• 

Surrounded by their family and friends, Matt and Ariana had their dream outdoor farm wedding on a stormy Sunday in August 2018, and it was nothing short of perfection. Alongside their guests, they championed the weather and had what I consider one of the best dance parties I have seen. The place was filled with so much joy and celebration. It was such an honour to be a part of this lovely day! The stunning images by Film and Forrest captured the day beautifully. Read some of Ariana’s thoughts from her wedding!

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHILE PLANNING AN OUTDOOR WEDDING?

When planning our outdoor wedding, we had to keep in mind the variability of weather on the prairies! We wanted an outdoor farm wedding, but we were concerned with the possibility of rain. Gathered was a perfect venue for us because in the event of rain there was the option to hold the ceremony inside the beautiful clear tent. 

Other things we had to consider for our outdoor wedding included supplying bug spray, sunscreen, and blankets (for the evening). 

• 

• 

WAS THERE A SPECIFIC WAY YOU HANDLED THE NERVES AND STRESS OF AN OUTDOOR WEDDING? 

We had constant communication with the lovely ladies at Gathered, who answered all of our questions and concerns.  We also tracked the weather constantly the weeks before the wedding to prepare for what might have been heading our way! The weather was something we couldn’t control—we had smoke and rain the night of our wedding but the venue was stunning and everything ran smoothly regardless of what the weather was doing!  

WAS THERE A VISION YOU WERE WORKING TOWARDS FOR THE BIG DAY?

Our vision for the wedding was a whimsical, outdoor farm wedding. We wanted to ensure that our guests would have an enjoyable and relaxing day as well! We planned a cocktail hour between the ceremony and reception where guests were supplied with lawn games, drinks and snacks. They could also get specialty Rosso lattes, cappuccinos, espresso etc. made by Gathered.

WHAT WERE YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENTS OF THE DAY?

Number one would have to be marrying my best friend, of course! Walking towards my husband to be, between the flowers that lined the aisle was a very special moment. Another favourite moment was the toasts and speeches. It was very touching to have our families and friends stand up and share their memories with us on our wedding day. Lastly, the dance! It was so much fun to let loose with our family and friends and celebrate the day—the icing on the cake was taking a break from dancing to indulge in the donut bar… 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

DO YOU HAVE ONE SPECIFIC MEMORY THAT YOU WILL CHERISH AS A COUPLE?

We wrote our vows to each other and kept them a secret until the wedding day. Hearing the affirmations of love, and commitments to marriage, spoken in front of our closest family and friends, is a memory we will cherish as a couple. 

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO COUPLES IN THE PLANNING PROCESS? 

In order to avoid getting overwhelmed in the planning process, my advice would be to do little bits at a time rather than leaving it to the last minute. To-do lists and checklists were my best friends! I also had a fantastic completely customizable, beautiful wedding planner book from Notable Planners- By the Planner Emporium (https://www.etsy.com/shop/notableplanners) that outlined all the details I might have missed and kept me very organized. 

WHAT IS THE ONE THING ABOUT YOUR WEDDING PEOPLE KEEP TALKING ABOUT? 

One thing about our wedding that people keep talking about is THE FOOD! The fresh, farm to table and locally sourced food was such a hit! And all kudos to Elaine and the Gathered team for preparing such a beautiful delicious feast! 

WHAT IS THE ONE THING THAT SURPRISED YOU?

I was surprised at how many amazing, helpful staff were present on the day of the wedding! They were essential to the smooth running of the day. 

WAS THERE A WORRY YOUR FAMILY HAD THAT NEVER HAPPENED, OR HAPPENED BUT WASN’T A BIG DEAL?

We were worried about the comfort of our guests for sure—would there be enough shade in the event of a hot day, would they be warm in the event of a cold day? What was the bathroom situation at a farm venue like? Gathered had it all covered! There was plenty of shade in the trees, they had heaters in the tent along with a campfire for warmth, and the brand new bathroom facilities were fantastic. 

WHAT DID YOU LOVE ABOUT HAVING YOUR WEDDING AT THE GATHERED FARM?

We absolutely loved the gorgeous tent with twinkly lights, the sunflower field, the flowers, garden, animals (including a number of dogs!) and the surrounding wheat fields. We also loved the phenomenal fresh food served by Gathered and the ability to bring in our own drinks. Lastly, what we loved about having our outdoor farm wedding at this venue was the warm, community-oriented, relaxing atmosphere, created by the family who runs it. They made us feel truly at home and like family. Our day would not have been the same without them! 

Venue: Gathered

Images: Film & Forrest

Dress: Sarah Seven from The Bridal Boutique

Hair and Makeup: Beautiful Calgary Bride

Florist: Kensington Florist