What’s up, adventurers and romantics?

It’s Kotsy, coming at you with a story that’s got a little bit of everything: romance, fall vibes, and one of the coolest backdrops Toronto has to offer. Today, we’re diving into Luke and Hilary’s engagement session at the Evergreen Brick Works. So grab a drink and get cozied up in your favourite sweater because it’s time to enjoy that crisp autumn air in the Don Valley.

Evergreen Brick Works: A Love Story’s Canvas

First up, let’s chat about this dynamite location. Evergreen Brick Works isn’t just any old spot in Toronto; it’s a place where the city’s industrial past and lush greenery collide. Originally a brick quarry, this spot has transformed into an eco-hub that’s all about sustainability and community vibes. It’s the kind of place where you can find art installations one minute and a farmer’s market the next, all nestled in the heart of the Don Valley.

Now you may be wondering why Luke and Hilary landed on this location for their engagement session. Even with a seemingly unlimited options in the city, the Brick Works was a no brainer for them. It’s got that perfect mix of rugged industrial textures and natural beauty. Plus, they’ve got a soft spot for the place, having wandered its paths more than a few times together.

From An Awkward Start to Fun Memories

Imagine starting your photo session feeling a bit out of your element. Like many other couples, that was how Luke and Hilary felt. A tad awkward at first but quickly warming up to the camera, thanks in part to a couple of cold PBRs and a relaxed vibe. Their session wasn’t just about fun poses either; it was about capturing their genuine connection in a place that resonates with their journey together.

Luke and Hilary also wanted their engagement shoot to reflect their personalities: laid-back, fun-loving, and connected to each other and their favorite season. Decked out in cozy flannels and denim – we turned Evergreen Brick Works into their playground, surrounded by the warm hues of autumn and historical preservation done right.

From Online Sparks to Beachside Promises

Meeting online through Plenty of Fish in 2014, Luke and Hilary quickly realized they were a natural fit for each other. Dive bars, mosh pits, weight lifting and tattoos are just some of the many interests they bonded over as their relationship progressed.

Now fast forward past years of concerts and camping to Miami Beach just after New Years 2023. Having already mutually decided they would tie the knot, Luke waited for the right moment with an unusual mix of total confidence and nervousness. Then BAM! Question: popped, whilst they pounded back… coffee!

Reminiscing and Planning

Looking back at the photos from their session, Luke and Hilary are hit will all the fun feels. From their PBR toast to the big laughs as they ran towards to the camera while bumping into each other. Their favorite shot? The candid moments as they walked through the fall-coloured scenery, beers in hand. This is where they felt the most comfortable and themselves.

Now with the engagement session wrapped, all that’s left is to finish planning their wedding! Keeping with the non-traditional vibe, they plan to lean in to the rich history of their epic venue – El Mocambo. I can only begin to imagine all the cool ways they’ll make this wedding uniquely theirs.

Your Unique Love Story Captured

Inspired by Luke and Hilary’s unique tale and engagement session? Whether your love story is traditional, completely out-of-the-box, or somewhere in between, I’d love to capture it in a way that feels true to you. Visit kotsy.ca to learn more or hit the button below to setup a free consultation. Let’s rock! 🤘

Here’s to embracing the unexpected, celebrating love in all its forms, and capturing the moments you’ll look back on with joy and laughter for years to come.

Kotsy 📸🍂

For more love stories, photography tips, and creative inspiration, check out kotsy.ca/blog.

Photo Highlights

The post Cheers To Fall Colours: Evergreen Brick Works Engagement Session appeared first on Kotsy Photography.

Hey there, future wedding stars!

Kotsy’s the name, and capturing love candidly is my game. Today, I’m diving into Roy and Laura’s unique wedding celebration. Deciding to skip the antiquated idea of a proposal, they leapt straight into a more relaxed approach of planning their big day. If your wedding vibes are all about blending natural elegance with heartfelt warmth, buckle up!

Edwards Gardens: Where Love Blooms

First stop, Edwards Gardens! Roy and Laura, a duo that turned their work friendship into a beautiful love story, chose this spot for its lush vistas. And boy, did it deliver! Imagine saying your vows under a towering tree, surrounded by sprawling greens with the soft whisper of the wind as your ceremony soundtrack. That’s exactly what they did. Even the on-again-off-again light rain didn’t stand a chance at dampening this afternoon’s celebration.

Laura’s walk down the aisle with her parents while a two piece musical ensemble performed was one of her fondest memories of the day. And the vows they penned for each other? Both of them couldn’t help but tear up while the other delivered them in front of their closest friends and family.

After the ring exchange and legal signings, the rain brilliantly came to a stop as “Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles began for their exit. You can’t make this stuff up! Capturing these moments against the lush backdrop of Edwards Gardens was a photographer’s paradise as much as it was for a bride and groom.

Nature’s Beautiful Photo Studio

After the “I do’s”, it was time for a superbly fun photoshoot amongst the Wilket Creek and waterfall, beautiful stone pathways and a wooden bridge that was clearly built with photography in mind. Edwards Gardens delivers and then some when it comes to a wide array of fantastic photo locations. We honestly could’ve spent hours here but alas, it was time to rejoin everyone for dinner and dancing!

Cozy Digs With Central European Eats

Roy and Laura wanted a place that felt like a warm hug for their reception – and The Prague Restaurant & Cafe was just that. Nestled in Scarborough, this gem serves up delicious Central European dishes that warm the soul. But it’s not just about the food, their beautiful deck offered a perfect spot for guests to mingle under the sun and stars. It wasn’t just a big win for guests, but also a way to keep the nature theme going for the entire day.

The vibe at the reception was all about cozy elegance after Roy and Laura made their entrance to Taylor Swift’s “Daylight”. From the chicken schnitzel and beef burgundy that had everyone wanting seconds to the heartfelt speeches, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. Every detail at The Prague was a reflection of the bride and groom’s journey together.

And the first dance? Hardly one in the traditional sense as Roy and Laura decided to do it their own way again. In place of a first dance was their music playlist for the night starting with the upbeat Tears For Fears’ “Head Over Heels” while inviting everybody to the dancefloor.

Capturing Moments, Making Memories, Eating Cake

Roy and Laura’s wedding was a day filled with unforgettable snapshots. From the serene beauty of Edwards Gardens to the intimate warmth of The Prague Restaurant, every photo told a story of love, friendship, and fun. Their favorite shots? Those quiet, stolen moments amongst the greenery of the gardens. Here, their fun personalities and love for each other was as palpable as the beauty around them.

Speaking of beauty – their wedding cake was delicious as it was easy on the eyes. They went with a vanilla white buttercream cake with berry filling on one tier and orange flavoured icing on the other. And let’s not forget the DIY décor that spoke volumes of their relationship – a ladder adorned with photos, games, and a Polaroid guest book that provided them with even more captured memories to look back on.

Planning A Day To Remember

As you dive into planning your own big day, remember this wisdom from Roy and Laura. Keep the wedding true to you, be decisive and don’t fight about family while focusing inward. Laura, with her type A personality, actually had a lot of fun planning the wedding. Her main focus was the small details while keeping everything budget friendly. And the most challenging part? The guestlist and seating arrangements. Definitely something you don’t want to leave to the last minute!

Want more wedding planning tips? Head on over to this blog post.

Capture Your Love Story

Feeling the vibe of Roy and Laura’s non-traditional yet utterly captivating wedding day? Whether you’re dreaming of a garden ceremony with cozy restaurant reception or something grander, I’d be thrilled to document it!

Swing by kotsy.ca to learn more or click the button below to setup a free consultation.

Here’s to love, laughter, and the perfectly captured moments that you’ll treasure forever.

Kotsy 📸💑

For more inspiration, real love stories, and tips on making your wedding uniquely yours, visit kotsy.ca/blog.

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Photo Highlights

The post In The Thick of Nature: An Edwards Gardens Wedding appeared first on Kotsy Photography.