So you’re engaged—congrats, friend! The Pinterest boards are filling up, the group chats are buzzing, and the wedding world is suddenly...a lot. I’ve been there (on the other side of the lens), and I’m here to tell you: planning your wedding doesn’t have to feel like a second job.

The secret? Don’t go it alone. Hiring the right Ottawa wedding vendors—especially a planner—is hands down the best way to protect your peace and get the wedding you’re dreaming of.

Here’s your chill, photo-friendly, vendor-powered planning guide, straight from a film photographer who works with Ottawa’s best.

1. Start with Your People, Not Just Your Pinterest Board


Before you dive into centerpieces or signature cocktails, lock in your venue, planner, and photographer. These three vendors shape the flow of your day, your guest experience, and your memories.

Venue: Ottawa has so many gems—urban, rustic, and in-between. Favourites include Le Belvédère, Evermore, the National Gallery, and Ottawa Art Gallery .

  • Planner: Whether it’s full-service or month-of, a planner is your behind-the-scenes superhero. They help design, schedule, and troubleshoot everything so you can enjoy your day.
  • Photographer (hi, it's me 👋): Your photographer doesn’t just take pretty pictures—we work closely with your planner to keep the day running smoothly, adjust timelines, and make space for real moments.

📍 Local Tip: Book these three vendors 12–18 months in advance, especially for popular seasons.


2. Build a Vendor Dream Team That Gets You

Your vendors = your inner circle. Choose pros who align with your style and your energy.

Here are the key players you'll want to lock in:

  • Planner: Your MVP. They help you hire, style, budget, and execute. My faves in Ottawa include [insert your real faves here—want me to help build a list?].
  • Florist: More than bouquets—they bring the entire vibe together. Choose someone whose work makes your heart skip.
  • Hair & Makeup Artists: Bonus points if they build extra buffer time and bring calming energy to the morning.
  • Stationers, Calligraphers, Bakers, Musicians, DJs: Trust me, good vendors make everything smoother for everyone—especially you.

💛 Photographer pro tip: When your vendors are in sync, the day feels calm. That’s when the best, most emotional photos happen.


3. Create a Timeline With Your Planner and Photographer

Your wedding day isn’t just a schedule—it’s a story unfolding. To keep it flowing naturally and leave space for beautiful photos, work with your planner and photographer to:

  • Build in breathing room (you want to feel present, not rushed)
  • Plan a first look if you want more photo time before the ceremony
  • Prioritize golden hour portraits for that dreamy, glowy light
  • Schedule detail shots early in the day while HMU is finishing

The best timelines are flexible, collaborative, and designed with intention—not copied off a wedding website.


4. Seasonality & Vendor Availability in Ottawa

Ottawa’s seasons are gorgeous—and each one brings different vendor considerations:

  • Spring: Tulips + blossoms = dreamy photos, but unpredictable weather. Have a rain plan.
  • Summer: Outdoor-friendly, golden light, busy vendor calendars.
  • Fall: Peak booking season. Rich color palettes, cozy vibes. Book early!
  • Winter: Quiet season, great for intimate weddings. Think candlelight, faux fur, and snowy portraits.

🎯 Planning Tip: Your vendors can guide you on seasonal tweaks. A good florist will pivot designs if your fave blooms are out of season. Your planner can find heaters, tenting, or cozy indoor backups. I have a blog post about this specific subject.

5. Surround Yourself with Good People (On Purpose)

The truth is: your wedding experience is shaped by who’s around you—not just what you wear or where you get married.

Hire vendors who:

  • Respect your vision
  • Communicate clearly
  • Take initiative (you don’t need 100 questions on your wedding morning)
  • Are fun to be around (seriously—this matters more than you think)

You’ll never regret investing in people who take care of you. It makes the whole day smoother, lighter, and way more joyful.



Looking for a photographer who loves working alongside amazing vendors, captures the real moments, and helps your day feel smooth from start to finish?

Let’s chat. Reach out here or say hey on Instagram @sarah.dja.