Nestled in the stunning Church of St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Hamilton Ontario, Olena and Orest exchanged vows, marking the start of their beautiful journey together. Their celebration continued at the exquisite St. Volodymyr Cultural Centre in Oakville, where the air buzzed with joy and love.
The floral magic by Designs By Law and the intricate décor by With All My Heart Wedding Decor added an ethereal touch to an already picturesque setting. Olena, adorned in a breathtaking MillaNova gown, stepped into her Badgely Mischka shoes, epitomizing elegance and grace.
Best Face Forward worked their magic, ensuring Olena’s radiance matched the joy in her heart. The day was further elevated by the mesmerizing performances of Ukrainian Banned Hudi a Mocni and the Ukrainian Dance Group: Ukraina Ukrainian School of Arts, their acrobatics weaving an extra layer of magic into the celebration.
The vibrant spirit of Ukrainian culture flowed seamlessly through the ceremony and reception.
Orest had some fantastic reflections about their day:
“My favourite part? The groomsmen procession down the street, decked out in Ukrainian Cossack costumes, amidst the laughter and music, as we made our way to meet the bride, bridesmaids, and her family. The bartering of the bride was full of improvisations and laughter, and I couldn’t have asked for a more entertaining group of people to do it with.”
“As per Ukrainian tradition, I got a sneak peek of Olena during the bartering. Seeing her in that moment, stepping out of the house like a fairytale princess, was breathtaking. I wanted to whisk her away to our castle right then and there.”
“And the unexpected moment? Dancing late into the night, I turned around to find a veiled gentleman asking me to dance. I did a double-take and realized it was Bassem. Our brief, intimate dance is something I’ll always remember fondly.”
Olena also shared her cherished moments:
“The entire day was my favourite! The overwhelming love and joy from our families and friends made it impossible not to smile.”
“Our first dance was unforgettable. Despite all eyes being on us, I was completely captivated by Orest. His incredible dancing made it feel like a fairytale moment.”
“And I never expected Orest and the groomsmen to parade down my street in costumes, accompanied by a live band. Their two-week supply of kovbasa and prepared songs for the ‘bartering’ was a delightful surprise, and they put up quite a fun fight against my bridesmaids!”
Olena and Orest’s day was an immersive cultural experience, each moment woven with love, tradition, and the harmony of two families coming together. Congratulations to this beautiful couple, embarking on a new chapter hand in hand.