by Sharon Auld
With the 100th Anniversary of the Calgary Stampede just around the corner, I thought it would be appropriate for a “Western” wedding inspiration board. The “western culture” is in our blood around these parts. My mother grew up on a ranch when she was young and has fond memories of training and riding horses. She also remembers the very first time she visited the Calgary Stampede with her grandfather when she was very young.
I can’t remember the first time I was on a horse because I was so young, but I also have fond memories of horseback riding in my youth (and yes, getting bucked off, but always getting right back on). Even though I have horses now, I don’t get out to ride as often as I would like. But there’s just something about rustic wood beams, weathered old barn wood, old horse shoes and of course, horses that I love!
The Calgary Stampede honors our “Cowboys” and “First Nations” heritage and even though Calgary’s new motto is “the New West”, I still love the history and the spirit of the ‘Old West”.
From the Calgary Stampede website: “Some say the spirit of the West is the spirit of fair play – a simple and honest code of ethics that guides every man and woman who loves this land. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Keep your promises. Be true to your friends. And honour the land.”
Happy 100th Birthday to the Calgary Stampede!

western chic inspiration by Naturally Chic, all items by Naturally Chic and photos by HiS.Co Photography, except cake and cake photo by KD Photography via Style Me Pretty, Bouquet by Willow Haven in Canmore
Are you planning a western wedding? If so, what ‘western’ elements will you be including?
To see more beautiful work from Banff and Melbourne photographer HIS.CO Photography click here and from a western inspired wedding shoot here.
For more information on our Naturally Chic wedding planning and event design, call us at 1.888.679.9056 or drop us a line at hello@naturallychic.ca.
Happy Planning!