Forty-eight hours ago, on June 27th, I was beginning my twelve-hour photography coverage of Grace and Kai’s wedding day. I had been scratching my head all week as to why I would decide to shoot an all-day wedding, drive home and then get on a plane only eight hours later to California for ten days. I thought I was crazy. However, when I arrived to Grace’s hotel room the morning of the wedding and was met by her huge smile and her calm demeanor I remembered… this was why. Grace and Kai are two of the sweetest, most loving, most generous, most selfless people I know.

Individually, they have the ability to change the atmosphere of a room: they bring a certain calmness. Together, they are a compassionate couple that I can confidently state will be showing God’s love and peace to all those they encounter for years to come. Friends for fifteen years, dating for ten: this day has been a long time coming. And now it has come and gone. Grace and Kai, you both make me feel so welcome and so loved in your presence. I’ve so enjoyed getting to know you over more than a couple of coffee meetings, our engagement session together, and spending your wedding day with you.

Thank you for how you selflessly think of others… constantly. From providing myself and my two assistants, Laura and Camille, tuna sandwiches and bottled water for lunch (so unexpected!), periodically asking if we need anything else, refusing to worry or stress about any aspect of the day, blessing us with a thank-you card at the end of the evening. It was your day, but you made it about those who supported you as a couple. What an example you two are! I wish you a lovely time in Victoria and an even lovelier time during your honeymoon to Hong Kong this Fall. Love, J.

Grace and her girls got ready in a great hotel room at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver. I loved how you can see downtown buildings in this dress shot.

I like this shot. I’m proud of it. :)

Grace had a great bouquet. I was lovin’ it.

This moment was so sweet. Grace was walked down the aisle to meet her soon-to-be husband by both her father and mother and she cried (sobbed) the whole way.

I believe the Father here was in the middle of an analogy including investment banking and marriage. Heh!

Our Lady of Sorrows Church, had this wonderful blue tile wall that I knew we needed to use!

She’s so beautiful and smiley!

Grace and Kai had a really fun bridal party: I love loud bridal parties that won’t stop talking! It’s so fun.

One of my favourites of the day.

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The reception was held at the Shiang Garden Restaurant; a beautiful venue with some beautiful details.

My second-shooter Laura Marchbanks caught this image: I adore it. I love how emotional Grace is: what is life without a few happy tears along the way?

Halfway through the evening Grace changed into a traditional Chinese dress to honour Kai’s Chinese background. She looked breathtaking and I loved her shoes!

Grace and Kai, the entire bridal party and the parents of the bride and groom went around individually to each table toasting and making a lot of noise. Hah! There was even a musical performance at one of the tables that involved chopsticks and their dinner plates.

This wedding reception was so fun. My assistants and I were cracking up with laughter the whole evening. Here’s Kai in the middle of one of their crazy games.

The happy couple after a traditional Filipino money dance. I think I’d like to start this tradition for Western receptions. I like the idea. ;)

To see more of Grace and Kai’s wedding day, CLICK HERE for a slideshow.

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