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This Couple Ended up Loving Their Downsized Wedding at Fairmont Lake Louise
We’re all for epic mountain lake views. This real wedding features not one, but two of Canada’s most iconic glacial lakes. Alberta bride Lia shared with us about her experience changing plans from a 200 person event in Calgary to an intimate wedding surrounded by soaring mountains, pristine glacial lakes, and only their closest friends and family. Nicole Field Photography captures this magical day in The Alberta Rockies, making this downsized wedding at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise one you won’t want to scroll past.
From the Couple:
What were your original wedding plans and how did they change?
We were originally going to get married in September at a golf course in Calgary with 200 people. When the pandemic first started, we never thought that things wouldn’t be back to normal by then! As we got to May, we realized that the chances of having 200 people were very slim, and that it was best to start looking at other options. We knew we could always try postponing, but we had already got so excited to get married that we didn’t want to wait! We decided to still get married, but to limit the attendees to our immediate family only. That way, in case things changed, we would be able to get married no matter what! We rescheduled to August 28, 2020 at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
What was the downsizing process like for you?
The process was first very hard, as it isn’t easy to come to terms with how you envisioned your wedding going changing so drastically. However, we realized quickly that the most important thing to us was to be married to one another, and to have our parents, siblings and grandparents see that happen. Once we made the decision, all of our vendors were amazing. They were all so accommodating in changing our date and location for us, and we felt so much more at ease!
Do you have any advice for couples currently navigating wedding planning during a pandemic?
For any couples going through the postponement and/or downsizing process, we are sorry that your plans are changing, we know it is hard. Every situation is so unique, and it is important to do what is best for you and your soon to be spouse! None of our family had to travel, so we knew that we didn’t have to postpone if we didn’t want to. If you are in similar shoes to us, downsizing might surprise you! We originally thought we wanted a big wedding, but there was something so special and so intimate about having our small one. You may end up feeling the same way! Plus, there is always time for a huge party in the future!
What was your favourite moment of the day?
My favourite moment was when my dad and I walked around the corner to walk down the aisle, I heard the most beautiful music (he had hired a string quartet to surprise us), and I saw all of our family smiling at us, and my husband waiting for me at the end of the aisle! It was so special and filled my heart to have everyone I love so much to be together.
What was something you learned from your unique wedding planning experience?
Something I learned was that the day goes by. So. Fast. It is so important to savour every moment, and to know that what really matters most is the love that the two of you share!
From the Photographer:
What was your favourite part of the day?
Moraine Lake was the icing on the cake! First off, we got to ride in the limo there. Secondly, it was Lia’s FIRST time SEEING Moraine Lake, which made it that much more special!! I loved that they got to experience a mountain adventure like that on their beautiful elopement day!
Do you have any advice for couples having to postpone, or having to downsize their wedding?
KEEP IN CONTACT WITH YOUR WEDDING VENDORS!! They WANT to help you make it the BEST DAY EVER. Don’t stress! Smile + embrace any changes because no matter what, you WILL have an incredible day + we are all rooting for you!!
Do you have anything to say about this year's wedding season?
This year has solidified my belief about the importance of what really matters. It’s not the STUFF you have at your wedding, it’s the moments you have and the people you share it with.
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