toronto wedding | Kristen Lindsay Photography

Back in July, almost a month ago now, I put on my mask for 12 hours, hopped on some planes, and tried out air travel for the first time in this new COVID-19 world to travel back to Grande Prairie, Alberta to shoot Jackie and Chris’ wedding.

Like many couples this year, their plans changed. Jackie’s family from Mexico was unable to fly up and attend. Guest numbers were limited to close friends and family. It went from a giant party plan to a more intimate gathering. I have to say–it was beautiful! Jackie and Chris are incredibly laid back and the vibe of a chill small day seemed to fit them perfectly. The decorations at the venue were well-thought out, beautiful, and it was so peaceful! They also incorporated some Mexican traditions which was so amazing. I then stole them away after to go take photos at Kleskun Hills; this is a place I used to LOVE as a child and would go to with my family. It was always an adventure and such a unique landscape in Northern Alberta, I just KNEW I had to take some photos there haha. The reception happened in their backyard, where Jackie and Chris donned masks and aprons to serve all their guests dinner, which was followed by some hilarious speeches and cute, simple dances.

I am a fan of shooting these small COVID-19 weddings! It really does show you that through all the work and stress and rescheduling and confusion and anxiety that all that matters in the end is the love that everyone shares and has for each other, and that an amazing couple got married and got to share that love! It’s really pretty beautiful, when you think about it.

I’ve included some photos of the day in this blog post. I hope you enjoy!

Venue: Serenity Acres
Hair: Victoria Brandsma Hair
Make-up: Chancie from BreezyBeauty
Cake: Carmen’s CraZ Cakes
Flowers: The bride and Gypsy Blooms Flower Truck
Dress: Calista’s
Suit: Milano’s

I’m so excited to share this cute laid back beach family session! I was concerned the day of because I’d been expecting clouds (good), even some snow (I can do it!) but direct sunlight in the middle of the afternoon on the ONLY sunny day that week? I was a bit worried, truth be told! However, luckily these guys are so chill and it all worked out. It’s also fun trying to wrangle two dogs to sit still for some photos! Either way, it’s always a ton of fun hanging out with families and giving them a good experience and photos! I am definitely not a dig whisperer. It’s definitely hard to remember to get family photos consistently, especially if you feel nervous in front of the camera or you’re very busy. But time flies!! Before you know it everyone will be grown up. (I mean, you can definitely still take photos with everyone grown up!). But there’s nothing to fear! In the end you’ll finally have some of those fam photos you’ve been wanting to have and share! I can’t wait to send them their 10 free prints too, because I firmly believe in giving the gift of a physical product. It is SO important to actually use, hang, and share your photos! <3 Anyway, enjoy these cuties!