You’re Invited To

The Wedding of Ben and Sarah

July 5th 2025, at the Kimberley Alpine Resort

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a plus one?

We are so excited to celebrate our special day with our closest family and friends. Due to limited space and our desire to keep the event intimate, we are only able to accommodate plus ones if they are specifically listed on your invitation. Thank you for understanding!

Can I bring my kids?

We love your little ones, but to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, we have a few guidelines regarding children at our wedding:

Local Guests: If you are local and able to book a babysitter, we kindly ask that you do so to limit the number of children at the wedding.
Out-of-Town Guests: We understand that traveling with children can be challenging. If you are traveling from afar with your children, please note that children must be at least 3 years old to ride the chair lift. We are happy to assist in finding a babysitter for the afternoon and evening of the wedding to help make your stay more comfortable.

What is the dress code?

Our wedding will be held at the top of a beautiful mountain, which requires some special considerations for attire. The dress code is semi-formal, but we want you to be comfortable and safe as you enjoy the journey to the top and the festivities.

Clothing: Please wear semi-formal attire that you feel comfortable wearing on a chair lift.
Layers: It can be cooler at the top of the mountain, so we recommend bringing a jacket, shawl, or other layers to stay warm.
Shoes: The terrain at the top is rocky, so we suggest wearing comfortable yet nice shoes. Sturdy flats, wedges, or dressy boots are great options. We advise against stilettos or very high heels.

Thank you for dressing with both style and practicality in mind. We can’t wait to celebrate with you in this stunning location!

How can I travel to Kimberley?

We are excited to welcome you to our wedding, and we want to make your travel planning as easy as possible.

Tips for Traveling to Kimberley

How can I prepare for the Altitude?

Kimberley is located at a higher altitude, which can take some time for your body to adjust to. To ensure you feel your best for our wedding, we recommend arriving a few days early if possible.

Tips to Prepare for High Altitude

What accommodations are available in Kimberley?

We are thrilled to celebrate our wedding at the beautiful Kimberley Alpine Resort, and we want to make booking your accommodations easy!

Explore Accommodations in Kimberley

What are some activities to do in Kimberley?

Kimberley is a beautiful and vibrant town with plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay.

Explore Activities in Kimberley

Where are the best hiking spots?

Kimberley offers a variety of stunning hiking trails for all skill levels.

Explore Kimberley's Hiking Trails

What are some activities to do nearby?

If you have some extra time to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of interesting activities and attractions in nearby towns.

Explore Nearby Activities

Where can I find your wedding registry?

We understand that many of you are traveling from out of town, and your presence is the most meaningful gift you could give us. Please do not feel obligated to give a gift. We are so thankful to have you join us and celebrate our special day.

Thank you for being a part of our lives and for your generosity and support.

View our Registry

Where can I find the wedding week schedule?

Wedding Week Event Sign Up

How many days, hours, minutes, and second are there until your wedding?

We’re so excited for our wedding that we’re counting down every second!

View the Countdown

Where can I see your engagement photos?

View our Photos

Wedding Week

We’re so excited to celebrate with you all week long!

Thursday, July 3rd

Local Market (The Platz) | 5:00 – 7:00 PM

Stroll through the local market, enjoy live music, and check out some amazing vendors!

Backyard Fire | 7:00 PM – Late

Join us for a cozy backyard fire to kick off the festivities.

Friday, July 4th

Rehearsal Dinner (Bootleg Gap Golf) | 6:00 PM

A pre-wedding dinner with family and friends! Ben and others will be golfing the Rec 9 prior to the dinner—if you’d like to join, please reach out for details.

Saturday, July 5th – Wedding Day!

Getting to the Ceremony

Chairlift loading begins at 1:15 PM.
All guests MUST be on the lift no later than 1:45 PM. If you are not on the lift by this time, you will miss the ceremony.
Enjoy the scenic ride up to our ceremony location and take in the breathtaking views!

Ceremony | 2:30 PM

Our ceremony will take place at the top of the mountain at 2:30 PM.

Post-Ceremony & Chairlift Descent

After the ceremony, feel free to take a few photos and soak in the moment. Guests can begin making their way down the chairlift at their own pace

Cocktail Hour | 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

At the base of the mountain, we’ll have a cocktail hour with drinks and lawn games!

Reception Schedule

5:00 PM | Reception doors open
6:00 PM | Dinner is served
7:00 PM | Dessert & speeches
8:00 PM | Let’s dance! The party officially begins!

Closing the Night

12:45 AM | Last call for drinks
1:00 AM | The music winds down and we say goodnight!

Sunday, July 6th

Brunch & Pool Hangout (Dreamcatcher Clubhouse) | 10:00 AM

Join us for a relaxed post-wedding brunch! The clubhouse has a pool, so bring your swimsuit if you’d like to take a dip.

Event Sign Up

Travel Tips

We are excited to welcome you to our wedding, and we want to make your travel planning as easy as possible. Here are the options for getting to Kimberley:

Flying to Cranbrook (Canadian Rockies International Airport – YXC)

Car Rental

Guests can fly into Cranbrook and rent a car. Please note that car rentals are limited, so we recommend calling ahead to reserve a vehicle.

Pick-Up

If you are staying at the ski hill, we may be able to arrange for someone to pick you up. Please contact us in advance to make these arrangements.

Taxi Service

There is a local taxi company that can provide transportation from the airport to your accommodation. Uber is not available in Kimberley or Cranbrook.

Flying to Calgary and Driving to Kimberley

Scenic North Route (Recommended)

From Calgary, you can take a 4.5-hour drive through Banff. This route is very scenic, with beautiful hikes and waterfalls along the way.

South Route

This route is great for those who enjoy wide open spaces. It takes you through Alberta's rolling hills and has some interesting stops, including Frank Slide in Crowsnest Pass and the world's largest truck in Sparwood.

Additional Tips

Reserving Accommodations

If you plan to stay at the ski hill, book your accommodations early to ensure availability.

Driving Conditions

If you are planning to fly to Calgary and drive to Kimberley, check to make sure your chosen route is open the day of.

Activities in and Around Kimberley

Kimberley is a beautiful and vibrant town with plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay. Here are some of our favorite recommendations:

Outdoor Activities

Kimberley Nature Park: Explore one of Canada’s largest municipal parks with over 100 km of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf at the Kimberley Golf Club, known for its stunning views and well-maintained courses. Ben & Sarah both love to play the 9 or 18 at Bootleg Gap Golf, though all of the golf courses are beautiful. If you are staying at Trickle Creek Lodge, Trickle Creek Golf is right down the road!
St.Mary’s Lake: Enjoy a day out at the beautiful St. Mary’s lake. Bring a picnic, some towels, and your swimsuit!

Local Attractions

Underground Mining Railway: Take a guided tour of the historic Sullivan Mine on the Kimberley Underground Mining Railway, a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Cominco Gardens: Visit these beautifully maintained gardens featuring a wide variety of flowers and plants, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Kimberley’s Platzl: Wander through the pedestrian-only Platzl, filled with charming shops, cafes, and the iconic cuckoo clock.

Dining and Drinks

The Shed: Enjoy craft beers and delicious pub fare at this local favorite brewery.
Pedal & Tap: A great spot for casual dining, offering a variety of delicious dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
Our Place: Enjoy breakfast or lunch at Our Place, a cozy diner in the Platzl.
Bootleg Gap Grill: Enjoy a scenic lunch overlooking the 18th hole at Bootleg Gap Golf. Chef Rebecca does an incredible job making fresh and delicious meals. (This is where Ben and Sarah work in the summer!) Make sure to tell your server you are out for Sarah and Ben’s wedding!

Hiking in Kimberley Activities Nearby

Preparing for High Altitude

Kimberley is located at a higher altitude, which can take some time for your body to adjust to. To ensure you feel your best for our wedding, we recommend arriving a few days early if possible. Here are some tips to help you acclimate to the altitude:

Arrive Early

Give Yourself Time: Arriving a few days before the wedding will give your body time to adjust to the higher altitude, helping you feel more comfortable and enjoy the festivities.

Hydrate Well

Increase Your Water Intake: Higher altitudes can lead to quicker dehydration, so drink plenty of water before and during your stay.
Avoid Excessive Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can contribute to dehydration, so it’s best to consume them in moderation.

Protect Your Skin

Sunscreen: The sun’s rays are stronger at higher altitudes, so apply sunscreen regularly.
Lip Balm: Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from sunburn and dryness.

Know the Signs of Altitude Sickness

Common Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Seek Help: If you or someone else experiences severe symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

Consider Medication

Consult a Doctor: If you’re concerned about altitude sickness, talk to your doctor about medications that can help prevent or treat it.

We want everyone to enjoy our special day to the fullest, so please take these steps to ensure you’re comfortable and ready to celebrate with us at the beautiful mountain venue.

Hiking in Kimberley

Kimberley offers a variety of stunning hiking trails for all skill levels. Here are some of our favorite hikes:

Kimberley Nature Park

Horse Barn Valley Interpretive Trail: A moderate 4.5 km loop trail that takes you through lush forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Eimer’s Lake Loop: A gentle 6.5 km loop trail around a serene lake, perfect for a peaceful and scenic hike.

Kimberley Alpine Resort

Boundary Loop Trail: A moderate 5 km trail that provides breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the valley below.
Tamarack Trail: A more challenging 7 km trail that takes you higher up the mountain, rewarding you with panoramic vistas

Marysville Falls

Marysville Falls Trail: A short and easy 1 km trail leading to the stunning Marysville Falls, perfect for a quick and picturesque hike suitable for all ages.

The Butte

The Butte Trail: A moderate 4 km round-trip hike that takes you to the top of The Butte, a prominent hill overlooking Kimberley. The trail offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains, making it a rewarding hike for those looking to take in the scenery. It is also the site of Ben and Sarah’s engagement photos!

North Star Rails to Trails

Rails to Trails: A multi-use 28 km trail connecting Kimberley and Cranbrook, great for a longer hike or bike ride with scenic views along the way.

Cherry Creek Falls

Cherry Creek Falls Trail: A moderate 6 km round-trip hike that leads to the beautiful Cherry Creek Falls. This trail takes you through lush forest and along Cherry Creek, with the reward of a stunning waterfall at the end. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic and some great photo opportunities.

Activities in Kimberley Activities Nearby

Accommodations in Kimberley

We have arranged special rates for our wedding guests at Trickle Creek Lodge and Polaris Lodge. Your stay at these lodges will ensure you are close to all the wedding festivities and can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Kimberley Alpine Resort

Polaris Lodge

We are required to book all the second-floor rooms at Polaris Lodge for the night before and the night of the wedding. Booking these rooms would be incredibly helpful for us. Polaris Lodge is located above the reception venue, making it a convenient option for our guests.

Room Options and Rates at Polaris Lodge

One Bedroom Suites: 1 Queen Bed & 1 Double Sofa ($169/night + 15% tax) – Max 4 people
One Bedroom Master Suite: 1 King Bed & 1 Double Sofa ($180/night + 15% tax) – Max 4 people
Two Bedroom Suites: 1 King, 1 Queen, 1 Double Sofa ($292/night + 15% tax) – Max 6 people
Three Bedroom Suites: ($325/night + 15% tax) – Max 8-10 people
Lock Off (Standard Hotel Room): ($122/night + 15% tax) – Max 2 people

All King beds can be split into two twin beds upon advance request for a $50 fee.

Amenities at Polaris Lodge

Condo-style suites equipped with kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, fireplaces, and balconies
Free Wi-Fi and free parking
24-hour fitness facility
Heated outdoor pool and 2 hot tubs

Explore Polaris Lodge

Trickle Creek Lodge

In addition to Polaris Lodge, we have secured special rates at the nearby Trickle Creek Lodge, which also offers a variety of condo-style suites equipped with kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, fireplaces, and balconies. Trickle Creek Lodge is pet-friendly, while Polaris Lodge is not.

Room Options and Rates at Trickle Creek Lodge

Studio Suites: ($169/night + 15% tax) – Max 2 people
One Bedroom Suites: ($180/night + 15% tax) – Max 4 people
Two Bedroom Suites: ($275/night + 15% tax)

Amenities at Trickle Creek Lodge

Condo-style suites equipped with kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, fireplaces, and balconies
Free Wi-Fi and free parking
24-hour fitness facility
Heated outdoor pool and 2 hot tubs
Pet-friendly accommodations

Explore Trickle Creek Lodge

Booking Instructions

To book using the special wedding rates, guests must call 1-877-282-1200 Ext 2 and mention that they are part of the Sims-Mehlenbacher Wedding. These special rates are available for three days before and after the wedding, allowing you to extend your stay and enjoy the area.

We appreciate your help in booking the second-floor rooms at Polaris Lodge, as this is a requirement of our wedding contract.

Thank you for your cooperation, and we look forward to celebrating with you!

Airbnb

Rentals

There are plenty of Airbnb options near the ski hill, offering a range of styles and prices to suit your preferences. We recommend booking early to secure the best options.

Explore Rentals in Kimberley

Nearby Activities

If you have some extra time to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of interesting activities and attractions in nearby towns. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Cranbrook

Cranbrook History Centre: Discover the rich history of the region with exhibits on the railway, local heritage, and natural history.
Fort Steele Heritage Town: Step back in time at this living history museum, where you can explore restored buildings, watch live performances, and take part in hands-on activities.
Elizabeth Lake Wildlife Sanctuary: Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake and spot a variety of bird species and other wildlife.

Fairmont Hot Springs

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort: Take a dip in the largest natural hot springs in Canada, with both public and private pools available.
Hiking and Biking: Explore the many trails around Fairmont, including family-friendly hikes and challenging mountain bike routes.

Fernie

Fernie Alpine Resort: In the summer, explore the mountain biking trails, hiking paths, and scenic chairlift rides. In winter, it’s a great spot for skiing and snowboarding.
Fernie Brew Co.: Visit our favourite brewery for a tour and tasting of their locally crafted beers. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and scenic views from their tasting room.

Radium Hot Springs

Radium Hot Springs Pools: Soak in the warm mineral waters of the outdoor hot springs pool, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

Creston

Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area: Explore the extensive network of trails and boardwalks through wetlands teeming with wildlife. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Baillie-Grohman Estate Winery: Enjoy a wine tasting and tour at this beautiful estate, which offers stunning views of the Creston Valley.
Columbia Brewery: Take a tour of the brewery that produces the famous Kokanee beer and enjoy samples in the tasting room.
Creston Market: Visit Creston for the markets and fresh fruit stands to find fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious baked goods.

Activities in Kimberley Hiking in Kimberley

Registry

Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for, especially given the effort and expense of traveling to celebrate with us.

If you would like to give a gift, here are a couple of options

Traditional Registry

If you’d like to give a gift, we have a registry at our favourite local kitchen store, The Grater Good. Simply call them at (250) 427-2333 and let them know you’d like to purchase from Sarah & Ben’s registry. Share your budget or price range, and their staff can either help you select specific items from our registry or choose something for you based on our priorities. They’ll take payment over the phone and set the gift aside with a card for us to pick up.