Samantha and Ryan married on a perfect day in August and I was so honoured to be there. Samantha is my cousin, and I’ve known Ryan for many years now. We even live just a couple blocks away from each other! They are such a complimentary match for each other, and have been friends (and more!) since high school! They share a friend group who witnessed as they said their vows, and toasted them (with plenty of roasting!) during their reception, both of which were held at NeXT Restaurant in Stittsville.
Their plan had been to get married last year, but as with so many couples they needed to postpone due to the pandemic. So they were beyond ready for this day! We took their engagement portraits in Merrickville over the winter. Sam wore a long green skirt for those, and her lovely bridesmaids continued that look for the wedding.
Ryan and his groomsmen got ready at the Brookstreet Hotel, with Sam and her ladies doing the same a few floors away. Being there with them during that exciting time, which is always filled with anticipation, was so special. I’ve never been so excited to see a bride get into her dress! And WOW, she was stunning! Samantha is very petite, and her dress suited her so well. She was stunning, graceful, and oh so elegant. She had Ryan had their first look at the hotel, and he could not stop smiling when he saw her!
We took all of the portraits near the hotel, then headed to the restaurant. There was a separate room blocked off for the ceremony. The flower girl and ring bearer (niece and nephew) were very shy but did their jobs admirably. Sam grinned coming down the aisle the whole way, but later teared up during her vows to her “staggeringly handsome” new husband.
The room was transformed after cocktail hour to accommodate all the guests. We were treated to the best/worst shoe game that I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen a lot now!) — I think they matched on maybe 1/10 answers! The speeches gave us glimpses into the beginning of their relationship and their strengthening bond over the years. There were jokes, more jokes, and many kind words. And in between it all was an amazing smorgasborg of food. NeXT is known for being one of the city’s top restaurants, and it did not disappoint!
Samantha and Ryan, thank you for asking me to be part of your long-awaited wedding day. I hope your memories of it stay clear and joyful for all the years to come.
