Mark & Riley - ROMANTIC BACKYARD WEDDING

What a beautiful day it was celebrating this special couple!

I have known Mark and Riley and their families for quite a few years now, and I can truly say that these two are both gems! I love the way they laugh with one another and have such a genuine friendship. Mark's words to Riley in his speech showed the way he deeply admires her and values her character - recognizing not only her outer beauty (as his stunning bride!) but also her inward loveliness and godly traits. 

​The ceremony was performed by Riley's grandad, and was very touching. One of my favourite moments of the day was the bride + groom ending off their first kiss with a choreographed 'secret handshake' routine. So great, and so them. 

For the formals we headed over to the Silverdale Creek Wetlands and found some awesome spots walking along the trails there. Riley had the idea to rent a big leather armchair for the photos, and we put the groomsmen to work taking turns hauling it around! ;) It was a great addition to the portraits and fit perfectly into the theme of their day.  

I always love a good outdoor wedding, and though the summer heat definitely showed up, we were very happy to not have any rain or wind to worry about...! The venue (their friend's beautiful private acreage) was such lovely sight with the tents all lit up as the sun went down. The decor and florals were all gorgeous and I loved the soft, elegant feel of the table scapes and colour palette. The food of course was fabulous too, complete with a spit-roasted pig! At the reception, in addition the amazing dessert table, they had a special station where you could line up for fresh Italian 'zeppole' (fried dough balls). Ahhh, they were delicious!! A perfect little sweet ending to a wonderfully sweet day.  

I hope you enjoy sharing in these images from Mark & Riley's wedding. . . ! 

      -  Janessa   

V E N D O R S
  Planner: Stephanie + the Sweetheart Events team
  Florals: Ode to a Bloom
  Makeup: Cheyenne from Inside Out Makeup Artistry
  Caterer: Orlando's Catering 
  Rentals: The Tent Guys, + One Stop Party Rentals