Colourful Prince Edward County Wedding at Compass Rose – Ashley + Mike
Ashley + Mike + PEC
Nestled within the picturesque charm of Prince Edward County, Compass Rose played host to Ashley and Mike's fun filled, late summer wedding celebration that was nothing short of magical! The air was filled with the warm air of late summer in the county and the aroma of the stunning gardens of Compass Rose. As a photographer, I love when couples chose a venue that reflects them and Compass Rose truly was perfect for Ashley and Mike's wedding! It was the perfect atmosphere! From the vibrant florals that adorned the venue grounds to the playful details that reflected the couple's personalities, even the sun was shining and radiated their warmth back on them.
Ashley and Mike decided to have 2 ceremonies on the wedding day, a legal one that was special enough to be witnessed only by their parents and best man/maid of honour. And a second ceremony that was officiated by Mike's father for all their guests to enjoy and be a part of. Ashley and Mike floated through their day on a high, bouncing from moment to moment with lightness and love. The reception was a highlight for me as a photographer, getting to hear more about the couple's relationships with others, the contagious laughs and good food. The dance floor came alive with the infectious energy of their good friends playing live music, but it really kicked into high gear when Ashley and Mike took the stage!
Ashley and Mike's relationship began in the county, and creating these memories with friends and family will forever be etched in the heart of Prince Edward County and their hearts.
Tell me about the important role that PEC plays in your love story...
"we met in the county working at the same summer camp 10 years ago. It was a place where others always came first, hard work meant really hard work, and where we learned that if you truly let go, someone might see who you really are - and want to spend the rest of their life with you. It was here that we called home for two summers, and at the end of that summer we realized we never wanted that feeling to end. We’ve been together ever since. Coming back to PEC to celebrate our wedding with our loved ones was an easy decision, it’s where we learned who we really are and who we wanted to surround ourselves with, and it’s here that we wanted to celebrate our story with our community"
What was your favourite moment of the day?!
Ashley
“so many favourite moments. During the ceremony, Mike’s dad was our officiant and halfway through his speech, he realizes he forgot to prompt everyone to sit down! There’s a good photo of that moment that we’ll treasure for a lifetime. Another favourite is sitting with Mike at the head table at dinner looking out to all of our absolutely favourite people - it was really overwhelming in that moment just how lucky we are. And of course, the band and the dance. I guess it’s not always that the groom is in a band, but boy did it make for an incredible party! I’ll never forget getting to dance with our family and closest friends all night (and getting to shout song requests and encores all night)"
Mike
“how can I pick - the ceremony, the first look, the vows, hearing the speeches, playing with the band. I liked it all!"
Venue- Compass Rose
Makeup – Sam Lee Beauty
Catering – Hawley Crescent
Florals- Thyme Studio
Band- Northern Escape Band
Dress/Bridal shop- Grace Loves Lace
Suit- Harold by Harry Rosen
