I met Julie years ago through my own Maid of Honour (shoutout to Hannah!), and when it came time for her and Kevin’s wedding, pretty much a decade in the making, I was so thrilled that they wanted me to photograph the day!
They’ve settled in Ottawa, and this was my first time there. Strathmere is just outside the city, and it is just such a beautiful property. I wish I could share all the images I took of the place – there are several different buildings, gardens, event spaces, as well as a spa, restaurant and inn. Definitely an incredibly scenic choice for a wedding!
When the day came the weather was perfect – nice and cool, a *slight* threat of rain but it was clear all day and we got amazing light.
Julie and Kevin and their wedding party were just such a joy to be around. Actually, everyone there that day was! It’s clear they’ve fostered really deep connections with people.
And their reception? Well let’s just say it was lively! Their kissing game involved singing a love song and this wedding had BY FAR the most people serenading the couple I’ve ever seen at any wedding.
It was a really fun, and sweet day.
Julie and Kevin, congratulations on choosing forever – I am so happy for you both and wish you endless happiness!
— Here’s a look at some of their wedding highlights, and read more about their love story & wedding at the bottom of the post!
Here’s their love story, and a bit about their wedding!
Kevin and I went to different high schools and met through mutual friends in Grade 12. We quickly became friends and started dating shortly after, prom was right around the corner of course! What everyone thought was just a prom date, quickly turned into a 4 year long distance relationship while we followed our own paths through University. This was followed by 4 years living with each other in Toronto and settling into our first home we purchased in Ottawa in December 2016. Kevin works as a Kinesiologist and I as a harpist and government worker, although our career paths are very different we bring out the best in each other’s interests due to the admiration we have for one another’s talents. We are both very independent individuals brought together by love and friendship. We are each other’s best friends and feel so fortunate to have found each other.
In July 2016 we took a road trip from Ottawa to Canada’s East coast (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland) to camp, hike, and to visit family and friends. One morning in Cape Breton we decided to hike the Skyline Trail, it is such a beautiful hike with views of mountains, the ocean and the Cabot trail that we had driven on throughout our time there. Along the hike we turned a corner and were greeted by a young moose grazing by the side of the trail. We had both seen many moose but never that close, it was an experience of a life time to watch such a beautiful creature in action (they are huge that close up!). At the peak of the hike we spotted two humpback whales in the ocean close by the shoreline, it was such a perfect day and little did I know these two experiences were not yet the grand finale! Once we finished the hike we stopped at a beautiful ocean view spot to have a picnic lunch, while exploring, Kevin distracted me for an instant and when I turned around he was then down on one knee!
What is your wedding theme / style / colour palette? Why did you choose this?
I chose a “grey hue” color palette, I love the way the colors tie into each other but also allow for individuality. I wanted the bridal party to choose their own style, colour of dress but also find a way to unify them. For our wedding I have tried to use local vendors/facilities. Supporting local business’ is really important to me.
What 3 words best describe your wedding?
Fun. Excitement. Love. We are so lucky to be surrounded by so much joy and fun loving individuals in our lives. We love having people around us and really want our wedding to be the biggest, most fun party we’ve hosted yet!
Venue: What made this venue the one for you?
As a harpist I have had the pleasure of playing for many weddings over the years in many venues. This venue is so beautiful, we love the outdoors and Strathmere has the most wonderful facilities and landscape. I know from experience that the staff at Strathmere are all dedicated, supportive and organized individuals and that is important to me; to support a local venue who provide quality services in a beautiful location.
Photographer: How did you know you had found the right photographer?
I met Anastasia a few years ago through one of my bridesmaids, her genuine nature and calm aura was an instant pleasure. For years I spent time swooning over all the amazing pieces of art she captures through her photos and I could tell by the reviews and my own personal encounter that her caring and supportive nature were exactly what we needed for our special day.
Any words of advice for couples planning their wedding?
Enjoy the process, it is so wonderful. Allow as many people to help as you can, it is a huge release of pressure and everyone loves getting involved and they appreciate the feeling of support they are offering you.
Quite possibly the most adorable couple you will ever see.
