Ray and Sylvie are the most incredible couple I have ever met in my life. There, I said it. Sorry everyone! But they are! Here’s why…
I met Ray and Sylvie almost three years ago when I first moved to New Brunswick. Both so upbeat, bubbly, and fun to be around. Not too long after I quit my job that I worked at with Sylvie, to pursue photography full time, the devastating news came the Sylvie had breast cancer. I removed the cap from my lens and I shot some of the most stunning boudoir sessions of our girl before she sadly, lost her girls. A toast, or many, to strength and recovery we had together that day. I watched as she battled and conquered one of life’s most hideous faces, with the love of her life by her side. Ray was beyond supportive and he remained positive and uplifting. Within the year, Ray had proposed, and Sylvie saw the end in sight, regarding her treatments. Unfortunately, two weeks before her last radiation treatment, cancer was about show it’s hideous face again. This time in Ray, as he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and started his battle. Yet, he still remained one of the most optimistic people I’ve ever met. It was now Sylvie who stood by his side and supported him throughout something that was still so fresh to her, and she hardly blinked an eye. A true testimony to how amazing both of these two are. They love each other with every ounce of their being. A year later, Ray’s cancer took a turn for the worse. But, the two strongest, most unstoppable, positive people that they are, they didn’t skip a beat and decided to take the bull by the horns and started crossing off their bucket lists. Within two weeks, with the help of many friends and family members, Ray and Sylvie planned their dream day… And a dream it was.
It was the coldest day of the year thus far, but the sun was shinning and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. There was a calm euphoria surrounding everyone and everything that day.The girls were getting ready at the Delta Moncton. Surrounded by her closest girls and daughter, Sylvie was eager and excited. Champagne was flowing and you could hear the laughs from down the hall. It was a first for me, as I not only was the photographer, but I was Sylvie’s makeup artist also! That was nerve racking, let me tell you! My hands couldn’t stop shaking as I did her makeup, but the end product was better than I could have ever hoped for. After the girls were well on their way, we headed over to Ray and Sylvie’s house to get some photos of the boys getting ready. The whiskey was being poured and the boys were calm and relaxed. Maybe from the whiskey? We snapped a few shots and headed on our way to the ceremony and reception site.
We gathered in a room where Ray and Sylvie were going to have their first look. As we waited for the bride to arrive, Ray looked over his vows and made some adjustments. The way Ray looked and took all of Sylvie in, after first seeing her as his future bride for the first time in her dress, was enough to make anyone weep. We did a second, first look, as Sylvie’s daughter, Ellie, came in and showed off her adorable looks! Was another precious moment, in a day jam packed with beautiful memories.
The intimate ceremony, consisting of only close friends and family, started and I can honestly say that there wasn’t a dry eye in the place. Their vows to each other were incredible, but Ray’s vows to Ellie, were even more heartwarming. It was so sacred, it was so special to be a part of. Everything was simple, there was zero stress, there was no expectations, and it was exactly the way it should be. All they cared about was finally being husband and wife. As everyone choked back their tears and cheered on the new husband and wife, we had an amazing dinner and mingle session. There was an open house reception, as many people, who’ve been blessed with being friends with these two, wanted to come to wish their best wishes to the happily married couple!
Ray and Sylvie, you are both so inspirational and motivational. You are both phenomenal people, and together, you’ve formed an unbreakable unity to last an eternity. What you’ve both been through in the last 2 years of your lives together, is more than most people will see in a lifetime. Yet, you’ve come out stronger. You’ve taught us all to never take our loved ones for granted and to live in the moment. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day, I couldn’t be happier for the both of you.
So if you don’t agree with me yet, why these two are the best couple ever…strap yourselves in, grab the tissues, and get ready for Ray and Sylvie’s beautiful wedding day photos.
Moncton Wedding Photography | DLR Photography