
It probably happens much more than we realize. Two families grow up around the corner from each other until one moves away to another province, never imagining that some twenty years later they would be reunited at the wedding of their children.
This was the foundation for Barb and Patrick’s wedding celebration . And the friendship, familiarity, and joy shared by all made Barb and Patrick’s wedding a true uniting of two great families.
Of course, none of this awesomeness overshadowed what the day was truly about. Two beautiful people found each other one unexpected evening on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and began what would become their great love story culminating on this day.
I began my day with Barb. Though the house was full of her family everyone was busy getting themselves ready, enjoying the time and one another. I had some time to myself to photograph Barb’s stunning details, including her gorgeous/light/simply elegant gown before walking around the house capturing some candid moments and then photographing Barb as she began her final preparations. This morning began what would be one of the more unique weddings I have photographed.









My second shooter Karina began her day with Patrick at his family’s summer home, where the wedding reception would take place later that day! Patrick’s suit was equally stunning and I love the candid moments Karina captured!






Definitely, a favourite detail of mine from the day was Patrick’s classic caprice. It was his chariot to the ceremony and later the newlywed's getaway car. I was on my way to get ready for Barb’s walk to the church when she would be escorted by her father and a bag-piper!








I just love this moment and Patrick’s expression as Barb walked ever closer to take her place at the front of the church with him.




Long-time friend of Patrick’s family, Revered Séamus P. Finn flew in from working overseas to preside over Barb and Patrick’s wedding ceremony, bringing along with him the heart and spirit of Patrick’s uncle and namesake. His reflection and inclusion of all the names of loved ones unable to attend the wedding celebrations were so beautiful and meaningful. Such a wonderful reminder that each one of us is part of a bigger legacy connecting us to generations of the family no longer with us.


One of my favourite moments during a Catholic Mass ceremony is when the congregation takes a moment to wish one another peace.









These two. Just stunning.





Just to the right of these rocks is the beach where Barb and Patrick reconnected and began the series of events, adventures, conversations and dreaming big that led to this day.
























Barb and Patrick opted for a family style meal! Loved how guests served one another.


Patrick scoured the planet so he could surprise Barb with a “Bardsley Hat,” welcoming her to the family with a piece of his heritage.

















It’s no secret that I love photographing weddings with live bands! And Tuxedo Junction from Boston Massachusetts rocked this party all night long!




Barb and Patrick’s wedding day was a dream to photograph. Every part of it was simply elegant and planned so that the newlyweds could have as much time to share their day with guests. I am so thankful to have been the one to document it for them. And a huge shoutout to the lady that coordinated this entire affair, Katy MacDonald with Celebrations By Sarah. This wedding had a lot of moving parts and she brought it all together brilliantly!
The amazing creative team (I am sure there are more but these are awesome folks I know about):
Photography: Shannon-May Photography (assistant photographer: Karina Kierstead)
Wedding and Event Coordination: Katy MacDonald, Celebrations by Sarah
Ceremony Venue: St. Andrews Catholic Church
Ceremony Officiant: Revered Séamus P. Finn
Reception Venue: Hobbit Hill (Patrick’s Family Summer Home)
Flowers and Wedding Decor: WEDS by Sylvain
Hair: Jenna Garnett, Lorena’s Place
Make-up: Whitney Beals
Cake: Amy Greenlaw
Ceremony Musician: Stephen Mott
Reception Tents: Commercial Tents
Reception Band: Tuxedo Junction