Cozy Winter Wedding at Crescent Hill Acres

2025 Weddings
Written By Amanda McGuire

Some weddings leave a lasting impression and Avery & Dominic’s winter wedding was one I’ll never forget. Held in Sarnia, Ontario their day was a heartfelt celebration filled with love, laughter, tears, and genuine connection.

The ceremony took place at Bluewater Baptist Church, where Avery’s family has long been a part of the congregation. The reception was hosted at Crescent Hill Acres in Wyoming Ontario, which served as a magical wintery backdrop for their chilly February wedding. Surrounded by snow-dusted pine trees, they still felt a sense of warmth and love as they celebrated with their closest family and friends.

As a wedding photographer who shares their passion for faith, I felt especially connected to Avery & Dom’s desire to have a God-honouring wedding day and I made it my mission to capture that essence in every photo.

An Emotional “First Look” With Family

Before the ceremony, Avery did a “first look” with her dad, brother, sister, and all her bridesmaids, and the love between them was unmistakable. These kinds of moments are what make photographing weddings so rewarding. Even though many moments in a wedding day will happen by “happenstance”, it’s not a good idea to leave everything up to chance. Building a moment like this into your wedding day itinerary is a good idea to make sure the moment ACTUALLY happens - and everything runs on time too!

First Look Tips

Thinking of doing a “first look” with a special family member? Here are some tips!

  • Schedule a special “first look” into your timeline

  • Allocate at least 10 - 15 minutes

  • Have your photographer or wedding planner guide your family member to the right spot

  • You can either do a count down and have them turn around to see you, OR you can walk up behind them and tap them on the shoulder. Either way, it will be a beautiful and intimate moment between you both.

Ceremony at Bluewater Baptist Church – A Place Close to Their Hearts

Avery and Dom exchanged personally-written vows at Bluewater Baptist Church on Devine Street and the air was filled with a quiet reverence and joyful excitement before their ceremony began. As Avery walked down the aisle with her dad, you could sense her appreciation for all her family and friends. One of the most memorable parts of the ceremony was a handshake Avery shared with her dad - a playful, light-hearted moment that made everyone laugh.


Immediately after their ceremony, we gather their immediate families around and had fun taking portraits, and made sure each family member had a special moment with Avery & Dom.

Reception at Crescent Hill Acres – A Warm & Rustic Winter Dream Venue

Crescent Hill Acres in Wyoming Ontario provided the perfect space for Avery & Dom’s reception. With its expansive and modern-barn interior, this venue easily accommodates a large number of guests and gave the evening a cozy, cabin-like feel. The snow-covered trees surrounding the venue made the perfect setting for romantic winter portraits, and Avery & Dom bravely ventured into the snow with me to take photos in the setting sun.

Inside the venue, the warmth of the space matched the atmosphere: friendly, emotional, and full of laughter.

The wedding party looked stunning:

  • Avery’s bridesmaids wore sleek black satin dresses paired with faux fur shawls, the perfect look for the winter season.

  • Dom’s groomsmen wore matching velvet black suits and Dominic elegantly stood out with a deep, burgundy suit.


Unique Touches & Emotional Highlights

Avery & Dom made sure to add many thoughtful, personal touches throughout their day, including:

  • A polaroid camera guestbook station where guests snapped instant photos, added them to a scrapbook, and wrote heartfelt notes to the couple.

  • A bespoke father-daughter dance song, written and performed by Avery’s dad. It was an incredibly moving moment and I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room!


What Made This Day So Special

The whole day felt bittersweet in the best way, filled with gratitude, love, and a deep sense of family values. It was wintery and elegant, yet warm and inviting. As their photographer, I not only captured the day but also guided Avery and Dom through parts of the planning process. Since the day they booked their date with me, I helped them to create a relaxed and efficient photography timeline so they could fully enjoy their day without the stress.

Some of my favorite moments included:

  • Their snowy couples’ portraits in the golden sun

  • The good natured vibes from their entire wedding party

  • Guests laughing and grooving on the dancefloor

  • The faith-filled ceremony and joyful reactions from family and friends


Looking for a Wedding Photographer in Sarnia, Ontario?

Whether you’re getting married at a local church or one of the many beautiful venues here in Sarnia and Lambton County, I’d love to help tell your story. I specialize in capturing real and heartfelt moments with a fun and energetic approach. Your new friend behind the lens!

Take a peek at what’s included in wedding photography services:

  • 5 - 10 hour wedding day coverage

  • Ongoing support, timeline guidance, and check-ins

  • Online gallery of all the best photos, individually edited

  • Access to the Print Shop where you can order prints, wall art, and more!

  • Casual and fun engagement session, at least 3 - 4 months before your wedding

Let’s Connect

If you’re planning a winter wedding like Avery & Dom’s and want your photos to feel like a true reflection of your values and relationships, I’d be honored to help you capture it all.

📩 Contact Me Today
📷 Learn More About Wedding Photography
📱 Follow along: @amandamay.photo

Amanda McGuire