Set against the serene waters of the lake, Taylor and John’s wedding was a warm and romantic celebration that brought their closest family and friends together for an unforgettable weekend. With a setting that reflected their love for lakeside summers, the couple envisioned an elevated yet natural design, filled with lush florals and soft textures that complemented the surrounding landscape. Their daughters, Daphne and Delilah, played a special role in the day, making it a true family affair. From heartfelt vows to a night of dancing under a breathtaking floral installation, every moment felt deeply personal and full of joy.
Location: Fingerlakes region of New York, USA
Style: Warm, romantic, elevated traditional
Time of planning: 1 year
Number of guests: 135
Setting: Resort
Season: Summer
Taylor and John’s love story began with a blind date that quickly turned into something unforgettable. John, ever the gentleman, introduced himself with a phone call before the date and walked Taylor home after dinner, leaving a lasting impression with his kindness. Over the years, their bond grew stronger through concerts, sporting events, wedding dance-offs, and travels around the world. They built a life together in Toronto, first in their Cabbagetown apartment before buying a home, but their greatest joy has been becoming parents to their daughters, Daphne and Delilah. Juggling wedding planning with two little ones wasn’t easy, but as Taylor put it, “it ended up being the most magical day we could ever imagine.”
Bridal Morning
Taylor’s wedding morning began in the bridal suite at The Lakehouse Canandaigua, surrounded by her closest loved ones—including her daughter, Daphne, who joined her for the morning preparations. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as she got ready with the help of Shannon Petrolito for hair and Allyssa Helm Beauty for makeup. Taylor, who prefers a natural look, opted for a soft and effortless beauty style—her hair pulled back neatly off her face, allowing her features to shine. Her makeup was light and understated, enhancing her natural glow rather than overpowering it.
For her bridal look, Taylor collaborated with Powder Bride to design a custom gown that embodied both simplicity and high-fashion elegance. The dress featured a sleek silhouette with a sophisticated high turtleneck, a striking open back, and an accent bow that added a refined yet modern touch. Later in the evening, she changed into a short, sparkly retro-inspired number, also from Powder Bride, which she personally tailored into a fitted pencil dress by removing the sleeves. The transformation allowed her to fully enjoy the dance floor, celebrating late into the night in a look that was as fun as it was stylish.
Groom's Fashion
John’s morning was spent in the rich, moody interiors of the venue, where he and his groomsmen got ready in a space lined with bookshelves and deep leather seating. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful, as they shared drinks and laughter before the big moment.
His custom white tuxedo jacket from Harry Rosen hung neatly on a bookshelf, waiting for the finishing touch of a classic black bow tie. The details of the morning reflected his timeless style, from a sleek signet ring to a bottle of Gentleman Jack resting on the table beside him.
John and his closest friends helped each other with bow ties and final touches. The groomsmen looked sharp in black tuxedos with suspenders, adding to the classic elegance of the day. The group shared a quiet moment reading personal notes before stepping outside, where John was meeting with his bride.
First Look
Taylor and John’s first look was a moment of pure emotion, shared in a quiet space where they could take in the significance of the day ahead. They stood together, holding onto the moment, away from the crowd, just the two of them before the day unfolded. The photographer Scarlet O’Neill captured every glance and embrace, preserving the quiet beauty of a couple savoring the beginning of their wedding day.
Their daughter soon ran into their arms, turning the intimate moment into a family one. The three of them shared a hug, a reminder that this day wasn’t just about their union but the family they had built together. As the wedding party joined in, the energy shifted, with laughter and excitement filling the air. Bridesmaids in warm, neutral dresses and groomsmen in classic black tuxedos gathered around them, and together, they made their way to the ceremony, ready to celebrate the next chapter.
Ceremony
Set against the water’s edge, the ceremony space was a breathtaking scene of romance and natural beauty. Guests were seated on wooden cross-back chairs, arranged in neat rows on the lawn, facing a striking floral installation by Beck & Forth Co.. The arrangement cascaded with soft, blush-toned roses, delicate greenery, and wisps of smoke bush, creating an organic, garden-like setting. The warm wood of the barn in the background added a rustic touch, seamlessly blending with the soft floral textures and the lake’s shimmering backdrop. Sunlight streamed through scattered clouds, highlighting the thoughtful design that made the ceremony feel both intimate and grand.
"We included our children in the ceremony by saying vows to girls and given them each an engraved locket. The overwhelming joy we felt to finally “officially” be a family."
The ceremony itself was deeply personal, officiated by Taylor’s university roommate, Kirstine. John and Taylor’s daughters played an essential role—Daphne walked down the aisle with her grandfather, while Delilah was carried by her grandmother, making for a touching family moment. In a unique addition, the couple exchanged vows not only with each other but also with their children, presenting them with engraved lockets as a symbol of their unity. Guests, dressed in a mix of chic summer styles, smiled and teared up as the couple shared their first kiss beneath the floral arch. The joy in the air was undeniable, setting the perfect tone for the celebration to follow.
"The overwhelming joy we felt to finally “officially” be a family."
Cocktail Hour
As the sun cast a golden glow over the evening, guests gathered on the lawn for a relaxed and lively cocktail hour. Glasses of Aperol spritz and champagne sparkled under the warm string lights, while elegant white floral arrangements in minimalist vases adorned the high-top tables. Friends and family mingled, laughing and sharing stories as the fresh breeze rolled in from the lake. Children twirled on the grass, making the most of the open space, while guests in flowing floral dresses and sharp tuxedos sipped their drinks, soaking in the atmosphere. The barn’s rustic exterior set the perfect backdrop for this vibrant yet intimate moment, where the celebration had only just begun.
"Seeing and feeling how much love and support we have from our friends and close family for us as a couple was incredibly moving and powerful."
Private Moment
As the evening light softened, Taylor and John stepped away from the celebration for a quiet moment together by the water. With the lake stretching behind them and the sky shifting into deep blue, they held each other close, taking in the weight of the day. The golden glow of the setting sun framed them perfectly, illuminating the intimacy of the moment. Taylor leaned into John, his embrace steady and full of warmth, as they let the evening breeze wrap around them. The stillness, the depth in their gazes, and the contrast of the moody sky against the soft glow of their skin created an atmosphere that was both movie-like and deeply personal.
Scarlet O’Neill captured this private moment with a masterful eye, playing with light and shadows to create images that felt almost dreamlike. Using different lenses, she added depth and a cinematic quality to the photographs, making each frame feel both intimate and timeless. The reflection of the sunset, the gentle way their hands intertwined, and the way Taylor’s dress subtly caught the last of the light all contributed to the storytelling within each shot. Every photo held an unspoken dialogue between them—one of love, gratitude, and the quiet joy.
Decor & Setting
The reception space was transformed into a romantic and inviting setting, with a design that felt both refined and effortlessly natural. Long tables draped in soft taupe linens were lined with delicate floral arrangements by Beck & Forth Co., featuring blush and ivory roses, airy greenery, and touches of dried botanicals for added texture. Tall glass candles flickered among the flowers, casting a warm glow over the space.
Overhead, breathtaking floating floral installations hung from the wooden beams, creating the feeling of dining beneath a lush, suspended garden. Gold-rimmed chargers, scalloped dinnerware, and neatly knotted fabric accents on the chairs added a layer of understated elegance. The soft lighting and natural tones blended seamlessly with the barn’s warm wooden interior, creating a setting that was intimate and sophisticated.
"We really wanted a warm, romantic and neutral colour pallet with lots of texture to compliment the wood and natural surroundings."
Reception
The reception was filled with energy, laughter, and heartfelt moments as guests settled in for an evening of celebration. As dinner was served, speeches became one of the night’s highlights—bringing both tears and bursts of laughter. John surprised everyone with a beautifully written poem for Taylor, a side of him not often seen, leaving the room in awe of his words. The joy at each table was undeniable, with glasses clinking in cheers and guests leaning in to share stories. Meanwhile, live music filled the space, setting the perfect ambiance for a night meant to be remembered.
As the evening progressed, the dance floor quickly became the heart of the celebration. The couple swayed under the hanging florals for their first dance before the band picked up the tempo, playing a mix of university party anthems, classic rock, and country hits that had everyone on their feet. Even the youngest guests stole the spotlight, twirling across the floor in their miniature tuxedos and dresses. With golden lights casting a warm glow through the barn’s open doors and the music carrying into the night, the reception felt like the perfect balance of elegance and unfiltered joy.
"The highlight of the reception was dancing the night away with John and having so much fun with our friends on the dance floor!"
PHOTOGRAPHER Scarlet O’Neill | PLANNER Lexi Haslam | VENUE The Lakehouse Canandaigua | FLORALS Sara Spoth, Beck & Forth Co. | HAIR Shannon Petrolito | MAKEUP Allyssa Helm Beauty | DRESS Powder Bride
