A Fabulous Windsor Wedding | Red Deer Premier Photographer

Over the last 8 years, I have shot LOTS of weddings.  I have shot elegant weddings, professionally coordinated weddings, second and third marriage weddings, BBQ weddings, themed weddings and small intimate weddings, but what I had never shot up to this year was a destination wedding.

Now, most people, when you mention ‘destination’ wedding think of tropical locations…Hawaii, Dominican republic, Mexico, Cuba, etc.  The idea of exotic flowers and birds all around when you get off the plane many miles away from home and the beautiful ocean just a stones throw away from your hotel room.  This was not the case but I can tell you it was one of the most awesome times I have ever had as a photographer.

This particular destination was in the small Ontario area of Amhurstburg which is located right on the edge of Lake Erie (close enough for these purposes).  My dear friend Jennifer had invited me to come four provinces over to help celebrate her beautiful day with the love of her life, Patrick.  How could I say no????  The opportunity to share in her special day was more then amazing and I was so honored that it was me that was selected to not only capture her day, but to witness the creation of a brand new family with two people who love each other to the moon and back, but also have two little girls that have grown to be amazing step sisters with a bond that is unbreakable.

Jennifer and Pat’s wedding was hosted at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery in Amhurstburg, ON.  It was a beautiful building that has as much history as you can imagine and it sits right on the Northern Tip of Lake Erie.  As soon as I walked into the Estate building I knew it was going to be an amazing night – the windows, the light (because as a photographer I am always gauging the light), the space and the decor was just magical – and let’s not forget – THEY MAKE WINE (very tasty wine).

Jennifer and Pat’s wedding ceremony was just up from the beach overlooking Lake Erie.  The endless rain clouds finally drifted away, leaving the perfect light for an evening wedding and just enough sun to kiss the couple as they said their vows and we all gathered together afterwards for the formal pictures with the family and extended family.  It was such as beautiful ceremony – Jennifer glowed and embraced every second of the vows, Patrick couldn’t take his eyes off the bride and the two little girls were officially sisters and marked the event by signing their favorite song from Frozen together in front of the entire invited guest list looking on.  Jennifer and Pat presented both girls with a beautiful heart necklace each and spoke to both child individually, expressing what it meant to each adult to have them join the family.  The tears flowed.

The evening went ahead as planned with lots of delicious food, beverages and most important, love.  Our love birds spent the evening having the most fun possible with all of their friends and family.  There was a lot of dancing and everyone seemed to have an amazing time from my vantage point behind the camera.  My favorite moment however was when we broke out the sparklers at the end of the night and let the girls that were left at the wedding enjoy them with Jennifer while I snapped some perfect images.  There is something perfect and magical about sparklers and from young to old they always entice a smile and possibly even a little wonder.

I could go on for days describing the wedding day from getting ready to arriving at the location, to the ceremony to the dinner and finally the reception that left everyone smiling and so honored they were chosen to attend this intimate event.  From the bottom of my heart I thank the both of you for allowing me to come join you for such a special day and event.  Jennifer – like I said on the day of your wedding, you are no longer the girl I knew from University – you have become a women.  A women who is self assured, confident and in as much love as you have always deserve to be in.  You were one of the most beautiful brides that I have ever seen and I am so proud of the women you have become.  Pat – while we did not get to know each other very well during my short stay, what I do know is that you are well spoken, educated and treat Jen like a million dollars.  You are kind, you balance out her enthusiasm and busy mind and together you guys fit together like two puzzle pieces.  Seriously – Jen – on your wedding night the man came down and chatted for half an hour about cell phones with me while I stayed up and watched Med Men (all by myself I might add).  Pat you are a keeper and if I know Jen, she will keep you forever.

To your precious girls, thank you Devon for becoming a beautiful little girl that sparkles when she smiles and is never afraid to be herself.  It was so wonderful getting to know you again and I am so excited to see you grow into such a vibrant young women.  Your mom and Pat are very lucky you are who you are and I am honored to know you.  Ashley – after just meeting you this one time I can sincerely say that you are as lovely as Jen described you to be.  Your eyelashes are PERFECT and you are such a kind young lady.  I hope over the next few years we have another opportunity to meet and see you again.  You both are so lucky and your Mom and Dad know that every second of every day.

Thank you again and the very best of wishes to all four of you forever,
Suzie