Grand Palladium Riviera Maya Wedding Photography

Ocean Weddings & Events Cancun · Wedding Photography

Generations Riviera Maya Resort · Wedding Photography

Krista & Dennis

Azul Beach Riviera Cancun Wedding Photography

Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Cozumel
Isla Mujeres

Krista & Dennis

Simply Elegant Wedding at Azul Beach Riviera Cancun

The day was beautiful, with mild humidity levels and clear skies, at a resort that was cute and quaint, perfect for a smaller, more low-key wedding. More often than not, resorts in the Mayan Riviera are sprawled out, requiring golf cart transportation from one location to another. But Azul Beach Riviera Cancun has a different vibe, with everything being within walking distance, and easily accessible. It seems rather fitting that the lovely bride of the day, Krista, was also very down-to-earth, eagerly doing her own hair and make-up, keeping the look simple, clean, and fresh. An early morning wake up and hours spent at the resort’s Spa & Beauty Salon were completely unnecessary, wherein Krista was more interested in the quiet and zen-like meditative motions of getting herself ready for her big day. Krista, a natural beauty, was exceptionally relaxed upon our arrival, motioning elegantly to important items of the day such as her bouquet, rings, and shoes. With the close proximity of most rooms on the resort grounds, other members of the family were able to flow in and out of the room with ease, which meant random visits from guests, and lovely intimate moments caught with Krista and her young niece. Referring to the events occurring as “getting ready” seemed almost arbitrary, with everyone seeming in their own wedding day groove. Even the gentlemen together in a separate space required minor adjustments to cuff links and the straightening of a tie, but otherwise were assembled and ready for the events of the day to proceed. Krista’s dress was modest in its simplicity, with a focus on a detailed lace back and form clinging curves. She looked lovely, and it was apparent that the genes ran evenly through her family, with a minor entourage including her two sisters as her bridesmaids, and her mother looking radiant and easily able to pass as an older, more fair-haired sister.

The details of the beach wedding décor was exquisite, the random blue and pink flowers mingling with mostly white roses was lovely. Having them displayed with pale rose-tinted ribbons, was the perfect touch to accentuate the green foliage in surrounding areas, and the intense turquoise hues of the Caribbean Sea. Guests were eagerly anticipating the arrival of the blushing bride, and with good reason! Krista looked simply elegant walking arm-in-arm with her father, before being handed over to her soon to be husband Dennis, who had attire that was smart and sharp to match. Lovely words were shared by those closest to them, with Dennis’ best man and brother, Daniel, having stories to share, and Krista’s bridesmaid and sister, Kyra, moving the crowd to tears. It was fairly evident as the ceremony played out that everyone was more than ecstatic to finally see these two tying the knot and saying I do. There was plenty to be excited about with these two recently purchasing a house and being involved in renovations, plus a destination wedding, they have had their hands full, and definitely deserving of reaping the rewards with all the time, energy and effort that was put forth to get them where they were that day. Their vows were endearing, the aquamarine of the ocean matched perfectly with the blue of Dennis’ dress shirt, and Krista’s dazzling sapphire teardrop earrings, and their first kiss was one that would make any passerby swoon.

When the stress of the ceremony was long since forgotten, the couple had time to relax, spend time with the nephews that they adore so much, and allow us to follow silently, documenting some of the more candid moments they shared just being themselves. Krista had already given us the warning that she was not the type to be in the spotlight of photos, which seems ludicrous to us given her natural beauty and photogenic qualities. But we always keep in mind those involved in weddings that are camera-shy, considering Matt himself is not the easiest to get in front of the lens rather than behind, and carry forth with that knowledge to ensure the photos don’t feel staged, don’t feel stiff, and most importantly, capture the true essence of the love shared between the newlyweds. Azul Beach Riviera Cancun has a lovely pier, which can be tricky to mount and dismount with waves lapping hungrily at the steps, but worth the effort. Clouds had rolled in by this time too, which increased the wind and increased the waves, but Krista and Dennis seemed more than happy to oblige, and we couldn’t be happier with the end results.

The sun rapidly setting meant only one thing, that it was time to rejoin the party, appease the guests with the entrance of the newlyweds and their subsequent explanation for what would get these two lovebirds kissing for their audience. Much to everyone’s chagrin, the request involved everyone at each respective table, standing at the DJ booth with microphone in hand, and belting out a tune, a cappella, about love. This more demanding request did not steer the guests away from the much sought after dinner table kisses, and provided everyone else with some added fun and entertainment. The passion between Krista and Dennis is one that many couples long for, and one that will not be fading any day soon. It’s uncanny how tender their love is, which our cameras were sure to embrace and latch on to. Every moment shared between these two was gentle, warm and gave you all the best kinds of chills. We are so happy that we had the opportunity to document this couple naturally in love with one another. There is no mistaking the emotion that exudes from them as they stare deeply into each other’s eyes, share a lingering smooch or simply embracing and indulging in the moment.

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Susan & Mike

Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun Wedding Photography

Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Cozumel
Isla Mujeres

Susan & Mike

Quirky Rainy Day Wedding at Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun

Despite some unexpected rainy weather dampening the mood (and yes, all puns intended), there was still no shortage of smiles and laughter when Mike and Susan were with their respective halves of their wedding party, getting ready for their big day, and their big “I dos”. Susan was calm and nonchalant, seemingly more preoccupied with fitting the beautiful bride role to a tee, than be overly concerned with something like the weather, which was so beyond anyone’s control, really. And, she most certainly was able to fit the Beautiful Bride title perfectly. And her entourage of bridesmaids were looking equally as ravishing! There was a wonderful speckling of people in the beauty salon, all intermittently getting their hair done, or make up applied, or simply partaking in the excitement of Susan’s upcoming ceremony. A decision was made to move the ceremony and reception to the rain-friendly venues that Now Sapphire has to offer. The staff were exceptionally accommodating, and were able to make the adjustments with less than 2 hours until the ceremony time. There was laughter shared thinking about how the dress rehearsal the previous day was essentially done in vain, considering the locations would now be completely different, and foreign to everyone. But again, that was just part of the unexpected fun of having a destination wedding mid-November in the Mayan Riviera. The wedding gifts for the groomsmen were exceptionally sleek and stylish, and the gents all seemed rather pleased with the result. It should come as no surprise, that while Susan and her bridesmaids were busy getting ready, that Mike and his crew put their final touches on their ensembles before enjoying some much deserved, and possibly much needed, beers and drinks. It wasn’t long before the finals details were addressed with Susan, the dress was on and she was ready to walk the aisle!

As for the ceremony, and the last minute relocating of guests and wedding party, it was spectacular nonetheless. The altar was a gorgeous covered platform, surrounded by white columns, and a moat of shallow water. The aisle was the only means of entrance to the altar, and the resort had supplied numerous complimentary umbrellas that were used to ensure everyone walking the aisle was away from Mother Nature’s slight misting from the remnants of the rain that had occurred earlier, during the preparations for the wedding. My first opportunity to finally meet Mike in person was this moment, at the ceremony, and seeing him standing at the altar eagerly anticipating his wife-to-be walking down towards him, was quite the heartwarming moment. It’s always an interesting moment for myself, first meeting the groom as he’s in the spotlight, and only catching each others’ eyes for mere seconds. A lot of unspoken dialogue takes place in those few precious seconds, and more often than not, as was the case with Mike, the warmth and excitement and love is exuding from their person, and it’s truly a magical moment. I have come to really appreciate and enjoy these unspoken dialogues, which the groom often is oblivious to even having with me. Susan looked radiant, as was expected, and the yellow floral bouquet she chose was the perfect accent to her outfit. Their flower girl, Leah, was particularly adorable, with a strong attachment to Mike, she nearly ran down the aisle, and completely forgot about the task of throwing rose petals while she walked. Needless to say, she made up for the faux-pas moments later, tossing the entirety of her basket in a few massive handfuls, in one spot. Everyone burst out in laughter with Leah’s resolution, ensuring her job for the wedding was still taken care of. The wedding party was a wild and vibrant bunch, and we had a blast walking the grounds at Now Sapphire and snapping photos of celebrations post-ceremony.

As always, there comes a time to branch off from the group, and sneak away for some more intimate moments shared with the newlyweds. The creatives session with the couple is the part of the wedding day we anticipate eagerly, that moment when the stresses have mostly melted away, and there’s finally a chance for the newlyweds to breathe. They can just relax, be chill, and enjoy some stress-free time spent with both photographers. It’s an opportunity to keep wandering about the resort grounds, finding interesting structures and locations to photograph the happy couple. We were fortunate enough that by this point in the day, the rain clouds had moved on, and we were simply left with overcast skies and the freedom to walk around outside at our leisure with no umbrellas needed. Mike and Susan are a blast to be around, always cracking jokes and trying not to take life too seriously. There was the perfect mix of sassy and sexy, and while being around this couple, it was nearly impossible to not be smiling along with them. Little did we even know of some of Mike’s future plans for the reception, which included a choreographed dance along a personally written rap, complete with his sister Lisa and father as background dancers. So, his charismatic personality was a force to be reckoned with, which made our lives that much easier. Having a photogenic couple is one thing, but having a photogenic couple that enjoys their photos being taken takes everything to a whole new level. The time with Mike and Susan seemed to fly by, and before we knew it, it was time to pack everything up, make our way to the cocktail hour and get things set up for their requested Photo Booth. It should be noted that Susan was exceptionally crafty and creative when it came to wedding preparations and accessories. She had sunglasses with their wedding date printed along the sides for all the guests to be able to wear, team Bride and team Groom sunglasses for the wedding party, and their own unique pairs which read Happily Ever After across the two arms, with the wedding dates too. She also took plenty of time constructing all of their own Photo Booth decorations, which everyone seemed to really enjoy playing around with, and she was exceptionally proud of how they turned out, and how well they managed to travel from Canada. Their guestbook was an interesting idea, deciding to use what appears to be a family tree, to have everyone leave an inked thumbprint with a signed name adjacent the print. The guests were more than happy to oblige, leaving everyone with minor hints of blue ink remnants on their thumbs.

Everyone was in great spirits by the time cocktail ended and instructions were given to take their seats in anticipation of dinner and speeches, and most importantly, the grand entrance of the wedding party. The meal was delicious, the guests were eager for the speeches to end and the party to begin, but that isn’t uncommon by the time the sun has set. Most guests have had a chance to have some down time between the ceremony and reception, and everyone starts to relax a bit more once the stresses of the vow exchange is over. It wasn’t long before Mike was surprising everyone with his choreographed rap routine, and the applause and cheers following where something you would expect at a concert, not from a destination wedding crew. The night flowed seamlessly from speeches, through to their first dance before breaking out the dance party tracks. The tables were cleared away so the dance floor could thrive, and everyone seemed more than content to refill their glasses and start givin’ ‘er on the dance floor. Again, the atmosphere was full of smiles and laughter. Guests grew eager wondering what awaited everyone with Mike’s reinterpretation of a sexy garter removal and toss, followed by Susan’s elegant bouquet toss to the crowd of single ladies. We stepped outside briefly to capture a few remaining requests for photos, including Susan’s sparkler shot, and the men with their cigars. Unfortunately, the winds were much too strong to properly execute the paper lantern send offs, for safety reasons related to the guests but more importantly to the surrounding foliage and environment. Which really just meant that everyone had the chance to head back inside for more drinks and more dancing, which seemed to cap off the wedding day perfectly.

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Shari & Catherine

BlueBay Grand Esmeralda Wedding Photography

Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Cozumel
Isla Mujeres

Shari & Catherine

Shari & Catherine’s Lipstick Lesbian Wedding at Bluebay Grand Esmeralda

Where to even begin with how the day unfolded with this spectacular wedding? When Shari first contacted us to photograph her marriage ceremony with Catherine, we couldn’t have been more excited. She put it out there right from the start, the forewarning that this was going to be a lipstick lesbianwedding, to ensure that it would be something we were comfortable photographing. And there we were, thinking what is there not to love about having double the dresses, double the bouquets, double the veils, double the beauty? We were ecstatic with the opportunity, and could not be happier with how the entire day flowed so smoothly, even with some unexpected storm clouds that rolled in during their creatives. We worked around it and still managed to get some really lovely shots of the newlyweds. Working in our favour were some sheltered areas at BlueBay Grand Esmeralda resort.

It was refreshing to have both Shari and Catherine getting ready in the same room. Theirs was an atypical wedding in that there was no wedding party. They wanted to keep it simple, with Catherine’s sister stepping in as a ring bearer, but that was it. Catherine’s sisters dressed in matching mint coloured dresses, and other such outfit coordinations. No wedding party also meant more room to freely move about the space, and more time to relax, allowing time to learn more about how these two lovely ladies met. Catherine is a French Canadian from Québec, Shari an Acadian from New Brunswick, but lo and behold, they met in Alberta through co-workers, and since 2010 have been the love of each others’ lives. It was a refreshing change, being able to casually converse about their everyday lives, and they both seemed completely stress free, although the chatting stopped when the dresses were put on and accessorized. Some traditions are still nice to follow, and ensuring neither saw the other completely ready was one of them. Matt followed Shari in a cart, to arrive at the ceremony first, followed closely by Catherine, her sisters, and I. Everyone was all smiles, eager with anticipation, and ready to say I do. There was laughter shared, and nerves discussed, and how it was a relief that it was all just finally here, it was finally the big day.

The guests were more than ready to see each of their gorgeous gowns, all done up for the occasion. As was previously arranged, Shari and her mother had a duet ready to perform while Catherine walked down the aisle with her parents. Shari’s voice soared over the crashing waves, reverberating ever so wonderfully with an outdoor location with no acoustics. Her hands glided across the strings with ease, and when she saw Catherine for the first time, it was impossible not to hear the smile in her voice. This was the moment! This was really happening, and you could tell Shari was ready. Their love for one another is hard to match. The constant stream of positive vibes that just radiate from both of these blushing brides is truly a delight to be around. Despite some struggles with the rings during the ceremony, which were placed incorrectly on each others’ fingers, and difficulty removing them, their marriage was sealed with a kiss. Hand in hand, they turned and walked down the aisle, to many cheers and applause from their guests, and surrounding guests at the resort. Champagne was popped and poured, and everyone was ready to hug, kiss and say their congratulations. Storm clouds were starting to roll in during the post-ceremony celebrations, so we snuck away with the newlyweds to photograph their creatives in creative areas of the resort so as to keep everyone dry in the process.

Catherine and Shari had previously requested photos of them both in their wedding dresses, as well as wardrobe changes to their work uniforms, so we took care to be near their room for the necessary wardrobe changes. Catherine has been a member of the RCMP for 5 years now, and Shari working for 6 1/2 years as a Military Policewoman. Needless to say, there was a lot of care and thought put into the coupling of outfits, and were pleased with the opportunity to both change into work attire, and each managing to get back into their dresses before their reception time, and subsequent cake cutting. While it intermittently poured outside, we all stayed dry indoors enjoying dinner and cake, though also discussing where exactly a first dance could take place. Initial plans called for a barefoot dance in the sand by the beach, but with the uncertainty of how long rain was going to stay at bay, we brainstormed and decided that the fountain near the restaurant, along the footpath, would be a lovely backdrop, with easy access to dry safety. Shari’s mother graced everyone again with her incredible musical skills on the guitar, although this time also being the one to sing, so her daughter, and daughter-in-law, could truly enjoy their moment together. They had their arms wrapped lovingly around one another, staring deeply and passionately into each others eyes. The rain managed to stay away for the dance, and the whole day couldn’t have been any more spectacular. These ladies were beautiful brides and a pleasure to photograph.

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Paula & Scott

Winnipeg Manitoba Wedding Photography

Paula & Scott

Eccentric & Unique Autumn Winnipeg Wedding at Kildonan Park

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Jennifer & Lee

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Wedding Photography

Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Cozumel
Isla Mujeres

Jennifer & Lee

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Wedding

The sun was hot, the humidity was high, and the festivities had only just begun Friday, August 15^th, 2014. There is no way to sugar coat just how hot it gets in the Yucatan Peninsula during the summer months, but even the heat won’t keep travelers away, and certainly does not mean that weddings aren’t still a common occurrence. This was true for Jennifer of the online book club BookShelfery and her fiancé Lee, plus their wedding group of 15 friends and family. And, although wiping your brow may have been a requirement, rather than a suggestion, it didn’t hinder their guests, who were all ready and willing to forego comfort and just have a grandiose time regardless. And, it seems the decor and ambiance of their resort, the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya had everyone feeling fairly laid-back and comfortable. Needless to say, everyone seemed rather content to be spending time relaxing poolside, or enjoying a stroll along the sandy beaches of the Mayan Riviera, instead of being stuck at home in the summer, working steady day jobs. Plus, there was the advantage of being indoors, getting ready in chilly air-conditioned resort rooms and the on-location Spa, which meant wearing the unique and personalized, multi-coloured robes was still a fun and pleasurable experience.

After a handful of hours of the royal treatment, complete with a few celebratory mimosas and endless laughter and giggles, Jennifer and her crew were eager to complete their news looks with jewellery and dresses. So, we eagerly packed up our belongings, and made our way to the Deluxe Platinum Sky Terrace room Jennifer was calling home for the week, in the Adults Only section of the resort, known as Heaven at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya. The view was spectacular, with a balcony overlooking the beach, complete with a hammock for relaxing when the urge strikes, plus a private third floor terrace complete with lounge chairs and a hydro spa tub. The ladies could barely contain their excitement, seeing all the bridesmaids’ dresses hanging on either side of Jennifer’s gorgeous gown. Dad stopped in for a quick visit, and to have his boutonnière pinned by his daughter before heading over to the men getting themselves together, and to not spoil his surprise for later, seeing his daughter fully dressed and ready to walk down the aisle with her father proudly by her side. With all the finishing touches in place, there was a nervous anticipation at what was going to take place in the hour to come. Everyone was hastily strapping on sandals, grabbing matching clutches with all the essentials, and heading out ready for the big moment.

Needless to say, Jennifer was stunning in her elegantly flowing dress, complete with veil that her mother, who was unable to be present in Playa del Carmen for the wedding, had carefully and delicately constructed for her by hand. With her mother there in spirit, and her father more than happy to wish his daughter the best of luck in this new chapter of her life, you could feel the love, joy and overall tenderness that seemed to have blanketed the scene. Misty-eyed bridesmaids, supportive groomsmen, and elated guests all clapped and cheered for the bride and groom! Jennifer and Lee kissed each other passionately, happy to finally say I do and call each other husband and wife. The wedding crew was small, quaint and just as pleased to see the two finally an officially married duo. Hugs and kisses spread through the group like wild fire, and while others went to relax a bit before the reception, we stole the newlyweds away for their time to shine in the spotlight solo. Jennifer had taken time prior to their travels to hand-make a Gracias sign that would be perfect for their thank you cards afterwards. We wandered the grounds at the resort, snapping photos here and there of the couple blissfully in love.

With reception outdoors in a palapa-covered hut on the beach, Jennifer and Lee wanted to take a moment to have a drink and relax on the couches in the lobby at the resort. First, to be able to kick back and say they did, but more importantly, to take advantage of some air-conditioned relief before heading back out to get the party started and welcome the congratulations of their guests. Miniature hot sauce bottles and a variety of coloured maracas were the special touches Jennifer had ready for those that attended. And once food was consumed and tables were cleared, it meant only one thing. Time to dance! Jennifer was excited to have some zany bridesmaids in her bridal party, and some staged shots were set up to accommodate some fun ideas she had from Pinterest which worked perfectly with the decor at the resort. All in all, everyone seemed overjoyed at the union of these two lovebirds and we had a great time being there to document it all.

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Candy & Francis

Grand Palladium Riviera Maya Honeymoon Photography

Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen
Tulum
Cozumel
Isla Mujeres

Candy & Francis

Honeymoon Session at the Royal Suites Yucatán by Palladium

Candy and Francis were an awesome pair of newlyweds who invited us to spend an evening photographing them enjoying their relaxing honeymoon in Playa del Carmen. It was Candy’s first time on a tropical vacation, and there were no complaints. Despite the intense heat and humidity that comes with summer in the Mayan Riviera, she was loving every minute away from life in Toronto. I can’t imagine a better way to relax and unwind after planning a wedding for the better part of a year, or more. Isn’t that the definition of honeymoon anyway? As it turns out, the Royal Suites Yucatan Resort by Palladium was a great spot too, with an adults only pool and beachfront. A pool adjacent to their section consists of ocean water that flows continuously, with an adorable foot bridge traversing from around the poolside to the rocks along the ocean front.

Having access to the entirety of the resort, Candy & Francis opted to go for a walk through a designated pathway, and head to the larger portion of the beach, stopping along the way to enjoy the serenity that some of the smaller, more romantic spots, had to offer. And the freestanding gazebo was nearly begging for some much deserved attention. So, Candy took Francis by the hand and led him her way to take a moment to dance to the music that wasn’t play, as if nobody was watching. They smiled, they giggled, she spun, and it was truly a sweet, tender moment we had the pleasure to photograph. While they continued to walk along the shore, frolicking slightly in the waves that gently lapped at their legs, we held back to capture some more candid shots of the couple so obviously in love, and so natural in front of the camera.

The time seemed to pass by at an accelerated pace, but that didn’t stop us from continuing to explore the remainder of the Grand Palladium resort beach lounging area, stumbling upon hidden treasures like the unused structure typically meant for wedding ceremonies on the beach, and we weren’t shy to use it to our liking. There was a whole section devoted to lounge beds, complete with netting, where pillows were being gathered by staff to bring inside for the night. We jumped at the opportunity to snag as many pillows as possible, and get a shot before being asked to move along. Neither Candy nor Francis had been much into hammocks, for fear of becoming a tangled mess and/or falling, so we took precautions to keep it simple with sitting on it as if it were a swing, rather than a bed. Needless to say, the evening was a blast, we had a lovely time with the newlyweds and couldn’t have asked for a more down-to-earth couple to spend time with during their honeymoon.

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Kara & Vince

Ottawa Anniversary Photography

Kara & Vince

1st Wedding Anniversary in Ottawa Ontario & Gatineau Quebec

It was wild to realize that a year had come and gone since Kara & Vince’s Mayan Riviera wedding near Playa Del Carmen, and anniversary photos were requested to be done before the holiday season was in full effect. We packed up our equipment and drove out to their home in Gatineau, Quebec to spend time with the couple in their home, as well as drive into Canada’s capital, Ottawa, in Ontario, to spend a crisp, sunny afternoon wandering around the Parliament. The grounds were icy, the temperatures were less than ideal, but we were determined to make it work. Charlie accompanied us, their loving Shiba Inu, and seemed to enjoy being the centre of attention. We were bundled up, and exploring the nooks and crannies of the surrounding area to come across benches, brick walls and find ourselves underneath bridges in interesting pathways.

Finally, the cold had gotten the best of us, with frozen toes and fingertips we could no longer feel, so it seemed as good a time as any to jump into the vehicle and change locations. Beforehand, though, we decided to grab some Starbucks coffee, warm ourselves from the inside out, and head back to Gatineau. We walked along the walkway, near the water, in Aylmer, Quebec, and relaxed in a quaint gazebo.

Kara couldn’t resist suggesting we all pay a visit to the infamous cake shop Gateau Néo. This is the same cake shop that Kara & Vince special ordered icing for their wedding cake, to transport to Mexico and use during their destination wedding. The choices were overwhelming, mostly because choosing only a half dozen cupcakes proved to be difficult. The owners of the shop were delighted to have photographers in the store, and more importantly, thrilled to see some of their regulars. After deciding on which cupcakes to purchase, we called it a wrap, and headed back to their home to enjoy the sweet treats that rewarded all our cold winter bravery.

Kara & Vince Hill’s 1st Anniversary in Ottawa Canada

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Montreal Quebec Wedding Photography

Moon & Andrew

Beautiful Chinese Wedding in the Heart of Downtown Montreal

The end of August brought with it a lovely day, with moderate temperatures and minimal harsh sunlight, which couldn’t have been better for outdoor wedding photos with the Moon, Andrew and their wedding party. The day started off at the beautiful St James United Church, which is spectacular, and a sight to be seen. Moon was exceptionally pleased with having been able to book the church for her wedding, and her excitement was not misleading. The ceremony was lovely, and despite Moon’s concern over low lighting in such an old church, the stained glass windows managed to let in a surprising amount of light, and the photos help exemplify just how grande the space was, and there was nothing but smiles and tears of happiness on each guests face. Group shots of all attendees were taken in front of the church doors, at Moon’s request, to ensure that the interior and exterior beauty of the church was captured, and the wedding party group shot was certainly one of the best.

Moon & Andrew Chinese Wedding in Montreal

After many congratulatory hugs and kisses, we were quickly ushered into wedding party vehicles to make our way to the Old Port, which is the cobblestone roadways of Old Montreal where heritage buildings are kept, and souvenir shops are plentiful. We followed the couple to get some shots in front of the LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana, as well as in front of the Notre Dame Basilica. There were plenty of tourists and locals milling about, many calling out congratulations and well wishes to the newlyweds. A busker was entertaining children nearby with his skills making exceptionally large bubbles that they could chase after and pop, and needless to say, some of the wedding party definitely got in on the fun. It was a cool and casual way to spend the hours between ceremony and reception, and really gave everyone an opportunity to let loose, get silly, and be carefree. We even managed to snap a number of photos mid-action of the groomsmen and Andrew jumping in a narrow alleyway, and they were compiled later on into a quirky animated gif.

The afternoon just flew by, and before we knew it, it was time to pack up, and head to Chinatown for the dinner reception, and subsequently dancing the night away. Moon, who works for Mega Bloks, was ecstatic that her company lent their over-sized Hello Kitty to have displayed at the entrance table to the banquet. There was excitement in the air, as everyone made their way into the dining room at Le Cristal Chinois. A traditional Chinese tea ceremony was performed at the Head table, while guests were making their way to their own respective pre-determined tables. The ceremony was short and sweet, but a joy to witness and photograph. As guests were settling in, with appetizers and drinks being offered, all were invited to line up and prepare for photographs to be taken with the Newlywed couple.

The evening progressed, and a traditional 10 course meal was served, one dish at a time. The food was great, the company was fantastic, everyone had a splendid time drinking and eating and celebrating the marriage of Andrew and Moon. There was a choreographed dance with the groomsmen, featuring Andrew, performed specifically for Moon, which moved her to tears and created a wonderful uproar from the guests. The couple made their rounds to each table, to make toasts and cheers everyone. And suddenly, the evening turned into night, the tables were rearranged, the lights were dimmed and colourful party lights were in full effect. Moon and Andrew were more than welcoming and ecstatic to have us stay and enjoy the rest of the night with everyone, as they had appreciated our overall upbeat and fun attitudes throughout the day. Needless to say, we had a blast, danced a bit, and continued to document with photographs. They were exceptionally appreciative of our dedication to our work, and some of the “party photos” as Moon referred to them as, were among her favourites. All in all, it was a splendid time, and we couldn’t be happier being a part of such a festive Chinese wedding.

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Connie & Paquito

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Connie & Paquito

Summer Wedding Session in Montreal’s Vieux-Port

Only days before our scheduled couple’s session with Connie and Paquito, we received an email mentioning that a horse-drawn carriage had been scheduled for an hour, to be able to tour around the narrow cobblestone streets of Old Montreal. Having never had the opportunity to photograph a couple whilst riding in a carriage was a challenge we were excited to accept. The beginning of the afternoon brought with it some gorgeous albeit slightly humid weather, a charismatic coachman for our carriage ride, and a sizable horse to lead it all. Space was limited, but somehow, all five of us managed to squeeze on board, with gear in hand too. He was exceptionally knowledgeable of the history of Montreal, and shared countless stories while touring us around, and patiently stopping a multitude of times so we could photograph the gorgeous couple enjoying some Old Port staples, such as the Basilica de Notre Dame and an alley known to locals as “La Ruelle Des Amoureux” which translates to Lovers Alleyway.

Since this was simply a couple’s shoot for Connie and Paquito, as their wedding is taking place a month from now in China, we decided to try to still keep things as cool as possible, trying not to draw too large a crowd of spectators. Our coachman was excited to receive the amount of attention from passer-bys who were congratulating the newlyweds the entire time, and when not retelling Montreal’s history, was just as excited to share stories of his newly born granddaughter. The hour passed quickly, and before we knew it, it was time to dismount, and saying our farewells. As Connie went to pet King, the horse, a final goodbye, he seemed far more intrigued by her bouquet than any of us would have anticipated. Turns out that oats may be a staple treat for good behaviour, roses and other assorted flowers were held in an even higher regard.

With the end of the carriage ride, we decided to stretch our legs a bit, and walk along the Old Port Montreal, by the Saint Lawrence river, over a foot bridge and over to grassier lands and less distractions. It was a nice change from the ever-present onlookers during the carriage ride, and one that seemed welcomed by everyone involved. Connie was content to be able to set aside her bouquet, and bring an important keepsake, her plush teddy bear, into the forefront. We took some time to simply relax, take it easy, and Connie and Paquito both seemed to welcome the opportunity to sit on soft grass and just breathe the fresh air, allowing time to sort of stand still, if only for a mere few minutes.

It wasn’t long after that Connie rose from the grass, and decided that she was ready for a change, wanting to take time to exchange the luscious white wedding dress for a more traditional Chinese red dress, Paquito exchanging his garments as well, and having a slight touch up by the friends at hand for both hair and make-up. Connie had expressed previously, that she wanted to take some time to walk along the boardwalk of the pier, and hopefully take some time closer to the Quai de l’Horloge. So, needless to say, we made our way over, and despite the urban beach being closed to the public, we were able to photograph the couple strolling between the trees, towards the Clock tower, and enjoying their time in their change of clothes and scenery.

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