This intimate downtown Ottawa elopement took place at Major’s Hill Park with the gorgeous Fairmont Chateau Laurier as the backdrop.

When Ashley and Riyaz made the difficult decision to cancel their big wedding plans at the Four Seasons Hotel in Montreal, they knew they wanted to elope sometime in 2020. With all of the restrictions and uncertainty of Covid-19, they chose to elope in Ottawa, Ontario.

Ashley has been one of my best friends since we were five years old. We grew up down the road from each other, went to all of the same schools, played on the same sports teams, and have made many amazing memories together.

A few years ago, when Ash met Riyaz, I knew there was something different about him. He is the type of guy who would give the shirt off of his back if someone else needed it more. He has been so kind and gracious since the day I met him and he absolutely adores my best friend. He challenges her, he teases her, he makes her incredibly happy, and he is an amazing father figure to Ashley’s daughter, Pey.

Elopements have been the new trend for 2020 and I am loving it.

The elopement day is very relaxed, stress-free, and there is so much time to enjoy the little moments. I was able to get ready with Ash & Pey at the beautiful Andaz Hotel, which offers beautiful corner rooms with tons of natural light. If you are looking for a getting ready space in Ottawa, check out our blog post on bright prep spaces.

Ashley and Riyaz wanted a more formal elopement. I created a very lush, all white bridal bouquet with a few anemones to tie in to the “black tie” aesthetic. Stephanie Mason Photography & Co. captured all of their gorgeous details beautifully! It’s such a joy to work alongside Steph on a wedding day.

This is my second best friend to get married this summer and it has been such an honour to make both of their bridal bouquets and help plan each of their wedding days.

Ash, I can’t believe you’re married! I am so over the moon happy for you and Riyaz and I wish you a lifetime of happiness together!

Justin and I are so glad that we could be the witnesses for your elopement in Ottawa and to celebrate your special day with you guys. We love you guys!

Photographer: Stephanie Mason Photography & Co.
Wedding Planner & Florist: Sinclair & Co Design
Officiant: Angela Giles
Wedding Prep Venue: Andaz Hotels & Resorts
Hair: Top Knot
Makeup: Teri-Leigh Armstrong
Bride’s Dress: Katie May from Revolve
Bride’s Wedding Band: Stor By Margot
Groom’s Suit: Loro Piana
Brides Shoes: Prada & Chanel
Groom’s Shoes: Ferragamo

Has Covid-19 altered your wedding plans?
If you’re looking to plan an elopement in the Ottawa area, we’d love to help out!

For those of you who are looking for more wedding inspiration, Kathleen & Josh’s Nova Scotia wedding is on the blog now!