Nadia & Dave - July Wedding in Tignish, PEI

wedding date - july 6th, 2019

Nadia and Dave knew each other since they were kids through Nadia's brother and Dave's buddy Dexter. It wasn't until adulthood when Nadia pressed Dexter on what Dave's story was and what he was like. After hearing she was interested, Dave sprang into action and contacted Nad. The romance grew quickly as they saw exactly what they both wanted - and needed - in the other person. Sixteen months and six days after their first date, Dave proposed to Nadia along the beautiful cliffs of North Cape!

I met Nadia & Dave a few years ago when they starting playing on our multisport league and we’ve since become great friends. It was so fun to be invited to photograph their wedding and I loved getting to know them even more throughout the whole process. They are kind and welcoming people who alway make sure everyone is having a great time in their company. From their wedding they really wanted to have an epic, all night long party with friends, family & community there to celebrate and support them and I think they achieved just that! With over 250 people in attendance, the atmosphere was fun and lively despite all the unpredictable downpours throughout the day. They were married in Tignish and had their cocktail hour and reception in a huge Caseley’s tent on family property. I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I do!

Thank you so much Nadia & Dave for having me capture your wedding day, and congrats to the Brothers!

wedding advice from the couple: 

“Make sure you are both bought into it. It is a lot of work so you may as well have fun together planning it.”

Number of guests - 260

Ceremony - St. Simon & St. Jude, Tignish

Reception - tent provided by Caseley’s, private property

Hair - Phyllis Bernard
Makeup - Rebecca Powers
Wedding Dress - Maggie Sottero, With Love Bridal Boutique, Ottawa
Florals - Alberton Florists

Decor - Miss K's Kreations
Cake - Butter
Catering - MJ's Bakery - Tignish
Transportation - Eclipse Entertainment Company
DJ - DJ Dekz
Late Night Food - Up West Fire Fries

Taylor & Mark - Charlottetown Wedding at The Delta Prince Edward

Wedding date - July 21st, 2018

Taylor & Mark and met through mutual friends and quickly hit things off. In the Spring of 2017 they visited one of their favorite hiking spots where Mark planned to propose at the top. Mark assumed there would be lots of people around to take a photo of him asking the question, but when they reached the top there was not a soul in sight. Eventually, he (uncharacteristically) asked Taylor if they could get a photo together and set up a timer instead! She was shocked, out of words, and of course - said yes.

Mark & Taylor were married on a warm July day in Charlottetown on the back terrace at the Delta Prince Edward. We captured lots of photographs of the two of them together but also with the many people they are close to in their lives. Locations included a friend’s home on the waterfront, Government House, The Delta, and Taylor’s home. My favorite part are all the huge smiles and emotions you can feel in these photos. There was no shortage of family and friends around on their wedding day so you could tell Mark & Taylor were really loved by many. Parents, siblings, and friends all played a large role in the day - including Taylor’s three sisters!

Getting to know this couple and capturing their wedding was a joy and a highlight of the year. I’m excited to now share these photos with you all! Enjoy,

Number of guests - 160

Venue - Delta Prince Edward Hotel

Wedding coordination - Elysian weddings and events

makeup - taylored beauty

hair - Brittany Bruinooge

flowers - island meadow farms

dress - Halo Gown by Hayley Paige

decor - once upon a wedding

Music - Bridgette Blanchard, Gordie Cox

Limo - Prestige Limousine

cake - Christine’s Cake Creations

photography - brady mccloskey photography

Naomi & Nathan - October wedding in Alberton, PEI

wedding date - october 7th, 2017

A few years ago Nathan moved temporarily from Ontario to small town Alberton, Prince Edward Island to help his Mother set up her new restaurant in town - The Sidewalk Grill. Around the same time, Naomi also moved to Alberton when she got a pharmacist job after graduation. Neither intended to stay in the small town long term, but everything changed when they crossed paths and met each other. With their workplaces being close by, Naomi would often head to the restaurant for lunch and strike up conversations with Nate. Their lunch time interactions soon changed to dates, and the two quickly fell in love. Fittingly, Nate proposed to Naomi over breakfast one morning! Fast forward to now, Naomi & Nate have bought a beautiful home together and have settled in the small town where they met! 

Naomi grew up as a fisherman's daughter in Souris, PEI so their wedding reception took place on the pier at Northport Harbour. Their decor tied in nautical with the Fall colors, blue and white being highlights. Their favorite moment of the day was seeing each other as Naomi walked down the isle, all their nerves changing to joy and excitement. 

Naomi & Nathan are two of the kindest people you can ever meet, and they are a pleasure to be around. All day you could feel how special it was for both of them to have everyone together, and see the love from around the room. We photographed on the cliffs in Western PEI, in their backyard, and at Northport pier. I'm so happy I was able to capture their wedding, and just spend a day with them too! Congratulations Naomi & Nate!  

number of guests - 140

ceremony - st anthony's church

reception - northport pier

officiant - father andrew macdonald

hair - cheryl weeks

makeup - jacki peters

wedding dress - allure at perfect pair bridal

grooms suit - moores

flowers - alberton florists

decorator - rave event decor (velma robichaud)

planner - caie-lea carpenter

dj - tyler's dj services

cake - karen's kupcakes

caterer - northport pier restaurant

stationary - vistaprint

transportation - gordon's tours & eclipse entertainment

videographer - mel guary 

photographer - brady mccloskey photography 

Jill & Gordie - Vintage Wedding in Downtown Charlottetown

Wedding date - november 24th, 2017

Jill & Gordie met through mutual friends at a music festival - Stan Fest in Canso, Nova Sctoia in 2009. The weather was awful that day, very rainy and muddy. A friend of Jill's went down to check on Jill and her friends in their tent and Gordie tagged along. When Gordie saw Jill for the first time he said she looked so sad he wanted to do anything to cheer her up. He brought her warm coffee and cold beers and gave her access to a real washroom, thus impressing her and beginning their adventurous relationship! 

Gordie travels the world as a musician (Gordie MacKeeman and his Rhythm Boys) and Jill joins when she can. Music has brought them across North America, Europe, India, and beyond. In 2016 they welcomed their sweet daughter Annie to the world and in 2017 they got engaged on the beach at her parent's home. 8 years and a child later, they set November 24th, 2017 as they evening they would get married!

Their vintage wedding inspiration came from Jill's 1920 antique ring. With their homemade suit and dress, the Haviland Club setting, and the amazing hairstyles to match, this wedding looks like it could have been photographed many years ago. I love when a couple breaks from the norm and does their own thing, so this was a real treat to capture! Jill & Gordie's attitude was laid back and focused on spending time with their friends and family. We captured all of their photos in the evening, and then they danced the night away! 

wedding advice from the couple

"Don't sweat the small stuff. Try and let things slide as much as possible and pick your battles. In the long run a lot of things don't matter and there is no need to start a fight over something that really won't matter in a day, a week, or a year. 

number of guests - 100

officiant - martin carter

hair - corey doucette - aveda grand senses

wedding dress - handmade

groom's suit - handmade 

flowers - mother of the bride

decorator - pineapple eventworks

music - mike bravener and the rockin billies

cake - pat arsenault

photography - brady mccloskey photography

Hilary & Mike - Married in Bedeque, PEI

wedding date - july 14th, 2017

On her first day of university at UPEI, Hilary arrived late to discover class was full and there was only one seat left in the room. She hurried in and sat down right beside Mike, not knowing that one day this stranger would become her husband! The weeks and months went by and Hilary & Mike became good friends through class, but later parted ways when they both switched schools. Almost two years later they ran into each other in Halifax and spent the rest of the night chatting and catching up. Little did they know, their conversation that evening would never end! 

Years later Hilary & Mike had travelled to see their favorite hockey teams play in Montreal. A few hours after arriving they hiked up to enjoy the views of the city from Mount Royal. Mike handed his phone to a stranger to take a photo of them and surprised Hilary by bringing out an engagement ring! 

Having photographed the wedding of Hilary's sister Bethany and Brother in law Brad, it was special to be invited back into their family again and see it combined with Mike's side as well. Mike & Hilary's wedding day was a hot blue sky day in mid July. They were married close to Hilary's home in Bedeque and celebrated at The Shipyard later that evening. They wanted their wedding day to feel romantic, dreamy, & modern and it did just that. We photographed the majority of formals at McCallum's Point, a special place to the Waugh family where Hilary spent a lot of time swimming and playing as a kid. Standing on the cliffs laughing and enjoying ourselves with the ocean all around us was the best kind of PEI Summer day! To everyone involved in this wedding day, thank you so much for keeping the good vibes going all day long! 

Congratulations Hilary & Mike!

advice from the couple

"Stay organized throughout the planning process. Understand that there will be a light at the end of the tunnel and you will eventually miss planning for your "best day ever". So enjoy it and don't stress!"

Number of guests - 125

Venue - Bedeque United Church, The shipyard

Officiant - Rev. Catherine Stuart

Hair - AMP Hair & Makeup Artistry

makeup - makeup by sabrina sierra

Wedding dress - Maggie Sottero from Kleinfeld 

Groom's suit - Moore's

Florals - Prestige Floral Studio

Decor - Once Upon a Wedding

DJ - Tyler's DJ Services

Cake - Family friend

Stationary - LaBohemmePaperCo - Etsy

Transportation - Eclipse Entertainment

Videography - Fresh Films

Photography - Brady mccloskey photography

Travel - Portland, Oregon

Years ago I read an article in The Globe & Mail about Portland's interesting vibe and culture and that made me so curious to check it out one day. Since I was heading to Vancouver/Whistler this January, I booked a multi city flight to Portland for 3 nights on the way! I had been excited to see the city and the forests and they did not disappoint. I even managed to dodge most of the rainy weather that Portland is known for. 

The food and drink options in Portland were everywhere, and overwhelming at times. Everyone had a suggestion on where I could find the best of this and that, but it was so fun to eat my way through every day. The donuts, the beer & cider, the ice cream, the breakfasts.....everything was delicious. 

A few things I loved about Portland:

• Every area of the city had something interesting, or somewhere amazing to eat

• Transit was so great and easy and day passes were only $5!

• Food trucks (or carts) were embraced and were all over the city, including circling an entire block downtown

• Forest Park (where all these forest photos were taken) was just a short ride away on transit and held a gigantic network of trails of all skill levels.

• Portland has the world's largest independent bookstore. Powell's City of Books is so fun to walk around and get lost in.

• Bike lanes were everywhere, Portland is referred to as "Bike City USA"

• Everyone drives a Subaru!

• There are around 70 microbreweries in Portland

If you find yourself in the Pacific Northwest, consider stopping into Portland. I plan to be back one day to check out more of the surrounding forests and mountains, and to drive out to the coast. Until next time! 

2017 Favorites

Sitting down and compiling this collection is always something I look forward to every year. It allows me to look back on everything I've captured that year and choose my personal favorite photos. For many different reasons, these are some of the shots that stand out.

In 2017 we delivered a total of nearly 29,000 photos to wedding, portrait, and commercial clients. Thinking about that number is overwhelming, and thinking of all of that work is too. But year after year I continue to love this creative field that introduces me to so many people, making real connections along the way. To absolutely everyone who trusted and hired me this past year, I appreciate you so much. A huge thank you as well to everyone who followed along or gave support in any way!

2017 seemed to be a year of surprises for my business and I'm so fortunate for all of these opportunities. My favorite photography podcast recorded an episode about me, I hired my first part time employee, was contracted by the New York Times, and was named one of the top 25 most inspiring photographers in Canada. What a ride! 

Without the fun and interesting interactions, dynamics, and relationships of clients, there would be nothing. A photograph aims to tell the story of what happened, so thank you all for providing these amazing stories. 

Enjoy ~

Jossie & Liam - September Wedding at The Rivershed

Wedding date - September 10th, 2017

Jossie & Liam are big animal lovers and came up with special touches to include them into their wedding day. Jossie is a long time staff member of The PEI Humane Society, and the couple has fostered countless animals in their home over the years. When Liam proposed to Jossie, he brought her along as he pretended to be looking for a family friend's lost dog in Victoria Park, but when they found Divot he had an engagement ring on his collar! On their wedding day the same dog was their ring bearer and carried rings on his collar once again. 

Adorable foster kittens from the PEI Humane Society helped the girls get ready the morning of the wedding, and these cute photos went viral - being featured on The Dodo, Yahoo, Yahoo News, and CBC! All kittens were quickly adopted afterwards. 

Jossie & Liam were married at his family's Summer home on the water in Cymbria, and hosted their reception at the newly opened Rivershed events venue in Oyster Bed Bridge. Guests enjoyed a long cocktail hour with delicious food and an intimate dinner with great speeches, all followed by the best private fireworks show I've ever seen. This day was so nice to capture, and these are two of the kindest people you could meet. Thank you Jossie & Liam for allowing me to capture your special day <3

Wedding advice from the couple

Just relax! Don't stress about the small stuff, it's not worth it :)

Number of guests - ~80

Officiant - George Clark Dunning

Hair - Crissy Crane
Makeup - Chantelle Brown

Wedding Dress - Perfect Pear Bridal

Florals - Hearts and Flowers

Groom's Suit - Moores Clothing for Men

Decorator - Debby Penny

Venue - The Rivershed

photographer - brady mccloskey

Brittany & Allan - Riverside tent wedding in Kensington

WEDDING DATE - July 7, 2017

Brittany & Allan met long ago as young teens when they both worked at the Cavendish Boardwalk in the Summer months. Allan was Brittany's best friend's manager which led to them often running into each other before Allan finally built up the courage to talk to Brittany. After a few dates Brittany claimed she didn't want a boyfriend, but once Allan got another girlfriend, Brittany soon changed her mind....haha! Many flip phone text messages were exchanged and their dating years began. After 7 years together Allan proposed to Brittany (who is a teacher) while having coffee on their patio the morning of her last day of school for the year. They flew home to PEI that evening and celebrated with everyone they loved. 

I met Brittany and Allan during our university days at UPEI when Brittany and I lived in the same residence building. We later bonded more over our shared experience as exchange students in sunny Barbados. When it came time to plan their wedding, I was thrilled to be their photographer! 

As evident in the emotions, expressions, and the laughs in these photos, Allan & Brittany fully enjoyed their beautiful day this past July. An all star team of vendors helped pull it all together as well. 

Congratulations Britt & Allan, you are the funnest!
 

Wedding advice from the couple

Enjoy every moment and don’t get overwhelmed with all the small details. It is truly about the memories you get to make and the moments you spend with all the special people in your life. The immense love you get to feel that day is unlike anything, so soak it all in!

NUMBER OF GUESTS- 120
OFFICIANT –MARSHA WEEKS
PHOTOGRAPHY - BRADY MCCLOSKEY
HAIR- KENSIGNTON HAIR STATION
MAKEUP- MAKEUP BY AIMEE DOW
WEDDING DRESS – MAGGIE SOTTERO, BRIDAL DEBUT
GROOMS SUIT- HUDSON BAY COMPANY
FLOWERS- ISLAND MEADOW FARMS
PLANNER- KLF WEDDINGS (KRISTINA FISHER)
DJ- MUSIC EXPRESS (ANDREW CROSS)
CAKE- BUNS AND THINGS BAKERY
CATERER- MELVIN FORD

Brittany & Clark - Healy Farm wedding in Kentville, NS

Wedding date - July 8th, 2017

At the end of 2015 I received an email from Halifax wedding planners Elegant Productions about a mystery couple who just had to have me for their 2017 wedding day in Kentville, NS. I was flattered but curious as to who it was and why they were hiring an Island based photographer. After several emails to confirm things I was surprised and thrilled when my friend Brittany sent me a message letting me know it was her and her fiancé Clark that I had booked! 
It was a beautiful thing to be invited to capture their wedding day this Summer at Healy Farm in Kentville. Surrounded by family and friends, including many who travelled all the way from Clark's home of Australia - Britt and Clark made everyone feel special and appreciated. They are two of the kindest people and I am so happy to call them friends!

A backpacking adventure turned into an unforgettable love story for this fun loving couple when they met during Brittany's travels abroad. Movie nights and walks home from the pub lead them to their fist official date. Upon Brittany's return, the two continued their 2 year long distance relationship. Toughing it out, Brittany and Clark re-united and went on a bucket-list tour of Newfoundland. It was on a beach in Fogo Island that Clark romantically picked a pebble, and proposed. If that isn't cute enough, the two decided to get married on the 5 year anniversary of telling one another they were in love. 

Elegant Productions helped bring Brittany's vision to life with a beautifully treed venue (Healy Farms) and added touches of vibrant Canadian greenery with hints of yellow mustard. Soft tones were paired perfectly with the raw harvest tables and refurbished wood chairs Brittany's late grandfather had crafted over the years. The day was a perfect fit to reflect the spirit and love Brittany and Clark share with one another. It was an honor to capture this day for my friend her new husband. 

Wedding Advice from the couple

1. In their own word's, Brittany and Clark recomends couples take their time with the planning process. Enjoy every minute of the engagement!

2. Invest in a Pro! Help take the heat off by hiring a planner to help turn your vision into reality.

3. Consider stocking non-alcoholic beer and wine for 'cheeky' guests who may secretly be pregnant.
 

NUMBER OF GUESTS -90
PHOTOGRAPHY- BRADY MCCLOSKEY PHOTOGRAPHY
VENUE- HEALY FARMS
OFFICIANT- TERRY MACDONALD
HAIR- LAKEHOUSE (JESSICA FLETCHER)
MAKEUP- ALLISON KIRBY
WEDDING DRESS- PETER TRENDS & BRIDAL BY AUBREY ROSE
GROOM'S SUIT- MOORES
FLORALS- CHELSEA LEA FLOWERS
DECORATOR- ELEGANT PRODUCTIONS
CAKE- CAKES BY LIZ PINCH
CATERING- CERTAINLY CINNAMON
STATIONARY- DULY NOTED
TRANSPORTATION-NEW HOLLAND TRACTOR
VIDEOGRAPHER- ARROW & KNOT
BAND- THE FINE TUNERS

 

Hannah & Michael - Rocky Mountain Wedding in Jasper, Alberta

Wedding date - April 14th, 2107

Hannah is a Jasper girl & Michael is a PEI boy who met while Hannah attended UPEI. After dating for years he proposed on the Island in front of 20 family members, followed by a surprise party with all of their closest friends, with lobster, fireworks, and cake to boot!

When I received the initial email from Hannah & Michael asking if I would consider traveling all the way to Jasper to capture their Spring wedding day, I was completely on board right away! It had been 12 years since I'd seen Jasper and the thought of photographing a wedding there was a dream. I knew Hannah and I had mutual friends and although we had never officially met, I knew she was just as great as everyone always said. Once we met we clicked right away and it was like we had always known each other. 

From the moment I arrived in Jasper, Michael, Hannah, and their families made me feel apart of their group, inviting me to a family BBQ, rehearsal party, and other activities. Everyone was so incredibly friendly, welcoming, and fun! I took some time to hang out, ski, and hike before the wedding as well. If you're also thinking of a destination wedding, let me know! 

Hannah's Dad Warren said that "every good day starts with exercise", so on the morning of the wedding a group of us set off for a 6am hike to Old Fort Point, overlooking Jasper. It was a beautiful morning with a dusting of fresh snow that would later melt that afternoon. We all enjoyed the peace and quiet at the top of the mountain and appreciated being together. After an outdoor ceremony by the river that afternoon (complete with a hail filled canoe arrival!), everyone enjoyed a casual 'outdoor picnic' with a bonfire, marshmallows, homemade beer, snacks, and a rule of only comfy clothes allowed. We travelled around town photographing and followed it up with a party that lasted late into the night. The next morning we had brunch and sadly parted ways, reflecting on an amazing and dreamy experience.

I loved their advice to other couples - do not be afraid to be different because they were so happy with all of their choices! They centered their wedding around everyone having fun, and didn't worry about the tiny details. Thank you Hannah & Michael for being incredible hosts, clients, and now, friends. Cheers to the #Wamsays! 

<3

Photography - Brady McCloskey Photography
Ceremony venue - Jasper airfield
Officiant - Gloria Kongsrud
Hair - Tirza Olsen & Natasha McColl
Makeup - Olivia Tassone & Lyndsey Perharm
Wedding dress - Perfect Pear Bridal
Groom's Suit - Dow's Menswear
Flowers - Weddings by Whitney
Coordinator - Jasper Event Management
DJ - DJ Tommy K
Cake - Cocos Cafe

Reception Venue - Best Western Jasper Inn & Suites
Transportation - Sundog Tours

Karen & Lloyd - Elopement in Avonlea

Karen & Lloyd met and started dating in their home province of Newfoundland 11 years ago. After five years together they decided to pack up and move to Prince Edward Island, to a property they never even saw in person. They now call the Island home, living in between two potato patches just as you would. Inspired by their ongoing happiness and love, they decided to elope this June with a little 5 minute ceremony on the North shore of PEI. With just the two of them, Marsha Weeks, a friend to sign as a witness, and me to sign as the second witness, they had a simple and special ceremony overlooking the water. Being a long time Anne of Green Gables fan, Karen picked the picturesque Avonlea Village for photos of the two of them afterwards. We then spent an hour and a half together, laughing and enjoying their new titles as husband and wife.   

Whether your wedding has so many guests that I can't possibly make my way through them all, or so little that I must sign as a witness, everyone's love is just as special in the end. They said they didn't have one good photo of the two of them, but now there are so many. Thank you to Karen & Lloyd for sharing your happiness with me!

Travel - Australia & New Zealand

I recently returned from one of my favorite trips I've ever done, 5 weeks in Australia and New Zealand! Although I've never been a big fan of photographing landscapes and I actually rarely travel with my camera, this time I put an effort into capturing the beauty around me, enjoying the process, and creating art to have forever. I had such an amazing time exploring and photographing these, and I love the end collection it forms. It was my first solo trip which made for a lot of quiet, relaxing days photographing and enjoying the incredible outdoors. l only brought one camera and used just one lens I hadn't touched in years, the tiny and super travel friendly, Canon 40mm lens. 

This may be something I start to do on more of my trips in the future but until then, I hope you enjoy! 

Australia

During my three weeks in Australia I visited Sydney, Byron Bay, Melbourne, and Wollongong. I soaked up the sun, swam, surfed, visited friends, hiked, and enjoyed many Tim Tams and espresso martinis along the way. 

New Zealand

For almost two weeks I travelled New Zealand, including renting a car and driving over 2000km in 9 days on the South Island. Though I travelled through many places, I spent nights in Queenstown, Te Anau, Invercargill, Dunedin, Wanaka, Lake Tekapo, and Auckland. I spent so much time in the outdoors, hiking, walking, reading, and driving. Kilometre after kilometre, I couldn't believe how dramatic the scenery was and no matter where you went, it never became boring or dull. It truly was an experience I'll never forget.  

Elizabeth & Josh - Saraguay House Wedding in Halifax, NS

Wedding date - October 8th, 2016

So excited to share this wedding day! During the time they were living in Toronto, Liz & Josh contacted me about their Halifax, Nova Scotia wedding at the Saraguay House and I was very interested from the beginning. I photograph the majority of my weddings on Prince Edward Island, but if the timing is right I love to travel too! It was easy to see why Liz & Josh chose the The Saraguay House, it was an amazing backdrop for their east coast wedding and Elegant Productions showcased it all beautifully.

Liz & Josh are a super interesting and fun couple who met at the concert of their mutual friend (who later played during the cocktail hour!). They quickly hit it off, became engaged, and planned their NS wedding, where Josh used to live. Their attitude towards the wedding day was so calm and easy, and they truly enjoyed their time with friends and family. I believe the vibe and the fun that was had shows through in these photos and that is just what you want from your wedding photography. This wedding was also incredible for me as a wedding photographer, so I hope the fun I had also shows through!

Congratulations Liz & Josh!

Wedding date - October 8th, 2016

Planning & Design - Elegant Productions

Reception flowers - DIY by the bride 

Bouquets & boutonnieres - Chelsea Lee Flowers 

Decor rentals - MacFarlands Party Rentals 

Specialty rentals (twinkle lights, votives) - Make Merry Events

Hair - Jessica Fletcher of True Beauty Salon

Make up - Sasha Taylor Makeup Artistry

Liz's Dress - Sarah Seven 

DJ / Uplighting - True North DJs

Stationary - Duly Noted Stationary 

Double Decker - Ambassatours

Band - Chris Gostling & the Tempo 

Pie bar & wedding cake - Jennifer Turner (family friend) 

7 Photos, 7 Stories

Often times there is so much more behind a photograph that we don't see. The backstory can be so important and a photograph only captures this for a split moment. A story can make a photograph, and a photograph can make a story. I've captured thousands of these over the years and don't get enough chances to share them, that's why I've chosen to highlight 7 photos and the stories behind them. Thank you to those who shared their stories with me. 

Enjoy. 

The Tear

I admit, I've been chasing this photo for a long time. Countless times I have stepped behind the bride and her father as they come down the aisle, framing the groom and hoping he will show real emotion in his face. I never like to do things twice, but it's so rare that everything comes together perfectly so I had challenged myself and was determined to capture this shot eventually. On a Summer day in July 2016, I did what I had done many times before and framed this shot of Michael watching Laura and her father walk down the isle. To my selfish delight and excitement, there it was - the full emotion, tears, and woah, wait a minute.....the icing on top, a KLEENEX! YES! Michael was incredibly excited to see his beautiful bride and this photo really preserves that moment. Laura later told me the moment she walked down the isle was her favorite of the day, so being able to capture it like this was really special. This photo became one of my favorites shots from 2016. 

The Dance

Back in 2013 I photographed Carlye & Jon, a wedding day that will always have a special place in my heart. One of the reasons was this particular photo. About a year before their wedding, Carlye's good friend Jacob suffered a traumatic brain injury that confined him to a wheelchair. During his long recovery, he promised Carlye he would stand up and be strong enough to dance with her on her wedding night. After many hard months of rehab and a strong determination, Jacob did what he promised, stood up out of his wheelchair that night, held on to Carlye and slow danced to an entire song. Besides the beautiful music by Ten Strings & A Goat Skin, you could hear a pin drop in the barn that night as all eyes were on this amazing moment. Today, four years later Jacob now doesn't even use a wheelchair and has gone on to be married himself. An amazing turnaround from a person they weren't sure would even survive the air lift to Halifax the night of the injury. 

The Proposal

In the Fall of 2015 Sam booked a session for her, her boyfriend Dylan, and the couple's two dogs. That was all good and I was looking forward to meeting them at Orwell Corner one Sunday afternoon. A couple weeks later I was excited to receive an email from Dylan letting me know he actually planned to propose at their session! We worked out a plan together and waited for the day to come. When that Sunday arrived, it unfortunately was pouring rain but knowing what was about to happen and not wanting to wait for a new day, we both had to convince Sam that yes, it was a great idea to still go ahead - pouring rain and all! In Sam's mind I'm sure there wasn't any logical reason why the session should still happen outdoors, but I brought umbrellas and they showed up as planned. After taking a few photos and trying to stay dry, I set Dylan & Sam up in a perfect location and let the proposal happen. Everything worked out in the end, the rain stopped, and of course, she said YES. Afterwards we all laughed as Sam pieced the whole puzzle together! Such a fun moment to be a part of for two very sweet people.

The Rocks

16 years ago, Len & Brent travelled from Vancouver for their first trip to PEI together. Len is originally from the Island and wanted Brent to experience his home province and meet family, so they packed their bags. After checking into their cottage the evening they arrived, the first place they headed was to the rocks at Cavendish Beach, one the the most picturesque places on the North shore. Years later, in the Summer of 2015 they returned to that very spot to exchange their marriage vows. It was a heart felt and emotional ceremony that really was a beautiful thing to be a part of. As a special touch at the end, Len & Brent walked to the water's edge and tossed in two small glass hearts made by a favorite Vancouver artist. This was a little tribute to the place that is so special to them. Many times they have strolled the beach looking for sea glass and they know some day someone will find those hearts and hopefully experience the same excitement and joy. 

The visit 

For the past 3 years Mary has worked as an RCW worker at the Dr. John Gillis Memorial Lodge in Belfast, PE. Throughout these years she has built strong friendships with the senior residents, laughing with them, caring for them, and helping with daily activities. According to Mary, the residents talk to you about life, they give advice, and they get over the moon excited for you when you share any exciting news - especially an engagement and planning a wedding! Since the residents and staff are like family, they became just as excited about the upcoming wedding as the rest of Mary & Leo's family and friends. Since they were unable to attend, Mary & her husband Leo made it a priority to stop by the lodge on their way to the reception that evening, visiting every guest and every room for a quick Hello, hug, or chat. This particular resident Kenneth has grown fond of Mary over the years, always making her laugh and making sure to share one dance for her every Saturday during the hoedown. He was just one of the residents so excited to see their Mary, who they love so much. Being there to capture everyone's joy and excitement was so much fun to experience. 

The Goat

This past Summer I photographed the fun and energetic wedding of Kelly & Ian, a good time from start to finish. After the speeches were finished that evening I was pulled to the side by the MC and told they had one more surprise gift for the bride and groom. Outside the tent he said was a live GOAT about to be walked in! Ian grew up on a farm while Kelly is a self proclaimed city girl and not who you would call an animal lover at all. Their friends knew how much of a laugh this would bring so they adorned the goat in a "the gift of love" ribbon and walked it into the tent to everyone's shock and surprise - especially Kelly. After the looks of confusion, surprise, and even horror from the bride, everyone had a great laugh. Today, Milly the Goat as she's been called, happily lives on Ian's family farm, frolicking with the families two dogs and enjoying the open space. They now love their new part time goat and Kelly is just happy it wasn't a full time puppy like Ian wanted! 

The Ladybug

Natasha and her Mother were very close when she was growing up. Their 'thing' was always ladybugs and any time either of them would go away without the other, they always brought home a small gift that was ladybug related. This continued for years and the ladybug forever became a special symbol and reminder of Natasha's Mother after she passed away. During visits to the gravestone, or after a rough day, a ladybug would somehow always appear for Natasha when least expected. Even on a January day in -40 weather, Natasha and her husband moved into their new apartment in Alberta and when they arrived for the first time there was a ladybug inside, welcoming them home. After their wedding ceremony in 2014, the sun was shining and guests were mingling in the receiving line. I heard my name called and when I walked over, sure enough a ladybug had landed on her great Aunt's hand - just after they had talked about how much her Mother would have loved the ceremony. It sat there long enough for me to capture this, then gracefully flew away <3 

Katelyn & Patrick - September wedding in Brudenell

Wedding date - September 10th, 2016

Katelyn & Patrick originally met at Montague High and quickly became friends. They attended classes together, were each other's date to Christmas Dance, held hands at the movies, and danced to James Blunt through their awkward teenage years. After high school they kept in touch as they went their separate ways, and later crossed paths again one Summer night, dancing the night away. They kept running into one another again and again that Summer so they decided to give things a go. 

Over the years they lived in different provinces, travelled, graduated university, bought a home as well as a dog and a cat. Wedding talk was never a matter of if, but only a matter of when. They were engaged in December 2015 while walking their pup William on the snowy beach by their future home. This home later became the setting for their wedding ceremony on a gorgeous blue sky day this past September overlooking the Brudenell river. 

I'm lucky to say Kate & Patrick are friends of mine and they are the type of people everyone loves to have around. They have many friends and there were a lot of fun personalities in attendance which made for a great day, and a great night. It was an honor to document their wedding day! Congratulations to The Drakes!

guests - 162

Hair - Natlaie McCarthy & Julie Vandenbroek

Makeup - Megan Wilson at Lambretta's

Wedding dress - watters wtoo from chester & felicity's

Groom's suit - tip top tailors

Florals - house of flowers

band - The wannabeez

cake - candi's cakes

caterer - montague lion's club

reception venue - montague curling club

stationary - minted

hair piece - oh dina!

photography - brady mccloskey photography

Josie & Nick - November wedding at PEI Brewing Company

Wedding date - November 26th, 2016

Josie & Nick have already been together a whole 12 years, since they were little high school kids in grade 10 and 11! After high school they both completed their university degrees and began 4 years of long distance, which ultimately made their relationship stronger. Being a doctor and a nurse, their careers have taken them from Charlottetown, to Halifax and now to their new home in Kelowna, BC. However, when it came to planning their wedding they returned to PEI for the big day. We started their photos at Josie's parent's home and then headed to the Prince Edward Island Brewery for their wedding ceremony and reception. 

I often get asked if I enjoy photographing my friends, and the answer is always YES! There were so many members of the wedding party, family, and guests that I knew and it made the experience even better. Starting with one of the most real and emotional first looks I've ever captured, Josie & Nick's entire event was a joy to be a part of. Their love is so strong and evident to everyone around them, it really was a beautiful thing to see. Plus, don't they look so great together?!

Congratulations to The Mooneys! 

Makeup - AMP Hair and Makeup Artistry

Hair - Divine Hair Design

Bride's dress - Karma Bridal, Zachary Alexander

Groom's suit - Tip Top Tailors

Florals - Branches & Blooms

Officiant - Brenda Bulger

Band - Vintage

Venue - PEI Brewing Company 

Lindsey & Derek - Married in their own backyard

wedding date - September 27th, 2016

In the winter of 2013, Lindsey & Derek connected in Canmore, Alberta and went skiing for their first date. What was supposed to be a couple hour long date turned into the entire day as they laughed and chatted the whole time, feeling as though they had met each other ages ago. Since then they have been back and forth between Derek's home on PEI, and Lindsey's home in Alberta. When it was time to plan the wedding day, their cottage in Rollo Bay, PEI became the perfect setting. It was a rainy ceremony but with their positive and fun attitudes, it was hardly noticed.

Lindsey & Derek are incredibly laid back and easy to be around. Their wedding day reflected this from the start and the main priority was for guests to be as relaxed as possible. As Lindsey put it - "We broke every rule we could...no assigned seating, ditched the cake and formalities, sat on hay bails and just had a ton of laughs and love." 

One of their favorite moments of the day was when Derek surprising Lindsey with professional highland dancers and bagpipers at the reception! Lindsey used to teach highland dance and it has been a tradition in the family to dance at each other's weddings. They had the entire barn moving so Lindsey and her sister even joined in on the fun. 

I hope you will enjoy all the laughs and moments from this day as much as I did. Thank you another amazing couple, and congratulations to The Hennesseys!

Ceremony venue - private home

Reception venue - Rollo Bay Fiddle Festival

Officiant - brenda bulger

Hair - Kerri Dawn

makeup - amp hair and makeup artistry

flowers - stephanie compton

Band - Larque

Stationary - vistaprint

Transportation - COach atlantic 

Entertainment - The College of Piping

photography - brady mccloskey

Venessa & Fabian - Waterfront Wedding in Shediac, NB

Wedding date - September 17th, 2016

Venessa & Fabian met 6 years ago through mutual friends at a NYE party in Halifax, Nova Scotia. After only dating for a short time, they spontaneously booked a trip to the Caribbean which turns out would be the start of many more travel adventures together. The pair were engaged a few years later when Fabian popped the question right before their big European vacation. They spent those next three weeks basking in their engagement bliss!

Their September wedding day was a relaxed and casual affair with the ceremony taking place in Venessa's parent's backyard in the community of Grande-Digue, outside Shediac, New Brunswick. The blue sky, warm breeze, and water views made for an incredible set up. Two friendly and welcoming families came together that day, making for a wonderful time. Fabian and I are first cousins, so their day was even more special for me! Ven & Fabian are just the type of people you want to be around. Their caring and genuine personalities made every guest proud to be a part of their wedding day, one we will always remember. 

Congratulations Venessa & Fabian! 

Reception venue - Notre Centre

Makeup - Irresistible Hair Fashion

Dress - Vera Wang, David's Bridal

Groom's suit - Moore's

Florals - Costco

Decor - Imagination Decor

DJ - DJ Funk

Dessert - Cow's Ice Cream

Photography - brady mccloskey photography

Mary & Leo - Backyard wedding in Orwell, PEI

Wedding date - august 26th, 2016

Mary & Leo's relationship took off after they both travelled for a mission trip to Haiti in 2012. During that time they spent many days and nights talking about life and how they both viewed it. After returning to PEI with a new outlook, they spent every day together and began their series of adventures and travels, including a working holiday which took them all across Canada in an old RV. They eventually settled and bought a farmhouse in Pinette, PEI where they now grow turnips and look after their chickens, goats, horses, and more. One night at the farm in 2015, Mary arrived home from work at midnight to find a note telling her to go out to their beloved RV in the backyard. She opened the door to find Leo on one knee with the ring, and the rest was history! 

Mary & Leo's wedding day was focused on the simple thing that is the true core of a wedding - family & friends coming together to celebrate the married couple in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. They are both such chill, easy going people who care so much about everyone around them and it was a real pleasure to experience it all. From their backyard ceremony at a friend's house, to their casual reception outside the barn at their farmhouse, it all felt right and we had a fantastic time. Thank you so much to Leo & Mary for choosing me to document the day! 

Officiant - Pastor Bill Arsenault

Hair - Divine Hair design

Makeup - Nuala Casey

Dress - Sugar & Spice

Flowers - House of Flowers

DJ - DJ Newf

Videographer - Shane Mallard

Photographer - Brady McCloskey Photography