Marie-Josee (MJ) & Kyle
Cottage life: MJ and Kyle first fell in love at MJ’s parents’ cottage in French River, Ontario. When it became time to plan their wedding, there was no other option but to host an intimate gathering just down the river. Just one week before their wedding, the Northern Ontario wildfires caused a mandatory evacuation of their venue. Luckily the fires were contained in time for their wedding day – cause for extra celebration on the day-of.
A special ceremony: Dot, an Oibway Elder, officiated the ceremony and was able to add beautiful traditional elements. A smudging and a traditional blessing were performed, and they shared a wedding prayer thanking the earth, their parents, their friends and the love they share. Adding these elements, with classic vows and contemporary readings in both French and English, made the ceremony perfectly intimate and personal.
MJ’s favourite part: “Having everyone we love be a part of our day was key. I have many friends who are incredibly talented artists. Gathering everyone together brought my childhood dream of a forest wedding a reality. Some of our family members couldn’t be with us in person since their passing, but we found ways to incorporate their memories in special ways, from using cedar trimmings from my grandfathers’ trees, infused honey with my neighbour’s wild roses, my aunt’s rosary, my grandmother’s pearls. We surrounded ourselves with the people we love, in mind, body or spirit.”
Kyle’s favourite part: “Taking the time to capture all of the small moments. Cutting of the cake, tossing of the garter, first dances, speeches, getting ready with our families. We didn’t think the traditions were as important to us for the day-of, but our team made sure to make those special moments happen, and they became some of the most incredible moments of the day.”
Photographer: Amanda Thirkill Photography
Event Planning & Design: Juniper Event Co.
Venue: Seagram Lodge – French River Golf & Country Club
Music: Hugh Jazz Music
Cakes & Sweets: Guilty Pleasures Bakeshop & Bar
Caterer: Bella Vita Cucina
Tattoo Artist: Mr. Koo – Ink and Water Tattoos
Officiant: Dot Beaucage-Kennedy, Ojibway Elder – All Seasons Weddings
Wow,beautiful wedding. The scenery is beautiful,the walking in the lakeside area gives it a touch Romance. The smudging in the celebration, simple and different. They have great memories to cherish forever. The place they fell in love and tied the knot.