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.
Leilani & Benson’s Wedding
Hey there, soon-to-be-weds and party planners!
Kotsy here, your go-to guy for capturing those ‘I do’ moments with a splash of colour and a dash of fun. Today, I’m here to share the story of Leilani and Benson, a couple who turned The Vue Event Venue in Toronto into their own little double happiness paradise. So, let’s dive into this tale of love, laughter, and a little bit of DIY magic!
Love at First Click
Leilani and Benson’s love story is a digital-age romance that started on Facebook in 2010, but it was their first real-life meet-up during March Break where it all clicked – and I mean, really clicked. They chatted about everything under the sun without a care for time. Isn’t that just the way love rolls?
Fast forward to London, England. Picture this: our lovebirds wandering around Buckingham Palace, soaking in history at the War Museum, and enjoying a stroll in St. James Park. Then, in the privacy of their hotel room, Leilani turns around to Benson dropped down to one knee, ring in hand. It was intimate, it was perfect, and it was so them.
Why The Vue?
When their original venue plans got pandemic-pivoted, Leilani and Benson stumbled upon The Vue. And guess what? It was love at first sight! They wanted a place they could call their own, and The Vue, with its stunning views and versatile spaces, was just the ticket. More about this beautiful spot later.
A DIY Dream Come True
Leilani, a DIY enthusiast, and Benson, the easy-going half of the duo, chose rich, dark colours and textures for their day. We’re talking burgundy and navy velvets – a total vibe for a summer wedding!
When asked about their favorite moments – it had to be seeing their hoodie-loving work friends all dolled up and reuniting with family from Chicago and Montreal. They also remember being a bundle of nerves during their first look, with Benson’s slight quiver being an obvious giveaway to Leilani. And their first dance? Pure magic, thanks to those dance classes!
Speaking of the first dance, they landed on Meghan Trainor feat. John Legend “Like I’m Gonna Lose You“ when picking out that special song. A cheerful, upbeat choice for a couple that embodies those very traits. However, this wasn’t their first choice! It was a compromise after deciding Unchained Melody, the first song they ever danced to, was a little too slow.
Cultural Touches and Crocheted Boutonnières
Leilani and Benson added some unique flair with Filipino traditions like the money dance, and during the ceremony, incorporated a cord (to signify a couple’s bond), veil (for protection), and 13 different coins (to show the promise of prosperity). Keeping up with the DIY theme, most of the bouquet and each boutonnière were crocheted! I’m still in awe by the distinctive charm they brought to the wedding!
Next, there was the flower selections, with daffodils, lily of the valleys, anemones and roses being selected to represent each of their fathers, as well as Leilani’s aunt and grandma. Finally, double happiness symbols were placed everywhere they possible could in the venue to pay homage to Chinese traditions.
Planning Through a Pandemic
Navigating wedding planning during a pandemic was no small feat, but Leilani and Benson did it with grace and a sense of humor. Their advice? Have fun, think of your guests, and the wedding won’t ever have a dull moment. All the fun was made easier by their MC, Ivan, who came prepared with a kissing wheel and photo scavenger hunt game that provided a seemingly endless supply of guest engagement over dinner.
One final tip from the couple that may seem obvious, but easily forgotten during the go-go-go nature of the day — don’t forget to eat! Have some lunch before the ceremony and snacks afterward to hold you over until dinner. More on that and other tips can be found here. And speaking of eating, the big question is: which direction did they go for the wedding cake? A vanilla raspberry delight that wasn’t too sweet – I may or may not have snagged a slice. Spoiler: I absolutely did.
More About The Vue
As soon as you step in, you’re greeted by contemporary architecture with a touch of elegance. Imagine modern design meeting sophisticated style – that’s The Vue for you. The sleek, modern lines is a blank canvas that couples can transform into just about any vision.
Then there’s The Vue’s outdoor space, which provides a touch of nature for ceremonies and cocktail hours. It’s like an escape from the city without actually having to leave it! And after the wedding has moved inside, you can still enjoy the expansive surrounding greenery through it’s gigantic windows. It’s like Mother Nature herself RSVPed to your wedding!
Capture Your Own Love Story
Inspired by Leilani and Benson’s story? Planning your own big day at The Vue or somewhere just as spectacular in Toronto? Remember, every detail counts, and every moment is worth capturing.
Whether you’re all about those DIY touches, cultural elements, or just want to make sure you remember the look on your partner’s face when you walk down the aisle, I’ve got you covered. Head on over to kotsy.ca and let’s talk about how we can freeze those moments in time, so you can relive them for decades to come.
Love, laughter, and happily ever after,
Kotsy 📸💖
Vendor Listing
Venue: The Vue Event Space
Wedding Cake: Just Temptations
MC: Ivan at Happily Ever Laughter
