After meeting while living in the same residences at Western University, Lauren and Ian’s relationship arced in a slow burn. When we asked Lauren how she knew Ian was the right partner, her answer was moving in its simplicity. “There was no specific moment that I remember thinking he was “the one.” Our relationship started when we were 18/19 and developed slowly. Ian was always kind and open to communication. We grew together and supported each other through many of our life stages. We are very similar people and our friendship grew as our love did.” That last part just gets us!
Fast-forward to a sweet proposal while on a hike, and Lauren and Ian were engaged. Like so many of our couples, they set about planning a wedding…and then Covid entered the chat.
“Our wedding was in September 2020, so when COVID hit we had to make the decision to reschedule or change our original plan. In May, we decided to keep our original date and reduce our guest list to immediate family and our best friends. We ended up with 17 people total, down from approximately 170. We kept our vendors such as photographers, videographers, catering, hair, and makeup. We initially planned to throw a small wedding and have a bigger party when it was safe to do so, however, after our wedding we felt the day was perfect and as of right now we have no plans to throw the big party. Our intimate wedding was much more “us” and we wouldn’t change a thing.”
More about their day from Lauren below, who wore a custom Lea-Ann Belter with an amazing, detachable train that inspired the creation of our new Teegan gown!
How did you guys get engaged?
“We were on a trip to my hometown (Kenora, ON) to see friends. After spending the day pretending to be tourists, we went on a hike with my best friend and her girlfriend (who ended up taking pictures/filming the proposal). When we got to an area with a beautiful view, Ian got down on one knee! However, in the middle of his speech, I yelled, “Look, a deer!” when I saw one across the way. He still teases me for that one! Oops.”
wedding dress: custom gown via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photography: Two K Photography | full vendor list at bottom
How did you choose your gown?
“I tried on dresses with two of my sisters-in-law, my mom, and mother-in-law. I had everyone pull as many dresses as they wanted, I was willing to try on anything. The dress I ended up choosing was actually a custom one. Vanessa at the store pulled the base dress off of a display model for me to try on (I wouldn’t have picked it myself but I am so glad she did!). It was almost perfect—I just wanted a bit more of a skirt! Vanessa pulled a few options and told me it was no problem to add one, and then it was perfect! She told me that a dress in the new collection was inspired by mine!”
What was your first dance song?
“‘Conversations in the Dark’ by John Legend (we decided on it the weekend before our wedding).”
One detail you couldn’t live without?
“Having a special moment with my parents before walking down the aisle. I am so happy to have these memories and it resulted in some beautiful pictures.”
Three words that best describe Ian:
“He’s kind, laid back, and funny.”
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
“We did not go on one! We have plans to go on a nice trip once COVID has settled down, whether that be next year or in a couple years. We are in no rush. We may plan a mini-moon in the new year once COVID numbers drop again. There are some beautiful and scenic places to go in Ontario.”
Any advice for future brides/grooms?
“Remember what matters most. It isn’t about throwing the biggest party or having the fanciest shoes. Spending the day with just our closest friends and family reminded me that the day is about sharing your love and joy with those that love you, too.
Don’t follow traditions just because they are tradition. Do what you want—it is your day. Ian and I spent the morning with each other and didn’t spend time apart until hair and makeup were started. We didn’t have a cake (we had my favourite, crème brulee!), we didn’t do a bouquet/garter toss, etc.
If you are going to splurge on anything, splurge on food and flowers (if those are important to you, of course). People will remember the food and my flowers were absolutely gorgeous. I pressed/dried some of my flowers to frame as a memory.”
wedding dress: custom gown via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photography: Two K Photography | florals: Wandaful Flowers | hair: Blush Bridal | makeup: Make Me Beautiful | officiant: Simcoe Weddings | catering: Cravings Fine Food | videographer: Sun Moon Media
