A couple weeks ago, Jen and Dennis invited me out to their home in Cobden to photograph them and their family.  It's not often I get a chance to meander through the Ottawa valley but after this experience, I think I'll be heading out more often.  The scenery is gorgeous with it's rolling hills, swaying grass and rustic buildings.  Throw in a beautiful family and an old vintage VW Beetle and you have the makings of sweet photo session.

Jen and Dennis, thanks for showing me around your neck of the woods and you're right, life is definitely better by the lake!  Congrats to you both as you tie the knot, we wish you lots and lots of married bliss!

Hugs,
Sam.

The love affair started years ago.  That is, my love affair with this old motel not too far from my home.  It's the kind of place where lonely travelers would crash for the night, or down and out country band would make it's last stand. What a perfect spot for a photo shoot!  It took 3 years to find our perfect couple for this location but when Vanessa and Eli walked through our door, we knew our wait was over.

But a funny thing happened.  When the shoot was over and I gazed at the collection of images we had created that afternoon, I realized that this location, with it's vintage paint, and charming retro character, became just that: the location.  All my visions or grungy moodiness and artistic lines faded as I was struck by the love and tenderness of the two people in front of me.

Vanessa and Eli, thanks for showing me how love can outshine even the most salmon walls.  You guys are beautiful and I'm so looking forward to photographing you on your wedding!

Hugs,
Sam.

We love engagement sessions that are filled with LOVE and this one we had to share!  Ritika came down from Toronto to meet Naveen for their shoot and it's a well traveled route for them during their long distance relationship.  She is finishing up dentistry school while he works full time.  Oftentimes, their weekends spent together consisted of her studying for grueling exams while he would keep her company.  They are such a warm and loving couple whom we are so privileged to know.  We love how playful and yet intimate they are.  So in love.
 

R&N:  You two are rockstars in our books! Thank you so much for making our job look so easy! :)  We both had such a good time just hanging out with you two.  You are beautiful inside and out and we are so thankful to call you friends.  Wishing you both a lifetime of love...

Hugs,
Sam and Mary
xox

Engagement sessions are best done several months before your wedding. We like that it allows you to choose a different season than your wedding to give you more variety in your images. Doing your engagement session early also allows you to focus on your wedding plans closer to your date. Choose a location that expresses your personality and sense of style. It's a great chance to get creative and most of all, have some fun!

We've always wanted to shoot a session in an old junk yard. So, when Krista and Steven came to us looking for something unique for their engagement session, we knew they'd be perfect for this! Besides being a super sweet couple, what struck us about them was their love for life, travel and adventure. Having reached their dream of traveling to every continent, we can't wait to see what's in store for them next!

Krista and Steven just recently tied the knot at the lovely Juniper Kitchen and Wine Bar. Here are a few of the many images we love from their engagement session (stay tuned for their wedding images!).

K&S, you guys are awesome! If I ever need someone to fix my jeep, I'll give Steven a shout. ;)

Hugs,
Sam and Mary

Joanne had her undergrad in Economics & Biology.  Lawrence finished up his MBA.  They met while he was volunteering during his business school internship for a nonprofit in Singapore where she was also an intern.  They both ended up falling in love, living and working in the New York City/New Jersey area.  And that was the beginning. 

She went back to Singapore where her family is and he later moved to Dallas, Texas, continuing their relationship via email and phone calls.  Despite the many miles and countries apart, it was a love worth fighting for.  Their hearts just knew and the hard work paid off! :)  Seldom do we celebrate the courageous act that it takes to risk, uproot and start anew - but Sam and I truly admire this about them.

Not only that, we love their generous and warm hearts - always blessing and encouraging those around them.  We just happen to be that lucky! :) 

Their destination wedding was held at the beautiful Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and we were fortunate to also capture their pre-wedding session.  We love destination sessions that allows us to draw from a fresh creative experience and this one was no exception.