09/27/2026
All year, I've been counting down the weekends until Sarah and Cara said I do. Well, it finally happened yesterday, and I'm still on a high from it! After their beach engagement session last summer, I knew their nuptials wouldn't disappoint. These two are so in love, so carefree, so fun, and it all translates so well on camera.
These two grew up in big bad Chapleau, so naturally, it made sense to say I do in the small town. It was my first time to the rural community, and honestly, I'm kind of hooked. The people, the nature, the charm, it was all so lovely--minus that weird bridge over the train tracks that is the equivalent of a 400 series off-ramp (but I digress!). I'll be back for sure!
The day was all about spending it with those you love. They were surrounded by love and friendships all day long. And what a way to mark the first-ever LGBTQ+ wedding in Chapleau (don't quote me on that, but we're 99% certain it was!).
Cara and Sarah got ready together in Sarah's brother's home. All eight bridesmaids, parents, the two brides, and more converged on the quaint home. Everyone helped everyone with their hair and makeup while we sipped mimosas. Their was also some random tractor rides that just made my morning. Watching the brides in their matching PJs ride on lawnmowers and snowblowers around the neighbourhood was priceless.
After dressing in their wedding fits, we were off to the golf course for the first-ever wedding at the Chapleau golf course. I think we honestly started a trend. It was a stunning location with lots of fall foliage. The fall colours were breathtaking up north!
We wandered around the golf course for family photos and bridal portraits. It was relaxing and easy. And never in my zillion weddings that I've shot, have I had two brides want to sit around in their wedding dresses so much. As soon as we got to the golf course, they were sitting on the greens with their trusty pup, the ring bearer (who lost a ring but thankfully we found it!). Eventually, the whole wedding party joined in and most were barefoot. I loved every second of it.
They were married in the later afternoon sun under a gazebo made by family while guests sat on benches also made by family. A hummingbird dive-bombed the ceremony, and two bald eagles circled above. It was so poetic. Their ceremony was rounded out by tree ceremony, where they had vials of water for special family members to pour into a larger watering can, to water the tree.
After the nuptials, we were off to the local arena for the reception, where we enjoyed the most delicious meal. Seriously folks, hit up the caterer--I'll post their info soon. The maple vinaigrette dressing was to die for. I am still obsessing over the meal. There were no speeches, just a simple thank you from the brides and a few first dances, before they tossed a bouquet and partied hard. I've never seen people dance so hard for "I Kissed a Girl". Their personal touches were everywhere, including in the hand-written notes on the back of the placards to each guest.
I don't think I'll ever get over this wedding. It was so easy and breezy. And so genuine, much like my two brides. Their smiles were endless and infectious and I really left the wedding feeling so content and grateful to have been a part of it.
Love is love. And weddings are meant to be full of it. And wedding dresses are meant to get dirty. Kick off your shoes. Take the path less travelled, and just go all in. Be like Cara and Sarah.
Congratulations, you two! It was such an honour.
🩷❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜
