Travel - Portland, Oregon

Years ago I read an article in The Globe & Mail about Portland's interesting vibe and culture and that made me so curious to check it out one day. Since I was heading to Vancouver/Whistler this January, I booked a multi city flight to Portland for 3 nights on the way! I had been excited to see the city and the forests and they did not disappoint. I even managed to dodge most of the rainy weather that Portland is known for. 

The food and drink options in Portland were everywhere, and overwhelming at times. Everyone had a suggestion on where I could find the best of this and that, but it was so fun to eat my way through every day. The donuts, the beer & cider, the ice cream, the breakfasts.....everything was delicious. 

A few things I loved about Portland:

  • Every area of the city had something interesting, or somewhere amazing to eat

  • Transit was so great and easy and day passes were only $5!

  • Food trucks (or carts) were embraced and were all over the city, including circling an entire block downtown

  • Forest Park (where all these forest photos were taken) was just a short ride away on transit and held a gigantic network of trails of all skill levels.

  • Portland has the world's largest independent bookstore. Powell's City of Books is so fun to walk around and get lost in.

  • Bike lanes were everywhere, Portland is referred to as "Bike City USA"

  • Everyone drives a Subaru!

  • There are around 70 microbreweries in Portland

If you find yourself in the Pacific Northwest, consider stopping into Portland. I plan to be back one day to check out more of the surrounding forests and mountains, and to drive out to the coast. Until next time! 

7 Photos, 7 Stories

Often times there is so much more behind a photograph that we don't see. The backstory can be so important and a photograph only captures this for a split moment. A story can make a photograph, and a photograph can make a story. I've captured thousands of these over the years and don't get enough chances to share them, that's why I've chosen to highlight 7 photos and the stories behind them. Thank you to those who shared their stories with me. 

Enjoy. 

The Tear

I admit, I've been chasing this photo for a long time. Countless times I have stepped behind the bride and her father as they come down the aisle, framing the groom and hoping he will show real emotion in his face. I never like to do things twice, but it's so rare that everything comes together perfectly so I had challenged myself and was determined to capture this shot eventually. On a Summer day in July 2016, I did what I had done many times before and framed this shot of Michael watching Laura and her father walk down the isle. To my selfish delight and excitement, there it was - the full emotion, tears, and woah, wait a minute.....the icing on top, a KLEENEX! YES! Michael was incredibly excited to see his beautiful bride and this photo really preserves that moment. Laura later told me the moment she walked down the isle was her favorite of the day, so being able to capture it like this was really special. This photo became one of my favorites shots from 2016. 

The Dance

Back in 2013 I photographed Carlye & Jon, a wedding day that will always have a special place in my heart. One of the reasons was this particular photo. About a year before their wedding, Carlye's good friend Jacob suffered a traumatic brain injury that confined him to a wheelchair. During his long recovery, he promised Carlye he would stand up and be strong enough to dance with her on her wedding night. After many hard months of rehab and a strong determination, Jacob did what he promised, stood up out of his wheelchair that night, held on to Carlye and slow danced to an entire song. Besides the beautiful music by Ten Strings & A Goat Skin, you could hear a pin drop in the barn that night as all eyes were on this amazing moment. Today, four years later Jacob now doesn't even use a wheelchair and has gone on to be married himself. An amazing turnaround from a person they weren't sure would even survive the air lift to Halifax the night of the injury. 

The Proposal

In the Fall of 2015 Sam booked a session for her, her boyfriend Dylan, and the couple's two dogs. That was all good and I was looking forward to meeting them at Orwell Corner one Sunday afternoon. A couple weeks later I was excited to receive an email from Dylan letting me know he actually planned to propose at their session! We worked out a plan together and waited for the day to come. When that Sunday arrived, it unfortunately was pouring rain but knowing what was about to happen and not wanting to wait for a new day, we both had to convince Sam that yes, it was a great idea to still go ahead - pouring rain and all! In Sam's mind I'm sure there wasn't any logical reason why the session should still happen outdoors, but I brought umbrellas and they showed up as planned. After taking a few photos and trying to stay dry, I set Dylan & Sam up in a perfect location and let the proposal happen. Everything worked out in the end, the rain stopped, and of course, she said YES. Afterwards we all laughed as Sam pieced the whole puzzle together! Such a fun moment to be a part of for two very sweet people.

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The Rocks

16 years ago, Len & Brent travelled from Vancouver for their first trip to PEI together. Len is originally from the Island and wanted Brent to experience his home province and meet family, so they packed their bags. After checking into their cottage the evening they arrived, the first place they headed was to the rocks at Cavendish Beach, one the the most picturesque places on the North shore. Years later, in the Summer of 2015 they returned to that very spot to exchange their marriage vows. It was a heart felt and emotional ceremony that really was a beautiful thing to be a part of. As a special touch at the end, Len & Brent walked to the water's edge and tossed in two small glass hearts made by a favorite Vancouver artist. This was a little tribute to the place that is so special to them. Many times they have strolled the beach looking for sea glass and they know some day someone will find those hearts and hopefully experience the same excitement and joy. 

The visit 

For the past 3 years Mary has worked as an RCW worker at the Dr. John Gillis Memorial Lodge in Belfast, PE. Throughout these years she has built strong friendships with the senior residents, laughing with them, caring for them, and helping with daily activities. According to Mary, the residents talk to you about life, they give advice, and they get over the moon excited for you when you share any exciting news - especially an engagement and planning a wedding! Since the residents and staff are like family, they became just as excited about the upcoming wedding as the rest of Mary & Leo's family and friends. Since they were unable to attend, Mary & her husband Leo made it a priority to stop by the lodge on their way to the reception that evening, visiting every guest and every room for a quick Hello, hug, or chat. This particular resident Kenneth has grown fond of Mary over the years, always making her laugh and making sure to share one dance for her every Saturday during the hoedown. He was just one of the residents so excited to see their Mary, who they love so much. Being there to capture everyone's joy and excitement was so much fun to experience. 

The Goat

This past Summer I photographed the fun and energetic wedding of Kelly & Ian, a good time from start to finish. After the speeches were finished that evening I was pulled to the side by the MC and told they had one more surprise gift for the bride and groom. Outside the tent he said was a live GOAT about to be walked in! Ian grew up on a farm while Kelly is a self proclaimed city girl and not who you would call an animal lover at all. Their friends knew how much of a laugh this would bring so they adorned the goat in a "the gift of love" ribbon and walked it into the tent to everyone's shock and surprise - especially Kelly. After the looks of confusion, surprise, and even horror from the bride, everyone had a great laugh. Today, Milly the Goat as she's been called, happily lives on Ian's family farm, frolicking with the families two dogs and enjoying the open space. They now love their new part time goat and Kelly is just happy it wasn't a full time puppy like Ian wanted! 

The Ladybug

Natasha and her Mother were very close when she was growing up. Their 'thing' was always ladybugs and any time either of them would go away without the other, they always brought home a small gift that was ladybug related. This continued for years and the ladybug forever became a special symbol and reminder of Natasha's Mother after she passed away. During visits to the gravestone, or after a rough day, a ladybug would somehow always appear for Natasha when least expected. Even on a January day in -40 weather, Natasha and her husband moved into their new apartment in Alberta and when they arrived for the first time there was a ladybug inside, welcoming them home. After their wedding ceremony in 2014, the sun was shining and guests were mingling in the receiving line. I heard my name called and when I walked over, sure enough a ladybug had landed on her great Aunt's hand - just after they had talked about how much her Mother would have loved the ceremony. It sat there long enough for me to capture this, then gracefully flew away <3 

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Katelyn & Patrick - September wedding in Brudenell

Wedding date - September 10th, 2016

Katelyn & Patrick originally met at Montague High and quickly became friends. They attended classes together, were each other's date to Christmas Dance, held hands at the movies, and danced to James Blunt through their awkward teenage years. After high school they kept in touch as they went their separate ways, and later crossed paths again one Summer night, dancing the night away. They kept running into one another again and again that Summer so they decided to give things a go. 

Over the years they lived in different provinces, travelled, graduated university, bought a home as well as a dog and a cat. Wedding talk was never a matter of if, but only a matter of when. They were engaged in December 2015 while walking their pup William on the snowy beach by their future home. This home later became the setting for their wedding ceremony on a gorgeous blue sky day this past September overlooking the Brudenell river. 

I'm lucky to say Kate & Patrick are friends of mine and they are the type of people everyone loves to have around. They have many friends and there were a lot of fun personalities in attendance which made for a great day, and a great night. It was an honor to document their wedding day! Congratulations to The Drakes!

guests - 162

Hair - Natlaie McCarthy & Julie Vandenbroek

Makeup - Megan Wilson at Lambretta's

Wedding dress - watters wtoo from chester & felicity's

Groom's suit - tip top tailors

Florals - house of flowers

band - The wannabeez

cake - candi's cakes

caterer - montague lion's club

reception venue - montague curling club

stationary - minted

hair piece - oh dina!

photography - brady mccloskey photography

Josie & Nick - November wedding at PEI Brewing Company

Wedding date - November 26th, 2016

Josie & Nick have already been together a whole 12 years, since they were little high school kids in grade 10 and 11! After high school they both completed their university degrees and began 4 years of long distance, which ultimately made their relationship stronger. Being a doctor and a nurse, their careers have taken them from Charlottetown, to Halifax and now to their new home in Kelowna, BC. However, when it came to planning their wedding they returned to PEI for the big day. We started their photos at Josie's parent's home and then headed to the Prince Edward Island Brewery for their wedding ceremony and reception. 

I often get asked if I enjoy photographing my friends, and the answer is always YES! There were so many members of the wedding party, family, and guests that I knew and it made the experience even better. Starting with one of the most real and emotional first looks I've ever captured, Josie & Nick's entire event was a joy to be a part of. Their love is so strong and evident to everyone around them, it really was a beautiful thing to see. Plus, don't they look so great together?!

Congratulations to The Mooneys! 

Makeup - AMP Hair and Makeup Artistry

Hair - Divine Hair Design

Bride's dress - Karma Bridal, Zachary Alexander

Groom's suit - Tip Top Tailors

Florals - Branches & Blooms

Officiant - Brenda Bulger

Band - Vintage

Venue - PEI Brewing Company 

Laura & Michael - Blue Sky Wedding Day in Clinton, PEI

Wedding date - July 2, 2016

Laura & Michael met 4 years ago at the Halifax Hypothermic Half Marathon after she saw Michael needed a ride home because of a bus strike. After chatting on the way to his house, they realized they had a mutual friend and were both invited to the same upcoming party on Friday. After dropping him off, Laura didn't expect to see him again but Michael had other plans. The party came and after Michael pretended to be surprised to see her there, they both hit it off that evening and later decided to go on a date. After two years of dating Michael & Laura got engaged at Canoe Cove Beach while visiting PEI for a bike race. Even though neither are Islanders, Laura always dreamed her wedding day would be on Prince Edward Island. Who could blame her?

Thank you to Laura & Michael for such a fun day photographing your wedding celebration. Everything came together in such a perfect way and you really showcased the Island to your guests. I am so thankful to have been able to capture it all and wish you nothing but the best in all of life's adventures going forward! Congratulations Mr & Mrs Gfeller! 

Number of guests - 68
Photographer - Brady McCloskey Photography
Venue - Clinton Hills
DJ - Music Express
Cake - Sweet Pea Creations
Bouqets & boutonnieres - Island Meadow Farms
Hair & Makeup - Bounce! Hair Studio
 

2015 Favorites

From East Point to North Cape, from Belfast to Cape Egmont, from PEI to New Brunswick, 2015 has taken me far and wide capturing the moments that matter to you. I sincerely cannot thank each and every client enough for putting their trust in me this year. It's been an honor capturing every wedding, family, couple, commercial job, and everything else in between. 

Each year I sift through every session to choose my personal favorite shots to share. For many different reasons these shots are just a few of the ones that stick with me. I hope you enjoy this collection and I cannot wait to see what 2016's will bring. 

Enjoy,

Caroline & TJ - Cliffside Wedding in Cascumpec, PEI

Wedding date - August.28th, 2015

Every time I travel "West" for a wedding, it always ends up being such a fun day filled with the most friendly and fun loving people. TJ & Caroline's day was no exception - including a party bus, oyster bar, and a cliffside ceremony. TJ and his groomsmen even arrived at the ceremony in a pontoon boat, how fun is that?

Caroline & TJ have been together for years and their friendship and love for each other was obvious on their wedding day. I love to see couples who are best friends, and that was the case for these two. Congratulations to the new Mrs & Mr Campbell! 

Reception venue - The Loyalist Country Inn

Transportation - Ultimate Limo Bus 

Photography - Brady McCloskey Photography

Erin & Nick - Patio Wedding at The Shipyard

Wedding date - September.4th, 2015

I love the story of Erin & Nick. They dated when they were younger, parted ways, and both moved off of PEI to pursue their careers. Years later, they both moved back to the Island around the same time, got in touch, and reconnected. The rest as they say was history and in September of this year they tied the knot :)

Their fun loving, caring, & energetic attitudes carried them through their wedding day, enjoying every minute. They put full trust in their photo and video teams and the results were fantastic. After a breezy, warm, & sunny afternoon of photos they stood on the patio at The Shipyard to say their vows as the sun started to set. It was my absolute pleasure to spend this day with them, and I hope you love this wedding and these photos as much as I do.

Enjoy,

Decor - Unique Event Decor

Florals - Prestige Floral Studio

Videography - Lowell Productions

Venue - The Shipyard

Marriage Officiant - Weddings PEI by Diana

 

Holly & Steven - East Point Lighthouse wedding

Wedding date - July 25th, 2015

With the prayer beads hung on the line and the outdoor ceremony already set up, we all hoped for a day without rain for Holly & Steven. At the time of their wedding day Holly & Steven were living right beside East Point Lighthouse on a beautiful property overlooking the ocean. They chose this location for their outdoor ceremony and ended up with the perfect day. The sky was moody and blue which made for a striking contrast between the red cliffs and green grass of East Point. 

One of the things that struck me about this pair was their love for their daughter Taylor and how they incorporated her into all aspects of their engagement session, and their wedding day. It wasn't just a couple we were photographing starting their married lives, it was the three of them together, as one. Family was an especially important part of their day and it was an honor to photograph those moments.

Congratulations Holly & Steven! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness.

Megan & Travis - Rodd Brudenell River Resort Wedding

Wedding date - August.29th, 2015 

Oh, what a day!

Megan & Travis met a few years ago through a mutual friend during their university days in Halifax. Travis, from Ontario was living with one of Megan's friends from PEI, and their first encounter came when she visited their house one day. After she left Travis asked his roommate who that amazing girl was, and the rest was history....

Megan & Travis wed on a sunny, mild day in August with an outdoor ceremony at the Rodd Brudenell River Resort, with all photos taken beforehand. They both got ready with friends and family, headed outside for their first look, and casually took photos while walking around the beautiful, riverside property. Before leaving Megan & Travis that evening I told them they had the most amazing attitude towards their wedding day that made it exactly everything it should have been. They were giddy, laughing, crying, and and above all, having FUN - the most important thing. Their love and excitement was contagious and they clearly had their best day ever. I'm so happy I was able to capture it.

Len & Brent - Oceanside cavendish wedding

Wedding date - august 13th, 2015

On their first trip to PEI together, the first place Len & Brent visited after checking into their cottage was the rocks at Cavendish Beach. That evening they took a walk on the path, headed down to the rocks, and enjoyed the views of beautiful Prince Edward Island. That trip was the first of countless times over the years that they would visit Len's home province together, visiting family and taking a break from city life in Vancouver.

After many years together they decided the timing was right and quietly got married on a Thursday afternoon this past Summer. For their ceremony location they thought of no better place to say their handwritten vows than returning to the same spot they had visited that evening15 years ago, the rocks at Cavendish Beach. 

Capturing the love of Len & Brent was one of the most memorable days I've ever had as a photographer. Their excitement, nervousness, and joy to be getting married was so special to see and throughout the entire day all of us could clearly see what a strong bond they had together. What an opportunity it was to capture such a wonderful day. 

Enjoy,

Officiant - Dianna Lariviere

Videographer - Serious Media