Date

Guests

130

October 9, 2015

Tying the knot somewhere far from home was always something Christina Competrini and Jonathan Goyetche considered, but the traditional wedding destination of a sandy beach just wasn't their style. "I'm more of a fall and winter girl," Christina explains. "Johnny and I both love escaping to the mountains whenever we can, so the thought of getting married there made me feel the excitement every bride should feel when deciding on a venue or location."

With many of their friends and family travelling from the east to Alberta, Christina and Johnny decided to host their wedding at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise situated in Banff National Park. "We wanted our out-of-town guests to feel free to explore and wander around the beauty of Lake Louise, on top of being there for our wedding," Christina says. With their venue in mind, the couple decided on a rustic chic theme to mimic the area's natural beauty and the hotel's gorgeous interior.

The ceremony took place inside the Victoria Ballroom overlooking Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier. The aisles were lined with flickering candles alongside beautiful green-and-white floral arrangements. The couple used farmhouse chairs for guests to sit on, which added to the rustic motif. "Johnny and I did not do a first look before the ceremony, because we wanted it to be a total surprise," Christina recalls. "The feeling I got walking down the aisle was truly indescribable-just a rush of emotion running through my veins. I remember holding hands and we were both trembling with excitement."

For their reception, Christina and Johnny sought the help of friend and event planner Megan Wappel to achieve their vision. Playing to the elegant charm of the hotel's interior, the Mount Temple Ballroom was brought to life via burgundy candles, gold dinnerware, latte-coloured napkins, creamy linens and low floral centrepieces filled with pink, white and green petals. "When I first walked in, all I felt was bliss and relaxation knowing our wedding reception was as stunning as I hoped it would be," Christina discloses. "Megan took the reins with everything once she heard my vision, and she executed it flawlessly."

For the newlyweds, the best part of the evening came shortly after dinner, when their videographer, NextEpisode Production, surprised them with a highlight reel of the day. "They gave it to us as a gift," says Christina. "I think my jaw dropped for the entire video. Johnny was at a loss for words. My family surprised us with the videographer, but none of us had any idea they were going to put something together to be viewed that same day. It was so special and we owe our beautiful family a huge thank you for their generosity and thoughtfulness."

Like any fabulous party, the evening ended with the couple and guests on the dance floor. "There was no hesitation from any of our guests once the music started," says Christina. "I think we danced with everyone for six hours straight. We had guests coming to say goodnight and telling us this was one of the best weddings they've been to. That made all the stress and hard work feel worth it for us."

Vendors
Ceremony and reception venue: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Bridal gown: Ines Di Santo from Kleinfeld Hudson's Bay
Bridesmaid dresses: Monique Lhuillier
Groom's tux: Coppley at Ed Williams Menswear
Cake: Crave Cookies & Cupcakes
Favours, stationery and wedding planner: Megan Wappel Designs
Music: Mike Iervella
Hair: Jessica Laned of Textur Salon
Makeup: Amy Joielene of Joielene Artistry
Flowers: Black Earth Floral Gallery
Rentals: Special Event Rentals
Harpist: Deborah Nyack of Harp Angel