Your Wedding Day - Destination Alberta Canada

By Harmony Walton ALBERTA, CANADA A western province of Canada, Alberta is home to some of the most spectacular skies, natural scenery, superb skiing and adventurous outdoors activities in the world. With such a vast and breathtaking canvas on which to wed, it’s no wonder that betrothed couples are flocking to the north to say “I Do” along the Canadian Rockies. But beyond Alberta’s natural beauty, our neighbors have mastered the green grasp to preserving their environment, and so, their destination weddings are greener because of it. If you want majestic outdoor “I Do’s” with an earth-friendly experience, Alberta is home to your winter or summer wedding. WHERE TO STAY: THE FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE Thanks in-part to the Canadian property’s initial recycling programs and green initiatives, the Fairmont resorts are among the greenest on the globe. Today the Fairmont Lake Louiseis internationally recognized for its environmental efforts and offers up an array of luxury experiences with a greener twist. But one can hardly notice the good being done while indulging in the fresh and local fare or relaxing at Escape, the in-house AVEDA Concept Spa and Salon. Take a trip outside and tour the National Park through guided hikes, casual walks or canoe rides; and if you’re a brave bride-to-be, consider mountain biking or rafting on the open waters. No matter what your pleasure is here, it promises to be nothing less. _______________________________________________________ WHAT TO SEE: THE NORTHERN LIGHTS Weddings can cost more than a pretty penny, so it’s nice to know that one of the most incredible beauties your guests will lay eyes on (besides you of course), won’t cost you a thing. Be sure to spend some romantic time for two stargazing from several Northern Alberta towns. Take a tour from Fort McMurray, Grand Prairie, or other local spots and see what Mother Nature intended us to enjoy, all without causing an imprint on our earth. _______________________________________________________


HOW TO REHEARSE: Merge the two families together over fine food, wine, and culinary classes. The best way to break the ice is to get your guests interacting and what better way than to partake in a cooking class and later enjoy the fruits of your labor over a gourmet meal? COOKBOOK COOKS offers up fresh fare, fun classes, and an end of the evening feast perfect for your new family rehearsal dinner.
WHAT TO WED UNDER...A NATURAL HUPPAH: create a one-of-a-kind wedding canopy with fallen tree branches and gathered forest material. For a ceremony canvas even more spectacular, commission a hand painted cloth that depicts your wedding setting, under which to wed (you might have just made your first family heirloom in the process). www.end-design.com
	WHAT TO WEAR: AMY KUSCHEL’s butterfly gown; a trumpet silhouette with a versatile detachable skirt that transforms your gown to party dress. The French Chantilly lace bateau neckline oozes sophistication and the open back is just plain sexy. But better yet, Kuschel uses fabrics that are reused and recycled from patterns in her San Francisco design studio. Gorgeously green!
	WHERE TO VISIT…THE EMERALD LAKE LODGE: A historic property nestled in a wilderness spot in the Yoho National Park. For a honeymoon outside of town and away from you friends and family, check into this secluded lodge. Home to fireplace-clad cabins and a three green key rating – your stay will be relaxing and respectful of the planet. But be prepared to enjoy one another with little distractions as this mountain oasis has no television sets or internet access in the rooms and no mobile phone service in the park.
WHAT YOUR MAIDS MIGHT WEAR: Lela Rose Bridesmaids dresses - her newest endeavor inspired by the custom collection she designed for Jenna Bush’s recent wedding party. The gowns have an “ethereal quality” but with the structure and sophistication fit for either an indoor or outdoor affair. The cocktail length skirts and delicate buttons, pockets, pleats, and rosette embellishments create a look that molds old world romance with modern day charm. _____________________________________________ WHERE TO SHOP: At local farmers’ markets like the scene at the Curry Barracks in Calgary. Find organic and locally-grown produce, organic floral for your event, and one-of-a-kind crafts made from local artisans (think bridesmaid and parent gifts). Make a day out of shopping around town and support the local community at the same time. ____________________________________________________________________________________________
HOW TO GET AROUND…in ECOCAB: a greener taxi service that runs on fuel-efficient Toyota hybrids. Whether you’re off to town for a day of pre-wedding pampering or you want your wedding day getaway to go green, EcoCab is the eco-friendly way to drive in style. And if you happen to find yourself in Canmore, discover a transportation even more environmentally-friendly. Located at local hotels, cafes, and shops, you will find unlocked bikes begging to be borrowed and taken for a ride about town. Explore the city on this romantic ride but don’t forget to drop the bikes back off at the end of your outdoor day

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