Yellowknife (Jul 05/06) - Michelle (nee Knott) and James Beckwith were looking to celebrate their summer wedding with a country western flair.

So when it came to choosing a location, the Gold Range was at the top of the list, said groom James Beckwith.

About 160 people, many sporting cowboy hats and garb, applauded the bride-to-be as she walked down the aisle to Canada's country star Shania Twain in the Range's first ever wedding.

Sealing the deal with a kiss, Michelle and James said the Sunday wedding was everything they hoped it would be.

"It was wonderful," said Michelle, beaming as she greeted loved ones after the ceremony.

James said choosing a location wasn't tough at all.

"Most of us are into country and this was the only western place in town," said James.

Guests and family agreed the Range proved to be a very appropriate location, complimenting the wedding's theme "Two stepping our way."

Michelle's mom, Eleanor Howell, had her reservations about the location, but said the bar's renovations made all the difference.

"It looks really nice," said Howell, commenting on the burgundy, red and black wedding balloons and streamers.

James' father, John Beckwith, wasn't worried in the least about having the wedding at the Range.

"I just wondered if there had ever been a wedding there," he said.

Making sure the bar's first wedding went smoothly, general manager Nadene McMenemy said she hopes to hold other events like this in the Range.

"This is a new direction we're taking the bar -- private parties, stags," said McMenemy.

Sheila Leonardis, a Justice of the Peace, officiated over the ceremony.

Leonardis wasn't surprised by the wedding's location since she's been marrying people since 1984.

"Nothing really surprises you. I've done weddings all over the place," she said.

The ceremony was an emotional affair. Both bride and groom needed a few moments to compose themselves.

At one point Michelle cried, "I need tissue," laughingly.

The entire wedding ceremony, dinner and reception were held at the Range, which was booked for the whole evening.