This was one of the most exciting inquiries that I’ve yet to receive as a wedding photographer. An engagement party turned surprise wedding at The Nash. I’ve never had to keep a secret so long and yet it felt exhilarating to be one of the only people who knew Michelle and Lucas’s plans long before any one else.

Michelle’s inquiry went a little like this… “My partner and I are having an engagement party/surprise wedding in April. We’ve been together for 10 years, recently moved back to Canada after spending 4 years overseas and are just ready to tie the knot in a fun, more casual way.” I loved this idea!

After meeting with these two over a glass of wine, I was absolutely sure that they were going to pull it off! Michelle was beyond organized and I couldn’t wait to see how this all unfolded. Her attention to detail is impeccable. Girl of my own heart.

The morning of their big day, their closest family members were told. I had to be extra sneaky in finding a location for their first look as we didn’t want any of their guests to know what was happening or randomly come across us on this beautiful April day in Inglewood. A big thank you to my beautiful friend Angela, owner of Esme Beauty Bar who had just been in the renovating stages of the Ramsay Esme location and gave me access to this incredible raw and undeveloped space in the most stunning character building. It was perfect.

After the first look, we met the family over at The Dandy Brewing Company and Tasting Room for a few yummy libations and used the space behind the building for some beautiful and fun family formals. We rushed back to The Nash so that everyone could get changed into their Engagement Party attire and awaited as the guests started to fill the room. About a couple of hours into the party, without anyone noticing, the wedding party snuck away to get ready for the big reveal and Lucas’s father made the big announcement that the couple were actually getting married and the ceremony began. The stunned faces were PRICELESS!

What a day! What a surprise! What an experience!

Thank you Lucas and Michelle. This ones going to be a hard one to top. I absolutely love that you put your own unique stamp on your wedding day. A special thank you to The Nash as well. You might be my new favourite venue. Your incredible staff treated me like a guest, making sure I had absolutely everything I needed throughout the entire day. Together we were able to make magic for our couple and for that, I am grateful. And don’t even get me started about the food. Mmmmm, the food. I dream about it often!

Special thank you to all the other amazing wedding vendors who made this day so magical.

Hair & Makeup: Bellamore Beauty/ Dress: The Bragging Bride/ Florals: Blue Hydrangea Floral/ Suit: Indochino/ Bridesmaid Dresses: Shona Joy/ Reception + Ceremony Venue: The Nash Officiant: Urban Officants/DJ: Local DJ