Banff And Canmore Wedding Planner

Designer of Canadian Rocky Mountain Weddings

You are here: Home / Archives for Banff winter wedding

Lake Louise Winter Wedding Feature

By

by Sharon Auld

One of the Lake Louise winter weddings we worked on is being featured on the Canadian blog Poppytalk! So thrilled as the couple Simon and Amanda are amazing folks who came all the way from Australia to experience snow and the Rockies for the first time! They were such a fun couple to work with!

The beautiful photos featured on Poppytalk are from Orange Girl Photographs. 

Fairmont-Chateua-Lake-louise-winter-wedding

Amanda + Simon’s Lake Louise Winter Wedding on the Poppytalk Blog!

For information on our planning and design services contact us at hello@naturallychic.ca or 1.888.679.9056. Visit our website at www.naturallychic.ca.

Happy Planning! 

 

Pink + White Winter Wedding Inspiration

By

by Sharon Auld

We are currently enjoying a wonderful winter wedding at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. It is absolutely gorgeous here – a verifiable winter wonderland and our couple is an amazing Australian couple who are experiencing snow for the first time! I love seeing their excitement and “seeing” the mountains and snow through their eyes! They even had a beautiful, afternoon sleigh ride! With another winter wedding next week, I am literally  snow deep into winter weddings.

I love soft pinks, white and touches of silver for a winter wedding. It’s so romantic, feminine and perfect for a holiday wedding. Think white lights, lots of candles and whimsical touches like snowmen and gingerbread houses!

Here in the mountains, we almost always have snow on Valentine’s Day. This  color palette would also be perfectly suited to a beautiful Valentine’s wedding too.

Pink winter wedding inspiration

Photo Credits:

Photo 1: Just Call Me Grace Tumbler via Pinterest;  Photos 2: from Flickr.com via Pinterest; Photo 3, AGirlsRighttoDream. Tumbler.com, via Pinterest; Photos 4, Photo 5, Photo 6, Photo 7, Phot0 8 via huffpost weddings via pinterest; Photo 9 via Photographer-Stylist Paulina Arcklin; Photo 10 West Elm via Pinterest.

Give us call if you would like to talk about your upcoming winter wedding in the Canadian Rockies at 1.888.679.9056 or email us at hello@naturallychic.ca. 

Happy Planning and Happy Holidays everyone! Congratulations to all who are newly engaged as well!

Red and White Rustic Winter Wedding Inspiration

By

By Sharon Auld

Planning a rustic winter wedding in the mountains or at a ski lodge? Consider a color palette of red and white (perfect for weddings during the holiday season)! The color red “pops” so much against the pristine white snow and almost always works in rustic venues with warm, natural wood tones.

In the Rocky Mountains a little rustic is always in good taste!

Hope you enjoy today’s inspiration!

Banff wedding planner Naturally Chic Rustic Winter Wedding Inpspiraton | www.naturallychic.ca

Naturally Chic’s Rustic Winter Wedding Inspiration

{Photo Credits: Top Row – Pinterest, Grey Likes Weddings, Style Me Pretty, DigsDigs; Middle Row – Roots, Grey Likes Weddings, by Naturally Chic with photo from Orange Girl Photographs, by Naturally Chic with photo from Orange Girl Photographs; Bottom Row – Pinterest, BHLDN, Pinterest)

For assistance designing and planning your winter wedding in the Canadian Rocky Mountains or Banff area, contact Naturally Chic or our sister site Canadian Mountain Chic.

Happy Planning!

 

 

Rustic Winter Wedding Inspiration

By

by Sharon Auld

With the early arrival of snow in the Rocky Mountains and winter just around the corner, I thought I would put together a little rustic winter inspiration for couples planning a winter wedding in the Rockies!

Lately, I’ve been immersed in design for several upcoming winter weddings. Personally, I just can’t get enough winter weddings! There’s just something so warm, cozy and beautiful about a winter wedding in the Canadian Rockies! I could plan and design winter weddings all winter long!

Rustic winter wedding inspiration from Naturally Chic | www.naturallychic.ca

Naturally Chic Rustic Winter Wedding Glam

Photo Credits: Row 1 – Orange Girl Photographs, Naturally Chic, photo by Orange Girl Photographs, Naturally Chic, photo by Orange Girl Photographs;

Row 2 – Naturally Chic, photo by Orange Girl Photographs, Pinterest, Naturally Chic, photo by Orange Girl Photographs;

Row 3 – Pinterest, Ruffled Blog via Pinterest;

Row 4 – Trendy Bride, Pinterest, Pinterest.

For more information on designing and planning a winter wedding in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, contact Naturally Chic at 1.888.679.9056 or email us at hello@naturallychic.ca.

Happy Planning!

 

 

Winter Wedding Decor

By

by Sharon Auld

With the New Year right around the corner, I wanted to do a post about incorporating holiday decor into your winter wedding. Most mountain venues in Banff, Canmore and area have holiday decor set up at least until New Year’s Day. In our post on 5 Winter Wedding Tips, we talked about taking advantage of the festive decor already in place at your venue as a great way to save on your wedding decor budget. You can always add your own personal touches on the guest tables and other focal points! If you absolutely love the holidays then a holiday themed wedding might be just your style!

Personally, I love incorporating wreaths, evergreen boughs and pinecones into holiday themed weddings. They’ll never look out of place in a rustic mountain venue and really, by changing up the ribbon or bow to match your wedding colors, they can work in almost any season!

Wild Ridge Design Wreath

Evergreen boughs, white twinkle lights and candles look great on a mantle!

Evergreen boughs and LED candles via Restoration Hardware

Twinkle lights and branches

If you are wanting more of a holiday influence in your wedding, consider using holiday ornaments and even Christmas trees in your decor! You could hang vintage ornaments with each guests’ name and table number from branches for a festive “escort card” arrangement. Or place a vintage ornament or carefully wrapped package at each guest’s place setting for a memorable favor!

Vintage holiday ornaments for wedding decor

holiday ornaments incorporated into wedding decor

Holiday ornaments on your wedding buffet table

festive red and gold pomegrantes as wedding decor via The Wedding Chicks

Incorporate as little or as much holiday decor into your wedding! There’s no rules; have fun!

Burberry winter shoot via Wedding Obsession

holiday decor via Williams Sonoma

Holiday decor at Buffalo Mountain Lodge photo by Naturally Chic

For more winter wedding inspirations check out: Rustic Winter Wedding Wonderland and Tired of Winter? Winter Wedding Inspirations to Change Your Mind or In Love With Rustic Winter Weddings

Happy Holidays and Happy Planning!

For more information on our wedding planning and design services contact us at 1.888.679.0956 or info@naturallychic.ca or via website at http://www.naturallychic.ca.

Our Best Winter Wedding Planning Tips

By

It’s no surprise that here at Naturally Chic we love winter weddings in the Canadian Rockies! The magic of a winter wedding in the mountains is an unparalled experience not only for the couple, but also for the wedding guests!!

winter-wedding

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort via the Vagabond Lodge

We’ve written before that although incredibly beautiful, planning a winter destination wedding in the Canadian Rockies takes special planning considerations. We’ve compiled 10 of our favorite posts from on winter wedding planning tips for you:

We hope these posts will be useful in planning your winter wedding in the Canadian Rockies! If you are wanting more ideas and inspirations check out our Winter Weddings Category as well.

You may also enjoy this post in the Huffington Post / HuffPost Weddings on Winter Wedding Planning Tips from the Experts. While many of the tips are similar to ones we’ve already mentioned, I especially like the tip to purchase wedding insurance.

Not to deter you from planning a wedding in the winter, but we often recommend our couples get wedding insurance. If there’s a blizzard on the day of your wedding, you may be very happy you purchased insurance!

Number One Tip for winter weddings is to always have a back up plan!!!

Best of luck and Happy Planning!

For more information on our wedding planning and design services contact us at 1.403.679.1409 or hello@naturallychic.ca or visit the Naturally Chic site.


Bundle Up You’re in the Rockies…What to Where to a Winter Wedding Part 3

By

by Sharon Auld

One of the best things about being invited to a winter wedding in the Canadian Rockies is the opportunity to enjoy an exciting array of winter activities; skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, even a winter sleigh ride in a snow-laden landscape!

So, you’ve received your invite…now, what to pack? Well, if you’re used to winter dressing you know just what to bring…down jacket, good boots, mitts, scarf and toque. If  you’ve never experienced a Canadian winter, this can be daunting…what’s a toque right?

The key to dressing for activities in the Rockies is staying warm! It’s great to be fashionable, but chic city fashion just won’t work in the mountains! Mountain chic means warm and functional!

Warmth starts with a great jacket and you will never go wrong with a down-filled jacket or vest!

Winter dressing in the Canadian Rockies

A great wool jacket works perfectly for shopping or walking around the lodge. Warm materials like corduroy, denim and of course flannel are good choices!

Faux fur trapper hats have a great Canadian flair!

Sorel winter boots

Ugg boots via Victoria’s Secret

You may also want to consider bringing along a great pair of slippers for the lodge as well as some hand-warmers for your pockets!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Down Slippers

Stay warm and Enjoy the Mountains at their Snowy Best via Roots.com

For more on what to wear to a winter wedding read Part One: Bundle up We’re Expecting Snow, and Part Two: Bundle Up It’s Cold Outside!

Happy Planning!

For more information on our wedding planning and design services contact us at 1.888.679.0956 or info@naturallychic.ca or via website at http://www.naturallychic.ca.

PS a toque is the Canadian name for a knitted cap!

Bundle Up It’s Cold Outside…What to Wear to a Winter Wedding Part Two

By

by Sharon Auld

With temperature’s dropping, winter wedding brides are likely giving thought as to how they’re going to stay warm on their big day. In our last post, we talked about what to wear to a winter wedding in the mountains as a guest. Today we’re discussing options for  brides (and their maids) for staying warm during the ceremony and during the spectacular outdoor photo session you’ve no doubt planned with your photographer. Yes, those amazing wedding party photos out in the most, picturesque, snow-laden wonderland…the Rocky Mountains!

There are so many stylish choices out there; there’s no reason a bride has to be cold! There’ll be plenty of opportunities to show off your dress during the reception, so why not show a slightly different look for your outdoor photos? And brides, you do want to consider your bridesmaids’ warmth too! You can bet that your girls are more likely to be troopers in what could be pretty cool temperatures, if they’re rockin’ a stylish shawl or cape of their own (Not that the guys don’t get cold too, but at least they have pants and a jacket.)!

Dress choice can greatly impact your warmth come wedding day.  For dresses, in general, heavier weight fabrics, longer lengths and longer sleeve lengths are seasonally appropriate. There are many elegant options for floor length dresses for your girls as well. Once you’ve chosen the dresses, don’t forget to consider the extremities…arms, legs and toes!

Of course, everyone has different tastes; not everyone wants a white fur stole. Why not a faux fur shawl in a different color, or a knitted shawl for a more casual wedding?

Winter Bride photo courtesy of HIS.CO Photography

Bridal shawl via BHLDN

This elegant white down-filled vest is another beautiful option for colder climates.

Down-filled wedding shawl via BHLDN

If you don’t want to purchase a special shawl that you may never wear again, a stylish wool coat can work beautifully (A Classic menswear, wool coat will look great on your guy too!).

Winter wedding coat via Mod Cloth

The contrast of snow and a red coat will always look amazing in photos!

Red coat for winter bride via Mod Cloth

Don’t leave it up to just a shawl to keep you warm! Consider your footwear if you will be out in the snow for any length of time…cold feet can make for a very unhappy bride. Consider wearing stylish tights and warm boots under your dress (you can always change into a hot pair of heels before your reception). Uggs in white or colors to match your wedding are always a popular choice! And don’t forget other stylish winter accessories as well such as a great pair of gloves, arm warmers or clutch.

 

Wedding gloves from BHLDN

cable knit clutch for winter wedding from BHLDN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

White furry winter women's vegan friendly boots via Amazon

I love the look of matching capes for bridesmaids (above), but cashmere sweaters would look cute too!

Winter wedding capes for your bridesmaids via One Fine Day Events

A warmly dressed couple = wedding couple!

Dressing for a Winter Wedding photo courtesy of HIS.CO Photography

Stay tuned for our next post on dressing (and packing) for your winter wedding in the mountains!

Happy Planning!

For more information on our wedding planning and design services contact us at 1.888.679.0956 or info@naturallychic.ca or via website at http://www.naturallychic.ca.

 

Bundle Up We’re Expecting Snow…What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

By

By Sharon Auld

Ahhh, the dilemma of what to wear (and pack!) for a winter wedding in the mountains. Most likely, when you think of a winter wedding in the mountains, you’re thinking snow-capped peaks and bundled up guests. Well, the truth is, here in the Rocky Mountains, that’s likely what you’ll get (and we couldn’t be happier!).

In the mountains, its all about function – staying warm and dry, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style! The mountain chic culture dictates, first and foremost, practicality. However, an indoor ceremony at the Fairmont Banff Springs, is very different than an outdoor wedding on a ski hill! Step #1, find out exactly what kind of winter wedding; indoors or out, formal or casual? Sometimes though, even the couple won’t have a clear vision of what they expect for their guests! Weather and location are often a deciding factor in what to wear.

If the ceremony is outside, whether at a ski hill or outside the venue. Dress appropriately. In general, winter weddings are a little more relaxed especially if there’s an outdoor ceremony. No couple choosing an outdoor ceremony wants their guests to sit shivering while they say their vows and perhaps they’ve even taken steps to ensure their guests’ comfort (think outdoor heaters and warm throws). Regardless, you will likely be outside in the elements for at least fifteen minutes and it could get downright chilly!

If you are invited to an outdoor ceremony on a ski hill, then nice, warm activewear is a must. We’re talking, down parka, tights or pants, mitts, hat and nice boots are all usually appropriate attire (skis or snowboards too if you’re heading down the slopes afterwards)!

Winter ski wedding via Martha Stewart Weddings

Of course, if you are attending an outdoor ceremony in a courtyard outside the venue, the dress code is generally a little less casual. A warm coat or jacket is still a must, and a scarf is a stylish touch. Dress pants are usually acceptable and often warmer, heavier fabrics are fine too. For footwear, choose closed-toe shoes (not strappy sandals) or stylish winter dress boots. If it’s really cold, a stylish hat is not out of the question either. For older guests and children it is especially important to put warmth and comfort over style if need be.

Grey wool coat and black cashmere dress via Ralph Lauren.

As well, keep in mind that inside the venue is going to be warm and heated. If you don’t have time to change your attire, don’t fret too much about what you’re wearing. The dress code, is likely more relaxed and chances are there will be others in the same boat. If you do have time to change, ladies may want to change into a dress and heels. Sleeveless dresses are fine if you plan on wearing a shawl or cashmere sweater, otherwise slightly heavier fabrics with longer sleeves may be more comfortable. If you can’t change entirely, consider bringing a second pair of shoes for inside.

Cashmere scarves via Restoration Hardware

Winter weddings do afford the opportunity to wear rich, vibrant colors and fabrics  especially around the holidays. Deep reds, purple and sapphire blues, slate grey, velvet and shimmering metallics can all look fabulous! Just remember, wearing white is still considered a “don’t” by many (though Pippa Middleton’s white bridesmaid dress is changing some people’s views!).

Festive Dresses from BHLDN

Stay tuned for more tips on keeping the wedding party stylishly warm and what to wear to outdoor, winter activities in the mountains.

Happy Planning!

For more information on our wedding planning and design services contact us at 1.888.679.0956 or info@naturallychic.ca or via website at

www.naturallychic.ca

5 Winter Wedding Tips

By

At Naturally Chic, it’s no secret we love winter weddings! Here’s 5 Winter Wedding Tips if you’re planning a winter wedding in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

1. Take Advantage of Festive Decor

Mountain Venues in Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper are frequented with skiiers, snowboarders, tourists and holiday shoppers. Shops, hotels and accommodations are often festively decorated from mid-November to January. If you are planning a winter wedding in the mountains why not take advantage of the festive decor already in place and have a winter or holiday themed wedding? Not only will you have a ready-made, warm and inviting ambience in place, but you might also save on wedding decor costs! Truthfully, most guests love getting into the holiday spirit for December weddings!

Winter Wedding decor at Buffalo Mountain Lodge | photo by Kim Payant Photography

Buffalo Mountain Lodge Banff |Photo Credit: Kim Payant Photography

It’s a good idea to work with the venue decor. You may want to consider a neutral wedding color palette as well so it doesn’t clash with the venues decorations.  You can then add your own personal, festive touches to your table decor,  favors and other focal points. Candles, pinecones, evergreen boughs and snowflakes can help complete the scene.

For wedding favors consider edible holiday treats such as gingerbread men, snowman cake pops or s’mores. Or how about mini-handwarmers, snowglobes or even a personalized vintage ornaments as guest favors?

Custom winter wedding favors | cashmere handwarmers in wood box by Naturally Chic

Custom Wedding favors by Naturally Chic | Photo by Orange Girl

If you are planning a winter wedding during the holiday season, be sure to ask the venue what their holiday decor consists of. Chances are their decorations will be elegant and beautiful, but there ‘s always chance it won’t suit your personal tastes. Ask if you have the option of moving or changing out the decor with your own decor. Some venues have professionally installation of holiday decor and can’t accommodate taking it down. Most venues will allow you to move some, but not all of the decor. At least you will know what you are working with!

2. Take Advantage of Festive Activities

The mountain towns of Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper have winter festivities from World Cup Ski events, to the Ice Magic Festival in Lake Louise, the Taste of Christmas in November in Jasper, to the Santa Claus Parade in Banff! Most venues also have their own events and activities which are perfect for you and your wedding guests to partake in. With outdoor hot tubs, fire pits, smores, and ice skating, there’s almost always something to do. During the holidays it’s even better….many venues will provide a Christmas tree in your room, stockings to hang, festive meals, and so many more fun activities!

Ask your hotel or wedding venue what activities they have planned on the weekend of your wedding. You may want to include a note in each of your guests’ rooms outlining activities you’ve planned and other activities in the local area!

3. Wedding Photography

There’s nothing like the mountains with a fresh blanket of snow for wedding photographs. Not only are they the perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony, but also make for spectacular wedding party photos!  Add twinkling lights and snow-laden trees, and well, you’ve got yourself a winter wonderland!

In winter, the light fades earlier in the evening than the other seasons. You may want to opt for an early ceremony to take full advantage of the light and have plenty of time for photos. If you’re not worried about tradition, you could opt for a “first look” reveal earlier in the day and take wedding party photos before the ceremony.

Although twinkling lights and Christmas trees may provide beautifully festive wedding photos, ensure that you take lots of photos in a more neutral setting as well. Although festive at the time, you may not want to display your wedding photos in your home in July if they all look like holiday photos!

Winter Wedding by Naturally Chic | Photo Abby Plus Dave Photography

Winter wedding by Naturally Chic |Photo Credit: Abby Plus Dave Photography

4. Keep Your Guests in Mind

We’ve already mentioned several ways in which a winter wedding can be a fun and festive experience for your guests, but keeping your guests happy in winter may mean a little extra effort on your part.

If you are having an outdoor ceremony keep in mind that it does tend to cool off more in the late afternoon and early evening. Take care of your guests and don’t make them sit or stand outside for too long! Providing hot drinks and toasty shawls or blankets is always a nice gesture. You might also consider renting outdoor heaters to place around your ceremony site. A warm guest is a happy guest! Also ensure  your  the venue staff take extra precautions to keep walkways free of snow and ice.

Banff wedding Planner Naturally Chic | www.naturallychic.ca

Design by Naturally Chic | Photo Credit Julie Williams Photography

5. Winter Dress Code

The number one rule of dress for a winter wedding is to ensure your guests are warm and comfortable! This is especially important if your wedding ceremony will be outside! If it’s an outdoor ceremony, let your guests know well in advance. Let them know it’s okay to wear their coats and scarves! This doesn’t necessarily mean your guests won’t dress nice, but you may have to be prepared to relax your dress code a little. Mountain weddings can be a different ballgame so allow them to dress warm, especially if it means winter driving conditions for your guests.

Emerald Lake Lodge winter wedding by Naturally Chic | photo Julie Williams Photography

Photo Credit: Julie Williams Photography

Don’t forget yourself and your bridesmaids either! Strapless bridesmaid dresses, although beautiful may not be practical in winter…pashminas or winter shawls may be in order!

winter wedding and custom coffee cups by Naturally Chic

Winter wedding by Naturally Chic | Photo Credit Julie Williams Photography

If you have other wedding activities planned for your guests (ice-skating, skiing, etc.), send along a Wedding Day Itinerary with dress suggestions or include it on your wedding website.

In our next couple of posts, we’ll be talking more about winter wedding fashion and decor!

Happy Planning!

For more information on our wedding planning and design services contact us at 1.403.679.1409 or  hello@naturallychic.ca or visit us at Naturally Chic.