Carlie and Drew’s love story began on a sunny summer day in the charming city of Kelowna, British Columbia, surrounded by mountains. Both were attending the same music festival, brought together by fate. Drew, with his Euro-style ponytail, had the plan to win Carlie’s heart with a platter of piña coladas by the pool. However, he soon realized that he needed a better strategy. Carlie saw Drew as a dreamy gentleman, but she wouldn’t be easily swept off her feet.

Weeks went by, and Drew, being the determined guy he is, devised a clever plan. He ordered peanut butter cupcakes from Carlie’s cupcake business for his mom’s birthday. This gesture caught Carlie’s attention and sparked her interest in Drew. It turned out that the key to her heart was through cupcakes and a love for his mom.

When it came time to plan their wedding, Carlie and Drew opted for a destination wedding in the mountains. The decision was rooted in a special memory from four years ago in Revelstoke. Drew had orchestrated a surprise family trip to their lodge during Father’s Day weekend. Little did Carlie know that the real surprise was waiting for her—Drew’s proposal. Oblivious to the impending engagement, Carlie didn’t suspect a thing, even as Drew paced nervously. They took a helicopter ride together, and it wasn’t until Drew uttered the words, “Carlie, this is for you,” that she started to grasp what was happening. Drew proposed on top of Mount Beigbie, and Carlie was overcome with shock and joy.

Bison Lodge, Drew’s family lodge in Revelstoke, held a special place in their hearts. They had created countless cherished memories there, including their engagement. So, it only made sense for them to choose this location as the venue for their wedding ceremony. The lodge had sentimental value that couldn’t be replicated elsewhere.

“We were lucky to have Evelyn Clark as our wedding planner from Calgary that helped us design our special day in the midst of COVID,” the couple says. “Although we were only able to have our immediate family present, she was still able to create the wedding of our dreams with the help of Modern Rentals and Crocus Floral Design! It was the perfect setup at the most stunning venue.”

The ceremony incorporated personalized elements that reflected Carlie and Drew’s unique love story. They wanted their special day to be a reflection of their personalities and values. While planning from afar in Calgary, they found comfort in the fact that their vendors were organized, easy to communicate with, and dedicated to making their wedding day unforgettable. Even without pre-wedding site visits, they felt well-prepared and experienced minimal stress leading up to the wedding weekend.

Carlie and Drew firmly believe that holding their wedding away from home added a significant sentimental value to the experience. The mountain venue, filled with cherished memories and family history, brought an extra layer of depth and meaning to their union.

Reflecting on their journey, Carlie and Drew offer some advice to readers preparing for their own special day. They emphasize the importance of trusting that everything will fall into place and not worrying too much about the little details. “Your guests will be so excited to celebrate YOU,” the bride says, “the only thing that truly matters is being together with your loved ones!” Carlie and Drew’s must-haves for the day were great food and wine, and they allowed everything else to fall naturally into place.

Carlie and Drew’s destination wedding in Revelstoke, British Columbia, was a testament to their unique love story and the power of trusting in the journey. Their choice to celebrate at Bison Lodge, with the support of dedicated vendors, ensured that their special day was filled with cherished memories and an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Vendors: Photographer: Joelsview Photography; Wedding Planner: Evelyn Clark Weddings; Ceremony/Reception Site: Bison Lodge; Florist: Crocus Floral Design; Stationery: Minted; Cake: Pip & Dex Revelstoke; Hair & Makeup: Kelsey Brynn Artistry; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Atelier Munro; Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal; Rentals: Modern Rentals; Dress Designer: Martina Liana; Dress Store: The Bridal Boutique; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Atelier Munro; Videographer: Danny LeBlanc