Love Actually is Elise’s favorite movie, and Jonas is a hopeless romantic. Because when he proposed, he went big with possibly the most heart-melting film reference ever.
Shares Elise, “A few days before Christmas, I came home from work and quickly received a phone call from Jonas asking me to meet him on our front steps. There he was waiting for me with handwritten signs: “Say it’s carol singers… because at Christmas you tell the truth… to me, you are perfect…” (if you know, you know). He got down on one knee, and how could I say no?!”
These two then planned a beautiful, intimate wedding at the Enoch Turner Schoolhouse, to which Elise wore her Lea-Ann Belter Abigail top and blush Eden skirt. Though their day was dreamy, the way it started was equally so because of its love-filled, everyday simplicity. Says Elise, “We woke up at home like any other morning. We sent the dog off to daycare, where she’d stay the night, and had our normal morning routine with our soon-to-be one-year-old son. Soon enough, things started getting busy. Jonas headed off to set up the venue and get ready with his groomsmen while I had hair and makeup done with my bridesmaids at home. Once I arrived at the venue, we had our “first look” photo shoot. I can honestly say I had the time of my life. I felt like a queen in my wedding dress, and this was our day. It was so important to Jonas and myself that we had fun on our day—this was it! Through the ceremony, dinner, speeches, and dancing, we cherished every second we spent with our greatest family and friends.”
Get more details about their day (and that fateful moment in front of the Eiffel Tower) from our wonderful bride below.
wedding gown: Lea-Ann Belter Abigail top and blush Eden skirt via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photographer: Definition Photography | full vendor list at bottom
How did the two of you meet?
“I was on vacation in Toronto, and a mutual friend tried to set us up. At the time, I was living in the UK (where I’m from) and waiting for my Canadian visa. We briefly met in a diner over lunch with friends, and later that day, Jonas asked me on a date. I was only on vacation for a week, but we managed to see each other most days. I went back to the UK, came back to visit a few months later, then Jonas came to visit me in London. We managed a long-distance relationship for 8 months before I finally got my visa and moved to Toronto permanently. We moved in together within a few months, and the rest is history.”
How did you know he was “the one”?
“We were in Paris, standing in front of the Eiffel Tower. Jonas took my hands and told me he didn’t like me anymore. In fact, he loved me. Of course, I knew I loved him well before this moment, but I can still remember how I felt then. It perfectly sums up Jonas’ cheeky but romantic personality, and the story suits our relationship so well!”
Tell us about your outfits! How did you choose your gown?
“I had it in the back of my mind that I wanted something lacy on top of my dress. When Vanessa suggested I try a two-piece top and skirt, I was happy to be open-minded and give it a go. The second I tried on my bridal look, I knew it was “the one.” It was one of the first pieces I tried on, but nothing compared to it, and the decision was easy.”
Why did you decide to get married where you did?
“Jonas had been to a wedding at the schoolhouse 10 years ago and suggested it as somewhere that might work. It was the first venue we viewed, and we were sold from the moment we walked in. The huge glass windows stole the show, and the building had great character that we loved.”
What was your first dance song?
“Harvest Moon by Neil Young.”
What was the most important aspect for you, in terms of planning your wedding?
“Being as organized as possible in advance of the day. I didn’t want any last-minute stresses that could have been avoided. I had a lot of family and friends flying in from the UK, so I wanted to be available to enjoy my time with them instead of spending time doing things that could have been prepared weeks in advance.”
Three words that best describe your partner:
“Elise on Jonas: Cheeky, sensitive, loving.
Jonas on Elise: Driven, strong, beautiful.”
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
“We’re waiting until winter, then plan on escaping to St. Lucia.”
Any tips for couples getting married?
“Remember to enjoy the day! It only happens once, so appreciate every possible moment.”
Elise + Jonas’ Enock Turner Schoolhouse Wedding Vendors
wedding gown: Lea-Ann Belter Abigail top and blush Eden skirt via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photographer: Definition Photography | venue: Enoch Turner Schoolhouse | florals: Kingston Road Flower Market | hair: Manzer Hair Studio | groom’s suit: Moores
