The finish line | Real Wedding of Sheena & Richard

Featured in our recent Fall/Winter issue of Today’s Bride magazine, available on newsstands now, the following real wedding took place at the majestic National Arts Centre in Ottawa and was meticulously planned and designed by Wedecor. This is a breathtaking example of a modern wedding with whimsical florals, made all the more dramatic thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows featuring gorgeous cityscape views.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your own modern wedding, you’ll find plenty here.

The finish line…

Richard, a sprinter on Canada’s Olympic team in 2004 and 2008, met his gorgeous bride, Sheena, when they attended the same church in Toronto as kids. And despite his family moving away to Ottawa, they got their happy ending.

Aisle antics: “Richard danced down the aisle and had our guests laughing,” says Sheena. “He is always the life of the party!”

First date: After Richard’s family moved away, he and Sheena bumped into each other one day. “Long story short – I knew he had a little crush on me. We exchanged numbers, and from there, the rest was history,” says Sheena. “Our first date, we watched a play at the National Arts Centre after I decided to drive up to Ottawa for one night. Looking back, I can’t believe I did the drive! Our date was awkward at first, but it ended off amazing! Never did we think we’d be dating. Your future husband or wife could literally be right in front of you amongst your closest circle of friends!”

COVID changes: The couple’s original 2020 date with 150 guests was postponed due to the pandemic, but they wanted to keep the original date. Sheena says, “We quickly planned an intimate ceremony with our immediate family in our new home. Richard’s mom, who is a minister, officiated our wedding while our loved ones watched online.”

It’s who you know: When it comes to wedding advice, Sheena says, “We loved the fact that every single person at our wedding held a special place in our lives. Be selective with your guest list; you will be glad you did!”