Michael & Lisa - March 21, 2009

This wedding is a prime example of one of the good things about Facebook. Lisa and I have known eachother since kindergarten... we were childhood buds. We haven't seen eachother since highschool but I have never stopped thinking about her. I often asked people "have you seen Lisa Ball lately? I would love to know what she's up to". Then one day I was introduced to the wild world of Facebook, and shazam! I was suddenly re-connected with so many people from my past. I knew it was only a matter of time before I found my old friend. I was right.

At the time Lisa was living in Alberta with her long time fella Michael. She told me if they ever get engaged she would like to hire me for photography. Less than year later she was true to her word.

What an absolute privilege it was just to even be there to witness my old friend gettin' hitched. Her man Michael is quite the character and they are really perfect for each other. During the speeches there was a lot of mention about Michael and his shenanigans. I was shocked to hear all of this. When I first met him he seemed quite laid back, and a little quiet. I almost didn't believe it... until the end of the night. By the end of the night I could see what everyone was talking about. You're a wild dude Michael, but, I know Lisa can take it :)

I really had a blast!

As I mentioned, Michael and Lisa have been together for a number of years. They have travelled the world together and it doesn't look like they are even close to stopping. Their wedding had a travel theme to it. I was extremely impressed with the decor. So much that I might have to devote an entire blog entry for the decorations alone :).

The flowers were stunning, but when I found out who the florist was, I wasn't surprised at all. Darlene Corbett (another schoolmate of ours) of Seasons Floral Studio in Tottenham provided the most amazing flower design as usual. Go to: http://www.seasonsfloralstudio.com/ to see some more of her work. Darlene's work always stands out to me, and I highly, highly recommend her.

Lisa used all of her resources that day. For make-up Lisa hired Zida Zanet of MAC Cosmetics in Newmarket. Zida is another childhood friend and she did an absolutley amazing job on all of the ladies. It was awesome to see her too! You can find Zida at M.A.C. in the Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket. She's the stunning one behind the counter :) Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Aucoin!!! I couldn't be happier for you. Enjoy!

My assistant Katherine's pic... cool shot of the dudes through the fisheye... Awesomeness

These two are also Katherines... up and down. Thanks for the help Katherine!!

Kyle & Nikki - March 7, 2009

I have been anticipating this day for over a year now. Kyle and Nikki were engaged Christmas 2007. About one week later they had just about everything booked including their venue... The beautiful, historic Gibson Centre in Alliston. I have photographed many events at the Gibson Centre, but this was my first wedding... hopefully not my last.

Kyle and Nikki are childhood sweethearts. At the age of nine their parents all thought these two kids would make a great married couple. Fifteen years later proved them all right. Kyle admitted, through many tears during his speech, that he has ALWAYS loved Nikki. I myself was moved to tears for at least the 5th time that evening.

Dinner was catered by Bistro 77 in Alliston. Now I have photographed a lot of weddings and generally the food is pretty good... with the odd exception. I have to say... Bistro 77 was by far the best I have had thus far. Amazing appetizers, prime rib cooked to perfection, even the potatoes were mouth watering... and I am not usually a fan of potatoes. If you haven't been, I recommend you go... right now.

Nick, the DJ from "Keep them Dancing" was a really down to earth genuine guy. To be honest, I thought he might be too nice to pull of the job of a DJ. When he stepped up to the mic, I pleasently surprised... he rocked the house!!

From hair, makeup, to flowers, food and music, this day turned out to be perfect. Even the rain was welcome and made for some good shots.
Congratulations Kyle and Nikki. It was a privilege to photograph you entering the next chapter of this truely amazing love story.
Enjoy!