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Tag: Hamilton Wedding Photographer

Kurtz Orchards NHL Wedding | How to Not Stress the Eff Out

I’m so thrilled to be sharing this absolutely stunning wedding day at Kurtz Orchards for Selena and Darren. It’s classic, elegant, and so stylish, with all white bouquets, classic black tuxes, and stunning sage green bridesmaid dresses. We had a bit of rain on their day, and I was so impressed by their chill attitudes about it that I wanted to share some tips on how not to stress out your entire wedding day, even when rain shows up or other hiccups come up along the way.

Start Your Day Off Right!

Get your head in the game from the get go. Get some rest, drink water and make sure you have a comfortable sleep the night before. Spend your morning however makes you feel grounded and at ease. Coffee or tea, reading, yoga, go for a walk, etc. Be mindful of who you have around you. Folks who cause you stress should not be by your side all morning. Are you the type of person who gets overwhelmed in big groups? Then definitely don’t invite your whole extended family over and extra friends. Make sure any vendors you are hiring have excellent personalities and will bring upbeat vibes, professionalism and organization with them.

Trust Your Vendors

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- you should be heading into your wedding day with complete trust in your vendors! If you are someone who is super detail oriented, then you might want to look into having a planner on your team. Someone who can vouch for you and your most important wishes while you are busy getting ready, taking photos, and just enjoying your day. The last thing you should be doing on your wedding day is worrying about how your table seating chart is set up. Julia from Julia Stewart Events took on SO many details and behind the scenes items to allow Selena and Darren to really enjoy themselves. Let the pros handle it so you can be PRESENT!

Just Let Go

Prior to your wedding day, you’ll have put in a lot of work trying to tie your vision together, gathering inspiration and working hard to finalize a heck of a lot of details. The biggest gift you can give yourself is to just let go of perfectionism. Things will come up, the dress or jacket might get makeup or dirt on it, it might be really humid out. Just let go and embrace your wedding day for what it is- a once in a lifetime chance to celebrate your love and marriage. It’s not a photoshoot or an Instagram Reel, it’s a real day with real people and feelings and any little bumps will just become part of your story.

Enjoy!
xo Jenn

Vendor Team:
Venue: Kurtz Orchards
Full Planning: Julia Stewart Events
Photo: Jenn Kavanagh Photography
Video: Lear Films
Florals: Have a Seat
Table/chair rentals: Simply Beautiful Decor
Bar rental: Special Event Rentals
Officiant: A Divine Affair
Live Entertainment: Mike Robins from SolePower
Photobooth: Fame and Flash
Beauty: Beyoutiful Brides
Gown: Crème Couture

August 13, 2024
Sweet Summertime Dundurn Castle Engagement Session

Dundurn Castle was the perfect backdrop for Deanne and Rob’s sweet summertime engagement session. The beautiful detailing, gorgeous arches, incredible light peaking through the trees, and white walls are a dream to shoot with. These guys are such a short drive away from here, so it’s practically in their neighbourhood (and it’s only like 10 minutes away for me too!) I popped by their place beforehand, to grab some shots of them with their adopted pup Bernie. He is my BFF and is such a gentle little soul.

Photographing these guys and their September wedding next year is something that is near and dear to my heart. Deanne is a good friend and has accompanied me on many a weddings over the last two years, so I’m pretty stoked to be able to capture these special memories for her and her sweetheart Rob. Deanne’s engagement ring is the most precious vintage looking ring, by Anouk Jewelry. Is it 2018 yet?! I can’t get over how cute these two are together and I’m so excited about how our session went- they are naturals!

Enjoy!
xo Jenn

Dundurn Castle Engagement Session: August 2017

August 10, 2017
Cambium Farms Caledon Wedding: Jenna + Eric

Jenna and Eric’s Cambium Farms wedding on Canada Day was a day that was near and dear to my heart- I have known these two for quite a few years now, and was so happy to be the one they chose to document their stunning day. I have to start off by giving Jenna some huge props- this girl taught herself how to do beautiful calligraphy and signage, and then successfully tackled taking care of her own name cards, welcome signs, reserved seat signs, etc etc! There were so many special details that were thought of, so it was so fun to capture them all. They even had personalized beer cans as a take home gift (with our engagement photos on them!) I’m just sad I forgot to grab one as a souvenir!

Jenna and Eric had an intimate First Look, and it worked out to be incredibly useful for our timeline. The weather on Canada Day was not exactly ideal (although I’m sure you can’t tell in the photos!) We battled off and on rain, plus some incredibly high winds, so when the sky grew dark just minutes from the ceremony start time, we knew we’d be totally fine to wait a few minutes until it cleared so we could have the outdoor ceremony they’d dreamed of, without having to worry about portrait time being delayed afterwards! Jenna and Eric then got to enjoy their entire cocktail hour with their guests! After dinner in the barn, the party really got started in the tent and I felt like I had to include some of these hilarious dance floor shots!

Jenna and Eric, so grateful to have spent the day documenting your love!
Enjoy!

Vendors
Thank you to Kayla for shooting with me!
Venue: Cambium Farms | Hair and Makeup: Mercedes Lee Beauty | Florals: Cedar & Stone | Officiant: Mike of Enduring Promises | Cake: The Sugar Bowl Cakes | Catering: Cabral Catering | Invites: Minted | Seating Chart + Menus: Etsy | Signage + Place Cards: Bride! | DJ: Sean Caff of Cayuga Creative and Technical Services | Bridal Gown: Stella York from Sophie’s Bridal | Bridemaid’s Gowns: Dessy from Saratina Bridal Boutique | Groomsmen Bowties + Pocket Squares: Bartek Ties, Etsy | Rings: Gente Jewellery |

July 14, 2016
Blush and Navy Hamilton Wedding – Katelyn + Phil

Katelyn and Philip’s Hamilton wedding last weekend was a pleasure to witness- everyone agreed in their speeches that their love is so pure, so true and meant to be, that you just can’t help but smile and know that on May 21st, they made the best choice ever!

Even though Katelyn initially spent their first date thinking Phil’s name was actually Stan, they got over the misunderstanding, laughed it off, and have been side by side ever since. Their love bloomed ‘across the pond’ and they have since made the move back to Canada, where Philip can now enjoy all of the Tim Horton’s we have to offer.

Thank you for allowing me to share in your special day!
xo Jenn

See below for a full list of talented vendors! A huge shoutout to Sue Gallo Designs, who created the most stunning florals (and decor!)

When you ask the bridesmaids to help keep the path clear for a few minutes for the first look, and they hold up literal busloads of people!

Special thanks to Deanne for shooting with me!
Venue: Ancaster Mill | Makeup: Bride! | Hair Stylist: Cavalier Hair Fashions For Men & Women Videographer: AV Artisan Productions | Decor & Florals: Sue Gallo Designs | Cake Artist: La Rocca | Invites: Minted | DJ: Thunder DJ | Officiant: Martti, Kettlecreek Weddings | Wedding Gown: Best for Bride | Bridesmaid Dresses: ASOS | Strings: Kendra Grittani, Cello & Adam Despinic, Violin

May 26, 2016
Royal Botanical Gardens Wedding- Christina & Randy

I always learn so much about couples during their parents’ and bridal party speeches, and this wedding was no different! After an emotional first look at the Royal Botanical Gardens, we headed back to Atlantis Pavillions for a beautiful ceremony at sunset. During the speeches at dinner, Christina and Randy’s guests heard all about Randy and how dedicated he is to his family, and all the sacrifices he makes for them. Christina looked on with love in her eyes and I couldn’t help but think how great a pair they are. Christina isn’t the only lucky one though- Randy certainly hit the jackpot as well! Christina has such a quiet confidence in her and she also has so much love for those around her- the time she spent with her parents while she was getting ready, the notes she wrote to them to bring tears to their eyes, and the way her bridesmaids all fawned over her was very telling. These two are surrounded by a great net of supportive and loving family and friends, it’s no wonder they turned out to be some of the two sweetest and most endearing couples I have worked with!
Enjoy!
xo Jenn

Just the most precious first look with her bridesmaids! Can’t ask for better reactions than those!

Ahhh…doesn’t get much better than that. So cute.

The moment in their vows when Randy promised to watch EVERY Grey’s Anatomy episode with Christina…as long as she vowed to watch every televised Toronto Maple Leaf game! Loved this!

Elle & Be Films were incredible to work with and they put together this highlight reel super quick! Check it out!

Thank you to my pal Kayla for shooting with me!

Wedding Coordinator: Zerlene from Impresario Events
Makeup Artist: Renata from RDT Events & Beauty
Hair Stylist: Toni-Marie Griffin
Videographer: Elle & Be Films
Decorator: J Company
Cake Artist: Linda from I Dream of Cakes
Florist: A Vase Full
Invites/Signage: Minted
DJ/Band: Feedback Event Services
Officiant: Robb from All Seasons Weddings
Wedding Gown: Izabella Bridal Boutique, Pronovias
Bridesmaid Dresses: Izabella Bridal Boutique, Bill Levkoff
Groom’s Suit: Indochino Custom Menswear
Dance Floor Cover: Dance Floor Decor
Portrait location: Royal Botanical Gardens
Ceremony + Reception: Atlantis Pavillions

March 11, 2016
Knollwood Golf Course Wedding – Laura + James

Laura and James grew up just streets away from each other, but their paths didn’t cross until much later in life- I love thinking about all of the chances that they walked by each other, played at the same parks, but weren’t brought together (call it fate if you like!) until the time was right. This Knollwood Golf Course wedding was a hot one- the air was heavy and the closer we got to the ceremony, the more it felt like the skies could pour at any moment. Luckily, it all held off during our First Look and bridal party and family photos. But, as luck would have it, the moment that Laura was ready to walk down the aisle to James, huge rain drops starting falling and all of their guests scurried under the reception tent. Luckily, it cleared almost instantly and Laura and James got the beautiful outdoor ceremony that they had planned for.

Dawn from I Do’s by Dawn was there the whole day, organizing everybody and making sure the day ran smoothly. I adore the flower girls’ baby’s breath crowns and french braids, and the bridesmaids looked amazing in their coral gowns. Laura was brave enough to bake her own cake, and she totally nailed it. Laura also has an affinity for sprinkle donuts, so she made to sure to sneak one in and it made for such a cute photo op! James’ dad made the center pieces with logs from their own cottage, complete with a J+L branding. I love these personal touches that make every wedding unique! We wrapped up the night with some dancing under the twinkling lights, and delicious late night service by Gorilla Cheese food truck. Can’t ask for anything more!

Laura and James, thank you for having me as your wedding photographer!
xo Jenn

Check out the bottom of the post for the list of amazing vendors who contributed to Laura and James’ wedding vision. Thank you to Caitlin for second shooting with me!

Wedding Coordination: I Do’s by Dawn
Bride’s Gown: Sposa Bridal
Cake: Baked by the bride!
Florals: Debbie’s Flowershop
DJ: As You Like It
Officiant: Drew Maddison
Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal
Suits: Moore’s
Late Night Service: Gorilla Cheese Food Truck

July 15, 2015
Katrina + Aron – Rustic Hamilton Wedding

Oh, what a day! Katrina and Aron were all smiles on their wedding day, and for good reason. They are both SO sweet and were surrounded by people who truly wanted to celebrate the kickoff of their marriage (like really, really excited to celebrate…this was the loudest group of wedding guests I’ve ever had!) Katrina pulled off such a stunning bridal look with her sequin ‘Samantha’ gown by Rachel Gilbert, and neutral Nine West shoes, paired with her gorgeous cropped hair- it was quite the winning combo! Katrina’s ladies wore a great combination of mismatched dresses and Aron and the groomsmen were just having a blast all day. The rustic florals provided by PlushFlowers were the perfect addition to Katrina and Aron’s already beautifully natural looking venue.

Thank you, Katrina and Aron, for allowing me to document such a special time in your lives. I wish you two all the best!
xo Jenn

Gown: Rachel Gilbert
Makeup: Makeup by Farishtey
Bride’s Shoes: Nine West
Flowers: Plush Flowers
Officiant: Trish at Kettle Creek Weddings
Cake: Abigail Rosero
Videography: Glowstick Creative
Thank you to Caitlin, who was my wonderful second photographer!

Katrina and Aron chose to do a First Look, which is always a great way to make your day less stressful (and you get to spend more time together!)

Love this rustic bouquet!

I loved this special touch that Katrina and Aron added to their ceremony space- a hand painted sign that reads ‘What God has joined together, let no man separate.’

Wooden centerpieces cut from logs, paired with rustic flowers. Must I say more?

Naked red velvet cake adorned in baby’s breath was so simple and classic.

Perfect idea for your guestbook- poloroids of all your guests, hung on twine!

The bride and groom share their first dance as husband and wife!

June 30, 2015
Helana + Patrick – Ancaster Mill Wedding

Helana and Patrick’s wedding had more laughter and tears than any other wedding I’ve ever photographed. To say that the love and support between each other and from their friends and family could be felt, is more than an understatement. Almost every single speech at the reception brought people to tears. Every part of this day just felt so natural and so them. These two have such a special bond, and its obvious that it can be felt by those around them.
To my two wandering newlyweds- I am so thankful to have been a part of your magical summer!
xo Jenn

September 13, 2013