SHAWON + JESSE'S WEDDING
This wedding is quintessentially what LUCKYGIRL is all about. Literally + visually + personally.
Literally because it was absolute luck to be photographic witnesses to their nuptials and celebration thereafter. Another photographer's missing passport led to a Day-Before-the-Big-Day phone call to us. Twenty-two hours to be exact. It was a resolute YES when asked by Shawon and Jesse to contribute, as even after a quick five minute conversation we had an inkling this was an opportunity not to be missed. (Although, on a less humble note, we should declare that we do abide by the Thomas Jefferson quote, "I'm a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.")
Visually because it was that perfect balance of SINCERITY, BEAUTY, LAUGHTER and MEANING. We've never had the privilege to photograph an Anishinaabe ceremony before, and in all ours years have never been part of something so exceptional. Her uncle and brother Wab Kinew performed the ceremony and even as newly invited guests we were moved by the sacredness of every act. In fact, every moment of the day was superbly inspiring. From beginning to end. From Fort Gibraltar to the delicious fare Deseo Bistro, from the beautiful flowers from Floral Elements to aroma of the cake from Dessert Sinsations... everything was instilled with creativity and thoughtfulness.
Personally because this was one of those rare times when we can unequivocally say it was FATE intervening in all her mysterious ways to grant us the chance to do what we do best. Photograph creatively & connect. It was "kismet", as Shawon says. And where on earth did this brilliant and beautiful couple come from? Shawon + Jesse (from Winnipeg and California respectively) are world travelling Harvard grad students with adoring families, talented friends and impeccable taste in every conceivable way. They exude kindness, intellect and creativity. The gratitude we feel towards them is endless. We hope that putting our heart and soul into the work we did for them is the most honest way to show our appreciation.
Thank you S + J.
- Mairen and Rachael
The above photo is one of Shawon with her father Anishinaabe LeaderTobasonakwut Kaagagewannakweb Kinew1936-2012
