Creelman Hall Wedding Guelph {Alex & Sam}

This was my first time photographing a wedding at the University of Guelph in Guelph, Ontario. However, it was the most perfect backdrop for Sam & Alex’s Scottish Wedding. Where do I even begin with this wedding. There are so many wonderful moments and memories that I can share with you about my journey with this couple but I think we will just start from the wedding day. My day began with Sam and the ladies at her Uncle Gary’s home in Guelph. Upon arrival, the ladies were all finished getting dolled up and Sam was a glowing bride to be.  Like most weddings, I start with bridal details. This included any jewellery, florals, stationary that the bride may be wearing or using throughout the day. I always get a photo of the bridal gown on its own also. I was so in love with Sam’s gown from the minute she brought it out. The beading, the lace and the straps! I love bridal gowns with straps. I think they are feminine, elegant and timeless. Once we captured all the details it was time for the ladies to get dressed. Sam did an excellent job selecting the attire for her bridal party. Her sister, who was also the maid of honour, wore a beautiful gold sequin gown to offset the bridesmaids green gowns. Alex’s sister made Sam a really pretty lace garter. This was a very sweet touch on her wedding day. With everyone dressed in their gowns and bags all packed up for the limo, courtesy of Brentwood Livery, we made our way to the University of Guelph for the ceremony.

Guests from across the globe made there way to Guelph to celebrate with Sam and Alex. The sun was shining, guests were seated and Alex and the groomsman were dressed in their kilts and ready to begin. There ceremony was short and sweet and there was no shortage of tears or laughs. I really love when couples choose to write their own vows. It is something I wish that I would have done for my own wedding. I think my favourite moment of the ceremony was near the end right after they signed their marriage license. While Sam and Alex stood off to the side, Sam showed Alex her bouquet and the photos that were attached. Included in the bunch of images was a photo of Alex’s Dad. Sadly, his Dad had passed away before he could see his son get married. It was at this point that Alex broke down in happy tears. What a great surprise and sentiment that Sam had done for him. I should also mention, I may have shed a few tears myself. It was a very touching moment to see. I am not sure how many people witnessed this moment but I was sure glad I was able to capture it.

Finally it was time to let loose and have some fun. I love my alone time with my couples. Bride and Groom portraits are always so much fun and a great time to connect with them. We made our way over to the Guelph Arboretum to do a bit of portraits before making our way back to Creelman Hall for family formals and wedding party portraits. This place was beautiful. So much lush greenery and fountains. I can not believe I had never been to it before. Once we were finished we made our way back to the hall to get ready for a yummy meal. Before dinner was served the MC’s gave the most unique and amazing house rules announcement I have ever seen or heard. Seeing as Alex and Sam love to travel, they did a airline safety demonstration for the rules. Everyone was busting a gut with laughter. It is one I will never forget.

Overall, the wedding was a huge success. I was able to spend some quality time with this great couple. Meet their amazing families. And get to work with some wonderful wedding vendors along the way. Sam and Alex, thank you for choosing Ryan and I to spend your wedding day with you. I strongly believe that we have become friends and are no longer just the ‘hired help’. We are very much looking forward to capturing your wedding in Scotland in August and look forward to plenty of other travel adventures in the future.

Cheers!