Alex and Lena were an unexpected start to my summer season this year. (Alex inquired with me on a Tuesday for his Thursday wedding!) We could not have asked for more beautiful weather for their intimate evening wedding in the drawing room at Hycroft Manor.

Lena’s stunning lace fit and flare dress was embellished with flowers and paired beautifully with her chic pink and white rose bouquet. Alex’s pink rose and baby’s breath boutonniere complimented his purple tie and pocket square. The evening was short and sweet, with a champagne toast with their family and friends in anticipation of their Russian House Restaurant reception the next evening.

Big thanks to my second shooter for the evening, Katie!

The following evening, they gathered for their reception at the Russian House Restaurant in Coquitlam. The majority of the reception was in Russian, which made for quite an adventure trying to follow along!

Alex and Lena included so many traditions in their reception and kept their guests laughing, clapping, chanting, and dancing all evening. My favourite tradition involved all the women at the reception standing in a line with candles and whispering words of wisdom in Lena’s ear. Lena would then light their candle and they formed a circle of support around her. It was beautiful to witness, and the photos are my favourite from both days.

Thank you to my lovely second shooter for the evening, Susie!