On the last day of summer, Jake and Carolina became husband and wife. I met these two creative people for the first time via a video call earlier in the year. We brainstormed location ideas for portraits after their intimate Ottawa City Hall wedding ceremony. They wanted photos in the city they love that represented their unique individual personalities and their relationship with each other. A few weeks later they came back with their plan and I was really excited. The whole day was also kept secret from most of their friends with only close family being present for the official bits. It was a day filled with simplicity and sincerity, a day where the focus was solely on the love shared between two people.
Ottawa City Hall Wedding
Carolina arrived from the city hall car park elevator in her most awesome jumpsuit. Walking into the waiting area, she provided a refreshing distraction for all those killing time before they could renew their driver’s license, get a permit for something or other, or pay their water bill. After the ceremony at city hall, I had the privilege of accompanying the couple in their Honda Civic to the Ottawa Central Experimental Farm Gardens, where they exchanged private vows. I hovered at a distance to document this teary moment, trying hard not to listen so I wouldn’t well up too.
“You know, people come to Italy for all sorts of reasons, but when they stay, it’s for the same two things.“
“What?“
“Love and gelato.”
― Jenna Evans welch, Love & Gelato
We then made our way to their favourite ice cream cafe in Little Italy, Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana, a place they frequented for date nights. As they shared their Mango Gelato, I documented the simple moments they would have already shared here many times before in a place where they felt comfortable and at ease. Next on the list was a stroll down the street and we came up with the final image, an unplanned moment of them crossing the street à la Abbey Road.
Ornamental Gardens, City Streets, Gelato & Wrestling
Just today I learned that after our photo session, they celebrated their reception at C*4 Wrestling! I love that they did everything to make this day unique and personal and all about them. Celebrating who they are together, the events and places that brought them together, and all the things that made up their combined history. To me, this wedding represents diversity in people and ideas – bold creativity and a kind of planned spontaneity (if that makes sense).
Crafting memories is what I strive for as a photographer. I want to create images that not only capture the elegance of a moment but also the emotions and connections shared between people. This intimate Ottawa city hall wedding was a testament to the love between two people and to the beauty of simplicity and sincerity. And I am grateful to have been a part of it, to have witnessed and captured these moments for Jake and Carolina to cherish for a lifetime.
Vendors
Wedding Dress: Stephanie Davis Designs
Stephanie Davis Designs is the perfect choice for women who like to have fun with fashion while feeling strong, confident, and beautiful in the clothing they wear. ‘Fancy Pants’ is her Mix n’ Match Bridal Collection that includes gorgeous jumpsuits like the one Carolina wore. I recommend checking out her collection for any bride looking to make a statement on her special day. The intricate details and quality craftsmanship in her designs are sure to make any bride feel stunning and unforgettable on their wedding day.
Accessories: Never Knew I Needed Bridal Boutique
Carolina’s accessories were from Never Knew I Needed bridal boutique (a sticky bra lol and a sparkly belt). Stephanie (who made Carolina’s wedding dress) does alterations here. Shout out to all the women at the store as a whole – they were all lovely.
Hairdresser: Maison Noi
Carolina’s gorgeous hair was done by Haesol at Maison Noi.
Suit: RW&CO
Jake admitted that he bought his suit from RW&CO two days before the wedding. I think that is what I meant by ‘planned spontaneity’. 🙂
Bridal Shoes: Famous Footwear
Carolina went with comfort with her white platform Converse from Famous Footwear. After recently hurting her ankle, this was a wise but also stylish decision.
Venue: Ottawa City Hall
Ottawa City Hall offers Civil Marriage Ceremonies at Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West, and in Orleans at 255 Centrum Boulevard. Ceremonies are simple and dignified and available in either English or French (bilingual ceremonies are not offered). The solemn service lasts approximately 20 minutes.
Location: Ornamental Gardens of the Ottawa Central Experimental Farm
The Ornamental Gardens of the Ottawa Central Experimental Farm offer a stunning backdrop for any photo session, with a diverse collection of hardy perennials and shrubs developed in Canada and from around the world. These gardens have been a favorite site for wedding parties and photographers since opening in the 1880s. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to capture a beautiful moment, the Ornamental Gardens are sure to provide a picturesque backdrop for your photos.
Location: Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana
For a picturesque photo session location (or just a sweet treat and coffee) in the heart of Little Italy, consider Pasticceria Gelateria Italiana in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. Everything at this charming bakery and gelato shop is made fresh in-house by pastry chef Joe Calabro and his talented team.
Photographer: Sara Atteby
I am Sara, an Ottawa Wedding Photographer based in the capital of Canada. I would love to document your wedding celebration. I’m available for engagement sessions, weddings, and elopements (mini-weddings) across Ontario, Canada, and internationally and my style is a mix of documentary and art. If you scrolled this far to see the full preview of this quirky and heartwarming intimate wedding, you probably like what you see, so why not contact me to book a free consultation for your wedding today?
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