Last weekend I awoke to the rain beating down on my roof and windows, and briefly (only briefly) questioned my chosen profession that was dragging me out of my cozy bed on a dreary Saturday morning.  But, rain or shine, Sarah and Colin were getting married and that was more important than any desire to crawl back under the covers.  I grabbed a couple extra umbrellas, some caffeine, and my gear, as I jumped in the car and headed down to the iconic Granville Island.  It’s one of my favourite places to shoot, so I was thrilled that the getting ready, ceremony, mid-day shoot, and reception were all in this one beautiful place.

As the rains stopped and clouds began to thin, making way for the sun later that afternoon, the bride and her entourage pulled up in a white limo, and headed inside to check into their rooms.  The bridal suite wasn’t quite ready yet, so we killed some time and ordered some snacks in a bridesmaid’s room.  A short while later, we found ourselves in a much more spacious room where the getting ready began in probably the most laid back, relaxing manner I have ever encountered!  These girls know how to get their wedding on while keeping stress at a minimum!

Once everyone was dressed and ready to go, we jumped in a car and headed across the small island to where the groom was anxiously awaiting his first look as his bride walked down the aisle.  We entered the spacious location (which would double as the reception space later on), and got in position to capture the emotional moment – and many more throughout the ceremony.

After their “I do’s” we headed out for the mid-day shoot while the space was converted over for the reception.  My friend, Clint, of Clint Bargen Photography, led the way while I focused on capturing more “behind the scenes” type photos during this part of the day.  I am always torn between what I like more – leading shoots and positioning everyone, or slouching around in the bushes grabbing stuff like this:

After the mid-day shoot and before dinner, we took some time to capture all the wonderful details and decorations that so clearly spoke to Sarah’s love of her career as a school teacher, before the newlyweds made their grand entrance!

The evening felt very much like the morning in that it was relaxed, laid back, and just full of enjoyment without stress.  Speeches, games, good food, and good times.  We left them later that night dancing up a storm as this chill couple, with their friends and family, really know how to tear up the dance floor!

Congratulations, Sarah and Colin!  It was a privilege to be a part of your special day!