Mary Jean and Hwan’s wedding was the first of my 2017 season. It took place on a Tuesday in January and was witnessed by an exclusive audience of 10 guests.
Everything about their day seemed magical in so many ways. After months of not very impressive winter weather, there was suddenly a 12-hour period of the most beautiful fluffy snow that started Tuesday morning and ended late Tuesday night. By Wednesday morning there was no evidence of the magic that we experienced that day.

The location, McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinberg, was the perfect venue to host this intimate wedding. The art collection represents some of our country’s greatest artists whose work often depicts the diverse Canadian landscapes. It seemed so fitting to have the backdrop of the ceremony be as beautiful and inherently Canadian as the art itself.

Another cultural aspect of the day was the celebration of Hwan’s Korean heritage. I have photographed Korean weddings before but hadn’t experienced the ornate set-up, costume or ritual that MJ and Hwan partook in. From the elaborate outfits to the bride and groom’s parents tossing dates into a cloth – which is supposed to predict the amount of children the couple will have – the ceremony was sacred and special.

Even with a dance floor consisting of just 12 people, they still managed to dance up a storm well into the night.

Vendors
Officiant: Martin Firth
Venue: McMichael Canadian Art Collection
Hair and Makeup: Emma Sherman
Caterer: Aura by Cashew and Clive
Bridal Gown: Lowon Pope – Seamstress: Naimie Delaney
Groom’s Attire: Suit Supply
Shoes: Browns
Florist: Coriander Girl (Amira)
Rings: Anice Jewellery (Brittany)
Korean Ceremony: Seshil Hanbok (provided attire, decor and officiant)