Marguerite Murchison Breeden Lee and Kristofer Robert Wessels were united in marriage on June 11, 2025, at Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. The 7:30 P.M. evening ceremony was held on the shore of the lake, officiated by Cole Hofstra from Calgary, Canada.
The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jamie F. Lee, Jr. (Luke) of Bennettsville. She is the granddaughter of the late Honorable and Mrs. Jamie F. Lee and the late Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Dante Corradi of Bennettsville. The bride graduated from Midlands Technical College and the Park Ranger Training Program at Northern Arizona University. She is employed with Central Oregon Pathology Consultants, in Bend, Oregon.
The groom is the son of Ms. Gina Marie Wessels of Grants Pass, Oregon, and Mr. and Mrs. Rex Wessels of Casper, Wyoming. The groom graduated from the University of Oregon and is employed with the U.S. Forest Service, in Bend, Oregon.
Marguerite wore a matte crepe minimalistic gown with a full-length train. The strapless cut gown featured a simple, straight-across neckline that cascaded into off-the- shoulder straps. The fitted boddice with a row of covered buttons down the back, extended into a full-length train. A cathedral length, organic inspired tulle veil, with wildflower appliques completed the bridal ensemble. Marguerite carried a large bouquet of fresh wildflowers that accented the floral-inspired appliques on her veil.
Marguerite was escorted to the ceremony site by her father, Luke Lee, and attended by her sister, Mary Jane Lee. The couple recited traditional wedding vows and then they shared heartfelt vows written for each other. Gina Marie Wessels, Kristofer’s mother, presented personalized leather-bound journals to the couple. Kristofer read his vows to Marguerite and then Marguerite read her vows to him. After vows were exchanged, Marguerite’s mother, Jayne Lee, presented handcrafted wedding bands to the couple. Each recited their pledge to each other, as they exchanged rings. After rings were exchanged, the couple engaged in a Celtic Handfasting Ceremony, tying their hands with a woven cord with Celtic love knots, symbolizing the infinity of their love. As the artisanal cord was slipped off their hands, the officiant announced Mr. and Mrs. Kristofer Wessels, and Kristofer kissed his bride to the joy and accolades of family members in attendance.
Immediately following the ceremony, Marguerite and Kristofer climbed the rock pile stairs to a higher elevation, which offered stunning summit views of the crystal blue lake and the surrounding Valley of the Ten Peaks. Breathtaking pictures were taken with the glacial-fed lake and mountain peaks as a backdrop. As guests and the couple prepared to leave the ceremony site, a small lemon poppyseed cake decorated with wildflowers was cut and shared by Marguerite and Kristofer. Family members wished them well, as they left Moraine Lake to embark on a life of peace and love.
Before returning to their home in Redmond, Oregon, the newlyweds enjoyed a honeymoon in Banff. They made lasting memories rock climbing, hiking, and enjoying outdoor activities in the area. They also marveled at the stunning views from the Banff Gondola ride. In August, Kristofer and Marguerite will enjoy an extended honeymoon in Todos Santos, Mexico.
Several parties were held to honor Marguerite and Kristofer, prior to their nuptials. An engagement party was hosted by Marguerite’s parents, Luke and Jayne Lee, on November 23, 2024. An Oyster Roast was held at their farm in Blenheim to honor the couple and to introduce Kristofer to family and friends. Those in attendance enjoyed Lowcountry cuisine, live music, libations, and fellowship. On June 10, 2025, a rehearsal dinner was hosted by Kristofer’s maternal grandfather, Don Cook of Torrance, CA. A wonderful meal was enjoyed at The Bison Restaurant in Banff. Toasts were made to the happy couple and gifts were presented. One special gift given to the bride was a ruby ring that had been purchased for her by her maternal grandmother, Mary Weatherly Breeden Lee. It was given to Marguerite on the eve of her wedding by her father, with a note expressing his love and admiration. On the morning of the couple’s wedding, a brunch was enjoyed at The Fat Ox in Banff. Though the wedding was miles from Marguerite’s South Carolina home, those in attendance enjoyed mimosas and a variety of Southern samplings.
Miss Marguerite Murchison Breeden Lee and Mr. Kristofer Robert Wessels Wed
