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A 1940s-Inspired Wedding in Ottawa

Updated Apr 11, 2016

| By Lindsay Mar

When it came to choosing the perfect theme for their wedding, Karen and Al knew exactly what they wanted. “Al is a World War II buff,” explains Karen, a theatre professor at a local college. “So a 1940s costume party seemed like the perfect combination of our interests!”

Donning an A-line wedding dress and a World War II uniform respectively, Karen and Al fittingly said their “I dos” at Ottawa’s Canadian War Museum in front of 200 of their closest family and friends. To complement the wedding’s theme and her vintage art deco engagement ring, Karen chose to make her own bridal bouquet, using old brooches donated by loved ones.

For their reception, the couple chose to incorporate whimsical, 1940s-inspired décor, from toy soldier candle holders to heart-shaped confetti made from vintage-style paper. Staying true to their 1940s theme, the couple also did a choreographed swing number to the Andrew Sister’s 1941 wartime hit “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy of Company B” for their first dance.

While there were many memorable details from their big day, Karen and Al admit they especially loved seeing their family and friends having fun decked out from head to toe in 1940s costumes.

Karen Roach and Al Saumure, May 12, 2012, Ottawa, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of KIM ING Photography.

Vendors
Ceremony and reception location: Canadian War Museum
Bridal gown: Mori Lee from Sinders Bridal House
Bridal party attire: Ragtime Vintage Clothing, Etsy, Black Market Vintage, The History Bunker and What Price Glory Groom’s tux: The History Bunker
Music: Quality Entertainment
Hair and makeup: Alison Espinoza from Bombshell Hair Design
Flowers: Stoneblossom Floral Gallery