Aura wrapped her arms around Jonathan. As he turned around and laid eyes on his bride he looked the happiest we’ve ever seen him. And every moment after that, this Riverwood Conservancy Wedding only became more amazing.
It’s our last wedding blog from our time in Ontario! While we’re not going to make this post all sappy because of it, we thought it was worth noting. It was bittersweet and inexplicably hard to put this Riverwood Conservancy Wedding blog post together, especially because this was such an incredible wedding day. Originally planned with a very fall-rich theme for the end of October (this weekend, actually), this wedding brought fall to September. With the rich burgundy accent colour in the bouquet, ties, and bridesmaid dresses, it wasn’t too hard to imagine. The weather was perfect for a late summer wedding, which wedding party, family, and yours truly really appreciated.
The day started at a hotel for the ladies, with many different stations set up throughout their suite. When we walked in and saw Denise from Superfox Makeup working her magic on Aura, our level of excitement rose several degrees. We’ve worked with her at Victoria and Jonathan’s Toronto wedding as well, and just love her! At the groom’s getting ready space, things were organized and very relaxed. The friends present at each getting ready space weren’t just friends of the groom and bride, but of each other. This created a whole other level of connection for the entire day. And while the wedding party was large, when portrait time at the Riverwood Conservancy came, it was only thanks to Aura and her ladies that it was organized and went super smooth.
After an intimate first look in the chapel garden, Aura and Jonathan said their official vows in the church. Truth be told, however, the promises that they made to each other when they first saw each other, while only heard by the other, were probably a lot more meaningful and special. No matter what, the religious ceremony was quite likely one of our top parts of the day. Once again it’s just so obvious that our couples do not just value each other more than any other human in the world, but they also recognize that God is absolutely not to be missed in this new chapter of their lives. The readings of the Bible kept things feeling more formal, but the high-five after Aura and Jonathan’s first kiss kept it real and human.
Aura and Jonathan, although limited to the number of guests, ensured that all their loved ones were provided with a food box after the ceremony and spent some quality time connecting with especially those who couldn’t stay longer. This was followed by the best part of the day, the time that we get to spend with just bride and groom. Exploring the grounds of the Riverwood Conservancy was not only fun (especially while being blessed with amazing weather). It was so special to see the love that Aura and Jonathan have for each other. It was also obvious why they chose this gorgeous location.
Scattered all throughout the backyard were dining tables, topped with simple centerpieces. It was the glow of the string lights, however, that made every element seem magical. When the bride and groom entered the reception, festivities were started with their first dance. Never mind that their dance floor was grass, it seemed like it was just the two of them. The excitement in the air as these two started this new chapter of their lives together with this moment was palpable. And it was no surprise that we once again learned so much about them, and what makes them so special to their families and friends (and each other), from the speeches. The delicious dinner that followed was an homage to their ethnic background, and for us, who absolutely love trying new cuisines, it was the perfect opportunity for a fun date night where we got to try something new.
Aura and Jonathan, your wedding was the perfect one to capture in our last wedding weekend in Ontario. You, and all our other clients, are one big part of what was hardest to leave behind. But we know that God is with you in Ontario, and here with us in New Brunswick. And that brings us peace. We’re so grateful to have met you, and are excited with you as you start this life together. No more just Aura and Jonathan, but forevermore as Mr. and Mrs. Mani. Nothing more we can wish you than God’s blessing in your marriage. May it be more than you dared hope for and dream of, and everything that God intends it to be.
The Vendor Team
Bride’s Dress | Ferre Sposa
Men’s Suit | Moores
Bridesmaids Dresses | David’s Bridal
Hair | The Rookie Hairstylist
Makeup | Super Fox Makeup
Shoes | De Blossom by David’s Bridal
Rings | Spence Diamonds
Florals | Flowers on Ten
Cake | Sweet Selena’s Desserts