Royal Botanical Garden & Lakeview by Carmen’s// Hamilton, ON

Photo Location: The Royal Botanical Garden (Laking Garden).

Photographer: Rachel Fletcher Photography

I had the absolute PLEASURE of shooting this beautiful spring wedding back in May. E & J’s love was for each other was very evident from the very start. I shot their engagement photos back in the winter and it was so lovely getting to know them beforehand. We had lots in common and I was so excited that they found me and decided to trust me to document their beautiful love!

We started the day at 1:45pm at The RBG, I was able to get some shots of the groomsmen before the bride arrived for the first look!

When the girls arrived I had them wait until the beautiful first look location was available for us to use. This time did NOT go to waste, it was a perfect time for the girls to chat and process the exciting day ahead of them.

The First Look

We then began the first look at the most stunning canopy. With first looks I always communicate with the bride and groom so that they know what to do/expect for the first look. I often have the groom stand and look into the distance (or the other direction from the bride lol), and I have her slowly walk towards him, looking back and me then have her hug him from the back. This creates a really special moment between the two. Once they are feeling comfortable and very excited I have him turn around and let then have their moment.

Private Vows

A first look and private vows is a beautiful way to slow down the day and be fully present with the people around you. It creates a the sweetest of moments that you can reflect with without a crowd of people watching. We made sure weeks before when going through the schedule to take into account of this time so that the day would run smoothly!