Reflections by Jocelyne: Mikyla and Wes

Saturday October 6, 2012

To think one week ago it was a sunny plus 26 degrees outside and just a few days ago we woke up to snow. Wow, crazy Winnipeg weather. I think most brides in the city started to get a little worried when the long-range forecast for Saturday October 6th said "chance of snow." I decided to call the Fort Garry Hotel which I must say a huge "thank you" out to their wonderful staff for giving me the Grand Ballroom to use as a rain/snow back up plan. There were 4 other weddings going on that day and they were kind enough to find room for us.

I met Mikyla's mom and sisters for noon at Mikyla's room at the Hotel Fort Garry. Within minutes the gorgeous Mikyla arrived looking super cool as a cucumber with her hair and make up done sporting her casual wear and having a bite to eat. We chatted for a bit until we walked around the corner in her room and I saw her dress hanging...OMG is all I could say. What an exquisite dress, perfect for Mikyla.

The afternoon started to fly by as Mikyla's 2 sister's helped get her ready dressed in their ballerina pink chiffon dresses. The style and the colour of their dresses were so elegant alongside with the delicate flowers that were chosen for the bouquets. Watching the girls get ready reminded me of 3 little girls playing dress up. It was so cute as they all giggled and put on their jewellery. I can just imagine how much fun they had growing up together.

Our first stop was to the Grand Ballroom in the Hotel Fort Garry, to think this historic room held some of the finest parties our city has ever had. On this day, the tables and chairs were pushed to the side but the luxurious chandeliers still sparkled over head and when Mikyla walked in she lit up the room. She looked stunning!

I could have photographed her forever but I knew her "groom-to-be", Wes was waiting at the local park just a block away from the hotel.

Today was my lucky day as I had my assistant, Natasha helping me but I also had my fellow colleague and fantastic-photographer friend, Cheryl (Cheryl Struss) come out and second shoot with me during the formal section of the day. The three of us had so much fun "oooing and ahhhing" over this amazing couple.
Mikyla and Wes planned their intimate "first glimpse" at 1:30pm. I think my favourite part was when Wes turned around...he was overwhelmed as Mikyla walked towards him, he had the biggest handsome smile and I could see a few tears of joy in his eyes. I think the whole park heard him say..."WOW!"

For an afternoon that had a forecast of possible snow the day turned out wonderful. The sun shone through the leaves adding vibrance and colour to this fantastic autumn day. The air was chilly but Wes and his groomsmen had thought of everything....beer and blankets! It was so cute watching Mikyla and Wes with their wedding party as they snuggled under a cozy quilt.

I'd like the thank this awesome wedding party which consisted of Wes' best friends and Mikyla's sisters. What a great group. You were all so great to work with and we had so much fun...goosebumps and all.

Thank you to Wes and Mikyla for your kindness, your laughter, but most of all for being such a great couple. You have a great love and admiration for each other which made photographing you both so fantastic. I saw your compassion and humour the night I photographed your engagement session as your adorable dogs rolled in the grass as we were trying to get "just one more photo" you both just smiled at each other...it was perfect. I wish you both many years of happiness and tons of laughter.

As we finished the formal section of the session, I had to laugh as I had asked Mikyla and Wes to dance slowly...all of a sudden Wes started to sing giving Mikyla the giggles.

Wes and Mikyla were married in a beautiful candlelight ceremony at Breezy Bend Golf and Country Club amongst family and friends.
An elegant reception followed with a delicious dinner, hoola-hoop entertainment, a slide show presentation, hilarious speeches and even a dance from Mikyla's dad. The room was decorated with beauty and romance in mind as hydrangea's stood in glass vases high atop each table. Truly exquisite.