documentary wedding photography toronto Archives

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 4, 2013July 30, 2014

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

documentary-wedding-photography-toronto-janice-yi-photography-30.jpg

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

September 20, 2013April 20, 2016

Amber & Alex Elope // Elopement Photographer Toronto

Amber & Alex eloped on a bright sunny day in late August.

Amber’s sister and Alex’s mom stood with them as witnesses.

Then there was me, with a camera in hand.

It was really intimate and sweet, and the whole experience was interwoven with Alex’s jokes.

Which was bad at times because he made me laugh so hard I couldn’t focus my camera.

Oh the love they have for each other.

I firmly believe that a wedding is about the people, and the marriage, not the institution or the industry of weddings.

So cheers to doing things your own way you guys!

Here is the story of Amber & Alex’s elopement.

P.S. Amber’s beautiful bouquet was from Coriander Girl!

September 3, 2013November 24, 2016

Alton Mill Wedding: Sarah & Sean | Toronto Wedding Photography

Rustic Elegant Alton Mill wedding | Featured on The Wedding Co.

Sarah & Sean had a beautiful Alton Mill wedding in Caledon early last month (you can also check out their Woodbine beach engagement session). After a week of rainy and humid weather, the Saturday came and it was just right for an outdoor wedding: a little bit of sun, and a little bit of breeze.

Sarah was beautiful in a lace gown and Sean was dashing in a three-piece suit and bow tie. The lovely Laura and her team from Marvelle Events styled the wedding with rustic yet elegant touches.

Christiane from Ceremonies to Remember crafted a personalized ceremony with Sarah and Sean with tidbits about what it was that originally attracted them to each other, the obstacles that they have since overcome in their relationship, and the future that is to come. They exchanged vows as they exchanged rings. It was also here that I heard one of the most beautiful and moving readings of Pablo Neruda’s Sonnet XVII by a dear friend of theirs. For the icing on the cake, their adorable pooch Duke made a guest appearance during the ceremony.

And that was just the ceremony.

Here is the story of Sarah & Sean’s wedding day.

Congratulations you two! Wishing you a life time of happiness together.

The Wedding Team:

Ceremony & Reception venue: Alton Mill Arts Centre

Prep location: Millcroft Inn & Spa

Event coordination/Styling/DJ Entertainment: Marvelle Events

Wedding Cinematography: Patrick Hodgson

Officiant: Christiane Bristow | Ceremonies to Remember

Flowers: Parsons Florist

Hair stylist: Michelle Ang

Catering/Cake/Dessert table: Gourmandissimo

August 1, 2013November 24, 2016

Auberge du Pommier Wedding // Helen & Adam

Remember this sweet couple and their engagement session? Helen and Adam had a beautiful Auberge du Pommier wedding on a sunny day in May. It was an intimate and heartwarming celebration with their nearest & dearest.

I must confess that as a photographer, of all the different weddings I shoot, the smaller, more intimate weddings have a very special place in my heart (perhaps partly because that’s what M and I had). They are more relaxed, more intimate, allowing you to actually be able to spend some time with your guests, and focus on being present for that special day. It doesn’t just blur past you, and it doesn’t have to be.

I don’t even know what else to say, but that the people I get to meet, and the stories I get to tell, that’s what it’s all about.

Thank you, Helen & Adam, for being genuine, authentic, for being you; for being in love the way you are; for loving the way you do, each other, and your friends and family; and most of all, for inviting me into your story and trusting me to tell it. Here’s to love & laughter. xoxo

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Auberge du Pommier

Bride’s hair: Krista Lynn Samek

Bride’s makeup: Suzanne Mckay

Cake: I Do! Wedding Cakes

March 7, 2013November 2, 2013

Shannon & Chris {Scarboro Golf & Country Club} // Toronto Wedding Photography

Shannon & Chris got married on a late September day at the Scarboro Golf and Country Club. It was a beautiful Fall day to get married. Chris is probably one of the kindest persons I’ve ever met and he just adores Shannon. As Shannon said during her speech, he’s just a big teddy bear. And Shannon? Shannon is beautiful, and she loves Chris wholeheartedly. You can just tell they are so good together.

One note about the venue – I was surprised at how classy the Scarboro Golf & Country Club is! Ok let me explain, most golf & country clubs I’ve been to are classy, but in a modern and almost preppy way. Whereas this one is classy and vintage and has one handsome clubhouse. The club has a lot of history since it dates back to 1912.

Thanks to my friend and fellow photographer, Karen of Boutique Photography for having me along to help with this wedding!