Alannah + Gabriel

Wedding at the St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral and The Westin Ottawa

Being a wedding photographer, you are exposed to many different cultures and experiences. If you've never been to a Lebanese wedding, you don't know what you're missing. It's a celebration full of love, family, tradition... and one hell of a party!

Alannah, Gabe and I had the chance to get to know each other over of a little road trip to the 1000 islands where we shot their engagement session. You can see images from that shoot here. Having the time to get to know them better before their big day allowed me to feel more like a friend at the wedding, rather than the "hired photographer".

The wedding day started off at Alannah's parents' house where the party (arouss) was in full effect. Zaffee dancers and loads of family and friends gathered there to greet Alannah and send her off to the ceremony, held at the St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral. The church was beautifully decorated by The Design Co. 

After the doves were released at the church (yes, they had doves!), all the guests headed over to The Westin for an emotional reception and mega dance party. Thanks to Julie from Chic Wedding Planners for coordinating one of the biggest and craziest parties of the year!!

Photography by Derrick Rice