“Big but sentimental!” That’s how Erin and Jamie described the atmosphere they wanted for their wedding and I couldn’t agree more. With 200 guests, yes it was big, but it never felt big. There was a sense of warmth and closeness throughout the whole day and the mix of rustic details with the meaningful locations they chose added to a feeling that this wedding was very ‘them’. Erin and Jamie chose to get married in Wakefield Quebec which is where Erin’s family cottage has been for over 150 years. Her grandfather even helped build some of the buildings in Wakefield and helped with the rebuilding of the Wakefield Covered Bridge after it burned down. So it was no surprise that they chose to exchange vows in that exact spot, the Covered Bridge, and Erin’s grandfather even officiated the ceremony.
There was definitely no shortage of sentimental details: the girls got ready at Erin’s family cottage. We hung her dress by the tool shed that her grandfather built and where Erin spent so much time as a child by his side. The handkerchief that Erin wrapped around her bouquet was Jamie’s grandmother’s. Jamie wore a pocket square with an embroidered message from Erin. Erin’s friend and bridesmaid put together all the bouquets. And the guest favours were bottles of wine with a photo of the Covered Bridge on them. Any way that they could incorporate family, friends, or something unique to them they did – and this is what contributed to such a warm celebration.
The ceremony was one of the most unique settings I’ve ever witnessed. Erin and Jamie stood in the centre of the bridge with guests on either side. Erin’s grandfather had everyone laughing and crying at the same time and the ring bearers brought endless entertainment. After the ceremony Erin and Jamie snuck into the town of Wakefield to take photos by the church that Erin’s grandfather helped build. We strolled along the main street then they jumped in the sexiest Bentley to meet up with the wedding party at the bridge.
Their reception took place at Mont Cascades Golf Course which offered an incredible view of the sunset over the trees. The venue also offered the rustic and outdoor vibe that fit with Erin and Jamie’s style while also being covered from the elements. Things kicked off with one of the best emcee speeches I’ve ever heard – there was even a Hogwarts Sorting Hat that gave personalized predictions for the night, and it wasn’t far off! Everyone was in tears laughing through speeches while also being touched by sentimental memories. And once the party started everyone was in full swing, holding nothing back on that dance floor!
It was an incredible celebration that had me leaving at the end of the night feeling like I knew even more about Erin and Jamie than I did at the beginning. Their connection and love was an incredible thing to document and witness and I’m so lucky to have met them and their families. Erin and Jamie, thank you for allowing me to be part of such a memorable celebration and the start of an incredible marriage.
Erin had never opened a bottle of champagne before (I know! I was just as shocked as you!) Hence, the facial expressions on everyone around her!
The harpist was playing a rendition of Taylor Swift’s “Best Day” as Erin walked down the aisle with her parents – One of my fav songs by her!
We made sure to include photos in front of the church in Wakefield, Erin’s grandfather helped build it.
The incredible bouquets were all made by Erin’s friend and bridesmaid.
One of the first photos of Erin and Jamie together is of him dipping her, it’s a blurry dark photo but one that stands out in their relationship. We made sure to get a photo just like it and I even took a blurry version for them too.
The hilarious Sorting Hat! Erin is obsessed with Harry Potter so this was the perfect surprise by their emcee.
We had to sneak out to take advantage of that sunset!
So obsessed with Erin’s dress – it was so romantic, classic, unique, and simple all at the same time! It truly was one of a kind!
Erin embroidered a personal not to Jamie on his pocket square.
This is one of my favourite images I’ve ever taken! The backstory here is that Erin’s mom unfortunately had a very full glass of red wine spilled on the front of her dress and missed the first dance between Erin and Jamie. When she had come back they re-did the dance so she could witness it and the love in that moment was incredible.
The amazing vendors who put together such an incredible day:
Planner: Val and Jenny from Elle Seven Inc
Florist: Harmony Florals
Venue: Mont Cascades Golf Course
Hair: Showpony Hair
Makeup: Jenna Justinich Makeup Artist
Videographer: Peaking Zebra
Bride & Bridesmaid Dresses: Simply Beautiful Bridal Boutique
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Jimmy the Suit Guy
Cake: The Noble Dessert
Guest Favours: Corks Winery
Stationary: Vistaprint
Photography: Laura Clarke Photography