Derek and Josie both got ready at their parents homes, surrounded by their wedding party and family, before heading to Newmarket Alliance Church for their ceremony. Less than two months prior, the three of us had gotten together for their sunset engagement session, which you can find here.

Now, getting your partner a gift on your wedding day isn’t something you have to do. Planning a wedding is hard enough, but if you do give your partner a surprise gift, I promise you will make them feel so special and loved. Derek got Josie two gifts, and within the card he had written, “One is for you, and one is for me.". This made me laugh and, honestly, tear up a little. As you can guess, the Xbox controller is for him, but really for her too, because it's a great way for them to spend time together.

Derek and Josie were very intentional about making sure God was at the centre of their wedding day. Not only were they getting married at the church they attend together, but they implemented prayer throughout their day and worship during their ceremony, led by Derek, after signing the papers but before sealing it with a kiss. The two didn’t share a first look but a first touch, which I find can really add to the excitement and anticipation of seeing each other at the altar. They prayed together, which, to Josie's surprise, moved Derek to tears. One of the easiest ways to ensure your wedding gallery has candid moments is to let those moments happen. Cry, laugh, hold hands with your mom, make those funny faces, try and forget about getting that perfect shot, and just enjoy your day. Trust that your photographer will get that perfect shot without you even knowing.

After their ceremony, everyone headed over to The Gibson Centre in Alliston, ON, for the reception. We had so many options for photos inside and outside the venue, so you best believe we took advantage of both!

To say I had fun with the bride-and-groom portraits would be an understatement. Derek and Josie are seriously my dream clients. They trust the vision, but they also love to add to it. Wedding photography really is an art, and having a vision as a photographer is amazing, but we photographers can't forget that wedding days are about the couple; therefore, their photos should really reflect them. So when my clients have ideas, vision boards, or pose ideas, I am here for it all; we are a team after all.

The night included the classic shoe game, a delicious buffet dinner, heartfelt speeches, and a live band for the dances. It was truly a beautiful day, and I am so honoured to have been able to capture it.