Ok, ok, I know I’ve been a bad blogger, but I promise I will blog my trip to Japan very soon. But here is some news from the office of Lisa Kwan Images, and I’m at a point where I can’t hide it anymore…I’m pregnant. It wasn’t something that Adam and I had planned to happen so soon, but it did, and we’re ecstatic!
So holla to my brides this year, you’ll notice the photographer you met last year has gotten a little ‘bigger’. But no worries ladies, your pictures will still be fabulous even though I’ll be carrying around some “extra baggage”. Can’t wait to see you all in your gorgeous-ness!
I’m about 15 weeks along, so I’m just entering my second trimester and am feeling a lot better than I did the first. I’m due around mid-August, August 16th to be exact. Adam and I saw the first ultrasound two weeks ago and we were in awe, but until that point it didn’t seem real to us at all. But when we first saw it on the monitor, it was moving around so much – we could see it’s hands, feet and heartbeat pumping away like crazy.
We’ve decided that we don’t want to find out the sex of the baby so we’ve given it the nickname ‘Ninja’. So listen up baby Ninja, although your parents are scared and still feel like kids on the inside, we can’t wait to meet you to teach and show you everything we know! Have fun in there…see you in 6 months. 
Monday, January 11, 2010 Posted in Weddings
The long title of this post translates to “Happy New Year!” in Japanese. Why japanese you ask? Well, Adam and I are now off for three weeks to the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ for our honeymoon. We’re both super excited and feel as though it isn’t real yet. I’m sure it will hit me, like most trips, when I step off the plane.
The first week we are going to the Tokyo Auto Show (obviously something Adam would love to see and experience – hee hee). Then after that we are both on our own. We will want to pack as much in as possible while in this amazing country. Here are some things on our list that we would love to see and experience:
• Sumo wrestling match – they are so cute!
• Harajuku – Cutting Edge Fashion District Of Japan
• The ancient castles in Japan
• Train rides – up to 300 miles per hour
• Akihabara – geeky, techy area of Japan ;P
• Ryokan – type of traditional Japanese inn
• Henshin Studio Mon Katsura – where you can dress up as a Geisha and Samurai for the day
• I’ve tossed around the idea of getting a haircut in Japan. Eeeee! – why not, it’s just hair?!
And these are just a few of the things we have written down to experience. Of course I’ll have my camera on hand at all times to snap pictures and I will post some of them as soon as I get back. I know my mind will explode from seeing all the things I’ve only seen on t.v. and read in magazines about Japan. It is a country that both of us deeply love and have always wanted to visit. The one thing I know that I won’t be able to see and take in are the cherry blossom trees. They bloom at the end of March and the beginning of April. Boo. Maybe that will be an excuse for me to go back one day?
But I just wanted to give a holla out to you all and hope that all of you have had a great holiday season and New Year! If you email me, I will get back to you as soon as I get back!
“Domo arigato mr roboto…Domo” , random thought, this song is in my head right now.
Sayonara for now…
Wednesday, December 16, 2009 Posted in Weddings
Hi everyone! I’m back and hitched! Our wedding at the El Dorado Royale in Mexico was a success. I wouldn’t have changed anything about it…it was absolutely perfect! The wedding day was sunny, breezy and the view of the ocean was breathtaking. Adam looked so handsome in his custom made suit from Mark Nunes, I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. And my dress, I absolutely loved. I had it custom made by a talented designer named Lisa Van Hattem. It was perfect for the warm climate and exactly what I wanted.
I have always wanted a destination wedding and the resort in itself has now set a new standard for me, it definitely didn’t let me down. I have to admit that I was worried since we planned everything by doing our research on the internet and reading reviews. I would definitely go back to this resort again, and again. The food was exceptional, and all of the workers were friendly and willing to help you out in anyway to make sure you were happy and comfortable. All of our guests had a blast and we brought a lot of great memories back home to Canada.
I’m still adjusting calling Adam my husband but I’m sure it will become the norm after a year or so…heehee! He is my best friend and the one I can turn to for anything. I love you Cutes and am looking foward to the many years ahead together!
Come back to this post soon because I will be posting some pictures that Emma Smallbone from barebonephoto took of our special day! CAN’T WAIT for you all to see them!
***UPDATE*** Look below for just a few of my favorites. Thanks so much Emma! Enjoy! If you’d like to see more, check out her blog.
Our outdoor reception.
Here are some pictures taken a few days after the wedding…
Hola friends and fellow blog followers! I am out of the office because in a few hours I am off to get married in “Meh-hee-ko”– The Mayan Riviera to be exact. I cannot believe one year of planning has gone by so quickly…oh how time flies.
Right now, my soon-to-be husband Adam is power napping while I stay awake writing to you. I can’t just abandon you without telling you where I’m going…especially when it’s such an exciting point in my life. Honestly, I don’t even know how he can sleep. We have to be up and out the door by 6 a.m. but I’m too excited, anxious and nervous to even close my eyes! Ohh I can’t wait to feel that breeze of warm air when I take that first step off the plane. Then hit the beach and dig my toes into the warm sand while gazing at the gorgeous blue ocean. Wow, in less than a week’s time, I will do what I’ve seen soo many beautiful bride’s do…is say “I do” while staring into their best friend’s eyes. Love. *sigh*…
Don’t worry, I’ll come back and post pictures from our big day, but right now I must calm the brain and get some beauty sleep. ;P
Buenas noches! Zzzzzzzz..
As some of you may know, I grew up in a small ‘Sepoy’ town in Ontario town called Lucknow – population 1,100. If some of you don’t know where that is, it is right on highway 86 in Bruce County. Right now, I have lived in the city for 10+ years but there is just something about driving up highway 86; the open farm fields, passing by mennonites and smelling that clean country air that gives me that feeling of home. So when Jodi and Dan invited me to their country home for their engagement session, the quiet and calm drive made me reminisce my childhood of growing up in a small town.
Jodi and Dan are planning to have their wedding next year at their gorgeous, GORGEOUS 1800’s home just outside Teeswater. The way the tranquil warm sunlight sets around their home is beautiful and having their wedding there, a country setting that is your own home, is something that can’t be bought.
p.s. Jodi and Dan, if you ever decide to sell your house, ummm…I think I’d be one of the first to sign up to buy it! *wink*
For this wedding I second shot alongside Toronto photographer, Calla Evans.
Rachel and Peter had a fantastic venue to hold their ceremony and reception, the Oakville Terrace in Richmond Hill. It is a secluded, lush and spacious venue with amazing views, perfect for such an important day. Everytime I looked at Peter, he always had a big, bright smile on his face. Perhaps it was because Rachel looked absolute stunning (not to say you didn’t look handsome yourself Peter *wink* ).
Rachel is a talented Graphic Designer which meant no detail was overlooked; from the invite to the table numbers, to the packaging for the guest favors. From one Graphic Designer to another, Rachel you did an amazing, amazing job!
Thank you Rachel and Peter for letting me be a part of your beautiful day, I wish you both all the best!
This wedding is a wedding I shot alongside talented photographer Tara McMullen.
Janet + Cliff had a fun and heartfelt day at King Valley Golf Club in Toronto, Ontario. But before the ceremony started, there were some Chinese traditions that needed to be completed first. I followed the guys from getting ready in the morning to going over to the bride’s home for some games that Janet’s bridesmaids held before ’surrendering’ the bride to Cliff.
These guys were great sports with some of the games they had to endure from these girls. One being wearing baby diapers and running through the house getting signatures from relatives of the bride on the, *ah-hem*, frontal region. All of the games were very entertaining for Tara and I, and we loved every minute of it.
Check out the pics below to see some of these moments caught on camera. Enjoy!
Guys waiting outside of Janet’s parent’s house for the games to begin.
Ummm, we have to do what with these diapers?…
Diapers signed!..onto the next challenge…
Doing push-ups while eating a slice of watermelon.
The bridesmaids have surrendered Janet to Cliff. You can see the sigh of relief on his face.
Tea Ceremony.
Umm hi there Ms. Maggie Sottero, you don’t know me but my name is Lisa, nice to finally meet you…gah gah gahhhhh…droooool…
Beautiful bride.
Janet with her flower girl and ring bearer. Too sweet!
The entire time I was putting this post together, I kept thinking about these cupcakes and how I wanted one so badly. Don’t they look devil-ishly deeelish?
Pretty, pretty, wishing tree. Such a great idea for your guests to sign and hang!
This entry is a wedding I second shot alongside talented Toronto photographer, Tara McMullen.
I started the day off by going to Rob’s condo to take pictures of him getting ready while Tara spent the morning with Robin. When I first saw Rob, he was dressed in a sharp three-piece suit with a pair of simple, yet colourful pair of polka dot socks. Then when I met up with Tara at the Steam Whistle Brewery I got my first look at Robin, she was radiant. She had her own elegant flare from her pink shoes to the feather hairpiece in her hair. These two definitely had a sophisticated style. Not only did they have a très chic aura about them, their guests had to have been the most unique, and stylish guests I have ever seen at a wedding. There were soo many guests with outfits I wanted to own! Ok, ok, Lisa enough about clothes. Check out some pics I took during this fun and amazing wedding. Enjoy!
What can I say about these two special friends that are close to my heart? They are two of the most kind, caring and generous people I know. I wouldn’t have missed their wedding in Kashmir, India for the world. The wedding was beautiful, full of rich crisp colours, and the turning of the leaves made an amazing backdrop for their portrait shots. Having the ceremony and celebrations at Rishi’s family’s retreat, Green Acres, made it feel even more welcoming and special. I hope to go back there one day.
Stay tuned for some more pictures on my travels through India.
“Hug hug, kiss kiss, hug hug, big kiss, little hug, kiss kiss, little kiss.” 
Wondering what the “e.c.” stands for? Electric Circus?! Nope…(although I wish that show was still on – don’t judge me people!).
The e.c. I’m referring to stands for Erin Carpenter. Erin is a talented makeup artist based out of Toronto, Ontario. She approached me about a year ago to create a corporate image for her business. I was so excited to work on her promo pieces because it involved two things that most women find important on their wedding day…hair and makeup! She has applied her artistic talents on many celebrities and is hired to be involved in many events like the Canadian Film Centre show.
Through the years I have witnessed her amazing skills on many brides and I have to say she makes natural beauties even more beautiful! So if you’re in need for a professional makeup and hair artist, she is the one to call! To find out more about Erin click here to check out her blog.
Below are the pieces I’ve created for her; logo, business card, comp card and stationery.
This is the final blog post from second shooting with barebonephoto…and it’s fully loaded with pics!
Melissa and Chris were married at the breathtaking venue, Graydon Hall Manor. The day was sunny, beautiful and warm – perfect for an outdoor wedding!
Scroll down to see my favourite pictures from that day. Enjoy!!!
Gorgeous, GORRRGEOUS venue!
Setting up for the reception.
Don't these look deeeeelish?!! and le presentation c'est très chic non?!! (yes, sometimes I just sputter out french).
I couldn't keep my eyes off of the cute cute cuuute flower girl so I kind of went overboard with pictures of her.
Cute, cute!!!
Gorgeous.
This is the second of three weddings I’m posting where I was a second shooter for barebonephoto.
I have to say that Danielle and Jeff are one of the most memorable and unique couples I have ever shot with Emma. They were both so sweet, nice and so relaxed – it almost felt like we weren’t even working! Danielle has an addictive smile and Jeff possesses a quirky sense of humour which was entertaining. Needless to say the day was filled with many laughs and memorable moments, one being where Jeff rapped his vows!!! It was quite the show and something I won’t forget. If you want to see the actual lyrics to his rap check it out on Emma’s blog.
Scroll down to check out some of the pics I captured from their special day. Enjoy!
Beautiful bride with beautiful light.
Jeff's 'first look' at his bride.
Ceremony.
Jeff rapping his vows!!!
A special moment with Dad.
I love Danielle's mom's face in this picture!
Quite a memorable day.
Here is the first of three weddings I will be posting where I was a second shooter under barebonephoto.
Lindsey and Tim were such a warm and welcoming couple. Their bridal party was funny and very comfortable having their pictures taken of them which made our jobs so much easier! We started off at their home downtown Toronto where the girls were and then headed to the Gladstone Hotel where the guys were getting ready. Their ceremony and reception was held at a great venue, the Steam Whistle Brewery.
Be sure to check out Emma’s blog to see her pictures of this couple on their special day.
Look at the brick texture…LOVE IT!!!
Pretty, pretty ladies.
Details at the Gladstone.
Tim getting ready.
Inside the brewery made some really cool shots (gotta love that industrial look!).
Great venue.
Be sure to come back soon to check out another wedding I second shot under barebonephoto.
Since the subject of my first post was about a wedding in Cuba, I thought I would continue with an additional Cuba post.
While waiting for Amy and Damis’ special day to arrive, a group of us took an early morning day trip into the countryside which included our own rented jeeps! – that was one of the main selling features of the package! We all followed our tour guide off the main roads, made stops in small villages, schools and farms to learn about Cuba and their culture. Some of our activities included: a visit to a coffee plantation, horse-back riding, lunch on a hill-top, viewing of a Christopher Columbus landmark, and watching a historical dance ritual for marriage – just to name a few. Needless to say by the time we made it back to the resort that evening we were all happily exhausted and looking forward to a dip in the pool.
Here are a few pictures from that memorable day. Enjoy!
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention, I got kisses from a couple of the dancers...oooo la laaaa! ;P
This past January I was asked to be the photographer for my fiancee’s good friend Amy. When she asked me I was honoured! Not only was I flattered that she asked me but I was ecstatic because the wedding was going to be in Cuba! How exciting! Just as the winter blues set in, a trip away to a bright sunny, sandy beach would be the best fix.
Even with the sunny days and warm weather at our fingertips, the beach and sea still call to me. Here are some pictures I’d like to share from their wedding at beautiful Playa Costa Verde Resort. Needless to say, with a guest list of 90 and a hot looking bride and groom, the week in Cuba was amazing! Thanks for the great time Amy and Damis!
The hot couple!
Ceremony.
Damis and his handsome groomsmen.
Amy and her sexy ladies!
A wonderful wedding party.
A ring shot after a warm rain shower.
I couldn't resist...another ring Shot.
The kiss.
Guest list of 90! Such great company!
