The Brigadoon Restaurant

I enjoyed photographing the Brigadoon for owner, Cheryl Mackey as she is preparing to update her website, brochures and business cards. It reminded me of how wrong I can be at times.

Many years ago this historic building had been a general store, gift shop and then an antique store. The building was sold and we had heard that a restaurant was going to be there. When I heard it was going to be a "fine dining" restaurant I was astonished. I could not imagine that people would drive to the tiny rural village of Oxford Mills. How WRONG I was.

People travel from all over eastern Ontario, Quebec and New York state to have lunch or supper here. Once I ran into a couple from Pennsylvania who were returning for their fourth visit. Often when I am photographing weddings, guests will ask me where I am from. When I respond Oxford Mills, their 100% response is, "Oh, where the Brigadoon is ! I've been there."

This is one of those times, I'm really pleased that I was wrong. Ted and I will celebrate our 39th anniversary at the Brigadoon. I can hardly wait to see what will be on the menu that night.

Laura & Shane Tie The Knot

Saturday, June 13th - A perfect day for a perfect couple. Laura Wright and Shane Glasper joined hands in St Brigid's church in front of family and friends to declare their love and commitment for each other. Young Jacob Wright had the guests in awe as he read the scriptures. The love that surrounds this young couple was evident with more than one tear being shed.

Everyone gathered at Laura, Shane and Jacob's home which had been transformed into an outdoor bistro with live music, drinks and delicious food. Congratulations Laura and Shane, you deserve all the best!

Stephanie & Ron Engagement

The green of the maple sugarbush in the spring is crisp, lively and warm. And so it made the perfect location for Stephanie and Ron to have their engagement photos done. Along for the ride was their adorable dog, "Cooper" (honest that is his name).

They will celebrate their wedding on September 26/09 at their farm with friends and family in a loving and relaxed manner. My heartfelt congratulations goes out to both of you.

A Thoughtful Moment

Recently at our grandson Rhett's third birthday party, I captured an image that personally struck a strong chord. Rhett had just opened his presents, John Deer tractor, loaders etc and his best friend Olin Hutt was anxious to play with the new toys.

Rhett, usually very good at sharing was acting like a little pack rat and trying to keep all the new treasures closely protected. At this point Olin's father perceiving the situation perfectly, quietly called Olin over and explained that these were Rhett's new toys and he should be allowed to play with them first.

Derek spoke so quietly and sympathetically to Olin and Olin looked right into his father's eyes, taking in every word spoken. Olin just nodded his understanding and went off to the sand pile to play with an "old John Deere tractor".

It was a wonderful moment between a man and his son.

What A Surprise!

I had the pleasure of photographing Monika and Rob and their four boys last fall. Julie Torok, sister of Monika, married to Chris Lang were also part of the session with their son and daughter.

When Monika contacted me to do a short coverage of a wedding, I assumed it was for a friend. As my husband says, "One should never assume!" It was the happiest surprise when I discovered the bride and groom were Monika and Rob. After being together for sixteen years they decided to get married. Immediate family gathered at Dows Lake and then went on to Giovanis where the service was held. The lighting of the unity candle included Monika, Rob and each of the boys. It was a unity "flame" that was symbolic of this great family.

The group then had a celebratory meal at Giovanis - and what a meal it was! Later that evening 150 guests joined the couple to celebrate what they thought was Monika and Rob's 40th birthdays. I wish I could have seen the look on their faces as their wedding announcement was made.

My sincerest congratulations and I thank you for being part of such a heartfelt occasion.