When I saw the first image of this engagement shoot yesterday, I nearly dropped out of my chair. I was just hired by this couple to help plan their wedding, and I had no idea they were having their engagement session already!

Just over a month ago, this couple consulted with me for a few key issues about their wedding – one of which was for vendor referrals. They really wanted to find the right photographer, and sometimes that can be a big challenge for couples. I made a ton of inquiries for them, and ultimately found Ashley Notley in Ottawa, whose style really impressed me right off the bat. Turns out it was a perfect fit – Ashley and Sylvie actually worked together way back when!

Having a relationship with your photographer makes all the difference in the world. It tones down the jitters that most couples have stepping in front of the camera, more often than not, for the first time in their lives. You stop worrying about embarrassing yourselves in front of the photographer, and start enjoying the process so much more.

Since re-introducing Ashley to this wonderful bride, Sylvie and Matt have hired her as their wedding photographer and they had this beautiful engagement session at the Ottawa Arboretum. They’ve also hired me to help plan and design their wedding, which I couldn’t be more excited for! I’m really pleased that everything is coming together so nicely, and it’s great to give someone the perfect referral. Looking forward to next September!!

More from Ashley:

Sylvie and I go way back. We used to lifeguard together back in the day and teach little kiddies how to swim. I was so excited when she contacted me about photographing her wedding! It’s always so much fun when you already know the couple to some extent so you can skip the “about this weather…” small talk and move on to the real stuff!

Sylvie was literally the girl next door. Matt and his family moved in next to Sylvie’s home a few years back. Sylvie recalls that her mom mentioned the cute boy next door multiple times, but it wasn’t until Sylvie finally laid eyes on him 6 months later that she knew there was something special about him. I adore this pair and cannot wait for their wedding next fall at the Watson’s Mill! These are some of my faves from our session together at the Arboretum!