Golf's Steak House Wedding | Light & Love Photography

Back in October I had the pleasure of photographing Missy and Kyle’s wedding. It was an interesting story, but the short version is that unforeseen circumstances left them without a photographer for the day. My hair and make-up artist friend Jacqueline (Jacqueline Phoenix HMUA) called me on a Saturday afternoon and asked me if I was free to shoot this wedding… today! Luckily I was off that day and after packing up my gear (I had just charged all my batteries the night before) and arranging babysitters for my kids, I was off to the wedding! Within half an hour of the phone call I was there, camera out, ready to help out this bride and groom in any way I could. Jacqueline was a life saver for them, I’m so glad she was there to help them out with this hiccup and that I was free!

This was a wedding where everything that could go wrong, did go wrong. However, through it all Missy and Kyle remained calm and just went with it. I was truly amazed and inspired by them. They wanted to celebrate their love and that is what mattered to them! It was also a good lesson, that no matter how much you plan and prepare, there might be things that do not go exactly as you want them. You’re day might have some bumps in it but as long as you remember that the day is about you marrying the love of your life, it can still be perfect!

Missy and the bridesmaids were finishing up getting ready when I arrived and the groomsmen were about to get dressed. They were getting ready all in one location so I was able to zip around the house capturing the final touches of the bride getting ready, some detail shots, and the groomsmen getting their suits on. It was a little hectic when I first arrived but things slowed down a little bit and everyone was able to relax and start enjoying the day!

It also rained! Have no fear brides, if it rains on your wedding day there are so many options. It’s actually considered good luck for it to rain so count it as a blessing. Since it was rainy we went to the CIGI building in Waterloo to take some pictures in front of this beautiful brick wall with the pretty teal shutters. It was a small space but we had a lot of variety with the added benefit of the overhanging roof to sheild us from the rain. The large mirror-like window walls was a great dramatic option, the brick was was perfect, and there was a little ally way with trees that added some green to the day. After we were done taking pictures we went to the Golf’s Steak House where the ceremony and reception were being held. When we arrived things had settled down and we were able to do family pictures and I got some detail shots of the reception before all the guests arrived.

The rest of the day went by so smoothly. The flower girl was adorable, the ceremony was beautiful, and the vows were personalized which meant some funny jokes and strong emotions. My favourite! This couple definitely deserved a smooth day after the chaotic morning and I was so happy to be there with them, watching their love! The weather gave us a little break and after the ceremony I was able to take them outside again. Behind Golf’s Steak House there is a patio with beautiful trees and then some stairs leading down to this little clearing right on the Grand River. You could see the bridge and lots of greenery in the background. It was the perfect spot for them to take a breath together and enjoy of moment of those first moments as husband and wife. This was my favourite part of the day. Being with just them, calm, intimate, with that perfect after-the-rain lighting!

We did eventually go back inside and enjoyed a great dinner, and some truly touching speeches. I was honoured when the father of the bride thanked me for coming on such short notice, it was very sweet of him! I love the speech portion of the night, especially at this wedding since I didn’t get the chance to get to know Missy and Kyle leading up to their wedding day, I got to know them the day of and it was wonderful! They have so many friends and family who love them and that is always amazing to see. The rest of the night was partying and this group knew how to party! I had such a blast breakin’ it down on the dance floor. So just a heads up to all my 2019 brides, you will see me bust multiple moves at your wedding!

After I was done for the night Missy changed into her pajamas so I know that we were meant to be friends! I loved that she had thought of that little detail and was ready to really let loose and enjoy the rest of her day as comfortably as possible.

New idea: a line of wedding gowns made out of flannel?! Pajama gowns, coming to a town near you!

Happy wedding day Missy and Kyle!