boisdale, ns wedding PHOTOGRAPHY
Since the pandemic, I've been fortunate to be asked to photograph more smaller, intimate weddings, which I've been loving. There's something special about elopements or small ceremonies with just the closest family members. Makayla and Noah had a small, lakefront wedding on Bras d'Or. From the minute I met them (virtually), I could feel their love for each other and their excitement and it was contagious. When I finally met up with Noah that morning, you could feel all the emotions in the room; the excitement, joy and nerves. He was joined by his best man/cousin, Joel and his girlfriend. They shared some laughs and a few pre-wedding jitters in a trailer overlooking the lake. Makayla's family originates from Newfoundland and Labrador, and while I photographed her getting ready, her family was so kind and hospitable in traditional east coast fashion. I had actually met Makayla's father, Carson, back in 2020 when he officiated my first ever wedding during the hight of the pandemic, and it was so exciting to see him again.
What a gorgeous day and venue. While it was a warm summer day, there was a comforting breeze coming from the lake that helped make some dramatic shots. The ceremony took place on a small, private property right on the lake, with Noah's family providing the music. His sister, Kristie, as well as her husband Thomas, officiated the beautiful ceremony. They had the most adorable flower girls and ring bearer, all nieces and nephew of Noah's. Makayla and Noah chose not to have a first look before the ceremony, and you could see tears of happiness and love as they saw each other for the first time. There truly wasn't a dry eye on the property, myself included, as Makayla and Noah exchanged their personal vows to each other before Carson performed a touching sand ceremony with the two. Makayla's sister, Kiley was her bridesmaid, making their bridal party a small, intimate family affair.
The reception was at a beautiful hilltop property, overlooking the lake. It was casual, with most guests changing into comfortable attire. Makayla, Noah, Kylie and Joel surprised their guests with matching sweatshirts. Games were set up around the property, and for their dinner, the couple organized a build-your-own-burger bar! How unique is that? Both their parents gave touching speeches, including some fun details about the first time the couple met at a summer camp. The sun started to set in time for their first dance, creating such dreamy golden lighting. What made it even more touching was having Noah's grandfather, Pat, sing their first dance song. The father-daughter, mother-son dance followed suite and ended with a large family circle. The night ended with dancing, laughter and joy.
Makayla and Noah, congratulations! Thank you so much for letting me be part of your special day. I wish you both years of happiness and laughter ahead.
