W O R L D - C L A S S R E A L E S T A T E P R O F E S S I O N A L
Nothing compares anywhere in Idaho to the opportunity to own 935' of historic water frontage and privacy like that
Point Kullyspell was the original home location of historical figure David Thompson, who first discovered Idaho and opened the first fur trading business with the Kalispel Tribes on this property. The main property consists of the 13,036 s q ft home with the massive underground environmentally controlled passage to the 2773 sq ft Gate House. The post and beam home with hand scraped solid Cherry Wood floors has a ll t he latest technology provided by Lutron & Savant in air handling systems, security, lighting & water systems. No expense was spared on the home security systems or power production systems. $13,000,000
90 Kullyspell Drive, Hope, Idaho I MLS# 20212601
offered by Kullyspell
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
Living Local
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Allyia Briggs | 208.620.5444 allyia@like-media.com
MARKETING EXECUTIVE Haleigh Ackling | 208.620.5360 haleigh@like-media.com
MEDIA MANAGER Rebecca Baczewski | rebecca@like-media.com editorial EDITOR
Jillian Chandler | jillian@like-media.com STAFF WRITERS Taylor Shillam | Rachel Kelly | Christian Weaner design
CREATIVE
Kim Russo
Patty Hutchens, Lynn Wood, Kristin Carlson, Marguerite Cleveland, Zac Janssen
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Aaron Theisen pg. 34-36, Danell La Belle Bella Photography pg. 80, Noël Brower pg. 80, Weston C. Photography pg. 81, Marguerite Cleveland pg. 86,88
COURTESY PHOTOS: Sage Saccomanno, Fairmont Empress, Bonner General Health Foundation, Schweitzer Mountain Resort
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Living Local magazine is published bi-monthly and distributed freely throughout Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Dover Bay, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Post Falls, Rathdrum and the Spokane Valley. 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.
Executive Director steve@like-media.com
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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint Living Local. If you’re looking
to take a romantic getaway, our travel article takes you to Victoria, British Columbia.
The annual Heart Ball returns in person this year, and you can read more about the event on page 46. In this issue, you’ll also discover Bigger Brain, a clothing and apparel company created by Sage Saccomanno. Be inspired by the story of Katie Begalke and Return Retreats, bringing women together to laugh, heal, share and learn. And of course, you’ll find much more as you flip through the pages of Sandpoint Living Local.
Thank you for letting us share the wonderful stories and inspiring people of Sandpoint with you.
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 a couple in love and a wedding out in nature.
Would you like to receive this issue and future issues in your inbox? Visit SandpointLivingLocal.com and sign up for our FREE Digital Edition.
RETURN RETREATS
Katie Begalke shares her story of escaping domestic violence to create a better future
Sandpoint High School graduate launches youth clothing apparel business to empower students
15TH ANNUAL HEART BALL RETURNS IN PERSON
February 4 event to benefit BGH Mammography Department
+ many more ...
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A WEDDING AT A WINERY Northwest wineries and vineyards make the ideal backdrop for that special day
business spotli ght
EVENTS ON POINT
Cassandra Cayson utilizes her passion for service to bring your vision to reality
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
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.
113 Cedar St., Sandpoint, ID 83864 O: 208.714.0958 | C: 208.946.0850 Rate.com/LeeHardin | Lee.Hardin@rate.com
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, 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 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 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.
eturn Retreats was born out of my personal experience with domestic violence and my journey to restoration and rejuvenation here in Sandpoint,” shared Katie Begalke, executive director and idea generator behind Return Retreats.
Return Retreats are one-of-a-kind retreats designed for women to gather and connect on a deeper level. With retreats based on restoration, revitalization, renewal and reimagination, all proceeds from Return events support burdened women within Sandpoint, providing financial support to organizations like Priest River Ministries for Women, Life Choices Pregnancy Center, and the Panhandle Animal Shelter.
In three years, Return Retreats has brought together women to laugh, to heal, to share, to learn, and to relate. “We have hosted five retreats, nine trivia nights, had a successful Mother’s Day Fundraiser that lifted up Sandpoint women-owned businesses, and have learned a ton.”
It all started in 2017, with a major life change. “Life as I knew it completely shifted after being strangled by my husband just six months into our marriage,” Katie said. “A few months after that incident and several more equally as terrifying, I finally gained the courage to share what I was going through with my family. Together, we made a plan for how to safely leave Seattle and my abusive husband.”
With the help of family and friends, she hastily packed a U-Haul and secured her most precious cargo, “my dog, Hildie,” she shared. Just hours later, the realization hit that she didn’t know where she was going.
“Our plan only went as far as getting me out safely,” she said. “I didn’t have anywhere to live, and moving back to my hometown in Wisconsin wasn’t my first choice.” She began to pray God would provide a place to live for under $800 a month and that the renters would allow her Bernese Mountain dog to accompany her.
“I anxiously searched through rentals in several cities that were on my radar, and only one had a rental that fit my criteria: Sandpoint.” There, she found a rental within her budget that was located off the shores of Lake Pend Oreille.
“This slightly rundown, charmingly rustic cabin became my respite center,” she shared. “Each morning, I would wake up enveloped by
With retreats based on restoration, revitalization, renewal and reimagination, all proc eeds from Return events support burdened women within Sandpoint.
the sun beaming through my windows, and I knew that no matter how hard this next part of the journey would be, I was exactly where I was supposed to be.”
She received further confirmation a week later, when she found an ad in the Daily Bee for a domestic violence support group hosted by the Priest River Ministries Advocates for Women. Joining the group led to further opportunities for workshops, counseling and Bible studies related to her experience.
“It was life-changing and possibly even life-saving,” she said. Katie had considered going back to her husband at the end of the three-month lease at her new home, but what she learned led her to realize she would only be returning to a cycle of abuse.
After two more years in Sandpoint, Katie wondered how she could give back to the community that had given her so much.
“The idea of Return Retreats quickly came to me. Each time I was out on a walk, I would come home and feverishly write out all my ideas,” she said.
“I became obsessed and could envision Return Retreats in its entirety. To get all the ideas together, I started our website, and it was complete within a week. I invite everyone to visit ReturnRetreats.org to see our full mission, vision and values.”
In 2019, Katie visited the Idaho Nonprofit Conference in Boise, formed a board of directors, joined Leadership Sandpoint, and incorporated Return Retreats as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
“I felt on fire!” she said. “I started hosting monthly More Than A Woman Trivia Nights, lining up retreat experiences at thirdparty locations, and was talking about Return with anyone and everyone who would listen.”
Then, COVID hit. “All the momentum was shut down and the idea of gathering women together for retreats was out of the question.”
Katie chose to see opportunity within the unexpected change. “Fortunately, slowing down allowed time for reflection, revision, and a break from my obsession,” she said. “While Return isn’t where I thought it would be, I have found a flourishing relationship with a supportive and loving partner whose entire family has been an absolute blessing to me.”
As the world began to open back up, Return hosted two equine wellness retreats at KayDee Ranch in Sagle, and two of Priest River Ministries Advocates for Women organizational training retreats, each learning experiences that would help shape the future of Return Retreats, and a new goal to find its own retreat space.
“Moving forward, we will advertise retreats for nonprofits, church groups, and small business teams, and run them out of a network of Airbnbs in the area,” Katie said. “Meanwhile, we will continue developing donor relationships, and working toward positioning ourselves financially for the future purchase of our dream property. That dream property just might be the restorative cabin, where I have experienced firsthand renewal at my landlord’s home on the lake.” The restorative cabin is currently available for women to rent and use as a rejuvenating retreat for up to three nights at a time. It can be booked through Katie directly at katie@returnretreats.com.
In the meantime, Katie works at the Community Resource EnVision Center as their PR and Program Coordinator, a role that undoubtedly suits her, positions her to learn, and “plugs me into the community in a way that can only strengthen the future efforts of Return Retreats,” she said. “I hope to continue building relationships within our kind and generous community, while working toward gaining the trust and the excitement of this endeavor among donors.”
The belief behind Return Retreats is that working together strengthens the community. “If at any time we are not a solution to a problem or adding value to our community, we will happily choose to dissolve or partner with another organization to reach the needs of women in our community,” Katie said.
She hopes to continue holding loosely to her agenda and to trust God’s plan and timing for the future of Return Retreats. “Ultimately, our goal hasn’t changed. We still desire to rescue and restore women through a variety of retreat and respite opportunities and intend for the funds to go directly back into the community.”
Katie invites the community to please reach out with any questions or suggestions at katie@returnretreats.com.
“It was life-changing and possibly even life-saving.”
After moving away from his hometown of Sandpoint for nearly a decade to pursue football coaching opportunities throughout the Northwest and abroad, Jake Palaniuk now not only finds himself back in Bonner County but also working at Sandpoint High School (SHS) alongside many of the educators who inspired him when he was a student.
“A big part of being back at Sandpoint is that I wanted to come and give back to that,” Jake explained. “In my travels and my work, it finally hit me like, ‘Wow, I need to appreciate the teachers I had around me and the teachers who were there to support me.’”
Under former Bulldogs Head Coach Mike Mitchell, Jake excelled during his senior season in the fall of 2009, earning All-North Idaho honors and helping Sandpoint reach the 4A State Championship Game.
About a year and a half after graduating, Mitchell approached Jake about an opportunity to come and coach with him in Croatia. Jake was just 19 at the time, and he quickly jumped at the idea.
“It was awesome,” Jake recalled. “We got to go over there and experience the culture, live there and really assimilate to how they live, and we got to coach a lot of great players.”
After leading the Zagreb Patriots to a Croatian League of American Football Championship in the spring of 2012, Mitchell accepted a job to coach at North Medford High School in southern Oregon, and he again invited Jake along to continue as one of his assistant coaches.
Over the next several years, Jake not only enjoyed coaching success at North Medford and later at nearby Phoenix High School, but he also met his wife, Ana Lisa, got married, and started a family.
After wildfires devastated their town in the summer of 2020, Jake and Ana Lisa decided it was time to return to North Idaho, and the couple and their daughter and son moved to Cocolalla in September 2021.
Jake is now in his second year on the support staff at SHS, where he leads the study hall program and student re-engagement services. He has also helped coach Sandpoint’s middle school teams the past two seasons, leading practices on the same field he played on as a 13-year-old.
“It’s been crazy and awesome and a blessing all at the same time,” Jake said of returning home. “Being back and now being able to work with [my former teachers] and continue to learn from them has been a super blessing, because that is just what I want to try and pass forward to the kids in school today.”
105 Pine St. | Sandpoint, ID 83864 208.263.2125
sports. While the statistics and achievements are impressive, what matters most to Kelsey are the relationships she has built with her teammates and coaches.
Kelsey’s athletic career at SHS got off to a remarkable start during her first two years playing for the Bulldogs, as she earned AllLeague awards in both sports and won a state championship in soccer during her freshman season.
Then, in December of her sophomore year, she tore her ACL and MCL.
“That was definitely a blow to my ego and mental toughness,” Kelsey remembered. “Not being able to play really made me rethink my purpose. Being an athlete has always been part of my identity. I had to decide that it still was and worked hard to come back.”
Kelsey Cessna by CHRISTIAN WEANER SeniorOn the soccer field and the basketball court, Sandpoint High School (SHS) senior Kelsey Cessna has made a huge impact throughout her high school career.
Kelsey has contributed on four state tournament teams for the Bulldogs, earned multiple All-Inland Empire League (IEL) awards and been elected team captain in both
Kelsey’s injury was devastating, and the recovery process was long and challenging. But it was during this time away from the playing field that helped Kelsey grow as a leader.
“There were definitely ups and downs through that process, but I think that during my time off as a player I was able to grow in the vocal aspect of my leadership as well as the ability to persevere through tough times,” she said.
During her senior soccer season this past fall, Kelsey was named one of the Bulldogs’ team captains. Along with fellow captain Kimberly Yarnell, Kelsey set out to create a positive team culture on and off the field.
“We spent many hours together with team bonding outside of soccer,” Kelsey said. “It really helped create the culture and made some great memories.”
After Kelsey finishes up her senior basketball season and graduates in the spring, she plans to attend North Idaho College and pursue a degree in Outdoor Recreation Leadership.
In the future, whether she is leading a backpacking trip, whitewater rafting or planning an expedition, Kelsey will be able to use the leadership skills and perseverance she has learned in her time at SHS to help her succeed wherever she goes.
Kacey Mare’s perspective on art changed forever during her freshman year at Sandpoint High School (SHS).
Without much thought, she had created a portrait for her Art 1 class. After looking at Kacey’s creation, her teacher began describing the emotions she felt were displayed in the artwork, which perfectly described Kacey’s actual feelings at the time.
“At that moment, I truly felt that art can express feelings which we can’t exactly put into words, or we may not be aware of having, and that fascinated me,” Kacey recalled. “I wanted to use my knowledge to connect with others in the world who may share the same thoughts as I do, just through a piece of art and without the barrier of a language.”
Now a junior at SHS, Kacey was recently recognized as the Art Student of the Month. Over the last several years, art has become not only a creative outlet for Kacey but a true passion and skill, giving her an opportunity to step out of her comfort zone, self-reflect and connect with those around her.
”At that moment, I truly felt that art can express feelings which we can’t exactly put into words, or we may not be aware of having, and that fascinated me.”
According to Kacey, another influential moment during her freshman year that has helped to define her high school experience was when she decided to try out for the girls’ basketball team.
“It was something I’d wanted to do since my elementary days, and I finally got the courage to play for my school,” Kacey explained. “Even if it was for a short time, I gained more confidence and met people who supported me through it all.”
As Kacey challenged herself athletically, she also began experimenting with a variety of art projects for the first time. A few of her favorite pieces include a close-up drawing of a bicycle she made using India ink and a fountain pen, a portrait engraved on a scratchboard, a panel from a Manga that she carved into plexiglass for printmaking, and a ramen bowl she created in pottery class.
As Kacey has gotten plugged in with activities and art classes at SHS, her inner fears have slowly subsided, and she has been able to express herself more fully and connect with other students she might not have otherwise befriended.
“I feel like I’ve broadened my views toward the people around me, school, and just life in general by interacting with countless people in the past two years at SHS,” Kacey said. “I was very reluctant about putting myself out into the world, but I’ve now grown more comfortable with doing so and with openly expressing myself.”
One evening last year, Sage Saccomanno and her friends were sitting in their dorm room playing a game together when someone quipped, “Bigger brain energy—can’t even hold up my own head.”
This playful banter simultaneously left Sage in stitches and started the gears turning in her head.
“I was thinking, ‘Bigger Brain Energy, that would be kind of cool on a shirt,’” Sage remembered. “And I presented it to all my friends right then and there—as a joke—and said I was going to do this.”
One of her friends looked at her, in all seriousness, and said, “Why don’t you? If anybody is going to do it, it’s going to be you. So, why not?”
It all came together perfectly, Sage recalled. The name “Bigger Brain” seemed to perfectly align with the idea of encouraging students in their pursuit of higher education.
A little more than a year later, Sage, a 2020 Sandpoint High School graduate, current bio-chemistry major at Bard University in Annandale-On-Hudson, New York, and self-proclaimed sneaker head, recently completed the successful launch of Bigger Brain, LLC’s inaugural clothing collection called Smart in Style, which focuses on empowering young individuals that being smart is cool and stylish.
According to Sage, the idea behind Bigger Brain’s mission stems back to her childhood.
Despite being top of her class, Sage said she often felt that she needed to mask her intelligence to try and fit in.
But her perspective changed when she got to Bard and became plugged in with the encouraging academic community there.
“Once I got to college and was put into the environment where I could genuinely learn and dedicate a lot of time to learning, I fell in love with education even more and realized how much I like learning and how much I like being in school,” Sage described.
This realization made Sage recognize the inaccuracy of her former insecurities, and she wished she could have gone back and told her younger self that being smart and being cool were not incongruous. “[Learning] that [lesson] has ultimately brought to me this desire to reach out to young individuals and to help empower them to be confident in their intelligence and actually feel as though they have a shot,” Sage said.
“That is where the idea for Bigger Brain came from,” Sage added. “I wanted to create a brand that not only educated but provided style and also was a safe space and a community for young individuals and college students … to feel supported and have somewhere to go.”
by CHRISTIAN WEANER
Amid changing majors and taking a full load of classes, in February 2022, Sage began using any free time she had to start putting her idea for Bigger Brain into motion. She enrolled in a couple of online business classes and applied for an LLC.
While the process started slow, Sage battled through her discouragement and took some big steps forward over this past summer, the biggest of which came when Bigger Brain was officially legalized as an LLC in the state of Idaho.
“That was a big step,” Sage said of receiving the LLC. “I never thought that I would be able to say that I was the CEO of a company. That was the large turning moment because it made it real that I was actually doing this.”
Sage’s desire was for Bigger Brain to be a brand designed for college students, made by college students, so she began reaching out to many of her connections at Bard to help contribute to the Smart in Style collection. One individual who Sage said has been invaluable to her is LuLu Kirmani, a sophomore studio art major at Bard and the artist that Sage contracted to help with Bigger Brain’s shirt designs.
“For me to be able to spitball words and give [LuLu] ideas that were coming into my brain and for her to come back two days later with this actual product … was one of the coolest parts of the process,” Sage explained. “Because … I was actually getting to see the vision come to life.”
The Smart in Style collection officially launched on November 11, 2022, with a Kickstarter campaign designed to raise the necessary funds to get Bigger Brain off the ground.
In early December, still working hard to reach her $28,000 goal, Sage pondered all that she has learned on the journey of starting her own clothing brand.
“I am always going to be in the midst of this story,” Sage said. “I think [Bigger Brain] is definitely not something that is just going to be a little adventure for me. I think this is going to be a lifetime thing for me.”
To learn more about Bigger Brain and Sage’s story, visit BiggerBrain.com.
“I NEVER THOUGHT THAT I WOULD BE ABLE TO SAY THAT I WAS
Since its revival 15 years ago, the Bonner General Health Foundation has worked tirelessly to raise well over $1 million to support the needs of Bonner General Health, thereby enhancing the services and quality of care for those in our community.
“We are so fortunate to have such a generous community and Foundation to help support us with needs that arise,” said Bonner General Health’s CEO Sheryl Rickard. “Frequently with a nonprofit hospital, such as ours, there are specific things that cannot be covered due to budget limitations. The foundation does a great deal to make some dreams a reality.”
The foundation’s primary fundraiser is the Annual Heart Ball, an elegant evening of a gourmet dinner, dancing, and amazing auction items.
This year’s Heart Ball will be held on February 4, and the Board is thrilled to announce that it will be in person this year at the Bonner County Fairgrounds.
“We had an amazing two years hosting the Heart Ball virtually, but everyone is eager to gather together again and celebrate our 15th Annual Heart Ball,” said Board member and Heart Ball Chair Georgia Simmons.
The primary focus of the February 4 event will be to raise funds for an additional 3-D mammography machine for Bonner General Health.
“Due to our population growth, there are unfulfilled screening mammogram orders in our system. This means there is likely undiagnosed breast cancer in our community. The addition of a new mammography machine will decrease wait times and increase capacity for both screening and diagnostic mammograms, which will result in lives saved,” said Daniel Holland, Director of Diagnostic Imaging at Bonner General Health.
The hospital has a newly remodeled imaging center that has a room available to be dedicated strictly to mammograms. This would allow an additional 20 mammograms to be performed each day by a 3-D mammography machine—the most accurate type of imaging.
There are several opportunities to participate and support the 15th annual Heart Ball. Businesses and individuals can purchase a table of eight or a table of 10. There are also various sponsorship opportunities available.
“We have people who have stepped forward and would like to have
their sponsorship be in memory or in honor of a loved one who had breast cancer. It’s a wonderful way to honor someone,” said Molly Behrens, Community Development and Foundation Specialist for Bonner General Health.
Whether you enjoy international travel, a staycation or family adventure, there is something for everyone at this year’s live auction. In addition, one of the highlights of the evening is the dessert auction. There are approximately 25 desserts that are being donated from area restaurants and private bakers that will be auctioned off at the event.
“It always gets very lively when different tables are bidding on the many desserts,” said Simmons. “We are so grateful to all those who donate their culinary skills to help raise money for our Hometown Hospital.”
For more information on how you can participate, please log onto BonnerGeneral.org/foundation and click on the link to the Heart Ball.
Whether you are a homeowner, residential or vacation rental manager, or in construction looking for help with cleanup, C&M Cleaning Services can help. Fully licensed and insured, their staff will exceed all your expectations. They offer interior window cleaning, residential cleaning, complete floor cleaning and much more. Available seven days a week and in emergency situations, call today for a free estimate. Now offering all-natural Melaleuca cleaning products by request.
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The Volunteer Community Board of Guardian is available to Bonner County adults as a last resort when friends or family are unable to step in and help. The Board's purpose is to protect people who are not capable of making decisions for themselves (such as financial, health and other aspects of their daily living). Please consider volunteering to make a meaningful impact in someone's life. 208.255.3098
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Brown’s can do your custom metal machining, welding and fabrication, plus driveline and hydraulic repairs and parts in stock. Their parts specialists will make your u-bolts and hydraulic hoses while you wait. Transmission and engine rebuilds and exchanges. Brown’s ASE and Cummins Certified Diesel Mechanics are on duty six days a week. No job is too big or too small. Open M-F, 7am-5pm & Sat, 7am - 1pm. Ponderay | 208.263.4643
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Whether you’re a homeowner or a potential renter, consider Panhandle Management. Homeowners, you can trust your home will be well cared for and that responsive service is their strength. They also manage Homeowners Associations throughout North Idaho. Call them today for more information.
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As 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.
EWhile 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Locals may recognize Cassandra Cayson from Forty-One South and Shoga Sushi, which she owned and operated in Sandpoint for more than a decade. Once she closed the doors to her beloved restaurants, it was time to refocus her passion for serving people and dishing up an incredible experience, and Events On Point was born.
“I grew up with a big family and have always been ‘the planner’ of the group,” Cassandra shares. “I guess I took that role as big sister pretty seriously and wanted to make sure everyone was always taken care of.”
In high school, working in restaurants was an easy fit for Cassandra because of her love for the fast-paced environment while ensuring the guests were happy with their experience. She would go on to get her business degree at the University of Southern California, while continuing to work in restaurants and intern with public relations and event planning companies. After graduation, she moved to New York City, where she managed restaurants and assisted companies such as Levi Strauss and Revlon with major event planning projects.
“I moved to Sandpoint and hit the ground running with Forty-One South and then opened Shoga in 2012,” she smiles. “We had an amazing run but sadly had to close in 2021 when the property sold to a developer. Although I didn’t plan to open another restaurant, I still wanted to work with people in a service-oriented role while utilizing my organization and management skills. This led directly to the creation of Events On Point!”
With a passion for planning, production and overall operations of events, the idea of being able to create something unique for each client resonated with Cassandra. “We hosted so many wonderful events at Forty-One South and had the opportunity to work with great clients and vendors throughout the years. Stepping into my own event planning business felt like a natural transition for me professionally.”
Events On Point launched in the fall of 2022, though Cassandra has been working on events throughout a majority of her career.
With Events On Point, Cassandra helps both businesses and individuals create unique and memorable events from start to finish. From location scouting to vendor coordination, timeline management to guest lists, she handles every little detail to make each event a huge success. “I also provide concierge services for families or small groups needing help with arrangements such as dinner reservations, a private chef, or even a fun excursion,” she adds.
As Cassandra shares, the most important aspect of the job as an event planner is to provide each client with the trust to fully participate in their event, knowing that the operations are handled professionally. “With over 20 years in the restaurant industry, I
developed skills focused on customer service, team leadership, conflict resolution, and time management,” she affirms. “Ultimately, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes for the successful production of an event. It is my job to make sure it all flows smoothly, so that you and your guests get to enjoy the event to its fullest.”
Cassandra credits the many wonderful mentors she’s had throughout her career for the success she’s found, but ultimately believes the success she’s experienced in Sandpoint is all thanks to the community. “The support and encouragement throughout my years with Forty-One/Shoga and now, with Events On Point, is so appreciated,” she shares.
“I love the sense of togetherness our community maintains. I have experienced this both professionally and personally in many ways. With the restaurants, I was embraced by this community, and I have lovingly felt the continued support with my new venture, Events On Point.”
If you have a special event planned for 2023, let Cassandra and Events On Point bring your vision to reality.
“There’s a lot going on behind the scenes for the successful production of an event. It is my job to make sure it all flows smoothly, so that you and your guests get to enjoy the event to its fullest.”
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 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.
set healthy communication boundaries and stay present in the current (off-screen) moment.
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.
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.
Caleb L Bowman Financial Advisor
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f you receive Social Security, you’ve probably already heard that your checks in 2023 will be bigger—considerably bigger, in fact. How can you make the best use of this extra money?
Here’s what’s happening: For 2023, there’s an 8.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits—the largest increase in 40 years. Also, the monthly Medicare Part B premiums are declining next year, from $170.10 per month to $164.90 per month, which will also modestly boost Social Security checks for those enrolled in Part B, as these premiums are automatically deducted.
year’s worth of the amount you’ll spend from your portfolio in cash, while also keeping three months of your spending needs in an emergency fund, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Your higher Social Security checks could help you build these cash reserves. (Also, it’s helpful to keep another three to five years’ worth of spending from your portfolio in short-term, fixed-income investments, which now, due to higher interest rates, offer better income opportunities.)
Of course, the sizable COLA is due to the high inflation of 2022, as the Social Security Administration uses a formula based on increases in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). So, it’s certainly possible that you will need some, or perhaps all, of your larger checks to pay for the increased cost of goods and services. But if your cash flow is already relatively strong, you might want to consider these suggestions for using your bigger checks:
• Reduce withdrawals from your investment portfolio. When you’re retired, you will likely need to withdraw a certain amount from your portfolio each year to meet your expenses. A boost in your Social Security may enable you to withdraw less, at least for a year. This can be particularly advantageous when the markets are down, as you’d like to avoid, as much as possible, selling investments and withdrawing the money when investment prices are low. And the fewer investments you need to sell, the longer your portfolio may last during your retirement years.
• Help build your cash reserves. When you’re retired, it’s a good idea to maintain about a
• Contribute to a 529 plan. You could use some of your extra Social Security money to contribute to a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan for your grandchildren or other family members.
• Contribute to charitable organizations. You might want to use some of your Social Security money to expand your charitable giving. Your generosity will help worthy groups and possibly bring you some tax benefits too.
While it’s nice to have these possible options in 2023, you can’t count on future COLA increases being as large. The jump in inflation in 2022 was due to several unusual factors, including pandemic-related government spending, supply shortages and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It’s quite possible, perhaps even likely, that inflation will subside in 2023, which, in turn, would mean a smaller COLA bump in 2024.
Nonetheless, while you might not want to include large annual COLA increases as part of your long-term financial strategy, you may well choose to take advantage, in some of the ways described above, of the bigger Social Security checks you’ll receive in 2023.
When opportunity knocks, you may want to open the door.
Establish a relationship with a primary care provider: It is one resolution easy to keep
“
by KRISTIN CARLSON, MARKETING SPECIALIST, BONNER GENERAL HEALTHJanuary 1, I’m starting my diet.” “I’m going to the gym every day and drinking more water. “This is the year I will quit smoking.”
For many of us, a new year means New Year’s Resolutions. While all these examples are excellent ideas, most of us have trouble accomplishing one, let alone all these health declarations.
Here’s an idea: When it comes to your health, what if you made just one resolution? Establishing yourself with a primary care provider can get you on a long-term health track and one step closer to meeting all of your health-care resolutions.
What is a primary care provider?
When a non-emergent health issue arises, a primary care provider (PCP) will most likely be your first call. A PCP typically manages your overall health and wellness, treats you when you are sick, and is a referral to specialty care.
A primary care doctor, physician assistant (PA) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) can all serve as your PCP. The main differences are the level of education and areas of training. However, they are all unique in their ability to diagnose and treat various health concerns. Many feel they are in good health and do not need a primary care provider. “If I get sick, then I’ll call a doctor.” Having a PCP before you get ill eliminates the guessing of where to go when you don’t feel well. Also, it may be challenging to get in right away if you are coming in as a new patient.
Seeing your PCP regularly typically leads to more preventative screening, wellness exams, and the management of chronic
conditions if and when they arise. Things such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, cancer screening and immunizations help generate health longevity, promoting sustained and improved quality of life.
The more habitually you see your PCP, the more familiar they become with your health history, habits and conditions. In addition, routine appointments promote trust and ease the discomfort of sharing intimate details of your health.
In most cases, a wellness exam or annual appointment with your primary care provider to prevent or catch health issues early on is almost always 100 percent covered by insurance. An appointment with your PCP can allow you to discuss several topics of concern and seek advice or treatment for more than one issue, saving you time. It is also an opportunity to have routine screenings and discuss new concerns. In addition, catching or preventing future health issues can save you from more extensive, costly, and potentially lifethreatening conditions and treatments in the future.
When choosing a primary care provider, think about what will work best for you and your family. Some PCPs operate under a family practice model, where your entire family can be seen and treated. Others may focus on women’s health, pediatrics, adult or elderly patients.
Declare just one resolution and keep it all year long: Make the call to establish a relationship with a provider. If you have a provider but haven’t seen them in more than a year, today is a great day to call them. Go ahead and accomplish your health goals!
For a complete list of services offered by Bonner General health, visit BonnerGeneral.org.
You eat every day, but are you making food choices to sustain or improve your health? If you struggle with weight, digestive problems, chronic health issues or fatigue, you may be asking yourself what you can do to get or keep yourself healthy. Hippocrates taught that in order to prevent and treat disease, one should start by eating a nutrient-dense diet. Everything you eat and drink influences your body, which is why healthy food choices are a cornerstone of optimal health. But there are “healthy” foods out there that are actually not good for us.
Humans are the only species to continue drinking milk after weaning. Non-organic milk today is full of reproductive hormones, growth factors, and antibiotics—all known to cause high levels of inflammation in the body. We have grown up with the belief that milk is healthy and full of calcium. While milk is full of calcium, unfortunately, as humans, we can hardly absorb it. Many other food sources have higher and more absorbable levels of calcium including arugula, tahini, and a single tablespoon of blackstrap molasses. Studies show higher dairy intake increases risk for prostate and ovarian cancer, acne, obesity, and it can increase LDL levels. Dairy is the most common self-reported food allergen in the world.
Unfortunately, the wheat we are eating today is completely different from that of our ancestors, as it’s been cross-bred to make it hardier, sweeter, and to improve crop output. This has changed the levels of gluten, a protein found in wheat. This new hybrid “high-yield
dwarf wheat” is a genetically modified version that has an extremely high gluten content. Throughout history, grains were also soaked, sprouted, or fermented before consumption; even something as simple as that change has had a major negative impact on our health. Eating today’s wheat is raising our blood sugar levels, increasing gut inflammation, and inhibiting absorption of important vitamins and minerals from our food.
Lastly, we have refined sugar. This is sugar that has been stripped of all nutritional value. When we eat refined sugar, it depletes vitamins and minerals from our body in its attempt to become whole again. Refined sugar feeds cancer, has the same impact on the liver as alcohol, impacts our cortisol levels and causes body-wide inflammation.
Along with eating a healthy, whole-food diet, there are some simple diet changes you can make today: Instead of cow’s milk, try nut milk or coconut milk. Instead of wheat flour, try different flours like coconut, buckwheat, oat, almond, tapioca, cassava or rice. Instead of refined sugar, try maple syrup, raw honey or coconut sugar.
Eating food as close to its natural state as possible helps ensure maximum exposure to all the critical minerals and nutrients your body desperately needs to thrive. Mood, inflammation, energy levels, and specific lab markers can all serve as clues that something you’re eating is causing inflammation.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Set on 20 wooded acres in Cocolalla, nestled among the trees, is where you will find Firebrand LLC, an outdoor only wedding and event venue. The vision is that of husband-and-wife Cruz and Teira Bruner. The secluded and private setting offers the bride and groom, and their guests, serenity and peace, and respite from the hustle and bustle. “It’s like nothing you’ve ever experienced,” smiles Teira.
It was after losing their first home to a fire that would spark change—and inspiration—in Cruz and Teira’s life and lead them on the path to Firebrand. “I loved teaching. I loved the students, the families, the community, but we could sense a change in the education world and knew it wasn’t where I was supposed to be,” recalls Teira, who has a degree in education and taught at Lakeland High School for eight years. “I took the plunge and retired from teaching in spring 2019—just before the pandemic. God had a plan. We rebuilt our home (Cruz has been in the construction industry for two decades) and sold it, then went searching for the perfect property. We knew we needed to create something unique and that couples in the Inland Northwest were looking for.”
Throughout her teaching career, Teira was the prom advisor for seven years, student council advisor for four years, and taught Resort Academy at the Coeur d’Alene Resort for four years. She also worked in the hospitality and tourism industry for 10 years total. “With all of this experience in hosting large-scale events and organizing activities, I was excited to [help create a truly memorable experience] for couples—on my very own property.”
The first wedding held on the land was their own on August 7, 2021. They would use their wedding photos to help build their business website and social media pages. Less than a year later, on June 4, 2022, they would host their first clients’ wedding. “We hosted 12 weddings total in the 2022 season, and we already have 21 weddings booked for 2023,” says Teira excitedly.
The unique land offers separate spaces for the ceremony and reception. Tiered levels were created in both spaces to allow for every guest, no matter where they are seated, to witness all the events easily. Crushed granite pathways ensure guests have a path to walk with ease, and there are turnarounds for guests to drive those hard of walking up to the ceremony site, as well as for vendors to easily move about the property. The bridal suite has plenty of light for getting ready and for photographers to capture the moment. Each wedding suite tent has air conditioning.
They host weddings May through September, offering Saturday rates, Sunday rates, and Monday through Friday rates. Their 2023 schedule is filling up fast, with availability Sunday through Friday only, as all Saturdays are booked. They are booking for 2024.
Venue packages include: use of the property for 12 hours the day of event; table, chair and linen rental, setup, teardown for up to 200 guests (a charge for guest counts over 200 may be added); trash removal; use of any décor items in Firebrand’s inventory; use of wedding party suites; two portable restrooms (one standard, one handicap); 15-by-18-foot dance floor; one parking attendant one hour prior to event start time; use of property
for engagement photos (scheduled time required); up to two-hour scheduled rehearsal; and final walk-through planning appointment.
“We are a part of one of the most important days of our couples’ lives. We get to see families and friends come together to pour their love into our couples, and it is truly moving,” shares Teira, who makes it a point to be in the ceremony area for every “I do.” “It means so much to us that our couples love our land as we do, and the fact that we get to share it with them is a dream come true.”
The Bruners are truly thankful to the couples, their families and their own family for sharing their dream with them. “To the couples and families who got married here already, thank you for trusting in our vision. To our family, thank you for helping with the land and working tirelessly to prepare for our wedding and future weddings. This wouldn’t have been possible without you.”
If you’re looking for an enchanted venue to host your dream wedding or event, let Teira and Cruz of Firebrand help bring your vision to life in the beauty of the North Idaho forest.
“It means so much to us that our couples love our land as we do, and the fact th at we get to share it with them is a dream come true.”
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.
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
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
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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.
Sandpoint’s premier waterfront dining offers an extensive menu of American cuisine with an impressive wine list. Featuring a full-service bar and beautiful view of Lake Pend Oreille. Open 11am to 9pm Thursday through Monday for lunch and dinner, Trinity at City Beach is ready to become your new favorite restaurant.
58 Bridge St. | Sandpoint 208.255.7558 | TrinityatCityBeach.com
Fresh and unique, Jalapenos Mexican Restaurant in Downtown Sandpoint has been a favorite of many for over 25 years. Whether it’s Margarita Monday, Taco Tuesday or Magic Wednesday, there is something for everyone here, and its newly expanded menu has brought even more choices to diners. If you are looking for family fun, a date night or even a place to host a party in their private dining room, Jalapenos Mexican Restaurant will keep you coming back for more! 314 N. Second Ave. | Sandpoint 208.263.2995 SandpointJalapenos.com
Authentic Mexican cuisine prepared fresh daily. Fiesta Bonita’s menu is full of many unique and authentic recipes. They have a full bar at their Ponderay location and outdoor seating. Open daily at 11am. Bring the family or make it a date night. There is something for everyone at Fiesta Bonita!
700 Kootenai Cutoff Rd. | Ponderay 208.263.6174
City Beach Organics offers top-notch, made-fromscratch organic food and drinks in a recently renovated downtown location. They serve homemade soups daily! Conveniently located, they can also make your order to go! Open Sunday 9am to 6pm, and Monday through Friday 7am to 6pm; closed Saturday.
117 N. First Ave. | Sandpoint 208.265.9919 | CityBeachOrganics.com
Sweet Lou’s Restaurant and Bar proudly offers something for everyone, with specialties including chicken fried steak, smoked prime rib, bison ribs, and grilled PB&J and bacon sandwiches. All menu items are reasonably priced, fresh and made to order. Full bar.
477272 Hwy 95 | Ponderay 208.263.1381 | SweetLousIdaho.com 6915 E. Athol Crossing Rd. | Athol 208.561.9496 | SweetLousIdaho.com
with Mashed Potatoes and Roasted Veggies
You don’t have to be an executive chef to whip up this main dish and sides to impress dinner guests. This recipe keeps things easy with ingredients you can find at your local grocery store and in your pantry.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cross rib roast
• 12 garlic cloves
• 4 sprigs of thyme
• 2 sprigs of rosemary
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• ½ cup canola oil
• Kosher salt, as needed
• Fresh cracked pepper, as needed
METHOD:
• Preheat oven to 450˚F.
• Mince garlic, pick thyme and rosemary (chop fine). Make a rub with oil, vinegar, garlic and herbs. Season the meat with kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper.
• Place meat on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Roast at 450˚F for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on size of roast and oven.
• Reduce oven heat to 250˚F and slow roast for about 90 minutes. (Internal temperature should be about 120˚F.)
• Depending on how you like your meat, you can either cook less or more.
(Skin on or skin off; your choice)
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 lbs. potatoes
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 4 oz. butter
• ½ cup sour cream
• Kosher salt, as needed
• White pepper, as needed
• Granulated garlic, as needed
• 1 oz. chives
METHOD:
• Large/medium dice your potato of choice and place in salted cold water. Cover with about 1 inch of water (dependent on your batch size). Boil until soft or steam if you have a steamer.
• Heat heavy cream and butter until warm.
• Slice the chives finely.
• Once potatoes are done and butter/cream is warm, use a bowl or pan (whatever will store the potatoes and give you extra space to smash, mix, mash, etc.).
• Place potatoes in said vessel, add butter/cream, kosher salt, white pepper, granulated garlic, and mix.
• Once you are close to the right consistency (somewhere between super soft and runny to super stiff and dry), add some sour cream until it gives it a bit of tang.
• Add chives, mix and keep warm.
INGREDIENTS:
• 16 oz. carrots
• 8 oz. yellow onion
• 2 bulbs of fennel
• Canola oil, as needed
• Kosher salt, as needed
• Fresh cracked black pepper, as needed
METHOD:
• Preheat oven to 425˚F.
• Clean your veggies. Peel your carrots and onion. Remove the core of the fennel. All veggies can be cut to preference.
• Once all veggies are cut proportionally (close to the same size so they cook equally), lightly coat with canola oil, and season with kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper.
• Place on a sheet pan and roast until knife/fork tender. Ideally you want to build some color/caramelization, so a bit of char is not bad. (Do not over/undercook your veggies. Crunchy or burnt and super soft veggies are bad.)
by Jillian Chandler
It was one year ago that Pend Oreille Arts Council unveiled the Joyce Dillon Studio to honor the legacy of Joyce through the namesake art studio.
When Joyce passed away in the summer of 2020, more than a dozen nonprofits in Bonner County were the beneficiaries of her estate—and Pend Oreille Arts Council was honored to be a recipient of her generosity. Thanks to the generous donation left to them, the board and staff of the POAC wanted to find a way to use the funds to ensure Joyce’s name and legacy lived on. They formed the JDS Committee, and planning for the new studio space began. It would make its home in a space at the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint (110 Main Street), upstairs from where the Pend Oreille Arts Council’s office resides.
As Board President Carol Deaner shares on POAC’s website, “One of [Joyce’s] last wishes was to help POAC continue its mission of providing artistic and cultural opportunities for
the citizens of our community. The first step of this wish is the establishment of a classroom/studio where local artists and students, both young and old, can continue expanding their artistic endeavors.”
Through the Joyce Dillon Studio, students are encouraged to gather, learn and create. If you’re hoping to explore your artistic side, or continue to nurture your already established passion for art, it’s time to explore all the classes offered through the studio. From creating glass chimes from recycled material to weaving, urban sketching and wildlife and landscape painting, to pastels, oil painting and kimekomi, as well as photography, there’s no shortage of mediums to delve into.
The current catalog of classes (with dates, times, descriptions and costs), can be found online at ArtsinSandpoint.org/ jds-student. The schedule currently offers classes January through May.
Benefiting Selkirk Outdoor Leadership and Education, join SOLE at the Back Country Film Festival on January
6 as they aim to raise essential funding for our local Snow School. 2023 marks the 18th annual Backcountry Film Festival, which will be held at the Panida Theater starting at 7pm with doors opening one hour prior. Tickets, which are priced $12 for adults in advance ($15 at the door) and $7 for youth ($10 at the door), can be found online at Panida.org/events.
Join Schweitzer for this fireworks spectacular! Held the Saturday over Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend (January 14), and brought to the community by the Schweitzer Mountain Community Association, this Northern Lights show kicks off at 6pm with a torchlight parade down Jam Session, followed by a fireworks show in the village, then music and party in Taps. To find out how to participate in the parade, visit Schweitzer.com.
This three-day film extravaganza, held at The Panida Theater, is one of the largest and most prestigious mountain festivals in the world, celebrating amazing achievements in outdoor storytelling and filmmaking worldwide. Tickets are $19 in advance and $24 the day of the show. The festival kicks off January 20 at 7pm and continues January 21 at 7pm and January 22 at 6pm. Doors open one hour prior to the show. Find out more, and purchase tickets, online at Panida.org/events.
2023 marks the 15th year of Bonner General Health Foundation’s Heart Ball, and it’s back in person! Set for February 4, this fundraising event for our Hometown Hospital will be held at the Bonner County Fairgrounds, with funds raised to go toward an additional 3-D mammography machine for BGH. Get your tickets today for a fun evening of dinner, dancing and exciting auction items, all while raising money for a worthy cause. For tickets, to make a donation or become a sponsor, visit BonnerGeneral.org/foundation.
Held at the Bonner County Fairgrounds, Foundation for Wildlife Management’s annual Fundraiser Banquet returns February 11. Doors open at 3pm for the event, where attendees will enjoy dinner at 5pm, auctions, games, raffles, libations and fun for everyone! New this year: Every sponsor table will get to choose a gun from their gun wall! Seating is limited and expected to sell out, so get your tickets today at FoundationforWildlifeManagement.org.
Samuel Adams Air & Après is a free one-day festival plus a stunt show on snow. On February 23, the slopes at Schweitzer will become an immersive 3-D storytelling visual experience projected directly onto the mountain, while pro skiers and riders throw down. Enjoy great beers, music, fireworks, plus an after party to cap things off right after the show. Après done the right way. Visit Schweitzer.com as the event nears for additional details, including event times.
W O R L D - C L A S S R E A L E S T A T E P R O F E S S I O N A L
