FineWeddings Regina Spring 2010

306.581.4912 | 306.731.2341 kobrigewitsch@gmail.com

VIENNA DI R USCIO P H OTOG RA P H Y

www.maybejustabite.ca

Wedding cakes: Elegant and sophisticated or fun and fanciful; whatever your dream, create it with cake.

Brownie pops: Delight each guest with a miniature brownie pop covered in milk or white chocolate and decorated to match your wedding theme.

Cupcakes: Beautifully decorated and sinfully delicious, cupcakes are the newest way to make your unique statement.

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! %)# %+- )

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WEDDING ESSENTIALS Thee Lingerie Shoppe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

PHOTOGRAPHY Kari Fortune Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

FLOWERS Fresh Green Flowers on Hill Avenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

WEDDING PLANNING Creative Touch Weddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

HAIR Satori Hair Studio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

FITNESS District Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

MUSIC Thumpers Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

REAL ESTATE Finding a home to love and enjoy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 First-time home buyers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Spring 2010

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ENGAGEMENTS AND BACHELORETTE Tanda Spa Skin Care and Makeup Essentials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

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Thee Lingerie Shoppe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

REAL ENGAGEMENTS Dave and Heather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Kent and Alexis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

WEDDINGS Plan your wedding with Samantha: Creative Touch Weddings. . . . . . . . . . . 20 New Year's Wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Jessica Bridal: Regina’s best kept secret. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 A Prairie Wedding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Spring and Summer Bridal Collection by Jessica Bridal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Qu’Appelle Valley Wedding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Thumpers Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

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A Summer Romance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Your limousine specialist: Classic Limousine Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Cakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

HONEYMOONS French Polynesia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Las Vegas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 St. Lucia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

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Spring 2010

VOLU ME 1, ISSUE 1

PUBLISHERS Randy Liberet: (306) 540.3320; Randy@FineLifestyles.ca Wayne UnRuh: (306) 541.3365; Wayne@FineLifestyles.ca 3440 Balsam Grove Regina, SK S4V 2S4 EDITOR Edward Willett; ewillett@sasktel.net GRAPHIC DESIGN Joanne Lauder; jlauder@accesscomm.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Trena Olfert; trena@finelifestyles.ca PHOTOGRAPHY Vienna Di Ruscio Photography CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amy Nelson-Mile Samantha Maciag Meagen Thomas ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Brooke Watson: (306) 551.4789; brooke@finelifestyles.ca Brenna Glascock: (306) 999.3463; brenna@finelifestyles.ca Trena Olfert: (306) 581.2756; trena@finelifestyles.ca Jill Melle: (306) 529-7582; jill@finelifestyles.ca Talya Erickson: (306) 690-8571; talya@finelifestyles.ca

www.finelifestyles.ca Fine Weddings Regina is published two times a year by Fine Lifestyles Regina, Ltd. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of Fine Weddings Regina, are copyrighted 2010 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Weddings Regina, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Weddings Regina or its writers. The name Fine Weddings Regina, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Weddings Regina or the company’s they represent. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

Want to feature your story in next issue?

Email: trena@finelifestyles.ca and tell us why you feel your story should be mentioned.

Created by: Trena Olfert Cover photo: Vienna di Ruscio Photography Spring 2010

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REAL ENGAGEMENTS

Engagement on Flight 238

DAVE /, Spring 2010

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HEATHER .!

TBA 2010 9

Dave and I had been dating for just over a year. We’d met on a blind date that my friend had tried to set up for several months before I eventually agreed. When we finally had our first date, we knew our relationship would be special. Over time, we grew to realize how serious we were about each other.

The time came for me to travel with him to Ontario to meet the rest of his family. We’d travelled together a few times before, and the morning started out as typical as any early race to the airport can be. When we arrived, the line-up to check in was crazy. We were two of the last people to check in, but to my surprise, were assigned seats in the very front row of the plane!

Mid-way through the flight, Dave got up to use the restroom. A minute later, the flight attendant came on the loudspeaker to make an announcement. Annoyed that he was interrupting a program I was watching on the television, I looked up at him as he said, “Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention please. Today we have a very special lady on the plane and someone would like to get a message to her.”

Seconds later, Dave came out with the microphone, dropped to one knee, and said, “Heather, will you marry me?”

The whole plane clapped and cheered as I sat in my seat, headsets still in my ears, totally in shock. I knew a proposal would be coming within time, but never in a million years would I have expected it that day, right on the plane!

I said yes, of course, and again the crowd cheered. The flight attendants served us wine as we enjoyed the rest of the plane ride as a newly engaged couple. As it turned out, Dave had arranged everything with the airline ahead of time, right down to the seats we sat in!

It was definitely the most memorable flight I will ever have. fineweddingsregina

Finding a home to love and enjoy

By Rick Roland

C

hoosing a partner and purchasing a home are both extremely important. You’ll have to choose your partner on your own. However, I can help you with your home.

It’s usually advisable to purchase a home as soon as you are in a good position to do so. Unlike renting, owning your home allows you to build equity: that is that beautiful thing where the value of your home becomes greater than your debt on it. The sooner you start building the equity, the better.

Some people fear getting a mortgage may throw them into the hole for 25 years. Instead, think of it as a “forced investment program,” where the biweekly or monthly payments are installments into an investment portfolio that puts a roof over your head and usually increases in value. Sure, regular payments may cut into entertainment expenditures—but you’ll be building your equity and not your landlord’s.

The first step is to call a good mortgage broker or make an appointment with your bank to determine what you can qualify to finance: a tent, or the Taj Mahal? If you do not qualify for a mortgage now, ask them to draft a plan to enable you to qualify for financing in the future. If you follow the plan, you can fast-track the process.

Then contact a real estate agent or two. Ask to meet to discuss your needs, and have them explain the process of home buying. Be certain your agent is listening to you and you feel comfortable working with him or her. Ask questions and voice your concerns. Good two-way communications are essential.

Don’t try to have multiple agents working for you, all trying to find you the perfect house. Real estate agents are paid by commission, so wasting their time is essentially preventing them from earning a living. Choose a real estate agent carefully, then be loyal.

Next, let your agent use his or her knowledge, expertise, and experience for you. Make a list of everything you’d like to see in your home, but separate the essentials, the things you can’t live without, from those that maybe you can live without. For example, a double attached garage may be on the wish list—but a double detached one might work if the rest of the house is just what you want.

When your agent shows you homes, communicate the positives and negatives. Don’t be afraid to get excited about the right property. Purchasing your home is a decision of the head and the heart—listen to both!

When you find “home, sweet home,” listen to your agent’s advice in crafting the offer.

Your agent is your expert coach, representing your best interests. Although “Uncle Bob” and “co-worker Sally” may have your best interest in mind, their expertise is limited.

Finally, just as you learn to love and enjoy your partner, learn to love and enjoy your home. Be willing to accept some imperfections as elements of character, while addressing other imperfections in order to have the best experience possible.

Best wishes for a good home-purchasing experience!

Royal LePage Regina Realty, 812 Victoria Ave. E. Tel: (306) 359-1900 Email: rroland@sasktel.net Spring 2010

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What’s underneath helps brides look their best

For all your wedding design needs...

By Amy Nelson-Mile

I love designing and being creative with wedding, maternity and baby photography. I am proud to offer design services for wedding stationary, birth announcements, artistic tile design, storybook wedding albums and guest signing book design. I also have a unique tile product line perfect to display your favourite photos!

Linda Paul of Thee Lingerie Shoppe: Regina’s premiere lingerie store, Thee Lingerie Shoppe, has everything brides need to look their best on their wedding day. In fact, a trip there can make the difference between a good look and a sensational look.

“You can buy a $1,000 dress,” says Linda Paul, owner of Thee Lingerie Shoppe, “but that dress is going to look totally different on two different people if one is wearing quality undergarments and the other is not. If you don’t spend money on what’s underneath, then you don’t pull off that outfit nearly as well.”

In fact, Paul recommends that brides visit the store before they make their final decision on their dress. She explains, “Before brides purchase their gown, they should make sure the undergarment is available.” Thee Lingerie Shoppe has a wide range of styles and sizes, from AA to JJ, and they are willing to bring in items, but it is not always possible to order what a bride is looking for. For example, a JJ size is simply not available in a strapless. So, says Paul, “before brides make their final choice, they should check with us.”

Paul also says that when brides are choosing their bridesmaid dresses they “should have that same consideration for their bridesmaids.

They want their whole group to look good and feel good.”

Brides will find shopping at Thee Lingerie Shoppe easy because the staff are trained to give professional fittings and can quickly assess which of the many bras they have in stock will work for each woman.

Paul says, “We know that this bra will fit and this won’t—different bras will shape your breasts differently.”

Many of the bras at Thee Lingerie Shoppe are imported from Belgium and France, and all are made of high quality material so that the bras will last longer and be more comfortable.

Brides who shop at Thee Lingerie Shoppe are guaranteed to look and feel terrific!

Storybook Wedding Albums

Thee Lingerie Shoppe 1858 Hamilton St., Regina, SK S4P 2B8 • (306) 359-3373

Wedding Stationery Invitations, Thank-you cards, Save-the-Date

Artistic Tile Design

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Guest Signing Books

Spring 2010

Heather Latreille halacreations@hotmail.com www.halacreations.blogspot.com

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REAL ENGAGEMENTS

A park-bench proposal I thought May 30, 2009, was going to be a normal Saturday. I had started it off with a run in the morning. When I got back home, Kent wasn’t there. At first I thought this was a little strange—I had expected him to be there—but the fact that summer seemed to have finally arrived distracted me enough not to be suspicious.

I enjoyed breakfast out on our deck, followed by a very relaxing tanning session. Kent returned at some point during my sun-soaking, but took off again, saying he had to do something at work. Again, looking back, that was a little strange, but I was enjoying myself too much to focus on it.

When he returned the second time it was mid-afternoon and he asked me if I wanted to go for a walk. We ventured down the bike path near our place. We weren’t the only ones out enjoying the beautiful weather! There were many walkers, runners and bikers out and about.

We walked some way before Kent suggested that we take a seat on a bench because his “back hurt.” We sat down and enjoyed the view of the creek and the many people that went by us. At this point, I thought we were people-watching, but apparently Kent was waiting for them all to leave. One of the most memorable characters was a shirtless man walking his dog, which seemed to be sniffing around the very bench we sat on.

I was so distracted by our surroundings that it took me a second to notice the music in the air. “Is that coming from your phone?” I asked, thinking he hadn’t noticed the music either. His response was, “It does that sometimes.” But instead of turning it off, he set it beside him and we sat and listened to the music while more people went by. While this seems like a nice idea, it was still odd behavior (even for Kent).

I started adding things up in my head, but before I could come to any conclusion he was down on one knee holding up a beautiful ring and saying…something. I wish I could repeat the things he said, but I must admit that I was so elated that I cannot even remember. Right at the moment of my jubilant acceptance of the proposal, a biker rode by and shouted “Are you kidding me?” and as he rode further into the distance, we heard a fading “Congratulations!”

ALEXIS /, Spring 2010

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We took time to soak in every detail that led up to that amazing moment, and when I regained the ability to walk, we stood up to start the celebratory journey back home. But before we left the shirtless man reappeared again. Having no idea what just happened he called out to us, “Did you guys happen to see a dead mouse around this bench?” We were so excited that I am not even sure we answered him before we laughed and joyously moved on.

KENT .!

Poor guy. He was one of the many people that day who didn’t realize the important moment that they added to.

We spent the rest of the day telling family and friends our great news and the engagement story that could only be our own. We will always have our special bench that we can return to.

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TANNING...

LOOK GOOD. FEEL GREAT!

TELEPHONE: 306 347 8266 • SUITE D 2100 DEWDNEY AVENUE, REGINA, SASK.

V IENNA DI R US CIO PH OTOG RA PH Y

ARTISTRY® Time Defiance® Skin Care System. Super agedefying ingredients in both the conditioning cleanser and toner.

Repair skin with daytime and night-time hydrating lotions or creams. Exclusively at TANDA SPA.

Enhance his appearance and revitalize the skin with Tolsom® Skin Care and Shaving System. Exclusively at TANDA SPA.

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PAMPERING

Indulge your pucker with Pressed Olive Avocado Lip Butter by Upper Canada®.

Smother your skin with Pressed Olive Avocado Body Butter by Upper Canada®.

All products available exclusively at TÄNDA Holistic Spa & Skin Therapy, Regina SK 306.586.1321 www.tandaspa.com

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WEDDING

V IENNA DI R US CIO PH OTOG RA PH Y

( &!/+ ARTISTRY® Total Mascara. Smudge-proof and water-proof– our all time fave for lashes that hold throughout a BIG day!

ARTISTRY® Lip Shine. So soothing and flattering for your pout, and tastes oh-so-good for your hubby-to-be to kiss you!

The Perfect Setting: ARTISTRY® Foundation, translucent powder and mineral-rich bronzer to control oil and prevent breakouts.

All products available exclusively at TÄNDA Holistic Spa & Skin Therapy, Regina SK 306.586.1321 www.tandaspa.com Spring 2010

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The best wedding photographs are timeless, beautiful mementoes, reminders of a treasured day that can be enjoyed just as much, or even more, after 30 years as they are the day they’re delivered.

For Kari Fortune of Weyburn, every photograph is an expression of beauty. Combining a sensitive understanding of the wishes of her clients with artistic flair and technical knowhow, she perfectly captures the personalities of her subjects and the mood of the day to create works of art that can be proudly displayed in the couples’ home throughout their married life. She takes the ordinary and turns it into the beautiful.

Kari is a professional, trained in the art of digital photography. She studied at the Vancouver Institute of Media Arts, and has mastered her craft in many different fields, including portraiture, beauty and glamour as well as wedding.

But creating beautiful wedding photographs involves much more than just technical ability. To ensure she captures your big day, Kari works hard with you well in advance to be certain she knows exactly what you want— and then she provides it.

Her philosophy is summed up by a quote by an unknown author on her website: “The goal is not to change your subjects, but for the subject to change the photographer.”

To contact Kari, call (306) 891-9703.

To see more samples of her beautiful work, visit www.karifortunephotography.com.

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A natural approach to choosing fresh flowers

By Terri Guillemets

If you've never been thrilled to the very edge of your soul by a flower in spring, maybe your soul has never been in bloom!

Flower design, like every other kind of design, has evolved over the years. At Fresh & Green Flowers on Hill Avenue we pride ourselves on our natural approach to floral design. Our arrangements truly have a look all their own.

Flowers for a birthday, anniversary or days of misfortune still remain the most popular choice for gift-giving. Buying flowers for your home, however, is considered a luxury to most (more so for us who live on the prairies!), even though flowers have become a staple design element for home décor, one that truly shouldn’t be missed. Flowers can be very effective without costing significant amounts of money.

For a simpler “punch,” I recommend using a single-stemmed flower on its own in a container—but remember, the visual effect starts with the container you choose, a vital ingredient of the finished product. Choose a vase that fits with your house’s size, style and colour.

Perhaps group three vases, each containing a single stem of anthurium or a monstera leaf (it doesn’t always have to be a flower!), in a row on your mantle or window sill. Place the flowers where your eye naturally goes when you walk into a room, perhaps on a side table at your front door or on the counter in your bathroom.

Nothing is more beautiful than a handful of blue hyacinths massed in a low, round vase placed on your dining table, filling the room with a fragrance that reminds you that spring is around the corner. Simple can be a dramatic, classic presentation in any home!

The tradition of choosing flowers for a funeral is always a big part of honouring someone.

We encourage our customers to choose flowers of different textures, styles and colours. To achieve a more natural look, I grow several different varieties of vines, grasses and foliage myself to include in our arrangements. Traditionally, white is the colour of mourning, but we are seeing more and more people choosing to celebrate their loved one’s life by using a variety of colours.

Our goal in creating the perfect floral tribute is to personalize. Did the deceased have a favourite colour or flower? What did he or she do for a living or a hobby? The answers to these questions can make all the difference in the choosing of flowers and colours. Sometimes a personal item may be added to the arrangement to reflect the life lived. Choosing the right flowers can make a funeral feel dignified and meaningful.

Fresh & Green Flowers on Hill Avenue Visit us at 3414 Hill Ave., Regina, SK Tel: (306) 586-1911

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Samantha Friesen, the owner of Creative Touch, is a Certified Wedding Planner from the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada.

She explains that Creative Touch offers a variety of services for brides: wedding planning and coordination, decorating packages, chair covers and specialty linens, invitations and stationery and wedding accessories.

Brides will certainly have the opportunity to create their own unique wedding look, because Creative Touch offers an astonishing array of materials in a wide variety of colours and styles. Brides can browse through the linen, the chair covers, the stationery and the backdrops. They can take a look at the different accessories for the wedding, such as veils, jewelry, favours for the reception and items for the stags and stagettes.

Friesen explains that having all the supplies available at her store makes things much simpler for the brides. “When they are trying to co-ordinate their invitations, décor and accessories they don’t have to match their swatches from 10 different stores.”

V IENNA DI R US CIO P H OTOG RAPH Y

There are many different decorating packages, ranging from those that are smaller in scope to those that are more extensive. Brides might choose to consult with her about their decorating, buy the supplies from her, and then do the actual decorating themselves, or they might decide to arrange for her staff to do the set-up and take-down.

A winning choice for brides

By Amy Nelson-Mile

Creative Touch Wedding & Event Design is known for the contemporary look of the weddings it helps to create. Friesen is knowledgeable about the current trends in the wedding industry and her decorating is all done in a very modern style. She says that two of the trends that brides will see in 2010 will be in the colour choices and the style. “There will be a good mix of bold colours and soft colour

R A PH Y: W H IT ED AY

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combos, and the style will be elegant but not stuffy.”

To Friesen, high-quality customer service is just as important as the materials they offer.

“We are a full-service company. We’re here from the start to the finish, from their first consideration of their theme and designs right down to straightening a chair sash.”

Friesen provides the one-on-one service that brides appreciate. They meet with her for the consultations, she and her staff work with them along the way, and then she is there in the end to make sure everything goes as planned.

Friesen strongly recommends that all brides consider hiring some help for at least part of the wedding. She explains that often brides take on too much for themselves. Although this seems as though it will be no problem in the planning stages, on the day of the wedding they often find themselves rushed, and wind up not enjoying their day.

Friesen says, “There are many places where brides can save money on their wedding, but sometimes it’s important to spend a little money as an investment—it will pay off in the long run when they have a worry-free day.

“We pride ourselves on making the day easy for friends and family and taking the stress out of everything. No one wants their bridal party to be up to the wee hours decorating.”

From start to finish, Creative Touch considers the brides. As Friesen puts it, “We do everything we can to create a positive wedding shopping experience for our clients.”

PH O TO G

Creative Touch Wedding & Event Design 220 McIntyre St., Regina (306) 949-8152 www.creativetouchweddingdesigns.com

P H OTOG RAP H Y BY TA G PH OTO

Creative Touch Wedding & Event Design is the perfect place to visit for brides who would like a beautiful wedding with a modern look.

Even better, it can be achieved with no stress for the bride— and at a manageable cost!

Friesen strongly recommends that all brides consider hiring some help for at least part of the wedding. She explains that often brides take on too much for themselves.

Although this seems as though it will be no problem in the planning stages, on the day of the wedding they often find themselves rushed, and wind up not enjoying their day.

REAL WEDDINGS

!1 A New Year, A New Beginning: 01.01.10 It was a frosty winter day of -36 C in smalltown Grenfell, Saskatchewan. But when you are marrying the man of your dreams, and everything about your day unfolds better than you ever imagined, even that kind of cold weather doesn’t touch the warmth of the joy your wedding day brings.

Kyle and I began dating in 2007. It didn’t take long for us to believe that maybe the notion of “soul-mates” could be real, as we quickly became best friends who fell in love with each other. When he proposed at sunset Spring 2010

last July at Mohr’s Beach, I said yes instantly.

After much deliberation about when we should get married, we decided that Friday, January 1, 2010 would be the day. It gave us enough time to plan without seeming like an eternity, and since it was a holiday for most, it would allow us a couple of days after the wedding to visit with family and friends before they had to travel back home. And symbolically, it meant a lot, too. A new chapter beginning the story of our lives together would start with the beginning of the New Year.

My bridesmaids and I dressed at my parents’ house. We were all pretty relaxed and able to 22

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enjoy coffee with the sunshine streaming in while we did our make-up and had our hair done by my cousin Brenda. The days leading up to this one had been so busy that the peacefulness of the morning and not having to go out anywhere to get anything done was truly a blessing!

I say the week was hectic because my sister Jada (also one of my bridesmaids) and I had spent the previous four days working at our store, Buds & Blossoms Flowershop, creating all of the centerpieces, bouquets and other floral arrangements. I had ordered in around 1,000 of my favorite pink roses to design fineweddingsregina

JANUARY /,

! %)#

KYLE MOHR 2

January 1, 2010

with as well as a couple of hundred tulips, some white roses and mixed Christmas greens for the base. We spent hours designing with our staff until late every night. The effect the flowers had at the church and the hall was worth every minute of it. I only wished I’d had the time to make up a few more pieces, as I absolutely love to decorate with flowers and think you can never have enough!

Just before 3 p.m., my friend and our driver for the day, Terry Sproat of Classic Limousine, picked us up in a gorgeous expedition limo, complete with a gas fireplace (which was a nice touch on that cold day!). On the way to the Grenfell Apostolic Church (which I had grown up attending), I got a little teary looking at my girls and parents all looking so beautiful and excited for me. It was one of those moments you lock up in your heart forever.

At the church it felt like a whirlwind started: make sure everyone has their bouquets, straighten the necklaces, line up and...action!

Walking down the aisle with my dad, looking at Kyle and everyone else up there on the stage with him, my heart was totally filled with joy. The church was bathed in the afternoon sunshine and filled with the smiles of our friends and family. The ceremony was simple and sweet; no tears for Kyle and me, as we had worked them out during the rehearsal!

Pictures followed the receiving line. We braved some outdoor ones, which proved to be absolutely beautiful. Tatum Duryba (Papermoon Photography) shot the photos in a short-sleeved shirt to make sure she knew how cold we were at all times; talk about empathy for your subjects!

Our limo driver followed her directions around town for pictures and brought us champagne for the ride. He literally went above Spring 2010

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and beyond the call of duty, not only for us and our wedding party, but also for our guests, throughout the entire day. He drove my flower girl and ring-bearer to their house to grab a snack during pictures, helped my mother bring the midnight lunch to the hall, drove guests to and from their homes and hotels, and then took us and our entire wedding party to the bed-and-breakfasts we were staying at in the next town at the end of the night.

Everyone loved the service! Our guests thought it was great not having to worry about driving, especially since there isn’t a cab service in Grenfell.

Arriving at the reception was beautiful. The character of the old town hall combined with the ivory and champagne linens, hundreds of twinkling white mini-lights, soft candlelight and hundreds of velvety, dark-pink roses in tall elegant arrangements created the feeling of stepping into a ballroom.

It was surreal to me. The head table had been set by mom using her own antique china and gold cutlery set. The pattern of the china set matched the color of our roses so much it gave me goosebumps—another extra-special memory for me, because my mom had gone out of her way to add that loving touch.

The wedding cake, created by Fadiah ParSpring 2010

son’s, was another one of my favorite things about our wedding. It was so exquisite I actually didn’t want to touch it, and held off cutting it until just about midnight!

RESOURCES

The entire ambience in the room set the tone for a romantic, fun-filled evening with our best friends and family. Our DJ (Gambo tunes) had played at my sister Kayla’s wedding and knew what our family liked to hear.

After our first dance, pretty much everyone got out there. My little nieces were twirling around the dance floor, other kids were running around the hall, playing and laughing, the adults were out doing the polkas and two steps, my brothers and cousins went wild during the AC/DC songs, a few got a little crazy and danced on some tables…we couldn’t have asked for anything more than the wonderful memories we have from that day.

Chaircovers, Sashes & Linens: A Touch of Elegance, Regina

Leaving the wedding was bittersweet for me because I had been having so much fun! The night was a bit stormy and the snow was blowing when Terry dropped Kyle and me off at La Parisian in Wolseley. It felt super-romantic running up the steps in my wedding dress to this 100-year-old bed-and-breakfast, knowing only the two of us would be there for the night. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

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Flowers & Decor: Buds & Blossoms Flowershop, Regina

Wedding Gown & Bridesmaid Dresses: Newline Fashions, Regina Flowergirl Dress:

Jessica Bridal, Regina (306) 757-8055 Tuxes: Tux & Tails, Regina Wedding Cake: Something Sweet by Fadiah, Torquay Photographer: Papermoon Photography, Grenfell Limousine Service:

Classic Limousine (306) 789-5400 DJ: Gambo’s Tunes. Melville Hair: Benda Kardash, Chatters Northgate Rings: Olson Goldsmiths & Victoria Jewelers

fineweddingsregina

VIENNA DI R USCIO PH OTOG RA PH Y

S E R V I C E S E C R E T B R I D A L Spring 2010

We'll be with you every step of the way.

Wedding hairstyles

By Natalie Gray

W

hen most people look at wedding photos, or remember a wedding they attended, they more than likely think first about the bride: how beautiful she looked, what her bridal gown looked like, and how she did her hair.

Call us for your special day.

We'll make sure you have peace of mind.

Mobile Makeup, Facials, Body Treatments & Pedicures

TÄNDA

Deciding what to do with your hair for your wedding day can be one of the most challenging decisions you will make as a bride. You want to look special and feel beautiful, but you also want to look like yourself. You will ask yourself questions like: “What colour should my hair be?” “How long should it be?” “Should I wear a veil or hair accessories?”

Believe it or not, there are simple answers—and in 2010, the less stress we have the better.

There are always hair trends, and over the years they have come and gone and some have even come back again. The most important thing to remember is that you want to look like you.

It is very important that you schedule your wedding-day appointments at the salon as soon as you set your wedding date. Consult with your hairstylist at the salon you trust about what is best for you. A hairstyle consultation is important because you and your stylist need to feel confident the morning of the wedding that your hair will meet your expectations.

Something that should not be overlooked is your hair colour. Never make any big changes to your colour close to your wedding. Your hair colour should be natural, and should complement your skin tone and accentuate your best features. You should have your hair colour touched up the week of your wedding to avoid having roots. If you want highlights, make sure you consult with your hairstylist about how you will be wearing your hair so that he or she can place them strategically to accentuate your wedding hairstyle.

If you decide to wear a veil and/or hair accessories, bring them with you to your style consultation. If possible, take a photo of your dress to your hairstylist to help the two of you to determine how to style your hair. If you have a preference as to whether to have your hair down, half up, or in a complete up-do, communicate that to your stylist before you begin. If you have always had short hair, work with it. Short styles can be very elegant and unique. If you really want some length and don’t have the time or patience to grow your hair out, consider hair extensions. They can be as quick and simple as the ones your stylist can simply clip into your hair for you the day of the wedding.

There are many beautiful and creative ways to style hair for your wedding day. Sometimes simple and elegant is best. Remember the most important thing is to be yourself and have fun. Your wedding day is such an important and exciting day for you and your fiancé—make the best of it!

Satori Hair Studio 3134 13th Ave., Regina, SK Tel: (306) 352-3600 • Email: satorihairstudio@sasktel.net

Holistic Spa & Skin Therapy

306.586.1321 www.tandaspa.com

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FIRE AND ICE Christopher and Ryan are quickly building a reputation for their exquisite jewelry designs. Molding precious metals to your specifications or dreaming up a creation just for you are all well within their expertise. Another difference you will find at this custom shop is their attention to details and the design of their gold work. You will also find the highest quality diamonds and coloured gemstones, which they have sold many of Saskatchewan’s most beautiful engagement rings and wedding bands. If you are getting engaged or want to thrill your significant other, you owe it to yourself to visit Ryan and Christopher at Fire and Ice.

FIRE AND ICE is Saskatchewan's only CNC custom jewelry manufacturers. Fire and Ice designs and handcrafts high quality, custom diamond engagement rings and matching wedding bands. We use only high end materials and pay close attention to detail, to produce stunning, one of a kind jewelry. Fire and Ice deals in Canadian Arctic diamonds, that are absolutely perfect. Fire and Ice also does restoration of older, family heirloom jewelry, full repairs, and appraisals.

• Canadian diamonds • True white gold • Ring sizing • Complete jewellery repair/restoration services • Custom computer designs made real • We purchase old gold • Watch batteries & link adjustments

V IENNA DI R US CIO P H OTOG RAP H Y

FIRE AND ICE Call, stop by or visit us online.

Phone: (306) 585-FIRE (3473) 3125 Quance Street, Regina Em: fireandice@sasktel.net

www.firenice.ca

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! /.%"/' ,!--!- . ""*, '! +,% !.* ( &! !0!,2 ,% ! $ ++2 Located at 1854 Hamilton St. in downtown Regina, Jessica Bridal has been providing unique service to bridal parties for more than 20 years, making the absolute most of the wedding experience for its clients. Carrying Jessica Designs International from Los Angeles, the boutique offers beautiful dresses at affordable prices.

“We have the ability to order right up to the last minute, because we have a full warehouse at our disposal,” says Tina Caderma, store manager of Jessica Bridal in Regina. “Ideally we would like a four- to six-month time frame for ordering gowns and bridesmaid dresses, but it’s not a deal-breaker.”

If the warehouse has it in stock, a dress can be shipped immediately. Jessica Bridal has the largest stock selection of grad dresses, mother-of-the-bride dresses, evening dresses, bridesmaid dresses and wedding gowns in Regina, says Caderma. The company carries both informal gowns, also known as destination wedding gowns, and traditional gowns with a full train.

Dresses come in white, ivory and champagne, and range in size from two to whatever size is needed. The store keeps sizes four to 26 in stock—perfect for plus-size brides or bridesmaids who would prefer to try on the dress instead of just imagining how it will fit.

When looking for the perfect wedding gown, start flipping through magazines and searching online for the style you think you might like best, Caderma suggests. “I say this cautiously, because the dress may look great on the model but look completely different on you!”

VIENNA DI R US CIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

After determining the dress style comes figuring out the dress budget. Caderma suggests going shopping with a price range in mind. If you don’t, you could find yourself in love with a dress you cannot afford. “But, at the same time, look for sales—you might be pleasantly surprised to find out the dress you’ve got your eyes on happens to be on sale,” she says. “Spending money on a wedding can easily get out of control. If your budget is only $1,000, don’t try on anything that costs more than that or you could be setting yourself up for disappointment.”

Just as you should never judge a book by its cover, so you shouldn’t judge a dress by the way it looks on its hanger.

It just might be your dream gown, waiting to be discovered. “When it comes to beading, jewels, crystals and bling—don’t rule it out,” Caderma says. “What might look like a lot can change immensely once it’s draped over your body. The extra beading and crystals can be like icing on a cake. It’s the finishing touch, complementing your hair, make-up and accessories.”

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Jessica Bridal 1854 Hamilton St., Regina, SK S4P 2B8 (306) 757-8055

Spring 2010

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VIENNA DI R US CIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

No appointment is necessary to try on dresses, Caderma says, but January to April is the busiest season for wedding- and graduation-dress shopping. Many stores are extremely busy at this time, so it’s a good idea to shop early in the day and to come with a lot of patience in case you have to wait for a fitting room.

When you make contact with a bridal consultant, discuss what kind of dress you want—and be specific!

“The word ‘simple’ comes up quite frequently, but it is way too vague,” Caderma says. Consider the opinion of your bridal consultant, because it’s her job to know which styles suit different body types.

When it comes time to go into the fitting room, try on as many dresses as you can. “The ideal is for the bride to wear her dress and for the focus to be on her, not on the dress itself,” Caderma explains. “The details of the dress should complement the bride, not the other way around.”

Caderma and the staff of Jessica Bridal know the stock so well that after a few trials, they will start pulling out the dresses they know will suit you best. “I wish it were as simple as putting on the first dress and knowing that it’s the one; however, that’s not always the case,” she says. “If you don’t find ‘the one’ right away, that’s okay.”

Don’t feel pressured and rush into buying the perfect dress right away—many stores don’t have refund or exchange policies for wedding gowns. When in doubt, shop around.

“Even though I manage a store,” Caderma says, “the most important thing is for me to know that the bride has found the right dress for her—and that she is happy with her decision.”

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fineweddingsregina

Gales Florist BOUQUETS

•

BOUTONNIÈRES

Floral designs and photography: Alison Galbraith Inspirations: Debbie Galbraith Raeanne and Neil Coulthard’s wedding photography: Angie Wagar

•

CENTER PIECES

•

FLOWERGIRL BASKETS

•

P E TA L S

•

DECOR

We have all your wedding floral needs

Gales Florist

•

3004-13th Avenue

•

2002 Dewdney Avenue

•

757-3030 • 949-1266

Spring 2010

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fineweddingsregina V IENNA DI R USCIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

REAL WEDDINGS

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day for a very long time. As I slipped into my bridal gown, I felt like a million bucks!

I woke up at my family farm near my home town of Zenon Park, Saskatchewan, to a beautiful sunny morning: June 13, 2009. “Today I am getting married!” I was so excited and I could not have asked for anything more.

My mom’s dad could not attend our wedding due to his health, so I made a last-minute decision to put my grandpa’s boutonnière in my hair.

Now that I was ready, it was time to get married!

Every girl’s dream is to have the perfect wedding day. A family breakfast was followed by a relaxing massage for my bridesmaids and me. All of our hair and makeup was done by my friends in the comfort of my parents’ home. Everything was so relaxing and fun. I could not have been happier.

My husband-to-be, our families and our friends looked towards me as my dad walked me across the yard and down the rose-petal-scattered aisle. Everything was so amazing! As I stood beside Kelvin, it all felt so right. We exchanged vows, placed our rings on each other’s hands, and had a beautiful Unity Sand ceremony. Our minister introduced us for the first time as Kelvin and Natalie Gray. We were married! As we walked down the aisle together, the prairie wind picked up for the first time

As our ceremony quickly approached, I started to feel the excitement as the meaning of our special wedding day sank in. Kelvin and I had been together for eight years, and we had both been looking forward to this Spring 2010

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NATALIE /,

that day, joining in our celebration. It was such a beautiful conclusion to our ceremony.

Within what felt like minutes, we entered our wedding reception, greeted by 325 of our nearest and dearest family and friends. Kelvin and I had planned a simple meal of BBQ smokies and souvlaki, baked potatoes, and various salads. It was so delicious, comfortable, and casual. It was just as we had imagined and we loved it.

We had a traditional evening of toasts, speeches and many acknowlSpring 2010

KELVIN GRAY ! %)#

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June 13, 2009

edgments, and of course a few kisses. Instead of cutting a cake, along with our wedding party, Kelvin and I served cupcakes to each of our guests. We visited, we laughed, and we danced. With our entire wedding party, eight-months’ pregnant bridesmaid included, closing down the festivities, we couldn’t have asked for anything more.

Looking back, it feels like a dream. I cannot believe our first anniversary is almost here.

It’s truly our Happily Ever After.

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fineweddingsregina

RESOURCES

Massage Therapist: Alisha Soucy, RMT

Hair and Makeup:

Wine: Peller Estates Copper Moon Wine Beer: Hotel Rendez-Vous, Zenon Park Live Music: Tequila Mockingbird

Satori Hair Studio (306) 352-3600 Bridal Gown:

Jessica Bridal (306) 757-8055 Bridesmaids’ Dresses: HouseOfBrides.com Tuxedos: Tux and Tails Rings: Victoria Jewelers Reverend: Karen Mitchell, Carrot River Photography: Danielle Stasiuk Photography Flowers: Flowers and Things Step By Step, Nipawin

Spring 2010

DJ Services: Bob Kapeller Cake: Faye Anderson Catering: Mary Knutson Catering: Arborfield Meat Market and Zenon Park Groceries Linens: Andres Cleaners, Nipawin Table and Chair Rentals: Party World, Saskatoon

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fineweddingsregina

District Fitness Studio can help you look and feel your best on your wedding day

By Amy Nelson-Mile

C

ouples interested in looking and feeling their best for their wedding day and beyond often frequent District Fitness Studio, a private, very modern personal-training studio that provides its patrons with lots of positive energy, making their workout into a special experience.

Ashley Shumate, owner of District Fitness Studio, explains that people find the physical layout of the studio very appealing. Bathed in natural sunlight from numerous skylights, it occupies approximately 2,500 square feet of a 5,000-square-foot loft.

The appealing environment extends to the spacious back yard, where there is lots of room for calisthenics, a hot tub for relaxing in after the workout, and a heated pool used for aquacise, beginning every spring.

In addition to the beautiful surroundings, clients enjoy individual attention that creates a sense of security and confidence as they work on getting into shape.

When people come in to see Shumate, the first thing she does is consult with them about their health, stress levels, budget, goals and schedule. Then she conducts a fitness assessment and creates a plan for them to work with. “I always personalize plans and focus on people’s needs. I really know my clients,” says Shumate.

Once clients have their goals and fitness plan in place, they have their choice of one-onone sessions or participating in the small group sessions which take place five days a week.

There is a community feeling to these sessions because most of the scheduled clients become regulars.

As well, the atmosphere is non-competitive; everyone works at his or her own workout station, at his or her own level. No one ever has to try to keep up with the group. Shumate keeps a close eye on each participant in her sessions, and although everyone is monitored, the people who need more individual attention receive it.

Shumate recommends that bridal couples come in as far in advance as possible if they want to get in shape and possibly lose a few pounds before their wedding day. Four months is her recommended minimum amount of time. Dietary/healthy lifestyle consulting is also available, since that’s just as important as exercising to losing body fat.

V IENNA DI R US CIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

District Fitness Studio is located at 1304 Halifax St. Ashley Shumate can be reached at (306) 527-6169 or ashley.shumate@ gmail.com.

Spring 2010

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SPRING & SUMMER COLLECTION PHOTOGRAPHY: Vienna Di Ruscio Photography • MAKEUP: Trena of TANDA SPA • HAIR: Natalie of Satori Hair Studio BOUQUETS: Rhonda of Fresh & Green Flowers on Hill Avenue • GOWNS: Jessica Bridal

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A tropical-feel bouquet of green calla lilies, dracaena foliage and a green cymbidium orchid.

H I L L

A V E N U E

A cymbidium orchid flower for the hair, a handful of ravishing red anenomes and then a bouquet of soft tones; pink lisianthus, white lisianthus, white dendrobium blooms and seeded eucalyptus around the base of the flowers.

Flowers of blue hydrangeas, vendela roses, blue eryngium and hyacinths for the bridesmaids. The bride is carrying a mixed lush bouquet of green hypericum berry, white lisianthus, blue eryngium and vibrant viburnum. An alternative to a basket for the little one is a flower purse made of white and yellow daisies accented with tiny crystal jewels.

Bold and beautiful bouquets of purple mokara orchids, lavender stock, purple freesia, yellow cymbidiums, green trachelium, orange iguana roses, hot-pink tulips, hot-pink gerberas and touches of golden-nugget orchids.

Pincushion protea and willow with orange berries for a small posy.

A bouquet of green cymbidium orchids, vendela roses, kermits, viburnum and gorgeous green skimmia. A softer approach for the second bouquet: white phlox, white freesia and peach roses. A simple and classic bouquet of yellow stock, white lisianthus and japhet orchids.

Spring 2010

Fresh & Green Flowers on Hill Avenue Tel: (306) 586-1911 3414 Hill Ave., Regina, SK 44

fineweddingsregina

REAL WEDDINGS

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JEANNE

KIM McKECHNEY /,

2

August 1, 2009

keeping cows in and husbands out!).

Perhaps the most memorable little wedding detail was my shoes. I found a fantastically perfect pair of red patent heels from Le Château that I convinced my bridesmaids to don with me. When they peeked out from under my Mikella dress at the ceremony I could hear an audible gasp from the congregation. Later when we made our grand entrance at my family cottage the first cry from the crowd was “show us the shoes!”

The backyard of the cottage stood in for a ballroom on our wedding night, protected from the elements by an eggshell-white tent. Jeweltoned flowers, soft-glowing candles and carefully strung white lights provided just the right ambience for the evening. But what we loved most was the basket of flip-flops encouraging guests to “feel free to kick off your shoes,” the candy table of gummies and licorice, and the homemade buttertart favours from the local farmer’s market that offered our guests the comfort of a simple night out at the beach.

With the sun setting on our backyard ballroom we shared our first dance to “The Way I Am” by Ingrid Michaelson. As the lyrics reached the line “I love the way you call me baby,” I thought about the million times before that Kim had called me baby...and how thankful I was that I would hear it a million times more.

Few moments in life are more exhilarating and terrifying at the same time than standing at the front of a church surrounded by all the most important people in your life. Our ceremony was moving along perfectly until I felt my soon-to-be husband playfully tickle the bottom of the ring finger on my right hand. His wide grin hinted that he was having a little fun with me, preying on our fears that the pressures of the day would render us unable to tell our left from right. I began to giggle uncontrollably! Soon friends and family joined along, filling the church with laughter. There was no better place to express such joy, and no better way to start our married life together.

Nine months earlier Kim and I got engaged in the Qu’Appelle Valley near my family cottage on Katepwa Lake. The cottage has become our much-loved summer-weekend oasis, and neither of us could picture getting married anywhere else. Our photographer, Michelle Strawford of fotobella, masterfully captured the beauty of the area as we guided her through the valley to our favourite places, which included a charming stone house, an old iron bridge and a gorgeous hillside spot overlooking the lake.

Michelle allowed us to be ourselves and have fun throughout the photo shoot. She didn’t even miss a beat when the trio of mischievous groomsmen took it upon themselves to test the power of a nearby electric fence during the middle of the photo session (sufficient power, by the way, for

Spring 2010

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fineweddingsregina

RESOURCES Photography: fotobella 540-5268 Cake: Papillon Cakes Caterer: Wallnuts Expressive Catering (Regina) & Sandpipers Dining Room (Katepwa) Flowers: Fresh & Green Flowers on Hill

Avenue 586-1911 Rentals: A1 Rentals Wedding Dress: Jenny’s Bridal Boutique (Saskatoon) Tux Rentals: Mallabar Apparels Rings: Birks Jewelers Hair: Crimson Hair Design Make-Up: Blush Beauty Bar Spring 2010

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Making wedding entertainment worry-free

PHOT OGRAPHY: VIE NNA DI RUSCIO

By Terry Keenan, Thumpers Entertainment Ltd.

“Wow! We’re getting married! Now what do we do?”

Spring 2010

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W

ell, you could look to wedding coordinators, event planners, magazine articles and books for the answer—but the best way to find out is to call Thumpers Entertainment. We specialize in making the most memorable part of your special day entertaining for your guests and worry-free for you.

There are plenty of ways to entertain your guests at the reception. You could go with a disc-jockey service, hire a piano player or a live band, or even set up a karaoke machine.

They’re all popular options. Ultimately, the choice comes down to what sort of mood you want to set and what type of entertainment best suits your guests.

At Thumpers Entertainment, we start helping a couple plan by gathering their insights and ideas. What sort of reception will it be?

Will it be formal or informal? Will there be dancing? What kinds of music do your friends and family most like to dance to? Do you favour a particular genre? Tell us, and we’ll tailor our entertainment offering to your and your guests’ preferences.

Hiring an entertainment service

Ask the most important questions first.

Questions pertaining to cost or the types of music available are very important, but won’t really give you a great sense of what the entertainment company can do for you: most companies can supply any and every kind of music, and pricing is more or less consistent across the industry.

No, the important questions to ask are things like: “How long has the company been in business?” “Do you take requests?” “Do you use professional equipment?” “What happens if something breaks down?” “How much time do you need for set-up?” “Is there a contract?” “Will your staff conduct themselves— and dress—appropriately for the occasion?”

There are no stupid questions. This is one of the biggest, most important occasions of your life. It’s got to be right, so ask for and get what you want.

What sort of entertainment should I choose?

There are as many answers to this question as there are couples. An entertainment company must be flexible in order to offer services that cater to a wide spectrum of interests.

Spring 2010

PHOTOGRAPHY: VIEN NA DI RUSCIO

That sounds simple enough, but is it? Pruning roses sounds simple, too, but when it’s your prize-winning roses at stake, you hire a top-notch gardener. You should approach hiring an entertainment service the same way.

There are no second chances at the reception to get it right!

Thumpers Entertainment provides many entertainment packages and tailors its service to your needs. We take pride in giving our customers the flexibility of choice to make their evening a memorable one.

What sort of entertainment company should I choose?

I have found that many of the established, larger companies have great training programs for newer entertainers. They also usually have a group of veterans that serve as a great resource for teaching the new people the proper way to handle the biggest night of your life. On the other hand, some of the smaller companies provide a more intimate service and can spend more time concentrating on your function.

How far in advance should I book?

question. There are plenty of companies that provide excellent service. The larger companies tend to book up the quickest, especially for long-weekend events. When you have decided on what sort of entertainment you require, you should book as far in advance as possible.

At Thumpers, the ideal booking would be a year in advance for a summer weekend wedding, and we recommend 18 months in advance for weddings happening on a long weekend. To get the company you want for your date, book as soon as you can.

Now go get ’em! And be sure to make lots of requests!

Thumpers Entertainment Regina Beach, SK (306) 729-2276 www.thumpersent.com

This is an excellent, and very important, 49

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Kleins Food Mart 255 Broadway Ave E. 757-3354

When you need to look your best!

We clean and press wedding dresses for that important day and we also have a full time seamstress on staff to alter your gown if need be. After that special day, we offer cleaning and preservation of your gown and keepsakes.

All drycleaning, laundry, leather/suede cleaning and repairs/alterations are done at our main location situated at 1866 McIntyre Street.

Belgian

Kleins Food Mart 873 Argyle St N. 924-0838 Kools Confectionary Sherwood & Lewvan 585-6657 Something 4U 2318 Assiniboine Ave E. 789-9829 Quality Hotel 1717 Victoria Ave. 569-4656 Pharmasave Drugs Gardiner Park Mall 791-9780 The Soleman 4135 Rochdale Blvd.

924-2010 Pasqua Hospital Gift Shop Wascana Hospital 766-5400 Okey Dokey's White City 781-2613

MAIN PLANT 1866 McIntyre St. 522-3752

C L E A N E R S A N D TA I L O R S

V IENNA DI R US CIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

Owned and Operated by the Schmidt Brothers Since 1994

Spring 2010

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Realtors help first-time homebuyers keep their feet on the ground

BY MEAGEN THOMAS

B

uying your first home is sort of like a ride at a fair: it’s thrilling, fun, but also a little frightening. Your head will be spinning with unfamiliar terms, questions about financing, uncertainty over the buying process—you need an advisor who will help you keep your feet on the ground!

You can’t do better than a qualified, experienced realtor. Realtors know their stuff: they know the local and regional market, they do their homework on properties for sale, they keep an eye on comparative prices, they make sure you don’t pay more than you should, and—in most cases—they know (and care a lot) about you.

“It’s important to establish trust with the realtor you use,” says Sutton Group realtor Melany Maisonneuve. “Good realtors don’t just talk; they listen. Ask questions; good realtors are eager to educate buyers! When they know what you want and can afford, they can match you with the best the market has to offer.”

Now, more than ever, having a realtor is crucial. Regina’s market is as hot as it was five years ago; properties are selling in hours, not weeks or months. Without a realtor, you might find yourself 10th in line to make an offer, and without the expert advice to know whether that property is worth it or even right for you.

As your guide and advisor, a realtor can be a particularly helpful to couples getting parental or extended family help with financing their first home.

“I encourage parents who want to be part of the process to be a part of it from the start,” says Maisonneuve. “If they’re included from the beginning, they’ll know as much as the buyers do in terms of what the market has to offer in the buyer’s price range.”

Sometimes, Maisonneuve says, parents of buyers may have different expectations and, occasionally, very strong opinions about location, price or even the features of a given property.

“Suppose a family would like to see their children buy a house at the top or even a little higher than what they can, or want, to pay.

Even if the family is willing to put more money in, the couple needs to be able to sustain that extra expense as other expenses— Spring 2010

just as a growing family—become part of the picture,” Maisonneuve explains.

A realtor can shed light on more than just dollars-and-cents value, too. They’ll steer buyers clear of properties that can’t be accurately valued, like private-sale homes, or even properties that may have a suspect history.

“Realtors do their homework; they know a property’s transaction history, its market value and whether it would be a good—or prudent—investment for a couple just starting out,” Maisonneuve says.

An accredited realtor has professional training, access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and years of experience buying and selling homes for people from all walks of life.

With a realtor as your guide to the housing market, buyers can expect more thrills than chills along the way to homeownership. Buying a house is a life-changing experience; your realtor is there to serve you and your interests every step of the way.

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SUTTON GROUP - RESULTS REALTY

Melany Maisonneuve (306) 347-1955

fineweddingsregina

REAL WEDDINGS

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Spring 2010

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JACQUELINE /,

Randy and I first met in 2005 while completing our Kinesiology degrees at the University of Regina. We had been in classes together before, but it wasn’t until a close friend pointed out Randy’s tendency to pay more attention to me than the lecture that he really caught my eye.

We spent some time getting to know one another and began dating shortly after, quickly falling in love.

When people ask you to close your eyes and imagine a place where you are content and at peace, I automatically envision sitting with Randy on the dock of my parent’s cottage. This is why Randy’s proposal was so fitting and heartfelt.

In August 2008, after we had spent the day at the lake, my parents joined us after supper. My Dad was acting strange and continually asked if anything exciting had happened during the day. Unbeknownst to me, Randy had spoken with him and had asked his permission to marry me the day before. As darkness swept over the valley and the Spring 2010

RANDY ORBAN ! %)#

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September 5, 2009

stars emerged one by one, Randy stopped me along a torch-lit path at the edge of the lake. He hugged me and told me how much he loved me, and in my mind I knew. Suddenly he was on one knee asking me to marry him. Between tears of complete happiness, I of course said, “Yes!” Randy and I began planning our wedding shortly after our engagement. We both agreed that the most important aspect of our “big day” was to be surrounded by family and friends. Another meaningful piece of the puzzle was to create a day that not only would we enjoy and remember, but our guests would as well. With the help of family, close friends, and many great vendors we accomplished this. On September 5, 2009, I married the man of my dreams and my best friend. Everything went off without a hitch and our wedding was perfect, a day neither of us will ever forget.

Our many thanks to all of those who made it so special!

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RESOURCES Bridal Gown: Wedding Trendz Bridesmaids Dresses: Debra Dee Suits: Moores Hair: The Room Makeup: Tanda Spa (306) 586-1321 Stationary: Jennifer Ulmer Photography: Tag Photo Transportation: Wrapture Limousine Flowers: The Flower Hut Rings: Victoria Jewelers Reception: Conexus Arts Centre Music: Joboo Sound Rentals: Creative Touch Weddings

(306) 949-8152

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V IENNA DI R USCIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

By Amy Nelson-Mile

Miller points out that punctuality is key for a smoothly run day that provides enjoyment for both the bridal party and the guests.

Schedules met mean fewer jangled nerves for the wedding party, reliable event times for guests who may have taken time off from work, and even a more enjoyable meal—because it’s being served on time. Drivers for Classic Limousine can help to ensure this punctuality.

Miller says, “We start by picking up the groom’s party and taking them to the location of the service. Next we pick up the bride’s group and take them to the service.

From that point the vehicle stays with the group throughout the service and photographs right up to the time of the reception.”

Nothing adds ease and elegance to a wedding day like a limousine, and few limousine providers can match the experience of Classic Limousine Service Ltd. of Regina, which, in addition to other corporate and private services, provides transportation to hundreds of weddings a year.

The wedding organizer has the choice of several kinds of vehicles, ranging from sedans, Spring 2010

which could be used to transport parents or just the newlyweds, to 10-passenger stretch Lincolns or the much larger 14-passenger SUV stretch limos.

Glenn Miller, who has owned Classic Limousine since 1994, says, “Hiring a limousine helps to ensure that the wedding party gets to where they need to go, when they need to be there, throughout the day.”

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The limousine service is a huge factor in the bridal party’s ability to get things done in a relaxed manner between the ceremony and the reception. “We take them to get their photos taken,” Miller says, “and if there are multiple locations for the photos, such as the photographer’s studio and a park with several featured areas, we drive them to each.” Members of the group who aren’t needed for each photo can also return to the limousine once they are finished with their shots.

After the photographs are completed, this is also the time when Classic Limousine’s bevfineweddingsregina

V IENNA DI R USCIO P H OTOG RA PH Y

erage service comes in handy. Miller explains that they are licensed to provide alcoholic beverages, and they provide this service “pretty much on a cost-recovery basis.” The mix, ice, glasses and napkins are all included with the bar service. Members of the bridal party can rest comfortably and chat while they wait.

Miller says that after the photography is done, the drivers will often give the bridal party a little cruise to help them relax before the reception. This is a time when everyone can just sit back and unwind or practice their upcoming speeches.

The drivers time this cruise so they get the wedding party to the reception at least 15 minutes before the meal. The service is concluded by returning for the bride and groom at the end of the evening reception for a relaxing trip to their final stop of the day.

Miller urges people to book Classic Limousine's services as soon as possible. “We’re booking pretty well a year in advance,” he says. The company’s busiest time tends to be from the May to the October long weekends, but he says, “We already have bookings into December, 2011.” Although in the off-season booking six months ahead is often possible, Miller advises “in this case the early bird gets the worm of choice.”

Miller says that Classic Limousine designs its service around the bridal party’s needs. In addition to the all-day packages available, there are hourly services (with a minimum rental time during the busy season).

Classic Limousine Services 1362 McIntyre St., Regina SK S4R 2M8 (306) 789-5400 www.classiclimoregina.com Spring 2010

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REAL HONEYMOONS

SHAWNEE EIDT

/, $*)!2(**) %) Spring 2010

BRENNAN BOYKO

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On October 2, 2009, after more than 20 hours of travel and transit, we finally arrived at the first of three islands in breathtaking French Polynesia.

Moorea is a short 10-minute flight from the island of Tahiti, where we had landed after an 8 1/2-hour flight from Los Angeles. Moorea is a mountainous paradise—the ocean meets the land which abruptly rises to elevations of more than 1,200 metres. We stayed at the beautiful Intercontinental Resort & Spa Moorea, in a beach bungalow. We only had to walk outside of our room to be on the sand and ready for a day at the beach.

We could snorkel right in front of our bungalow, and spent many lazy days relaxing in the sun after the hard work we had put in preparing for our amazing wedding day.

Brennan and I would take long walks down the road that encircled the island, trying new places for lunch.

We had many highlights in Moorea. One of the best experiences was leaving the lagoon surrounding Moorea to go whale watching.

My brave husband jumped in and swam with a humpback whale and her calf—we even have the underwater photos to prove it!

We headed back to the lagoon and anchored the boat not too far from the shore in front of the resort. Large rubber squares with long black tails began to appear—the sting rays!

We were able to pet and feed them. I never took my eyes off of their long black tails, but they were so gentle, and as curious about us as we were about them. As we began to feed the sting rays, we became aware of another curious animal that came around. Blacktipped reef sharks swam around us the entire time, but surprisingly we were not scared and never felt in danger.

Another day on Moorea was spent on a Jeep tour going up to various scenic lookout points in the mountainous terrain and seeing beautiful bays named after Captain James Cook and other early navigators of the Pacific. Our day ended with a trip to a Tahitian black pearl shop. I did not come home empty-handed!

After Moorea, it was off to the beautiful atoll of Rangiroa in the Tuomotu islands. Our resort, the romantic and beautiful Kia Ora, was located on a narrow expanse of land with the infamous overwater bungalows branching out from a dock that led away from the shore.

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We stayed at the resort one night before heading out to the Kia Ora Sauvage.

The Sauvage is the definition of paradise—a small deserted island that accommodates only four couples at a time. Think Robinson Crusoe! No electricity, only oil lamps to light your way at night, and nothing to distract you by day aside from the coral beaches, the bluest water and the occasional reef shark that swims by! We snorkeled and watched our guide catch fish with only a harpoon or net.

We ate what they caught—mussels and parrot fish! At night, the cook would sing as our guide strummed the ukulele. After dinner, we would walk back to our bungalow on the beach under star-filled skies.

Bora Bora was the last stop of our French Polynesian honeymoon. We stayed in an overwater bungalow at the Le Maitai Polyne59

sia resort. Each day we spent on the deck of our bungalow, cooling off in the water from our own convenient dock. It was just a short walk to many excellent restaurants on the island. Most restaurants also offered a pickup and drop-off service, which was an added touch if you wanted to have dinner off of the resort. We decided to take another lagoon excursion, feeding our friends the sting rays and swimming with more sharks. This time we ventured into the “lagoonarium” and swam with a nine-foot lemon shark! I still can’t believe we did that!

I know someday we will return to French Polynesia, but it won’t ever be soon enough.

Her islands are the most beautiful and romantic—a must for any honeymooner who has the time to travel the long distances to get to this remote area of the Pacific. fineweddingsregina

Cypher Tanning Lotion by California Tan – the ultimate tanning lotion that contains special ingredients for the deepest tan and allows the tan to deepen further, hours after tanning.

Matahari Dark Sexy Tan by Matahari. This Step 2 dark triple bronzer will help you get out of your tanning plateau.

Magnifico Lotion Moisturizer by Design Skin®. This antioxidant and nutrient-laden emulsion improves and revitalizes your skin’s appearance and texture.

Norvell Sun Tanning Solutions – Have one of Brown Sugar’s technicians apply a “sunless” air brush tan for an instant temporary tan. One application lasts eight to 10 days.

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Gaia's Aromatherapy Balms – fine French lavender, Bulgarian rose and jasmine samback to provide peace and sensuality for your relaxing honeymoon.

AcclaimTM High Pressure "No Burn" bed.

Exclusively available at Brown Sugar Tanning, Suite D-2100 Dewdney Ave., Regina, SK, Tel: (306) 347-8266

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Prima Donna Kensington in bougainvilla color is this summer's attention grabber.

The passionate fuchsia looks very exotic and allows the fine embroidery to sparkle. Do you dare?

Prima Donna Edoras in blue gel is subtle and seductive. Something blue for your trousseau?

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Seafolly swimwear exclusively at Thee Lingerie Shoppe. Separates and tankinis available.

Excellent choice of swimwear available all year long.

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Empreinte Thalia - essential beauty for larger cup sizes. Treat yourself!

This luxury lingerie brings out the Prima Donna in every woman. Available in four basic colours.

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All products exclusively available at Thee Lingerie Shoppe, 1858 Hamilton Street, Regina SK, (306) 359.3373 fineweddingsregina

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TRAVIS GLASCOCK

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For our honeymoon we decided that we would go somewhere that I had been before but Travis hadn’t: Las Vegas. It turned out to be the perfect choice, because our time there was both exciting and relaxing.

Many people go to Las Vegas to spend their time at the casinos and in the clubs. We’re not gamblers, so we went for the shows and the shopping!

We found a WestJet vacation package that was very reasonable—the flight, hotel, and one show were all included. We arrived in Las Vegas on September 14 and we had a wonderful time right from the beginning.

We stayed at the Monte Carlo Hotel, which is right on the strip. It is very elegant and luxurious, beautifully decorated, with largerthan-life statues everywhere.

The first thing we did when we arrived at the hotel was upgrade to a larger suite. It was incredible—huge! The 1,000-square-foot haven included a massive living room, two bathrooms, and a sensational master suite. The bathtub could fit four people, and all the fixtures were marble. It was the perfect place to relax in style!

While we were there Vegas was super hot—in the high 30s consistently. The weather was similar to a pressure cooker! To begin our days we would grab breakfast in the hotel casino, then go down to the hotel pool to soak up some sun. Floating in the moat on our tubes and sitting in the wave pool consumed most of our mornings, until we were ready for lunch.

The food was wonderful! There was a great restaurant called Yolos that had the best Mexican food that I have found outside of Mexico. We went there several times. The waiters would make the guacamole right at the table.

We also went to eat at the Stratosphere Hotel, which is the last hotel on the strip. It has several restaurants, but we ate at Roxy’s Diner, which has a ’50s theme. The waitresses wear poodle skirts and the waiters are dressed as greasers. The food is casual—burgers and sandwiches—but it’s interesting because the waiters and waitresses sing and dance. You can’t even get a job there unless you pass the audition!

Even though Vegas is known for its shows, one doesn't fully comprehend what that means until you go. There are performances everywhere! We went to the Cirque du Soleil Spring 2010

show KA in the MGM Grand Hotel. It was magnificent. I’ve seen other Cirque du Soleil shows and this was by far the best.

Along the strip there are also many free performances throughout the day. These are a must-see, since every show is different. Each show seemed to reflect the theme of the hotel in one way or another.

At the Bellagio we saw the Bellagio Fountains. This is a gorgeous show that has water dancing to classical music. At the MGM Grand we saw the lions in a glass cage by the casino. At the front of the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino we saw The Sirens of TI, a singing-and-dancing show featuring female sirens who entice male pirates. It’s spectacular, and it’s really well-done—it even involves a full-sized ship sinking in front of the hotel!

Apart from the casinos, the hotels have wonderful shopping too. We went to the Venetian to shop at the Grand Canal Shoppes.

This is a shopping centre with canals such as you would see in Venice. You can even go in a gondola around the mall. Caesars Palace 63

Forum Shops and the Wynn Hotel also had magnificent shopping.

In the evenings, we spent much of our time walking up and down the strip. For those who don't like to walk, there are tourist buses that stop every few blocks. If someone prefers to rent a vehicle, Las Vegas is a hot spot for luxury cars rentals. Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Corvettes: you name it, they have it.

At night it’s so beautiful with all the lights on the hotels and the music playing on the streets. There are pictures of Las Vegas at night, but they don’t do it justice.

There are so many things one can do on a trip to Las Vegas, but we chose to have a more relaxing honeymoon. We took lots of naps in the sun and in our massive, massive suite!

All in all, Las Vegas was perfect. It was hot and relaxing, and there were tons of places to go and more than enough shows to see. The beauty of Las Vegas is that every time you go it feels like the first time. For us, it is just the first of many honeymoons we will share together. fineweddingsregina

W W W . I N S P I R A T I O N B Y L I N E L L . C O M

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White buttercream wedding cake fresh flower arrangement.

Chocolate, vanilla and butterscotch are some of the fun flavours you can have for wedding cupcakes.

Black-and-white tiered cake with exotic flowers.

Three-tiered white cake with violet and purple roses.

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Classic traditional cake with gold leaves.

Three-tier wedding cake with white roses on top, symbolic horseshoe for luck and icing rose decorations.

Frosted in buttercream, piped with swirls and decorated with fresh fruit.

White calla lilies add a sophisticated touch to a white cake.

REAL HONEYMOONS

MEGAN

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DUSTIN ZMETANA

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Paradise is defined as a place of ideal beauty or loveliness. That is St. Lucia.

On January 9 we landed on this small Caribbean island for our two-week honeymoon. We were so delighted to be leaving behind snow and -40 weather! The instant we stepped off the plane our stress from everyday life went completely down and we were ready to relax and enjoy each other.

St. Lucia is a popular honeymoon destination because it is filled with many romantic retreats and is considered one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands. From the airport we were taken by shuttle bus to our resort, Sandals Regency Golf Resort and Spa. The moment we arrived we felt special; the people working at the resort were there for us!

Sandals Regency is all-inclusive and for couples only. The resort covers 200 acres on a hillside overlooking the sea. We were taken to our ocean-view suite, which happened to be located on the tip of a bluff. Every morning we would wake up, look out the window and be refreshed by the amazing views. We were away from the main resort, so we had quiet and privacy. In close proximity to our suite was a pool, fitness centre and Italian restaurant. This laidback pool we liked to think was a well-kept secret treasure!

On a typical day we would get up and go for a light workout, then head to Armando’s, the Italian restaurant, for breakfast. However, if we wanted breakfast in bed, all we had to do was put our order on our door the night before. You name it, they had it—and if it wasn’t on the menu, if we asked, they would make it! We truly felt like we were on Cloud 9!

After breakfast we would lounge by the pool or make our way down to the beach to play in the waves. I have to mention that this pool had the most comfy beach chairs I have ever lain in! We were mingling with couples who were sparing no expense to have the vacation of their dreams. Everyone around us had butlers, and didn’t have to lift a finger if they didn’t want to. Bartenders would come around and you could place your drink order with them, then around 11 a.m. ladies would come around to pour you fresh water flavoured with pineapple, lemon, mango; they said it was to keep you healthy! Then to top it off, after a day of lying in the sun, icecream treats were brought around for a nice afternoon delight.

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In the evening we had our choice of dining at many different types of restaurants. This resort was so elegant that it only offered dinein restaurants at supper. I would have to say our favourite was La Toc, a 5-Star Diamond Award-winning gourmet restaurant in an intimate elegant setting that features the finest French food.

We also dined at restaurants featuring International, Caribbean, Southwestern, Japanese, Italian, and good old Irish pub food. It was wonderful: I got to go on a romantic date with my husband for 14 continuous days!

After a five-course meal we would make it down to the main area to listen to the sweet sound of Caribbean music and dance the night away. On returning to our room for the night we would find our bed already turned down for us. Sometimes there would be rose petals! Being at such a beautiful place you cannot help but feel so in love.

The Red Lane spa was an amazing full-service spa with many options for couples’ treat69

ments. We started off our spa visit by plunging into the hot-water tub, followed immediately by jumping into the cold pool to close up our pores. We then enjoyed an hour couple’s massage while drinking champagne. We found ourselves continually using the spa amenities for the duration of our stay, one of our favourites being the steam room.

While on our trip we adventured on two tours, which was a great way to experience island life and culture. Zip-lining through the rain forest was a fantastic rush, and we got to see the beauty of land from above. St. Lucia is such a lush green island, full of beautiful flowers and vegetation. For our second tour, we took a catamaran around part of the island to the small village of Soufriere, where we got to see the famous Pitons, botanical gardens, and Diamond Falls, and have lunch in a local village. On the way home from the tour we stopped to snorkel and enjoy the marine life.

This is only a tiny glimpse into our time spent at St. Lucia. After all the work that goes into the planning of a wedding, this trip was made for us to relax and enjoy the start of our lives together!

The journey was definitely one that we will never forget. fineweddingsregina

BES T

WESTERN

SEVEN OAKS INN

From the walk down the aisle to the final farewell, the Best Western Seven Oaks Inn is there to see that every detail of your wedding is taken care of.

A banquet room with the choice of a plated service or buffet dinner.

(Provided that the total number of meal orders exceeds basic rental only a $25.00 set up fee is charged on for the hall.)

Make a reservation for our “Oaks Gourmet Sunday Brunch� and we will reserve tables in one area for your group.

Book your wedding function for minimum of 100 guests with a full dinner service and for an additional $2.50 per person, we will provide you with a wedding cake of your design.

(Up to three layer. Value up to $600.00.)

Complimentary guest room for bride and groom on the night after their wedding, with an option to upgrade to a suite at an additional minimal rate.

Call our Wedding Specialist: (306) 757-0121 or Email: Karen@bwsevenoaks.com

www.bestwester nsevenoaks.com Spring 2010

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