Canadian Pacific mountains, hay bails for ceremony seating, baby’s breath bouquets and touches of that perfect old fashioned red…the only thing missing is my own wedding time machine so I could personally attend this rustic, chic wedding! Caitlin + Jared’s wedding is without a doubt one those celebrations you remember for a life time. This couple looks super fashionable and every decorative detail of the ceremony and reception is so sweet. I love a wedding that blends elegance and formal wear with natural beauty and rural flare – when done right, it’s like wedding heaven. And the secret: keeping it simple and making sure to include your gorgeous Chocolate Labrador Retriever on the big day!
Caitlin + Jared | August 20, 2011 | Bodega Ridge Lodge – Galiano Island, British Columbia, Canada
The Ceremony
The ceremony took place at Bodega Ridge Lodge on Galiano Island, British Columbia, Canada. It was an outdoor wedding with approximately 55 guests in attendance. The ceremony location was stunning. It took place at the 22 acre property’s highest point, with a view to die for of the pacific ocean. It was a non-demoninational/non-religious ceremony with the bride’s mother’s good friend (Shirley) as the officiant (despite her never having officiated a wedding before!). Guests sat on bales of hay, and a mojito toast (using mint and blackberries picked fresh from the property) marked the end of the ceremony celebration.
The Reception
The reception also took place at Bodega Ridge Lodge, outdoors under a marquee tent. The vision I had for our wedding was rustic chic, and of greatest importance to my husband (yikes, I better get used to saying that!) and I was that our guests really enjoyed themselves. The menu included a wide assortment of dishes made mainly from locally produced ingredients, including cedar-planked salmon and flat iron steaks. Cupcakes (3 flavours, including the brides favourite: red velvet!) made by a local baker were served in lieu of wedding cake. Speeches by family and friends were given, and a dance party followed inside the lodge.
How Caitlin Felt in Her Wedding Dress
The 3 words that best describe how I felt in my wedding dress: ethereal, authentic, and stunning.
Why Caitlin Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
What made me decide to sell my wedding dress: From the moment I put on the dress on my wedding day, I felt a sense of absolute excitement and happiness that is difficult to put into words. After a lengthy search and much deliberation on selecting the perfect dress, I just knew I had made the right decision. The dress really made me feel elegant and beautiful and was a true representation of who I am. But as someone who tends not to get too attached to ‘things’, I always knew that I wouldn’t hang onto the dress after my wedding day. Instead, I loved the idea that another bride would have the chance to enjoy it and experience the excitement and happiness that I was so lucky to have felt on my big day.
