Where to begin to describe this day. Let me start off by stating that it is always a huge compliment when a fellow wedding photographer wants you as their photographer (how many times did I just type photographer?). In the Ottawa wedding photography space there are way too many names to count but this special lady and I clicked right away. I can’t say if it was our mutual love for The Office that first made us realize we have the same sense of humour but I am so glad we are friends. We share a similar sense of humour which is dry and sarcastic and are constantly quoting Dwight and Jim and I cannot think of a better foundation for a friendship if I am honest, can you? Laughing together is important!
We did the engagement photos in spring, and that day of course we arrived to take the engagement photos at the Arboretum and then it proceeded to pour rain. We waited it out under a tree and then we were blessed with a rainbow. I feel like if anyone would get a rainbow it would be Hilary and Matt because they’re just so sweet and kind together! Check out their engagement photos here.
Hilary & Matt’s wedding day was lovely and reflected their relationship perfectly, and despite the rain and early sunset – we all felt continuous warmth and joy through the day. No doubt this is thanks to all the touches that Hilary and Matt had planned for their wedding.
We started off the day with Hilary getting ready at her hotel suite, and planned for a reveal with Hilary’s father which was the sweetest moment that had me shedding tears. I am so glad that Hilary got to have this moment with her Father.
We next headed to the ceremony and I got to witness hand-fasting as part of Hilary and Matt’s wedding ceremony, which is the first time I had seen it. According to Brides.com, “Handfasting is an ancient Celtic ritual in which the hands are tied together to symbolize the binding of two lives”.
Afterwards we headed to the CP Grand in Almonte for photos and then back to The Barn in Almonte as well for their reception. The way they had set up the reception was inviting and classic. A fall theme with touches of The Office (I loved this) throughout. I think the Best Men gave one of the most memorable speeches I have heard in a long time. I can’t tell you exactly what was said but I will never forget how I felt – it was witty and kind all at once.
This Ottawa wedding is one I will cherish & not soon forget. Scroll down to see their day and don’t forget to share the blog if you liked it, & even leave a comment for the happy couple!
Vendors:
Wedding Dress: Essence of Australia – Sinders Bridal
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bill Levkoff – All That Glitters
Make-up: Liana Lacroix
Hair: Salon My Place
Wedding Rings: Jubilee (Hers) Farrah Fine Jewellers (His)
Bride’s Shoes: Aldo
Officiant: Michel Dubord (Groom’s Father)
Venue: The Barn
Florist: Pollen Nation
Coordinator/Planner: LOVE – Local Ottawa Valley Events
DJ: John Greenwood
Caterer(s): Perfect Portions Catering (Dinner), JS Creations (Desserts)
Wedding Cake: JS Creations
