Let’s change things up and head south for a destination wedding shared by the sweet Leslie Brown Photography. Where? I’m pretty sure you can guess from the top image that it was shot in one of my favorite vacation spots, VEGAS! Raeleen & Jeremy’s sunset ceremony and reception was held at The Grove. They opted to have a ‘first look’ session which is increasingly more common nowadays. Here’s what the bride had to say about her choice to see her groom before the ceremony…

Jeremy & I decided to have an evening wedding ceremony followed by the reception. With no time in between the ceremony & reception for photos, Leslie suggested a ‘First Look’ session. I was intrigued and immediately searched online for what these sessions were all about. I got chills just looking at some of the photos and knew that this was what I wanted to do.

When the day came, I wasn’t nervous at all… until I was hidden around the corner from my soon-to-be husband. Once Jeremy was placed facing away from me, I started the walk towards him and a wave of emotions came over me. I couldn’t believe this day was finally here and I would be marrying the man of my dreams and my best friend. I tapped him on the arm, he turned and looked at me with a look that made me feel like the most beautiful girl on earth. Even though we were surrounded by people, I felt as though we were the only two people there. At that moment, I felt the closest with Jeremy that I’ve ever felt before.

To all soon-to-be brides out there, you should definitely consider having this type of photo session before your ceremony. It allows for you & your groom to connect emotionally and savor the moment before getting caught up in the rest of the day’s events. It is such an intimate moment that I promise you will never forget.

The first look…

The ceremony at sunset.

Leslie actually shoots in Northern Alberta (specifically Fort McMurray), but it goes to show how easy it is to book your photographer and take them along for the trip! Congrats Raeleen & Jeremy.

{images: Leslie Brown Photography}

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Even though I consider myself a modern kind of girl, lately I’ve found myself drawn towards vintage details, especially when it comes to weddings. So it’s really fitting that I get to share a ‘vintage’ engagement shoot from Julia Betemps Photography with you today. Taken in Red Deer, Alberta, Julia captured the love between Shaun (her brother) and Ashlee in a way that is oh-so-sweet and one in which the clothing had a real significance. Says Julia:

I knew right away I had to have this hat for the photos! I have a few pictures of my grandma and grandpa from before they were married and he was wearing a hat like this (this one was his too but I don’t think it’s the original from their photos). When our grandpa passed away my grandma gave us each one of his button up plaid shirts. I had mine hanging in the closet so I grabbed it out for this shoot and I am so glad I did. I think it adds the perfect touch to some of these photos.

Thanks Julia! Check out her blog for more Red Deer love.

{images: Julia Betemps Photography}

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I’m a big fan of the Nicole Miller bridal collections and to no surprise, I absolutely LOVE the new Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Not only are these dresses more affordable, but they’re simple, understated and SO perfect for the modern bride.

{images: Nicole Miller}

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