the situation feel so much more serious? 

One of the best pieces of marriage advice Logan and I received I want to pass on to you.  Here it is:

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Don’t stop the counselling once you’re married.

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Having a few counselling sessions already booked in for after your wedding normalizes the fact that you’ll want to talk through how you live out your values as a married couple! 

This way, if you’re having a heated conversation, instead of having to escalate the problem by introducing the idea of sharing the problem with a counsellor, you can instead say “this is clearly very important to the both of us; maybe we can talk about it at our next counselling session and see how we can resolve it in a better way.” 

Then you make a short list of things that have come up and discuss it at your next session! We had 3-4 sessions within our first year of marriage, and they were incredibly helpful. With time, we’ve had fewer sessions, but now if we’re having a hard time working through a problem, it’s so much easier to say “let’s bring this up next time we have a session.” 

Before you’re married, you’re talking about your backgrounds and how you think about values, but you haven’t yet had the opportunity to see how each other lives out your values.

A Few Photos from our Sister’s Backyard Wedding

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Marriage Advice for Engaged Couples

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If you haven’t planned for premarital counselling sessions, maybe ask yourself “why not?” It’s such a great way to bring up conversations, values, and habits that may may otherwise not come up!

I can say having a clean kitchen table is important to me… but what does that mean? Do I need to spend 15 minutes cleaning it each day? Or can I have stacks of books indefinitely on it as long as the stack is nice and organized? 

This may seem like a silly example, but we’re so used to our own habits that we often don’t even realize how they play into our values!

It’s so much easier to build in a habit of creating a predetermined space and time to talk through harder issues without having to make a big deal of the fact that we disagree.

Marriage Advice for Engaged Couples

Ladies, picking what to wear to an engagement session is one of the most important decisions you’re going to make as you prepare for your photos! You want something that is both beautiful now, but will also stand the test of time. In twenty plus years, you want to be able to look back on these photos and still feel and look absolutely beautiful, relevant, and classic!

Though everyone’s style is different and unique (and we love seeing our couples’ personalities come out in their outfit choices!), we’ve learned a few tricks that will not only help guide your decision making but are also universally flattering and look amazing on camera! Here are some of our top tips of what to wear that will bring your engagement session outfit to the next level!

1. Something Full Length

Unfortunately, there aren’t too many occasions in life to wear a full-length gown, so we love it when our brides-to-be decide to do it! It’s elegant, flattering, and romantic. Full-length gowns have the power to make people stand up straighter, look taller, get right into that romantic mood!

Financial District // Naomi & John

2. Something Neutral

Neutrals are universally flattering and timeless, and they ensure that you are the star of the photos! Neutrals include black, white, grey, beige, navy, blush, and every shade in between. Plus, if you decide to go for cream or white, it will add a bridal touch that will look right at home on your wedding website or save the dates!

Novotel Hotel // Andrea & Michael

3. Something Flowy

Is there anything more romantic than a dress that flares out in a twirl and catches the sunlight? Not to mention, it’s probably the most comfortable thing to wear for a mid-summer session! It’s loose, cool, and looks insanely flattering as it helps accentuate your waist!

Toronto Islands // Jess & Wes

4. Something Taller

Heels. A girl’s worst enemy, but also her best friend. And no matter how comfortable or experienced you are wearing them, they are usually worth it for a couple hours during your engagement session. They have the power to make you look taller, your legs longer, your back straighter, and your outfit even more polished. 

Osgoode Hall // Marianne & Andrew

5. Something Professional

When you’re having professional photos taken, you want to look your absolute best! Most professional bridal hair and make-up artists have a ton of experience creating looks that look equally good in person and in photos. We highly recommend hiring a professional to do your hair and makeup for your engagement session. Plus it’s the perfect occasion to have your wedding trials!

R.C. Harris // Jenny & Derrick

6. Something Covered

Over our years capturing absolutely gorgeous dresses and outfits, we’ve learned about a magic ingredient: Sleeves. Cap sleeves, short sleeves, long sleeves, off-shoulder, etc…no matter the type, sleeves are easy to find and can even contribute to an outfit’s overall feel! They’re flattering, add style, and keep the focus on what we’re all here for: your faces! Sleeveless dresses tend to take extra work to ensure your outfit stays in place, so keep an eye out for a dress with sleeves you love!

Private Property // Sofia & Jérémie

Ladies, picking what to wear to an engagement session is one of the most important decisions you’re going to make as you prepare for your photos! You want something that is both beautiful now, but will also stand the test of time. In twenty plus years, you want to be able to look back on these photos and still feel and look absolutely beautiful, relevant, and classic!

Though everyone’s style is different and unique (and we love seeing our couples’ personalities come out in their outfit choices!), we’ve learned a few tricks that will not only help guide your decision making but are also universally flattering and look amazing on camera! Here are some of our top tips of what to wear that will bring your engagement session outfit to the next level!

1. Something Full Length

Unfortunately, there aren’t too many occasions in life to wear a full-length gown, so we love it when our brides-to-be decide to do it! It’s elegant, flattering, and romantic. Full-length gowns have the power to make people stand up straighter, look taller, get right into that romantic mood!

Financial District // Naomi & John

2. Something Neutral

Neutrals are universally flattering and timeless, and they ensure that you are the star of the photos! Neutrals include black, white, grey, beige, navy, blush, and every shade in between. Plus, if you decide to go for cream or white, it will add a bridal touch that will look right at home on your wedding website or save the dates!

Novotel Hotel // Andrea & Michael

3. Something Flowy

Is there anything more romantic than a dress that flares out in a twirl and catches the sunlight? Not to mention, it’s probably the most comfortable thing to wear for a mid-summer session! It’s loose, cool, and looks insanely flattering as it helps accentuate your waist!

Toronto Islands // Jess & Wes

4. Something Taller

Heels. A girl’s worst enemy, but also her best friend. And no matter how comfortable or experienced you are wearing them, they are usually worth it for a couple hours during your engagement session. They have the power to make you look taller, your legs longer, your back straighter, and your outfit even more polished. 

Osgoode Hall // Marianne & Andrew

5. Something Professional

When you’re having professional photos taken, you want to look your absolute best! Most professional bridal hair and make-up artists have a ton of experience creating looks that look equally good in person and in photos. We highly recommend hiring a professional to do your hair and makeup for your engagement session. Plus it’s the perfect occasion to have your wedding trials!

R.C. Harris // Jenny & Derrick

6. Something Covered

Over our years capturing absolutely gorgeous dresses and outfits, we’ve learned about a magic ingredient: Sleeves. Cap sleeves, short sleeves, long sleeves, off-shoulder, etc…no matter the type, sleeves are easy to find and can even contribute to an outfit’s overall feel! They’re flattering, add style, and keep the focus on what we’re all here for: your faces! Sleeveless dresses tend to take extra work to ensure your outfit stays in place, so keep an eye out for a dress with sleeves you love!

Private Property // Sofia & Jérémie