A Rustic, Laid-Back Barn Wedding in Bradford, Ontario

Newfoundland-native Jacinta had just finished playing in the home opener of her roller derby league, Toronto Roller Derby, when she received the surprise of a lifetime. As her team, the Deathtrack Dolls, high-fived the crowd after the game, Jacinta's girlfriend, Gillian, stepped out onto the track holding up a homemade sign. Paying homage to Jacinta's hometown slang, the DIY sign read: "I dies for you Jacinta Pittman. Will you be my missus now and forever?"

Knowing that the farm venue, Bradford Barn, would have a lot of greenery, the couple chose a colour scheme of muted greys and blues to complement the forested landscape. "The venue was so picturesque and had so many different backdrops for photos," the couple says. Wanting to achieve a "rustic good times" theme, the couple decorated the venue with DIY details including clever signage and interactive games including a giant jenga and ring toss for guests to enjoy during the cocktail hour. Another personalized décor detail was their cake-topper: a bamboo cut out custom designed to look like their dogs. "Our dogs are our babies and it meant so much that we could have them with us at the supper," the couple says.

An important detail for the couple was including their loved ones on the day's events. Wanting to commemorate her late grandfather on her big day, Gillian knew she had to wear a tie he had made from their family tartan. Her maid of honour, Dawn, transformed the material into a bowtie, which she wore overtop of pearls her grandmother had worn on her own wedding day. Before the ceremony, Jacinta, who is a hairstylist, braided Gillian's hair. "It was a really special moment and grounded us for the day," the couple explains. As wedding favours, the couple gifted guests with jars of honey homegrown by Gillian's parents. Gillian's mother, Donna, officiated the wedding. "There was nobody else I would've rather had marry us," Jacinta shares.

As the reception was wrapping up, the couple helped Gillian's brother, Grantson, propose to his longtime girlfriend, Terra. Continuing the tradition of DIY proposals, the newlyweds held up a sign in front of their one-and-a-half-year-old nephew, asking Terra the big question. "She had no idea and it was really special to be a part of that moment," the couple remarks. "It really brought everyone together and was one of the most magical moments."

Jacinta Pittman and Gillian Macey, September 15, 2018, Bradford, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Sandra-Lee Photography.

Vendors
Venue: Bradford Barn
Bridal gown: Maggie Sottero
Bride's tux: Lambretta
Groomsmen's attire: Moore's Clothing
Hair: Kelly Araujo, Stella Zaia from Medulla & Co. Queen West
Makeup: Kat Crisp & Rebecca Pilozo
Arbour and centrepieces: Delta Dawn Floral
Cake topper: Light & Paper
Music: Dean James & Band
Stationary: Designs by Cinta
Favours: DJ's Wildflower Honey
Caterer: Custom Catering
Officiant: Donna Macey of All Seasons Weddings