Larissa & Andrew were married in St. Paul this month and for the third time I made the journey up to this small isolated Alberta town to photograph a wedding. I really like St. Paul, the people are so warm and inviting and the blend of English and French gives the town a unique cultural feel. Larissa and Andrew decided to settle down here after Larissa took on a huge undertaking by starting up a funeral home. I thought it was a sort of different career path for her at first, but then after getting to know Larissa and her huge heart full of compassion and kindness, helping others get through a time of pain would be an ideal job for someone with so much to give. I still can’t believe how much she has accomplished so young- such an inspiration.
On the wedding day emotions ran high right from the moment Andrew saw Larissa walk down that isle. Even though they have been together since the age of 16 every time they looked at each other they smiled so sweetly. Ohhh, the love. And the reception, oh wow, the love! Between Larissa’s Grandfather singing to them and the heartfelt speeches I was pretty sure I was going to let out one of those embarrassing coughing sobs. Then to top it off, Andy’s mom found a letter on a old laptop. One from high school right after they had started dating that he had never given to Larissa. I expected something funny or simple- the way an average 16 year guy would write. What I was not expecting was eloquent words pouring off the page with such devotion and depth. Wow is all I could say. Andrew, you are one amazing guy and the two of you are so lucky you found each other so young. One thing is for sure, when your children are in high school you will never brush off their new relationships with “it’s just puppy love”.
Best of luck with everything- your new home, business and new life together. It was a pleasure getting to know you over the last year.
Hugs
Kelsy
Yes, it’s the Ukrainian Hall in St Paul, It is blue and grey normally, but the couple really decorated it up to look like so much more then a standard community centre!