Dawna and Trevor had a gorgeous rustic wedding at the beautiful Balls Falls near St. Catharines.  It was a perfect day!!  The weather was gorgeous, Dawna was stunning, and Trevor cleaned up nice too … hehe!  Everyone got ready at the Holiday Inn in St. Catherines … this is a beautiful hotel for photos (and they have a bowling alley attached … totally unrelated, but freakin’ awesome!)  Trevor and the guys had these awesome bow ties … maybe my favourite neck wear to date …

And LOOK at these tiffany blue patent pumps!!  Ugh … love them!!  Apparently they were “slicing off toes” according to the bridesmaids … but all women know that beauty equals pain, am I right?

Dawna’s gorgeous makeup was done by Makeup Worx. They are located on the east Hamilton Mountain, but they came to the hotel to keep things simple and convenient for the bridal party.

Trevor and Dawna decided to do a first look at the hotel so that everyone could travel together in their vintage limo bus … this also gave us lots of relaxed time for pictures at the venue … I LOVE it when couples do a first look!  This special moment just can’t be captured the same way when the bride is walking down the aisle …

LOVED this whole bridal party!  Awesome people inside and out!  : )

Balls Falls is honestly such a pretty place!!  Even with a bright sunny day and not a cloud in sight I was still able to take shaded, evenly-lit images against all of the backdrops that I wanted to use!!  I was in heaven …

This next shot made me squeal when I saw it taking shape … literally, squealed out loud … kinda embarassing.

And while I was getting that shot, my awesome second shooter Shawn was getting this next one … and THAT is why having two photographers is so important!

After formals we went into the intimate chapel for the ceremony.  Dawna and Trevor wrote their own vows, and had everyone laughing … it was very refreshing!

The reception was held in the big barn, which is just STUNNING for wedding photos!  All of Dawna’s rustic DIY details completed the vision and made it so personal. I would call this a “pinterest” wedding for sure!  My little photographer heart was bursting with joy!

A pie bar for dessert and homemade jam as favours … just perfect!

I’ve seen a lot of fun ideas in lieu of the traditional guest book, but this one was a first for me.  Trevor and Dawna bought a Jenga set and had each guest write a message on a block.  Now they have a fun game to play, filled with love and well wishes from their family and friends.  Fantastic idea!!

Thank you so much for having me Dawna and Trevor, and trusting me with your memories!  It was an absolute pleasure getting to know you and sharing this special day with you!  Even though you’ve moved up north, please don’t be a stranger!!
xoxo,
Melissa