To love, in sickness and in health. I feel like that sentiment embodied the intimate backyard wedding of Kelsey and Alastair.
Just a week and a half prior to their wedding day, Kelsey emailed to say that her mom had been hospitalized and likely would not be a part of their wedding day. I knew it would be hard, but I pushed her to consider having photos taken there by going prior to the ceremony. After discussing it, they agreed. Sometimes a wedding day doesn’t always happen how we envision it, but sometimes that new plan is so much more important. I met Alastair at Kelsey’s aunt’s property in Niagara on the Lake and rode with him to pick up his bride. He waited outside her b&b where they shared a sweet First Look together. We drove together to the local hospital where her mom and dad waited. I gave them the space they needed and watched this incredible connection between Kelsey and her parents. Being an only child, Kelsey was close with them and there was an entire lifetime of love and memories before this day. Kelsey wore a bracelet of her mom’s so she would be with them in spirit and there was a plan in the works to Skype the entire ceremony to her.
After some tearful goodbyes, we head back to the property where the guests were gathering for the ceremony. I truly loved the intimacy of their day, how things were informal and casual. It added so much love and personal touches. Kelsey shared a quick moment with her dad before he lead her to Alastair who was waiting. Things were held together pretty well until a sniffle could be heard – a quick look to the iPad showed Kelsey’s mom crying. It was pretty much full out tears from everyone at that point! An exuberant first kiss as husband and wife and they were officially married!
An awesome folk band entertained the guests as they enjoyed a surprise oyster bar from the groom to his bride and some fun yard games. They shared their first dance as husband and wife before dinner and incredibly heartfelt speeches. They were even serenaded by Alastair’s parents as they sang an Irish love song to the newlyweds. It wasn’t long before the party kicked off and everyone was up on the dance floor.
It was a truly incredible day to be a part of. One that I will forever hold dear to my heart. I am so thankful to have been part of a day centred around the love of a family. Congratulations again Kelsey and Alastair!
vendors
coordinator Wedding Bliss
florals Lush Florals & Events
hair/makeup Honor Beauty
pies Itty Bitty Pie Company
catering/bartending Tide & Vine
band The Buds
officiant John | Lawrence Park Church
decor Joani Decor
rentals Party Connection
Intimate Backyard Wedding | Niagara Storytelling Weddings and Lifestyle Portraits | Darling Mine Photography | available for the Niagara region, GTA and all of Canada for weddings for romantic, adventurous couples | www.darlingmine.ca info@darlingmine.ca | for information on booking wedding coverage, see here
