A Creative, DIY Wedding In Calgary, Alberta

Updated Oct 21, 2014

Lauren and Joseph met through friends in high school and clicked instantly. After years of dating, the two decided to buy a house together. The day the deal went through the couple had their friends and family over to Lauren's parents' house to celebrate. "Halfway through dinner, Joseph got up to give a thank you speech - and completely surprised me by getting down on one knee in front of everyone!" exclaimed Lauren.

Lauren and Joseph decided to craft many of the decor elements for their wedding day themselves. There were several different wooden plank signs that were hand-painted, a lemonade stand, a photo booth, and strands of gorgeous custom garlands, all of which gave the wedding an eclectic and personalized flair. "The meaningful elements added up to create an amazing and memorable day," explains Lauren.

Lauren looks back fondly on the moments she and Joseph were able to share that day - especially their first dance. "The ceremony had gone off without a hitch, the speeches and dinner were a huge success. That first dance was five minutes that we got to just get lost in each other, and for us to remember why everyone was gathered for the day," she reminisces.

Lauren Colborne and Joseph Skaff, July 20, 2013, Calgary, Alberta.

Photography courtesy of Shari And Mike Photography.

Vendors Ceremony location: Parkdale United Church Reception location: Private residence Bridal gown: The Bridal Centre Bridal party attire: Frocks Groom’s tux: Forman's Fashion Group Wedding planner: Shannon Valente Weddings Cake: Whippt Desserts Caterer: Devour Catering Music: Dj Fayyaz Khimani from Pez Productions Hair: Bella Bridal Hair and Cocoon Hair Flowers: Philip Chong Flower Bar
Stationery: Kennedy Ink