Family Affair
September 12, 2015
compiled by Lindsay Ruck
photos by J E M M A N Photography (Elenora Luberto)
Marie and Graham met through a mutual friend at the Richmond Fair.
“Our first date was a Sens game against the San Jose Sharks.”
As the Ottawa Senators are the groom’s favourite team and the Sharks the bride’s, the pair turned their first date into a tradition and make a plan to see their teams every time they meet at Canadian Tire Centre.
Despite their differences on the ice, Graham knew he had found the one and popped the question Christmas morning with a little help from their kitten, Oscar.
“He put my engagement ring on Oscar’s collar. We are both cat lovers so it was perfect.”
The September ceremony was held at St. John the Evangelist Church — where the bride served as an altar girl.
“The priest, Father Falke, who is retired, agreed to perform the ceremony for us even though he is not the residing priest as he was the priest that [Marie] served for years.”
The bride entered the church on her father’s arm donning a custom satin and lace ball gown created by Stephanie Davis Designs and purchased at The Handmade Bride in downtown Ottawa. Accessories included a delicate lace-trimmed veil, a lace bolero for the ceremony and a custom-made jeweled belt for the reception.
Following the ceremony, guests made their way to the bride’s parents’ home in Manotick, Ontario. Thanks to AJ’s Catering, Marie and Graham’s 108 guests were wined and dined under a tent in a large hay field, surrounded by a hobby farm and horses.
“We pretty much personalized our entire menu and I still to this day receive compliments on how good the food was.”
Opportunity Knocks Events provided day-of coordination and were on-hand to carry out Marie’s navy and orange vision for the day.
“We could not have pulled off the vision without their hard work. They were in great spirits despite being soaked from transporting décor from the house to the tent.”
Birch branches filled tall vases, orange slices peppered shorter floral vases, custom-ordered linens from Mastermind Event Rentals draped tables and guests were encouraged to strike a pose in the photo booth.
Several unique touches made the couple’s day extra special. As a nod to Coronation Street — one of Marie and Graham’s favourite shows — a DIY “Rover’s Return” sign hung over the bar, a mini-putt was used for the kissing game, Quality Entertainment provided a slideshow for all to watch and enjoy, and in keeping with family tradition, Marie’s father’s classic car made a special appearance for the day.
The bride’s aunt created a three-tiered sweet treat complete with a Mr. & Mrs. topper. Another personal family touch came from Marie’s grandfather, as each guest received a yummy honey favour from Berry Blossom Honey. Golden Fries provided poutine for a savoury late-night snack.
Because of the rain on their wedding day, the couple decided to have a “take two” photoshoot to capture several beautiful outdoor shots, giving Marie another blissful day as a bride — lucky girl!
“Despite the torrential downpour that happened that day, once the guests were in the tent, they said they didn’t even realize it was raining. The day was amazing and I would do it all over again.”
