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An Elegant, Rustic Wedding in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Updated May 27, 2024

| By Vanessa Ortynsky

An Elegant, Rustic Wedding in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

After Joe proposed to Jen at a surprise dinner at his condo while living in Calgary, the couple set out to plan an elegant celebration in one of Ontario's most gorgeous locations, Niagara-on-the-Lake. Jen and Joe chose the stunning Hillebrand Winery for their elegant, rustic wedding reception.

The couple, who have known each other since high school, added various personal, homemade touches to their celebration. "Our wedding favours added a special and meaningful touch to the day. We made our dill pickles using my dad’s freshly-harvested cucumbers," recalls Jen. Jen also made her own cake and cupcakes, which were among the celebration's highlights. A challenging, but important decision for the couple was choosing their wedding song. "I am a huge Keith Urban fan and knew I wanted one of his songs to be our song." After much deliberation, she decided on "All For You" as it perfectly suited the day and their relationship.

A particularly special moment for Jen was seeing Joe's comforting smile as she made her way down the aisle.

Jen and Joe Aitken, October 1, 2011, Niagara, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Stec Photography.

Vendors
Ceremony location: Our Lady of the Scapular Roman Catholic Church Reception location: Hillebrand Winery Bridal gown: Pronovias from Nicholas & Elizabeth Bridal
Bridal party attire: Local seamstress, Katina Martin, custom-made the dresses. Groom’s tux: Calvin Klein from Moores Cake: Cupcakes and cake made by bride Caterer: Hillebrand Winery
Favours: Eve Chocolatier and homemade pickles by Kelly VanRoboys-Deline and Jen Aitken. Wedding planners: Kelly VanRoboys-Deline (519-809-0442) Hair: Lisa Udvari at Prada's Hair Salon (519-351-8744) Makeup: Krystle VanRoboys (519-358-3154) Flowers: Kelly VanRoboys-Deline (519-809-0442) and Trisha at The Purple Pansy Stationery: The Paper Pickle Co.