August 30, 2014
The first time Chris brought Cynthia to Ottawa’s Aviation Parkway, he asked her to be his prom date. He would bring his bride-to-be back to the Parkway to pop the big question.
Upon reaching the edge of the lookout, Cynthia discovered a peppering of roses and a small box. “He got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Chris had asked one of my closest friends to capture the moment and I’m so glad he did.”
With the help of her groom, friends, and family, Cynthia (an interior decorator) brought her “detailed vision” to life with several DIY elements and personal, sentimental touches.
Surrounded by 110 of their closest friends and family members, Cynthia married the love of her life at Knox Presbyterian Church in downtown Ottawa.
“The way the piano and singing fills the room; the sun gleaming through the stained glass windows; and the architectural details – it was more than we could have ever dreamed of.”
The beautiful bride donned a strapless Reem Acra Heavenly Lace A-line gown featuring hand-sewn Alençon lace appliqués over whimsical tulle.
“One of my favourite memories was knowing all of our guests and my husband were behind the church doors waiting for them to open. I treasure that last, quiet moment with my dad before I walked down the aisle.”
Tears of joy filled Chris’ eyes upon seeing his bride. Cynthia’s mother joined the procession halfway down the aisle as both parents proudly gave their daughter away.
“Our ceremony was the most important part of the day to us. We picked all of our music used in the ceremony and our worship team and pianist played the songs. We selected unique vows and personalized them to reflect our relationship.”
A cocktail hour and sit-down reception followed at the Museum of Nature.
The breathtaking views of Queen’s Lantern, which stands on the original 100-year-old mosaic floor at the base of a 65-foot high glass tower, proved to be the perfect venue for the newlyweds to share an intimate toast with their guests before heading to the Barrick Salon for dinner.
With oak-panelled walls and a restored historic maple floor, the natural setting overlooking downtown Ottawa complemented Cynthia’s vision perfectly.
Personal touches included a hand- painted floral photo booth backdrop, a seating chart hand-written on a large, ornate mirror, fresh plums holding placecards, and a dessert table featuring homemade goodies baked by loved ones.
The Girl with the Most Cakes created a three-tiered stunner complete with buttercream icing, the couple’s monogram, and floral details.
“Our colour scheme was created around our favourite colour: navy. We liked how the deep navy bridesmaid dresses emphasized the soft shades of white used throughout the wedding. To create visual interest, we balanced the deep navy with berry-toned flowers.”
Stone Blossom Floral Gallery arranged beautiful gatherings of white garden roses with shots of berry hues and dusty miller.
“We wanted to make our wedding day very personal and have it not only reflect us, but our guests as well.”
The couple enjoyed an evening that not only celebrated their love, but also those nearest and dearest. W
