Not every love story begins with fireworks—sometimes, it starts with a random photo and an unexpected photobomb. We met as worship leaders at church, became best friends, and over the years, journeyed through so many seasons of life together. One year, during a visit to the Christmas Market at Toronto’s Distillery District with our friends, I was posing for a solo photo near El Catrin… and Praise accidentally walked right into the frame.
I remember laughing and telling him, “You totally ruined it!” But now? That unplanned shot has become one of my all-time favourites.
On our wedding day, we went back to that exact same spot for a portrait—only this time, I was in a white dress, and Praise was in a suit, wrapping me in the sweetest, most joy-filled hug from behind. We were absolutely beaming. It felt like the most beautiful full-circle moment—like God had been writing our story all along. Now, that recreated photo sits beside the original, and every time I see them side by side, I’m reminded of His faithfulness and how far we’ve come together.
As a photographer, I’ve captured so many love stories—but getting to capture our own felt incredibly surreal. Our micro wedding at Cluny Bistro was our first of two wedding celebrations that year (read about our Fall Wedding here), and honestly, it was everything we’d hoped for and more!
The morning started with a snowstorm, but we were way too excited to care. We were just so ready and excited to get married!
Our ceremony took place at Cluny Bistro, tucked right in the heart of the Distillery District. We’d always said we wanted to go there with someone special, even back when we were both single. So saying our vows there felt like a dream! The space was beautiful and romantic, with cozy lighting and gorgeous details that made the whole day feel extra special. (Also we loved the food!)
What made it even more special was being surrounded by our closest friends and family. The people who had prayed with us, cried with us, celebrated us, and walked alongside us through every twist and turn of our story. We led worship for our own intimate ceremony (just like how we first met!), and it felt so personal, spirit-filled, and deeply meaningful. There was such a sweet sense of God's presence in the room. The brunch reception that followed was full of joy, laughter, heartfelt speeches, and more than a few happy tears.
And that photobomb from years ago? It’s now part of the cutest visual timeline of our love story. One that still makes me smile every time I see it.
If you’re dreaming of a heartfelt Toronto micro wedding or elopement, filled with genuine candid moments, I’d love to help you tell your story through photos that feel like you!
Venue: Cluny Distillery, El Catrin, Distillery District
Photography: Precious Images, Jax Fernandez
Decor: Crystal Charms Decor
Cake: LGA Cakes and Bakes
Officiant: Pastor Sam Aragones
Hair: Styled by Miss Trish
Make-up: Elizabeth K Beauty
Florals: Lavender Blooms Toronto
Rings: Fair Trade Jewellery Co.
Sounds: Kevin Kebyo
Suit: Indochino Weddings
Hotel: Ritz-Carlton Toronto
MC: Genesis Anne Ramos, Peter John Tondo
Nails: Elite Beauty Bar Burlington
