A sentimental day at Georgian Peaks Ski Club

Emily and Ryan's beautiful wedding at Georgian Peaks Ski Club outside of Collingwood, Ontario was just so perfect. This day had layers to it and was my favourite kind of wedding to photograph. One that had emotional layers, sentimental layers, and the “wait, this is so beautiful I might cry again” layers.

Emily got ready at home, surrounded by the people who know her best. One of the most meaningful moments happened quietly, when her mom gifted her her great-grandmother’s pearl necklace. It was originally a double strand, but her mom had it re-clasped so they could each wear a strand on the wedding day. The first of many tears were shed in this moment, mine included. Then came her mother-in-law seeing her in the dress for the first time, which was followed by the emotional gut punch of her dad seeing her all dressed up. If you’re wondering, yes, there were more tissues involved. We also learned Emily’s grandfather (who had since passed) was a wedding photographer, which felt like the sweetest little nod. I liked to think he was there in spirit, approving angles and my lighting choices.

Emily and Ryan shared their first look at Lora’s Bay with just the two of them present for the moment. I love the look of the calm waters behind them in this moment. After collecting ourselves after another emotional moment, we headed to Georgian Peaks, where one of my favourite details of the entire day greeted guests: their engagement photos printed and displayed as you walked in. It was so personal and so them! Their guestbook doubled as a future adventure plan where guests wrote down favourite travel spots, epic hikes, and bucket-list ideas.

Outside, overlooking the ski hills, with big fluffy clouds Emily and Ryan stood together in front of their loved ones and exchanged heartfelt vows.

Golden hour gave us dreamy portraits of just the two of them, and then (because this day kept delivering) we snuck out under a glowing full moon to snap a few more. There was so much genuine laughter and (of course) more tears brought about by family/friend speeches, and then Ryan’s parents surprised Emily with a family crest ring, officially welcoming her into the family! Emily later switched into a sparkly dress and they did a full dance to Like a Prayer.

This day was absolute magic from start to finish!