Saxon & Jackson
Winter/Spring 2009
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photographed by Ikonica |
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| in character Well-known Toronto wedding photographer T.H. Jackson Huang of Ikonica found himself the subject behind the lense on August 30, 2008 at his very own wedding to Saxon Grimes. The year before, Huang had orchestrated a dramatic proposal—presenting Saxon with a Canadian diamond high atop Mount Wilcox—a mountain flanking the Columbia Icefields at the Continental Divide in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta. Huang enlisted his long-time friend and well-known Event Planner Melissa Haggerty of SpectacularSpectacular to assist he and Saxon in creating a wedding day that was bold, graphic and unique to the couple. “Melissa helped with everything from selecting vendors to making design choices. She was integral to securing the particular vendors who would be able to transform our unique vision into a reality,” recalls Saxon. On the day of the wedding, long-time associate Lianne Adelson of the Event Boutique was on hand to provide same-day assistance and make sure everything went according to plan. The day began with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony which took place at Huang’s brand-new 3000sq ft photo studio, aptly located in Toronto’s Photo District. The space provided a contemporary, pristine white backdrop for the afternoon event which was catered by Couture Cuisine. The couple’s signature icon—the Chinese character for “double happiness”—was graphically applied to their stationery (created by Ikonica) and was also applied to the studio wall in oversized red vinyl decals. Bright red banners designed by decorator William Fulghum of Church Street Flowers were hung overhead and completed the minimal but striking decor. Saxon’s cheongsam (traditional Chinese dress) and Jackson’s traditional jacket were both created by designer Alice Ko. change of scenery After the tea ceremony, the couple and their guests headed to The Gardiner Museum for a sunset wedding ceremony. Saxon changed into an off-white, silk Monique Lhuillier gown. The gown featured a modern ‘crumb-catcher’ design which extended around her back. In her hair she wore a black silk rose nestled in feathers by Lilliput Hats. A pair of sexy Roger Vivier black rose stilettos completed the look and featured a single raised thorn on the heel. Jackson was dressed in a white suit by Dolce & Gabbana. dramatic details The bold black and red colour palette continued at the ceremony with guests seated on rows of dramatic black Kartell Louis Ghost Armchairs provided by Contemporary Furniture Rentals. The aisle was flanked with signature red banners. Vibrant clusters of red floral arrangements by Church Street Flowers added a monochromatic pop of colour behind the couple as they exchanged their vows. poetry & programs The ceremony was personalized with custom programs, printed by Ikonica to match the invitations and signature double happiness symbol. Each program contained original poetry, penned by Saxon. Hearts lie still Surrounded by lily pads. Hearts burst into flame Flung from the windows of fast cars. Either way, You’re in love. –Saxon Grimes-Huang evening at the museum The reception was held in the Terrace Room at The Gardiner Museum. Long rows of tables draped in black linen were topped with hundreds of rectangular plexiglass containers filled with water, floating red rose petals, assorted red blossoms and glowing candles. More red banners hung behind the head table. Jamie Kennedy—the famed in-house chef at the museum, created a delicious five course meal for the couple and their guests which included Corn Soup with Green Onion Fritter and Cilantro Purée, Black Cod en Papillotte with Shaved Vegetables, Salsa Verde and White Wine, Smoked Ricotta Gnocchi with Braised Brisket and Spinach and Honey Panna Cotta with Macerated Fruit. love and life The newlyweds and their guests enjoyed a truffle tower by Kakayo Chocolate Company in lieu of a cake. The confectionary masterpiece was created with organic white and milk chocolate truffles. The culinary decadence ensued into the evening with late night snacks including Poutine with Sheeps Milk Cheddar and Duck Confit and Sauteed Mushrooms on Toast.
Saxon and Jackson wanted a wedding day that reflected “the beauty and passion from taking risks in love and life.” Their wedding day achieved that goal in spades. Saxon’s advice for other brides? “Don’t be afraid to break out of your comfort zone. Forget about trying to please others: it’s your wedding, so be courageous and make a statement!”
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