above: The wedding party and guests
Everyone knows that the secret to falling in love is just taking that first step. For Julia Kerr and Justin Avellar, that first step became a long walk, and the long walk turned into a lifelong commitment to each other. The bride and groom met while both were pursuing a graduate law degree at the University of Chicago. Over drinks one night, they knew that their connection was special. Several years later, they were married in Canada, where the bride grew up. The wedding took place on Jericho Beach in Vancouver with a beautiful backdrop to enhance the celebration. To make it even more special, the bride’s younger cousins served as ring bearer and flower girl.
Julia is the daughter of Brent and Rowena Kerr of Vancouver. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology and political science from Queen’s University in Ontario, followed by a graduate law degree from the University of Chicago. Justin is the son of Joe and Linda Avellar of Stamford. He attended Tulane University and received a bachelor’s degree in history. He also attended the University of Chicago and earned a graduate degree in law.
Julia works for the law firm of Simpson Thatcher in New York City. Justin is an attorney for Sidley Austin, also in the city. The couple honeymooned in Taiwan and Japan and now reside in New York City.
Photographs: Steven Stemmler
