From Kew Gardens to Gio Rana’s: A Beautifully, Simple Wedding Celebration.

I still think about this wedding all the time because it was such an absolute honour to capture. Kirsten and Lucas have been together for over 10 years, building a beautiful life together that  includes their angel of a daughter. When it came time to celebrate their love story, they chose to gather their closest family and friends at Kew Gardens in the Beaches, followed by dinner and drinks at Gio Rana’s, one of their favourite Toronto spots.

Kirsten actually found me through a friend whose intimate at-home wedding I photographed a few years back. Their stories were so similar, and she wanted the same relaxed, authentic approach to her own day. If I had to describe Kirsten in one phrase, it would be easy breezy. That’s exactly how she wanted her wedding day to feel effortless, candid, and full of joy.

Her vision was simple: candid moments of her loved ones celebrating alongside them, with just a handful of posed portraits mixed in. And that’s exactly what unfolded. A heartfelt ceremony under the gazebo in Kew Gardens, surrounded by family and friends close by. Then a short walk along Queen street, to hop on the streetcar to arrive at Gio Rana’s, where they shared dinner and drinks together.

What stays with me most about this day is how beautifully simple it all was. No fuss, no overcomplication - just love, laughter, and community. It’s a reminder that keeping things local and heartfelt can be every bit as meaningful and beautiful as the grandest celebration.

Venue: Gio Rana’s
Ceremony: Toronto Kew Gardens
Officiant: Paul Belyea
Dress: Alexander McQueen
Photographer: Jessica Laforet

Muskoka Fall Wedding at Bayview Wildwood Resort

Lyndsay and Chris got married in October at Bayview Wildwood Resort in Muskoka, on a day that felt more like summer than fall. The sun was out, the air was warm, and everything about it felt calm and peaceful. It was the perfect setting for such an intimate celebration surrounded by some of their most nearest and dearest.

From our 7:00 AM start to their first dance as a newly married couple by the lake and heartfelt speeches from family and friends, the day was full of emotion. Every part of it felt intentional. Every interaction reflected how deeply Lyndsay and Chris care for one another and for the people in their lives.

When I look back on this day, I feel grateful to have been there. I hope the photos we created together will always bring them back to how it felt. The laughter, the warmth, the love, and the stunning, magical beauty of Muskoka in the fall.

Vendors Who Made This Magical Wedding As Great As It Was

Photographer - Jessica Laforet
MUA - Make-Up By Chelsea B
Hair Stylist - Mau Mau Artistry
Venue - Bayview Wildwood Resort
Florals - Carol Tobin - Barrie Flowers
Dress - Mikaella Bridal
Officiant - Barbara Rowlandson