A Rainy Wavy Wedding by the Ocean

So, I’ll start with the ending first. If you’d like to pass on my witty commentary, go straight to my gallery, or the full 400+ pixieset gallery.

Still here? Awesome. I’m gonna tell you the story of one of the most amazing evenings in my entire career. We start off in a beautiful Victoria Barber Shoppe. We had a delicious filling breakfast, and the 5 groomsmen were all chatting and keeping the mood jovial. I found out fun facts like there were other Eric’s in the bridal party. Talk about keeping things spontaneous!

Our story begins at Victory Barber & Brand Ltd…

James was just getting ready for a shave. The shaving guy had all the same brand shaving products as me, so I felt encouraged that I had made the correct choice perusing my options. Only difference is that I shave with a safety razor, and he went with a straight razor. Also, when I’m done, it looks like I shaved with a cheese grater because my face bleeds nonstop for half an hour. Used to be a full hour. I’m making progress, internet friends (or friend, depending on how many people end up reading this)!

Already in the morning, it looked like rain was a possibility. The hard working bridesmaids quickly went to work cleaning the inside of the umbrellas. I had no idea how important this would end up being.

I found a gorgeous old apple tree to take the ring shots in. It was a little tough to position them, but once I found the right angle, it all seemed to come together. I’ve been tempted to bring in props before – ice, LED lights, but it doesn’t have the same kind of natural beauty one finds in ambient props. A hotel room is going to have a different feel than your parents house. It’s important to keep both pure.

The makeup artists were both charming and professional. Way to go girls! Every time I looked around, everyone looked more stunning.

We had one light source coming into from the window. WAY too dramatic. I set up a second one above the piano. It’s too early in the wedding to create drama – it would take away from the images later. Always be thinking about the progression in your photographs. Does it make sense?

The dress. Simple and beautiful. For now. We’re going to add to it. You’ll see.

Told you. That’s a belt, with a sash on the other side.

If you look carefully at the photo above, you can see where I set up my pin light. I’m a sly one!

It was time to say goodbye to the girls, and see how the boys were doing!

Immediately, we saw that there were a lot of excited guests. This was not going to be one of those small weddings. These two lovebirds were loved by so many people.

The boys getting ready. Teeth are getting brushed, mullets are everywhere. I can’t keep my eyes off that mullet. It’s so perfect. Communal brushing, discussions of double vs single windsors.

Some of the shirts spent a good ten minutes getting ironed. Everything had to be perfect.

Check out this lighting combo. I’m really proud of this. Nerd life, I guess.

And just like that, the groom is ready. Check out those awesome cufflinks. We were unsure of their future, but they made it down the aisle.

And now, time to hit our venue.

And what a venue it was.

Never really seen anything quite like this. A vineyard, large and old fashioned. It seriously looked like something from another time.

I took a few shots of the surroundings, then it was time to check in again with the bride!

Anne was hard at work, making sure our bride looks just perfect. I’d say she was pretty successful, wouldn’t you?

Of course you would. Time to get on the belt and wreath!

The room was buzzing the way only those rooms can. That’s what I love about a wedding. The energy, the excitement. All the preparation.  Everyone doing their part.

Looks like I’m not the only who likes being part of the action….

It’s time.

Love an outdoor wedding, even with a little bit of rain. Fortunately, the rain was letting up. It keep itself at bay for another hour or so, while vows were being made. Loved ones getting walked down the aisle.

Success!

The bride and groom had these looks on their faces. So excited. I love that look.

I’ve heard a lot of photographers don’t take photos on the receiving line. What the heck! It’s the best candid moments you’ll get through the whole wedding!

Even if a little one has temporarily lost her way…..

For some reason, these group shots are really popular. Here ya go, group shot fanatics! We have a well organized group, few gaps, no blinkers, even lighting (thanks flash diffuser), great height distribution, and good color combos. This should keep you happy until I post my next wedding.

And of course you have to post a photo with mom! I’m gushing over this venue. I know. But look how great! I love dark wood! I love it! And it’s everywhere here!

We haven’t even done our group shots yet. I got carried away. Every shot here is perfect, and I’d like to make the most of it!

The apple trees seemed to be an ongoing theme there. No complaints from me.

…..And then, it started to rain. We rushed to find some cover from the rain.

Rob found a way to get some McDonalds to us. This is a classy move, from a classy gentleman. I tip my hat to you, Rob!

And the rain was showing no sign of slowing down. Time to get our group shots! We’ve got more than enough umbrellas.

Things just start to get sticky when you have to collapse those umbrellas….

But it was all in good fun. We did get soaked, so we did a few photos in the shelter, near the old wood pile.

Loving each other came too easily to the two panda bears.

The rain wouldn’t stop, so we jumped in our cars for a coffee break. Time to head to the waterfront! But not before we get a few more photos. I told you I always push for more photos. It’s a true story.

At this point we were all pretty wet. I’ve got to say, these two really pulled through for me. Because next, we went to the famous Victoria breakwater!

….That awesome feeling when you’re not entirely sure why you’re still bothering with the umbrellas. Because you’re so soaked.

Everyone, I mean everyone was in high spirits. Big gorgeous smiles, lovely flowers. We were still having the time of our lives, and it shows. I can honestly say I’ve never had more fun being soaking wet during a wedding. My face hurt from smiling and laughing so much. Gotta work out those cheek muscles in the future, Eric!

It took me a few tries to get my color theory down. I wanted to capture the  atmosphere – the saltiness of the sea, the rage of the wind. The smell of that famous Victoria ocean water.

And as soon as it began, it ended. I looked at my watch. We’d been out here for three hours. I wanted three more. But the reception! We have to make it to the reception!

We’re all grinning ear to ear at the ridiculousness of it. Most of all me. At that point, the autofocus on my lens had quit working, so here’s me manually focussing. My flash was sizzling, later it gave out. But the images on my memory card were like nothing I’ve ever seen. I don’t think any of us had seen anything quite like it. Moments like this I can’t talk much. There’s too much emotion for words.

We took a seat, and had some food. Shoe game, speeches. We did it all.

The day was over too quickly. I was energetic and hyper, in love with the evening. After sending the bride and groom a text telling them how thankful I am to be part of their special day, I got into my car and I drove to the ferry. Can’t be late for Saturday’s wedding!

If you liked these images, consider checking out the pixieset, or following my twitter. Heck, might even be time to book me for your special event! And don’t forget, Photography lessons are coming up soon! Time to enroll and take some photos of your own!

Talk to you in three days!