Stylish Canadian Weddings: A Rustic, Elegant Affair in Scenic Whistler

Classic pickup lines exist for a reason: Sometimes they work! When Matthew Gibbons approached Kate Buitenhuis with the oft-heard, “You look familiar,” she didn’t think much of the exchange. But with a little more conversation, the pair found common ground. The two had once lived in the same building, and  Matthew attended kindergarten in West Vancouver with one of Kate’s relatives. Romance blossomed, and 10 years later, on Christmas Eve 2015, Matthew surprised Kate at her parents’ house. “Matt showed up when he was supposed to be in Whistler, and proposed at the entrance,” says Kate. “He said he wanted to spend every Christmas with me.”

Suffice to say this duo knows a thing or two about party planning. Kate is a senior public relations manager with Michael Kors and Matthew is president of The MRG Group, an entertainment and hospitality organization. Inside of seven months, the two whipped up an August affair at the groom’s family home in Whistler B.C. Naturally, Gibbons’ contacts within the thriving Vancouver food and drink scene played a part. Guests dined “family style” on eats prepared by The Yale Saloon executive chef Mark Crofton and danced lakeside to tunes doled out by resident D.J. at The Biltmore Cabaret.

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Photography by Shari + Mike

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“Choosing the perfect dress was definitely a challenge therefore it only felt right to select two. I wanted an elevated classic look for the ceremony and then a fun party gown for the reception.” Kate chose an Oscar de la Renta from Kleinfelds in Toronto for the ceremony and a Theia gown for the reception Sash and Bustle.