Winter weddings are some of our favorites around here, especially when they’re filled with lots of warmth from pretty candles and gorgeous touches of gold. Yup, this wedding is pure and utter romance…the picture of perfection in our humble wedding-loving opinions. Magnolia Studios captured the feel of the day flawlessly and you can see even more right here in the full gallery.
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From the Bride… For a candlelit winter’s night, I used an ivory, navy and gold color scheme. I wore ivory, and the rest of the wedding party wore navy. The groom, groomsmen and I wore scarves with the family tartans. The bridesmaids and I all had gold shoes, jewelry and clutches. Guests were offered hot apple cider when they arrived at the reception venue and hot chocolate after dinner. The dining room was decorated with white/ivory linens and flowers. More candles than guests at the church and at dinner gave the entire evening an warm, elegant, golden glow.
We were married at Rosedale United Church in Toronto, the church I’ve been attending all my life. This was the third wedding in my family that Rev. Doug Norris officiated. He set a perfect tone for the day — celebratory, momentous and cheerful. My favorite moment was when my brother’s wife, Kathryn, sang “Come Away with Me” by Nora Jones. She has such a beautiful voice; it was indescribable. All of the guests were in awe. Graydon Hall Manor, our reception venue, was recommended by a friend. The building was exactly what we were looking for: romantic and elegant, but small and comfortable enough to feel like a home. It’s an old manor, built in 1936, that has been maintained exceptionally well — it looks brand new! Their catering company (Couture Cuisine) and Chef Magyar prepared a delicious meal, as well as a decadent dessert: molten chocolate cake. Margaret from Wild Thyme had done the flowers for my sister’s wedding in 2007. I remember my sister being impressed with Margaret’s ability to propose the right flowers for your personality (even if you aren’t able to) and to work with any budget. Her arrangements are natural and lush, and her attention to detail is fantastic. The bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, centerpieces and candles were delicate, romantic, wintery and breathtaking.
We actually bought Drew’s suit the day after he proposed. I got a new ring, after all, it was his turn for a present! He chose a ’60s-style slim fit suit made by Zegna. We bought it from Harry Rosen, and they tailored it perfectly. He added a crisp white shirt and pocket square, a stellar skinny tie and snazzy striped socks. He looked so handsome! He found similar suits for his groomsmen at Tom’s Place. My sisters and mom were very patient while I tried on dozens of dresses all over the GTA. I ended up choosing a Christos dress from Pearl Bridal House in Port Credit. It was 100% worth the drive! When I tried this one on, my sisters exploded. It has all my favorite elements in one dress: lace, a bow, and tulle! I asked my bridesmaids to find something navy, long and flowy. I LOVE their choices! Each is from a different designer. My mom, grandmother, bridesmaids, sister-in-law and the groom’s mom all came to Do My Hair (DMH) for hair and makeup. We had such fun, and the morning was full of giggles. Everyone was pleased with their transformation. The DMH team is so talented — it was the windiest day of the year but somehow our hairdos all stayed intact while still looking soft! At the salon, Drew’s mom (Lynn) gave me a necklace that her great-uncle had made. She assumed I had my jewelry chosen for the wedding already, so this was just a gift to wear another time. I was so touched that I wore it that day and gave my sister the necklace I had planned to wear.
Wedding Photography: Magnolia Studios / Ceremony: Rosedale United Church in Toronto, Ontario / Reception: Graydon Hall Manor in North York, Ontario / Floral Design: Wild Thyme / DJ: Brent of Maximum Music DJ Service / Wedding Dress: Christos / Hair + Makeup: Do My Hair / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Diane Von Furstenburg, Amsale + Monique Lhuillier / Groom’s Suit: Zegna