Intimate Cottage Wedding / Tara + Justin

Tara and Justin had double the fun for their 2023 nuptials. Two weddings, two provinces, two parties. The first one - that I had the honour of photographing - was an intimate ceremony up at Tara’s family’s cottage near Parry Sound. It was a perfectly sunny summer day, with the most incredible set-up. Tara had a small collection of her accessories for the day, and while getting her makeup finished was handed an Aperol spritz, quite literally the perfect start to a wedding. Their guest count consisted of Tara's parents, brothers, aunts/uncles and cousins, and Justin's family flew in from British Columbia to see them tie the knot, though originally from South Africa!

The ceremony was set up to the side of the cottage, facing the gorgeous warm sun and water, surrounded by a tall forest of trees. Tara's grandparents rode in on a golf cart before the bride made her entrance with her father, and little cousin in toe carrying her train.

After the sweet and heartfelt ceremony, the guests header over to the tented area where snacks and beverages were flowing. And incredible touch to the day was to have family friends catering the event, who did an INCREDIBLE job (and I know, because they made me a special plate while it was still hot, a vendor rarity).

We took a few photos down by the dock but new the sunset was going to be worth coming back for later. Which we absolutely did, just as the sky turned to pastel and the heat quieted down.

After just a couple speeches (the bride and groom weren't fussed to plan anything besides enjoying themselves) the night wrapped up with some first dances and parent/child dances outside the tent. Even the mosquitos couldn't harsh the vibe. It was painful to leave at the end of the evening, though I knew I had a long drive to get to, the couples' families made me feel not just so incredibly welcome, but like a real member of the party. From making sure I was fed, had a drink in my hand, and covered in vanilla scented bug spray. This intimate cottage wedding was everything one could hope for if their goal is calm, beautiful, and fun.

VENDORS:

Photographer: Cara Chapman Photographer

Bridal Dress: Park & Fifth

Suit/Tux: Indocino

Hair & Makeup Artist: Beauty By Bretton

Florist/Decor: Pardon My Garden