The connection Jennifer and Leo share runs as deep as the one with their farm-to-table wedding. These two were married on Jennifer’s parents’ farm. Shares Jennifer, “We planned it to be like a farm-to-table dinner party with a band with a horn section. We tried to keep it simple with an exceptional chef using seasonal food from the farm, and the protein was from the farm, flowers grown in the garden, and lots of champagne. Our wedding gift was also special—we made maple syrup that year and bottled and labeled it for everyone.”
Jennifer’s gown was locally grown, too! After shopping all over Toronto, she visited us at our flagship bridal boutique. “I went to the usual places in Toronto and tried on all the different dresses as I didn’t know what would look good. I fell in love with a simple dress with a high neck, but a very low back and my mom’s response was, “Won’t your kidneys be cold?” so that was the end of low backs for me. I admire my mom more than anyone; she has fantastic style, and I had a few girlfriends get their dresses at Lea-Ann Belter. I came in and tried a few different types and so much appreciated Vanessa’s curated selection for me and was able to find my dress which I am obsessed with! To this day, it is my favourite outfit.”
Leo and his groomsmen wore something special, too! “My husband and his groomsmen wore Lululemon. I wanted them to be comfy and was a bit stressed they wouldn’t match if they were renting, so I just took care of it all, and they wore New Venture white button-down and commission pants in black! I am confident all the boys have already worn one or both pieces again!”
More about their love story and day from our thoughtful bride below.
wedding gown: Lea-Ann Belter Dinah via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photographer: Frances Beatty Photography | scroll down for the full vendor list
How did you know Leo was “the one”?
“I knew he was the one when I knew he was a better person than me, which I shared with him in my vows.”
How did you two get engaged?
“Leo proposed to me last October in the middle of the lake his lodge is on in an Algonquin Special Canoe he purchased after the summer we met, and it was one I had painted.”
Why did you decide to get married where you did?
“Honestly, my parents offered the farm (private property) and thought, why not! We were going to just go to city hall but knew our friends and family would enjoy a farm-to-table experience at the farm!”
What was your first dance song?
“It was ‘Precious Love,’ by James Morrison, but Leo missed it the first time round as he was cleaning the sword after cutting our cake. Our song is ‘Beautiful Crazy,’ which Leo has sung to me many times.”
One detail you couldn’t live without?
“Leo being by my side. Is that a trick question? Or my bridal party—MOHs flew from Dawson City and others from Paris. They were exceptional at crisis management on the day as my parents were a bit stressed having 100 strangers over to their place and examining the garden.”
What was the most important aspect for you in terms of planning your wedding?
“I wanted all our friends there, a band with a horn section, and I spent hours on the table seating chart to ensure everyone had a great time!”
What was the funniest moment of your day?
“There are two. 1. One of my MOHs read Dr. Seuss’s ‘Oh the Places You’ll Go’ but adapted it for us. 2. My sister and MC gave me a snack pack of my favourite Miss Vickie’s chips and a pair of blue sunglasses she stole during a night out in Edinburgh.”
What was your something old, new, borrowed, and blue?
“I borrowed my mom’s sapphire and diamond earrings and bracelet that I have always admired, which was also blue, and I bought myself new hot pink shoes!”
Three words that best describe your partner:
“A Viking, kind and compassionate.”
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
“We took the Monday offer after our wedding…does that count? We hope to go to Africa one day.”
Any tips for couples getting married?
“Plan a mini honeymoon after the wedding, and of course, try on all the dresses but get your gown at Lea-Ann Belter with Vanessa!”
Jennifer + Leo’s Farm-to-Table Wedding Vendors
wedding gown: Lea-Ann Belter Dinah via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photographer: Frances Beatty Photography | planner: Jane Suh Weddings & Events | florals: Jennifer’s family farm | chef: Chef Ryan Lister | hair + makeup: Emily from Gee Beauty | music: SlyFox Cover Band
