When I first met Lu and Michael, one thing that stood out right away was how easygoing they were. They weren't focused on creating a perfectly timed wedding day or squeezing in every possible photo. More than anything, they wanted to spend their wedding day with the people they love, and that really set the tone for everything.


They chose Barn Swallow Fields, just outside Guelph, Ontario, because they fell in love with the beautiful countryside and natural views. It was the perfect setting for the relaxed, outdoor celebration they had envisioned, and from the moment the day started, you could tell it was going to be one filled with genuine moments, happy tears, and lots of laughter.


A Relaxed Start to the Day

The morning began at two nearby Airbnbs just a few minutes from Barn Swallow Fields. Michael spent the morning with his groomsmen, eager to get dressed and finally see Lu. Meanwhile, Lu's morning had a much slower pace.


One of my favourite things about the Airbnb where Lu got ready was how many little spaces there were for everyone to enjoy. Some guests relaxed on the porch swing, others gathered in the kitchen while hair and makeup were underway, a few wandered down to the pond, and there was even a hammock tucked away under the trees. There was also a goose that spent the morning leading a group of goats around the property, which definitely wasn't something I expected to see!


As Lu got into her dress, the emotions really started to settle in. There were so many sweet reactions from family, friends, and her bridal party seeing her ready for the first time. Those quiet moments are always some of my favourites to photograph because they're impossible to recreate.

Black and white photo of a bride in a white gown standing on a balcony hallway, with a friend helping her carry her dress in Guelph, Ontario
Hairstylist placing a crystal floral hair accessory into a bride's gray hair during wedding preparation in Guelph, Ontario.
Young girl in a dress sitting in a chair during makeup session with beauty products nearby on the morning of a wedding in Guelph, Ontario
Makeup artist applies makeup to a woman in a bright kitchen during the morning of a wedding in Guelph, Ontario.
Reflection of a bride getting her hair done on the morning of her wedding surrounded by others in Guelph, Ontario.
White strapless wedding dress hanging on a wooden hanger on a covered porch with wicker chairs on the morning of a Guelph, Ontario wedding.
White strapless wedding dress with intricate floral lace embroidery displayed on a hanger on the morning of a wedding in Guelph, Ontario.
White strapless lace wedding dress with veil hanging on wooden hanger outside stone building on the morning of a wedding in Guelph, Ontario
Bride admiring her white lace wedding dress hanging on a porch of a stone house on the morning of her wedding in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride admiring her white wedding dress hanging outdoors near stone wall on the morning of her wedding in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride admiring her lace wedding dress and veil, on the porch of an air bnb on the morning of her wedding in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride laughing while holding her wedding dress outside on the balcony of her air bnb on the morning of her wedding in Guelph, Ontario.
White lace wedding dress hanging on a hanger in an elegant room with rust curtains and a decorative bench in Guelph, Ontario.
Framed photo of elderly woman on nightstand with jewelry boxes, rings, and necklace on green cloth pillow in Guelph, Ontario.
A white wedding dress hanging in a dimly lit hallway with warm curtains and a potted plant nearby in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride holding her elegant white wedding gown in a warmly lit home hallway while a guest watches from the staircase in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride holding her wedding gown in a softly lit hallway with warm decor, red curtains, and a fiddle leaf fig plant nearby in Guelph, Ontario.
Woman holding a white lace wedding dress on a hanger near a window with rust curtains in an elegant bridal suite in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride's hand with diamond engagement ring and gold band touching a white lace wedding dress on a hanger in Guelph, Ontario.
Navy blue suit jacket on hanger with white shirt, brown leather dress shoes on white mantle above fireplace in Guelph, Ontario.
Groom getting ready with his groomsmen near some windows in the air bnb on the morning of his wedding in Guelph, Ontario.

A First Look Before the Celebration Began

Rather than waiting until the ceremony, Lu and Michael chose to have a first look at the Airbnb beneath a group of large trees. It gave them a chance to slow down, see each other privately, and enjoy a few quiet moments together before the excitement of the day really kicked off.


Afterwards, we explored the property for portraits. Between the tree-lined paths, the pond, the porch swings, and the open spaces around the house, there were so many beautiful spots without ever feeling rushed.

Bride in white gown with colorful bouquet faces groom in navy suit during outdoor first look near tall trees in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in white gown holding bouquet stands on green lawn beside tall tree with stone building in background in Guelph, Ontario.
Groom in navy suit stands outdoors as bride in white gown approaches during a wedding first look ceremony in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in white gown with colorful bouquet faces groom in navy suit for first look on green lawn near tall trees in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride holding colorful bouquet surprises groom in blue suit during outdoor wedding first look ceremony in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride and groom smiling outdoors on their wedding day, with colorful bouquet and blue suit in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in white gown with long veil holds bouquet beside groom in blue suit, standing on green grass among tall trees in Guelph, Ontario.
Smiling bride in strapless white gown holding colorful bouquet of purple, pink, and orange flowers outdoors in Guelph, Ontario.
Smiling bride in strapless white gown holding colorful bouquet during outdoor wedding first look in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in strapless gown holds colorful bouquet smiling at groom in navy suit outdoors near large tree in Guelph, Ontario.
Groom in navy suit reacts with joy seeing bride in white gown holding colorful bouquet during first look outdoors in Guelph, Ontario.
Groom in navy suit smiles at bride in white lace gown holding colorful bouquet during outdoor first look in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride and groom share a romantic kiss outdoors on green grass, surrounded by tall trees, bride holding colorful bouquet in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in white lace gown holding colorful bouquet stands with groom in blue suit on green lawn with trees in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in white lace gown with long train stands with suited man holding colorful bouquet on green lawn with trees in Guelph, Ontario.
Bride in white lace gown holding colorful bouquet stands with groom in blue suit on green lawn with trees in Guelph, Ontario.

We also photographed their immediate family before heading to the venue. Choosing a first look meant we could get many of these photos finished early, leaving more time later in the day for Lu and Michael to actually enjoy cocktail hour with their guests instead of spending all of it taking formal portraits.


I always tell couples that there isn't a "right" or "wrong" choice when it comes to a first look. Every wedding is different, and it's about choosing what fits your day best. For Lu and Michael, it was absolutely the right decision.

A Beautiful Outdoor Ceremony at Barn Swallow Fields

Barn Swallow Fields is one of those venues that feels peaceful the moment you arrive.


The outdoor ceremony space is surrounded by nature, with a beautiful wooden arch tucked into the landscape. As a photographer, I love this ceremony location because it has gorgeous natural light while still allowing guests to comfortably enjoy the ceremony.


Watching Lu walk down the aisle was one of those emotional moments that reminds me why I love photographing weddings. Between the smiles, the happy tears, and the way these two looked at each other throughout the ceremony, it was clear just how excited they were to finally be married.


Surrounded by just over one hundred of their closest family and friends, they exchanged their vows and officially began their next chapter together.

Outdoor wedding ceremony on green lawn with guests seated on wooden benches at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Outdoor wedding reception on green lawn with wooden arbor and guests seated on benches at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Guests seated on wooden benches at an outdoor wedding ceremony on a sunny day at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Groomsmen in suits walk toward outdoor wedding guests near a modern dark barn venue on a sunny day at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario
Groomsmen in navy suits walk across green lawn toward outdoor wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
A ring bearer in navy suit and hat walks down the aisle with flower girls in white dresses at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Outdoor wedding ceremony on green lawn with flower girls walking the aisle, guests seated on wooden benches at barn swallow fields in guelph
Hands passing an ornate antique book with gold clasp during an outdoor wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bridesmaid in lavender dress walks down outdoor wedding aisle at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Outdoor wedding ceremony with wedding party walking down aisle and guests seated on benches at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Smiling bridesmaid in light blue gown walks down aisle of outdoor wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white lace gown walks down outdoor aisle, bridesmaid adjusting veil, at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown and bridesmaid in pink dress standing outdoors near a barn at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride stands with bridesmaid in pink dress during outdoor wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown holds colorful bouquet walking with bridesmaid during outdoor ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride walks outdoor aisle with bridesmaid at sunny garden wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Groom in navy suit watches bride approach at outdoor wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride at outdoor wedding ceremony, setting colorful bouquet on a pillow during the ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and bridesmaid hug at outdoor wedding ceremony at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Outdoor wedding ceremony with bridesmaid hugging groom while bride watches at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.

Choosing Time with Their Guests

One thing I really appreciated about Lu and Michael's wedding was what they chose to prioritize.


Instead of disappearing for a long portrait session after the ceremony, they wanted to spend that time with the people who had travelled to celebrate with them. During cocktail hour, they mingled, caught up with friends and family, and enjoyed the atmosphere while I focused on capturing lots of candid moments and photos of their guests.


We still took some relaxed family photos during cocktail hour, but nothing ever felt rushed or overly posed. The whole day stayed true to what mattered most to them: being present.


I think that's something future couples sometimes forget. You don't have to choose between beautiful portraits and enjoying your wedding day. With a little planning, you really can have both.

Bridesmaid in mauve dresses, both smiling outdoors at wedding celebration at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown with guests gathered outside a rustic barn venue on a sunny wedding day at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Outdoor farm wedding with string lights, rustic wooden fence on green grass under clear blue sky at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown holding colorful bouquet hugs woman in purple dress outdoors at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown holding colorful bouquet smiles with woman in purple dress at outdoor wedding at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Kids playing on structure in green grass field with wooden split-rail fence at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Outdoor wedding ceremony with bride and groom surrounded by guests on green lawn at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown interacts with guest in teal dress at outdoor wedding reception at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride in white gown holding colorful bouquet poses with groom and elderly woman at outdoor wedding at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario
Woman in teal dress playing cornhole on a green lawn beside a rustic wooden fence at an outdoor wedding at barn swallow fields in guelph
Custom engraved wooden cornhole board with signatures on green grass outdoors at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Group of friends playing cornhole lawn game outside at outdoor wedding at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Men playing cornhole on grass outside a rustic barn venue with string lights during an outdoor wedding at barn swallow fields in guelph
Black & white Mr and Mrs embroidered cornhole bags on green grass, perfect for wedding lawn games at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario
Outdoor Tetris lawn game set with colorful foam pieces and white game board on green grass at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.

Sunset Portraits That Were Worth Waiting For

If there's one thing July evenings can surprise you with, it's an incredible sunset.


Just before the light disappeared, we snuck away for a few more portraits around Barn Swallow Fields, and I'm so glad we did.


The golden light filtering through the trees created some of my favourite portraits of the day. Then, as the sky turned shades of pink, orange, and purple, we headed into the open field for a few silhouette photos before finishing beneath the twinkle lights and along the fence at the back of the property.


Those portraits felt relaxed, fun, and completely natural, just like Lu and Michael.

Bride and groom share a romantic sunset moment outdoors amid lush green trees at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom walking hand in hand through lush green garden path with string lights at sunset at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom walking hand in hand through green lawn at sunset with string lights and trees at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom holding hands at sunset on a green lawn at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom hold hands at golden hour sunset, surrounded by lush green trees at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom embracing outdoors at golden hour with bokeh string lights at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom embrace at sunset in an orchard with string lights at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom embrace outdoors at golden sunset at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom share a moment outdoors at golden hour, surrounded by lush greenery and string lights at barn swallow fields in guelph
Bride in white veil and groom in blue suit share a tender moment outdoors at golden hour wedding at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Bride and groom share first dance outdoors on lush green lawn at dusk with string lights at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.

Why I Love Photographing Weddings at Barn Swallow Fields

If you're looking for an outdoor wedding venue near Guelph, Barn Swallow Fields is honestly such a beautiful choice.


One of my favourite things about the venue is how much variety it offers without ever needing to leave the property.


The ceremony space is stunning, the white reception barn is bright and airy, and the large rolling doors open everything up to the surrounding countryside. The natural light throughout the venue is beautiful, and when it comes time for the reception, the bright interior makes off-camera flash photography look clean and timeless.


For portraits, there are open fields, rows of mature trees, twinkle lights, and quiet little corners that all photograph beautifully.


Guests also have so much space to enjoy themselves. Between the lawn games, picnic tables, fire pits, benches, play areas for kids, and open fields, there are plenty of places to relax, mingle, and enjoy the evening.


It's the kind of venue where your entire wedding day can happen in one place while still feeling like you're discovering something new around every corner.


If you're dreaming of a countryside wedding near Guelph, I would absolutely recommend taking a tour of Barn Swallow Fields.

Rustic wooden directional sign post at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Rustic wooden directional sign post with rooster topper pointing to barn swallow fields, ceremony, cocktail hour, and bonfire in guelph
Rustic farm entrance with wooden pergola, metal gate, grain silo, and weeping willow trees under blue sky at barn swallow fields in guelph,
Thatcher Farms Butcher Shop, Bakery & Market round sign on a rustic wooden building exterior at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Rustic wooden wedding arch with colorful flowers on a lush green lawn with weeping willow trees at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario
Elegant antique wooden table and chair set placed on lush green grass at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Dark gray barn-style building with large windows, surrounded by green lawn and trees at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Wedding table centerpiece with colorful flowers in glass vases, place settings on white linen at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant wedding reception hall with long tables, black chairs, and colorful floral centerpieces at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant rustic wedding reception table set with floral centerpieces, candles, and glassware at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant barn venue with long dining tables, black chairs, floral centerpieces, and rustic wooden doors at barn swallow fields in guelph
Blue and white floral wedding seating chart cards displayed on wooden clipboards at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant wedding seating chart display on wooden easels with floral accents at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant vintage living room with tufted cream sofa, ornate wooden chairs, floral rug at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Coral rose in glass bud vase with candles on a blush table runner at a wedding reception at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant wedding table setting with colorful wildflowers in glass vases, and a soft blush table runner at barn swallow fields in guelph, ON
Wedding photo displayed on ornate easel with fresh wildflowers in glass vases at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant wedding table centerpiece with vibrant pink roses and colorful wildflowers at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Elegant wedding reception table with colorful pink and yellow floral arrangements at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.
Colorful wedding table centerpiece with flowers in bud vases beside a navy table number at barn swallow fields in guelph, ontario.

Vendor Team

Venue: Barn Swallow Fields

Hair: Tiffany's Purple Scissors

Makeup: The Babe Cave Beauty

Dress Boutique: More 2 Love Bridal

Catering: Gilt Catering

Planning Your Own Barn Swallow Fields Wedding?

Whether you're planning a wedding at Barn Swallow Fields, somewhere else in Guelph, or anywhere across Southern Ontario, I'd love to help capture it.


My approach is simple: I want you to enjoy your wedding day. I'll guide you when you need it, step back when the moments unfold naturally, and create photos that feel genuine to who you are—not overly posed or forced.


If that sounds like the experience you're looking for, I'd love to hear what you're planning.

Learn more about my Wedding Experience

View Wedding Pricing

Get in Touch

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Barn Swallow Fields?

Barn Swallow Fields is a beautiful countryside wedding venue just outside Guelph, Ontario. It offers an outdoor ceremony space, a bright reception barn, and plenty of scenic portrait locations throughout the property.

Can you have both your ceremony and reception at Barn Swallow Fields?

Yes! One of the biggest advantages of Barn Swallow Fields is that you can host your entire wedding day in one location while still enjoying a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Is Barn Swallow Fields a good venue for wedding photos?

Absolutely. Between the open fields, tree-lined paths, ceremony space, twinkle lights, and beautiful sunsets, there are countless locations for portraits throughout the property without ever needing to leave the venue.

Do you photograph weddings at Barn Swallow Fields?

Yes! I'd love to photograph another wedding at Barn Swallow Fields. If you're planning your wedding there and are looking for a relaxed, candid approach to photography, I'd love to chat.

Planning Your Own Wedding?

If you're planning a wedding in Guelph, at Barn Swallow Fields, or anywhere across Southern Ontario, I'd love to hear what you're dreaming up.


Whether you're just starting to plan or already have your venue booked, I'm always happy to answer questions, chat about your timeline, or help you figure out what photography coverage might be the best fit for your day.


If you think we'd be a good fit, I'd love to connect and hear your story.

Get in touch here to start the conversation.