In the comfort and warmth of Michelle & Andy's wedding reception, friends and family reminisced about the early days of their love story. In their speeches, the wedding party told stories that dated back to elementary school. We heard about high school parties, driving lessons, trips to Cancun...
And it made me think about how special it is to find your person early on in life. I know firsthand what it's like to marry your prom date. Michelle & Andy, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for having me join you on your amazing wedding day. It was really special to witness your vows and meet your crazy-wonderful entourage.
Let's kick off this post with some photos of the girls getting ready at Le Belvedere's cozy Guest House...
If you know Michelle personally, you won't be surprised at all to see her fur baby, Harley, joining the wedding festivities. In fact, you're probably wondering what he will be wearing when he goes down the aisle...
Michelle looked so perfect, with hair by Showpony and makeup by The Spa Angels.
This bouquet was created by Bloomfields. The subtle purples and blues go perfectly with the rest of Michelle & Andy's details.
Any bride who lets her pup hang out on the bottom of her dress is my kinda girl. Harley sat on her train for the whole morning, never wanting to leave her side.
Back in Kanata, the guys were getting ready with a beer in hand (or gatorade and vodka for Andy). This first shot of him ironing his shirt is one of my favourites.
Such a guy's guy. He was excited to finally wear these cufflinks :)
A gift for the lucky groom...
Back at the Guest House, Michelle was ready for a first look with her dad. It's pretty unanimous from the bridesmaids that this moment was one of the best all day. Michelle's dad was in awe of how gorgeous she looked in her dress...
It's moments like this that I know I'm in the right place. Being able to document a memory for someone else, it's a beautiful thing.
Time for Michelle to read a "novel" written by her groom :)
And open his gift of a diamond tennis bracelet...
The day was a mix of pouring rain and sunshine peeking through the clouds. Thankfully the rain held off and we were able to have their ceremony outside!
The Gatineau Hills were the most spectacular backdrop for their wedding at Le Belvedere.
Andy's mom is so sweet. We became good buds by the end of the day, and I know she would appreciate a sneak peek of her walking down the aisle with her son.
Michelle's best friend, Carol, sang "A Thousand Years" while they signed the registry. I hope she knows how beautiful it was!
A perfect first kiss...
The chandeliers, the natural light...it's a photographer's dream.
The cupcake tower from Thimble Cakes made the whole room smell a little bit like sugar :)
Something different for the bride & groom's entrance! The whole crowd stood and joined them on the dance floor to a great party track. It was a really fun way to kick off the night :)
Their first official dance happened right as the sun was setting. The whole sky lit up in a vibrant blue...
A slideshow of memories. Look how young they were!!
One final shot of Mr. & Mrs. Hartin:
M&A, enjoy your honeymoon next week!!
I can't wait for you to see the full gallery when you get home <3
THE CREATIVE TEAM:
Venue: Le Belvedere
Florals: Bloomfields
Photography: Laura Kelly Photography
Hair: Showpony Hair
Makeup: Spa Angels
Bride's Dress: Kitty Chen from Luxe Bridal
Bride's Shoes: Etsy
Bridesmaids Dresses: Donna Morgan from With Love Bridal
Bride's Earrings: Luxe Bridal
Engagement Ring: Simon G
Wedding Bands: Tiffany & Co., Birks
Menswear: Tip Top Tailors
Groom's Accessories: The Tie Bar
Paper Goods: Kayla Scarr Designs
Invitations: Minted
Officiant: Joan from All Seasons Wedding Officiants
Reception Linens: Mastermind Rentals
DJ: Quality Entertainment
Photo Booth: Ottawa Gatineau PhotoBooth
Cupcakes: Thimble Cakes
A NOTE ABOUT THE VENUE:
I've been asked so many times about my favourite venue in the city. Well, friends, you've just witnessed it. Le Belvedere is nestled in the cozy woods overlooking the Gatineau Hills. Prior to the ceremony, the guests were mingling and enjoying the view. It felt intimate and luxurious all at the same time.
When it came time to head inside, I was overcome with the friendliness of the staff and the deliciousness of each course. The owner, Jessica, made sure the experience went smoothly and that everyone was taken care of. As a photographer, I can appreciate her eye for detail. It's the little things that really add up to make a venue great, and Jessica does all of that and more.
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