The Okotoks Museum and Archives have lifted the veil on a new exhibit showcasing some of the Foothills' earliest 'I do's.' 

The display features stories of how lovebirds from around the area met and married, engagement tales, love stories from the war, as well as a collection of dresses and beauty products used by brides and bridesmaids.

One of the dresses donated dates all the way back to the late 1800s according to Museum Specialist Kathy Coutts.

"It is in remarkable condition considering it's from 1897. It's on display. We also have some wedding dresses, including a beautiful purple dress from the 1920s.

"Oh those 1920s must have been wild and outrageous, the purple wedding dress is just stunning."

a Museum employee looks at a wall of informationSummer Student for the Museum Emily Anderson looks at some of her favourite stories from 'I Do' 

The display opened to the public the first week of May and will be available until September.

"We also have some interesting stories on wedding traditions. Things like carrying the bride over the threshold or the wedding veil or honeymoons. So a lot of interesting stories about those traditions and how they came to be."

She adds that a few of the items came from residents clearing and cleaning during the COVID isolation orders and notes that if people have found old wearing photos, clothing or related items and have nowhere to store them the museum is always looking for new old items.

"We are always on the lookout for more stories to add to the exhibit. Of anyone is interested in donating or loaning wedding dresses or anything connected to weddings of to the exhibit, we would be thrilled."

a close up shot of deer skin gloves worn in an 1897 wedding