Bride, Hailey and Groom, Shoma, didn’t have the day they anticipated (#covid19), but their day was nothing short of magical and heartfelt. They had done long-distance between Japan and Canada dating (and engagement)  for a few years, and if that wasn’t already challening enough, the world decided to have a world-wide pandemic limiting any and all potential of flying to visit one another. Weddings have proven to be difficult in months of lockdowns, but an international couple with family all over the world made this particular day full of unexpected changes. Yet, Hailey and Shoma persevered to have a small intimate wedding on Canadian soil (yes, they followed ALL rules and still made it happen – they deserve a medal or ten lol).

Their ceremony was raw, emotional, God-honouring, joyfilled, and felt a triumphant close of a long season of waiting for a promise to come. While they kept their invite list to the allowed guest count allowed at the time, a few close friends set up a “picnic” in the park to witness their best friend marry her love (and it was truly touching to see). Their personal vows outlined the depths of their love for Jesus, their love for each other, and the value of waiting for each other. There wasn’t a dry eye when Shoma expressed his relief that after years of saying “goodbye” for months at a time, this was the day they no longer had to say goodbye. He concluded his vows with this verse from Ruth 1:6

“… Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live.
Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.”

Hailey and Shoma, thank-you for entrusting me to capture your wedding day. I pray and wish you both the absolute best in this new season of marriage.

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Florist: Halliday House & Co.
Decor: Happenings Party Rentals
Videographer:  Jesse Marshal