It’s no secret that the pandemic has caused A LOT of questions marks and uncertainty; especially for couples planning such big events as their wedding days.  This was the case with our sweet couple, Neil and Elyse, who never dreamed their wedding plans would be affected by a global pandemic! 

 After getting engaged in the spring of 2019, they went to work to plan their special day at the beautiful and historic, Toronto Golf Club.  The stunning Clubhouse, the natural surroundings, the Club’s renowned chef and both the indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception locations made it the perfect choice for Elyse and Neil’s garden party-inspired wedding day.  Their original plans included a beautiful ceremony under the big maple tree and dinner for over 100 guests in the Clubhouse’s dining room.  As Canada began to face serious lockdown measures in March, it became clearer and clearer that it most likely wouldn’t be possible to celebrate their May wedding.  The number of cases was rising very quickly in the Toronto area and the authorities had to set very strict measures for gatherings.  

They moved their wedding to September with the hope that by the end of summer the situation would improve.  As the province began entering the final stage of opening towards the end of August, Elyse and Neil decided that they were going to go ahead even if it meant having a different- looking wedding day than what they had originally planned. They went to work with the club’s manager to plan their ceremony and cocktail party for 70 guests (the regulations in the region at that time stated 100 people or less were permitted at an outdoor event).  In order to ensure the safety of all attendees, the Club prescreened all guests according to Health Canada’s guidelines.

Elyse’s beautiful wedding palette of soft hues of blush and white set the tone for their gorgeous day. Included in her bridal details were several precious family heirlooms which had been passed down through the women in her family for generations; including delicate earrings, an intricate family ring and a lace handkerchief. Neil surprised Elyse with a beautiful wedding day gift, personalizing it with her initials.

As Elyse arrived to the Club, Neil patiently awaited his bride for their first look. The 11th hole was a stunning location, with clear sight lines of the gorgeous Clubhouse!

One of the most special moments of the day was right after Neil and Elyse’s first look.  They chose to privately read their vows to each other.  Their expressions of commitment, love and respect for one another had us close to tears by the end of their vows!

Although they had to sacrifice having all of their invitees present, they made sure that all their friends could login via Zoom to be a part of their special day.  Elyse’s mom and brother walked with Elyse and and Neil’s sweet dog, Meeka, down the aisle who had her own special flower crown around her collar!  Elyse then had an emotional walk with her dad down the aisle.  Technical difficulties with the music made for such a memorable walk as all the guests all chimed in and began humming, ‘Here Comes the Bride’ as Elyse made her way to her groom. 

 The ceremony, officiated by a close family friend, included a few personal comments and then the meaningful words of, ‘I Do’!! 

From the ceremony, the couple welcomed their guests to a garden-inspired sit-down cocktail party on the lawn.  Tables were set apart according to the government’s required distance standards and guests were served their drinks and appetizers at their tables to avoid unnecessary movement between social bubbles.

The guests then heard from both parents and Elyse’s sister (MOH) and Neil’s brother (Best Man) and let us tell you, there were more than a few tears during the speeches!  Such gracious words and thoughts to express the support and love surrounding this couple despite a challenging 2020. 

As the sun was gently setting on the horizon, we stole Elyse and Neil away to take advantage of a quiet moment with the soft evening light. And in true celebratory fashion, they finished off with a twirl!

After saying goodbye to their guests, the newlyweds continued the celebrations with an intimate dinner in the Clubhouse with their immediate families.  During dinner, Elyse shared a very emotional first dance with her dad on the Club’s terrace as her sweet mama looked on.

As the very happy evening came to an end, their families surrounded the couple with love and a final celebratory sparkler cheer which lit up the dark sky.

Support has been so important this year for so many reasons.  Documenting Elyse and Neil’s support system, including their family and friends, and the love and encouragement they share was such an honour.  As with so many couples this year, plans had to adapt and change for them; however, we cannot think of how their day could have been any more joyous.  It left our hearts full!!

Venue: Toronto Golf Club || Florals: Toronto Golf Club || Wedding Dress: Truvelle at Sash and Bustle || Hair: Leslie Sarantos || Makeup: Alison Henthorn || Hair Vine: ZTTOC Wedding Hair Accessories || Groom’s Attire: Banana Republic and Hudson Bay Company