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Inna + Michael ~ Romantic Summer Wedding at The Spencerville Mill

Updated: Aug 14

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Romance in Spencerville

There’s something magical about photographing a wedding in the place you call home — especially when it’s a venue you’ve admired since moving to the area. Inna and Michael’s light, romantic celebration at the Spencerville Mill was exactly that: heartfelt, beautifully detailed, and full of the kind of natural moments I love to capture.

From the warm, period charm of their getting-ready space at the Mackintosh House Bed & Breakfast, to golden light pouring through century-old windows during the ceremony, every part of this day was rooted in history, love, and thoughtful intention.

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Getting Ready at the Mackintosh House

Inna got ready at the stunning Mackintosh House, a historic B&B filled with soft light, antique charm, and so much character. The atmosphere set the tone for the day — calm, elegant, and deeply personal. She wore a delicate floral crown and had two dresses throughout the day, with makeup done by herself and hair styled by the amazing team at Richardson Hair Design Inc. in Kemptville.

Her bridesmaids wore powder blue dresses, and the groomsmen kept things relaxed and summery in soft grey while Michael sported a lovely linen suit. Every look felt effortless and timeless.


Meanwhile, downstairs....


A Private First Look & Personal Vows

Before heading to the Mill, Inna and Michael shared a quiet first look in the garden at the Mackintosh House. Surrounded by soft summer light and the charm of the historic property, they saw each other for the first time — just the two of them — and it was such a tender, honest moment.

What made it even more special was what followed: they exchanged private vows in the yard, away from the crowd and the structure of the day. It felt grounded and emotional, like a pause before the celebration to really connect and soak in what was about to happen. Documenting this part of the day — just the two of them, their words, and the warm breeze — was an absolute honour.

A Ceremony Steeped in Light & History

The ceremony took place in the Spencerville Mill, one of the most beautiful and historic venues in the area. Light streamed in through tall windows, illuminating the original wooden beams and textured brick. The setting was intimate and full of charm — an absolute dream to photograph.

Michael, wearing a tailored suit from Alan Browns in Brockville, couldn’t take his eyes off Inna as she walked down the aisle. Their connection was so genuine, and it was felt by everyone in the room.


Dreamy Details & Thoughtful Touches

One of my favourite parts of this wedding was how personal everything felt. Inna is an incredibly talented designer and potter — she created all the invitations, signage, and printed details herself through Inna Valchuk Design, and also made the hand-formed clay place cards at each setting, crafted through her pottery studio, Glyna Studio (on Instagram).

Guests contributed to multiple "wedding anniversary wish books" and played a custom crossword about the couple — just a few of the thoughtful, interactive details that made the celebration so unique.

The soft colour palette of white, powder blue, and soft green carried through the florals by Magnolia Flowers in Gananoque — loose, romantic arrangements that brought the whole space to life.

Rentals were provided by Fiesta Ottawa Event Rentals, and guests arrived in style thanks to Howard Bus Service out of Athens.


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Reception at the Mill

Upstairs at the Mill, the reception space was warm and full of natural light. With soaring ceilings, original beams, and carefully chosen decor, the room had a cozy-yet-elevated feel. Family and friends — with no hired planner — came together to decorate the space over the weekend, and they did an incredible job. Every table felt intentional and full of heart.

It’s rare to see such an outpouring of love not just from a couple, but from their whole community.


Capturing Their Connection

As a photographer, I’m always drawn to real, candid moments — the small glances, big belly laughs, and natural light that wraps around people in just the right way. This day was full of that magic.

Shooting in and around the Spencerville Mill, with its fairy-tale stone walls and golden-hour glow, was a dream. The way the light played with the textures inside the building made every frame feel like a painting.

And Inna & Michael? They’re the kind of couple who feel completely at ease in each other’s presence. Photographing them felt like witnessing something honest and joyful — the kind of love that doesn’t need to be posed.

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A Huge Thank You

To Inna and Michael: thank you for inviting me into your day, your story, and your community. And to the entire wedding party and families who helped make the day come to life — you created something truly special.



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