This unique story starts with Winnie hinting that she’d like to keep her hand diamond-free. Because of her tiny clue, Danny knew that his proposal would need a little flare – and so, a lightsabre would be his “engagement ring” – and the eventual symbol of their wedding day.

We arrived at the getting ready party to find the groomsmen donning Star Wars themed socks, hankies and boutonnieres. Adorable. But, sharp! The moment that Winnie and her bridesmaids were ready, we ventured out to a park that held sentimental value for the couple. It was great because the connection they felt in the park instantly set us up for an amazing “first-look”.

In a few clicks of my shutter, Winnie and Danny’s neighbourhood dogwalker approached with their adorable dogs. Of course, they requested “family portraits” with their furry kids. And, because we love all sorts of families, we stepped up with excitement.

A modern Mercedes limo-van then whisked us off to Tiddly Cove (aka Caulfeild Park) for the wedding party photos. Little did we know that it would turn out to be one of Winnie’s favourite photo and film moments.

“At the time, it was rainy and windy. We definitely weren’t dressed to hike up and down a rock face. I was wise enough to have worn leg-warmers under my dress. Everyone was pretty unimpressed. We certainly weren’t feeling it, but the pictures didn’t show it. The most epic picture of all was taken in that cold rainy wet moment.” ~Winnie

Smitten Events was invited to run with the creative aspect of the wedding day. Let’s just say that they were right on point when it came to blending a Sci-Fantasy movie theme with stunning details.

Smitten Events filled us in on their collective creativity:

“We loved the challenge of creating a modern, glam wedding with a touch of Star Wars. We teamed up with Bespoke Decor to come up with a design. Working with a palette of navy, blush and gold, the Star Wars elements playfully unfolded in the form of signage, stationery and mementos from Danny’s childhood — his Mom literally sent us a box of Star Wars goodies from their basement.

“We especially loved the amazing Star Wars candy buffet that Bespoke Decor created. Winnie & Danny’s wedding logo (light sabres, of course) was transferred, by Bespoke Decor, onto chalk boards and calligraphy signs to create a cohesive design. And, we softened the Star Wars theme with loose, blush toned arrangements by Garden Party Flowers. Xerographicas, Winnie’s favourite air plant, and Cafe au Lait dahlias were featured throughout.”

Winnie and Danny’s ceremony was planned for the upper floor of the newest venue on Lonsdale, The View. However, Smitten Events made a quick call to bring it inside when the wind and the rain picked up. With energy and attention to detail, the team arranged the reception area into a stunning space for the ceremony. It felt like Smitten Events had planned it to be that way.

With a chuckle, Danny professed to fight with Winnie against the Darkside. While holding the tears at bay, Winnie agreed. Once declared husband and wife, they crossed light-sabres as a symbol of their unity. Then they danced their way back down the aisle, while friends and family cheered them on.

Smitten needed a few minutes to make the quick switch, from ceremony to reception party. And since the wicked weather had subsided, we ventured out onto the patio for a few photos. Moments into our impromptu session with family and friends, two Storm Troopers stepped out onto the deck.

The tears that Winnie had so proudly held back during the ceremony, started to flow down her face. It was a surprise that neither Winnie nor Danny were expecting. Without any luck, the couple had tried to arrange Storm Troopers long before their wedding day. But as the day approached, Smitten Events found a way to pull it together.

Who knew that Storm Troopers would be such a hit?! We shot footage and images for the couple, but everyone wanted a selfie – including us! The Star Wars characters were an amazing addition to the theme.

The sweetheart table was gorgeous. The catering was wonderful. The speeches during dinner were hilarious. Danny’s dad captured the spirit of the day with Star Wars pun after Star Wars pun. His testimony, “Winnie, I know you are the Obi Wan for Danny,” got a real roar from the crowd. Friends and family shared more stories of growing up with Danny and Winnie, and everyone agreed these two, with their love of motorcycles, were made for each other.

Danny and Winnie forewent the ceremonious first dance by encouraging everyone to rock out to Billy Idol’s, “White Wedding”. Again, Smitten Events had transformed the room. This time they created an amazing space for dancing, that included a super cool seating arrangement for friends and family who would rather watch the dancing mayhem than partake.

All in all, Danny and Winnie’s day was full of wit and casual romance. I am honoured when Cascades Photo + Video has the chance to spend the day with wonderful people who love each other, their family and their friends, just as much as they love life. Best wishes to Danny and Winnie.
May the force be with you!