Irina (the beautiful Romanian bride) and I go years back. We met during what now feels like my “previous life”, while I was transitioning from the corporate world into my heart’s desire. I was thrilled when she connected with me at the beginning of the year to ask if I would photograph her wedding. It was such a magical way to come full circle and share who we have become, one of the privileges my creative occupation offers.
I can’t think of a better way to get a glimpse into someone else’s story.
Everything about Irina and her Australian beau Dean’s love saga is special and inspiring: they met in Thailand briefly, went separate ways but kept in touch. I asked Irina: “Did you know right then and there”? She said “Yes!”. She was so sure she wanted to explore this connection that she went to visit Dean in Australia over a weekend! The rest was…history. Dean decided to leave his life behind and join his love in Canada. More so, they are now expecting their first baby. This surely beats some of the romantic movies out there and reinforces the old saying “what is meant to be, will be”.
Loved this fun couple’s entourage: there was a beautiful Australian accent in the air (as many of the groomsmen, Dean’s buddies, happily came as a group from Australia), mixed in with the Romanian spoken by Irina’s family’s guests (some of whom came all the way from our home country). This made for very touching, emotion filled speeches which did not leave many dry eyes at reception.

Irina and Dean, thank you for having chosen me to tell your incredible story through my lens. I wish you many joyous years together, filled with abundance and of course, a lot of love. Yours, Manuela.

Wedding venue: Glenerin Inn & Spa
Bride’s dress: Stella York
Bride’s hair & Makeup: Lorenzo Salon and Spa
Groom’s suit: Tip Top Tailors

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