Kotsy Photography is a Toronto wedding photographer specializing in capturing couple's uniqueness through authentic, compelling & fun images. From large, all-day weddings to elopements & engagement sessions in Toronto, Ontario and the rest of the Greater Toronto Area.
Ali & Ibtissam’s Wedding
I’ve had the pleasure of capturing the architecture, culture and people of Toronto for the past seven years. But capturing a wedding at the Guild Inn Estate was truly a gem. If you haven’t been – picture a quaint restaurant interior, no pomp or fuss, just tasteful interior décor and fine dining, French doors that lead to a patio lit up with strings of fairy lights. You are then taken to to expansive grounds decorated with trees and stunning Roman-esque pillars and arches overlooking the lake. Add in a beautiful bride and groom and their loved ones and you have a quite the memorable wedding!
When asked why they chose this venue, Ali and Ibtissam said they wanted to be among nature. And they definitely were as their ceremony was held in the outdoor gazebo so their guests could wander the grounds and see the lake. An acoustic violinist was the perfect accompaniment to the bride walking down the aisle in her stunning wedding lengha (South Asian wedding dress).
With a friend officiating their wedding, the couple shared their personal vows and it’s doubtful if there was a dry eye in the room! Short and sweet, off they went to their reception in the Guild Inn Bistro just a few steps away! But ,not before the groom had an outfit change from traditional South Asian wedding clothes to a wedding suit. It’s not always the bride with the multiple wardrobe changes!
The couple’s first looks and first photos immediately after the ceremony were captured at Guild Park & Gardens, located behind the venue. We were able to get an array of incredible shots even with only 2 fifteen minute intervals to work with! Every shot is framed beautifully by nature and the countless remnants from old downtown Toronto buildings. Having an easy going couple in really happy spirits doesn’t hurt either! The reception was an intimate and lively affair with musical accompaniment by a live Sitar and Tabla player and arguably Toronto’s best Indian food!
A More Intimate Affair
Ali and Ibtissam come from a south Asian culture of large weddings, and when asked why they chose to go a smaller route, they had a bittersweet answer. Both had lost members of their family that couldn’t be at the wedding. So they wanted to honour their memory and only have those that really cared about them to celebrate with. With simple touches throughout the ceremony and reception to remember those not there, and an intimate group of people who obviously cared sincerely for this couple, it was a beautiful celebration of life and love. And dancing of course, which continued until the end of the night!
It was an honour to capture the memories for this lovely couple and their family and friends. A wonderful party, memorable pictures, and the start to marriage both strong and magical.
If you’re planning to having a similar imprint of your love story forever then look no further. I can help you with my creative ideas and wedding photography style. I always keep the emotions at top priority rather than the surroundings. I believe at the end of the day it is not about the place you are in, but the person you are with.
Vendors
Flowers – Brown’s Flowers
Dress – Mani Jassal
Hair & Make-Up – Nila Haran
Music (Violin) – Yegee Lee
Music (Sitar) – Sitar Fusion
Food – The Host
Cupcakes – Simply Frosted
