A love of nature, hiking, and the tranquility of Ontario’s lake inspired Kathleen and Jeff’s wedding day at a Muskoka cottage. Their love story began with an introduction on OkCupid, and like a fine wine (or bourbon) got better and fuller over time.
Shares our lovely bride, “I knew Jeff was the “one” because as time went on, and our lives experienced ups and downs, he was always willing to work on himself and our relationship. He “showed up” as they say. He wasn’t afraid to tell me when he thought I was responsible for something but always (well, almost always) in a kind way. I realized that this was how a loving relationship felt, this is how a man treats a woman when they respect and adore you. It took a while for us to get there, and I’m thrilled that we did.”
Similarly, Jeff’s realization was the culmination of several moments. “Kathleen’s beautiful eyes saw me for what I was when we met, and her incredible heart helped me grow into what I am today.”
On their wedding day, these two included their sweet pup, Tucker (who wore a bowtie), and they exchanged vows before a birch tree altar Kathleen made. In other words, everything was perfect.
Read on for more of their story and how Kathleen found her Lea-Ann Belter gown!
wedding dress: custom Lea-Ann Belter gown via the flagship Toronto bridal shop | photographer: Definition Photography
How did you two get engaged?
“Jeff proposed on Christmas morning. He knows I love Amaretto liqueur, and he taped the ring box to the top of the bottle and brought me coffee in bed. I didn’t notice at first. It was the best Christmas morning!”
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
“Kathleen: That who I am is more than enough.
Jeff: Kathleen has taught me the value of an authentic apology. I can make a mistake, and our relationship doesn’t have to suffer.”
What is your favorite thing about each other?
“Kathleen: Besides how he looks at me? How well he listens to anyone that he is having a conversation with.
Jeff: My favourite thing about Kathleen is her tenacity. She does not give up and I am grateful for it!”
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
“We had a sand ceremony. We both love nature, and we brought sand from different regions that symbolized our lives and families.”
Tell us about your outfits! How did you choose your gown?
“Kathleen: I had a relationship with the Lea-Ann Belter store front, being the thoroughfare to DVP, downtown, etc. I’ve always been an East End girl and have driven by the store front all my life, admiring the dresses. So, once I got engaged, I visited two bridal shops. The first one was fun, but I felt pressured to decide on the same day. That did not feel good.
I visited Vanessa at the Lea-Ann Belter studio and told her my vision and what I wanted to minimize about my body. I did resist a strapless but, in the end, it looked the best. My friend came with me, and it ended up that Dianne that chose my dress and insisted I try it on. Vanessa was amazing. I went home that night and kept thinking about the strapless and went back again. My decision had been made. I LOVE my dress. Vanessa made me feel calm and helped me to make fashion decisions when I didn’t know which way to turn. Everything is so pretty! It can get overwhelming quickly. Vanessa played a huge role, one I’ll hold dear to my heart.”
Tell us about your day!
“I loved including our dog, Tucker, into the ceremony. He walked me down the aisle with his adorable bow tie. I loved the birch tree altar I made with the sun shining through the fabric as Jeff and I were at the altar. I loved our flowers! Jessy nailed it.”
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
“That it didn’t feel stressful.”
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
“We are planning a family getaway to Jamaica over New Year’s.”
Any tips for couples getting married?
“Have a vision and be flexible with it. It’s about what you as a couple want, not what you think others want.”
Kathleen + Jeff’s Lake Ontario Wedding Vendors
wedding dress: custom Lea-Ann Belter gown via the flagship Toronto bridal shop | photographer: Definition Photography | florals: Jessy Beck Floral Design | catering: Georgian Shores Catering | rings: Engage Studio | hair+ makeup: Glitz Gals Makeup and Hair | jewelry: Olive and Piper Jewelry, Linjer Jewelry | groom’s suit: Banana Republic Men’s | officiant: Bunny Murphy
