A vibrant day
If you were to imagine what the perfect Fall day looks like, I would tell you to think about October 3rd 2026. The colours were starting to change, the sun was shining in a blue, cloudless sky. The breeze was soft but the sun rays kept you warm.
Just by the Richelieu river, in the beautiful village of Saint-Antoine-sur-Richelieu, a very special day was taking place. The wedding of Jillian and Jack. One I had been waiting for what felt like forever.
The first time we met in person was for their engagement session. After they officially booked their wedding at Le Château Saint-Antoine, they celebrated at a cantine called La Fringale Tropicale. Since this place had special meaning for them, we decided to have their engagement session there. I remember nervously asking Jillian if she would mind if I put her engagement ring in a steamed hotdog. To which she replied "Hell ya, that's the dream". I instantly knew we would get along.
Fast forward to their wedding day. My last one of 2026 and it truly felt like my season got wrapped up with bow AND a cherry on top. What do you mean, I get to work at my favourite venue with incredible people and capture precious memories for a wonderful couple? Exactly what my dreams are made of.
The morning was a mix of excitement and chill vibes. Our beautiful bride had her bombshell hair up in rolls when I arrived and they were just about to start her makeup. My second shooter was headed to the groom's location while I got busy with a flat lay of Jillian's accessories for details shots. I hung her dress in a window of the house, from which you can see the Château. It's one of my favourite views and I always make sure to capture a glimpse of it.
Her selection of shoes instantly caught my eye. One pair was a light blue, my favourite shade. The other was a chunky platform covered in jewels and pearls. As if I needed more convincing about how cool she is.
10 minutes down the road, Jack was with his groomsmen, getting dressed and almost ready for his first look.
When we were discussing their timeline, I had mentioned that the best thing they can do and account for a lot of buffer time. That way, if things were running behind, it wouldn't affect their day and they wouldn't have to rush.
As it happens with most weddings, we did get slightly delayed. But it didn't matter, because we had so much loose time that we carried on normally. They got to have the most precious first look, followed by their private vows. Fully present and uninterrupted.
Their bridal session unfolded like a dream. As some may know by now, I am a sucker for a blue sky and harsh sun. While some may feel intimidated by such contrasting elements, I thrive on the challenge. There is no better scenario to play with dramatic shadows and create incredibly artistic images. And it's the perfect time to play with direct flash, one of my current favourite trends!
We wrapped up the photo session with bridal parties and family portraits at the front of Le Château. And just like the rest of the day so far, everything went very smoothly.
The ceremony space attached to the Pommery reception space at Le Château Saint-Antoine is truly spectacular. With the timeless gazebo, impressive gardens and covered roof, it makes for the perfect outdoor area, even if a rainy day is expected.
Some of the flowers for the arrangements were grown and arranged by the bride's mom. If that isn't a labour of love, then I don't know what is. The sun shining onto them made it all look so warm and whimsical.
Following a few extra film portraits of the bride and groom, we then joined cocktail hour inside the Château. Because they had decided on doing a first look, they got to enjoy the company of their guests right after getting married. I fin'd it's one of the best times to get candid photos and capture the vibe of the evening.
Jill & Jack had spared no detail. From a temporary tattoo bar, to the Polaroid Guestbook and the collection of photos and fun signs in various places, the space felt like stepping into their world and truly discovering who they are.
As the sun was slowly fading, we decided to step out and catch a couple extra photos for one last hurrah. We must have looked like we were having a great time because many guests decided to also step out and take photos with the last of the golden light.
And just like that, we all got back inside with no bells and whistles. This is a couple that didn't want to have the attention on them all day. They simply wanted to have a beautiful day surrounded by the people they love.
The rest of the evening was composed of various speeches, a delicious diner, a dress change, the cutting of the cake and a packed dancefloor. And it could not have been more perfect.
If you'd like to see more of Jill & Jack's wedding day, click the button below to discover a stripped down version of their full gallery.
You'd like to inquire to have me document your wedding day? I offer digital and film photography and travel all around Canada. It'll be my pleasure to hear about your vision!
