There’s something instantly grounding about chatting with Fiona Calwell of Fiona Lau Events — she brings the kind of calm energy that makes you believe wedding planning can actually be enjoyed, not just survived. Based in Ottawa with Toronto roots, Fiona, an Ottawa wedding planner, has a gift for creating weddings that feel intimate, intentional, and deeply personal. Her approach blends meaningful traditions with a modern sensibility, always led by her couples’ unique stories, (See how that philosophy comes to life in this intimate Ottawa wedding I photographed at Arlo Restaurant).
Whether it’s weaving in a shared love of travel or including your dog as the ring bearer, her focus is on crafting a day that feels like you.
Can you introduce yourself and your planning style?
Hi! I’m Fiona Calwell, the founder and lead planner at Fiona Lau Events. My style is all about creating weddings that feel intimate, personal, and genuinely you. I love blending meaningful traditions with a modern approach, and I’m big on keeping the process collaborative, organized, and stress-free (yes, it’s possible!). I also love weaving in unique elements – like your favourite movies, music, travel spots, or inside jokes – so your wedding truly reflects your story in the most thoughtful way.
You recently made the move from Toronto to Ottawa—how’s that transition been, both personally and professionally?
It’s been such a refreshing change! Personally, I’m loving the slower pace and all the charm that Ottawa has to offer. Professionally, it’s been amazing to connect with a whole new vendor community and discover so many beautiful venues. I still work in Toronto sometimes, but Ottawa has really started to feel like home in the last few years.
Who’s your dream couple to work with?
My dream couple is down-to-earth, open to ideas, and values experiences over perfection. If you’re excited about creating a day that feels meaningful and reflects your relationship—whether that’s an intimate backyard celebration or a mountain top elopement – I’m all in.
Top 2–3 tips for couples just starting to plan?
- Start with your priorities! What really matters to you? That’ll help guide every decision from here.
- Build a budget early. It’s not the most glamorous part, but it’s a game-changer.
- Hire a planner (hi 👋) – I promise we do more than just timelines. We keep things moving, handle the tricky stuff, and help you actually enjoy this process.
What’s something couples often overlook during the process?
How important the flow of the day is! A thoughtful timeline can really shape the vibe – from relaxed morning prep to a dance floor that actually gets used.
What helps make a wedding day feel calm and stress-free (especially for the couple)?
Letting go of the tiny details and being present in the moment. I always say—if you’ve hired a team you trust, you shouldn’t have to worry about anything except soaking it all in. That’s what I’m here for!
What makes a wedding feel truly personal to you?
When I see little touches that tell your story – like handwritten vows, a ceremony reading from your favourite book, little figurines of characters from your favourite video games, growing your own wildflowers (do this only if you have a green thumb AND you’re prepared to go to plan B and hire a florist), or even your dog as the ring bearer – it instantly makes the day feel more “you.”
Fav local venues or hidden gem spots in Ottawa?
I’m a bit biased because I’m one of the wedding coordinators for the Knox Weddings and Events in Merrickville, so I think it’s stellar! I’m also loving places like Mallity Estates on the east end, which was reno’d in the last couple years to be a very lovely modern farmhouse style, and The Grand Hotel in Carleton Place where the food and service is outstanding! If you’re looking for huge windows, I’d recommend Venue Twenty Two at the Westin Hotel.
Ottawa has such a mix of cozy countryside spots and elegant downtown venues. There are some gems that fly under the radar but totally shine in the right hands (Parlour Restaurant is getting more popular now and I could not say enough positive things about it. Also, did you know you can get married at Little Victories Coffee?).
Any vendors you love collaborating with? (Let’s share the love!)
Yes! I’m so lucky to work with talented, kind, and creative vendors. I love shouting them out whenever I can – photographers, florists, hair and makeup teams – everyone brings something special. You can find some of them featured on the Fiona Lau Events blog, but as we only feature 1 a month, there’s absolutely more vendors I love to work with that we will continue to showcase in the future.
Sarah and I have yet to work together, but I’m waiting patiently for the right couple to bring us together. ❤️
Any tips from your side that help the day flow well for photography?
Leave buffer time! Things always take longer than you expect, and you want to be able to breathe and enjoy the moment – not rush through it. Also, good lighting makes all the difference – so let’s plan with that in mind (think getting ready rooms with good windows). We always make sure to work together with your photographer to make it smooth!
One myth about wedding planning you’d love to bust?
That it’s only for “big weddings” or people with huge budgets. Not true! Planners can be a lifesaver for smaller, more intimate weddings too—we’re here to make your life easier, no matter the size or style.
My take on this
Fiona’s philosophy is simple but powerful: your wedding should feel like the two of you — nothing forced, nothing copied, just real connection wrapped in beauty. After hearing her talk about the flow of a day, the balance between calm and celebration, and her love for those small, story-driven details, it’s easy to see why couples trust her completely. If you’re dreaming of a day that feels personal, relaxed, and beautifully intentional, Fiona Lau Events is exactly where you want to start.
highlight picture by Holly McMurter Photographs.
