Modern Ukrainian Winter Wedding

Kelsa and Shane met by chance at a bar in West Edmonton Mall. Kelsa was just getting ready to leave, and as she walked past Shane she felt his eyes on her. She introduced herself, then decided to stay. They danced all night then started dating two days later.

The Proposal

The couple purchased a home in Shane’s hometown of Swan River, Manitoba. On possession day, Shane left to buy renovation supplies before taking Kelsa on the walkthrough. When she opened the door to the master bedroom, she found the room filled with flowers, photos of her and Shane, and the words “marry me” painted on the wall.

The Big Day

Kelsa and Shane returned to Edmonton for their wedding; they held their ceremony at Latitude 53 art gallery and their reception at St. John’s cultural centre. Volya Ukrainian Dance Ensemble performed for guests before a traditional Ukrainian buffet dinner.

The couple included some non-traditional elements to make their day unique: mixed bridal parties to include friends and siblings regardless of gender, cute cake pops instead of a wedding cake, and photos before the ceremony.

Favourite Moments

Kelsa: “If I had to pick one moment it would be seeing Shane’s reaction to seeing me for the first time when we did the first look photos. I was so excited and a little nervous to see his reaction.” 

Shane: “My favourite moment of the day was seeing my beautiful wife walk down the isle and knowing we will spend the rest of our lives together. Seeing her nearly brought me to tears.”

Engagement Ring Cut

Princess

First Dance

‘Timeless’ – Airborne Toxic Event

Father-Daughter & Mother-Son Dance(s)

Father-Daughter Dance: ‘You Are My Sunshine’ – Johnny Cash 

Mother-Son Dance: ‘God Gave me You’ – Blake Shelton 

Advice from the Newlyweds

“Hire a wedding planner, even if it’s just for the wedding day. They honestly take care of everything so you can truly enjoy it with your family and friends.”

Looking Forward to Most Now Being Married

“Building our lives and future together and growing our newly started business. We make a really great team and work well together. We also are looking forward to starting a family.”

Honeymoon

St. George’s, Grenada – Sandals LaSource Grenada