Gabriella and Matthew first laid eyes on one another on Hinge. When they met in person, sparks flew, and over time their relationship grew.
When Matthew was ready to propose, he knew exactly what to do—ask Gabriella to be his wife in Romania on the sandy shores of the Black Sea. Shares Gabriella, “My parents grew up in Romania and we would go there every summer. My mother passed away a few years ago and Matt decided to do it somewhere where I could have a piece of my mom with me. My sisters, dad and family were there to capture the moment. It was beautiful. As the sun was setting and we were walking on the beach we passed a beautiful gazebo, and he got down on one knee and proposed.”
Gabriella carried her mom with her on her wedding day, too. She pinned a picture of her mom to her wedding bouquet and displayed a larger photo of her mom at the wedding. Plus, she and Matthew incorporated traditional Romanian dances for everyone to join at the reception.
More about their day (including how Gabriella found her Diana wedding dress) from our sweet bride below.
Tell us about your outfits! How did you choose your gown?
“I went to 6 other bridal shops before going to Lea-Ann Belter and nothing felt right. I didn’t like any of the dresses. They didn’t feel or fit right. I was looking at the website and I saw the Diana dress and I knew instantly that was the dress I wanted to wear. I called to book the appointment and sent my sisters the picture. I told them this was the dress I’ve been looking for. When I went and tried on the dress, I loved it from the first moment. I knew I found the dress of my dreams! It was exactly what I envisioned. Classic and timeless.
The bridesmaid dresses were from Park and Fifth, and in a gorgeous colour that looked beautiful on all the girls.”
wedding dress: Lea-Ann Belter Diana via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photographer: Samantha Ong Photography + Cinema | scroll down for full vendor list
Why did you decide to get married where you did?
“We wanted a venue with windows and outdoor space and decided to get married an Angus Glenn because Matt loves to golf—he golfs as much as he can! Also, we were also having the ceremony outside and wanted a beautiful view.”
Tell us about your day!
“The day was magical. Everything came together so beautifully. It rained in the morning, so I was a bit anxious but it’s good luck, right!? Right before the ceremony, the rain cleared away and it was so sunny!! It was perfect for pictures. Matt and I wrote our own vows, and so our ceremony was so personal and special. The moment I walked down the aisle, I was so nervous and anxious with everyone staring at me but once I saw Matt, I was ok! The dress made everything. It felt perfect and I loved the way it felt on me. I felt like a beautiful princess, and it fit perfectly. I got so many compliments, and it really photographed well and fit into the beauty of the day.
Our first dance was perfect, our favourite country song, “Steady Heart,” by Kameron Marlow. The food was great, and the photos with my bridesmaids and groomsmen were fun!! We are such a great group of friends and I’m happy that was captured. Having my sister by my side was amazing. It was the perfect day, and every moment was special.“
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
“The most important part of the day was being with Matt. From the first look to the ceremony, I was so happy to be marrying him. I looked forward to pictures to make sure it captured the moment of our love.“
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
“We went to Maui and Kona for our Honeymoon. It was so beautiful. Paradise. The beaches and water were stunning. We stayed at the Four Seasons in Kona and the resort was so beautiful. The room, the food, the services. It was a beautiful way to spend our first days together married. We relaxed and enjoyed each other’s company.”
Any tips for couples getting married?
“Don’t sweat the small stuff… it will all come together in the end!! Cherish each moment as the day goes by so quickly. Enjoy every moment.“
Gabriella + Matthew’s Angus Glen Golf Club Wedding Vendors
wedding dress: Lea-Ann Belter Diana via the flagship Toronto bridal boutique | photographer: Samantha Ong Photography + Cinema | ceremony + reception venue: Angus Glen Golf Club | florals: AD Floral Studio | decor: Yorkville Special Events | bride’s shoes: Manolo Blahnik | makeup: Beauty Haus Collective | hair: Farrah Abel | bridesmaid dresses: Park & Fifth Co | groom + groomsmen Attire: Ed’s Fine Imports | wedding cake: Bakers Crush | officiant: Enduring Promises Inc. | entertainment: Maximum DJ | string quartet: Rosedale Chamber Ensemble
