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

Finding the perfect spot among all the possible engagement session locations in Toronto can be overwhelming! There are so many incredible places in and around the city that are both beautiful and fun to visit! Your engagement location is probably the most important decision you will make for your upcoming session: where you choose to have your photos can determine the entire feel and mood your gallery will have! You want the space to be beautiful and romantic, and give you the most amazing photos ever! Toronto has so many buildings, views, and locations that would each tell a different version of your engagement story! We are here to help you choose a location that you love, are confident with, and are excited for!

Below you will find a list of some of our favourite places we’ve photographed in Toronto, and we would love to visit again! They all come highly recommended by us and our couples have all love them as well! We’re excited to help you find a location you adore now and for the years to come as you look back on your photos!

1. Osgoode Hall

Osgoode Hall is the perfect place to go if you can’t decide between romantic architecture and beautiful greenery. With creamy stonework, cobblestones, iron fencing and gates (that are landmarks themselves), and mature trees that protect you from the view of the city, Osgoode Hall will give your photos a classic elegance that will only add to your own romantic story as you retell it to your children and grandchildren. It’s a timeless backdrop that will accentuate your fairy-tale photos.

Fun Fact

Built in 1832 as a law school, it now houses the Great Library of the Law Society as well as a number of courts. The building shows its age beautifully and is a designated National Historic Site. Nestled deep downtown, it’s accessible but still offers a fresh view than what you’d expect in the city.

Osgoode Hall // Marianne & Andrew

2. R.C. Harris Treatment Plant

The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant may seem like an unconventional location, but its beautiful cream stone and view of the lake makes it the perfect place if you want a clean but industrial backdrop to your photos. A fairly unknown location, your photos here will be unique, epic, and will contribute to the rich history the plant has! The stonework is pristine, and when reflecting the light of the setting sun can transform into the pearlescent blush you see below! If Art Deco is your thing, this is the place to have your engagement photos!

Fun Fact

Opened in 1941, the R.C. Harris Plant replaced a school and an amusement park that had once stood on the land. Known as the Palace of Purification, the plant provides approximately 30% of Toronto’s drinking water. It was intended to be both functional and an architectural marvel and was fashioned in the Art Deco style. The cathedral-like structure boasts marble entrances, unique teal trim, and an unparalleled view of Lake Ontario.

R.C. Harris // Jenny & Derrick

3. Toronto Islands

The third recommendation we have for engagement session locations in Toronto are the Toronto Islands! The Toronto Islands are well known for the summer crowds that wave in on ferries to make the most of the beaches, parks, and yacht clubs. And lesser known are beautiful and often bypassed sites that offer some of the most beautiful backdrops we’ve photographed. The islands are great for unexpected and fresh garden-inspired photos. Water features, stone bridges (that look like they once graced the cover of a Nicholas Sparks novel), and an incomparable view of the CN Tower all contribute to how amazing this location is.

Toronto Islands // Jessica & Wesley

4. Novotel Hotel

Nestled in Toronto’s downtown core, you’ll find the Novotel Hotel’s outdoor corridor on the south side of The Esplanade. The Chateau-style hotel is on a quieter street but faces popular restaurants and is still within walking district to Toronto’s theatre district.

Novotel’s most beautiful facade is its northern corridor which is a popular route for pedestrians on their morning and evening commutes. The corridor is a stunning ode to old-world grandeur and luxury, despite having only been built in 1979. The grey stone columns and arches create a clean and classic backdrop for your session, while the cast iron lanterns ground the photos and add a touch of romance.

Novotel Hotel // Andrea & Michael

5. Financial District

The financial district is one of the most underrated locations for engagement photos. The perfect location for a modern couple, the financial district has some of the most recognizable streets and buildings having been used as a replacement for New York City in many films and TV shows. At almost every corner there’s a whole new scene, made up of granite, metal, and glass. Clean lines and neutral tones communicate luxury, maturity, and an urbanity unique to Toronto. Its high-end meets street sense in the best way. It’s just really really cool.

Financial District // Naomi & John

6. Yorkville

Our final recommendation for engagement session locations in Toronto is Yorkville. Yorkville may be only steps away from the high-end shopping of Bloor Street, but it offers a quaint small-town feel with its historic buildings and niche shops. Warm and romantic, it’s a great place for engagement photos or a date, Hallmark-style!

Fun Fact

Yorkville has a incredibly varied and fascinating history, having been a breeding ground for authors like Margaret Atwood and musicians such as Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, who memorialized Yorkville Avenue in her song “Night in the City”. Now known for its Mink Mile (the 7th most expensive shopping street in the world), Yorkville is a hub of history, culture, shopping, and good food. It embodies the word “bustling” even on a mid-week evening and there’s always something beautiful to look at!

Yorkville // Carrie & Steve

Stay Tuned for More Engagement Session Resources!

Finding the perfect spot among all the possible engagement session locations in Toronto can be overwhelming! There are so many incredible places in and around the city that are both beautiful and fun to visit! Your engagement location is probably the most important decision you will make for your upcoming session: where you choose to have your photos can determine the entire feel and mood your gallery will have! You want the space to be beautiful and romantic, and give you the most amazing photos ever! Toronto has so many buildings, views, and locations that would each tell a different version of your engagement story! We are here to help you choose a location that you love, are confident with, and are excited for!

Below you will find a list of some of our favourite places we’ve photographed in Toronto, and we would love to visit again! They all come highly recommended by us and our couples have all love them as well! We’re excited to help you find a location you adore now and for the years to come as you look back on your photos!

1. Osgoode Hall

Osgoode Hall is the perfect place to go if you can’t decide between romantic architecture and beautiful greenery. With creamy stonework, cobblestones, iron fencing and gates (that are landmarks themselves), and mature trees that protect you from the view of the city, Osgoode Hall will give your photos a classic elegance that will only add to your own romantic story as you retell it to your children and grandchildren. It’s a timeless backdrop that will accentuate your fairy-tale photos.

Fun Fact

Built in 1832 as a law school, it now houses the Great Library of the Law Society as well as a number of courts. The building shows its age beautifully and is a designated National Historic Site. Nestled deep downtown, it’s accessible but still offers a fresh view than what you’d expect in the city.

Osgoode Hall // Marianne & Andrew

2. R.C. Harris Treatment Plant

The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant may seem like an unconventional location, but its beautiful cream stone and view of the lake makes it the perfect place if you want a clean but industrial backdrop to your photos. A fairly unknown location, your photos here will be unique, epic, and will contribute to the rich history the plant has! The stonework is pristine, and when reflecting the light of the setting sun can transform into the pearlescent blush you see below! If Art Deco is your thing, this is the place to have your engagement photos!

Fun Fact

Opened in 1941, the R.C. Harris Plant replaced a school and an amusement park that had once stood on the land. Known as the Palace of Purification, the plant provides approximately 30% of Toronto’s drinking water. It was intended to be both functional and an architectural marvel and was fashioned in the Art Deco style. The cathedral-like structure boasts marble entrances, unique teal trim, and an unparalleled view of Lake Ontario.

R.C. Harris // Jenny & Derrick

3. Toronto Islands

The third recommendation we have for engagement session locations in Toronto are the Toronto Islands! The Toronto Islands are well known for the summer crowds that wave in on ferries to make the most of the beaches, parks, and yacht clubs. And lesser known are beautiful and often bypassed sites that offer some of the most beautiful backdrops we’ve photographed. The islands are great for unexpected and fresh garden-inspired photos. Water features, stone bridges (that look like they once graced the cover of a Nicholas Sparks novel), and an incomparable view of the CN Tower all contribute to how amazing this location is.

Toronto Islands // Jessica & Wesley

4. Novotel Hotel

Nestled in Toronto’s downtown core, you’ll find the Novotel Hotel’s outdoor corridor on the south side of The Esplanade. The Chateau-style hotel is on a quieter street but faces popular restaurants and is still within walking district to Toronto’s theatre district.

Novotel’s most beautiful facade is its northern corridor which is a popular route for pedestrians on their morning and evening commutes. The corridor is a stunning ode to old-world grandeur and luxury, despite having only been built in 1979. The grey stone columns and arches create a clean and classic backdrop for your session, while the cast iron lanterns ground the photos and add a touch of romance.

Novotel Hotel // Andrea & Michael

5. Financial District

The financial district is one of the most underrated locations for engagement photos. The perfect location for a modern couple, the financial district has some of the most recognizable streets and buildings having been used as a replacement for New York City in many films and TV shows. At almost every corner there’s a whole new scene, made up of granite, metal, and glass. Clean lines and neutral tones communicate luxury, maturity, and an urbanity unique to Toronto. Its high-end meets street sense in the best way. It’s just really really cool.

Financial District // Naomi & John

6. Yorkville

Our final recommendation for engagement session locations in Toronto is Yorkville. Yorkville may be only steps away from the high-end shopping of Bloor Street, but it offers a quaint small-town feel with its historic buildings and niche shops. Warm and romantic, it’s a great place for engagement photos or a date, Hallmark-style!

Fun Fact

Yorkville has a incredibly varied and fascinating history, having been a breeding ground for authors like Margaret Atwood and musicians such as Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, who memorialized Yorkville Avenue in her song “Night in the City”. Now known for its Mink Mile (the 7th most expensive shopping street in the world), Yorkville is a hub of history, culture, shopping, and good food. It embodies the word “bustling” even on a mid-week evening and there’s always something beautiful to look at!

Yorkville // Carrie & Steve

Stay Tuned for More Engagement Session Resources!

As in countless areas of life, engagements and proposals go through their own seasonal changes.  Many couples get engaged between Christmas and Valentine’s Day and are looking to have their engagement session done in the spring. Another busy season occurs in the fall when couples often choose to book their wedding photographers. A lot of photographers have different preferences for the best season in which to take your engagement photos, and we are no exception. Here are some of our best tips for scheduling your seasonal engagement session to get beautifully romantic, light-driven, and classic photos that will be relevant and fresh for decades to come.

Your Seasonal Engagement Session

Spring Sessions

We love spring sessions. Leaves are growing back, beautiful blooms have sprung up everywhere, and we have sun again. We are lovers of sunlight, and if you can choose a season that is sun-heavy, you will make us very happy photographers. We also love spring sessions because our busier season hasn’t started yet, and we can get your engagement session images finished in record time. The sunset time changes drastically within the spring months, so we recommend looking up the sunset time for a specific day and subtracting 2 hours for your start time! Depending on when greenery comes out again, think about locations that have both beautiful architecture with nature nearby, so that no matter how the weather turns out, you have a beautiful backdrop!

Summer Sessions

Sessions in the summer are our favourites. They do however require flexibility since our weekends are mostly booked. We recommend weeknights or sunrise (sunrise sessions are especially great for busy locations!). In the summer, the sun is rising early and setting late, so it may be easier to schedule around work hours. We love greenery, but you’ll notice that more often than not, we try to keep our couples off the grass! This helps us consistently achieve our clean, romantic style!

Fall Sessions

Because fall sessions are so popular, we want to give extra tips to make it work! Since the weather is more unpredictable and it is cloudier, be prepared for a heavier, windier look! We recommend finding open and airy locations since forests and ravines will make your images darker, and you’re more likely to have a lot of orange and yellow colours bouncing onto your faces instead of beautiful, clean, natural light! We know the temptation is to include the gorgeous fall colours in your photos, but this is a great season to choose an urban setting over a “nature-heavy” one.

If you’re set on having those fall colours, look for open, wide areas where the foliage is more of a backdrop than a surrounding statement. We also suggest not wearing fall colours! This might seem counterintuitive, but wearing neutrals, pastels, or jewel tones will help the fall colours stand out more and prevent you from looking washed out!

As in spring, the sunset time changes drastically within these few months. Look up the sunset for a specific day and subtract 2 hours for your start time! The weather can also be quite dynamic. This makes it a great season to find locations that have both beautiful buildings and architecture with a park or trees nearby so you have lots of options!

Winter Sessions

Winter snow sessions can be magical. Just prepare yourselves for the experience itself to be a little more adventurous than the photos make it appear. With wind, it can be extremely cold. We recommend bringing hand warmers and keeping them in your pockets during the session. A colour palette with muted or jewel tones (instead of bright, bold colours) will photograph beautifully against the snow.

This is probably the only season we might suggest staying away from statement dresses and heels. We recommend leaning into the winter look, adding in a classy hat and scarf. A form-fitting peacoat could also be a flattering alternative to a dress.  If your session is before mid-March and the time change, don’t forget that the sun sets quite early! We’d be looking at starting your session mid-afternoon. Unless there’s a lot of snow on the ground, we recommend staying away from “green” areas, since the greenery will be mostly brown. Instead, make the most of the waterfront or beautiful buildings that offer unique backdrops!

Your Seasonal Engagement Session

We are prepared for anything on your wedding day, but we’re especially light-driven on your engagement session. You’ll notice that some tips stay the same across each season, such as staying away from seasonally-colourful areas. Remember that these are suggestions to give you an experience where you can be confident of the end result. If you love the look of our images, you’ll love the result that comes from following these tips. The final decision is up to you. We’re here to make your experience memorable in the best sense: to capture your relationship and love for each other. No matter the location, weather, and light, you are the focus of the images, and we’re so grateful to be a part of this season.

Your engagement season–no matter how long it is–is short when compared to how long life is. We want you to make the most of it and soak up every second. In the midst of hectic wedding planning, your engagement session is a way to freeze time and remember why you’re getting married. To slow down for an evening, take time for each other, get dressed up, and go on a date afterwards!

As in countless areas of life, engagements and proposals go through their own seasonal changes.  Many couples get engaged between Christmas and Valentine’s Day and are looking to have their engagement session done in the spring. Another busy season occurs in the fall when couples often choose to book their wedding photographers. A lot of photographers have different preferences for the best season in which to take your engagement photos, and we are no exception. Here are some of our best tips for scheduling your seasonal engagement session to get beautifully romantic, light-driven, and classic photos that will be relevant and fresh for decades to come.

Your Seasonal Engagement Session

Spring Sessions

We love spring sessions. Leaves are growing back, beautiful blooms have sprung up everywhere, and we have sun again. We are lovers of sunlight, and if you can choose a season that is sun-heavy, you will make us very happy photographers. We also love spring sessions because our busier season hasn’t started yet, and we can get your engagement session images finished in record time. The sunset time changes drastically within the spring months, so we recommend looking up the sunset time for a specific day and subtracting 2 hours for your start time! Depending on when greenery comes out again, think about locations that have both beautiful architecture with nature nearby, so that no matter how the weather turns out, you have a beautiful backdrop!

Summer Sessions

Sessions in the summer are our favourites. They do however require flexibility since our weekends are mostly booked. We recommend weeknights or sunrise (sunrise sessions are especially great for busy locations!). In the summer, the sun is rising early and setting late, so it may be easier to schedule around work hours. We love greenery, but you’ll notice that more often than not, we try to keep our couples off the grass! This helps us consistently achieve our clean, romantic style!

Fall Sessions

Because fall sessions are so popular, we want to give extra tips to make it work! Since the weather is more unpredictable and it is cloudier, be prepared for a heavier, windier look! We recommend finding open and airy locations since forests and ravines will make your images darker, and you’re more likely to have a lot of orange and yellow colours bouncing onto your faces instead of beautiful, clean, natural light! We know the temptation is to include the gorgeous fall colours in your photos, but this is a great season to choose an urban setting over a “nature-heavy” one.

If you’re set on having those fall colours, look for open, wide areas where the foliage is more of a backdrop than a surrounding statement. We also suggest not wearing fall colours! This might seem counterintuitive, but wearing neutrals, pastels, or jewel tones will help the fall colours stand out more and prevent you from looking washed out!

As in spring, the sunset time changes drastically within these few months. Look up the sunset for a specific day and subtract 2 hours for your start time! The weather can also be quite dynamic. This makes it a great season to find locations that have both beautiful buildings and architecture with a park or trees nearby so you have lots of options!

Winter Sessions

Winter snow sessions can be magical. Just prepare yourselves for the experience itself to be a little more adventurous than the photos make it appear. With wind, it can be extremely cold. We recommend bringing hand warmers and keeping them in your pockets during the session. A colour palette with muted or jewel tones (instead of bright, bold colours) will photograph beautifully against the snow.

This is probably the only season we might suggest staying away from statement dresses and heels. We recommend leaning into the winter look, adding in a classy hat and scarf. A form-fitting peacoat could also be a flattering alternative to a dress.  If your session is before mid-March and the time change, don’t forget that the sun sets quite early! We’d be looking at starting your session mid-afternoon. Unless there’s a lot of snow on the ground, we recommend staying away from “green” areas, since the greenery will be mostly brown. Instead, make the most of the waterfront or beautiful buildings that offer unique backdrops!

Your Seasonal Engagement Session

We are prepared for anything on your wedding day, but we’re especially light-driven on your engagement session. You’ll notice that some tips stay the same across each season, such as staying away from seasonally-colourful areas. Remember that these are suggestions to give you an experience where you can be confident of the end result. If you love the look of our images, you’ll love the result that comes from following these tips. The final decision is up to you. We’re here to make your experience memorable in the best sense: to capture your relationship and love for each other. No matter the location, weather, and light, you are the focus of the images, and we’re so grateful to be a part of this season.

Your engagement season–no matter how long it is–is short when compared to how long life is. We want you to make the most of it and soak up every second. In the midst of hectic wedding planning, your engagement session is a way to freeze time and remember why you’re getting married. To slow down for an evening, take time for each other, get dressed up, and go on a date afterwards!

We’re so excited to share Andrea and Michael’s session with you guys! This Novotel and Cherry Beach engagement was our last session of 2020 and it was such a great way to end our season. It feels like just a couple of weeks ago that we shot our first engagement of the year, but it has already been 10 months!

We were able to make the most of the unusually warm November weather and headed downtown to get some photos of a couple deeply in love. We also loved being able to shoot at a more unfamiliar location and the colonnade on the hotel was an absolutely gorgeous feature!

Andrea and Michael’s story is one that may be familiar and relatable to many at this time. Having to be apart from the people you love is so difficult. Andrea and Michael met at Western University. They lived two doors down from each other and had many friends. Though they were friends at school, they only started dating after Michael graduated. Michael then moved to Hong Kong for his work in finance. When Andrea graduated, she joined him in Honk Kong to go to med school. Unfortunately, 6 months later, Michael’s work led him to Toronto and then to Calgary.

This was their reality for six years.

Distance is for those who have courage.

Long-distance relationships can be difficult. They are for those who have courage. Distance is for those who are willing to spend much time apart in order to have a little time together. For Andrea and Michael, this love and joy in each other’s presence is palpable. You see it when they look at each other, and you feel it in every laugh.

Michael proposed in Hong Kong on New Year’s Eve. It was, in a way, a New Year’s resolution to one day never have to be apart again.

Andrea and Michael, thank you so much for sharing your story and having us capture your relationship! The strength in your relationship is praise-worthy; six years is so long to be apart. We’re so excited that you guys will soon never have to say goodbye again. We can’t wait to celebrate with you guys next year!

We’re so excited to share Andrea and Michael’s session with you guys! This Novotel and Cherry Beach engagement was our last session of 2020 and it was such a great way to end our season. It feels like just a couple of weeks ago that we shot our first engagement of the year, but it has already been 10 months!

We were able to make the most of the unusually warm November weather and headed downtown to get some photos of a couple deeply in love. We also loved being able to shoot at a more unfamiliar location and the colonnade on the hotel was an absolutely gorgeous feature!

Andrea and Michael’s story is one that may be familiar and relatable to many at this time. Having to be apart from the people you love is so difficult. Andrea and Michael met at Western University. They lived two doors down from each other and had many friends. Though they were friends at school, they only started dating after Michael graduated. Michael then moved to Hong Kong for his work in finance. When Andrea graduated, she joined him in Honk Kong to go to med school. Unfortunately, 6 months later, Michael’s work led him to Toronto and then to Calgary.

This was their reality for six years.

Distance is for those who have courage.

Long-distance relationships can be difficult. They are for those who have courage. Distance is for those who are willing to spend much time apart in order to have a little time together. For Andrea and Michael, this love and joy in each other’s presence is palpable. You see it when they look at each other, and you feel it in every laugh.

Michael proposed in Hong Kong on New Year’s Eve. It was, in a way, a New Year’s resolution to one day never have to be apart again.

Andrea and Michael, thank you so much for sharing your story and having us capture your relationship! The strength in your relationship is praise-worthy; six years is so long to be apart. We’re so excited that you guys will soon never have to say goodbye again. We can’t wait to celebrate with you guys next year!

Cecilia and Josh’s beautiful Burlington Waterfront engagement session took place on its cream sand beaches, rocky outcrops, and modern pier. It was a new location for us, but we absolutely loved it! Its “hidden diamond” quality made it perfect for Cecilia and Josh, who are absolute gems themselves!

Cecilia and Josh’s passions and life callings really tug at our hearts. From our first meeting, we felt such a strong kinship with them. Their love for animals goes beyond simple appreciation into a lifelong calling and dedication to their wellbeing. Bonus: we got to meet their cat Pim at our first zoom call with them!

Josh and Cecilia met at the University of Guelph, where they both did their undergrad. They connected over their mutual love for animals and the natural world. Their passions bled into their relationship, and together they love hiking and being outside.

…a classic type of love, one that is steadfast and true…

COVID-19 shutdowns were in full effect when Josh began to shop around for an engagement ring. Jewelry stores were closed and Josh had to postpone his plans. He knew he could always order a ring online, but he wanted to see the ring in person, to hold it and know that Cecilia would love it. When the province started to slowly open up again, Josh was ready. On the Monday he bought the ring. On the Tuesday he asked Cecilia’s father for her hand in marriage. That weekend, as they were hiking along the Bruce Trail overlooking Georgian Bay, he asked Cecilia to marry him.

Cecilia and Josh, you guys are so sweet and genuine! The way you talk to and look at each other makes us think of a classic type of love, one that is steadfast and true throughout the decades. The kind you’ll still have in its full form when you’re old and grey and telling grandchildren your story. It was a true joy spending time getting to know you better and capturing your relationship! We can’t wait to do it again next year!

Burlington Waterfront engagement session

Cecilia and Josh’s beautiful Burlington Waterfront engagement session took place on its cream sand beaches, rocky outcrops, and modern pier. It was a new location for us, but we absolutely loved it! Its “hidden diamond” quality made it perfect for Cecilia and Josh, who are absolute gems themselves!

Cecilia and Josh’s passions and life callings really tug at our hearts. From our first meeting, we felt such a strong kinship with them. Their love for animals goes beyond simple appreciation into a lifelong calling and dedication to their wellbeing. Bonus: we got to meet their cat Pim at our first zoom call with them!

Josh and Cecilia met at the University of Guelph, where they both did their undergrad. They connected over their mutual love for animals and the natural world. Their passions bled into their relationship, and together they love hiking and being outside.

…a classic type of love, one that is steadfast and true…

COVID-19 shutdowns were in full effect when Josh began to shop around for an engagement ring. Jewelry stores were closed and Josh had to postpone his plans. He knew he could always order a ring online, but he wanted to see the ring in person, to hold it and know that Cecilia would love it. When the province started to slowly open up again, Josh was ready. On the Monday he bought the ring. On the Tuesday he asked Cecilia’s father for her hand in marriage. That weekend, as they were hiking along the Bruce Trail overlooking Georgian Bay, he asked Cecilia to marry him.

Cecilia and Josh, you guys are so sweet and genuine! The way you talk to and look at each other makes us think of a classic type of love, one that is steadfast and true throughout the decades. The kind you’ll still have in its full form when you’re old and grey and telling grandchildren your story. It was a true joy spending time getting to know you better and capturing your relationship! We can’t wait to do it again next year!

Burlington Waterfront engagement session

We absolutely loved Jess and Wes’ Toronto Islands Engagement Session!! But even before that day, we loved hearing the story of how they met.

Jessica and Wesley sat across from each other at a group lunch. Jessica was new at Wesley’s church, and Wesley wanted to make her feel at home. He introduced himself and said, “Tell me about yourself.” How was he to know she didn’t like open-ended questions? After that conversation, they didn’t really speak for three years.

Jessica and Wesley reconnected when they found themselves on the same softball league, but on opposing teams. They told us that their relationship was a low-key one and they seemed slightly unsure as to how Wes asked Jessica to be his girlfriend in the first place. From what we could gather, it went something like this:

“Do you want to be my girlfriend?”

“Okay.”

Their proposal was more eventful, but true to form. Wesley spent six months designing a beautiful custom ring and carried it with him for two months. It was around Christmastime that he found the perfect circumstance to pop the question.

When Jessica turned back around, he was gone.

Wesley took Jessica on a date to the Aurora Winter Festival, held at the CNE. Wesley had obtained the help of two friends to take photos of the proposal, and every few minutes, he would peak at his phone to know when they’d be in position. And then he got the text. Wesley led Jessica out into the skating rink and into place. There were people skating and milling about; lots of movement and joy. Wesley distracted Jessica for a moment and, as she looked away, he lowered to a kneel. When Jessica turned back around, he was gone.

It took a moment for her to realize where he was and what was happening. For that singular moment, no skaters passed by them. It was a sliver of peace in an otherwise crowded night. And in that moment, one of their friends captured THE photo. The one they’ll show their children and grandchildren whenever they tell the story.

Jessica and Wesley, we had such an amazing time getting to know you guys better at your engagement session. We’re so honoured that you let us in enough to see just how much you love and encourage one another. You make each other laugh so fully and you are very much at home in each other’s presence. We are so in love with your photos, and we hope you are too! Let them be a sweet reminder of your love for one another!

We absolutely loved Jess and Wes’ Toronto Islands Engagement Session!! But even before that day, we loved hearing the story of how they met.

Jessica and Wesley sat across from each other at a group lunch. Jessica was new at Wesley’s church, and Wesley wanted to make her feel at home. He introduced himself and said, “Tell me about yourself.” How was he to know she didn’t like open-ended questions? After that conversation, they didn’t really speak for three years.

Jessica and Wesley reconnected when they found themselves on the same softball league, but on opposing teams. They told us that their relationship was a low-key one and they seemed slightly unsure as to how Wes asked Jessica to be his girlfriend in the first place. From what we could gather, it went something like this:

“Do you want to be my girlfriend?”

“Okay.”

Their proposal was more eventful, but true to form. Wesley spent six months designing a beautiful custom ring and carried it with him for two months. It was around Christmastime that he found the perfect circumstance to pop the question.

When Jessica turned back around, he was gone.

Wesley took Jessica on a date to the Aurora Winter Festival, held at the CNE. Wesley had obtained the help of two friends to take photos of the proposal, and every few minutes, he would peak at his phone to know when they’d be in position. And then he got the text. Wesley led Jessica out into the skating rink and into place. There were people skating and milling about; lots of movement and joy. Wesley distracted Jessica for a moment and, as she looked away, he lowered to a kneel. When Jessica turned back around, he was gone.

It took a moment for her to realize where he was and what was happening. For that singular moment, no skaters passed by them. It was a sliver of peace in an otherwise crowded night. And in that moment, one of their friends captured THE photo. The one they’ll show their children and grandchildren whenever they tell the story.

Jessica and Wesley, we had such an amazing time getting to know you guys better at your engagement session. We’re so honoured that you let us in enough to see just how much you love and encourage one another. You make each other laugh so fully and you are very much at home in each other’s presence. We are so in love with your photos, and we hope you are too! Let them be a sweet reminder of your love for one another!

The very beginning of the East Don Parkland Engagement had its roots back when Florence was in her first year of university at Tyndale. For one of her classes, she needed to get the book “Foolishness to the Greeks”. Not the most romantic title or book, I’ll grant you, but it became the first step on her journey to the altar.

Lloyd was looking to sell some old school books he no longer needed. He posted them online and waited for a response. He had no idea he was waiting for a message from his future wife.

Lloyd and Florence connected online and decided to meet at a classroom for the trade. Florence took the book, and took a seat in the classroom, ready for class. And there was Lloyd, also taking a seat in the class. Not long after, they realized they were both in the same prayer group as well. They decided they should probably be friends.

He had no idea he was waiting for a message from his future wife.

Over the next two years, their friendship grew and something deeper developed. As the end of their degrees approached, Lloyd realized that Florence would most likely return to the UK. He knew he had to act.

Florence & Lloyd decided to have their engagement session on a small stretch of the East Don Parkland trail. It was a path that Florence had walked before and had loved. As we walked along the trail, we came across an off-shoot that led down to a break in the trees, where the ground turned to pebbles and sand. A beach paradise in the middle of the city. It was romantic and quiet, and it set the tone for a beautiful engagement session.

Florence and Lloyd, thank you so much for entrusting us with capturing this sweet and meaningful season of your relationship! We loved hearing your story and we’re excited to see how this time of engagement builds on the beautiful foundation you guys have set! We hope these images are a constant reminder of your love for one another in the years to come!

The very beginning of the East Don Parkland Engagement had its roots back when Florence was in her first year of university at Tyndale. For one of her classes, she needed to get the book “Foolishness to the Greeks”. Not the most romantic title or book, I’ll grant you, but it became the first step on her journey to the altar.

Lloyd was looking to sell some old school books he no longer needed. He posted them online and waited for a response. He had no idea he was waiting for a message from his future wife.

Lloyd and Florence connected online and decided to meet at a classroom for the trade. Florence took the book, and took a seat in the classroom, ready for class. And there was Lloyd, also taking a seat in the class. Not long after, they realized they were both in the same prayer group as well. They decided they should probably be friends.

He had no idea he was waiting for a message from his future wife.

Over the next two years, their friendship grew and something deeper developed. As the end of their degrees approached, Lloyd realized that Florence would most likely return to the UK. He knew he had to act.

Florence & Lloyd decided to have their engagement session on a small stretch of the East Don Parkland trail. It was a path that Florence had walked before and had loved. As we walked along the trail, we came across an off-shoot that led down to a break in the trees, where the ground turned to pebbles and sand. A beach paradise in the middle of the city. It was romantic and quiet, and it set the tone for a beautiful engagement session.

Florence and Lloyd, thank you so much for entrusting us with capturing this sweet and meaningful season of your relationship! We loved hearing your story and we’re excited to see how this time of engagement builds on the beautiful foundation you guys have set! We hope these images are a constant reminder of your love for one another in the years to come!

This Osgoode Hall summer engagement session is one for the books! Marianne and Andrew have one of those proposal stories that makes us so excited for their marriage. Not because it’s super adventurous, but because it showcases just how the most ordinary events can be extraordinary when they’re with the person we love.

It was an all-day date: it started in the morning with breakfast together and continued with spending the day hiking at Elora Gorge, alongside the banks of the Grand River. It ended with a dinner and a farewell at the steps to the front door. It’s one of those classic romantic scenes: the end of a date, saying goodnight at the porch. But this time, instead of a just a kiss, Andrew and Marianne to marry him. It was the culmination of seven years of dating.

The most ordinary events can be extraordinary when they’re with the person we love.

Marianne and Andrew chose Osgoode for their engagement session. In some situations, it can be difficult using your creativity to find new ways to shoot at a location that you’ve used numerous times before or recently, but we’ve discovered that if you follow the light, every session will be spectacularly unique and special. The right light has a way of turning a scene into a romantic story, and this was especially true for Marianne and Andrew’s session (as you’ll see below!). It also helps when your bride-to-be and her future husband look like they’ve stepped out of a fairy-tale!

Marianne and Andrew, we had so much fun with you at your Osgoode Hall summer engagement session! You guys are sweet, warm, and real. We could feel it at our meetings, in person, and through the camera lens! We’re so excited to spend more time with your guys virtually over the coming months and again in person at your wedding next year! We hope you love these photos as much as we loved taking them and that they serve as an encouragement in the next months and years!

This Osgoode Hall summer engagement session is one for the books! Marianne and Andrew have one of those proposal stories that makes us so excited for their marriage. Not because it’s super adventurous, but because it showcases just how the most ordinary events can be extraordinary when they’re with the person we love.

It was an all-day date: it started in the morning with breakfast together and continued with spending the day hiking at Elora Gorge, alongside the banks of the Grand River. It ended with a dinner and a farewell at the steps to the front door. It’s one of those classic romantic scenes: the end of a date, saying goodnight at the porch. But this time, instead of a just a kiss, Andrew and Marianne to marry him. It was the culmination of seven years of dating.

The most ordinary events can be extraordinary when they’re with the person we love.

Marianne and Andrew chose Osgoode for their engagement session. In some situations, it can be difficult using your creativity to find new ways to shoot at a location that you’ve used numerous times before or recently, but we’ve discovered that if you follow the light, every session will be spectacularly unique and special. The right light has a way of turning a scene into a romantic story, and this was especially true for Marianne and Andrew’s session (as you’ll see below!). It also helps when your bride-to-be and her future husband look like they’ve stepped out of a fairy-tale!

Marianne and Andrew, we had so much fun with you at your Osgoode Hall summer engagement session! You guys are sweet, warm, and real. We could feel it at our meetings, in person, and through the camera lens! We’re so excited to spend more time with your guys virtually over the coming months and again in person at your wedding next year! We hope you love these photos as much as we loved taking them and that they serve as an encouragement in the next months and years!

We’ve always loved a good Osgoode Hall engagement session. Samantha even had her wedding photos here! It’s one of those buildings that you can walk by and not notice at first since it’s surrounded by some of Toronto’s iconic landmarks. Osgoode Hall is partly hidden behind tall, wrought-iron fencing and probably the largest trees you’ll find downtown. But when you step onto the grounds, it’s like being transported to a different land. There are couples picnicking on the grass, students reading against a tree, and dog-owners strolling along the cobblestone walkway.

They fell into romantic movements and poses effortlessly as if that’s just what they do on any regular Sunday.

We loved that Danielle and Kevin chose Osgoode Hall for their engagement session. The location is a great mixture of romantic and elegant, but without being stuffy. And Danielle and Kevin seemed right at home on the grounds. They fell into romantic movements and poses effortlessly as if that’s just what they do on any regular Sunday. Danielle has an incredible smile when Kevin makes her laugh, and he has such a softness in his eyes when he looks at Danielle. Plus, they definitely have a silly side. Case in point, I may have caught Danielle out of the corner of my eye, making silly faces and shooting finger guns trying to make Kevin laugh. And very successfully!

Danielle and Kevin, thank you so much for entrusting us to document this special season of your life! We loved getting to know you guys better and seeing your relationship in action. We are so thankful for your trust and your enthusiasm! Being a COVID couple is difficult to navigate, but you guys make the compromise and sacrifice look easy. Being engaged is so amazing, but being married is even more so! We can’t wait to celebrate with you guys in a couple weeks!

Osgoode Hall Engagement Session

Want to see Danielle and Kevin’s wedding day? We blogged it here!

We’ve always loved a good Osgoode Hall engagement session. Samantha even had her wedding photos here! It’s one of those buildings that you can walk by and not notice at first since it’s surrounded by some of Toronto’s iconic landmarks. Osgoode Hall is partly hidden behind tall, wrought-iron fencing and probably the largest trees you’ll find downtown. But when you step onto the grounds, it’s like being transported to a different land. There are couples picnicking on the grass, students reading against a tree, and dog-owners strolling along the cobblestone walkway.

They fell into romantic movements and poses effortlessly as if that’s just what they do on any regular Sunday.

We loved that Danielle and Kevin chose Osgoode Hall for their engagement session. The location is a great mixture of romantic and elegant, but without being stuffy. And Danielle and Kevin seemed right at home on the grounds. They fell into romantic movements and poses effortlessly as if that’s just what they do on any regular Sunday. Danielle has an incredible smile when Kevin makes her laugh, and he has such a softness in his eyes when he looks at Danielle. Plus, they definitely have a silly side. Case in point, I may have caught Danielle out of the corner of my eye, making silly faces and shooting finger guns trying to make Kevin laugh. And very successfully!

Danielle and Kevin, thank you so much for entrusting us to document this special season of your life! We loved getting to know you guys better and seeing your relationship in action. We are so thankful for your trust and your enthusiasm! Being a COVID couple is difficult to navigate, but you guys make the compromise and sacrifice look easy. Being engaged is so amazing, but being married is even more so! We can’t wait to celebrate with you guys in a couple weeks!

Osgoode Hall Engagement Session

Want to see Danielle and Kevin’s wedding day? We blogged it here!

We’re back with another RC Harris engagement session! We love kind couples with sweet stories, and Jenny and Derrick fit the bill!

Jenny and Derrick first met at a cottage getaway, where friends hoped they’d connect. Derrick tried to talk to Jenny, but Jenny has no recollection of it. Over the weekend, they barely spoke and essentially ignored each other. 

The following spring, one of their friends decided to become a little more obvious and suggested Jenny and Derrick go out to dinner. They went out on a single date, but nothing came of it when they both got busy and lost touch. A few months later, over the summer, Derrick came to Jenny’s mind a couple of times and, soon after, they were magically matched on Coffee Meets Bagel. 

Derrick asked Jenny to marry him with a ring pop.

Earlier this year, Derrick decided to propose. Unfortunately, COVID temporarily shut down the jeweller from whom he had purchased the engagement ring. Instead of delaying the proposal, Derrick asked Jenny to marry him with a ring pop (and the promise of a real ring). 

Jenny and Derrick chose to have their engagement photos at the RC Harris Treatment Plant (where we also did Jen and Paul’s session this past winter). The warmth of the stone buildings and the calmness of the water suited Jenny and Derrick well. While many of their plans have been postponed, they both come across as hopeful and peaceful in their relationship. Their priority isn’t having the most lavish wedding, but spending time with each other (they compliment each other so very well) and with their families. 

Jenny and Derrick, you guys were not only a joy to photograph, but get to know as well! The short conversations we had walking between locations were definitely a highlight for us and we can’t wait to get to know you better! We love how you guys are facing the changes and compromises of this season of life together, as a team. We hope these photos from your RC Harris Engagement Session continually remind you of this beautiful season of life! Can’t wait to get you in front of our cameras again!

We’re back with another RC Harris engagement session! We love kind couples with sweet stories, and Jenny and Derrick fit the bill!

Jenny and Derrick first met at a cottage getaway, where friends hoped they’d connect. Derrick tried to talk to Jenny, but Jenny has no recollection of it. Over the weekend, they barely spoke and essentially ignored each other. 

The following spring, one of their friends decided to become a little more obvious and suggested Jenny and Derrick go out to dinner. They went out on a single date, but nothing came of it when they both got busy and lost touch. A few months later, over the summer, Derrick came to Jenny’s mind a couple of times and, soon after, they were magically matched on Coffee Meets Bagel. 

Derrick asked Jenny to marry him with a ring pop.

Earlier this year, Derrick decided to propose. Unfortunately, COVID temporarily shut down the jeweller from whom he had purchased the engagement ring. Instead of delaying the proposal, Derrick asked Jenny to marry him with a ring pop (and the promise of a real ring). 

Jenny and Derrick chose to have their engagement photos at the RC Harris Treatment Plant (where we also did Jen and Paul’s session this past winter). The warmth of the stone buildings and the calmness of the water suited Jenny and Derrick well. While many of their plans have been postponed, they both come across as hopeful and peaceful in their relationship. Their priority isn’t having the most lavish wedding, but spending time with each other (they compliment each other so very well) and with their families. 

Jenny and Derrick, you guys were not only a joy to photograph, but get to know as well! The short conversations we had walking between locations were definitely a highlight for us and we can’t wait to get to know you better! We love how you guys are facing the changes and compromises of this season of life together, as a team. We hope these photos from your RC Harris Engagement Session continually remind you of this beautiful season of life! Can’t wait to get you in front of our cameras again!