I’ve known of Kurtz Orchard for years, mostly as the landmark for the road to take between Ravine Winery in Virgil and the town of Niagara on the Lake. What I didn’t know was that behind it’s modest roadside market facade lies a secret garden utopia of natural arches and flowering laneways, pond-side lawns and shady groves, and of course, rows upon rows of apple trees.

It is an ideal space for an outdoor wedding. Romantic. Subtle. Brimming with natural beauty.

Christine wore a traditional heavily embroidered 2-piece outfit for the Chinese tea ceremony, which was relaxed and heartfelt, charged with messages of kindness, love and familial wisdom. Then she swapped out the heavy silk for an airy cap-sleeved dress that was just so perfectly simple and suited to her: vintagey but also modern, classy and romantic, feminine yet practical. I love this dress…and I love how relaxed and in the moment Christine looks all day as she wears it. Rocco is quick to burst into smiles, as the day plays out.

They have a short & sweet ceremony at the edge of a gazebo, sun-kissed and sincere. A song ardently sung by Rocco’s mom during the signing triggers some tears, and then, all joy.

Pink blossoms, peonies and pond frogs.

A blazing hot sun. Flower girls with bubbles. Wooden tables and cane chairs.

A billowing white tent. Cider barrels.  Fine cheese and macaroons.

We capture photos all over this amazing property while the garden party ensues. Happy dads. Windblown bridesmaids.  Room to roam.

These two fall beautifully into stride together—as they execute their vows, as they dance their first dance, as they attend to every word of every speech. They are two clearly connected individuals–it shows.

Christine’s father’s sang a rewritten rendition of El Condor Pasa, acapella. Sheer brilliance.

Every parent danced with every other parent. Every person danced, period.

Sunsets over wine country.

Thanks for this C & R. May all your wishes come true.