I’m not sure that breaking news of your wedding can be made any more fun than by inviting your guests to your engagement party and telling them upon their arrival, “Surprise! You’re attending our wedding…. Right now.” A surprise wedding is the jackpot for moment-driven photographs; emotions are heightened and reactions are raw.
Second shooting this Greely wedding with Charlotte Northrope meant that I got to do all sorts of playing around with ideas. Because Chris and Veronica were getting both ready in their Greely home but planning a first look around the corner, there was a certain logistical element at play, but they managed to get out of the house without seeing each other and spent a few quiet moments together exchanging letters before they headed for their backyard ceremony.
Veronica is all personality – she’s boisterous, she laughs from her soul and she loves with her whole being. Chris is the ultimate teddy bear and it was immediately obvious that he’ll do anything for anyone he loves. That personality combination meant that we were guaranteed to see a combination of big personalities and strong emotions, and that’s exactly what we got. I loved how proud Chris’s mom looked as she walked down the aisle, while his dad didn’t quite manage to stem the flow of tears as he celebrated his son. Veronica’s uncle walked her down the aisle and gave Chris a meaningful look as he passed Veronica’s hand over in an old-fashioned gesture.
I don’t normally talk about flowers, but I have to mention Cristina Kisil Flowers. Holy smokes, oh my goodness. I’m lucky that I get to work with so many talented florists in Cornwall, but honestly, I couldn’t stop staring at Cristina’s gorgeous work! Antique-toned stems in the bouquet, the most gorgeous eucalyptus, blooms and greenery in the full-length table runner… It was breathtaking.
Veronica and Chris treated guests to a sumptuous dinner and dancing under string lights and stars throughout the evening. As the night wore on, I loved that Veronica changed out of her dress! It was time to play and so she did – in jeans and a sweatshirt. :) They aimed for the perfect day and they certainly hit the mark.
I’m Ang. I’m a Cornwall, Ontario-based photographer offering wedding and documentary family coverage locally and worldwide. Visual storytelling is what I do best and back yard celebrations like this intimate Greely surprise wedding are TOTALLY my thing. I’m an avid traveler and my passport is always up-to-date. I have dual citizenship with the UK and I’m ALWAYS ready for an adventure. Laughter is important in my life and in my work, meaning that I love working with couples who are emotionally present on their wedding day and who love spending time laughing with loved ones. Whether you’re looking for an at-home newborn session, coverage for your own intimate or surprise wedding, or photos that document your time with family, please explore more of Moment.us Photography‘s site to see more of my wedding and family photography.
