On June 15th, last year, we went on a hike in the French Alps. It was near the town we were staying in, Chambery, and we hiked to a place called La Croix de Nivolet. On our way to the hike we had stopped at a cheesemakers and a bakery where one of the authors of Kirk's bread books apprenticed. At the top of the hike, we had a picnic, and Kirk showed Robyn some drawings he had been working. Stowed away in the sketchbook was a ring, and the message, "Will You Rosemarry Me?" Yes, it was corny. That's how we roll.
Robyn said yes, and now we get to share a special day of celebration with you, our friends and family. Like the day we got engaged, we wanted to have a party that represented what we love about each other: regarding the world with wonder, spending time in nature, eating and making great food, sharing experiences with people we love, and listening to great music.
Harper Mountain
The hike we went on started off in a small ski village called La Féclaz. There is a small lodge that we found (pictured on top) that was a bit reminiscent of the lodge at Harper Mountain (below). Harper mountain is a small ski hill just outside of Kamloops. In the summer, they rent out their day lodge and property for events, such as weddings. It's a great place to throw a party with lots of outdoor space, an excellent room, the ability to be loud without waking any neighbours, and ample room to camp over night. These things, paired with the fact that it reminds us of our special hike, made it an ideal place to host our wedding. You can check it out at harpermountain.com
Harper Mountain is located 25km outside of downtown Kamloops. It takes just under half-an-hour to drive there. You will follow Paul Lake Road at The Husky Station on The Yellowhead Highway (5), if you are heading towards Jasper, you will be turning Right onto Paul Lake Rd., and if Jasper is behind you, you will be turning Left.
Continue on Paul Lake Rd., following the signs to the ski hill. Note, the final 5-10 minutes between Paul Lake and Harper Mountain is gravel road with some switchbacks, but it is fine for any car.
Click Here for a downloadable / printable map. Please arrive by 3pm on the 27th for a 3:30 ceremony.
For those not camping (see below) we really don't want any drinking and driving, so please plan ahead for carpooling or cabs. We will be offering a shuttle at the end of the night to a couple of stops in downtown Kamloops. In order to know how large to book and what times, we would love you to let us know ASAP if you will be using this service and which time appeals the most. We'll probably do two of the following: 11pm / 12am / 1am.
Cars left at Harper will have to be retrieved by 1pm on Sunday.
Free camping will be available at Harper Mountain for Friday and Saturday nights. Bring a tent or RV, and join in the camping party. Keep in mind there are no power or water hookups or showers at Harper, but there are running sinks and toilets in the lodge. If you're bringing an RV, it would be good to know in advance.
To keep it simple and avoid complicating preparations, setup times for camping will be between 2pm and 8pm on Friday and between 11am and 2pm on Saturday. If you have a tent, you can also just throw that down between the ceremony and reception or whenever you get tired.
Our hope is that campers will have their own party on Friday night, while staying fresh enough for the big day on Saturday. The bridal party will be away at a rehearsal dinner but may make an appearance.
For those of you who are coming from out of town and don't feel like camping or want a home base, there are some options. There are lots of hotels in Kamloops. Some downtown ones include The Sandman Signature, The Plaza and the Riverland Motel.
We have a number of rooms set aside at The Thompson Hotel in downtown Kamloops for the 26th and 27th at a discounted rate of $100+tax/night (breakfast included). These rooms will be released if not booked by June 15th. To take advantage of these rooms and the discount, call The Thompson Hotel at 250-374-1999 and quote "Kirk Smith Wedding." and the staff will get you sorted.
Alternately, Paul Lake is 10 minutes from Harper Mountain, and there are sometimes vacation rentals available on AirBnB and other places. Make sure to look for something on the West end of the lake, close to Harper.
The wedding will have both indoor and outdoor elements. Chances are it will be quite hot in the day and cool down a bit at night. Layers, sunglasses, sunscreen and bug spray would be a plus.
There is no particular dress code, but we're hoping you'll want to feel both fancy and comfortable. If you're looking for inspiration or want to express yourself, think 1950s backyard cocktail party.
There is uneven grass and gravel, so consider that when choosing footwear.
Sadly, we are unable to invite any kids or dogs, though we will have a ring bearer and flower girl for part of the day.
If you have any food allergies or special considerations, let us know ASAP, if you haven't already.
FRIDAY, JULY 26th
Setup and preparation of the venue.
2pm-8pm "Check In" window for campers on this day, followed by socializing in the camping area
SATURDAY, JULY 27th
11am-2pm "Check In" window for campers on this day
3pm Guests Arrive
3:30pm Wedding Ceremony
~4-6 Cocktail Hour w/ Charcuterie and Mingling. Photos.
6:30 Reception Dinner, Followed by Dancing and Party Time
11pm/12am/1am Possible Shuttle Times to Downtown Kamloops
SUNDAY, JULY 28th
Recover. All cars, etc. left at Harper Mountain to be retrieved by 1pm
Many of you have asked about a registry. Your attendance to the wedding truly is gift enough. But for those wishing to bring a gift and looking for some inspiration, we have created an online registry Here.