As a third-generation Canadian, I’m about as whitebread as you can get. So whenever I get the chance to experience a culture completely different from my own – I’m there! It’s one of things that makes being a wedding photographer pretty great – all the unique customs I get to observe when my clients honour the marriage traditions of their heritage. Particularly with Alia and Abid’s wedding, who’s entire day was a mix of old and new traditions – it’s nice to see couples pay homage to their past while still staying true to their own sense of style.
I won’t lie – I’m a bit envious of this wedding. Alia in her incredible violet and cream Muslim wedding dress that somehow looked so modern on her. Abid sporting Tom’s with his traditional sherwani dress. Their ceremony was held at the Berkeley Church, which in my opinion, is one of the most versatile and interesting places to get married in Toronto. After saying their vows, having some lunch and changing into their Western-style wedding clothes, Abid and Alia met up with their friends at Airship in the Distillery District where the real party began. With such a busy day, I managed to squeeze in a few minutes here and there of solo time with Alia and Abid. They’re shy when it comes to the camera, particularly with posed shots. They wanted a natural look to their photos, and so mainly I left them alone, while they did whatever came naturally to them. I can’t tell you how refreshing this was to take a step back and let go and really shoot with a candid eye. And while they’re not the kind of couple into parading their love to their world; you can tell that they genuinely adore each other. Alia and Abid: I’m so honoured to have photographed your lovely wedding. I wish you well and a long and happy life together.
XOXO Lee
Last but definitely not least, my good chum and rockin’ assistant Robyn Chew was an epic help this day. You rock my world, Sweet Cheeks! XO
Just speechless. This is absolutely amazing!