D&E met a few years ago and had a Covid Nikkah back in New York in 2021 but their families were so eager to celebrate their love that they planned a whole three-day extravaganza in July in D’s home town: Ottawa.

When Amelia from reached out to me in the winter and explained the plan to me, I got so excited so when D&E booked me a few days later I was over the moon!

The Andrew Haydon Park welcome Party

The first day was a welcome party at Andrew Hayden Park with a carnival theme. Amelia from Amelia Carleton Wedding and Event Planning planned the most perfect evening with clowns, games, pop corn, an inflatable castle, etc. It was also the first time I met D&E since they live in New York City and we did not have a chance to have an engagement session.

D is an Emergency care physician and E is vice president in a big firm, so they were really accomplished and yet so chill and laid back so our first contact was very smooth, the couple was very laid back, a lot like me.

The couple had lined up 4 different food trucks on site including the famous BeaverTails, Lou Fast Food for some yummy poutine, OLIVIA FOOD TRUCK for tacos and salads and Merry Dairy with their amazing ice cream.

The evening was filled with reunions, happy encounters, games and fun. It was the perfect welcome event to open the festivities!

The night ended with a beautiful Qawwali in a form of a late night picnic, giving the party a very romantic vibe!

The Canadian Museum of History Reception!

The second day was their big reception at The Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau. I started the day at the family house for some getting ready photos but mainly family photos. It makes my job as a photographer so much easier when the families of the couple are easy going and know what they want in terms of photos. The groom’s mom wanted to recreate an old family photo and it was so much fun and an emotional moment.

We then headed to the museum of History where I started with detail shots of the magnificent hall. That is also where we had our couple session, those stairs are truly one of my favorite engagement session location in Ottawa, such clean lines and perfect to put the emphasis on the couple.

This venue was chosen because D and his sister used to take the bus all the way from their house to the museum to spend time together, so the Canadian Museum of History had a special meaning to them.

Then it was time for more family and group photos and entrances! The rest of the night was composed of touching speeches, dance performances (including one from the groom’s mom!) and yummy Pakistani food.

The Backyard Enchanted Soirée

The goodbye soirée was held at the family’s home backyard and it truly felt enchanted. From the big tent that diffused the light so perfectly to the subtle but elegant flower arrangements, everything was chosen to create a beautiful and festive ambiance.

The guests enjoyed some more Pakistani food and were delighted with more touching speeches and ended the night with a dance party!

It was the perfect way to close the celebration, the night felt intimate and cozy.