Wedding Vendors
Venue - The Omni King Edward Hotel
Event Planner - Day of Wedding Coordinato
Officiant - Rosemary Parentela by Enduring Promises
Wedding Dress - The Modern Bride - Dress by Vera Wang Couture
Suit - Surmensur
Makeup and Hair - Victoria Barrett
Flowers and Decor - Callia Flowers
DJ - Sound By Science
Video - Origin Weddings
King Edward Hotel Wedding — A Bold, Black Dress Love Story in Downtown Toronto
From the moment Shannon and James stepped in front of my camera for their sunset engagement session in Collingwood, I knew — this wasn’t going to be your average wedding couple. Their vibe? Intentional. Artistic. Effortless. Every choice they made during that shoot told a story — the location, the timing, the perfectly styled outfits, and most importantly, the connection between them. We had so much fun together that evening, and I remember thinking, If this is the engagement… the wedding is going to be something else.
And wow — was I right.
Shannon and James’ wedding at the King Edward Hotel in downtown Toronto was a perfect reflection of who they are: stylish, creative, grounded in meaning, and ready to throw tradition out the window in the best possible way. I was genuinely excited for this one. I knew it wouldn’t be cookie-cutter. I just didn’t know how epic it was going to get.
Then the morning of the wedding came. And here’s your hint at just how different this day was about to be…
Shannon wore a black wedding dress. Yes, you read that right — a stunning, couture Vera Wang gown from The Modern Bride. I didn’t even know until I arrived for getting ready coverage that morning, and honestly? It fit her like a dream. Dramatic, powerful, and totally unexpected — just like this entire day.
This wasn’t just a wedding. It was a creative collaboration, a celebration of personal style, and one of the most emotionally real wedding days I’ve ever documented. And we’re just getting started.
Getting Ready at The Omni King Edward Hotel
The morning of Shannon and James’ wedding started with a surprise that still has me buzzing — a black wedding dress. Not navy, not deep grey… a bold, show-stopping, full tulle Vera Wang black dress. And I had no idea until I walked into the room. My jaw hit the floor — in the best way. From that moment on, I knew the day was going to be magic.
We arrived at The King Edward Hotel in downtown Toronto, where Chelsey and I split up: she headed to James’ suite while I made my way to the bridal room. And let me tell you — Shannon looked like she walked out of a movie. Her hair was sleek, her makeup was flawless (shoutout to Victoria Barrett 💄), and the vibe in that room? Electric.
Shannon had a vision, and it came through in every detail — from the modern pearls around her neck, to the way her dark gown contrasted with the soft window light and golden walls of the King Eddy. Her bridesmaids, dressed in deep plum gowns, were all smiles. Her mom and grandma were teary-eyed as they helped her put on the final touches. And her son, Sebastyan? He brought the energy. From sprinting between the getting ready rooms to striking poses that would make any model jealous, that kid was the life of the party before the party even started.
While I captured all those beautiful emotional moments — the shoe photos with the bridesmaids helping, the mirror shot with her mom adjusting her pearls, and those stunning solo portraits in the window light — Chelsey was with James and the guys. James, dressed in a creamy champagne tux from Surmesur with a black bow tie, was sipping whiskey and writing his vows. Classic. Calm. Cool. His parents popped in for a few sweet moments, and his mom helping with his bow tie was one of those little things that ended up being one of our favourite photos. We kept things creative, just how Shannon wanted. No cookie-cutter getting-ready shots here. We leaned into the cinematic vibe of the hotel — dramatic pillars, dark wood, soft light, and bold fashion choices. We made the most of that space and even snuck in some solo portraits of Shannon in the ceremony room before guests arrived.
With both sides dressed and portraits underway, we gathered the girls and the guys for some fun group photos separately — then it was time. Ceremony coming next.
Wedding Ceremony at the Sovereign Ballroom, King Edward Hotel
The moment the ceremony began, we knew it would be something unforgettable.
Shannon and James chose to exchange vows in the Sovereign Ballroom at The Omni King Edward Hotel — one of the most elegant indoor wedding venues in downtown Toronto. The space was set up to perfection: soaring ceilings, grand chandeliers, ornate white walls, and that soft natural light filtering in through massive windows framed by flowing curtains. It felt cinematic — and that fit Shannon and James to a T.
And when I say it was emotional, I mean it. From the second James walked into the ballroom, his mom was already holding back tears. But the moment that truly hit? When Shannon began walking down the golden aisle hand-in-hand with her son, Sebastyan. James completely lost it — tears flowing, heart wide open. Halfway down the aisle, James met them, took Shannon’s hand, and walked the rest of the way together as a family. I was doing my best to shoot through misty eyes.
Their officiant, Rosemary from Enduring Promises, led a heartfelt ceremony that felt beautifully personal — just like their vows. And as they read those vows to each other, more than a few guests had to wipe their faces. Shannon and James didn’t hold back, and the result was a ceremony that truly captured their bond, their journey, and the love they share not only with each other, but with their families.
From a photography standpoint, this was a dream. I made sure to capture the raw reactions, the subtle glances, and of course — some of my signature creative shots. Including one of my favourites: the under-the-ring shot (yes, that one!) where I shoot from beneath the couple as they exchange rings. It’s different, fun, and now couples are starting to request it at every wedding. Love it.
Once Shannon and James were officially married, we wrapped up the ceremony with a big group photo of all the guests. I set the couple up in the middle of the aisle, climbed up for the overhead shot, counted down — and had the entire room cheering around them as they kissed. It’s one of my favourite moments of every wedding.
From there, we headed straight into portraits — but not the kind you’re thinking. Shannon had something else in mind…
Stylish Portraits at the King Edward Hotel
After the ceremony, we headed straight into portraits — but not your typical stand-and-smile kind of portraits. Shannon made it clear from the beginning: she didn’t want anything cookie-cutter. No stiff poses or awkward lineups. She wanted editorial. She wanted glam. She wanted style. And honestly? That vision was so in sync with the entire vibe of the day.
From the second we stepped into the King Edward Hotel’s grand arches and golden columns, I knew this was going to be one of those iconic wedding party moments. Shannon’s dramatic black wedding dress, the purple bridesmaids’ gowns, and James in that creamy champagne tux? It was giving old-Hollywood elegance with a modern, cinematic twist. We leaned into the luxury, the contrast, the drama — and the photos speak for themselves.
Everyone showed up ready to go. Shannon’s bridesmaids had champagne in hand and were glowing with that “just watched our best friend get married” kind of joy. And James and the guys? Smooth, classic, and totally playing their part. Even Shannon’s son was right there, posing like a pro and stealing hearts in his tux and sneakers. This whole set of portraits felt less like a wedding shoot and more like a fashion editorial — timeless, classy, but with a relaxed energy that kept it all feeling real and fun. Exactly what Shannon and James had hoped for. 👏
The Decor: A Royal Touch at The King Edward Hotel ✨
Before the party lit up the night, the decor truly set the tone for elegance and romance. Every corner of the Sovereign Ballroom at The Omni King Edward Hotel was styled to perfection, blending timeless luxury with modern flair. The soft champagne tones, gold accents, and delicate florals made the entire space feel warm and regal.
The tables were dressed with elegant linens and golden charger plates, and the candlelight created a soft, romantic glow throughout the room. One of my favourite design touches? The towering, modern candleholders that gave height and drama to the tablescapes without blocking the view of the guests. It was dreamy.
Let’s talk about the flowers 🌿💐—because wow. Huge shoutout to Callia Flowers for the stunning arrangements! The floral design was sophisticated and lush, filled with soft whites and delicate greenery. From the sweetheart table to the aisle and every detail in between, the florals were soft, full, and completely on point.
And instead of a traditional wedding cake, Shannon and James surprised everyone with the most epic macaron tower I’ve ever seen—complete with a miniature Eiffel Tower topper. Chic, fun, and totally them.
Big love to the entire vendor team who brought this vision to life. You absolutely nailed it and created a space that felt magical, personal, and full of heart.
Reception at the King Edward Hotel
After our portrait session (which was already 🔥), we headed into the reception — and let me tell you, I was not putting my camera down any time soon. Shannon and James weren’t done yet. Shannon had a full vision, and she was all in. We still had more couple portraits planned later in the night (because when you’ve got that dress, that suit, and that historic hotel as your backdrop… you go big, right?).
The reception took place in the Sovereign Ballroom at The Omni King Edward Hotel in downtown Toronto — one of the most elegant spaces I’ve photographed. As soon as the couple made their entrance, they jumped straight into their first dance. It was magical. (I know, I know… I keep using that word — but this whole day really was next-level beautiful.) And I wasn’t the only one feeling it. I looked over and spotted a few bridesmaids wiping tears. 🥹 Their dance had that kind of energy — classic, emotional, cinematic.
From there, the whole evening flowed with laughter, tears, and surprise after surprise. The speeches were raw and personal — especially the ones from their wedding party. There was so much love in that room, and I could feel how deeply Shannon and James are cherished by their friends and family.
And then came the twist… They dropped a bombshell during their thank-you speech: they were already married. Yep — Shannon and James had tied the knot secretly in Paris before this Toronto celebration. And not only that — they played a slideshow with their Paris elopement photos in the background while announcing it. It was a total mic drop moment. The guests lost it. You could feel the room light up with surprise and joy.
After the announcement, they gathered their bridal party for a big champagne tower toast, and the energy just kept rising. Glasses clinked, everyone cheered, and we all knew — the party was just getting started.
👉 But before I get to the wild dance floor photos… there’s one more thing you need to see next.
Stylish Portrait Session at the King Edward Hotel 💥
After their epic reception moments, Shannon and James weren’t done yet — we had a lot more portraits to shoot (and trust me, I wasn’t complaining 🙌). Shannon is a big photography fan, and she really wanted to take advantage of the King Edward Hotel’s insane backdrop. This place is honestly a wonderland for photographers — I’m talking about dramatic staircases, vintage elevators, velvet chairs, and little corners that feel like movie sets. What made this even better? Shannon and James gave us total creative freedom. They picked the spots, and then they said, “Do your magic.” That’s the dream right there.
We started with a dramatic staircase shot — Shannon had her heart set on this one from the beginning. And wow, it delivered. Her black gown trailing down those elegant steps? Cinematic as hell. We even snapped some fun candid moments of the groomsmen earlier that day on the same stairs, but this post-ceremony session? OMG 🤯!
Then came one of my favourite parts: the elevator photos. Chelsey had the best idea for a sexy, stylish shot and absolutely nailed it. Honestly, these photos turned out so cool, we started doing them again at our Vegas wedding right after — elevator portraits are officially a thing now 😎.
Next, we found these huge, regal purple chairs at the reception space that looked like they were made for portraits. Shannon and James curled up together, looking like royalty. And then, this little room off to the side caught my eye — it had these bold pops of colour with fake orange trees and floral wallpaper. The lighting was low, the vibe was cozy, and I knew we had to do something creative. I pulled off a mirrored reflection shot that ended up being one of my favourites from the whole night. Super moody, romantic, and editorial. Loved it.
We also made our way back to the room where Shannon got ready earlier in the day. There was this big, vintage-style painting hanging on the wall — and I used it to play with shadows and light to create a red-hued, artistic silhouette photo. Honestly, it felt like something out of a European art gallery.
Of course, Shannon wanted a few black and white night portraits outside the King Edward Hotel and along the Toronto streets — and they turned out so editorial. We snuck out for a quick night session, walking down the street hand in hand, stopping under the glow of the city lights. These two looked like they walked out of a Vogue spread.
Everything — from the indoor details to the urban city shots — came together like a dream. If you’re looking for a spot for timeless, stylish, and creative wedding portraits in Toronto? The Omni King Edward Hotel is it.
A King Edward Hotel Wedding Party to Remember 🎉
And then… the party happened. And wow — Shannon and James warned us that their crew loves to party, but we weren’t ready for this much fun. From the second the music dropped, the dance floor exploded. There were glow sticks flying, drinks flowing, kids running around having the time of their lives — it was pure joy in motion. One of my favourite moments was watching James dance with his mom — such a sweet, emotional highlight in the middle of all the high-energy chaos. Moments like that are what make wedding days unforgettable.
A little later, Shannon slipped away to change into her second look — a tight, sparkly white party dress that brought the energy right back up to 100. And of course, once the outfit changes, we have to take more portraits. That’s just the rule, right?
We stepped out onto the streets of downtown Toronto, found a glowing old streetlight outside the hotel, and snapped a few quick shots that felt like a movie scene. Then we rushed over to the King Edward Hotel bar, where Shannon (true legend) climbed up on the counter for one last round of bold, stylish portraits before the staff could tell us to get down. 😅 Worth it. Every. Single. Frame.
And that’s how we wrapped up the night — surrounded by laughter, dancing, a couple who trusted us with everything, and a whole crew that made us feel like part of the family.
Shannon and James, from the bottom of my heart — thank you. Thank you for being down for anything, for bringing the glam and the wild energy, and for letting us be a part of something that felt genuinely magical. This wedding is going in the books. I already know we’ll be seeing you both again — and I can’t wait for whatever wild, creative, beautiful thing we get to make next.
Want a venue that brings old-world glam and epic party energy?
Check out The Omni King Edward Hotel for your downtown Toronto wedding.
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