Worth The Wait

Love is patient. Many of us have heard this line before and know that it is the first statement in 1 Corinthians 13, also known as the "Love Chapter". It goes on to describe other attributes of what Love is, and what it is not, but it opens with patience. Jessica and Kyle certainly proved this to be true as they planned not only one, but FOUR different weddings together. You see they were engaged before the Covid pandemic hit, so their original plans were cancelled. I met Jessica and Kyle about 2 years ago to discuss wedding plan number 3. At this point they were tired of planning and replanning and decided to take a step back and do things a bit unconventionally. They wanted to take a break from wedding planning and focused instead on the arrival of their son, Maverick. After booking their venue and a few "must have" vendors , they gave themselves a lot of time to save up again and replan their wedding day. Love is patient indeed.

Love is kind. this is another line from the love chapter that fits this couple so well. Shortly after being hired as their photographer, I started working as a receptionist at the Physiotherapy clinic Jessica worked at. Our friendship grew as we worked side by side and I had the honour of taking their maternity and family photos during that year. It was always joy to chat with Jessica in between her appointments or at the end of the day. I also got to know Kyle better during photo sessions and meetings and I can honestly say, I had so much fun whenever we hung out. They are a wonderful couple with kind hearts. By the time their wedding rolled around, I truly called them dear friends.

With no other issues popping up to hinder them, wedding number four finally arrived. Jessica and her bridesmaids got ready at the Lakeside Resort while Kyle and his groomsmen were getting ready at a house in Summerland. Both groups of friends had a great time just hanging out while they prepared for the big day. Pump up playlists were turned up, mimosas and other drinks were shared, and the excitement kept building as the time for first looks approached ever nearer. We decided on the Summerland Ornamental Gardens for the majority of the photos since it offers a variety of beautiful locations. From the huge willow with low hanging branches surrounding us with it's leaves, to the arbor with vines growing all over it, we explored the gardens while taking couple, wedding party and family portraits.

After all the photos were finished, we all headed to Bench 1775 Winery for the ceremony and reception. This venue is always a treat because of the amazing staff, great wines and its stunning view of Okanagan Lake. After everyone found their seats, Kyle walked down the aisle holding Maverick in his arms, followed by the wedding party and an emotional and beautiful bride. Jessica had tears in her eyes for most of the ceremony, but her smile still lit up the valley! There were so many cute and wonderful moments during the "I Do's". My favourite one was their unity celebration. Instead of lighting a candle or pouring sand into a vase, Jessica and Kyle shared a drink together. I have seen this before where couples share a glass of their favourite wine, but these two had a fun twist added. They shared a beer, a Corona in fact. Not just as a symbol of unity, but as symbol of enduring a pandemic with the same name.

Another aspect of this wedding that I thought was very special happened during the cocktail hour. Because we had taken all the formal photos before the ceremony, the couple had a whole other shot list for me and made sure to take photos with all of their guests and vendors. Yes, I was even able to get a photo of myself with the happy couple. The evening went on with a reception filled with lots of great food, heartfelt speeches, cake cutting and dancing. While the first dances started, I kept one eye on the sun and watched as it slowly made its way behind the hills. Once I felt like the light was perfect, I snuck the couple away from the party to take a few last shots around the winery during golden hour. It was a perfect way to end an epic wedding that was years in the making.

Love is patient.... and well worth the wait!