It was the kind of August day you dream about when planning a summer wedding. The humidity broke just in time, leaving us with blue skies, a gentle breeze, and the kind of golden sunlight that makes everything look a little bit magical. But honestly? Even if it had poured rain, I don’t think it would have dampened the spirits of this incredible group.

A Celebration of Connection

From the moment Sarah and Noémie arrived, the vibe wasn’t about “putting on a show”—it was entirely about connection.

As an LGBTQ2S+ wedding, there is often a profound layer of chosen family and deep community support, and that was palpable here. Every guest present wasn’t just an attendee; they were an active participant in Sarah and Noémie’s love story. The air was filled with a sense of safety, belonging, and overwhelming joy.

“It didn’t feel like a formal event with a guest list; it felt like a massive, joyful family reunion where two soulmates just happened to be getting married in the middle of it.”

The Beantown Charm

Beantown Receptions provided the perfect backdrop for this rustic, intimate vibe. The venue’s natural beauty meant we didn’t need much décor to make the day shine.

We took full advantage of the scenery for the portraits. Sarah and Noémie were an absolute dream to photograph. There were no stiff poses or forced smiles—just the two of them, laughing, holding hands, and enjoying a quiet moment away from the crowd. The way they look at each other is the definition of “home.”

Highlights of the Day

The Weather: We truly hit the jackpot. That late-August sun provided the most stunning golden hour for our evening shots.
The Vibe: Relaxed, authentic, and full of laughter. Shoes were kicked off, ties were loosened, and the dance floor was packed.
The Love: Seeing two people so unapologetically in love, surrounded by a crowd that champions them, is a reminder of why we do this.

A Night to Remember

As the sun went down and the string lights of Beantown flickered on, the reception turned into one big party. There were heartfelt speeches that left not a single dry eye in the house, followed by dancing that shook the floorboards.

Sarah and Noémie, thank you for trusting us to capture your day. Your wedding was a beautiful reminder that at the end of the day, love is simple, love is kind, and love is family.

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Venue: Beantown Receptions
Photographer: Andrew Van Beek

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Flavie and Ben celebrated their beautiful wedding in the charming village of L’Orignal, Ontario. Although these two spend their busy days practicing medicine, they focused entirely on their shared bond for this special occasion. Consequently, their wedding felt like the perfect remedy for a long work week.

A Celebration Steeped in History

The couple chose Riverest because they wanted a venue with deep roots and character. Since L’Orignal is the oldest village in the Prescott-Russell area, the town offers a unique, timeless atmosphere.

Furthermore, the venue itself serves as a local treasure. Originally built in 1833 for a prominent merchant, this beautifully restored stone home carries nearly two centuries of history. Because of its location near the oldest jail in Ontario, the site feels incredibly historic. Fortunately, Flavie and Ben only planned for a “life sentence” of love!

The Perfect Dose of Fun

While they usually navigate fast-paced medical environments, Flavie and Ben transitioned perfectly into “celebration mode.” Several highlights made the day truly unforgettable:

• Riverside Vows: They exchanged rings right on the banks of the Ottawa River.

• A Strong Support System: Their families and medical colleagues brought incredible energy to the event.

• The Party: After months of caring for patients, the couple finally let loose on the dance floor.

A Lifetime of Happiness

Flavie and Ben, your dedication to your patients inspires everyone, yet your devotion to each other shines even brighter. It was an honor to witness your new chapter begin in such a historic corner of Ontario.

Cheers to the happy couple! May your future bring you health, happiness, and many relaxing days by the water.

Venue: Riverest
Photographer: Andrew Van Beek
Video: Opus 38

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If you know Ashley and Marc, you know they are usually found somewhere off the grid. As serious outdoor enthusiasts, their natural habitat involves hiking boots, paddleboards, and questionable cell service.

But for one Saturday in Ottawa, they traded the Gore-Tex for formal wear (and looked incredible doing it) to celebrate with the people who matter most. It wasn’t a hike up a mountain, but the energy was just as high.

The Ceremony: A Hydration Event

We started the day at the Ottawa Wedding Chapel, a beautiful spot that sets a great tone.

I have to mention a specific family trait here: Ashley’s side of the family are criers. And I don’t mean a single, delicate tear rolling down a cheek. I mean full-on, dehydrating waterworks. I’m pretty sure they are single-handedly keeping the facial tissue industry in business. It was hilarious, incredibly sweet, and made for some of the most genuine photos of the day.

I also pulled double duty for this one, shooting video of the ceremony alongside the photography. It made the workflow fast-paced and fun, allowing me to capture the audio of those vows (and the sniffles from the front row) to round out the story.

The Party: Pints by the River

After the “I dos” and some portraits on the chapel grounds, we headed over to the Mill Street Brew Pub for the reception.

Mill Street is such a solid choice for a couple like this. It’s got that historic, rustic grit that outdoor lovers appreciate, without the need to pitch a tent. We took advantage of the stone walls and the river views for the rest of the portraits, and the vibe was exactly what they wanted: great beer, zero stiffness, and a lot of laughter.

Ashley and Marc, thanks for trusting me to document the madness, the tears, and the beers. Here’s to your next big adventure!

The post The Ottawa Wedding Chapel AND The Mill Street Brewing Company Wedding! appeared first on Ottawa Wedding & Portrait Photography.

N and V invited their nearest and dearest to their private farm near Dunrobin for a June celebration that was 100% homegrown. It was honest, relaxed, and a testament to what happens when a community comes together to make something great happen.

A True Team Effort

The term “DIY” gets thrown around a lot in the wedding world, but N and V took it to heart. This wasn’t about buying pre-made decor off the internet; it was a hands-on labour of love.

You could feel the fingerprint of their friends and family on every part of the day. From the setup to the logistics, this wedding was built by the people who love them most. It gave the entire event a grounded, welcoming atmosphere that you just can’t buy with a standard venue package. It felt less like a production and more like a massive, stylish family reunion.

Rolling with the Weather

June in the Ottawa Valley is beautiful, but it keeps you on your toes. We had a warm day with plenty of humidity and the occasional bout of rain.

While some couples might stress over the forecast, N and V took it in stride. The passing showers just added a bit of drama to the skyline and gave everyone a good excuse to huddle closer under the tents with a drink in hand. The result was lush, green backdrops and a vibe that remained high-energy, rain or shine.

The Experience

Because the wedding was on their own turf, the timeline felt fluid and unhurried. N and V were able to actually spend time with their guests, enjoying the food, the space, and the incredible party they built from the ground up.

It was a perfect reminder that you don’t need a ballroom to have a world-class wedding. You just need good people, a good plan, and a little bit of help from your friends.

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Bleeks & Bergamot is more than just a venue; it’s an experience. The picturesque grounds offer endless opportunities for breathtaking photos, from the lush gardens to the charming architectural details. Every corner seems to tell a story, and it was a delight to explore it all with Marisa and Matt. The staff are incredible, ensuring every detail is perfect, and their dedication truly shines through. If you’re looking for a venue that combines natural beauty with impeccable service, look no further!

This wedding was particularly special for a few reasons. We were so honored to have the wonderful Alan Viau as the officiant for Marisa and Matt’s ceremony. Alan and I have had the privilege of working together for almost two decades, sharing in countless beautiful moments and helping couples begin their new lives together. It was bittersweet to realize that this would be his last wedding before retirement, but what a spectacular way to conclude such an illustrious career. His warmth, humor, and profound ability to connect with couples will be deeply missed in the wedding community. We wish him all the very best in his well-deserved retirement!

It also felt like a lovely reunion, as I had the pleasure of photographing Matt’s sister’s wedding a while back. It’s always a wonderful feeling to work with families again, and the entire family was just as warm, welcoming, and fun to be around. It truly makes our job a dream when we get to spend the day with such genuine and kind people.

Marisa and Matt, your love story is truly inspiring, and it was an honor to document the beginning of your next chapter. Thank you for trusting us with your precious memories. We wish you a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and endless love!

Venue: Bleeks & Bergamot

Makeup: Stephanie Bullock Makeup

Here’s a peek at some of the magical moments from their day:

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The Mackenzie King Estate in Gatineau Park is a magical place steeped in history and natural beauty. It’s no wonder that Lucy and Vincent chose this enchanting spot to say “I do.” On a bright, sunny day in August, with the ruins in Mackenzie King’s former estate as their backdrop, they exchanged vows in a ceremony that was as unique and special as their love story.

Lucy, radiant in her elegant dress, was every bit the English rose; her family had travelled from across the Atlantic to celebrate with her. Vincent couldn’t take his eyes off his bride. The air was filled with love, laughter, and the sweet scent of the towering white pines.

The ceremony was a beautiful blend of British tradition and modern flair. Lucy, radiant, was escorted down the aisle while joyful smiles beamed from family and friends. The couple exchanged heartfelt vows, promising to love and cherish each other for all the days of their lives. Everything flowed seamlessly, a testament to the impeccable planning by Denisa from Pop-Up Weddings.

Lucy and Vincent’s wedding was a truly unforgettable event, a celebration of love, family, and the beauty of nature. We wish them a lifetime of happiness together.

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This past Fall,  on a beautiful mid-September day, Sarah and Scott exchanged vows in a heartwarming ceremony at the historic Chelsea Pub. This charming venue, nestled in the heart of Chelsea, Quebec, provided the perfect backdrop for their intimate celebration.

A Local Love

Scott, a childhood Chelsea resident, chose to honour his roots by hosting his wedding in his beloved hometown. Sarah, while not a native of Chelsea, fell in love with the town’s charm and embraced it as her own. The Chelsea Pub, with its cozy atmosphere and rich history, offered an authentic and personal touch to their special day.

An Intimate Gathering

The couple opted for an intimate gathering of close friends and family, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The Chelsea Pub’s outdoor area was the ideal setting for a relaxed cocktail hour, allowing guests to mingle and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The nearby Les Jardins Sheffield provided a picturesque location for their wedding photos. The 1800s farm, with its lush greenery and vibrant flowers, created a stunning backdrop for the couple’s portraits.

Sarah and Scott’s wedding was a beautiful celebration of love, family, and community. We wish them a lifetime of happiness together.

Vendors:

• Venue: Chelsea Pub, Chelsea, Quebec
• Photography: Andrew Van Beek

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Despite the mostly overcast skies, the warmth of the day perfectly complemented the couple’s vibrant energy. Their infectious enthusiasm was palpable, setting the tone for a truly unforgettable celebration.

As guests arrived, they were greeted by the picturesque backdrop of the venue. The elegant ambiance of Le Belvedere provided the perfect setting for N+R‘s special day.

The ceremony was a beautiful blend of traditional and modern elements, reflecting the couple’s unique personalities. The reception that followed was a night of dancing, delicious food, and heartfelt speeches.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the venue, N+R shared their first dance as husband and wife. The moment was filled with love and tenderness, capturing the essence of their bond.

We wish N+R a lifetime of happiness and love. May their journey together be filled with joy and adventure.

The day was perfectly topped off by the insanely rare opportunity to photograph N+R with one of the strongest Aurora Borealis we have seen in years. If that isn’t good luck, I don’t know what is…

Special thanks to Le Belvedere, Love Letter Wedding Films, and Tatianna—Michelline Event Co for making a great day even better.

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The church, a classic Ottawa landmark, provided a serene backdrop for the couple’s heartfelt vows. Guests fanned themselves with programs, their faces flushed with a mix of joy and heat. But the radiant smiles of the bride and groom quickly melted away any discomfort.

Following the ceremony, guests made their way to the reception venue, where the atmosphere was a refreshing contrast to the outdoor heat. The space was transformed into a magical oasis, adorned with elegant decor. Every detail was meticulously planned, creating a truly enchanting ambiance.

The reception menu was a delightful blend of traditional favourites and modern twists. From classic dishes that satisfied the heartiest appetites to innovative culinary creations that tantalized the taste buds, there was something to please everyone.

As the night wore on, the dance floor came alive as guests swayed to the rhythm of the music. Despite the heat, everyone was caught up in the joy of the occasion, their bodies moving to the beat and their hearts filled with happiness for the newlyweds.

Kim and Cam’s wedding was a truly unforgettable event. It was a celebration of love, family, and friendship, and it was a testament to the couple’s ability to create magic even in the most challenging of conditions. Here’s to Kim and Cam, and may their love continue to burn as brightly as the summer sun.

The post A St Patrick Parish Wedding for Kim & Cam appeared first on Ottawa Wedding & Portrait Photography.

A tent had been prepared as a precautionary measure, but as the ceremony hour approached, a collective decision was made to move the festivities outdoors. Umbrellas blossomed like colorful flowers, and laughter replaced any hint of worry. Remarkably, negativity was nowhere to be found. Instead, a spirit of cooperation and joy filled the air as everyone pitched in to ensure the day was as magical as possible.

As Vanessa and David exchanged their vows, the St. Lawrence River, a majestic witness, seemed to share in the couple’s joy, its waters mirroring the sky’s reflection. It was a day where the power of human connection shone through, a testament to the unwavering support and love that surrounded the couple.

And so, the rain fell, but love prevailed. It was a day filled with unexpected beauty, resilience, and a bond strengthened by shared experiences. Vanessa and David’s wedding in Long Sault was a testament to the fact that even the most challenging circumstances can be transformed into a celebration to remember.

Did I mention that it rained?

Enough about the rain and on to this great day…

With friends and family like these, nothing else matters

This is how Vanessa and David handled the rain…

Walking along the old Highway 2 which was flooded in the late 1950s so that we could have a cool spot to photograph 65 years later

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