Heather & Jon’s touching I do’s at Heritage Estate Winery

August 12, 2019 Shannon Hirlehey

Rain on my Wedding Day? Really? Alright then!

It was a long-distance relationship success story.. between the wedding couple and me. Heather and Jon, who reside in Alberta, enlisted me as their day-of Wedding Coordinator for their Barrie, Ontario June wedding. After multiple planning discussions [over the phone of course], all the t’s were crossed and the i’s dotted, I finally got to meet them in person the week of the wedding. To my delight, we were able to pull off an amazing day, despite the rainy forecast.

Indeed, it’s no secret that the very wet, cool spring of 2019 was less than ideal and not at all the weather we’re used to; the week leading up to Heather and Jon’s wedding was no exception. It was mid-June and the forecast called for barely double digit temperatures and threats of rain every day. While remaining hopeful for sun and warmth, we took the practical step of creating a contingency plan for the rain that was almost certainly coming, and one that would still satisfy this couple’s desire to have the lovely grounds serve as the backdrop to the exchanging of their vows.

To no one’s surprise, the morning of Heather and Jon’s wedding was cloudy. As we watched the radar by the hour and despite our hopes and prayers for the sun to break through, it became increasingly likely that the rain would come and I knew I would have to have “the weather conversation” with the bride and groom. Together we made the critical decision to put the contingency plan into action, well to be honest, the weather gods made that decision for us as moments before guests were set to arrive a very unwelcome and steady stream of rain finally made its appearance, and stayed for most of the day. Wet though it was, neither spirits nor the beauty of the this special day were dampened, to which these stunning photos from the oh so incredible Brooklynn Leitch can attest. [As I am told, an overcast sky is a photographer’s dream].

Following the ceremony, guests were ushered just a few short steps to the cocktail reception where warm, neutral tones, greenery and candlelight worked together to create a harmonious, inviting setting. Whispers of approval were heard among the guests as they took in the the many personal touches, including the custom-built centrepieces and dance floor! Front and centre to the tent was an oh-so-romantic head table [although not custom built]… OMG, Lavender floral nailed this, with cascading greenery, abundant candlelight and hints of blush roses, elevating a simple harvest table from plain to lavish and lush.

The clouds ultimately parted to allow for some gorgeous sunset photos and outdoor play, and guests danced the night away under strands of Edison lights illuminating the tent from above.

A sincere thank you to this sweet couple for trusting me [even from afar]. Giving me the opportunity to let my love for details shine and inspire in the planning and execution of their special day. There is no greater feeling than knowing you have truly been able to connect with your couple, and that triumph is validated when they walk into their reception space and say “it’s even better than we could have imagined”. Now for me, that is exactly what I strive to hear!