A Caribbean-Inspired Summer Wedding in Ottawa

For Ann-Lori and Ryan, a Caribbean-inspired wedding was always in the cards. "Growing up, our house was surrounded by plants and flowers that my mother cared for religiously," Ann-Lori explains. "So I wanted a wedding that reminded me of a tropical garden. One of my favourite flowers are the fuschia bougainvilleas, because they're so vibrant. From the get-go, I knew that I wanted to incorporate the bright pinks and a lot of greenery into the design."

Ryan's favourite moment was watching Ann-Lori walk down the aisle. "Probably a full minute or more before Ann-Lori showed her face or even started walking down the aisle, my ave quivered and the tears started rolling," Ryan recalls. "It was no surprise—I told her I would be a wreck as soon as she walked in."

Ann-Lori's vision for beautiful vibrant flowers and lush tropical florals was fulfilled with the help of The Design Co. "The blue chinoiserie plates were a nice detail for our reception as well," the bride says. "My grandmother, mother and myself have a particular penchant for blue dishes—I was very happy that Stacey of The Design Co. was able to find those."

The couple's first dance was only rehearsed once—for 30 minutes, two days before the wedding. "Ryan likes to dance and we hardly get the chance to do so," Ann-Lori shares. "When the time came to dance together during the reception, it was so organic and fun. We danced to two songs—the first a slow dance, and then some Haitian kompa. Yes, my husband did step on my dress a few times. I'm not sure anyone noticed, but to me it was hilarious!"

Ann-Lori Durandis and Ryan Marshall,, August 19, 2018, Ottawa, Ontario.

Photography courtesy of Ali and Batoul Photography.

Vendors Venue: All Saints Event Space
Bridal gown: Hayley Paige
Wedding planner & flowers: The Design Co.
Groom's tux and groomsmen's attire: Tip Top Tailors
Bridesmaid gowns: White Runway
Cake & dessert table: Pretty Sweet Bakeshop
Stationery: Citrus Press
Hair: Eminence Coiffure
Makeup: Anthonia Makeup
Rentals: Joe's Prop House and Prior Engagements
Plateware: Plate Occasions
Linens: Groovy Linen