Angela + Thom | Engagement

Angela and Thom met in class at University in Ottawa. But technically, they met two years before when Angela posted a notice to sublet her apartment while she went to Belgium. Thom was volunteering at the Olympics in Greece at the time, planning on moving to Ottawa from Calgary, and noticed Angela's very Greek last name. He contacted her with hopes of learning more about the Greek community in Ottawa, areas to live, etc... but Angela didn't have the time to show anyone around, she was off to Belgium! Fast forward two years, and the first day of class everyone is introducing themselves. Angela announced her name, stating her return from Belgium, and Thom's ears rang in recognition. After class he introduced himself (as that guy she brushed off two years earlier!) and they became fast friends, and soon were inseparable.

Angela and Thom are getting married on Sunday. Angela flew in early to spend time with her family and take care of wedding details, so they hadn't seen each other for a month! I think they were grateful for this last minute photo session as an excuse to just spend some time together, away from the craziness of last minute wedding details, airport pick-ups, and the demands of family and friends.

I have to say, Angela, you looked absolutely stunning! Legs a mile long and a killer smile, there wasn't one bad shot in there! Your love for each other is so apparent, the way he nuzzles into your neck, the way you laugh with each other... You were both a pleasure to shoot and I cannot wait for Sunday!

Alex + Shan

Mutual friends have been trying to set up Alex and Shan for years. They heard all about each other, how great the other is, how similar they are, how perfect they are for each other, but it just never seemed like the right time. Finally, their friend Hillary had hadenough and gave Alex Shan's number with very strict instructions to call, no ifs, ands or buts about it! This time the timing was right, and the next day Hillary received a call from both of them, each very excited for their next date... They had 5 dates in 5 days, and the only reason they didn't continue was because Alex had to leave town for work. But before leaving, he made sure Shan was equipped with skype and a web cam so they could still talk and see each other daily, on-screen at least!

The timing was also perfect for the wedding day. Everything came together seamlessly: the flowers planted in the spring for the wedding bloomed like never before, the grounds looked spectacular from the endless hours put in from friends and family, the clouds parted and rains abated for another day, and even though the ferries caused some delays, many guests were lucky enough to witness a pod of killer whales... a good omen, being symbols of longevity and romance.

Alex and Shan, you are a beautiful couple with a radiant love. It was mentioned in one of the speeches that your smiles haven't left your glowing faces since the day you met, and I have a feeling those smiles will last for many years to come! It was an honor to share in your day!

Ben + Yelena

I've known Yelena for many years, almost as long as I can remember. She lived outside of town, way up a winding road, in a beautiful house with a view of the whole valley. I loved to visit her. It felt like another world, nestled in the flowering meadow surrounded by forest. She's always had this way about her, an elegance, a softness. A beautiful soul. But then she moved to California, and shortly after, I started hearing about "some guy" called Ben. Only when I met him was I actually convinced that he was a perfect match for Yelena. Fast forward a few years, and I find myself at their wedding, at the very house she grew up in. They share a special love and in turn have three very special children. I feel blessed to have shared in your day and to have so many great memories. I look forward to many more!