For one of the most highly anticipated weddings in our extensive decade-long history, it's taken me a solid five years to finally share the complete story on my blog. Despite these iconic images circulating on Instagram and serving as inspiration on my Pinterest feed, I am thrilled to reintroduce Elias & Lauren's wedding, a truly special event close to my heart that was originally featured on Ruffled.
My initial encounter with Lauren occurred during the summer of 2017 when she made the journey from California to Ottawa to visit her fiancé, an Ottawa native. I believe both Lauren and I can attest to the fact that it was a perfect match. She once mentioned feeling as comforted and reassured as when consulting with the top California wedding planners before deciding to plan her wedding in Canada.
Lauren's vision of a French chateau provincial wedding was remarkably ahead of its time. Today, six years later, we are witnessing French estate weddings emerging as the latest trend. We obsessed over every detail together, from selecting the perfect handmade paper for her stationery to contemplating the potential wrinkles in the white curtains specially commissioned for the 60-foot ballroom window by Wedecor. We even pondered the idea of carpeting the entire floor. After weeks of deliberation, we shifted our focus to an epic secret floral tunnel that would only unveil itself to guests as they entered through the Chateau walls at the back of the ballroom following the cocktail hour. The moment when the room was revealed to the guests is still talked about today, and I highly recommend watching the video by Rowland Films for the goosebumps-inducing experience.
Throughout the year leading up to the wedding, numerous calls, virtual dress showings, and personal chats formed a beautiful and professional working friendship. This allowed us to be honest with each other and provided me with the opportunity to support her during the tougher moments with grace.
The wedding day itself was nothing short of magical. My team of five and I hit the ground running and never stopped. It took my Event Stylist and her Assistant four hours to meticulously arrange the stationery and tie each silk bow with precise tail measurements to achieve the desired "two loops and a bow" effect.
Now, as I sit here enjoying my cappuccino with Hugo by my side, nudging me for a share of the foam, I can honestly say that I would relive it all in a heartbeat. Looking back at these photos, I can't help but wonder, "How did we manage to make it all happen?" It truly does take a village.
xo Elise
Wedecor (Decor & Floral) Rowland Films (Videography) Chateau Laurier (Venue) Show Pony (Hair Stylist) One Fine Beauty (Makeup Artist) Valentina’s (Cakes & Sweets) Stella Luna (Gelato Cart)Adrenaline Entertainment (DJ)Jeff Rogers (Pianist) Aces Parade (Zaffe) MDRN (Photobooth)
