Justine + Ian's Classy Fairmont Hotel Wedding
All images by Sharon Litchfield.
Guys, this wedding was a dream. Justine and Ian's wedding at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald was every bit as fun as it was stylish... and that's saying something!
Part of the reason that this wedding was so awesome was the incredible team of vendors that brought the vision to life. As always, working with the team at Jennifer Bergman Weddings ensured that everything went smoothly. And when it comes to looking amazing - the cocktail hour lounge was designed by Cory Christopher and could not have been any classier. It was perfect.
Photography: Sharon Litchfield
Justine's hair: Holly at MUD
Bridesmaids' hair: Chantelle Smegal Hair
Makeup: Janna at Behind the Blush
Coordination: Jennifer Bergman Weddings
Video: Arrow Films
Invitations: Uppercase Press
Dress: Jenny Packham
Shoes: Rachel Simpson
Veil: Delica Bridal
Robes: Le Rose
Floral Design + Decor: Cory Christopher
Venue: Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
When I first heard from Justine, she told me that they'd need a diverse selection of music for their wedding: "think - small town Ukrainians meet the big city!" That sounded like an aesthetic that I was pretty familiar with...
The cocktail hour was contained in the foyer of the Empire Ballroom, which was transformed into a classy lounge area filled wth vintage accoutrements and flowers. The couple had asked for the cocktail music to be exclusively jazz, particularly the kind that leans towards New Orleans style. Of course, we included selections like Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, with a smattering of other artists.
Next, the party moved into the Empire Ballroom, and the jazz followed the crowd into the next room. Once everyone had found their seats, it was time for the newlyweds to enter the room.
Grand entrance: I Need Never Get Old - Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats
Unsurprisingly, the meal from the Fairmont was to die for. After some heartfelt speeches and toasts, Justine and Ian cut the cake to "That's How Strong My Love Is" by Otis Redding.
First Dance: I Do Not Love You - Ron Pope
Justine shared a dance with her grandfather alongside Ian and his mom. The song was Stand By Me by Ben E. King, and halfway through the song, we invited all of their guests to join in and share the dance floor with them.
Luckily for me, Justine and Ian knew their crowd well and requested that I start the dance off with "old school" country by artists like Garth Brooks, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Randy Travis and the like, as well as a few Ukrainian Polkas. Of course, once the dance floor was 'warmed up' with the older music, we'd transition into new and classic top 40 and make room for requests, which I was assured would include some 90s hip-hop and rap.
They couldn't have been more right - the classic country was a hit with both the older and younger crowd, and when we moved on to top 40 and hip-hop, the dance floor lit up.
Now, on to the rest of the photos of the day! You'll notice I'm sharing more images than usual... I can't help it! I'm just in love with these amazing photos by Sharon Litchfield. Enjoy!
