I started off my 2020 wedding season with a bang! Alex + Andy hosted family from the US and New Zealand for their wedding at Knox Presbyterian Church in downtown Ottawa. This wedding is full of emotions, DIY done right, and a great dance party!
True love really knows no boundaries – or borders.
They grew up on opposite sides of the world. Andy came to Canada from New Zealand a couple of years back to help build a church that his youth leaders started. Alex was living in the US at the time.
Little did Andy know that within a year he would meet the love of his life – in the most random way. Instagram, baby! Their lives collided, and after a month of chatting, Alex hopped on a plane to Ottawa to meet Andy. Her grandfather had been telling her that someone special was coming into her life, and she had a hunch that Andy was the one.
They intentionally planned a winter intimate wedding that truly reflected who they are as a couple.
They’re both actively involved in their church community, so it only made sense that they get married at Jesus’s place of worship. Andy’s youth pastor Levi led the ceremony, and it was emotional as he told everyone gathered how proud he was of Andy.
DIY weddings can definitely be gorgeous! Alex thrifted decor pieces, ordered greenery from Costco, and ordered bulk bouquets from a florist that she subtly rearranged.
They started the day by exchanging letters to one another. Their closest friends led worship, praying over Andy and Alex as they stood at the altar. The entire day was fun and lighthearted, but also extremely emotional and vulnerable. The speeches were all INSANE – I’ve never heard so many compelling, hilarious, touching speeches all within the span of an hour. Everyone was speaking from the heart, and it was so special to be there to witness it.
To top off the night, they had one of the liveliest dance floors I’ve ever seen! Everyone had a blast!
And instead of having a sparkler exit, they had a “ribbon exit” – another one of Alex’s awesome DIY ideas. It turned out awesome!
Ottawa Wedding Vendors:
Photographer: Mary Calotes Photography
Second Shooter: Danielle Aisling
Ceremony & Reception: Ottawa Knox Presbyterian Church
Caterer: Edible Impressions
Florist: Scrim’s Florist
If you love this intimate wedding, you may also love this laid back summer Umbrella Bar wedding!
