A Cottage-Style Quebec Wedding in Early Fall

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Location: St-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec, Canada
Setting: Manor
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 2 years
Number of guests: 135
Wedding theme/style: Minimalistic, soft, outdoor.

In the picturesque setting of St-Agathe-des-Monts, Quebec, James and Sophie celebrated their love in a remarkable wedding, combining the charm of a cozy cottage with the splendor of a lakefront venue. They met as teenagers, introduced by James’ sister, Alex, Sophie’s lifelong friend. Their friendship, dotted with fleeting moments of affection, evolved into a deep love during their university years. This seamless transition from friends to partners, filled with laughter and shared priorities, set the foundation for their future together.

Julia Garcia-Prat’s photographs tell a story of elegance and joy, highlighting the intimate and heartfelt moments that defined James and Sophie’s wedding. From the emotional first looks to the lively dance floor scenes, Julia’s work encapsulated the beauty of the event, ensuring every fleeting moment was immortalized.

Sophie’s wedding dress is a stunning blend of bohemian elegance and classic style. Designed by Stella York, the gown features a delicate sweetheart neckline adorned with intricate floral lace that cascades down a softly flowing tulle skirt. The bodice is beautifully fitted, enhancing the romantic silhouette, while the sheer cathedral-length veil adds a touch of traditional bridal grace. Her look was completed with glowy, bronzed makeup and bouncy curls, adding a touch of glamour. The overall effect is both ethereal and modern, perfectly complementing the natural beauty of their woodland wedding setting.

James and Sophie shared a serene and intimate first look on a secluded pathway by the manor. Soon after, their joy multiplied as the wedding party joined them, creating a lively and memorable photoshoot by Julia Garcia-Prat.

The ceremony was both brief and deeply meaningful, set against the backdrop of Manoir Davis’ stunning natural scenery. The decor was minimalistic, with white and gold tones that complemented the outdoor setting, allowing the natural beauty of the Laurentians to shine through.

The cocktail hour embraced the wedding’s theme of a “fancy cottage weekend,” with an outdoor setting that invited guests to mingle and enjoy the serene lake views. The atmosphere was light and intimate, encouraging guests to relax and celebrate the newlyweds.

While their guests enjoyed cocktails, James and Sophie took a serene stroll through the picturesque grounds of manor, seizing the moment to capture their first photos as a married couple. Accompanied by their photographer, they created beautiful, lasting memories set against the lush backdrop of early fall. Afterward, they rejoined their family and friends, ready to celebrate at the lively reception awaiting them.

The reception unfolded under a tent, strung with lights that cast a warm glow over the evening festivities. Tables were decorated with silk flower arrangements from E.Rose Arrangements, enhancing the venue’s elegance. The dinner featured a variety of Italian dishes, served from stations that included a cheese wheel pasta and fresh pizza, ensuring guests enjoyed a gourmet experience.

As the evening progressed, Sophie slipped into her second dress, a stunning “cupcake” style mini by Rosie Etienne, perfect for dancing. The night was filled with music tailored by the groom’s brother, featuring tracks from a pre-selected Spotify playlist that kept the dance floor alive until the early hours.

The day concluded with the cutting of a vintage-style cake, handcrafted by the bride, echoing the floral theme of the day. The joyous atmosphere was palpable, with every detail reflecting Sophie and James’ personalities and their meticulous planning.

Advice from the couple:

• Start by creating a “big 5” list of priorities for your wedding. This list will guide where you invest your budget and ensure your day reflects what’s most important to both of you. For James and me, ensuring our guests had a great time was essential, leading us to plan a lively party atmosphere with well-timed speeches and continuous refreshments.

• Additionally, being selective with your wedding vendors is crucial. My minimal stress on our wedding day was thanks to trusting my vendors who fully grasped our vision. Remember, it’s important to enjoy your day as a guest, not just host, which requires confidence in your vendors to handle everything smoothly.