It was a packed house at James A Richardson International airport as a pair of Olympians returned home Monday evening.

Kaitlyn Lawes, who won gold in mixed doubles curling and Bridgette Laquette who took home silver in women's hockey returned after being gone for close to a month.

Mallard, Manitoba's Laquette didn't just bring home a medal - she was also the first First Nations woman to play on Canada's Olympic hockey team.

And while winning a medal at the winter games was exciting for her, she says that wasn't even the biggest accomplishment.

"Definitely, I feel like I've opened a lot of doors. And I feel like I'm definitely that person - that role model - for young girls across Canada that come from remote communities to be like, 'You know what? I can do that! I can do what Bridgette did. So you know, to just be that hope for them and inspire them, is definitely a lot more important for me."

For Lawes, she says the reality of winning a gold medal is still sinking in.

"It was a dream come true to be able to come back from thinking we weren't going to have a chance to be at the games this year."

Lawes says it was also an amazing experience to be part of mixed doubles being played for the first time at the winter games.

"To be a part of the first-ever mixed doubles and showcase what that wonderful sport has to offer. It was an honour to represent our country and to bring home a medal for everyone here at home. It's so special, for sure."

Lawes has two weeks at home before playing in the world women's championship in North Bay, ON.