Heather & Allan had a beautiful fall Thanksgiving wedding at Allan’s family farm, in Canning, Nova Scotia. It was a very overcast, chilly day, and made for unpredictable conditions.  It was calling for rain, and a lot of it, set to start at 5:00pm.  Teddy and I remained hopeful that it would hold off until then, so that we could get the bridal portraits finished before heading to the party.

While the men hustled around getting the tent ready for later, sneaking in a little time to play a few games of pool. The girls were enjoying the pampering happening at the adorable Applewood Guest House; such a beautiful spot overlooking the valley’s North Mountain and apple orchards.  This gave me an idea; I asked Heather if she would be open to putting on her dress in the apple orchard behind the house.  She said YES, without hesitation, and my heart started to sing.  The apples were ready for harvest, which made them a very dark, rich red, and a beautiful backdrop for Heather’s bridesmaids to help her get into her gown. Teddy and I long for the couples that give us some creative control over their wedding day vision, it allows our minds to dream big ideas, and them put them into motion.

To make things even more special, we suggested a father-daughter first look outside in the orchard as well; it was very heartwarming to witness Robert (Heather’s dad) see her in her gown for the first time.  Fun fact of the day, it was also Heather’s mom and dad’s anniversary that day, which made the day extra special.  Allan was able to get his hands on an antique pick up truck and tractor, which added a vintage touch to the setting. My favourite detail of the day were the pheasant feathers in the bouquets and boutonnieres, Allan is an avid hunter and all of the feathers came from the pheasants he has hunted; so amazing!

The rain held off right up until the last set of our bridal party portraits, but everyone was so wonderful, and toughed it out to get the shots.  Heather and Allan even let us take them to a special spot, very dear to me.  As a child, I would visit my loving grandparents every weekend and holiday, and be vibrating with excitement the entire drive. It was a long drive as a young blood (an hour is forever), but I always knew I was close when I saw these glorious Salix Babylonica (Weeping Willows). I also knew one day that these trees would play a very special role in what I was destined to do in my life; seeing this image has affirmed that. Heather & Allan, thank you so much for being open to this idea, and for sharing my special place with me. You weathered the rain and allowing me to take the creative reins; I will forever be grateful.

We must mention the wonderful talents, and details involved in this celebration:

Bridal gown: Maggie Sottero, from Chester and Felicity
Shoes: Call It Spring
Bridal party attire: Mori Lee, Affairs line, from Chester and Felicity
Groom’s tux: Coppley, Freeman’s Formal Wear, TipTop Tailors
Cake: “Just a Couple of Chicks“
Caterer: Certainly Cinnamon
Wine: Phone Box Red – Luckett’s Vineyard &  Tidal Bay – Grand Pre Winery
Favours: Homemade Strawberry Jam – made by Bride and Groom
Music: Band – Shaker
Hair: Mishelle Melvin (groom’s sister) – Sykea Spa, Makeup: Trina Weatherbee – Life Salon Spa, Nails: In Good Hands
Flowers: Silver Horse Florist
Stationery: Invitations – Shutter Fly
Fireworks – Fireworks F/X
Tent Rental and related equipment – McFarlands Party Rentals and Party Central
Paper Laterns: Mesh Barn
Antique Tractor and Truck: VanOostrum Farm Equipment