There’s something about a Thursday wedding at Le Belvédère in Wakefield that already feels a little more intentional for Gabriel and Sara, and wrapped in soft September rain and fog, it felt like the kind of day that was always meant to unfold this way.
From the moment I arrived at Le Belvédère, the mountains were wrapped in mist, the kind that softens everything and makes the entire space feel quiet and intimate. It’s usually known for its sweeping views, but that day, the fog gave it a completely different kind of beauty… more romantic, more cinematic and honestly, perfect for Gabe and Sara.
Their story started years before this day, back in grade 12. Two different high schools, two different cities; Gabe in Kingston and Sara in Ottawa, but somehow, it worked. Not just in a casual way either… Gabe would drive two hours just to take Sara out on a date, then turn around and drive two hours back the same night. That kind of effort says everything you need to know.
They grew up together in so many ways… from prom and graduation to long-distance weekends during their first year of post-secondary, to finally being in the same city at Carleton University and Algonquin College. By Sara’s third year, they moved into a small apartment together and by 2019, they had both graduated and stepped into a whole new chapter of life.
Like a lot of couples, the pandemic shifted things for them, but in a way that brought them closer. They upgraded to a townhouse, adopted a cat (which, let’s be honest, is a major relationship milestone), and then in 2022, they had the chance to buy Sara’s grandparents’ home. Since then, it’s been filled with renovations, projects and building something that truly feels like theirs. Gabe being “super duper handy” definitely came in clutch.
Then came the proposal, because of course there’s a full-circle moment here. While spending a week at Sara’s family cottage, they took a drive up to Mont-Tremblant for a hike. Halfway up the mountain, Gabe asked Sara to marry him… which ended up being perfect timing, because by the time they reached the top, it was pouring rain. Honestly, it feels like foreshadowing for their wedding day in the best way.
Fast forward to this September Thursday, and the rain made its return, but instead of taking away from the day, it added to it. There was no pressure for perfect skies or golden sunsets. Everything slowed down. Guests leaned in closer, laughter felt louder and every moment carried a little more weight.
Sara was calm and radiant, the kind of presence that fills a room without trying. Gabe had this steady, grounded energy, like he’s always been exactly where he’s supposed to be when it comes to her. Watching them together, it’s clear their relationship was built over time, through effort, distance, change and growth… not just one big moment.
Their ceremony, surrounded by fog, felt almost surreal. The mountains faded into the background, leaving just the two of them and the people who mattered most. It was quiet in a way that made you feel everything more deeply.
And that’s what I’ll remember most about their day.
Not the rain, not the fog, but the way those things created space for something softer, more honest. The kind of wedding that doesn’t feel like a production, but like a reflection of two people who have already built a life together… and are just continuing it, now with rings on their hands.
Gabe and Sara, your day was a reminder that things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, the unexpected is what makes it all feel a little more real.
If you, or someone you know is looking for their perfect photographer, please feel free to reach out. Le Belvédère is also one of my preferred venues, which receives a 10% discount if your wedding is taking place there!
CREATIVE TEAM
Venue: Le Belvédère
Videography: Meven Studios
Bridal Boutique: Sinders Bridal House
Wedding Dress Designer: Essence of Australia
Bridal Shoes: Dolce Vita
Grooms Attire: Indochino
Jewelry: Olive & Piper, Brilliant Earth, Goldform
Bridesmaid Dresses: Boutique 1861
Florist: Plenty of Pretty
DJ: Quality Entertainment
Photo Booth: Quality Entertainment
Hair: Beauty Manifestor
Makeup: One Fine Beauty
Baked Goods: Valentina’s Sweet Treats
Photography: Stacy Kenopic Photography
Thursday Wedding at Le Belvédère in Wakefield
