You might not know it from my current city life but I spent a number of years hanging out in Arnprior, I’m talking snowmobiling, boating and drinking in fields, that true county life. I hadn’t been back in over ten years so it was nostalgic to drive down those same old roads to photographed Holly and Johnny’s engagement and stunning wedding.
Their wedding took place in Holly’s parent’s backyard – and when I say backyard, I don’t mean your average backyard. I’m talking acres of land along Lake Madawaska with horse stables and incredible views! After growing up there, it’s no wonder Holly wanted to get married at a place that was so special.
Being set on a farm with their reception in a barn, it only made sense to centre their wedding around that country vibe – cowboy boots were encouraged, the groomsmen all wore jeans, and the girls arrived to the ceremony on a tractor. These two poured their hearts into this wedding to make sure each guest felt loved. As guests arrived to the ceremony they were greeted with a lemonade gin stand to cool off (and get the party started). Holly gave her parents a gift before the ceremony and for her dad she took a piece of her dress cut into the shape of a heart and had it sewn onto his tie. For the guest favours they hand-made horseshoes and they also made their cake topper, their initials made out of horseshoes!
Set along the water with the sun setting in the background, the ceremony was intimate, beautiful and sincere. They exchanged vows through laughs and tears and after the ceremony the wedding party hopped onto a pontoon boat to open some champagne and relax on the water. This group has got to be one of the most memorable groups I’ve ever photographed and I seriously wished I could’ve dropped all my camera gear and just jumped in pretending I was a bridesmaid.
After emotional and hilarious speeches the cowboy boots hit the dance floor and the party lasted into the wee hours of the night. Holly and Johnny, I’m beyond grateful to have met you and to have photographed the start of your marriage. Congratulations!
Johnny has a reputation of being late so Holly gave him this fitting gift.
Holly’s mom and maid of honour surprised Holly and Johnny with a song they wrote honouring their relationship.
The day wouldn’t have been complete without including Holly and Johnny’s horses!
Can we talk about these cupcakes by Beyond the Batter!?! It took everything in me not to ‘accidentally’ fall face first onto this table.
The amazing team who contributed to Holly and Johnny’s wonderful day:
Bridesmaid Dresses: With Love Bridal
Bride’s Dress: Renewed With Love Bridal
Makeup: Olivia Foulkes
Hair: Melissa Faye Hair Design
Invitations: Vista Print
Officiant: John Hyland
Florist: Mel’s Flowers
Cake/Desserts: Beyond the Batter
Caterer: Ullrich’s on Main
Band: The Ryan’s
Photographer: Laura Clarke Photography
