Helen and Sam became husband and wife during a morning ceremony in glorious September weather at Brock House. The very night before their wedding day, Helen and I were on the phone making a serious plan B. The forecast was called for thunder from 11am to 7pm (so rare around these West Coast parts!) and of course, rain. However, September 21st started with clouds and only sun followed. A miracle. If I could photograph in weather like this (chilly in the shade, perfect in the sun) and light like this every weekend, I’d be a happy woman.

I loved how Helen chose to plan their wedding day. Their morning prep started bright and early at 5:30am – in order to finish hair and makeup by 9:30am arrival at Brock House for set up. We started prep images at 10am before the ceremony. Following the 11am ceremony, we had a few family photos before the lunch reception. The reception was small – under 70 guests – and there were lots of laughs and tears. Helen and Sam have beautiful families and their wedding day was genuinely a joy to be a part of. Following the reception, the bride and groom and bridal party rested their feet a bit before leaving for portraits. We photographed portraits for over an hour at two different locations before calling it a day! In the evening following their portrait session, Helen and Sam invited all of their friends to an “after-party” of sorts – celebrating at a restaurant in Yaletown. Isn’t that cool? Love the idea of a family reception and a friends reception.

A few more details I have to note – Helen’s dress was ahhhhmaaazing. I’ve photographed close to 125 weddings now (and including attending and assisting weddings? More like 150) and I like to make silly “Top 5” or “Top 10” lists. Helen’s Lillen Collection dress from Bisou Bridal was Top 5. Sam’s suit is from Brooks Brothers with shoes by Johnston & Murphy. The florals, don’t even get me started, some of the most stunning floral work ever. Combine Helen’s great taste and Amy of Garden Party Flowers incredible talent and you get a jaw-dropping Brock House ceremony set up. As well, Thank you to Sons of Granville for the beautiful background music during the ceremony and reception!