Bride and groom in their portrait session walking away from the camera with groom holding flowers and bride in a Made with Love dress

Melissa and Michael's wedding day was a perfect blend of warmth, intimacy, and genuine emotion. I love when couples shake up tradition and create a day that’s true to them and their love story. This chic and intimate restaurant wedding in Orangeville, Ontario was unique. Scroll down and see for yourself!

Birds eye, layflat view of bridal accessories on wedding day

The day began with a unique twist as Melissa and Michael chose to get ready together at home - Mel decided to keep her wedding dress reveal a secret until their first look together (more on the dress later!)

While Michael got ready with the boys in the living room, Melissa chose to share a close moment with each of her immediate family members, revealing her final look to them one-by-one. Her moment with her stepdad was particularly emotional. You could feel their bond fill the room, and Mel couldn’t hold back her tears; they flooded freely.

Now, let’s talk about the dress. Oh, the dress! My heart melts every time I see a Made With Love Bridal dress on a wedding day. This Australian-based company is known for its modern, quality-made dresses with deep V necklines and plunging low backs. Melissa wore Archie – chef's kiss. Her dress was sexy, sophisticated, and fit her like a glove. Archie is a dramatic, fitted gown with a low cowl back. Made With Love dresses are available worldwide in boutiques and retailers.

First look on wedding day with the bride and her father in orangeville ontario

Once Mel and Mike were both ready, it was time for the couple’s first look! Mike made his way to the backyard and faced away from the house. Mel took her time, and when she was ready, she placed a hand on Mike’s shoulder. She was met with a loving gaze and a heartfelt, 'Oh... Mel.' Mike was speechless, deeply in awe of his bride-to-be.

Black and white photo of a bride and groom doing a first look in their backyard in orangeville

Black and white of groom spinning his bride after first look in their backyard

We then ventured to a scenic spot near their home before heading to Orangeville to photograph their bride and groom portraits. The overcast weather provided a moody and romantic backdrop for their photos. Melissa and Michael were incredibly easy-going and open to new ideas during their portrait photography session. From playful embraces to quiet gazes, these authentic and candid moments truly reflected their love and connection.

bride and groom portrait session in an orangeville field leaning against a black sports car

Their venue, Greystones Restaurant, in Orangeville, provided a beautiful setting for their intimate ceremony and reception. This relaxed and inviting space, just outside of The Greater Toronto Area, was originally built in 1852. The building has 4 spaces, excellent food, and the team has a great eye for detail. Family and wedding party photography against the venue's old stonework added a timeless touch to their album.

Black and white close up of the details in a brides pearl veil

Rain couldn't dampen their spirits. The ceremony was set on Greystone's back patio and was decorated with timeless and chic white florals and greenery. Michael walked down the aisle first, followed by the wedding party. Mel’s father couldn’t keep a smile off his face as he walked his daughter down the aisle. The couple exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by their closest family and friends.

After the ceremony, the rain came down hard. The couple pivoted from their choice of having their first dance and cocktail hour outdoors, and guests made their way upstairs into the restaurants reception space. The neutral florals and greenery allowed the space to shine and really speak for itself. Melissa and Michael shared their first dance as a married couple before enjoying an evening filled with laughter, food, and drinks.

Wedding Reception at Greystones Restaurant in Orangeville

I always recommend couples take moments throughout their wedding day to be with each other. It’s your wedding day, and your guests will totally understand you wanting to be with your partner! Before leaving for the evening, the couple chose to have one last photography session. We enjoyed finding little stairwells around the restaurant for alone moments.

Melissa and Michael's intimate restaurant wedding day was a joy to document. The rain really evoked a romantic and moody atmosphere. Their laid-back approach and genuine connection made every photograph a reflection of their love story.

black and white detail photography of bridal dress and grooms tux

If you're looking for a wedding and family photographer in the Greater Toronto Area to capture your wedding day in a way that’s true to you, reach out! I would love to hear your ideas and help create the day you’ve always imagined.

Vendor Love:

Photography: Nicole Guido, Photographer
Venue: Greystones Restaurant
Florals: Lobo Florals
Music: Colin Gray
Arch: Social Creations
Welcome Sign: Jaclyns Calligraphy by Design
Cake: La Creme Cakes
Wedding Dress: Made With Love Bridal
Hair: Ashley Hair Studio
Makeup: Claudia Buongiorno