This wedding will always be special. I have known Julia and Ruben for quite some time, we all became friends very quickly. They both have sweet, funny and warm personalities, and we just clicked immediately.

Being one of the first few to know of their engagement, I was loaded with emotion because at the same time, she told me she wanted me to capture their big day. It’s so meaningful when a friend trusts you to capture an important moment of their lives and wants you to be there beside them.

Her adorable family means the most to her. You’ll see the love emanating between them both as a couple and for their daughter and son. I love how she also had their outfits ready for detail shots while they were getting ready in the morning.

As it was the first day of September, it was quite rainy. But their location, the Doctor’s House is already beautiful even from the inside. With Julia’s jaw-dropping decorations, it gave us plenty to work with indoors. We ended up with magazine-worthy shots that were still so personal and unique.

As an event planner, Julia went above and beyond for their big day—every single thing was so well-thought-out. The candles, flowers and simple altar made for an intimate and solemn ceremony. And then from cocktail hour to the reception, the atmosphere turned into this big, elegant celebration.

The whole place on its own was a feast for the eyes. A huge balloon arch and swing set was the backdrop for the photo booth area, a cigar bar was set up for the gentlemen, and every table was adorned with tall rose centerpieces and at least one bottle of red wine for guests to share.

Nothing could beat the couple seat decorations though. Surrounded by roses on every side and with the lovely three-tiered cake at the center, the couple and their children completed the setup.

It was so stunning, and then to have her say she did this all herself blew my mind! It was absolutely whimsical and I loved her taste.

To get the dancing started, dancers in glittery costumes and huge feathery headpieces came out and broke the ice. It was impossible for everyone not to break into dance after that.

This was one epic wedding that I had a blast photographing. I’m sure Julia and Ruben (and the guests!) will have fun reminiscing about it until they’re old and grey.

Venue: The Doctors House – Kleinburg
Brides Dress: Mona Richi Salon
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
MUA: Joy Seligman
Hair: Girls of Diva
Florist: @cchavenimv
Bakery/Cake: Baked Naked