Wedding Stories - Toronto Documentary Wedding Photographer

February 14, 2014May 8, 2018

Sonia & Dave: Mayan Riviera Mexico Wedding // Destination Wedding Photography

janice yi photography mayan riviera mexico wedding destination wedding photographer toronto

Sonia & Dave had a colourful and beautiful Mayan Riviera Mexico wedding at the Azul Sensatori at the end of May. They met in Whistler, BC in 2009 through Dave’s brother and Sonia’s good friend. Dave fell instantly for the gorgeous and bubbly Sonia on that wintry evening. Two and half years later, they returned to Whistler and that’s when Dave proposed. So four and a years after they first met, they brought their friends & family from all around the world to a beach in the Mayan Riviera to celebrate the beginning of their marriage.

A HUGE thanks to my friend Sara of Sara Wilde Photography for bringing me along!! Thanks for letting me be your sidekick :) Check out Sara’s blog for more photos!

Here’s the story of Sonia & Dave’s wedding day.

‘Doli’ or the bride-send-off-ceremony was a particularly emotional ritual. It got Sara and I teared up as well.

February 11, 2014

Anna & Will Elope // Elopement Photography Toronto

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Anna and Will eloped on an early October morning. They met in high school math class and have known since then that they’ve found the one :P True story. I think when you meet your other half so early on in life, there’s always a chance of growing apart in the years to come. That can happen at any stage in life, but it seems to be much more likely to happen when we are young. But these two have not only cultivated a relationship based on respect and friendship as well as love, they worked hard to stay connected and grow together.

They were planning a big move to California and after more than 10 years together, they finally tied the knot. With four generations of families together as witnesses, it was a really intimate ceremony. Afterwards I followed them onto a streetcar and took some very iconic streetcar photos :)

February 7, 2014July 4, 2023

Caribbean Destination Wedding // Sarah & Nate

Elegant Destination Wedding on the island of Nevis | As featured on Jet Fete

At the end of October I had the opportunity to photograph a destination wedding in the sunny Caribbean (my first!). Sarah and Nate tied the knot on the tiny island of Nevis in the Caribbean. When they decided to get married, they knew they wanted a destination wedding, but didn’t want the typical destination wedding places. So when they visited the island in January of last year, they knew that this unique and remote island was the place. Their ceremony was held at an old church in Charlestown, and the reception was held at a seaside restaurant venue of The Four Seasons Nevis.

Surrounded by their nearest & dearest and the beautiful scenery, it was a magical day. Thank you Sarah & Nate – it was amazing to be part of your day and document it all!

Before a first look with Nate, Sarah had a first look with her dad. It was really sweet.

January 21, 2014November 24, 2016

Janine & Chris // Toronto Wedding Photography

Featured on La Bride | Restaurant Wedding in Toronto

Janine & Chris met in teacher’s college through mutual friends. And Chris just knew that she was the one for him. They seem to be opposites in a lot of ways, but I think they complement each other perfectly. They have been teaching overseas the past few years, from South Korea to Bangladesh, and traveling to many places while they taught. Now they are on their new adventure in Qatar. You know what they say, couples who travel together stay together. :)

So on a warm summer’s day at the end of July, Janine & Chris got married at the Earth Bloor West restaurant (sadly this location is now closed). It was nice and warm and the sky threatened to pour down on us all day, but it held off until after their wedding. Janine and her bridesmaids got ready at her parents’ house, then we went to the Evergreen Brickworks for her and Chris’ first look and some portraits before heading to Earth for their ceremony and reception.

Not only was it a day of happiness and love for the couple, it was also a reunion with friends & family alike. Thank you Janine & Chris, for inviting me into a small but significant chapter of your adventures together!

November 7, 2013August 6, 2015

Anna Maria & Duy // Ancaster Old Mill Wedding | Documentary Wedding Photography Hamilton

documentary wedding photography toronto janice yi photography

Anna Maria, or affectionally known as Amma by friends & family, and Duy got married on a rainy day in September. It rained, oh how it rained. But all the rain in the world could not dampen their joy and excitement for their wedding day. Though as you will see, the sun did come out to play for a bit, and at the best time of the day too.

Amma and Duy met in grade 10 Chemistry. They became friends, and then best friends. Then Duy asked Amma out on a date, she resisted at first. After a year and half of perseverance on Duy’s end, Amma finally conceded. A smile and a laugh from Amma while sitting together at McDonald’s waiting for their friend were all Duy needed to know that he loved her. After 12 years together, they are like an old married couple, which is so sweet to see. I believe while love is a prerequisite for a marriage, it requires so much more for it to be a happy and long lasting one. Qualities such as friendship, companionship, the ability to make each other laugh etc. And I think they have it all.

It was a day of tremendous joy and happy tears, and a coming together of family & friends! Amma & Duy, I loved immersing myself in the energy of your special day. Thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of it!

Here’s the story of Amma & Duy’s Ancaster Old Mill wedding.

Prep location: Osler House

Bride’s gown: Ritché Bridal

Groom’s attire: Lloyd & Company Bespoke

Ceremony/Reception location: Panagia Greek Orthodox Church / Ancaster Old Mill

DJ: Alpha Entertainment

November 4, 2013July 30, 2014

May & Brandon // Estates of Sunnybrook Wedding | Documentary Wedding Photography Toronto

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I think a wedding has different meanings to different people. For May & Brandon, they wanted something a little less traditional, a lot more fun, relaxed and personalized. And with the help of their amazing wedding party, that’s exactly what happened on their wedding day. May didn’t want a long wedding gown, so she chose a short dress that’s beautiful, unique and playful, totally reflective of who she is. They didn’t really care for real flowers, so May made a bouquet of gorgeous paper flowers. Instead of a traditional suit, Brandon paired his white shirt & grey pants with a purple tie (May’s favourite colour & their wedding colour) and sneakers. My favourite part of the day was probably their ceremony, they read their own vows which made everyone both laugh and tear up. Then they had a lovely Estates of Sunnybrook wedding reception that featured a barbecue menu, their favourite candies, and a photo booth.

The day was definitely infused with their personalities and the people and things they loved most. Everyone present on that day were witnesses to the special connection they have. May & Brandon, thank you for having me there to document this special day for you! I hope these photographs captured not only your day, but how it felt to be a part of it. Wishing you a life time of love, laughter, games, and delicious treats! ;) xoxo

Ceremony location: Edwards Gardens/Toronto Botanical Gardens

Reception location: Estates of Sunnybrook

Hair/makeup artist: Irene Sy

Flowers: DIY by the Bride

Bride’s shoes: Michael Kors/Birkenstock