Do It Yourself Style Foodie Wedding
photography: Juan & Angie Photography
Married in August 2020, Katelyn and Garrett’s small ceremony
packed big flavours into the Hemingway Room.
Katelyn and Garrett’s wedding was a standout of 2020. Katelyn and Garrett started with a long list of creative hopes and plans. When it became clear Covid was going to have a big impact on what was actually possible, the couple – in collaboration with the team at The Commons, paused to re-evaluate.
As a trained chef and part of Calgary’s restaurant industry, Garrett knew that he wanted to make food a big focus. Eventually, he and Katelyn realized their vision for a foodie extravaganza for 115 guests was more likely to become a much smaller – but no less impressive - gathering of 13, including the bride and groom. Fortunately, the couple’s restaurant industry experience made the pivot relatively easy. By the time they were working on wedding planning final details, they had a great deal of experience adapting to Covid related regulations in their work environments.
photography: Juan & Angie Photography
“We were so happy that we went ahead in 2020 since the uncertainty around COVID continued.
We didn't feel the need to throw a larger reception or part 2 since our smaller wedding was perfect”
~ Katelyn
With a smaller guestlist, Katelyn and Garrett were able to focus their budget on personalized details – they chose to add letterpress invites, name cards and champagne toast. Their small August ceremony took place in the Hemingway Room at the Ramsay Design Centre, where truly impeccable elements from local vendors enhanced the already beautiful setting. Local hotspot Bridgette Bar catered the event, bringing with them an abundance of innovation, style and class. Gourmet pizzas and a carefully curated selection of wines were served in the Parlour Room, showcasing the expertise of local
industry colleagues. Splurge Flowers added the stunning florals and Whippt Kitchen delivered the show stopping cake.
Katelyn and Garrett chose The Commons DIY package which allowed them to infuse their personalities into their celebration. Our team of event professionals were at their side throughout the planning and the pivoting, lending both moral and planning support. The result was an unforgettable celebration of exquisite taste, starring an over-the-moon couple, surrounded by love and a showcase of the best of the best of Calgary.
photography: Juan & Angie Photography
There is no denying that 2020 was a year of upheaval and change. The Commons, (and the entire events industry) was challenged to adapt.
While we were accustomed to being collaborators, and occasionally crisis managers, in 2020, time and time again we found ourselves in a counselling role, working to mitigate the potential damage of shattered dreams.
We found ourselves manifesting creative problem solving in abundance, harnessing innovation. We discovered the importance of authenticity and the power of personalization. While every type of event was impacted, it was the wedding industry where our learnings were most notable. Time and time again we saw loving couples hold steadfast in togetherness – supporting each other as grand plans gave way to intimate gatherings. Embracing our role as change managers, we were reminded of the power of unions and the importance of joyful connection. The power of love left us in awe – couples elected to overcome obstacles rather than succumb to them. 2020 was our year of celebrating tenacity – a year of realizing the power of creativity inspired by love.