Calm Inside, Buzzing Outside
I first met these two when I photographed their engagement session at the Wild Growth Field in New Lowell—right between Barrie and Collingwood—and I knew right away we’d get along. They had this adventurous, real, down-to-earth energy that felt so familiar, like meeting kindred spirits. And when they casually mentioned they’d spent time tree planting near Nelson, BC (aka, our favourite place we’ve ever lived), I straight-up hugged them on the spot. From that moment on, I had a feeling their wedding—set at a family cottage near Collingwood—would be something special. As a Collingwood wedding photographer, I can honestly say this day was one of the most unique I’ve ever been part of.
The entire celebration took place at the bride’s parents’ cottage, tucked away by the lake. Inside the cozy living room, the bride got ready quietly with her mom—it was calm and intimate. Outside, though, guests were arriving from near and far, greeting one another with hugs and laughter. There was this unmistakable energy of reunion and celebration in the air.
An Emotional First Look with Bridesmaids and Dad
One of the most electric moments was the first look with her bridesmaids. When they turned around and saw her, there were tears, gasps, cheers—you could feel the love and pride radiating off of everyone. Then her dad came in, and you could just see his heart on his sleeve. It was like the years disappeared and he was seeing his little girl and his wife in the same moment!
Before the ceremony, I noticed the bride quietly holding her hands—an honest, human moment of nerves and excitement. She shared with me that she had made some huge positive changes in her personal life, and it made the day feel especially grounded and intentional. It wasn’t about performance. It was about being here, with each other, in all their truth.
A Lakefront Ceremony in Simcoe County
The ceremony took place down by the water, surrounded by vintage wooden chairs, with the lake sparkling in the background. When the bride walked down the aisle, the groom couldn’t hold it together. His face lit up, tearful and grinning, and it was one of those moments I’ll never forget. Capturing that kind of emotion is what I live for, baby!
Vintage Decor, Velvet Sofas & Dancing in the Moonlight
After the ceremony, everyone helped move the chairs to the front yard, where dinner tables were set up under the trees. The décor was boho-chic meets gypsy vintage: a chandelier hanging from the branches, string lights overhead, layered antique rugs for a dance floor, and a velvet purple couch for chilling out. It felt like stepping into a dream—effortless, stylish, and so them.
As the night went on, and dinner wrapped up, “Dancing in the Moonlight” started playing, and the dance floor came alive. Under the stars, everyone was dancing like no one was watching. The energy was unfiltered and joyful—so honest and full of life. I felt completely myself that night, which is rare at weddings. Sometimes I feel like I need to show up in a way that fits what the couple expects—but with these two, I just was. And because of that, my creativity soared. I felt in my flow.
Later, the bride changed into a comfier dress (barefoot, of course—my kind of human!), and they both just glided through the evening with ease. One of the most touching things I witnessed was her dad dancing with his daughters late into the night, surrounded by soft lights and music. It was like something out of a movie, but better—because it was real.
Why This Wedding Moved Me So Deeply
This wedding will always stay with me. It wasn’t over-produced or over-styled—it was deeply felt, intentionally crafted, and wildly beautiful. It reflected who they are: grounded, connected, and full of heart.
If you’re planning a wedding in Collingwood, Georgian Bay, or anywhere in Simcoe County, and are looking for a photographer who will celebrate the real, the tender, and the joyfully weird—I’d love to hear from you.
With love,
Hillary West
