A few weeks ago, I photographed Holly and Darren’s elopement at Abigail’s Hotel. It was a rainy Sunday, so were stayed indoors for the ceremony and portraits. The honeymoon room there is gorgeous though, so I was happy to take some photos there. I loved Holly’s non-traditional dress and her dedication to getting her earrings on even though one of the holes had closed up. What’s a little blood when it comes to looking gorgeous for your wedding? Holly and Darren were all smiles, despite the rain, making for a sweet and fun day.

John and Barry came from Mississippi to get married at The Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria. Barry’s children and their kids came along to share in the celebration. It was a beautiful sunny day in a week full of rain and they got married in the gorgeous library with light streaming through the windows during the ceremony and dinner.  John plans big fancy weddings and I think even he was impressed by the dinner decor the Empress put out. The selection of food and drinks at the cocktail reception in their suite and at the dinner was also fantastic. I’ve never photographed a wedding larger than this one at The Empress, but I would really love to.

The best part of the day was seeing how emotional the grooms got during the ceremony, especially during their vows. I think Barry’s children teared up a bit too, despite the bathroom/water break in the middle of the ceremony (oh the joys of having young kids at a wedding). The young kids were so energetic after the ceremony, running around the hallways of the Empress and making everyone laugh. I was grateful that I brought Georgie along to second shoot and help manage the kids, because she did such a great job of photographing them.

Here are some of my favourite photos I took that day. I love how there’s so much life in them. I hope you had a wonderful visit to Victoria, John, Barry, and family. We were so happy to be a part of your wedding.

I was hoping to blog one more engagement session before this wedding, but I just couldn’t resist any longer. Alexandria and Jonathan travelled from the Northwest Territories for an intimate wedding with 18 of their closest family and friends. They had a ceremony and mini-reception at Abigail’s Hotel, which were both full of laughter and silly sweetness. Then we headed to the ocean and Fan Tan Alley for some portraits.

I love their classic movie star style and couldn’t resist editing many of the portraits in black and white. Short dresses are perfect for taking lots of portraits and for being able to move around, like Alex showing off her mad ballet skills. When you save money by having a smaller wedding, it’s a great excuse to buy some killer shoes – she chose Jimmy Choo’s (my first time even touching some). A custom cape, jewelled hair-piece, and birdcage veil topped off her vintage style. Jonathan also has that 40s movie star look: kind of a blend between Fred Astaire (my favourite) and Cary Grant. Add in Alex’s natural grace (and their resistance to cold weather) and you get some stunning winter portraits. It was such a great prelude to the spring season for me.

Venue: Abigail’s Hotel
Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Bride’s Dress: Maggie Sottero from Bridal Debut (Edmonton)
Groom’s Tux: Perry Ellis from Capital City Tuxedo
Cake: Cakes Etc.
Flowers: Petals Plus
Officiant: Joan Hoffman
Hair: Fish Hair Salon
Make-Up: Pearl Spa at Abigail’s