Marissa and Kevin are both storytellers by trade. They understand what is truly important to any story, including their own; her Great-Grandmother's repurposed Kimono as a wedding dress, flowers grown by a loving mother, family gathered snug in a home that told a story all it's own... M&K's charming backyard wedding ending at Lapinou Restaurant in Toronto was full of love, family, and fantastic food, making it rife for wedding day moments and stories. I was honoured to be the chosen visual storyteller for this particularly special day.

Love and Family First

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly Marissa and Kevin. These two are warmth personified! Since they live in the US, their wedding day in Toronto was actually our first in-person meeting. This has the potential to be a little awkward given the nerves and energy of a wedding day but they greeted me with giagantic smiles and huge hugs, immediately putting me at ease. K&M's love for each other and for their family was evident in every moment and in all the sweet personal touches they incorporated into the day. Their focus on spending time with family and friends instead of getting caught up in extravagant details made the day even more special.

A Personal Ceremony in the Backyard

The intimate ceremony took place in Marissa’s parents' backyard, amidst the beautiful garden lovingly tended by Marissa's mom Mari. This beautiful outdoor setting allowed guests to fully engage in the moment. I didn't see a single phone in sight. Marissa's awesome Aunt served as the officiant for their incredibly heartfelt vows before the pair tucked into the house to legally sign their marriage documents. A relaxed cocktail hour followed in the same cozy space, where everyone enjoyed sun, delicious treats, and great company. Kevin & Marissa mingled and toasted before we snuck away to take some photos. The couple chose to wander a park that was special to our sweet bride before we made our way into the heart of Toronto for dinner.

A Dream Wedding Venue: Lapinou Restaurant

Lapinou Restaurant is a hidden gem in Toronto, ideal for couples looking for an intimate wedding venue. The cozy ambiance creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels more like a family gathering than a formal event. The vibes are 10/10 and the food is even better! Every detail reflected Marissa and Kevin’s personalities, making it a truly personalized experience.

As a Toronto wedding photographer, I've had the honour of capturing hundreds of weddings across the city (and beyond). Kevin & Marissa's wedding day will always stand out for its warmth and simplicity. They didn't get caught up in the abundance of trends or "must have" wedding ideas out there, instead they focused on the people they loved the most. This celebration was all about family, delicious food, and genuine love, making it a day to remember. It was a privilege to capture all the heartfelt moments—smiles, laughter, and of course some tears. Witnessing the love and connections between family and friends made this day truly special. Thank you K&M for welcoming me into your beautiful story for the day - I'm so grateful that you chose me to capture it for you!

Vendor Team Shoutouts

Venue & Dining: Lapinou
Coordination: Aly & Co. Weddings & Events
DJ: Spectrum Agency
Florals: Mother of the Bride
Dress: Brides by Liza

Want to peep more intimate Toronto weddings? Check out this cozy day on Toronto Island!