A beautiful summer Day in Stratford, ON
Tracy and Karlynn wanted a wedding day unique to them - a short ceremony in the historic Stratford City Hall, surrounded by all their people, before joining their guests for a casual reception in a local eatery, but with time set aside specifically for iconic portraits. They let me know in their consult call that they were terribly awkward in photos (Spoiler alert: they weren't), but were willing to do whatever I asked them to ensure we got some great shots.
We started our day together at the Perth County Courthouse. Tracy had fallen in love with the stained glass windows when they had last been downtown and immediately sent me some photos from her phone, and I couldn't have been more excited. She had called ahead to make sure they were okay with us using the space and luckily everyone was on board and so so kind, and even let me in early to check out the space while I waited for the couple's arrival. Of course, Tracy showed up in a show-stopping red gown, that matched her favourite windows perfectly. Luckily, she let me know ahead of time, and I brought some red tulle and lace to use as a makeshift veil, which complimented her dress perfectly. After snapping a few quick portraits and testing out some 35mm film, we hopped back in the car to head up the street to Stratford City Hall to check in for their ceremony time, but promised to sneak back over before the courthouse closed.
As we pulled up to City Hall, Tracy and Karlynn were greeted by a few of their guests who were also arriving, sharing an elevator ride with excitement and anticipation for the celebration to begin. The room was historic and beautifully filled with their favourite people, as Karlynn and Tracy waited before they walked in together. The ceremony was quick, but lovely, as a few tears and funny moments were shared, followed by a first kiss and a handshake between the new bride and groom - perfectly them. Once the paperwork was signed, the ceremony was completed, and we grabbed a quick group photo with all their smiling guests, before heading downstairs to grab some portraits with their families in the shining summer sun. After completing portraits with family, we snapped another group shot with the historic city hall behind them, and guests then made their way over to Byrch & Wynn a short walk away for some refreshments while we snuck back out for a few more portraits.
We only had about 15 minutes before the courthouse closed, but it was worth the stop, as the sun had begun streaming through the stained glass creating beautiful light dancing over the walls. The Shakespeare Gardens back onto the courthouse, and because it wasn't raining (as had been forecasted) we were able to take advantage of some outdoor photo spots as well. We never stayed anywhere too long, as the sun was hot, we were starting to sweat, and the bride and groom were eager to join their guests, who greeted them warmly as they walked into Byrch & Wynn, with Tracy's custom playlist playing over the speakers, their signature cocktail being passed around, and delicious food, smiles and laughter throughout.
It was the perfect day celebrating one of my favourite couples - Congratulations Karylnn & Tracy! It was a pleasure to explore Stratford and create magic with you on such a special day!
-C
