The story of this absolutely lovely Toronto, Canada wedding is wonderful. Steph and Josh wanted a destination Miami wedding, and that is what we were hired for. Lots of back and forth with Stephanie’s mom (a friend of the mother of another bride we had previously photographed in the Hamptons), who communicated the couple’s sudden fears of traveling to Florida with the Zikka Virus alive and well. She would update us every so often and finally they determined that it was just not worth the risk—and cancelled the Miami wedding. Undeterred, they replanned the whole affair in their hometown of Toronto, and kept us on the books to photograph what turned into their “Miami in February in Toronto” celebrations.
Since the couple had to ditch Miami, their experienced and savvy coordinator Melissa Baum expertly brought Miami to them. They chose 99 Sudbury for their minimalist and chic wedding and reception venue, which Melissa transformed into a tropical retreat. Frank Rea helped bring their vision to life with his bright floral design, starring hundreds of fuschia orchids, succulents, and palm fronds. He kept the roots on the orchid plants and hung them from palms, driftwood, and giant sand-filled vases. The team brought in long, low couches and high counter tables with stools, breaking from traditional seating to create a South Beach late-night club vibe.
Even more stunning was Stephanie in her Elizabeth Fillmore hammered satin gown. It fit her perfectly, simple and glorious, bringing out her lovely olive complexion and bright eyes. She wore simple earrings and bracelet, Jimmy Choos, and had the prettiest little bouquet of winter fuschias. An heirloom fur stole gave her some warmth on the chilly day. She added a delicate long, hand-painted veil for the ceremony. This girl positively glowed.
Location: Toronto, Canada
Season: Winter
Colors: Tropical!
Our favorite memories: Watching how this particular group celebrated the traditional Jewish wedding elements was wonderful. Josh & Stephanie were married under a chuppah with the names and wedding dates of family and friends lovingly and painstakingly embroidered on it by family members. Their names will be added now. The Hora was so fun! I have never seen a pyramid of, like, 15 men before, or the bride thrown and tossed down a row of people clasping hands, but I saw it at this wedding. Later in the night we were treated to a Mezinka. Stephanie and Josh were both the youngest children in their families and it brought tears to my eyes watching their parents crowned and honored with hugs and kisses by every wedding guest.