Ottawa weddings are going green. The eco-friendly trend is big in and around the nation’s capital, reflecting a love of the outdoors that many couples feel.

“Ottawa brides are very outdoorsy,” says Rose Tenuta of Bridal Solutions, who offers event planning in both Ottawa and Toronto. “They love garden ceremonies, often with a personal twist. Wedding favours such as special cards that you plant in the garden that grow into flowers are very popular here.”

Even the threat of inclement weather doesn’t deter couples determined to say their vows outdoors. Most have an emergency back-up plan, but many are willing to brave Ottawa’s somewhat unpredictable climate. 

Earl Stanley, of Stanley’s Old Maple Lane Farm, recalls a wonderful winter wedding where the bridal party and all the guests were taken by horse-drawn sleigh into the bush where three huge bonfires blazed, waiting to warm them. Fireworks are another popular choice for a spectacular outdoor wedding experience, often timed for just before or just after the garter.

“Weddings have a more relaxed, laid back feel these days,” says Stanley, who offers personalized service to take care of all the details. “We don’t have cookie cutter packages. We’ve had grooms arrive by helicopter,  horseback or motorcycle. We’re had the bride and groom riding on a 300 hp tractor. We specialize in originality. Whatever they want, we can provide.”

The natural trend continues into indoor wedding decor. “Less is more in Ottawa,” says JP Fournier, an Ottawa DJ and decorator. ”Natural elements like stones and water are often incorporated into the decorating theme. Or fall leaves may be part of the design for a wedding cake.”

Balloons are totally out and elegant flower arrangements are in for church and hall, according to Sandra Dube of Perfect Petals Flowers and Gifts. Tables may be lit underneath for a stunning effect or flowers combined with votives or candelabras for distinctive centerpieces. It’s all in the details and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

“There’s a definite shift towards classic, feminine looks rather than the big, cascading bouquets of years ago, says Dube. “Ottawa brides love the Victorian appeal of hand-tied bouquets, often choosing callas and roses in soft colours.“

Sometimes stefanotis, a small, fragrant star-shaped flower in creamy white is inserted or all stefanotis may be used for a very Victorian effect. These elegant, pretty bouquets compliment any style of gown.

Rose Tenuta confirms the popularity of traditional styles. “Ottawa brides like sincere looks, with simple jewellery and classic princess designs in organza or lace.”

Chocolate is the biggest colour of the season, showing up everywhere, even in chocolate pinstripes for the groomsmen. “We’re seeing different shades like dark chocolate and mocha mixed together, with bronzes or maybe silver chargers, to make a refreshing change for fall and winter,” says Tenuta. “One other thing Tenuta loves about Ottawa brides is how thoughtful they are regarding the needs of their guests and others. It’s not unusual for brides to arrange to have leftovers shipped to a local soup kitchen.

“Ottawa couples are very friendly and willing to try something fun,” says Jerome Scullino, who runs Seize the Moment Photography with his wife Nisha. “I try to capture something unique to the client – who they are on that day, what they like.’

In the end, Ottawa loves a party, with weddings growing ever bigger. “We’re seeing parties of 200 more often,” says JP Fournier. “Crooners are back in style too, like Michael Bublé. It gets everybody of all ages up on the dance floor.” - Diane Jermyn