Real Weddings – A “Sex & The City” Gala Wedding Celebration

These Manolo Blahnik shoes
were the inspiration
behind our “Sex & The City”
wedding!

It all started with a pair of shoes! Just like on the infamous HBO TV show, a pair of Manolo Blahnik heels were behind the inspiration for this Sex & The City themed wedding of Caroline and Ryan. The bride and her attendants had found these fabulous chic black cocktail dresses and were shopping for shoes when they decided to go with a similar style of Manolo Blahniks in different colors – hot pink for the bride, and then the other bridesmaids were in shades of purple, black, lime green, and a multi-hued floral print. It was fun, fabulous, and a great way to start!

The couple decided to have their wedding in the quaint mountain town of Banff, Alberta (a couple of hours outside Calgary). No location was more perfect for their extravaganza than the Fairmont Banff Springs Resort, a majestic castle nestled in the magnificent Rockies.

The Fairmont Banff Springs, a castle in the Rockies, was the ideal setting for their wedding. – Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels

The ceremony took place on the Outdoor Terrace. With flower baskets of bright pink wave petunias and spectacular mountains in the backdrop, very little was needed to complete the look. Elegant white chair covers with an attached sash were used, along with roman pillars supporting aisle arrangements, including crystal bling and mini-decorative shoes. A harpist entertained guests prior to the ceremony and provided the music throughout, just right for the outdoor setting.

Despite a forecast of rain, we were thrilled that the sun was out, making it possible for the outdoor ceremony to take place. The groom and groomsmen looked stylish in formal tuxes. The bridesmaids looked beautiful with their different coloured Manolos and corresponding colour bouquets. The bride, herself, was positively radiant in a designer couture Monique Lhuillier gown.  The Mayor of Banff performed the simple, but heartfelt ceremony, a truly wonderful reflection of Caroline and Ryan.

Afterwards, guests were able to enjoy the drink of the day – pink cosmopolitans, of course – in the Banff Spring’s Mt. Stephen Hall. This incredible space has high ceilings, sweeping balconies, and is reminiscent of a medieval castle. It is truly an elegant venue, but we also wanted it to reflect the “Manhattan” touch to continue with our theme. The chairs were moved inside and floor length white linens were used with a regal black and white fleur-de-lis damask overlay. Hot pink satin napkins provided the necessary splash of color we were after.

Towering hot pink hydrangea and orchids centerpieces, including black ostrich plumes and hanging crystals were combined with lower versions of a similar centerpiece to provide visual interest in the room. Flower petals, mirrored surfaces, ambient lighting, and romantic candlelight were also used to help create the sophisticated and dreamy atmosphere. Of course, we couldn’t forget our Sex & The City theme, and threw in some bling and sparkle on the table numbers and cocktail tables to complete the appearance.

Flowers are an important part of bringing to life any event! The black ostrich plumes and crystal additions were necessary to add the stylish flair we were after. – Photo courtesy of M. MacRae.

The cake was also a beautiful accompaniment to the day.  It was a delicious decadence with one tier of lemon raspberry, a second-tier of Callebaut chocolate and the third tied was the couple’s personal favourite; red velvet.

It was an incredible day from start to finish! It had the elegance that matched the venue, and the fun and frolic (and, of course, the bling) of the Sex & The City theme we were after. The guests had a wonderful time and danced the night away right to the end. We couldn’t have asked for anything more! On behalf of Creative Weddings and Occasions, congratulations to Caroline and Ryan on their wedding and best wishes as you begin your married life together!

Special thanks to all of the vendors who made this event possible including the Fairmont Banff Springs Resort, René Michaud of Bliss Photographic, Officiant John Stulz, Harpist Deborah Nyack, Randy of Good Times Entertainment DJ & Entertainment Services, Cake Creations, and Willow Haven Flower Shop.

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Cathy MacRae is a certified wedding and event planner, and owner of Creative Weddings and Occasions and Del Sol Destination Weddings. Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, she plans wedding for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area, who want a wedding that is a unique and personal reflection of them. She is also a destination wedding specialist, working with couples who desire to wed in various picturesque dream locations throughout the world. For more information about planning your own wedding or for advice from Cathy, please contact her at info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com.