Inspired by wild love, food lovers and all things local, this elopement called ’Traditions are Meant to be Broken' set the stage for what it means to plan a wedding that is truly your own.  Meg Brunetti, from The Handmade Bride, an Ottawa bridal boutique that caters to brides who know themselves, dreamt up this alternative elopement to highlight couples who aren’t afraid of embodying their bold style on their wedding day.  A Forest green Arroh and Bow infinity gown for a wedding dress, a bouquet made by the groom, perusing Ottawa’s Byward Market for the best eats before reading vows amidst the wilderness of the Gatineau Hills will get any indie-couple excited about the possibilities of bringing all the things you love into your wedding day.

Jenna and Sebastien started off their day the way we all dream of: Snuggling in their pjs all morning, enjoying breakfast in bed made by him and getting ready together in their charming apartment they call home.  While Jenna got her hair done by Kessia from The Hair Hustle and makeup by Erin Heather Makeup and Hair, Sebastien took a walk to the Byward Market to surprise her with a bouquet of flowers made up of Jenna’s favourite colour palette - mauve, lavender, nude and lots of greens.  Fleurissant helped Sebastien choose the right mix of florals: rununculis, roses, astillbe, and lots of muted greens with the dusty miler for a soft, romantic look.      

After helping each other get dressed for their afternoon adventures, Jenna and Sebastien ventured off to the Byward Market at their favourite pizza parlour, Fiazza, followed by a pit stop at Sweet Jesus, the new hip ice cream shop that boasts long line ups around the block.  Before heading off to the forest, Sebastien and Jenna went jewellery shopping in the market at WunderKammer and selected a simple quartz bracelet and earring set to complete her boho outfit.

 With calligraphy by The Happy Ever Crafter, they recited their vows to one another against the backdrop of the Abbey ruins in Gatineau Park, encircled with gold candles and votives from Amy and Jen Decor.  They exchanged rings designed by Yuliya Chornia Jewellery (a grey rose cut diamond sun ring paired with a faceted band for him) from JVStudios and before spending the rest of the afternoon amidst the Canadian greenery.