January/February 2023 Coeur d'Alene Living Local

Give us an impossible build site ...and we will Mr. Miagi that shit.

must reads

A WEDDING AT A WINERY

Northwest wineries and vineyards make the ideal backdrop for that special day

A SIMPLE WEDDING VENUE AT HOME Transforming your backyard into a wedding oasis

ENJOY A COUPLES GETAWAY TO VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Old-World charm sets the scene for romance

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COURTESY PHOTOS: Wired2Learn Academy, Fairmont Empress, Scott Lakey, Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association, La Tea Da

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Living Local magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed freely throughout Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Post Falls, Rathdrum, Spokane Valley, Sandpoint, Bonners Ferry and Dover Bay. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Living Local magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Living Local magazine is produced and published by Like Media, and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

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CLEAN ENERGY for a

CLEAN WORLD

Going solar has a wide range of benefits. Whether your focus is economic, environmental, or personal, solar is a clean renewable process that uses the most natural resource – the sun – while keeping money in your pocket.

Meet Steve Russo, Publisher

Executive Director steve@like-media.com

A New Year of Opportunity

A new year brings with it new opportunities for growth , new and exciting challenges, and change. January 1 lets us hit the reset button, looking to the future, not to the past. 2022, the good and the bad, is now behind us, and it’s time to look ahead at what we hope to see happen in our lives throughout this new year.

We are proud to share with you our first issue of Coeur d’Alene Living Local for 2023! You’re certain to find some inspiration while reading through its pages.

If a wedding is in your or a loved one’s future, we have some wonderful articles to help get you started on planning the big day. From backyard weddings to weddings at a winery or vineyard, to makeup and gown ideas, to tips on how to get your mind and body wedding ready, you’ll find it all in the pages of Coeur d’Alene Living Local. If you’re looking to take a romantic getaway,

our travel article takes you to Victoria, British Columbia.

Highlights of this issue include the man behind the murals, Scott Lakey, who has been coloring Coeur d’Alene and surrounding areas with his incredible graffiti artwork. We take a glimpse into Wired2Learn™ Academy and the work they do to serve children in the community, and beyond, with learning disabilities. Learn more about the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association and the positive impact it has on our downtown businesses and city. And of course, you’ll find much more as you flip through the pages of Coeur d’Alene Living Local.

Thank you for letting us share the wonderful stories and inspiring people of Coeur d’Alene with you.

about the cover

As the holiday season has passed, and the new year has arrived, we’re sure there were many proposals that took place between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Love is in the air, and preparations will soon be underway for that special day. Whether you are the bride-to-be or a friend or family member of someone who will soon be saying their “I dos,” there’s nothing like witnessing a couple in love.

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MAN BEHIND THE MURALS

by RACHEL KELLY

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A SIMPLE WEDDING VENUE AT

Transforming your backyard into a wedding oasis

So many fond memories take place in our yards. As children, we climb the branches of our favorite trees, or run barefoot across the cool grass. Having your wedding at home brings those memories full circle. Truly, what could be more intimate and romantic? But as the big day gets closer and closer, you might find transforming that space a little more difficult than you originally thought. Don’t sweat it! Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your yard for the big day to make it all you dream it to be, while not being too labor intensive.

The first thing to think about, before you even start setting up, is the garden itself. Nothing really much has to be done in backyard spaces that already have lots of green. No special color is needed. If anything, the beauty of the grass or simplicity of the trees will speak for themselves. The only real thing to do is to clean it up a bit. Clear off dead foliage, put in new mulch, and trim flowers and hedges. Your ceremony can be focused around your favorite spaces, such as the old

apple tree, and the ceremony itself can be held in between two large flower pots. Nothing much has to be done to nature to make the effect enchanting, so don’t worry too much about perfection in the yard.

One of the problems that everyone experiences when holding events in large open spaces is distinguishing space—where to gather, eat, dance, and hold the ceremony. Pick a distinguishing factor from your yard. Maybe it’s a favorite tree or a patch of rose bushes. Maybe there’s some lovely ivy growing along the fence. Whatever it is, have that be the backdrop to the ceremony. Here you can place an archway, two groups of chairs to create the aisle, and an aisle runner. Rugs work well as aisle runners because they sit well in the grass without shoes going through them—and look stunning. Consider renting a dance floor for dancing, and designate tables and chairs close by for the reception. Large white tents (with heaters for evening weddings) or runner lights strung across the yard and trees can both designate a reception space, or unify

COEUR D’ALENE LIVING LOCAL

THE BEAUTY OF THE GRASS OR SIMPLICITY OF

THE TREES WILL SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.

activities separated around the yard. Distinguishing space makes for natural gathering places for friends and family to keep themselves happy as they wait for the main event, or keep themselves occupied while the photographer takes family and wedding party photos.

If you have some space after deciding on your ceremony and reception, or if you’ve decided to not do a reception at all, consider filling up the outer edges of the yard with transitory spaces. This will be where people hang out as they transition from one activity to another, and where they’ll connect if they’re not watching the dance floor. Things like cocktail tables and a bar would go here. Other ideas for transitory spaces include couches and board games, yard games, a picture booth, or a signature/gift table.

With all that’s going on and a large yard full of people, the last finishing touch would be to make sure your guests know where to go and what’s going on there. Traditionally this might mean handing out a schedule of sorts upon entry, placing friends at the entrance to guide guests, and placing meal placards at the reception table(s). In a yard space, knowing what to do and where to go is achieved by clever little signs and strategic placement of activities. The cake, for instance, might be right beside the reception area, and the meal might be advertised by small sandwich boards. Signs meant to direct could be as simple as chalkboards or as complicated as

arrows labeled and docked on lantern posts. There can be a lot of formality at weddings, with very little or a lot of activity. No guest will be in any way eager to offend, which can make people hesitant. Clear communication, signs with directions markers, and activities that clearly hedge in the yard space will clear up this small snag in what will otherwise be a clearly laid-out event.

Keeping these things in mind, do whatever makes this day uniquely you! Allow it to be as relaxed, as organized, as traditional or untraditional as you want it to be. The dance floor and the ceremony space could be one in the same, as they are both platforms. The reception space could be in a separate long tent with seating arrangements, or organized according to a smattering of circular tables on the outer edge of the ceremony space. You could have a large meal served at the tables or served buffet style. Or you could scrap the meal entirely and serve small appetizers and drinks. Whatever you feel comfortable with!

It’s your wedding, and you should both be the happiest people there. If you’re having fun, then your guests will too!

Nothing much has to be done to nature to make the effect enchanting, so don’t worry too much about perfection in the yard.

flowers for your wedding day

Adding that special touch

by RACHEL KELLY

Finding the perfect bouquet and centerpieces for your wedding can be a chore or a joy; it really depends on how you look at it. But it goes without saying that flowers add something special. They add color, fragrance, personality and beauty. You don’t need a lot to make a big statement, and they can either provide a pop of excitement or be an elegant accompaniment. Flowers bring together disjointed spaces and make those not-so-attractive spots unnoticeable. They fill up empty decorations, spruce up glass jars, and provide personality to white tablecloths. They hint of simplicity, dance of elegance, and speak of promises. Most importantly, bouquets give your hands something to hold on to as you walk down the aisle! Flowers are an absolute must. Whether you assemble your own flowers, buy from a florist, or pick your flowers from your garden, here are six tips to make sure that your flowers have that special touch.

When picking a florist.

When picking a florist, go with someone you know. Usually this means local, but sometimes it means choosing a friend with experience. If you’re asking for help with flowers, you probably don’t know what you’re doing. This is why choosing someone you know becomes so important, because you can trust them; a florist who knows you can pick out flowers that are not only in season but that will work just right for you.

Go local.

Another good choice is to go with a local farm to provide your flowers. These flowers are sure to be fresh, fragrant, and perfectly in season. What’s more, they’ll most likely be full of color. This means that little adornment or garnish will be needed. Holding a bouquet of bright yellow daffodils is sure to provide a joyous air to any spring ceremony, or a floating calla lily a simple beauty to any centerpiece.

Think ahead.

Think ahead when deciding and/or putting together your flower arrangements. Flowers and décor are one of those things that can be decided upon ahead of time. Ninety percent of the arrangements should be done a day before the wedding. If the flowers are refrigerated, they are still sure to be fresh and gloriously aromatic on the day of. If it’s not possible to do everything the day before, then make sure to separate the flower bundles and decide on the arrangements beforehand to reduce stress. The last thing you want to do when you’re getting ready is having to decide on how the flowers should be arranged and displayed.

Think small.

Think small when deciding on multiple flowers in one bouquet or centerpiece. The accompanying flowers should be smaller than the center flower, so as to complement rather than overwhelm the overall presentation. Examples include heather blossoms and baby’s breath. Flowers don’t take much to stun, and nor does it take much to overwhelm the senses.

Less is more.

Less is more when deciding on flowers. Choose one overarching flower and allow that to be the common theme in all your arrangements. Flowers such as tulips, roses, hydrangeas, chrysanthemums, calla lilies and dahlias are common vibrant flowers that will really make a statement. This can mean that your bouquet could be one color, and your table arrangements another, while all being unified by the flower.

Tying it all together can be done using simple looped grass, swatches of muslin, or wrapped lace or string. Any material can be used to bring the flowers together, as long as it’s tight and holds them closely together. Sloping or disjointed flowers are pretty much the only thing that will ruin the effect. Pins are often put through the underside heads of larger flowers to keep them from drooping, while smaller flower bunches are trimmed of their lower offshoots to allow them to be tightly tied. The last touch is making sure all the stems are cut the same length at the bottom of the bouquet.

Tie it all together.

Empowering Students with

LEARNING DISABILITIES

Wired2Learn Academy helping to create positive, independent learners

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

After spending 15 years working as an educational therapist in Post Falls, providing skill-based remediation to children with learning disabilities (LD), Alyssa Pukkila was inspired to create a new—and improved—learning environment, where children with learning disabilities would receive the remediation they needed at school.

“Despite many wonderful, compassionate teachers working in the school system, I noticed that these bright, capable students with LD were frustrated, depressed, and their self-advocacy was very bad. Many students with LD begin to feel like they are failures and not capable of academic success due to the mountain of poor grades and lack of success—despite a tremendous amount of effort,” recalls Alyssa. “In addition, there is a lack of understanding within the education system and among parents and the community about what is an LD, what causes an LD and what can be done to help children with LD.”

Alyssa’s answer to this? Wired2Learn Academy (W2LA), which she established in 2018. “I started W2LA to provide students with LD a learning environment that would empower [them] to remediate and become independent, eager learners.”

Wired2Learn Academy serves children from the greater Spokane and Coeur d’Alene area, and has also served students from other states such as California and Minnesota. All learning coaches (teachers) have degrees in psychology and specialize in learning disabilities, and cognitive and neuropsychology.

“All the academic work we do is through a therapeutic perspective, where we work on weak academic areas, encourage areas of strength, and allow students to practice using the strengthened areas of their brain in a highly engaging academic environment through project-based learning,” affirms Alyssa. “These children with LD are bright and capable, and we need to see their potential and help them reach their potential!”

The therapeutic school is set up to empower students with LD to change and grow their brains and to provide research-based

“All the academic work we do is through a therapeutic perspective, where we work on weak academic areas, encourage areas of strength, and allow students to practice using the strengthened areas of their brain.”

remediation and interventions to help grow W2LA students into positive, independent learners. This is done through “rewiring” the brain, known as neuroplasticity— the brain’s ability to form new neuropathways to rewire and restructure itself.

Parents of children with LD, who believe a specialized educational program could benefit their child, are encouraged to visit Wired2LearnAcademy.com. “After reading about our program, parents can call us to get further information and talk to us about their student.

From there, we schedule parent tours, [which] allow parents to see the academy in action, meet our learning coaches and talk to our students,” Alyssa shares. “The last step of the process is for a student to take a student visit, where he or she can meet us and see our program.”

Once the child is enrolled, both cognitive and academic testing is done, with the results assisting the staff in building an individualized program for the student. The student will attend the academy 8:30am to 4:10pm Monday through Friday.

“The most rewarding thing about helping children with … LD is watching a child blossom into a positive, excited, independent learner who is proud of the work they are doing. Watching them feel good about themselves. Watching the pride they feel in the work they have accomplished. This is absolutely the best part!” Alyssa smiles.

She goes on to share several heart-warming and inspiring stories of students who attended the academy: one

struggling student spent three years in the program and moved on to Post Falls High School, where she is now a straight-A student; another who came to W2LA with failing grades and after three years with W2LA is now back in traditional high school for his junior and senior years, earning all As and Bs; a graduate of W2LA who is now enrolled at the Coeur d’Alene Hockey Academy is taking advanced classes and earning all As and Bs.

Wired2Learn Foundation, which is a separate entity from Wired2Learn Academy, was set up to help students with learning differences receive the help and education they need through the academy, through grants. The foundation aims to raise awareness, and funds for scholarships, for under-served kids with learning differences. Their biggest fundraiser of the year is their immersive glow experience for all ages—Neon Jungle, which is held over two weekends in October.

According to the Wired2Learn Foundation Board, they are working on a fundraiser called Bike4Brains, which will consist of a family scavenger hunt on bikes throughout Coeur d’Alene. They are hoping to kick off this event for the first time this summer in conjunction with W2LA’s studentdriven fundraiser, the Midsummer Festival. All monies the students make go straight back to the students to help them purchase supplies for their projects in PBL. Additional fundraisers include Beer4Brains, a rare beer festival, which they are hoping to do again in the winter of 2024.

Alyssa wants parents of children with LD to know that there is hope; that children with LD have normal to gifted intelligence, and that more can be done to provide accommodations and teach these children to compensate for their cognitive weaknesses. “We need to help them strengthen their brains, to rewire their brains, so they can have a bright future.” And that’s the purpose of Wired2Learn Academy.

Wired2Learn Academy is located at 1800 North Highway 42 in Post Falls. To find out more about W2LA, visit Wired2LearnAcademy.com. To stay up to date on upcoming events, with proceeds benefiting students of W2LA, visit the Wired2Learn Foundation’s website at W2LFoundation.com.

“The most rewarding thing about helping children with … LD is watching the pride they feel in the work they have accomplished. ”

Teach er in the Spotlight

CHERRI HANSON

First Grade | Atlas Elementary School

by TAYLOR SHILLAM

“T

eaching is an intense, challenging endeavor, and yet one of the most rewarding things I have ever experienced,” shared Cherri Hanson, first grade teacher at Atlas Elementary.

Cherri spent 12 years teaching in Billings, Montana, before the 13 years she has spent in the Coeur d’Alene School District. The joy she has experienced while teaching is clear as she reflects on her career.

“There are so many rewards from teaching, but by far the best is teaching the kids to read,” she said. “I love seeing kids’ minds open up to the world of reading and giving them this gift they’ll have for the rest of their lives. The joy kids have when they realize they are reading is precious and priceless.”

Alongside the rewarding moments are the inevitable challenging times, particularly for teachers who faced the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“An experience that stands out the most to me as a teacher was March 13, 2020—the day of the COVID-19 shutdown,” Cherri recalled. “I never imagined that when I dismissed and hugged my students goodbye for the weekend that we would never see each other in person for the rest of the 2020 school year.”

Cherri said the experience taught her how quickly your entire life can change in an instant.

“Teachers had to adapt to unexpected conditions, teaching in unprecedented ways, while also being challenged to establish connections with students, families and colleagues,” she said. “The pandemic caused me to reflect in both my personal and professional life—so instead of passively taking what you have for granted, be grateful for it, and do whatever good you can with it.”

Cherri continues to apply what she’s learned and experienced in the classroom.

“In my classroom, I strive to teach children that making mistakes is a part of life and nobody is perfect,” she shared. “Never be afraid to make a mistake, because it’s the best learning experience. It grows your brain that much more—a reason to celebrate! Don’t we all want our brains to grow?”

Cherri encourages students to own the mistakes made by their actions, take responsibility to fix them, and learn from them.

Reflecting on her time as a teacher, Cherri says she’s laughed, cried, and worked harder than she ever thought she could.

“Some days, you’re trying to change the world, and some days you are really just trying to make it through the day,” she said. “Your heart is full, and your mind is packed with memories of kids who have changed your life. It’s just another day in the classroom!”

“THERE ARE SO MANY REWARDS FROM TEACHING, BUT BY FAR THE BEST IS TEACHING THE KIDS TO READ.”

by TAYLOR SHILLAM

STUDENTS IN

Student council is also what Nate enjoys most about school.

“Student council allows me to grow as a leader and get a taste of what it’s like to run and plan an organization,” he said. “It’s something I’m constantly looking forward to. I’m full of ideas to make CHS fun for all of the students who attend. I also look forward to aiding for my teacher, Mr. Graham, who I’ve had as a teacher in the past and aided for in previous years.”

Nate has applied to several colleges and is waiting to make a decision. He hopes to study aviation, filmography, or political science.

Nathaniel Bullock Senior

Coeur d’Alene High School

At 17 years old, Nate Bullock has spent three years as class president at Coeur d’Alene High School. Now, a senior and student council president, Nate is a student of many talents, including two-time varsity track athlete and photographer since seventh grade.

Among his talents as a creative student, leader and athlete, Nate has honed the practice of compromise.

“One of the biggest challenges I’ve had in high school is realizing that you can’t please everyone,” he said. “Over the years, I’ve had a rough time saying no or trying to appeal to everyone. But that’s how I learned the skill of compromise.”

Student council proved to be an ideal setting for practicing that skill. “In student council, when there are two very good views being shared, compromise means finding a medium that both sides are okay with conveying,” he explained.

“I’m interested in aviation because, as long as I can remember, I’ve had a fascination for planes,” he said. “Especially when I was younger, I really had a dream to become a commercial pilot. It wasn’t until recently when one of my friends got his pilot’s license that I really wanted to get into the flying industry again.”

Nate’s filmography interests are founded in a desire to be able to write, direct, score and film his own movies.

“Directors and writers like Jordan Peele, and production companies like A24 and Monkey Paw Production, make movies that move audiences with compelling storylines,” he said. “I strive to do the same.”

Nate’s involvement in student council piqued his interest in political science as another possible career path. “I’m not sure where this may lead me, but I’m curious enough to consider pursuing this,” he said.

Wherever Nate goes next, creativity will follow.

“A life lesson I’ve learned is from the person I’m job-shadowing for my senior project, Nabil Shehadeh,” Nate said. “Nabil is a photographer who has filmed a wide variety of NFL teams and films for the Seattle Seahawks every game. A piece of advice he gave me was to just keep creating.”

Nate’s photography portfolio can be found at NateBullock.net.

Emberlyn Reynolds Senior

high school has been managing my time between academics and sports,” she shared. “I have been able to somewhat overcome this challenge by making sure I am involving myself in the things I enjoy in my everyday life, to balance the stress and overwhelm.”

Lake City High School senior Emberlyn Reynolds has spent years as a multi-sport varsity athlete and has already had a valuable education both in and outside of academics at her young age of 17.

She joined Lake City’s varsity basketball team her freshman year, has played varsity volleyball since her sophomore year, and her teams have seen an impressive run throughout her high school athletic career.

“I have participated on the basketball team and placed third at state, and have placed fourth at state for volleyball,” she said.

Aside from her success as an athlete, Emberlyn is known to work just as hard on the academic side of high school. As a busy, active student, she’s had to learn and continuously practice time management and prioritization. To manage it all, Emberlyn has learned the importance of focusing her time on the passions that bring her joy.

“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in

It also helps to have a strong support system; Emberlyn’s favorite part of high school is the people who surround her. “In school, I definitely enjoy the community that builds over the years,” she said. “As a senior, I feel like I have connections to the majority of my class.”

Emberlyn credits her time in athletics for another key life lesson: the importance of prioritizing her own needs.

“The best thing I’ve learned from a coach is that taking care of yourself sometimes means doing things others might see as selfish,” she said.

As for her plans beyond high school, Emberlyn is open to what the future has in store for her.

“My plans for college and future schooling are to find the right time for me to go somewhere that I can find what I am passionate about,” she said. “My career interests all involve nature and preserving the environment that does so much for us.”

For whatever lies in store for her after graduation, Emberlyn’s focus on finding a joyful balance in life combined with her selfawareness and self-assurance are sure to make her next steps a continuation of her success.

Lake City High School

“MY CAREER INTERESTS ALL

THAT DOES

FOR US.”

MURALS

“I’ve always been a mural artist,” says Scott Lakey. With his long list of vibrant paintings found at Coeur d’Alene churches, schools and local businesses of all kinds, he says, “I’ve always been that guy.”

Scott moved back to Coeur d’Alene in 2011 with a goal to create a co-working space for creative people. There, he reconnected with Jeremy Deming, who he would work with on a number of artistic endeavors across Coeur d’Alene.

Their first mural as a duo was at the Body Shop in Riverstone. Now, “I’ve painted 87 murals to date, and Jeremy has been with me on most of them,” Scott shares.

“We take a graffiti artist approach, using spray paint only,” he says. “Because we take that approach, it goes fairly quickly. It takes just one to four days, and some projects are over 100-foot walls with 25-foot ceilings.”

Scott drew from his own background as a graffiti artist. “I’m from the graffiti world, where it’s about doing things quickly and having a plan,” he says. “Jeremy’s background is in the sign world, so he brought those old-school sign techniques.” The duo completes in days what could take weeks to achieve with paintbrushes.

A favorite mural of Scott’s is the one he and Jeremy created at Pilgrim’s Market in June of 2020. They haven’t slowed down since.

He and Jeremy just regrouped and finished the gym at Lakeland High School. Next up was a painting at Jamms Frozen Yogurt. Plans to return to Lakeland High School for another project in the spring are already in place.

“We keep busy. The mural thing is so unique, and there’s not a lot of people or commercial art to do it.”

In addition to his success as a mural artist, Scott’s goal to start a coworking space for creatives was realized in 2013, when he launched Artcolab. It took off with success, allowing the duo to coordinate mural projects through the organization and become a vendor for specialized paints from Germany.

Artcolab was designed to be “a fun, awesome space where any person or business can have a cool, creative space,” Scott says, offering the space as an alternative to working from home or meeting at a coffee shop. The space is located at 401 East Sherman Avenue, just above the Moose Lounge, and offers coffee and beer on tap for its guests.

“It’s a single office with a lounge and lobby area,” describes Scott. “In 2020, we consolidated to a corporate office that we use as a by

Taylor Shillam

THESE BIG MURAL PROJECTS ARE AN EASY WAY TO TURN BLACK BUILDINGS VIBRANT,

and bring more life to the city.”

leasable, one-day, one-week, or three-week maximum office rental in downtown Coeur d’Alene. It’s designed specifically for creatives, but we give people options.”

Originally from Twin Falls, Idaho, Scott grew up in a dairy farming family in Central California before moving to Coeur d’Alene to attend Lake City High School. He went to art school in Seattle, and now splits his time between Coeur d’Alene and Pismo Beach, California.

In Pismo Beach, he often paints commercial spaces and works with a restaurant group to provide unique art within their spaces.

“Chain restaurants see value in having character and highlighting their really good food,” he explained. “Rather than have stock art, they can have custom art by an artist that is unique to them and their vibe. How much better does a sandwich taste in a cool gallery art space?”

Upon returning to Coeur d’Alene in 2011, he was glad to reconnect with the local art culture, and hopes to spread that love of art culture to Pismo Beach. His goal for 2023 is to open a second Artcolab space there.

“It’s so cool to paint the city in Coeur d’Alene,” he said. Scott and his team work with businesses directly, often without extra charges and regulations, which typically isn’t the case in Pismo Beach.

In the future, he also hopes to bring Coeur d’Alene artists together in a community project.

“There are so many cool art projects, and they spend so much on community art,” he said of Coeur d’Alene. “We’re just at the beginning for the mural side of it. These big mural projects are an easy way to turn black buildings vibrant, and bring more life to the city.”

Scott’s art continues to bring life to the Coeur d’Alene community. He is currently building out an online mural map to showcase his work, including locations and descriptions of each mural. Examples of his work and more information about the creative workspace offered at Artcolab can be found at Artcolab.com and on Facebook.

CREATING A VIBRANT DOWNTOWN

Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association brings beauty and fun to the heart of the city

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

Locals and visitors alike find themselves gathering in downtown Coeur d’Alene throughout the year, not just for the shopping and dining, but the many community events that take place here throughout the year.

As many may already know, though others may not, the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association (DTA) is the organization responsible for maintaining the downtown core, ensuring it is free of garbage and graffiti. They are the ones who hang flower baskets, American flags and holiday lights, while working with businesses to ensure they are successful to avoid vacancies. They also work with these businesses to organize monthly community events for all to enjoy.

“The Downtown Association is made up of all the businesses located within the Business Improvement District (BID). The BID is also what you would consider the ‘downtown core,’” according to Emily Boyd, executive director of the DTA. “Our east and west boundaries are roughly Northwest Boulevard/Government Way intersection to Eighth Street, and North to Indiana and South to Front Avenue. Downtown is home to over 150 locally owned retail businesses and restaurants.”

Anyone located within the BID can interact and participate with the Downtown Association—as much or little as they would like. There is just one requirement of these businesses: that they be in good standing with their annual assessment. Determined by location, use and square footage of the businesses, these assessment rates have not been changed since the inception of the ordinance that was established in 1990!

“Different businesses utilize the DTA in different ways, whether it is being involved in events, connecting with fellow downtown businesses

at a committee meeting, getting connected with resources or taking advantage of grants and marketing promotions, we are here,” smiles Emily. “I like to think of the DTA as a behind-thescenes organization. We are here to assist the businesses any way possible, even the little things.”

Emily shares how proud she is of the growth of the organization over the past five years: The DTA earned and maintained National Main Street accreditation in 2018, which also allows businesses in the district to be eligible for additional funding–this was especially helpful during COVID. “In 2020, one of our downtown businesses was one of 10 businesses in the United States to receive a grant from American Express that they otherwise would have not been eligible for if they were not part of a designated main street.”

When it comes to events, they have grown the number of events throughout the year in addition to their attendance. In the past five years, they have gone from nine events, averaging 500 attendees, to 13 events (eight of which are free to attend), averaging 1,500 attendees!

“The goal of Downtown Association’s events is to create a sense of place for the community as well as generate foot traffic for the downtown businesses,” affirms Emily. “Many of the events follow a model where attendees travel from business to business, whether it is tasting chocolate or mac and cheese, hunting for an Elf during Elf on the Shelf, or enjoying samples of wine or beer! Our events continue to grow, and after every event, we always have at least one business say, ‘We had a record sales day.’ This is huge when a business can beat summer sales in the dead of winter.”

Funds from the events go right back into downtown operations, according to Emily, and through the growth of the events, the DTA has been able to expand their scope of services.

Mark your calendars for their first two events of 2023: Mac & Cheese Festival, happening January 14, noon to 6pm; and The Chocolate Affair, scheduled for February 11 from 4 to 7pm.

More info can be found in our calendar of events or online at CdADowntown.com.

Afternoon Tea Delight

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

It’s an experience unlike any other in the area. It’s sophisticated, magical, memorable. La Tea Da - A Tea Room opened in Post Falls in 2019 and was purchased by Pam Kyes and daughter Emily Nuss in August of 2022. As the new owners of this special place, their goal is to make La Tea Da a destination for tea aficionados everywhere.

This new venture was the perfect way for Pam and Emily to come together and combine their expertise to create a unique experience for their guests. Pam worked in interior design for 15 years and brings with her an extensive background in hospitality and retail management, while Emily has nine years of fine-dining and hospitality experience and is a recent graduate from the University of Idaho. The pair feels blessed to be able to work together and to have created a successful business alongside one another.

“We both recognize each other’s talent, we each bring something different to the table, and we respect one another enough to accept feedback and grow together,” affirms Emily. “Working side by side with my mom, doing what we love, and seeing a smile on so many faces every day is a dream!”

Pam recalls Emily’s love of tea parties as a young girl, which she’s carried throughout her life. “When she married in 2020 to Kobin Nuss, her bridal shower was a Kensington Gardens high tea party. During college, she traveled to Europe and would enjoy a high tea experience anywhere she could!”

When Pam was presented with the opportunity to go into business at La Tea Da and purchase the business with her daughter, it was truly the perfect opportunity to work alongside one another and build something special to both of them.

La Tea Da is a high tea dining experience, in which the mother-anddaughter duo is committed to creating an exceptional experience for their guests to enjoy the finer things in life and the beauty of elegance. The tea party experience begins with the selection of hats, gloves and plenty of tea photos. Guests are then seated in one of La Tea Da’s themed dining rooms (choose from the Party Room, Secret Garden Room, High Tea Room or Spring has Sprung Tea Room), where a fine-dining table setting and the history of tea are discussed. The finest selections of loose-leaf teas are poured, followed by the main attraction—a three-tier service which includes tea sandwiches, scones and decadent homemade desserts.

“Our motto here at La Tea Da is: ‘It’s what friends do,’” states Pam. “Change up your setting and join us for high tea with an experience, a memory to cherish. We are committed to not being a café, rather giving you an escape from the reality and hustle of everyday life. We want you to feel you are in a magical place, just enjoying good company and the lost art of fine dining—even if it’s just for an afternoon.”

The venue is a beautiful setting for birthday parties, bridal showers, baby showers and company parties. They offer several party packages, taking pride in working with their guests to ensure their party vision becomes reality.

La Tea Da also has a full event calendar each month with themed

parties that guests can attend and are certain to be swept away. Some of the upcoming events include Once Upon a Time Princess Party, A Tea Etiquette Class and Mystery Tea. They invite you to visit their website and follow them at La Tea Da - A Tea Room on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on upcoming events. They are in awe of the outpouring of support the community has shown them since taking ownership of the business. “We have been so blessed by this community, and we are quickly becoming like family to so many of our patrons,” Emily shares. “They have been so generous with their love and support and so giving! After dining with us and seeing the beauty of the tea shop, so many have come back unannounced to drop off china, artwork, décor, just so that they can see everyone enjoy it. It’s overwhelming.”

If you are looking for that special place to host a special event, or a just-because gettogether with friends, let Pam and Emily treat you to an unforgettable experience at La Tea Da.

“We are committed to not being a café, rather giving you an escape from the reality and hustle of everyday life. We want you to feel you are in a magical place, just enjoying good company and the lost art of fine dining—even if it’s just for an afternoon.”

A WEDDING at a Winery

by CHRISTIAN WEANER

ou could ever want A

s they begin to plan, one of the initial decisions that every couple must make is where to hold the ceremony and reception. With an abundance of venues and options to choose from, any newlywed will recall that this process can make your head spin.

While every location has its positives and negatives, one type of non-traditional venue that might just be the least stressful—yet most elegant—place to hold a wedding is one of the picturesque wineries or vineyards located right here in the Northwest. And here is why.

Jaw-Dropping Scenery and Abundant Natural Light

One thing is for sure, if you choose to hold your wedding at a winery or vineyard, your photographer will thank you.

Couples often spend copious amounts of time decorating every inch of their wedding venue to try and hide any areas that might be less than picture friendly. But at a vineyard, the scenery will speak for itself.

With ambient rays of sunshine in every direction, rolling hills of grape vines and charming architecture, you will not be disappointed by the backdrop of your wedding photos.

“A vineyard is the perfect setting for a summertime wedding,” Olalla Vineyard & Winery’s website states. “The natural backdrop of our wine grapes along with our beautiful gardens makes for stunning photos and memories that you and your guests will treasure for a lifetime.”

Olalla Vineyard & Winery, located along the shores of the Puget Sound in Olalla, Washington, is one of the Northwest’s many wineries that could make the perfect setting for your special day.

Great views and radiant sunshine leads to awesome wedding pictures and memories you will never forget.

Everything at One Location

Another perk of planning your wedding at a winery is the all-in-one offerings of most

ONE TYPE OF NON-TRADITIONAL VENUE THAT MIGHT JUST BE THE LEAST STRESSFUL—YET MOST ELEGANT—PLACE TO HOLD A WEDDING IS ONE OF THE PICTURESQUE WINERIES OR VINEYARDS LOCATED RIGHT HERE IN THE NORTHWEST.

GREAT VIEWS AND RADIANT SUNSHINE LEADS TO AWESOME WEDDING PICTURES AND MEMORIES YOU WILL NEVER FORGET.

wineries and vineyards. No need to stress over coordinating your ceremony and reception at separate locations when you can have everything you desire without ever needing to leave the vineyard grounds.

Most wineries that host weddings have built-in packages to choose from that include everything from a day-of coordinator and catering options to security personnel and guest transportation.

Many vineyards can easily accommodate large numbers of people and provide recommendations for nearby hotel block packages and any other details that you would otherwise need to figure out on your own during the planning process.

A perfect example of the versatile nature of a winery wedding venue is Spokane’s Arbor Crest Wine Cellars, which assists couples with every detail of the planning process to help make their wedding day go as smoothly as possible.

A wedding in wine country will not only provide an alluring wedding day, but it will help streamline the planning process to take the weight off the bride’s shoulders while simultaneously giving guests a memorable getaway experience that they will not soon forget.

Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Brides often fantasize about outdoor weddings with eye-popping floral displays and dazzling views of nature as they walk down the aisle. However, planning events outside always comes with the inherent risk of bad weather messing things up.

Fortunately, wineries and vineyards are perfect venues to host weddings thanks to their ability to hold ceremonies and receptions at numerous locations, including indoor options for when Mother Nature decides not to cooperate.

With large tasting rooms, warehouses and bottling facilities onsite, wineries can quickly pivot to move your special day indoors while still allowing for the elegant look that every bride hopes for. Plus, if you are okay with getting a little wet, you can still grab that white umbrella and pop outside for some incredible photo opportunities around the vineyard or winery grounds.

Located in downtown Spokane, a unique wedding venue that provides adaptable outdoor and indoor spaces for your big day is Barrister Winery.

Barrister offers a breathtaking urban garden courtyard for outdoor ceremonies while also providing access to the winery’s historic brick and timber building that will blow your guests away.

While you cannot change what the weather will look like on your wedding day, you can decide to hold your special event at a location that gives you peace of mind, knowing that your day will be as meaningful and magnificent as you always dreamed it would be, rain or shine.

A TALE ASOL

The Obvious One: Great Wine Selections (and Good Food!)

Finally, and arguably most importantly, one of the biggest reasons to hold your wedding at a winery or vineyard is the extensive selection of wines—grown, pressed and bottled on-site—that are available for you and your guests. Oh, and not to mention that wineries are known for their fantastic catering options as well.

While good wine is a given, what you may not realize is that wineries have a solid reputation for their farm-to-table food options that will pair nicely with your wine selections and impress even the most prestigious of your wedding guests.

Also, many wineries provide the bride and groom with the opportunity to taste test their wines ahead of time and pick out what they would like served on their big day.

One Washington winery known for providing excellent food and wine selections is Karma Vineyards in Chelan. Not only does Karma have eye-popping views of the Chelan River, which adjoins their spacious vineyards, but it also offers an added experience that will give the bride and groom a memory to last a lifetime—custom sparkling wine bottles to commemorate the big day.

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a casual sipper, a winery such as Karma Vineyards could be the ideal location for your special day.

And lucky for you, because the Northwest is dotted with wellrespected wineries and vineyards that can make your wedding dreams come true.

HEA LTH

by Ta ylor Shillam

If you’re looking to make a health-related lifestyle change in 2023, it could be time to think outside the box and allow your New Year’s resolutions to evolve. It’s no secret that the start of a new year is a perfect time to revamp your wellness routine. Once the holiday buzz has settled down, the opportunity to take a breath and reset your habits for the year ahead arrives.

While overhauling a nutrition and fitness routine is often at the forefront of health-based goals for a new year, maybe 2023 is the year that sees you add something more to that list: elements of mental health support, building community, and small, simple lifestyle habits that can add up to a major life change.

Start with these easy-to-implement habits and strategies to level up your commitment to health in 2023:

Make time for digital detoxes. If you feel exhausted by the pull of constant screen time, responding to messages, and checking social media, making the conscious choice to regularly “unplug” this year could be highly beneficial for you. Disconnecting from technology and social media is a welcome form of self-care for many, and it doesn’t have to be extreme.

Start by turning off notifications or implementing your phone’s “do not disturb” function for a set amount of time each day. Start small and progress to an amount of daily digital detox that works best for you. Taking some technology-free time at night to wind down before bed is also known to be highly beneficial—set your goal time and stick to it for putting away your devices.

Allowing yourself to release the constant availability and stimulation that comes with being very active on your phone, on apps and across social media can help you set healthy communication boundaries and stay present in the current (off-screen) moment.

Find your fitness community. Have fitness goals for 2023? Take them a step further by embracing what can be one of the best added benefits of adopting a fitness routine: community. With group fitness and studio workouts in full swing, it’s a perfect time to take advantage

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of opportunities to both get your sweat on—and join a healthy new community.

Chances are, you’ll find a fun group or accountability partner who will keep you motivated to show up. Whether it’s trying a new fitness class or joining a running club, challenge yourself to break into a more social sweat scene this year.

Incorporate small doses of movement. Physical fitness doesn’t necessarily all come from a gym, or from a single workout session in the day. More often, fitness is being considered an all-day practice, and breaking up an exercise routine into bites of movement throughout the day can be just as effective.

Along with smaller bites of movement throughout the day come smaller rushes of energy and endorphins—those after-effects of exercise that provide a healthy, addictive rush.

It’s likely you’ll find enjoyment from small doses of mood-boosting movement that you can do at your convenience, such as taking a short walk at lunch time, standing for a few minutes every hour, taking the stairs, or incorporating brief workout sessions during the day. It’s also likely you’ll feel less pressure to get your workout in, if your schedule doesn’t always allow a long stretch of time to dedicate to fitness.

Treat yourself at home. Boost your mood and your outward glow with at-home skin care. Self-care certainly includes caring for your skin, and preserving your youthful glow can be as easy or as advanced as you make it. Whether it’s adopting a completely new, targeted skincare regimen this year, or simply starting with a relaxing face mask during the week, it’s likely to boost both your mood and confidence to pay more attention to your beauty routine. And with more innovative beauty products constantly hitting the market, it’s easier to have spaquality treatments for less, all within the comfort of your own home.

Practice expressing gratitude. Experts have found an association between expressing gratitude and improved feelings of happiness, better sleep, and more manageable levels of stress and anxiety. Working to maintain an attitude of gratitude and joy, even in the smallest ways, can help balance your mental health. A quick tip: Keep a gratitude journal and use it to take note of at least one item you’re grateful for each day.

Get outside. The benefits of time spent outdoors each day (for no matter how long) are undeniable. Making time to go outside at some point of your day to soak up some natural light can do wonders for stabilizing your mood and energy levels throughout the day. The real challenge? Implementing outdoor time daily, regardless of weather. Even when it’s cold in the early months of the year, challenge yourself to make a habit of getting outdoors each day, even if it’s for a quick step and a few deep breaths outside.

Add nutrition (don’t subtract). To boost your nutritional health for the long-term future, focus on adding nutrients, rather than giving up the foods you enjoy. Adding healthier foods to your diet releases the feeling of deprivation and allows you more freedom to choose. Start your nutrition cleanup by focusing on implementing more colorful produce to your plate, rather than subtracting from it. The nutrients and fiber within these natural foods will likely leave you feeling fuller and more satisfied, while leaving less room for indulgences.

NAVIGATING THE

NIC hosts speakers focused on career development

by GERRY MCCRAY, NORTH IDAHO COLLEGE

Inflation is running rampant. Housing prices are high. Wages are rising everywhere.

All of these can make the daunting task of choosing a career path more difficult, but North Idaho College hosted two speakers looking to impart wisdom to jobseekers as part of National Career Development Day on November 16 at the Edminster Student Union Building on NIC’s main campus in Coeur d’Alene.

Career consultant Ann Nakaska discussed career opportunities of the future, while Idaho Department of Labor economist Sam Wolkenhauer focused on what economic trends might mean for those currently in high school or college.

Employers are already fighting over workers, and with population numbers in decline, job openings will continue to climb, Wolkenhauer said. “There’s going to be opportunities everywhere,” he affirmed. “Stuff is going to be more expensive. Markets are going to hate it, but the one beneficiary of this, unequivocally, is going to be workers, young people, trying to choose careers because you’re going to have no shortage of job opportunities.”

When desperate for labor, employers tend to offer higher wages to new employees in a sensation known as wage compression, in which new employees make similar

wages to long-term employees, resulting in dissatisfaction, Wolkenhauer said.

“It’s basically like coiling a spring on wages,” he said. “When it gets let loose, wages start growing very, very quickly.”

Wolkenhauer said that while the service industry and low-skill jobs pay well now, wage compression will eventually shoot traditionally higher paying jobs even further, and he would advise against bypassing higher education.

“Long term, the best paying jobs will continue to be those that require college credentials or some sort of career technical credential,” Wolkenhauer said. “Wage compression is going to uncoil everything, and that educational premium, the need for education, is still going to be very strong.”

Nakaska said higher education can be used with any industry to create unique job opportunities—for example, combining law with the tech industry to train lawyers who specialize in digital privacy, or using an education in business administration in the health-care industry to create candidates for hospital managers.

“We can take any one of these careers and combine it with another industry,” Nakaska said. “… I really hope that you combine whatever job you’re doing with an industry that you love.”

For more information, contact NIC Assistant Director of Career Services Gail Laferriere at 208.769.7700 or gail.laferriere@nic.edu.

Idaho Department of Labor Economist Sam Wolkenhauer speaks during Career Development Day November 16 in the Edminster Student Union Building on NIC’s main campus in Coeur d’Alene. / Gerry McCray, North Idaho College

by MARC STEWART, HERITAGE HEALTH

Jo was in constant knee pain. She was told she needs a knee replacement, but to get one she would have to lose weight. Unfortunately, the medicine she was prescribed for her chronic medical conditions caused her to gain weight— putting her in a never-ending cycle.

Frustrated, the 76-year-old Silver Valley woman met with her Heritage Health provider to go over her medical history. He was shocked.

Jo was taking pills before breakfast, pills before lunch, pills before dinner and pills before bedtime.

“I was taking 13 different medicines,” says Jo. “He couldn’t believe I had been doing this for years and years. He said, ‘What the heck! I don’t want you on all of these medicines.’”

To put an end to her steady diet of pills, Jo met with Jolie Jantz, a clinical pharmacist with Heritage Health, to come up with a new prescription plan and to help her overcome a condition called polypharmacy. Polypharmacy is defined as the regular use of drugs to multiple chronic conditions.

“Jo was on a meal of medications,” says Jantz. “It is a serious issue with older adults because the risk of adverse effects or even lifethreatening symptoms increases as the number of medications multiplies. Several studies have shown that polypharmacy is closely associated with falls, fractures, kidney impairment, frailty, cognitive dysfunction and hospitalization.”

Research shows that more than 50 percent of older adults have been prescribed multiple medications—five or more. According to

the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 83 percent of adults in their 60s and 70s reported using at least one prescription drug in the previous 30 days and about one-third used five or more. In addition, it’s believed that patients who take five to nine medications have a 50 percent chance of adverse drug interaction and that polypharmacy accounts for nearly 30 percent of hospital admissions and is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.

“We talked a lot about options,” says Jantz. “We talked about what we can stop, what we can do less of and what was necessary. It was very rewarding to be able to help her stop taking all of those pills.”

Gradually, Jo, who is a sixth-generation resident of the Silvery Valley, was able to dramatically reduce her daily medications.

“Half of them I was able to stop completely,” says Jo. “Some I had to wean myself off of, but I am not taking pain pills anymore. Instead, I am getting a cortisone shot, which is wonderful for me.”

Today Jo feels like the Energizer Bunny. “I have to remind myself to slow down,” says Jo. “I am so thankful for Jolie. I feel great. I haven’t felt this good in years.”

You can visit MyHeritageHealth.org to watch the rest of Jo’s story.

To schedule an appointment with Jolie, call 208.620.5250.

Heritage Health pharmacist dials down patients’ prescriptions

Fit Tips to Get Your Mind and Body Wedding Ready

Start now to look and feel your best on the big day

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

It is one of the biggest—and most significant—occasions of your life and that of your significant other. Your wedding day. This is the day that two lives unite to become one. Once the engagement is underway, the planning begins. This can cause excitement, overwhelm, stress and anxiety. But it’s important that throughout the process you make you—and your relationship—a priority, physically, mentally and emotionally.

Read on for tips to get your mind and body wedding ready. You’ll be glad you did.

MOVE.

There’s no doubt you’ll be on the move constantly during the months leading up to your wedding day. But between work, dress fittings, invite lists, researching photographers and venues, you want to make sure you set aside time, at least several times a week, to focus on movement to keep your body and mind exercised. Simply setting your alarm to rise 30 minutes earlier and fit in a short run or workout video (if this isn’t something you do already) will help you start your day off right. And by scheduling time in the morning, before the day begins, there is no possibility of your plans getting disrupted by lastminute appointments and unexpected events.

Eat Right.

We all strive to look our best on our wedding day, but the stress of all the preparation, and the feeling that there is not enough time in the day, can cause us to resort to fast food, sugar- and fat-laden coffees, and everything you should not be having. You may even find that the stress is causing you to snack, or binge, even when you’re not hungry. Instead, keep quick, healthy snacks with you at all times, so that no matter where you are or what you’re doing, your purse has nutrient-packed foods to satiate your hunger—and even that stress. And it doesn’t hurt to meal prep so that dinner is practically ready when you walk through the door.

Sleep.

As adults, many—if not most—of us do not get an adequate amount of sleep each night. With the extra excitement of all that’s going on, it may make it just that much harder to close your eyes at night. Do your best to follow a bedtime routine to help you slow down your mind. Brew a cup of decaffeinated tea and choose a new book to read to help you unwind. That list of “todos” can wait until tomorrow when you’re refreshed and clear-headed. And remember, exhaustion never helped anyone.

Relax.

Some think that bedtime is the only time they get to relax. That’s wrong! It is important to make time to step away from the busyness of the day—whether it’s a day of wedding tasks, or work, or both—and focus on ... relaxation. Just taking five-minute breaks throughout the day to listen to your favorite inspirational podcast, write in your journal, stretch over your exercise ball (yes, even in your office) can help give you the boost you need to continue your day.

Reset.

There will come a moment (or possibly a few) when you feel like you are just one person and you need 10 of you to handle all that’s going on. This can end up mentally, emotionally and physically taking a toll on you. No one wants this. So, instead, you can choose to reset. Maybe a facial will help you readjust your thoughts. Perhaps a deep-tissue massage will work out all that stress and angst you’re holding in. How about a healthy lunch date with a friend where you have the opportunity to just chat over a nice meal.

Step-By-Step A Day at a Time

• Start the day off right by getting your body moving.

• Choose healthy meals and snacks. Not only will this help keep off unwanted weight, your mind and body will work in your favor.

• When there’s overwhelm during the day, it is okay to step away for a few minutes to breathe and relax.

• If you feel the pressure of life, work and wedding planning all piling on your shoulders, this is the time to reset and treat yourself with something that will take your mind off of it all.

GratitudeHEALTH Y TIP

A year to be thankful

Did you know that focusing on the positive things in your life may benefit your mental and physical health?

Each day, make the time to express at least one thing you are grateful for—this can be something from your past, the present, or optimism for the future. It can be as simple as recognizing the sun is shining and the warmth it provides. Appreciating time in the kitchen cooking a meal with your kids, focusing on the laughter, not the mess. Despite the stress of your job, acknowledging your talents and strengths.

As a new year is upon us, purchase a special journal, or start a document on your computer or phone, and pen or type one gratitude entry (or more) each and every day. Be sure to date the entry as well.

Whenever you are overwhelmed, or negative thoughts and feelings are taking control, read some of your entries. They’re sure to remind you that there is much to be grateful for.

It’s time to live a life of gratitude.

WEDDING STYLE? WHAT’S YOUR

Creating the perfect look for the big day

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

First comes love. Then comes marriage. Okay, let’s stop right there. Marriage. It’s not just the day two people madly in love, who want to spend the rest of their lives together, say, “I do.” It also encompasses everything that leads up to that monumental moment. There are many moving parts and a whole lot of planning that go into creating the perfect backdrop in which you say your vows in front of your closest friends and dearest family.

As the bride makes her first appearance down the aisle, all eyes will be on her. From head to toe, each touch is a result of her own vision, embracing her unique beauty and style. For those bridesto-be who haven’t already, it’s time to start putting together the look you wish to achieve for the big day.

1Dress.

Sweetheart to scoop necklines. Leg slits. Ruching. 3-D lace and floral. 2023 is the perfect time to be a bride in search of the perfect dress to complement both your body and style—and show off your best self. There are so many options to choose from. Simple, feminine bow details are in this year, as are off-the-shoulder gowns (with or without sleeves). If you’re looking to add some color, pastel blues and pinks are trending as background colors. From mini dresses to full-skirted ball gowns, there’s a dress to match your personality and style.

2shoes.

From stilettos to flats, for some it’s about pizzazz while for others pure comfort. After all, you’ll be in those shoes all ... day ... long. Once you’ve found the dress of your dreams, it’s time to pair it with just the right pair of shoes. Your shoes should complement, not clash with, your wedding dress. Going vintage? Be sure your shoes match the style and era of your dress. Spunky and casual? A fun sneaker might be right for you. Also think about the location of your wedding and reception. Sand and lawn aren’t too friendly to heels. The ultimate goal is to find something that provides both fashion and comfort.

3hair.

If it’s an outdoor ceremony, you might choose an updo to avoid an unexpected wind from making your hair the center of attention and taking away from the moment. You may also opt for an updo if you want to show off the back of your gown, so the beauty of your dress isn’t covered by your locks. If you have a simple gown, let that beautiful hair loose and natural. Though clean, tight buns are still popular, soft, low buns always stun. Or there’s the chic elevated ponytail. Fresh florals always add a beautiful touch when incorporated into your hair. If you are wearing a headpiece or veil (or hat), be sure that the style you choose for your hair will mesh with the headpiece.

Makeup.

It’s your wedding day, and there will be a lot of photos taken of you throughout the day, so it’s important that you create a timeless look that will never fade. There really is no right or wrong—just don’t overdo it. Find what works for you and reflects who you are. If you’re someone who doesn’t usually wear a lot of makeup, your wedding day doesn’t need to be the exception. You can maintain a natural look. From subtle to sultry, romantic to glam, the goal is to enhance your natural features.

nails.

5No detail, no matter how small, should be overlooked on your wedding day, and this is especially true when it comes to your nails. If you prefer an understated manicure with a light pastel polish, you can add simple embellishments such as rhinestones or pearls, floral or lace motifs, even foil decorations.

You may opt for a classic French manicure, gel or acrylics. If your nails are where you’re looking to add that pop of color, red and purple are sure to make an impression. Just remember, you want to schedule your appointment to be as close to your wedding day as possible to avoid anything happening to those beautiful nails beforehand.

Jewelry.

6Remember that jewelry is meant to enhance your look, not compete with your dress or headpiece/veil. This can be something old, something new, something borrowed or something blue! Whether you like to keep with traditions or start your own, a simple piece can truly make a statement. From classic pearls to diamonds, you will want to keep it simple by choosing just one piece of jewelry that can stand alone yet adds the perfect touch to your wedding ensemble. Whether a necklace, bracelet or earrings, choose a piece—or pieces—that reflect your personal style. Less is more.

VICTORIA, BC

The Old-World charm of Victoria, British Columbia, is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. The Coast Salish First Nations Peoples settled the area with communities up and down the coast. Named for Queen Victoria, it is the capital city of British Columbia and was founded in 1843 as a British settlement. Over the years it has become a popular tourist destination and is inundated with crowds during cruise ship season. In the winter months, crowds dwindle, making this low season the perfect time of year to visit. Just 62 miles from Seattle, Washington, you can travel by airplane from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, seaplane, or the Victoria Clipper fast ferry. It is just 25 miles from Port Angeles, Washington, on the Blackball Ferry.

Known as the “Garden City,” Victoria is an easily walkable city with a section of Government Street transformed into a pedestrian-priority zone. Completed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the zone includes picnic tables, seating, planters, and artwork installations featuring local talent.

EAT

No trip to Victoria is complete without enjoying afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress. This luxury experience is extremely popular, so reservations are a must. Sip your choice of teas from a selection of over 20 premium teas. Afternoon tea is a leisurely event. The atmosphere is set as you enter the lovely Lobby Lounge and are seated in this historic space with a modern refresh. Classical piano music from Fairmont’s baby grand piano fills the air, just adding to the ambience. The menu changes with the seasons, but your tea tray will always include freshly baked Empress Raisin Scones that are served warm with house-made clotted cream and strawberry-vanilla preserves.

If you are unfamiliar with the food scene in a destination, take a food tour. Off The Eaten Track offers a variety of tours— both guided and self-guided—to experience the food scene in Victoria. The Downtown Food and City Tour will take you on a walking tour of downtown Victoria to discover culinary gems. Guests will eat where the locals do as well as see some of the historic sites such as St. Andrew’s Cathedral and the Royal Theater. Enjoy samples from seven local foodie stops, which includes unique dishes, pastries, wine, cheese and macarons.

Tea at the Empress - TeaattheEmpress.com Off the Eaten Track - OfftheEatenTrackTours.ca

STAY

If romance is the goal, there is only one choice: the iconic Fairmont Empress. This stately building dominates the inner harbor front and has been a favorite of visitors since its founding in 1908. If you can swing it, book a harbor front suite on the Fairmont Gold Floor, which is like a small boutique hotel amid the larger hotel. It gives you the best of both worlds, a separate check-in desk, concierge, and the use of the elegant Fairmont Lounge, while still having use of the larger hotel’s restaurants, shops, fitness center, pool, and the luxurious Willow Stream Spa.

When splurging on a luxury hotel, take time to enjoy all the amenities. The Fairmont Gold Lounge is a fabulous perk. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast buffet each morning with delectable hot and cold dishes as well as some of the best croissants in North America. Enjoy great coffees from a high-end machine. In the afternoon, pop back in for the Fairmont Empress’ famed scones and Lot35 Tea, Fairmont’s proprietary brand sourced from premium ingredients. Evening offers appetizers and an honor bar for cocktails. Late evening, pop in for dessert. The outdoor veranda is open, weather permitting. Keep warm with outdoor fire pits and blankets while watching a romantic sunset over the harbor.

The Fairmont Empress - Fairmont.com/empress-victoria

DOEnjoy a Winter Wildlife Tour with Eagle Wing Tours. There are plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities during the winter months. Whale sightings are hit or miss in January or February, but you won’t miss seeing them when you head out to the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve. Naturalists onboard will educate your group on the different types of mammals living there. Tours regularly include sightings of harbor seals, elephant seals, and Steller and California sea lions.

The Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Empress is a lovely oasis to enjoy some couple’s time. Conde Nast Traveler ranks it as one of the top spas in Canada. Book a variety of treatments or a luxurious package. Arrive early to take advantage of the Spa Ritual, which helps remove toxins from your body and enhance your spa experience. Start with a traditional Finnish Dry Sauna, then follow with the Steam Inhalation Room. These are in the men and women locker rooms. Join your significant other in the Thermal Mineral Pool. Afterward, you’re sure to be fully relaxed and ready for your treatments, such as an opulent facial or a soothing massage.

Eagle Wing Tours - EagleWingTours.com

The Willow Stream Spa - Fairmont.com/empress-victoria/spa/ willow-stream-spa

If romance is the goal, there is only one choice: the iconic Fairmont Empress. This stately building dominates the inner harbor front and has been a favorite of visitors since its founding in 1908.

SIZZLE Eats

RECIPES LOCAL FLAVOR

SWEET LOU’S RESTAURANT AND TAP HOUSE

American fare with a twist. Ribs (pork or bison) smoked in house. Unique burger menu featuring burgers made from ground top sirloin, topped with pulled pork, hand-battered onion rings or jalapenos. 32 beers on tap to enjoy while watching the game on one of their 24, 4K TVs.

601 E. Front St., Ste. 101 | Coeur d’Alene | 208.667.1170

6915 E. Athol Crossing Rd. | Athol | 208.561.9496

SweetLousIdaho.com | f SweetLousCDA

Coeur d’Alene’s Favorite Neighborhood Pub

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

Offering great food at a reasonable price, paired with excellent service and a familiar face, has always been the goal at Moon Time in Coeur d’Alene. And guests get what they have come to expect.

From the beginning, it has provided the community a warm and comfortable atmosphere where guests feel at home and are provided an exceptional experience—every time. Twenty-five years later, their philosophy has never wavered, and Moon Time continues to provide their guests with familiar faces, great service, a comfortable atmosphere, and great food and drink at a reasonable price.

The menu, from the start, has featured unique and upscale pub food, bringing a variety of items from many different cultures together, paired with a carefully selected 19 beer handles and a wide variety of wines, which complement the food. From the Grilled Pork Tacos to the Mediterranean Lamb Burger and famous Roasted Corn Pasta, their food is sure to satisfy.

When in Coeur d’Alene and looking for a great neighborhood pub, pull up a chair at Moon Time, where the staff is ready to serve you the best!

Moon Time

1602 East Sherman Avenue #116

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho 208.667.2331

WeDontHaveOne.com

THE ELK PUBLIC HOUSE

Spokane’s not-so-secret neighborhood restaurant located in the heart of Historic Browne’s Addition, The Elk Public House has been serving the community for more than two decades. On the menu, you’ll find a great selection of fresh salads, soups, sandwiches and pastas, all made from scratch. They also offer a large selection of brews, wine by the glass and bottle, and original cocktails. Enjoy it all in the comfortable pub-style atmosphere.

1931 W. Pacific Ave. 509.363.1973 | WeDontHaveOne.com

MAX AT MIRABEAU

Join MAX at Mirabeau for an unforgettable experience. You’ll be treated to eclectic cuisine, an award-winning menu with more than 100 items, a wine list boasting more than 500 labels and 75 eclectic cocktails—a perfect match for everything on the menu. Enjoy two happy hours daily, a-la-carte brunch featuring multiple benedicts, mimosas and the area’s best Bloody Mary Bar—starting at only $5.90 per person! There’s live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, and late-night dining with a full menu is offered until close. Open daily at 6am.

1100 N. Sullivan Rd. | Spokane Valley 509.922.6252 | MAXatMirabeau.com

Dine Out In CdA

VINE & OLIVE EATERY AND WINE BAR

Guests will be treated to European-inspired small plates using simple, seasonal ingredients for simply good food served with soul, executed with Northwest flair. Choose from the full wine bar, which serves thoughtful wines by the glass and eight local brews on tap, to complement your meal. Voted Best of 2019 Wine Bar and Girls Night Out. 2037 N. Main St. | Coeur d’Alene 208.758.7770 | VineandOliveCdA.com

THE PORCH PUBLIC HOUSE

A beautiful golf-course view without the cost of joining the country club. They offer a full menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and specialties prepared from scratch without the high price of fine dining, and the region’s finest cocktails, microbrews and wines to accompany your meal. Feel at home in the comfortable pub-style dining room or the fantastic outdoor dining area. Open daily at 11am year round.

1658 E. Miles Ave. | Hayden Lake 208.772.7711 | WeDontHaveOne.com

ANGELO’S RISTORANTE

Angelo’s is the local favorite with a taste of homemade, authentic Italian cuisine! Join them for a fresh, organic, hand-crafted menu of veal, steak, chicken, seafood, pasta and gluten-free offerings. They also offer an extensive wine selection and warm romantic décor. Catering and private cooking classes available with Chef Angelo.

846 N. Fourth St. | Coeur d’Alene 208.765.2850 | AngelosRistorante.net

MOON TIME

Tim’s Special Cut Meats is your perfect, oldfashioned butcher shop. The friendly staff is ready to help you pick out the perfect cut. Tim’s carries only the finest natural meats and also handles custom orders, with an extensive line of house-made products from pickled garlic to specialty sauces, marinades, rubs and salsas. Mobile butchering and wild game processing are also available.

525 N. Graffiti St. | Post Falls 208.772.3327 | f TimsSpecialCutMeats TimsSpecialCutMeats.com

SYRINGA JAPANESE CAFE + SUSHI BAR

A longtime Coeur d’Alene favorite, take a seat at Syringa, located on the corner of Fourth Street and Spruce Avenue in midtown. Using organic produce, choice meats and wild seafood whenever available (and no MSG), enjoy sushi, Japanese entrées, salads and soups. Syringa hits the spot for a cozy lunch or dinner.

1710 N. Fourth St. | Coeur d’Alene 208.664.2718 | SyringaSushi.com

Serving some of the best food around in a comfortable pub-style atmosphere. The menu offers soups, sandwiches, pastas, salads and other specialties prepared from scratch daily, along with a fantastic selection of micro-brewed beers and fine wines by the glass and bottle. Open daily at 11am, the kitchen is open late every night. Be sure to stop in Thursday night for live music featuring national and local artists. For more information including photos, menu, specials and directions, make sure to visit their website.

1602 E. Sherman Ave. | Coeur d’Alene 208.667.2331 | WeDontHaveOne.com

At Two Seven in Spokane, you will find a menu featuring fresh salads, burgers, wraps and sandwiches; and house specialties. They offer a great selection of microbrewed beers, wines by the glass and freshly squeezed juice cocktails to pair with your meal, all served up by a friendly and experienced staff in a comfortable pub-style atmosphere.

2727 S. Mount Vernon St., Ste. 5 509.473.9766 | WeDontHaveOne.com

FISHERMAN’S MARKET

A local favorite for an array of reasons, including the friendly staff, unbeatable atmosphere and phenomenal food. Find fresh fish at Fisherman’s on the market side, while the grill offers everything from fish and chips, specialty tartars, fish tacos, salads, steamers, catfish, oyster po’ boys and more. Check out the delicious poke bowls and the offerings of beer, wine and sake.

215 W. Kathleen Ave. | Coeur d’Alene 208.664.4800 | FishermansMarketCdA.com

Recipe Courtesy of Executive Chef Zac Janssen of Skamania Lodge

Wine, Stein and Dine: Country Style!

MARCH

New location to host this annual event to support the Post Falls Education Foundation

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 4, as the Post Falls Education Foundation presents the 2023 Wine, Stein and Dine—country style.

A&H HIGHLIGHT

“The story of the Post Falls Education Foundation continues,” shares Val Wilcox of the Post Falls Education Foundation. “When we couldn’t have the event due to COVID, we were still able to award the teachers annual grants due to our supporting sponsors and the foundation being fiscally responsible over the years. The 2022 Wine, Stein and Dine was a wonderful event, and we topped previous years.”

The event, which has been held at the Greyhound Parks and Event Center over the years, will be held at its new location at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds in the Jacklin Event Building, with the fun and fundraising taking place from 7 to 10pm. The theme? Country Style.

Tickets to the event are $45 per person and include all food and drink. There will be more than 85 wineries, microbreweries and restaurants on-site offering wine, microbrews, hard ciders, mocktails, hot and cold appetizers, and desserts! In addition to imbibing and dining, guests will enjoy a silent auction, wine tree raffle and photo booth. Live music will be performed by Bill Bosley and Friends, so be ready to dance.

Guests must be 21 or older to attend. For tickets, email jwilkers@sd273.com or valwilcox@gmail.com. For additional details about the event, visit PFEFWSD.org.

Val and the PFEF send a sincere thank you to their major sponsors Columbia Bank, Mountain West Bank and First Interstate Bank for supporting teachers and students in the Post Falls schools.

FEB

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Downtown Coeur d’Alene Art WAlk

Every month, galleries, businesses and restaurants—within walking distance of downtown Coeur d’Alene—open their doors from 5 to 8pm and feature art, music, with some locations providing wine and appetizers. Art Walk attendees can peruse the artwork, visit with the artists, as well as see friends and meet other art enthusiasts the second Friday of the month. A list of galleries and participating businesses and restaurants can be found online at ArtsandCultureCdA.org

Mac & Cheese Festival

The Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association invites the community to a tasty event, sure to warm you up on a cold winter’s day. On January 14, from noon to 6pm, celebrate your favorite childhood dish, Mac & Cheese, as local chefs, who will be competing for the Golden Noodle Award, create delicious variations of this beloved classic. Attendees will enjoy a comfort-food-filled day tasting their way through different cheesy dishes with perfect craft beer pairings and have the opportunity to vote for their favorite! Tickets will set out fast, so purchase your ticket today (priced $12 to $50); link to tickets can be found at CdADowntown.com.

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JAN

04

Banff Mountain Film Festival

You have the opportunity to enjoy three nights of shows, each night featuring a program of different films, at the Kroc Center in Coeur d’Alene, as the Banff Mountain Film Festival returns to town the last weekend of January. Be ready to be inspired by the international film competition, showcasing footage of spectacular mountain subjects from all over the world. Doors open at 6pm for the Friday and Saturday night shows, with films beginning at 7pm. On Sunday, doors open at 4pm, with films starting at 5pm. Each night will feature a different program lineup. Tickets are $19 in advance or $25 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit KrocCdA.org/ kroc-cda/events, and select Banff Film Festival.

38th Annual Wine Taste & Auction

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The Chocolate Affair

14th annual

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A perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day a few days early, The Chocolate Affair returns downtown on February 11 from 4 to 7pm. Ticket-holders have the opportunity to indulge in an assortment of locally handcrafted sweet and savory treats as they wander through downtown businesses as they feature their in-house delectable treats. Visit CdADowntown.com to purchase tickets. If you are a local chocolatier or chef who would like to participate,

the link to register can also be found online (registration closes February 2).

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Coeur d'Alene, ID | MLS #: 22-10827 | Listed at $4,195,000

This remarkable, secluded, year-round Coeur d'Alene lakefront estate is an entertainer's dream home sitting on .49 acres & 100 feet of flat grass & beach frontage.

Post Falls, ID | MLS #: 22-11105 | Listed at $1,250,000

Ten acres with northern and western views of Mt. Spokane and Spokane Valley. It has two wells and a large 48x48 Shop, offering plenty of space for RV Storage. Two main floor master suites, spacious kitchen, and four bedrooms on the lower level.

10 ACRES WITH VIEWS!

LAKEFRONT DREAM

Rathdrum, ID | MLS #: 22-9057 | Listed at $230,000

Rare Tandem Drive-thru Unit coming soon! Two back-to-back 20x50 units that can be driven through. 78 Brand New Units Coming Soon at Hayden Lake Executive RV & Boat Storage!

Coeur d'Alene, ID | MLS #: 22-9794 | Listed at $1,100,000

Charming downtown Coeur d'Alene home on two city lots totaling .25 acres. This turn-key home is currently set up as a vacation rental and includes all furnishings! Close proximity to City Beach, shopping and the downtown lifestyle.

Harrison, ID | MLS #: 22-8691| Listed at $550,000

Incredible Lake Coeur d'Alene and Carlin Bay views! Build your dream home on this east side of the lake lot with stunning sunshine and sunsets. Located within walking distance to the public boat dock.

Coeur d'Alene, ID | MLS #: 22-5719 | Listed at $4,195,000

A true recreational paradise placed right in the middle of grand forests. Attached to 60 acres of paper company property for your use. For seclusion and peace of mind here is remarkable Makridge Lane.