written by alex:

as many of you know, my beautiful wife tiffany usually writes this blog.  but every now and then i like to take a moment to write from the heart regarding a certain event or photo shoot. don swinburne’s 60th birthday is one of those events.  i loved it so much, was so honored to be there, met so many wonderful people i just had to write this one myself.

so first off, i must warn you, you are about to see snow.  yes our canadian winters are long but not that long.  this event was shot a few months back but here’s the story…

we met lauren at laura and jamie’s wedding.  instantly we loved her.  her smile and energy was one of those that you say ” i would like to know this person more” and along they way that is just what we have done.  we have gotten to know lauren and she’s amazing.  the family’s business is the fabulous today’s bride magazine (canadian bride) in which we advertise and love so much.

so of course when lauren asked us to photograph her dad’s 60th birthday at none other graydon hall manor we were so honored!  don (dad) just recieved his printed album now and so we can finally post this momentous occasion for him.  we didn’t want him to see the photos here before he was presented with the album!!!

i arrived at graydon hall with a strange familiarity.  we shoot weddings here all through the summer but the estate covered in snow was new for me.  it had a romantic, fairy tale ambiance. the whole night was filled with excited and energy.  they are such a close family and wow, you could just feel the love.  it is so amazing to be able to observe while i photograph.  i mean, i get to be the fly on the wall for an evening.  to document moments that will forever be remembered!  wow, that is such a rare opportunity to be asked to participate in someone’s life for a short time.  thank you swinburne family for that honor.

so as we begin the photos, here are a few detailed photos of graydon hall in winter.  this estate is by far one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the toronto area. with gorgeous landscaping it is a great place for wedding photos. so if you happen to be planning a wedding, this location is one of the best! even if you are having a winter wedding, as you can see the grounds are still unbelievable!

they had beautiful linen invitations and menu cards made up specifically for the event.

if anyone has met don you will know that he has a heart of gold.  over the course of the evening i noticed that this family has a respect for don, a genuine bond between one another. how can you describe that in words?  it was just so wonderful to witness.

i can only hope that when i turn 60 that tif & i will feel the same towards each other.  i marvel at moments like this and feel so grateful to capture love on film.

make a wish…

back outside a fireworks show was presented to anyone willing to brave the cold.  what a great ending to an amazing night.  cigars, port wine… ahhhh, look at the smiling faces.

i had an amazing time and i can’t wait to document more swinburne family events in the future!  on behalf of the lifeimages team we are proud to congratulate you on your 60th birthday!