Alvina and Jonathan grew up in the same church. They “knew of” each other since elementary school but never had a friendship until 2008. Jonathan was put in charge of organizing a church youth camp and Alvina, being a church-camp-organizing-expert, was recommended as the go-to girl. After all planning conversations ceased and camp was long gone, these two kept up a “gmail chatting” relationship. In early 2009, Alvina realized she was interested in Jonathan and “worked up the nerve to let him know in June.” Jonathan remembers, “eventually Alvina told me she liked me (she doesn’t believe me but I had a hunch and being the risk averse person I am, I forced her to tell me first through my superior conversational skills) and we started dating.” 

It’s been 4 years since those early relationship days, and on June 29, 2013 Alvina and Jonathan became husband and wife at Coquitlam Alliance Church. Their tea ceremony and reception was held at Pinnacle at the Pier Hotel in North Vancouver (one of the best ballrooms around, honestly. Amazing colour palette.) Alvina and the girls’ hair and makeup was done by Brendan and Ya-Hsun Hopwood – the best “prep” couple around. ;) (Interesting fact: Brendan is a close family friend of Chanel & Sam – the last few photos of their engagement session were photographed in Brendan and Ya-Hsun’s apartment. Brendan also did hair for Olivia & Howard’s wedding.)

A few other things to love about their day – Alvina and Jonathan and their wedding party took 30 minutes in the park post-ceremony to hang out, eat sandwiches, sit down, relax, drink some juice, it was the best. Alvina’s bouquet – soft, understated, one of the most unique floral arrangements I’ve photographed. Their reception entrance – Jonathan is a basketball player and they announced everyone as if they were the “starting line-up” complete with high-fives. ;)

Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade
Bride’s Jewellery: Swarovski
Florist: Fleurtation Flowers
Event Designer & Rentals: Katsura Designs
DJ: Paradise Events