2010-11 Lydia's Style Magazine by Style Media & Design, Inc.

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november/december 2010

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Mr.Blackwell Retrospective

Satherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Jewelers Celebrates 100 Years Holiday 2010

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Warm est greetings of the season and best wishes for happiness in the new year.

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w w w. s t y l e m a g a z i n e c o l o r a d o . c o m w w w. m e d i c a l a n d w e l l n e s s . c o m Publisher Lydia Dody | lydia@stylemedia.com Editor Angeline Grenz | angie@stylemedia.com creative director Scott Prosser Senior Designer Lisa Gould digital director Austin Lamb | austin@stylemedia.com Advertising Sales EXECUTIVES Jon Ainslie (970) 219-9226 Abby Bloedorn (970) 222-8406 Karen Christensen (970) 679-7593 Lydia Dody (970) 227-6400 Saundra Skrove (970) 217-9932 Office Manager/About Town Editor Ina Szwec | ina@stylemedia.com Accounting Manager Karla Vigil Editorial Assistant Audrey Springer Office Assistants Ronda Huser, Trisha Milton Contributing Writers Connie Hein, Corey Radman, Kay Rios, Laura Sebastian, Tracee Sioux Photographers Warren Diggles, Marcus Edwards Affiliations Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce Loveland Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 2011 Style Magazines January-Loveland/Greeley Medical & Wellness Magazine and Directory February-Style March-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness April-Style May-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness June-Style July-Fort Collins Medical & Wellness Magazine and Directories August-Style September-Women’s Health & Breast Cancer October-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness November/December-Holiday Style Style Media and Design, Inc. magazines are free monthly publications direct-mailed to homes and businesses in Northern Colorado. Elsewhere, a one year subscription is $25/year and a two year subscription is $45/year. free magazines are available at over 140 locations throughout Northern Colorado. For ad rates, subscription information, change of address, or correspondence, contact: Style Media and Design Inc., 211 W. Myrtle St., Suite 200, Fort Collins, Colorado 80521. Phone (970) 2266400. Fax (970) 226-6427. E-Mail: ronda@StyleMedia.com ©2011 Style Media and Design Inc. All rights reserved. The entire contents of Style Magazine are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher. Style Media and Design Inc. is not responsible for unsolicited material. All manuscripts, artwork, and photography must be accompanied by a SASE. The views and opinions of any contributing writers are not necessarily those of Style Media & Design Inc.

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Diverse Feedback

Read Cover to Cover Dear Style, As always, I walked back from the mailbox and read Style (September Women’s Health and Breast Cancer) cover to cover. I was going to offer, if you would put me in touch with her, to answer any questions that Desiree Johnson of Windsor (“From Our Readers” section) might have about the HCG diet. I am still on it and surprised to be losing fat in places I have never been able to lose before. I now can easily go into a store and know size eight jeans will fit without trying them on. That is a first for my many years of yo-yo dieting. You may give her my email if you wish. I have nothing to gain by doing this, I don’t sell it ... it just works and I am happy with it and am willing to share the experience. Thanks for a continued enjoyable relationship with your magazine.

Hello Lydia & Angie! I have had such fun feedback from the article you did on my fly-fishing (Style, August 2010)! It has truly amazed me at the diverse demographic that your magazine touches – the comments have come from such a variety of folks and locale – what a broad following! It was an interesting experience and treat to share this part of my life that has been so positive for me. I hope it encourages other women to “go for it” when something, whatever it might be, speaks to their soul and can generate so much happiness. It is so important not to postpone this component of our busy lives. Thank you, Style. Sincerely, ~ Gretchen Osborn, Fort Collins thank you Hi Abby, Thanks for everything. The article is beautiful (“Natural Products for Your Skin,” Style, September 2010) and we all love the ad. The magazines you dropped off are flying out of here. Thanks so much. ~ Michele Renaud Slavik, Renaud Naturals, Loveland

~ Jan Thydean, Fort Collins

we love to hear from readers. send your comments and suggestions to: angie@stylemedia.com Phone: 970.226.6400, ext.215 | Fax: 970.226.6427 www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

Lydia, I have been in Texas for two weeks for the birth of my new grandson (he’s beautiful). When I got home, I saw that I was on the cover of Style – September issue. It took my breath away. You have once again made me feel so wonderful and I just wanted to thank you with all of my heart. You are an awesome woman and I know I speak for so many others as well as myself when I say that we love and appreciate you. ~ Rhonda Bisby, Fort Collins Dear Lydia and Staff, Thank you for the inspiring, wonderful and incredible feature article on “Thrivers Celebrating Life.” These women are absolutely beautiful and awesome. They are our neighbors, friends and relatives – I actually am Rhonda Bisby’s sister! She is truly the most brave and amazing woman that I know and I will aspire to be more like her every day. I will strive to be less overwhelmed with life’s resolvable issues and focus on family, friends and appreciating the opportunity of living. Rarely are we tested to the hilt like these beautiful women who are true survivors and heroes. ~ Annette Bisby, Houston, Texas Beautiful and Informative Issue Lydia, I think the September Style Women’s Health & Breast Cancer magazine turned out GREAT! Really beautiful and informative. Great job. ~ Julie Sather-Browne Sather’s Leading Jewelers, Fort Collins

Happy Holidays!

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We are medical directors & pathologists of the clinical laboratories at Poudre Valley Hospital, Medical Center of the Rockies, McKee Medical Center and North Colorado Medical Center.

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Dear Lydia, Just sat down and read the September issue. It was great. The photos were beautiful and I learned a lot from the articles. This issue certainly does a great service for the cause of breast cancer awareness. Just wanted to say “Great issue!” Thanks... best! ~ Linda Gabel, Seniors Helping Seniors Dear Lydia, I want to congratulate you on a wonderful September Style issue. I read every story of every woman and was really impressed. You have done a wonderful job and I just want to say “Congratulations!” ~ Joan C. King, author great article Dear Karen, Angie, and Warren, I was so pleased to walk in to the office this morning and read such a great article (“Seniors Living Luxuriously” October 2010 Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness magazine), see a fantastic ad, and have the Hillcrest photos just leap off the page! Thank you all for your hard work in letting Hillcrest shine! The article is wonderful and I know that everyone here is VERY pleased with the results!!! ~ Lyndsey Burmeister The Hillcrest, Exceptional Senior Residences, Loveland

Holiday 2010

Alzheimer’s Feature

honored to be a model

Dear Lydia and Corey, I just saw the article in the October 2010 Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness issue. Lydia, thank you so much for doing this special feature on Alzheimer’s. It is a worldwide problem afflicting 27 million patients, and here at home the total cost of care for five million U.S. patients is $172 billion. Because the number of patients is expected to triple by year 2050, there will be a devastating impact on an already strained public health budget. While researchers have tried very hard to block plaques and tangles for the past several decades, unfortunately, this has not been found to prevent disease progression as shown by nearly a dozen failed clinical trials. Elan Pharmaceutical showed that their treatment prevented plaque formation but had no effect on dementia, or time to death. For this reason, perhaps this new direction of research with insulin and IGF will offer much needed new hope. Corey, you did a terrific job in providing a moving human-interest story intermingled with clinical impressions of very good local neurologists as well as the new scientific data. I appreciate what you both have done to serve the health interests of Northern Colorado.

Lydia, It was an honor to be one of your models for Style’s September issue – “Sisterhood of Thrivers.” Now I understand what being part of the “sisterhood” means. We bond in a way that only those who have had breast cancer understand. God bless you, as you have been a blessing to so very many women.

Best regards, ~ Doug Ishii Colorado State University

Sincerely, ~ Barbara Stolz

oops!

In our October magazine, Style incorrectly referred to grief counseling offered by local hospice programs as “grievance” counseling and mistakenly referred to Pathways Hospice volunteer Ralph Murphy as a grief counselor (“Easing the End-of-Life Transition,” October Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness magazine). Additionally, the article indicated that every hospice provides grief counseling to the entire community, whether their loved one has been in a hospice program or not. In fact, it is at the discretion of the individual hospice whether they provide this service to the entire community. Locally, both Pathways Hospice and Hospice of Northern Colorado offer this extended service. We deeply regret the errors.

on the cover

Julie Sather-Browne celebrates Sather’s Leading Jewelers’ hallmark of 100 years in business this holiday season. Photography by Marcus Edwards, hair design by Shauna Troxell, C&S Workshop, and make-up by Lori Moore, Merle Norman.

features

Local vendors provide for all your wedding needs.

Say “I Do” to Great Wedding Photography . 66

American designer Mr. Blackwell is celebrated at CSU exhibition.

Avenir Museum . . . . . . . . .

Fresh Wedding Designs for 2011 . . . . . .

Bridal bouquets feature color . . . . . . . .

CSU’s museum tracks global influences through textile design.

about town

Festive Holiday Hors D’oeuvres

a photo tour of non-profit events . . . . . . . 76

. . . . . . . . . 30

Local caterers share their favorite holiday recipes.

Fun Outside This Winter . . 34

Enjoy the outdoors with these winter activities. Great gift ideas this holiday season.

Resale Boutiques Focus on a Green Sense of Style . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Resale boutiques give unique pieces a second life.

Alpha Center Boulevard Blues CSU Blackwell Top Cat Top Chef

community innovator Craig Secher: Answering the Cry in the Dark . . . . . . 82

style’s wedding spectacular special wedding section Wedding Tips & Trends .

Cattle Barons

Hope Lives!

Holiday Events Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Find out the latest trends in location, ceremony and more.

Black Tie Bowling

A Vintage Affair

holiday gift guide . . . . . . . 38

72 82

Sather’s Jewelers Celebrates 100 Years . . . . .20

Blackwell’s Legacy of American Couture . . . . . . . . 26

44 30

Wedding Directory . . . .

The best location for your upcoming nuptials.

The Sather family celebrates a century of fine jewelry.

Celebrate the Local Way .14

Local breweries, distilleries and wineries blend art with alcohol.

the perfect place to say "I do" . . . . . . . . . .

Realities for Children founder shares his inspiration.

departments

From our readers . . . . . . . . 8 publisher’s letter . . . . . . .12

holiday 2010 :: STYLE | www.stylemagazinecolorado.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

TWENTY THREE TREES MEDICAL & WELLNESS SPA POU D RE VAL L EY H EA LT H SYST EM

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Holiday Celebrations The holiday season has always been my favorite time of year, and this year it is going to be extra special. As you can see, my two girls, Meredith and Ali, are all grown up. Ali has graduated from the University of Denver and now works in Denver. Meredith is in her second year of medical school in Ohio, and she will be getting married this December to Josh, a classmate. She visited briefly in October, and my dear friend Rosie Sinnett hosted a beautiful wedding shower for her, where we caught this photo of the three of us. It seems like just yesterday I was driving both girls to the skating rink and making sure they got their homework done. Where does the time go? My girls have been my joy and happiness, and it is so fulfilling to see them grow up into such delightful young women! Speaking of time flying, this Holiday issue of Style

marks another anniversary of publishing Style magazines for the Colorado Front Range. This is our 26th anniversary, and we are still excited, energized and delighted to bring you 11 magazines a year. We consider it an honor and a privilege to work with and for such a great community. It takes a creative team effort to bring these magazines to you. I am so very proud of our talented staff. They are truly committed to bringing you interesting, informative and visually exciting magazines, and they continually strive for excellence! Over the years I have marveled at how Sid Sather, owner of Sather’s Leading Jewelers, grew and expanded his thriving business, and how he groomed his daughter, Julie, to become vice president of the store. He is a brilliant merchant who works very hard and expects near perfection. He is truly a formidable entrepreneur! This year the store is celebrating their

100th anniversary, and we thought this would be the perfect opportunity for you to take a peek behind the scenes to get to know this wonderful family and learn what makes them so successful. Thank you, Julie, for being our beautiful and vibrant cover model! Along with bringing out sentimental Christmas decorations and making your home feel festive and inviting, sharing the season with friends always includes food and drink. We asked four caterers to share their favorite holiday recipes with us. Be sure to read “Festive Holiday Hors D’oeuvres” and give them a try this season. During the holidays many families plan upcoming weddings in the year ahead. Pick up wedding ideas and tips in our Special Wedding Section. Read about various locations, see exquisite gowns, enjoy creative photography and read up on fresh new ideas. Look over our wedding directory for small businesses that cater to those planning a wedding. Our annual “Holiday Gift Guide” of unique gift ideas, services and treats will have you thinking out of the box for that hard to buy for person on your gift list. Remember to tell our advertisers you saw their product in Style Magazine. We hope you enjoy our festive holiday issue; and, as always, we welcome your comments and suggestions. Thank you for your support these past 26 years. We feel blessed! We wish you and your family a joyous and safe holiday season. With gratitude, lydia@stylemedia.com

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Business Matters

Celebrate T H E L O C A L W AY

By Angeline Grenz

Many today are familiar with artisanal cheeses or breads. How about artisanal beverages? These include not just beers from our plentiful microbreweries, but wines and spirits as well. Northern Colorado’s newest trend is locally produced, handcrafted and lovingly made beverages.

These homegrown businesses offer a unique local experience as well as the perfect Colorado-made gift opportunity. More than that, they are the reflection of the heart and soul of their owners – families who are making their dreams come true one bottle or glass at a time. Visit a tasting room and give them a try.

Microbreweries Fort Collins has long been known as a microbrewing mecca. But Loveland and Greeley are vying for

the title, too. Small breweries are popping up across Northern Colorado, each with their own formula for creating a frothy mug of hops and malts. New Belgium Brewing, Odell Brewing and Fort Collins Brewery regularly draw hundreds of visitors every week and crank out excellent, exciting beverages, but several smaller breweries have popped up more recently. Crabtree Brewing Company opened a tasting room in Greeley near downtown in 2006. Equinox Brewing, in Fort Collins, opened in April of

this year, next door to Hops & Berries, owned by the same couple. Northern Colorado’s newest brewery is Big Beaver Brewing Company in Loveland, who has come up with a unique CSA-style approach to selling beers, where members get a regular beer allotment – and first dibs on all new brews. Also located in Loveland is Grimm Brothers Brewhouse, who has steadily been serving up tall glasses of German-style beer since opening in July of this year. Owners Aaron Heaton and Don Chapman

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

shared a passion for home brewing and met through a local homebrew club, the Liquid Poets Society (www.liquidpoets.com). The pair talked seriously about starting a brewery for two years before their dream became a reality. Now they have a brewing operation that will already be expanding to double production in 2011. Chapman serves as master brewer, while Heaton takes on the business side. Grimm Bros. produces three year-round beers: Snow Drop, a dead Germanstyle ale known as a Kottbusser with a crisp, honey flavor; The Fearless Youth, a Munich Dunkel with a bready flavor that is Grimm’s bestseller; and Little Red Cap, a Dusseldorf-style ale with a nice malt and hops balance that took silver at this year’s Colorado State Fair. In addition to the year-round brews, Grimm Brothers produces several seasonal beers. This season, look for The Owl, a smoked porter. Visitors who frequent area microbreweries with any regularity know that these seasonal releases include everchanging, innovative and tasty new brews that are worth keeping tabs on. Most will include you on their regular mailing list if you sign up at their websites. Grimm Bros.’ marketing also grabs attention. Chapman’s wife, a schoolteacher, recommended the name Grimm Bros. “At first we thought the idea would be too childish,” recalls Heaton. “But then we read the stories.” To match the company’s name, Ten Fold Collective created a series of bottle labels depicting characters from the original Brothers Grimm fairytales. Chapman and Heaton continue to work their day jobs and spend afternoons, evenings and weekend making their dream become a reality. If the crowd that gathers ‘round Grimm Brothers at quitting time is any indication, they are off to a good start. Several area restaurants have also picked up their beers, so look for them on tap at your favorite watering hole.

Distilleries Micro-distilleries in Colorado today are what microbreweries were in the ‘90s – a venture gaining an exploding popularity on a finely crafted level. Colorado has 17 such distilleries at last count, a marked increase over the four present in early 2007. While these distilleries are mainly sprinkled along the Western Slope and Denver/Boulder area, Northern Colorado has entered into the artisan beverage market, with two distilleries opening in 2010. September saw the opening of Dancing Pines Distillery in Loveland, and Syntax Spirits opened this month in Greeley. Using natural ingredients, not essential oils, and taking a small batch approach is the backbone of Dancing Pines’ philosophy, according to co-owners Kristian and Kimberly Naslund, and Kristian’s father Christopher McNay of Grand Junction. To that end, their boutique style liqueurs and spirits are made from recipes the Naslunds have lovingly refined. It all started with Kimberly’s chai recipe. “Kimberly has always made chai at home and said it would make a good liqueur,” recalls Kristian. While he was skeptical, the results speak for themselves. The recipe uses five spices and whole black tea leaves. The warm, sweet chai taste is unmistakable, and the black tea flavor is a pleasant background to the spice. It is their bestseller. Dancing Pines also sells an espresso liqueur made with locally roasted beans, a traditional molassesbased white rum and an aged rum. They will also offer spiced rum in December. Already, local liquor stores and restaurants have picked up the liqueurs and rum, with one establishment adding a chai

Holiday 2010

Serving You with 6 offices in Northern Colorado

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Manhattan to their cocktail list. For self-taught distiller Kristian – who takes the lead in crafting their spirits – this is just the beginning. Already, his incredibly smooth corn and barley bourbon is aging in oak barrels, available next summer. Following that will be vodka, gin and other specialty liqueurs. His excitement is palpable – get him talking, and he may offer you a sip of his delicious cherry liqueur or ask your opinion on his spiced rum recipe. The distilling process is as important to Kristian as his finished product. A large copper pot still dominates the room, imported from Spain. Kristian chose the beautiful, exotic Alembic hand hammered still because the same family has manufactured it for generations. “We like the tradition behind the still, and it allows us to collect more flavors [from the process],” says Kristian. Keeping batches small allows Kristian to be involved in every step. Kimberly adds, “It is important for us to remain a handcrafted product.” To that end, they painstakingly hand-number each bottle produced at Dancing Pines. Dancing Pines has already collaborated with nearby Grimm Brothers: Grimm Bros. provides their barley mash and, once the bourbon has aged, Dancing Pines will hand off the barrels to Grimm Bros. The barrels will impart the sweet bourbon flavor into the brewery’s Imperial Stout, and there is talk of selling Dancing Pines’ bourbon and Grimm Bros.’ bourbon-aged Imperial Stout as a combo pack for beer and whiskey lovers. Dancing Pines’ tasting room is currently open Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. and by appointment. Hours will expand at the beginning of next year and as they continue to grow. The second distiller, Syntax Spirits in Greeley, produces wheat vodka from locally sourced materials. The owners, Heather Beam and Jeff Copeland, hail from the Portland, Oregon area, where they

saw similar distilleries popping up. The two outdoor enthusiasts have created a label for their line of vodkas that features sexy female outdoor adventurers. Their first vodka is Class V, named for the most difficult class of whitewater, and derives its taste from good local grain and water. Beam says they plan to add organic vodka in the near future and a gin after that. The tasting room is located right next door to Crabtree Brewing and will serve vodka plain or in mixed drinks. Syntax’s tasting room is open for weekends during the month of November, with plans to expand hours in December.

Wineries Colorado’s warm days, cool nights and low humidity are the perfect conditions needed to coax the flavors from wine grapes to make fine wines. While winemaking began on the Western Slope more than a century ago, it is no surprise that the endeavor has spread to the Front Range – now with almost 40 wineries from Canyon City to LaPorte. One of the newest wineries is Blue Mountain Vineyards, situated on a lovely piece of farmland on the edge of Blue Mountain Reservoir. The spot is tranquil, and owner Bill Prewitt, with his wife’s considerable landscaping talent, is slowly turning his property into a wine producing paradise. A home winemaker for more than 40 years – before he was even old enough to drink, he says – Prewitt has long appreciated a fine glass of wine. When he retired from corporate America a few years ago, he decided to turn hobby to business and purchased his 35-acre Berthoud property. Blue Mountain Vineyards is only it its third year of business, but they are steadily gaining a following, from 115 cases sold in the first year to over 800 cases in 2010. Prewitt’s grapes come largely from the Western Slope and Northern California, but he is in the process of planting his own vines, about an acre and a half

Bill Prewitt shows off the lush gardens at his Blue Mountain Vineyards in Berthoud.

Tasting wines at Blue Mountains a year, in hopes of one day producing wines from his own stock. is a process unto itself – and one Prewitt is currently bottling a that will only get better as it ages. Colorado cabernet sauvignon and a Prewitt loves to share his wines, their stories and explore their flavors with cabernet franc. He also has a sauvignon blanc, a young chardonnay and his guests. He is also transforming a Riesling that are ready to bottle. He the property around his winery to ages many of his wines in a combimatch that of his home nearby, with nation of American and French oak lush gardens from Asian-inspired to barrels. native plants and beyond. Prewitt can Blue Mountains’ best-selling white rattle off the names of trees, shrubs is a refreshing Pinot Grigio with flavors and plants as easily as he can the of peach and apricot. His gewürztracharacteristics of a good cabernet. miner, a light, crisp wine with a little That is Prewitt’s idea of a wine tastbite, sells out every Thanksgiving – ing: a little wine, a little scenery and “it goes wonderfully with turkey,” a lot of enjoyment. “I want people according to Prewitt. to come out and talk with me, let From his selections of red, try his them wander through the gardens soft merlot, which picks up a nice and just make it special for them.” spice from the barrels. Or try his favorPrewitt schedules tastings by ite, the cabernet sauvignon, which he appointment. He also sells many of his calls his “Netflix wine – great when wines at local farmers markets. “The you are watching a movie; it gets folks in Northern Colorado, especially better the longer it sits.” Fort Collins, have been so supportSyntax Spirits' first vodka ive,” he says, adding that most who Whatever your choice, the quality release: Class V take the time to taste always take a must meet Prewitt’s exacting stanbottle or two with them. “The comdards before he will turn it over to the public for consumption. And, “I will munity support is fabulous.” never sell you a bottle of wine that Whether you enjoy the slow heat you have not tasted first.” of a good spirit, the filling satisfaction Prewitt crushes, ferments and blends his own of a pint of beer or the intricate flavors of a fine glass wines at the small winery on his property. In addiof wine, you need look no farther than your backyard. tion to a fermenting room, he has storage, a lab, Artisanal, boutique beverages are right here, and they a special room that can store champagnes, and a are sublime. Visit page 32 for a complete listing in Northern Colorado. tasting room. Off the tasting room are multiple levels of decks overlooking the reservoir, where guests can Angeline Grenz is editor for Style Magazine. linger over a glass of wine. continued on p. 32

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Style 2010

Cover Story

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

By Corey Radman

small child, about five years old, stands before a glass jewelry case, spray bottle in one hand, a rag in the other. Though it’s hard for him to reach the top, he is focused on removing fingerprints with ammonia and elbow grease. “Pshh” – the bottle fills the small room with scent and sound.

This child is a Sather; the child’s exact name doesn’t matter, as every Sather son and daughter for five generations has held this job at some point. These children are lucky, because for 100 years now, they have been patiently inducted into their lifelong profession by the best in the jewelry business, their parents and grandparents. The first Sather’s jewelry store was opened in 1910, in Spooner, Wisconsin, by Art Sather. Lined up together on an unpaved street were a café where visitors could grab a 35 cent lunch, the local post office and the Sather’s store with the family name etched on the large front window. At the time, Art had no idea that he was beginning a dynasty. Art’s brother, Sigurd Ludwig Sather, an initial partner in the Spooner store, moved to Craig, Colorado in 1931, where he opened his own jewelry business. Sigurd achieved enough success, even during a depression, that he was able to help three of his sons open stores in Utah, Wyoming and Colorado. His fourth son, Howard, inherited the Craig store. Howard passed away in 1964, leaving the Craig store to his son, Sid Sather. Sid, now 74 years old, says, “In our family, you were expected to be in the jewelry business. That’s just what we did. Sometimes it was a challenge, but I loved it.” That dedication and passion for the profession is what has kept him returning to the store every morning for 45 years.

Holiday 2010

The original Sather's jewelry store opened in 1910 in Spooner, Wisconsin.

Sid remembers: “As a child, I swept floors, washed windows and emptied wastebaskets. When I was 12, I would go down, shovel the walk, put the watches in the case and then go to school. Hard work was just the expectation.” That main street store in Craig is where Julie Sather and her sister Deborah were raised. Julie remembers with fondness the wobbly wooden stool that made her stomach lurch every time she climbed up to clean the front window. Even now, she grows teary from the memory of a childhood with a sense of place and purpose. “This is the way it should be,” says Julie. “Children learning from their parents what it means to work, to be good at something… plus I’ve seen my dad just about every day since 1987 – what a blessing.”

On the Move Again

Colorado State University is the reason the Sather family started thinking of a store in Fort Collins. When Julie was attending school here in the mid ‘80s, her family saw what positive growth opportunities the town offered. “I can remember using the pay phone in the hall at the Chi Omega Sorority house to call the Chamber for population and median income information to report back to Dad,” Julie says, smiling. “Back then, we didn’t have cell phones,” she laughs.

Today, Sather's Jewelers is located near Foothills Mall, with the distinctive diamond tower heralding their presence in mid-town Fort Collins.

Immediately after her graduation with a degree in international economics, Julie had dreams of working abroad. With little more than pluck and a few dollars in her pocket, she bought a oneway ticket to London, where she worked at E.M.I. Records, then at Marks & Spencer. She worked there for eight months, but admits the glamorous London life was not all that she had imagined it to be. “I would go to the food market on Portobello Road each Saturday morning and just stand there,” she says. “I thought, ‘What am I doing here? I’m just a country girl. I need to go home and be near my family.’” By phone, Sid told Julie that if she came back to Colorado, he could use her help in opening the Fort Collins store. That was 1987, and Julie has never again worked outside the family business. Sather’s Leading Jewelers made its home inside the Foothills Fashion Mall for close to 20 years, until they opened at their current location in The Diamond Tower on East Foothills Parkway. “I love this profession,” says Julie. “What a wonderful blessing to have been born into this industry. Jewelry is an expression of the intensity of love and commitment that the people share; it marks special moments and occasions. It’s just such an honor to be a part of these celebrations in people’s lives.”

Growing Pains

Julie’s transition from fresh college graduate to reliable employee had a few bumps. Julie remembers: “Being so young and full of ideas, I thought I knew everything. I questioned every decision Dad made for a year.” She cringes with the memory of youthful arrogance. “One day my father took me for a drive and said, ‘I value our relationship as a father and daughter. I’m afraid that if you keep working here, we won’t have that.’ “Are you firing me?!” she asked, incredulously. Julie continues: “I asked for one month to find a new job, then worked like I never had before. At the end of that month, my father said, ‘If you can work like that for the rest of your life, you can stay.’

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Since that day, I have never been lax in my work ethic, not for a moment. My father being proud of me is one of the things that drives me the most. “My father was right,” she adds. “He did know what he was doing. He knows more than anyone I’ve ever met.” In Julie’s 23 years at Sather’s, she has worked every job there, and is now a VP. She has earned degrees from The Gemological Institute of America, The American Gem Society and The Diamond Council of America, a rare triad for the industry.

Recipe for Success

The story of the modern day Sather’s Leading Jewelers store is one of hard work and persistence. Sid shares that his store has never ended a year with a loss – ever. This is an astounding run of success, especially considering that he has weathered at least three major recessions since taking the helm in 1965, when he was 29 years old. For the year 2010, a year when so many businesses shuttered their stores, Sather’s success continues with “a healthy pattern of growth,” reports Julie. “We are aware that this economy has been hard on people; many good friends in our industry have lost their businesses,” says Julie. “We are just so grateful to be able to continue doing what we love.”

What have they done differently?

“Being small has advantages,” Julie says. “We are sleek, vigilant and can turn on a dime. If a strategy isn’t working, we stop immediately. When the current downturn started, we had a meeting. My father in all his wisdom told us, ‘We can pull back, sit tight and hope it blows over, or we can move full speed ahead with a positive mindset.’ “My father understands the value of love and emotion,” she continues. “His experience has taught him that people have always been and will always be in love. They want a personal jeweler to help them celebrate in an emotional and intense fashion. It was unanimous – we all chose the second option, to move forward at warp speed and be here for our clients. “It wasn’t without risk, and it was not done

Holiday 2010

Sather's wide range of products and superb customer service is the foundation of their continuing success.

recklessly. The team understood the work involved. We hired smarter, we trained our team to new levels, we bought more inventory and we increased our ad budget.” Sid sums up the business strategy more succinctly: “We work like crazy.” It’s true. At 74, Sid comes in to work before the sun, seven days a week. He checks figures every day, and is still involved in every decision. “People ask me when I’m going to retire,” he says. “I’m not. This is what I love doing. This is my profession.” The balance of power doesn’t seem to be at all in question. Sid and Julie work seamlessly together. Julie is grateful for the mentorship and number of years she has had to learn from her father. Long-time employee Leslie Ann Phillips is a VP who has been with Sather’s for 30 years. Looking back on the transfer of leadership from father to daughter, she says, “Julie really manages the store these days. She has grown tremendously, and has a great insight into how people work. Her success is mainly because she truly wanted to be a part of this business, and that’s what you really have to have – a desire for it. She has taken Sid’s example to work hard and leads the staff by example.” Julie is humble and clearly adores her mentor. “Dad is the reason the store has been so successful. He has always known the key to this business: people are always in love.”

The Sather Difference

Asked what has been his first priority in business, Sid replies: “We know that without our customers, there wouldn’t be anything else. The customer is number one; that sounds cliché, but it’s just the way our business operates.” David and Diane Gustafson have been shopping with Sather’s for 25 years because of that philosophy. “I feel like a friend there,” David says. “They know how I take my coffee, they know my wife backward and forward. If I call the day before Valentine’s Day (as I sometimes do), they’ll pull aside a few choices for me and I can be in and out of the store in 10 minutes if I need to. I look forward to visiting with them like old friends, especially Julie

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

and Emi [Whatley].” Ike and Patricia VanDeventer share this feeling of warmth for Sather’s. “Sid and Julie’s honesty and integrity stand out,” says Patricia. “They are there for us. To me that’s what jewelers should be like – there for their customers, not just to sell jewelry.” The VanDeventers still fondly remember the year that Ike went to the store to buy a sapphire bracelet as a gift for his wife. “Sid showed me several, and mentioned that there was one bracelet with man-made stones that was less money,” recalls Ike. “‘I think this year, that one would be best,’ I said. Without a word, he wrapped it up. When Patricia opened it up, I saw that it was the wrong bracelet, the one with the real stones. So I said we’d have to take it back and explain the mix up. When I got there Sid told me, ‘That was my error, you keep it and enjoy it.’” Ike’s voice quavers a bit as he says, “I know he did that on purpose. I’m not a man that cries, but that choked me up. I just felt so warm and good inside that he would do something like that for me!”

Tradition Continues

The fifth generation of Sather children has yet to draw a paycheck; they’re both still in elementary school. However, Julie’s two children, Oliver and Isabella, both take turns washing the cases and serving refreshments at events. Isabella, who is nine, has helped launch a line of jewelry, The Bella Collection, which is starting to sell in the store. Proud mother Julie glows as she says, “Bella was very involved in logo designs, jewelry selection and colors. She was right on all accounts. We changed it all. It is beautiful, and my experience tells me it will be a sell out!” Julie is adamant when she says, “I know my forefathers are looking down on us now with amazement in what they started a century ago. This store has been thriving for 100 years, and it’s not going to stop with me!” Corey Radman is a writer and mother of two, residing in Fort Collins. Her website is www.fortcollinswriter.com.

Holiday 2010

Colorado State University

y c a g e L s ’ l l e u re t w u o k Blacmerican C of A

By Angeline Grenz

Mr. Blackwell created fashions for women that were soft and feminine, whether the silhouette was draped in yards of fabric or minimally covered with a few thousand strategic beads. It was Blackwell’s love of the female form that came through in every strapless, sequined, ruffled, ruched and embroidered creation. The designer, born Richard Sylvan Selzer, began his career in the late 1950s, with a focus on celebrating the female form in evening dress. He created gowns for Jane Russell, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Jayne Mansfield and Nancy Reagan. Blackwell also became the first designer to show his line on a television broadcast and to make his creations available to plus-size women. It was the shift to casual attire that became popular in the ‘80s that ultimately brought a close to his designing career. But while the phoenix of Blackwell’s line eventually dimmed, he was already recreating himself as a critic, and for 48 years he held court as the king of fashion exposition.

The gentleman who held ladies’ hands as he walked them down the street was the same one who could shoot daggers in one line in his “Ten Worst Dressed Women” list. Consider his barb at Martha Stewart: “[She] dresses like the centerfold for The Farmer’s Almanac.” He considered Jennifer Aniston to be “a fashion bore and a snore,” claiming Aniston’s thenboyfriend Brad Pitt looked better in a dress than she did. And Cher’s 1999 outfit was “a million beads and ONE over-exposed derriere,” according to Blackwell. The list ran from 1960 until interest eventually waned, with the final “Worst Dressed” list appearing in 2008. Blackwell’s favorite targets were those

celebrities who he felt lacked their own innate sense of style, though few would claim any lasting damage done by Blackwell’s critiques. He claimed that the real culprits for their fashion blunders were fellow designers who forgot that their job “is to dress and enhance women. Maybe I should have named the [list] ‘Ten Worst Designers’ instead of blaming the women who wear their clothes.” During his career, Blackwell cultivated a relationship with Colorado State University, visiting for the first time in 1989. The relationship evolved after a donation of 50 Blackwell garments, stoles and boas was made to CSU by Lum and Montz Jenkins, owners of Cates First Avenue in Cherry Creek, who carried his line for many years. Linda Carlson, curator of the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising, had only been in her position for a year (having just finished graduate school at CSU) prior to Blackwell’s visit. He arrived amid press, cameras and a flurry of activity, and Carlson remembers, “It was a terrifying day to me. I don’t feel I ever really met him that day.” The trip was a whirlwind that lasted only a few hours, but Carlson and CSU immediately began reaching out to Blackwell to visit again. He returned in 1996 and, Carlson recalls, as a matter of her personal survival, “I decided I had to treat him like any other human being.” That visit, Blackwell spent a week at CSU, teaching and lecturing students and attending a gala exhibition of his work. Over the course of his visit, Carlson found out Blackwell’s secret: “I discovered Mr. Blackwell was a character. He was actually a shy man, rather retiring, and delightful.” Carlson recalls Blackwell’s enthusiasm for working with design students, and how he would walk down the hall every morning, greeting students with a smile. And when he would retire to Carlson’s office for a break from the activity, they would share a cup of chamomile tea and quiet conversation. After the visit, Blackwell scheduled a return visit in 2000, but illness kept him away. Over the years, Carlson and other faculty visited him several times at his home in California. During those visits, Carlson would spend time shopping with Blackwell, watching him turn garments inside out to examine how they were made. Following his 1996 visit, and during visits to his home by Carlson, Blackwell also added to CSU’s collection, including his master patterns, sketches and publicity photos, and scrapbooks chronicling his career. With donations made over the years, CSU’s collection of Blackwell garments is the largest in the world, with over 130 pieces. Sadly, Blackwell did not get to make his third trip to CSU; he passed away in 2008. To celebrate the collection and the life of one of America’s top designers, The Avenir Museum opened up the Mr. Blackwell: A Retrospective exhibition in October. The exhibit showcases 32 original Blackwells, chosen to highlight his career in design through the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Each gown highlights the elegance and timelessness of Blackwell’s designs. The exhibit can be viewed through April 1, 2011. “The goal of the exhibit is to talk about this creative designer,” says Carlson, who adds that his talent as a designer was often shadowed by the Mr. Blackwell persona. “He loved the female form. His wanted to flatter, rather than overwhelm, women with his designs.” “Mr. Blackwell loved eveningwear, cocktail and better dresses,” she continues. Mr. Blackwell even

Holiday 2010

Ali Rahimi, L.A. couture designer, visited Colorado State University in October 2010 to launch the Mr. Blackwell exhibition.

instituted a scholarship program at CSU, awarded every year to a student who is interested in designing eveningwear. As part of the exhibition kick-off celebration, L.A. couture designer Ali Rahimi visited CSU in October. During his visit, Rahimi lectured on Blackwell, who was a source of inspiration for Rahimi during his career. Rahimi also taught several classes attended by design and merchandising students. Rahimi has created haute couture for many A-list clients, including Jane Lynch’s red carpet gown at the 2010 Emmys. Rahimi has also designed dresses for celebrities such as Heidi Klum, Anjelica Huston, and Eva Longoria, and he created the iconic pink suit for Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde 2. At his October lecture, Rahimi spoke fondly of meeting Mr. Blackwell, who after intense inspection of Rahimi’s showroom gave the designer his nod of

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THE

AVENIR MUSEUM

approval. Rahimi also spoke candidly of his own lack of business sense during his early years, encouraging students to be cautious with their designs and to learn the fundamentals of their trade as a means to support them throughout their design career. “Learning the techniques served me well,” he says. “I always managed to make a living with that foundation.” Like Blackwell, Rahimi says it has always been his desire to create “only really beautiful formal clothes.” True to this passion, he holds himself to the standards of haute couture designers of Europe, and France in particular, where the label couture is bestowed by the government on designers who adhere to a strict set of regulations, a designation that is protected by law. Rahimi was invited to CSU after Carlson saw him speak at Blackwell’s memorial service. “Rahimi spoke about him with such great affection,” recalls Carlson. Rahimi’s visit provided a glimpse into the world he and Blackwell shared, properly setting the stage for students and the public to embrace the skill, passion and detail evident in Blackwell’s designs. The Blackwell Retrospective is the culmination of a dream for Carlson, who was touched deeply by her relationship with Blackwell and Spencer. At the reception the day before the event opened, she said, holding back tears, “This is a fulfillment of a dream to honor him for the designer he was… It is my goal to celebrate him again.” Angeline Grenz is editor for Style Magazine .

Holiday 2010

Much can be discerned from a bolt of silk, the color pattern of a kimono or the simple lines of a chair. The designs and textiles of a culture or a period of history give us the ability to look inside the lives of others, a glimpse into the innate sense of a person and their values, mores, superstitions and conventions. Stories that can be told by fabric and wood. Colorado State University’s Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising, with its collection of more than 12,000 artifacts, gives us that glimpse into the lives of others and how their artistry can impact us globally. Artifacts include historic clothing, lace, textiles and, most recently, chairs. The Avenir’s humble beginnings were two rooms with limited access in the Gifford Building. With the establishment of the University Center for the Arts, the museum received its new home. A $1.25 million gift from the Avenir Foundation in 2008 gave the museum its name, established museum storage and a conservation laboratory, and provided endowment funds for a curator and continued cultivation of the collection. The gallery and state-of-the-art storage facility feature museum-standard humidity, temperature and lighting control. These are necessary components for any museum accreditation through the American Association of Museums, which the Avenir is currently seeking. These changes also mean that the collection can be used as intended – as a learning tool for students. The 12,000 objects in the collection are currently being photographed and catalogued for reference, and the careful handling of materials means “this research resource is available,” says Linda Carlson, Avenir curator. “Students are always welcome and the collection is accessible – under controlled circumstances.” The Avenir also contains a reading room and attached classroom. The accessibility of the collection “really makes the course work come alive for students,” says Carlson, whose favorite saying is the Mark Twain quote, “Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.” In addition to the 32 Blackwell garments currently on exhibit at the Mr. Blackwell: A Retrospective exhibition at the museum, the collection is home to 500 kimonos, 300 textiles from Central and South Asia, a $140,000 lace collection, 19th century men’s and women’s apparel, and designer collections from Arnold Scaasi, Carolina Herrera, James Galanos, and Calvin Kline. A chair collection was added in 2007, with the goal to include interior artifacts. “We wanted something at the Museum that would speak to interior design,” explains Carlson. The collection has come to CSU largely by donations, especially from alumni. “Our patrons have been extraordinarily generous; it is such a thrill,” says Carlson. The museum opened to the public last year with their first exhibit, Window to the World. The Blackwell exhibit will continue through April 1, 2011. Information regarding the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising can be found at www.dm.cahs.colostate.edu/welcome/museum.

Scott McBryde

Fiona’s Delicatessen and Catering Fort Collins

Artichoke Chile Dip

Festive

Chef McBryde: This recipe is best made the day before, then reheated, stirring occasionally until hot.

Holiday

• 1 ½ lbs. cream cheese, cubed • 1 cup sour cream • 14 oz. artichoke hearts, drained • 2 oz. yellow onion, diced • 1 tsp. black pepper, ground

Hors D’oeuvres

Local caterers share their favorite holiday recipes.

• 1 tsp. kosher salt (less if table salt) • 3 oz. green chilies, chopped • 5 oz. Parmesan cheese • 1 chipotle pepper, minced

Combine all ingredients in a 13-inch glass or metal casserole dish that has been rubbed or sprayed with oil. You don’t have to mix it since you’ll be stirring it while it warms. Cover with lid or parchment paper and foil (mixture is too acidic for straight foil). Cook in 350-degree oven for one hour stirring every 20 minutes. Check seasoning and adjust with salt and black pepper. Can be served immediately or cooled uncovered then wrapped tightly and stored up to five days in fridge. Yields 3.5 lbs. for 15 to 30 people.

David Daggett

Tastebuds Epicurean Café & Catering Fort Collins

Potted Duck with Sweet Marjoram & Fresh Cranberry Chutney David Daggett: This festive holiday appetizer has been a family favorite for years. We always keep some on hand at our house through the holidays. It’s unique, elegant and easy to prepare. Serve the potted duck in your favorite holiday dish accompanied with the cranberry chutney, crackers or a nice loaf of bread. I guarantee it will be a hit!

Potted Duck with Sweet Marjoram - Serves 8-10

Seasonings to add to shredded duck:

• 1 whole duck (approx 4 lbs.) • 3 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 yellow onion, chopped medium • 2 tbsp. Marjoram fresh chopped fine • 1 tsp. allspice

• ½ tsp. salt • ¼ tsp. allspice • ¼ tsp. nutmeg • ¾ cup duck stock • 1 fresh Marjoram sprig

• 1 tsp. nutmeg • 2 tsp. salt • 1 ½ tsp. black pepper • ½ cup. brandy • 1 cup water

Procedure: Split duck in half. Season inside and out with herbs and spices. Place in roasting pan skin side down. Sprinkle onions over duck. Pour brandy and water over duck. Cover and place in 300-degree oven approx. 3 to 4 hours or until duck meat is falling off the bone. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Strain duck juices from roasting pan and reserve. Remove all meat from bones and place in bowl, add seasonings and strained duck stock, and mix till well incorporated. Pack duck into a glass or porcelain dish. Place a fresh sprig of Marjoram on top and drizzle with a little duck juice on top. Refrigerate. This can be made 3 to 4 days in advance. Serve chilled. Serve with flatbread crackers or a good baguette.

Fresh Cranberry Chutney • 3 cups fresh cranberries • 3 tbsp. water • ¼ cup yellow onions, minced • ½ tsp. ground ginger • 1/8 tsp. ground clove

• A pinch of cayenne • ½ tsp. kosher salt • 1/3 cup brown sugar (heaping 1/3 cup) • ¼ cup cider vinegar

Procedure: Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan, bring to boil and reduce to medium heat. Cook approximately 10 minutes or until mixture thickens and cranberries are soft. Refrigerate chutney uncovered until cooled, store in refrigerator covered. Yields approximately 1 ¾ cup.

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Paul Pellegrino

All Occasions Catering Fort Collins

Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce Makes 10 – 2 oz. portions.

• 1 lbs. crabmeat • 1/3 cup celery • ¼ cup onions • ¼ tbsp. fresh garlic

Remoulade Sauce • 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise • 2 tbsp. dill relish • 2 tbsp. ketchup • 1 tbsp. capers • ¼ tsp. tarragon • 1 tbsp. chopped parsley

Mix ingredients together and serve with crab cakes. Yield: 1.5 cups.

• ¼ red bell pepper • ¼ cup sherry wine • 1 oz. Butter • ¼ tbsp. Old Bay seasoning

• 3 oz. breadcrumbs • 1 egg, beaten • 1 tbsp. vegetable oil

Drop butter into the vegetable mixture and stir until melted. Stir in breadcrumbs until blended and soft. Add crabmeat and beaten egg, blending gently. Cool completely. Using the desired oval scoop, shape crab cakes. In a food processor, pulse celery, onions, garlic and peppers until coarsely combined. Transfer vegetables to saucepan and sauté until tender. Add sherry and boil. Season with Old Bay and take off of heat. Sauté crab cakes vegetable oil until golden brown on each size, approximately 3 minutes per side.

James Buehler

Catering To You by James Loveland

Smoked Duck Won Tons with Pomegranate, Cranberry Dipping Sauce Serves 6 Chef Buehler: I like to make these around the holidays because it is duck season. You can also substitute holiday turkey or ham for the duck.

• 8 oz. smoked Muscovy duck breast, chopped • 1 ¾ oz can water chestnuts, drained, rinsed and chopped • 1 small fresh red chili, chopped • 2 scallions, chopped • 6 large basil leaves, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 1 tsp. dry sherry • 1 tsp. soy sauce • 24 won ton skins • Vegetable oil for deep-frying To make the filling, mix together the smoked duck, water chestnuts, chili, scallions, basil, garlic, sherry and soy sauce. Spread out won ton skins on cutting board and spoon one portion of filling onto center of each won ton skin. Dampen the edges of won ton skins with a little water and fold them in half to form a triangle. Fold the two pointed ends in toward the center, moisten with a little water to secure and pinch together to seal. This will prevent the won ton from unwrapping. Heat oil in deep cast iron skillet or wok to 350 degrees. Deep fry won tons in batches for 2-3 minuets until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oil and drain on paper towel.

Holiday 2010

Dipping Sauce • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • 1 large shallot, finely chopped • 1 bag fresh or frozen cranberries • 1 cup pomegranate juice • ½ cup dark brown sugar • Salt and pepper In medium saucepan, heat oil over medium high heat. Add shallot, stirring until soft. Add cranberries, pomegranate juice and brown sugar, salt and pepper to taste. Bring to boil, and then reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring often until cranberries have burst and sauce is slightly thickened. Puree in blender and let cool.

continued from p. 18

visit these

Northern Colorado breweries distilleries|wineries

Distilleries Dancing Pines Distillery 1527 Taurus Court | Loveland, CO (970) 635-3426 www.dancingpinesdistillery.com Open Fridays from 4 to 7 p.m. or by appointment. Syntax Spirits 625 3rd Street, Unit C | Greeley, CO (970) 224-1248 www.syntaxspirits.com Open weekends during November. Call for hours.

Wineries Blue Mountain Winery Berthoud, CO | (303) 772-8942 www.coloradobluemountain.com Tours and tastings by appointment.

Snowy Peaks Winery 292 Moraine Ave. | Estes Park, CO (970) 586-2099 www.snowypeakswinery.com Open Monday – Wednesday 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday – Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 12:30 to 6 p.m. Ten Bears Winery 5215 Ten Bears Court | LaPorte, CO (970) 566-4043 www.tenbearswinery.com Call for a private wine tasting. Zephyr Cellars 119 E. Lincoln Ave. | Fort Collins, CO (970) 635-0949 Open Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Breweries

Anheuser-Busch Brewery 2351 Busch Drive | Fort Collins, CO (970) 490-4626 www.anheuser-busch.com/breweryFortCollins.html Open Thursday – Monday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Crabtree Brewing Co. 625 3rd Street #D | Greeley, CO (970) 356-0516 www.crabtreebrewing.com Open: Monday – Thursday 12:30 to 8 p.m., Friday 12:30 to 10 p.m., and Saturday 12:30 to 8 p.m. Equinox Brewing 133 Remington Street | Fort Collins, CO (970) 430-6489 www.equinoxbrewing.com Open Tuesday – Thursday 12 to 8 p.m., Friday – Saturday 12 to 9 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

HELPING YOU CLIMB THE PATH TO FINANCIAL SUCCESS CALL US to see how the new tax law changes effect you for 2010 and 2011

succeed

Big Beaver Brewing Company Ltd. 2707 W. Eisenhower Blvd, Unit 9 | Loveland, CO (970) 443-3733 www.bigbeaverbrew.com Open Friday 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday noon to 8 p.m.

LLP

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS & ADVISORS

www.rlrcpas.com FORT COLLINS 301 E. Olive St. Fort Collins, CO 80524 970.493.6869 970.692.5300

GREELEY 4631 W. 20th St Rd, Ste. 101 Greeley, CO 80634 970.304.9420

Rickards &Rulon, llp Long WINDSOR 825 Main Street Windsor, CO 80550 970.493.6869

CHEYENNE 1620 Central Ave, Ste. 304 Cheyenne, WY 82001 370.631.5598

The Fort Collins Brewery 1020 E. Lincoln Ave. | Fort Collins, CO (970) 472-1499 www.fortcollinsbrewery.com Open Monday – Thursday noon to 6 p.m., Friday-Saturday noon to 7 p.m. Grimm Brothers Brewhouse 547 N. Denver Ave. | Loveland, CO (970) 624-6045 www.grimmbrosbrewhouse.com Open Tuesday – Friday noon to 7 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. New Belgium Brewing 500 Linden St. | Fort Collins, CO (970) 221-0524 www.newbelgium.com Open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Odell Brewing Co. 800 East Lincoln Ave. | Fort Collins, CO (970) 498-9070 www.odellbrewing.com Open Monday, Tuesday & Thursday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Brew Pubs C.B. & Potts Restaurant & Brewery 1415 W. Elizabeth Street | Fort Collins, CO (970) 221-1139 www.cbpotts.com Open Monday – Sunday 11 a.m. to close, Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for breakfast. CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing 5 Old Town Square | Fort Collins, CO (970) 498-0483 www.coopersmithspub.com Pubside hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Estes Park Brewery 470 Prospect Village Dr | Estes Park, CO (970) 586-5421 www.epbrewery.com Open Monday – Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday – Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Rock Bottom Brewery 6025 Sky Pond Drive | Loveland, CO (970) 622-2077 www.rockbottombrewery.com Open Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight

Family Style

By Kay Rios

Cold weather and snow forecasts may bring the image of fireplaces and snuggling in for some, but many Colorado citizens still yearn for the outdoors.

f you’re one of those people, and want to get your family out into the fresh air, there are many ways to accomplish that even during the chilly months. This article features a few options available in Northern Colorado.

Sleigh Rides

The horse drawn sleigh probably ranks as one of the most popular images of snow-filled days. If you’re so inclined, the Beaver Meadows Stables offers two great rides, in a homemade sleigh drawn by two Belgian draft horses. The sleigh rides, which take place on the property of the Beaver Meadows Resort Ranch at Red Feather, can accommodate up to 12 people. One ride, the “cocoa and cookies ride,” begins in a meadow

and, after about 15 minutes, riders are dropped at the rustic homestead cabin where hot chocolate and cookies are served and kids can make ornaments for the large Christmas tree. “They spend about 45 minutes there, and some people even incorporate cutting down a tree with the ride,” says Josette Hanks, who until just recently owned the stable business with husband, Carlan. “Before guests arrive, the inside of the cabin is decorated and a tree is cut and set up. When the family comes with their youngsters, there’s construction paper, glue and other supplies so they can make their own ornaments. The tree turns into a beautiful exhibition from the ornaments they make.” The resort allows guests to cut trees on the property beginning on Saturday, November 20 this year. “We supply the handsaws and show them a designated area where they can cut their own tree,” says Hanks. “We give them a permit and they have to show that the trees were cut on private property. Permits cost $12 for trees up to eight feet and $20 for over eight feet.” After the activities, the sleigh appears again and takes the group back to the original site. Total trip time is about an hour and a half. Dress warm, Hanks advises. “Blankets for the sleigh ride are provided, but everyone should have gloves, headwear and a warm coat,” she says. “The homestead cabin doesn’t have electricity, but there is a fire going in a wood-burning stove.” Another option is a meadow sleigh ride that runs for about 20 minutes, and, says Clara Glaze, who took over the stable business this past October, winter

rides will be offered. “There are many roads that run through the mountains, and they are cleared enough that we can ride through them, although they will be snowy. We do both one and two hour rides. Wear good boots,” she says. She anticipates starting the sleigh rides around Thanksgiving. The cocoa and cookies ride runs $25 per person, and the meadows ride is $20 per person. Winter rides run $39 for one hour and $59 for two hours. Discounts are available for kids and groups. Reservations are recommended for rides, but are not necessary for tree cutting. Call (970) 231-1955.

Ice Skating

Strap on some ice skates and enjoy outdoor ice rinks created just for the winter season. Northern Colorado has several opportunities. The Ice Skating Rink at Centerra is open now through February 27, 2011. Centerra first offered the rink in 2005; but, with the economic downturn, they opted not to open in 2007 and 2008. It was once again opened for the 2009 and 2010 seasons. “We had such a great response that we not only wanted to do it again, but also decided to take it to the next level by adding ice skating lessons,” says Tiffany Villavicencio, marketing coordinator for The Promenade Shops at Centerra. The admission price, $4 for children 12 and under and $6 for adults, includes complimentary skates, helmet and a skate supporter/trainer (for the smallest guests learning to skate). Season passes are also available, at $40 for children 12 and under, and $60

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

for adults. Groups of 10 or more receive a 20 percent discount. The rink can also be rented for private parties. Call (970) 66-SKATE (75283) for more information. Old Town Ice Skating Rink in downtown Fort Collins is the perfect addition to a romantic evening out on the town or a family outing. A cooperative venture between the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), the Downtown Business Association (DBA) and the City of Fort Collins, the rink will be ready for skating on November 20, says Peggy Lyle, DBA programming and event director. “The benefit to downtown is immense,” Lyle says. “It’s a wonderfully friendly and affordable thing people can do in the heart of our city. It brings families together in a classic holiday event outside, and you don’t find that everywhere. It’s a great place to go on a date, come with your kids or your grandparents. It really serves the entire population. We build it from scratch each year.” Bring your own skates or rent hockey or figure skates in the kiosk next to the rink. Prices are $2 to skate and $1 to rent. The rink is open November 20 through January 30, with special hours in effect for Thanksgiving and Christmas. For holiday hours, private party information and other questions, call EPIC at (970) 221-6337. WinterSkate in historic downtown Louisville promises old-fashioned fun in a small-town setting at the Steinbaugh Pavilion. Boasting over 6,500 square feet of ice, WinterSkate features skate rentals, concessions and group discount rates. It’s a great venue for birthday parties, holiday parties and field trips. Visitors also enjoy traditional holiday music, free parking and free Friday night horse-drawn carriage rides. Open daily November 5, 2010 through February 14, 2011; holiday hours (Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s) vary. Call (303) 449-3137 for rates and group discounts.

Santa helps a young boy gain his footing on ice skates at the Old Town Ice Skating Rink.

Holiday 2010

HOL

Snowshoeing

Families can experience great outdoor fun and discover Colorado’s natural beauty by snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). “We offer ranger-led snowshoe ecology tours,” says Kyle Patterson, RMNP’s public information officer. The tours, which run two hours, offer participants a view of a subalpine forest as they learn about snowshoeing skills and winter safety. Two levels of walks are available. “If you are just starting out or have never really snowshoed, the beginner walk is more about learning how to be comfortable and how to turn around,” Patterson says. “It’s a great way to enjoy the snow. The intermediate level is more rigorous with elevation gains, so you have to have the ability to maintain a good pace on an uneven terrain.” On the east side of the park, accessible from Estes Park, beginner tours are led starting January 2, 2011, and run through March 27 on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. Reserve the spots by no more than seven days in advance, for six people or less per reservation. On the west side of the park, accessible through the Grand Lake entrance, both beginner and intermediate levels are offered. Beginner walks on the west side are led Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. December 11, 2010, through March 19, 2011 and Saturdays at 9 a.m., February 5 through March 19, 2011. For reservations on the east side, call (970) 586-1223 between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reservations for the west side can be made by calling (970) 627-3471. For reservations for more than six people, call (970) 586-3777. Participants provide their own snowshoes for all tours. RMNP also maintains dozens of trails where snowshoeing is appropriate. Trail maps are available at the ranger stations. Snowshoers should wear waterproofed

Snowshoe tours are a great family activity at Rocky Mountain National Park.

leather hiking boots or snowboarding boots and wool socks. Dress in layers that you can remove as your body heats up from the exercise. Don’t forget gloves, a hat and sunglasses. Snowshoe rentals range in price from $5 for kids to $10+ for adults per day, with discounts for additional days. Rentals are available at local outdoor stores such as The Wright Life, The Mountain Shop, Jax Outdoor

Gear, and Outpost Sunsport in Fort Collins; Mountain Rentals in Loveland; or the Estes Park Mountain Shop. Kay Rios, Ph.D., is a freelance writer based in Fort Collins. She loves winter sports and is quickly becoming a snowshoeing enthusiast, finding it less physically damaging than her previous experience in acrobatic skiing down the slopes.

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

HOLIDAY DINING

. HOLIDAY DINING

HOLIDAY

Bent Fork the grill

5971 Sky Pond Drive, Suite C-106 Loveland 80538 In the Promenade Shops at Centerra (Overlooking the Ice Rink) (970) 613-9333 Open 11:00 a.m. daily www.bentforkgrill.com Bent Fork Grill is the venue for holiday parties and this year is extra special with the addition of awardwinning executive chef Scott “Manno” Manning and his customized menus for all special occasions. Bent Fork’s private room and private dining areas are perfect for family and business gatherings. With the ice rink outside, the cozy fireplace and holiday decorations inside, it creates a one-of-a-kind spot for festivities. Bent Fork features an extensive wine and captain’s list. Also during the season one might try their special holiday martinis such as the Caramel Apple, Pumpkin Pie or the delectable Long Kiss Goodnight. Bent Fork’s private room is always in high demand. The private dining room can hold up to 38 people, but is ideal for parties of 15 to 25 people. Their semi-private area can hold up to 55 guests. Bent Fork’s customized menus are printed in-house for your special occasion. When you book a private party with Bent Fork the grill, you have your own designated personal serving staff and may decorate the room however you wish to make the event truly special.

Holiday 2010

The Gift of Beauty

Give the gift of beauty – a gift certificate for minimally invasive SmartLipo laser liposuction, with stunning results and quick recovery time. Gift certificates include a complementary consult. Or give a Laskin Medical Skin Systems consult/ treatment (valid Tuesdays only through January), designed to correct skin with sun damage, hyper pigmentation, acne, rosacea, fine lines, wrinkles and age spots.

Sweet Confections

This unique gift box contains a 1 lb. box of Assorted Fudge and a 1 lb. box of Milk Chocolate Almond Toffee. This gift is a delicious combination – a gift they will always remember! Pioneer Candy Company, 2350 E. Harmony Rd., Suite 104, Fort Collins, (970) 223-0350, www.pioneercandy.com

Pure LipoSculpt Center, 1601 Pelican Lakes Point, #101B, Windsor, (970) 545-3399, www.pureliposculpt.com

Great Local Art Events

Give your loved one an experience that’s unique and easy to order – tickets to quality local arts and culture events. Fort Collins arts organizations have a wide range of ticket prices. Visit www. ArtBeetFC.com to view a listing of arts and culture events and buy tickets. Beet Street, 19 Old Town Square, Suite 234, Fort Collins, (970) 419-8240

Theraderm Gift Basket

Give a holiday skin care gift basket from Theraderm. Basket includes Theraderm Skin Renewal System with Enriched Moisturizer, designed to reduce fine lines, rough skin and sun damage, and Soft & Smooth Body Restoration Crème, an indulgent product for smooth, supple skin. The basket is valued at over $200 but available for the holiday season for only $180. Front Range Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical Center of the Rockies, North Medical Office Building, Loveland, (970) 372-2310 www.frontrangeplasticsugery.com

Glam Gifts

Looking for affordable, glam gifts this season? She She Lounge offers a wide array of Anne Taintor items, jewelry, hair accessories, scarves, t-shirts, handbags, the Eminence skincare line, Jane Iredale cosmetics, OPI nail polishes, and much more, all in addition to a full menu of spa services! She She Lounge, 2601 S. Lemay Ave., Suite 26, Fort Collins, (970) 377-4181 www.sheshelounge.com.

Whimsical Light Designs

Brighten up the holidays with art glass accent lamps from The Light Center. There is something for everyone from animals to musical instruments. Priced from $29-59. The Light Center, 2725 S. College Ave., Fort Collins, (970) 226-3430, www.lightcenterinc.com

The Perfect Accessory

Brighton offers accessories that coordinate from head to toe. Brighton and other unique jewelry items, Miche handbags, and more are available at Just Dandy – guaranteed to thrill everyone on your gift list. Just Dandy, 212 West 17th St., Cheyenne, WY, (307) 635-2565, www.justdandyonline.com

Keep Your Eye on the Ball

For the favorite golfer on your holiday list: Bushnell-Golf’s premium laser range finders, the Tour V2 or the Medalist with PinSeeker technology. Both feature a compact size, are rainproof, range from 5 to 1,000 yards, 300 yards to flag, and have +/- 1 yard accuracy. No reflective prism required. Reserve today! Golf Shop Fort Collins, 4223 S. Mason St., Fort Collins, (970) 229-1929, www.golfshopfortcollins.com

Inspired Gifts

These Christian faith-based gifts are great for the holidays. Divine Gifts features a wide selection of gift items includes books, sacramental gifts, medals, jewelry, statues, art, greeting cards, patriotic items and much more.

The Gift of Design

Give the gift of true style: The Living Space now offers specialized interior design services to make your house into your dream home! Come see The Living Space’s exceptional design team for all your interior design needs. The Living Space, 123 N. College Ave., Suite 170, Fort Collins, (970) 484-2698, www.livingspacefoco.com

Divine Gifts, 1630 S. Lemay Ave. #8, Fort Collins, (970) 221-0141, www.divinegiftsftc.com

Luxury Travel

Give the gift of safety and convenience this holiday season – a ride home in the luxury of an ExecuCar chauffeured town car, great for special occasions. Super Shuttle, (970) 556-0250, www.supershuttle.com/en/DENAirportShuttleFortCollins.html

Holiday Happenings

Union Colony Civic Center tickets make great holiday gifts! Single tickets for spring shows go on sale December 1 at noon. Check out the holiday happenings at ucstars.com. Union Colony Civic Center, 701 10th Ave., Greeley, (970) 356-5000

in Northern Colorado It’s time to get your holiday groove on!

Pick one of these great events to get you in the mood:

– Santa Claus in Old Town, Wednesdays through Sundays 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Old Town Square, Fort Collins www.downtownfortcollins.com

– Pelican Lakes Turkey Trot, 8 a.m., Pelican Lakes Golf Course, Windsor, benefitting the Windsor Food Bank www.rmpeakfoundation.org

– Kids Kristmas, 12 p.m. to 3p.m., downtown Fort Collins, www.downtownfortcollins.com

– Fort Collins Club T-Day Run/Walk, 8:45 a.m., Old Town, Fort Collins www.fortcollinsclub.net – Loveland Turkey Trot, 8:30 a.m.,

McKee Medical Center, Loveland, benefitting the Stepping Stones Adult Day Care Program at McKee, www.bannerhealth.com

– Northern Colorado Medical Center

Turkey Trot, TBA, Greeley www.bannerhealth.com

– Catch the Glow Holiday Celebration & Evening Parade, 12 p.m., Downtown, Estes Park, www.estesparkcvb.com – Greeley Lights the Nights Parade, 12 a.m., Lincoln Park, Greeley

– Quota Club’s Holiday Home Tour, $12 per person in advance, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Estes Park www.estesparkcvb.com/calendar.cfm – Oratorio Society Winter Concert, Dec 4, 7 p.m., Dec 5, 2 p.m., Mountain View Bible Fellowship, Estes Park www.OratorioSocietyofEstesPark.info

– Wishes and Dreams Holiday Concert, $12 per person, 2:30 to 4:30 pm, First Methodist Church, Greeley, www.theblendchorus. org – Christmas Classic 4 Mile, 9 a.m., Foot of the Rockies, Fort Collins www.footoftherockies.com – A Brass Christmas – Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, adults $84, 7:30 to 10 p.m., Union Colony Civic Center, Greeley www.greeleychamber.com/calendar/month.php – Winter Wishes Ice Show, Fort Collins, for tickets call EPIC, 970-221-6683 – PJ Party with Santa, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Front Range Village, Fort Collins

– Christmas Open House at the Historic Avery House, Dec 4 & 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Dec 7 from 5 to 7 p.m., Avery House, Fort Collins, www.poudrelandmarks.com

– Abby’s Signature Concert Series: Christmas Concert, 10 a.m. & 5:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, Fort Collins www.pathways-care.org

– It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, adults $12 in advance, students $6 in advance, Friday & Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m., YMCA Hempel Building, Estes Park, www.fineartsguild.org

– 12 Days of Christmas Feast, prices vary based on meal, Glen Haven Inn, Glen Haven, www.innofglenhaven.com

– A Family Holiday! featuring TUBAChristmas, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., Old Town Square and Oak Street Plaza, Fort Collins www.downtownfortcollins.com

– KRFC Resolution Run 5k, 7 a.m., CSU Clark Building, Fort Collins, www.krfcfm.org – First Night Fort Collins, 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., downtown Fort Collins www.downtownfortcollins.com Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Check one thing offyour wish list this holiday season. Talk to a RE/MAX agent today to find the ultimate gift-your dream home.

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Business Spotlight

Resale Boutiques Focus on a

Vignette from Furniture Consignments by Kristynn

Green Sense of Style

As we move through the different seasons of the year, we come again to the winter holidays. At this time of year we are often focused on making the holidays warm and bright for the people we love, but we can remain conscious of being kind to our planet as well as our fellow man. The best gift we can give to our families and future generations is to take good care of the planet we all share. 44

By Connie Hein

n Fort Collins, there’s a wonderful and unexpected way to do that. You can help save the planet, save money or even make extra cash for holiday purchases at local resale consignment shops. Grab a mug of hot cocoa and snuggle by the fire as we take you on a tour of three of these warm, welcoming, eclectic havens. When visiting them, you’ll not only be delighted with the sights and sounds that ruminate throughout the shops, but will find the passionate business owners dedicated to educating people about living responsibly and with a sense of style.

Furniture Consignments by Kristynn

Resale consignment is becoming a very popular part of sustainable living, as proponents attempt to reduce their use of the Earth’s natural resources. Kristynn Jenkins at Furniture Consignments by Kristynn is one of those proponents. She says sustainability is the greatest benefit and one of the main reasons she opened her resale consignment business. “I love seeing beautiful used furniture going to new

Kristynn Jenkins, owner, Furniture Consignments by Kristynn

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homes to be enjoyed and treasured from one family to the next,” she says. Since purchasing the 6,300 square foot building on College Avenue, Jenkins has worked to make it a warm, inviting place to display medium to upper end new and gently used furniture, as well as some accessories, rugs and lighting. “I have the perfect building to set up small vignettes to help customers visualize how furnishings might fit into different spaces in their own homes,” she says. Jenkins enjoys helping customers envision alternative uses for unique pieces that bring interest to their homes. Recently, she sold a beautiful antique buffet, which would typically be used in a dining room, to a customer who wanted a piece of furniture with storage for a bathroom. “It was great to help the customer find a unique way to use this piece in a non-traditional but really functional application,” she says. Jenkins says she loves bringing together buyers and sellers in a way that is easy for both. “I like to take the hassle factor out of buying and selling gently used furniture.” In our area, Jenkins says there are very few choices for ways to do this and get a fair price. That’s where she comes in. She makes selling furniture so easy that people are encouraged to do that instead of discarding the pieces into landfills. “It helps people who are downsizing, moving or redecorating to find people who are looking for just the right piece for their home,” says Jenkins. She says with the 50-50 commission split, buyers usually make substantially more than they would on local internet selling sites or garage sales. Jenkins inspects and approves every item sold in her store and has a sense about what kind of furniture is

popular and selling well. “I am always looking for pieces that are current in style and color,” she says. “I look for this in both the wood and fabric.” She says mid-century pieces built in the 50’s are very popular right now and she can sell as many of those as she can get. “People seem to love the simple, clean lines of this type of furniture, so I’m always looking for those pieces.” The first step to consign items with Jenkins is to bring, send or post photos on her website at www. consignmyfurniture.com. “I can usually determine if a piece is right for the store by looking at photos,” she says. When a piece looks good for her shop, Jenkins draws up a 90 day contract between herself and the seller and decides on a price. Jenkins sets the price for each piece after doing research on the age, manufacturer, style and condition of the furniture. If consigners have pieces that don’t fit well in the store, she readily recommends other consignment shops that might be interested in the items. She says her prices are usually around half of what the piece would be new. During the ninety days, the items are marked down twice, and then the seller can choose to donate the item to charity or keep it.

D’Occasion Consignment Home Furnishings & Décor

Kathy Dremann at D’Occasion Consignment Home Furnishings & Décor, located north of Palmer House Floral, says their mantra is, “Resale rejuvenates our community.” She and business partner C.J. McGuire use recycled paper products and environmentally safe cleaning products that contribute to their sustainable business lifestyle.

Kathy Dremann and C.J. McGuire, owners, D'Occasion Consignment Home Furnishings & Décor

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

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Colorado Arts COUNCIL ON THE

One-of-a-kind items abound at local consignment shops. D'Occasion is pictured above.

“We focused on going green as our reason for opening this type of business, but we also reflect that in every part of our operation,” Dremman says. “Buying and selling pre-owned furniture supports the ecofriendly lifestyle and community. The sale and purchase of used furniture saves trees, reduces interstate and global transportation pollutants, minimizes the need for cold fusion plants, and decreases landfill waste.” Dremann says they carry not only pre-owned furniture and furnishings, but also unique gifts and collectables. “Our goal is to have a wide range of products and price points to meet the needs of a wide range of customers,” she says. They carry items ranging in price from $3 to around $3,000. “From the smallest piece to bigger items, all can be reused and enjoyed.” They price their items from a half to a third of the new retail value. Dremann says pricing items becomes an art that takes careful consideration and research. “With our 50/50 commission split, it becomes a win/win situation for us and the consigners,” she says. “We both make money in a safe, easy way.” She says there are many advantages to selling items in a resale shop. Sellers don’t have the hassle of trying to sell the item online and make arrangements for people to come to their homes to see the pieces. She says items that are displayed beautifully in their bright, open shop look better and are seen by hundreds more people. Their unique, hard-to-find pieces draw buyers. “One of the many things that bring people to our shop is our selection of beautiful one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items made by talented local artists.” She says these pieces add warmth and ambiance to the shop and give it a boutique atmosphere. Artists with original pieces are given a larger commission cut. They feature artists that work with jewelry, pottery, dichroic glass, small and large hand-carved wood pieces, photography and paintings. “We are committed to working with and supporting

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

local artists during these difficult economic times, and caring for our communities through wise environmental practices, non-profit programs and supporting its residents,” says Dremann. “One of our goals is to educate people about resale buying and selling,” she continues. “We are not a thrift store where all items are donated. We are a consignment shop with quality items that people would be proud to own or to give as gifts.” Dremann and McGuire hope to expand the business into other rooms in the space and eventually open another location in the Denver area. “We hope to have a business large enough to create jobs for people in this time of so much unemployment and give back to the communities in any way we can.” D’occasion is open seven days a week. Interested consigners may bring photos or download them to www.doccasionconsign.com. Dremann says consigners can also bring items to the shop during business hours, and they will look at them between helping customers.

Simply Beautiful

For Edie Barton, owner of Simply Beautiful, the consignment business is about connecting with people, forming relationships and touching people’s lives through beautiful, unique furniture and home furnishings. “Even though what I sell in my shop is just stuff, for me it is more, it has a history and a story to tell about where it originated and where it has been,” she says. She always asks consigners about the pieces they sell. And her buyers have come to look forward to fascinating stories that connect people who are selling with those that are buying – with her as a guardian of the pieces for a time. With her background and education in interior design, Barton creates arrangements that make everything she consigns look beautiful and interesting, so buyers might see things in a different way for use in their own homes.

Holiday 2010

Simply Beautiful's inventory changes regularly and reflects seasonal influences.

There is a social consciousness to Barton’s business philosophy as well. “It is in these times that we all need to think differently about our lifestyle. As we talk about saving our planet, we are past the steps of just recycling aluminum and to the point that we need to start using resale consignment to keep the economy moving and the planet greener.” Barton says she accepts all kinds of consignments, from small decorating items to large furnishings, to give her shop a boutique feeling, and buys and keeps pieces in storage to decorate for seasonal changes. Her consignment split is 50/50. She says pricing the pieces fairly is often the key to selling a piece. She does lots of research before pricing any piece. “I price them at what I believe to be a fair price for both buyer and seller, then lower it in small increments over the 90 days it is in the shop.” She says after the 90 days are up, the customer can have the piece marked down for quick sale, come pick up the piece, or leave the piece as part of her inventory. She has pieces of original artwork in her shop and likes promoting local artists, giving them a larger percent of commission. She also has rare items that people would not necessarily think of as something to be used to decorate, but which add interest to a home. “I have an antique Norwegian wheat thrasher that was brought in by a man who says it was hand carved out of wood with little rocks that are carved and sharpened by families who have been doing that same job for generations.” When displayed in the shop it truly looks like a handcrafted piece of art. Barton believes these unusual pieces not only bring interest to a home, but also educate us about different people and lifestyles. “It also preserves the customs of hardworking people in America and other countries to bring us all closer together.” Barton has been in her current location off Mulberry Street on Link Lane in Fort Collins for a year. She believes as people start having harder economic times, shopping and selling at resale

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

Edie Barton, owner, Simply Beautiful

shops becomes the practical thing to do to help each other and be ecologically responsible. She loves being part of that relational cycle. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Customers get more for their money and can afford higher quality furnishings than they would be able to do when buying new,â&#x20AC;? she says. Barton says consignment furniture shops are springing up across the country. One of the people encouraging this idea is Barb Tobias, known as the Thrift Talk Diva. She will be speaking and selling her book Tossed and Found in November at an open house at Simply Beautiful. For more information about the open house or consigning furniture, contact Edie at www.simplybeautifulllc.net. Items considered must be new or gently-used, highquality and classic furnishings in clean and working condition. Connie Hein is a freelance writer living in Windsor who has found a new shopping obsession (to help save the planet, of course).

Holiday 2010

Lydiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s STYLE Magazine

Style’s

Wedding Spectacular

Special Wedding

Section Inside you will find . . .

Wedding Tips and Trends

The Perfect Place to Say ‘I Do’

63 66

Wedding Directory

Say “I Do” to Great Wedding Photography

Fresh Wedding Designs for 2011

Bridal Bouquets Feature Color

Holiday 2010

Wedding By Laura Sebastian

Tips and Trends

On April 4, 1956, Grace Kelly boarded the SS Constitution and sailed from New York Harbor on a journey to the tiny 485-acre principality of Monaco for what would be one of the 20th century’s most famous weddings.

But, like many a bride, she had to tend to a few minor things first… such as pass a fertility exam, present her husband-to-be with a $2 million dowry and spend months negotiating the fine points of a marriage agreement that would transform her from movie star to princess. Then, following a week’s worth of protocol requirements, celebrations, and a solemn civil ceremony, it all finally culminated in a lavish Catholic ceremony. Six hundred guests looked on as she made her way down the aisle of Monaco’s Romanesque Cathedral of St. Nicholas in a gown created from a frothy mix of antique Valenciennes rose point lace, 25 yards of silk taffeta and 98 yards of tulle. A veil of seedpearls and appliquéd lace lovebirds came

in handy to hide the dark circles under her eyes, reportedly the result of sheer exhaustion brought on by all she had to go through just to say those little words: “I do.” Mercifully, the average bride doesn’t have to go through all that Princess Grace did. Though some couples still choose to adhere to the various traditions and requirements of their religion and place of worship, the days of rigid conformity and form over fun are over. Today’s trend is freedom, and that means couples can do exactly as they please. Many write their own vows and choose their own music; and, when it comes to location, guests may be as likely to find themselves witnessing nuptials atop a mountain as in a church.

Reverend Janet Kramer is someone who’s watched as the wedding ceremony has changed over the years. A Fort Collins resident since 1968, Rev. Kramer is the owner of Ceremonies Celebrating Love (www.vows4two.com), which offers couples an array of wedding choices, from religious and civil ceremonies to the custom-designed. Kramer has been performing weddings since 1995, when she was appointed as a Larimer County state court magistrate. In 2006, when she stepped down from the bench, she opened Ceremonies Celebrating Love. “As a magistrate, I was usually sending people to jail, so presiding over weddings was one of the few happy things I did, and I wanted to continue

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doing it,” she says. Regarding current trends, Rev. Kramer notes, “Couples nowadays want to have more input in their ceremony, they want to make it unique and personal. For instance, they like the ‘Ceremonies within the Ceremony,’ meaning they like to add an additional aspect to the ceremony itself. These options include the Unity Candle Ceremony [where a candle is lit by the bride and groom, symbolizing the unity their marriage brings], the Rose Exchange Ceremony [where each exchange a single red rose, a classic symbol of love], and the Sand Ceremony [where each pours a chosen color of sand into a vase so the sands are blended, representing their now-intertwined lives].” Rev. Kramer also sees trends in wedding gowns, music, and even the words used in the ceremony itself. “I see a trend toward secular weddings, with more modern music being chosen for ceremonies as opposed to the traditional Renaissance music that used to be the norm,” she says. “Although Pachelbel’s Canon in D Major, and Handel’s Water Music are always extremely popular. Couples still love traditions like having a maid of honor, bridesmaids, a best man, groomsmen, a ring bearer, but they request some of the traditional language be modernized. Rarely do couples request, ‘I now proclaim you man and wife, now it’s ‘husband and wife.’ And almost no one selects, ‘Who gives this woman to this man?” Now they choose, ‘Who presents this woman to this man?’ “And when it comes to dresses, most Colorado brides still chose a full-length gown, flowing but not too full,” Rev. Kramer continues. “Many choose strapless gowns, which have been in vogue for the past three years or so. And most, no mater if this is their first marriage or not, still choose a white gown, though I remember performing a wedding one year on the Fourth of July where the bride chose a sage green gown, which was lovely.” The world of weddings has changed everywhere, but there are some things unique to getting hitched in the West, especially when it comes to locations. Here in Colorado, we’re lucky to have a vast array of gorgeous outdoor vistas – mountains, fields of wildflowers in the spring, exotic ranches and chic ski lodges. Where traditional locations tended to be in houses of worship or perhaps your parents’ backyard, now they’ve opened up to include beaches, country clubs, resorts, hotels, public gardens, museums, and even yachts. Rev. Kramer, who has officiated in weddings all over Northern Colorado, says there are a number of trendy destinations: “Loveland’s Ellis Ranch [Event Center and Wedding Park] offers a horse-drawn carriage and is rustic, yet very romantic. The Tapestry House [a Victorian mansion on five acres, six miles outside of downtown Fort Collins in LaPorte] is lovely and has a tradition of laying a brick with the couple’s engraved name and wedding date on a pathway alongside the mansion. “Another really popular location is the old Flowers House in Bellvue. Sylvan Dale

Holiday 2010

Guest Ranch [an activity-filled dude ranch and bed and breakfast set in the foothills near Loveland] is popular. I remember officiating over a wedding there where the bride and her bridesmaids all entered the ceremony on horseback. [Other trendy and unconventional modes of transportation for today’s couples include exotic cars, motorcycles, sleighs and even hot-air balloons.] Each venue has different things they provide and there are just so many choices in our area.” But if it the choices seem overwhelming, there are excellent Internet sites to make things a whole lot easier. For locations, weddingsitesandservices.com is ideal. It focuses on services in Colorado (and New York and Connecticut), with specific links to hundreds of wedding- and reception-friendly venues in Colorado’s cities, rural and mountain areas. Start by downloading their free Wedding Planner, and then move on to the easy-to-navigate grids detailing the amenities at each venue, such as menu plans, outdoor and indoor options, party planners and even guest accommodations. You’ll find photos of the venues and even the delectable delights they can whip up for your wedding party. Yourweddingcompany.com is another popular site for planning, shopping, and trends. Hot from their presses is the trend of having a candy buffet or confection bar, which they describe as “candies or treats placed in varied sizes of glass containers and grouped on a table.” As the party winds down, the guests use silver spoons to scoop the treats into small bags or boxes to take home as party favors. They also report a “going green” trend, with many couples choosing organic fabrics, flowers, food and even invitations. But before emptying your wallet on the festivities, couples are wise to avail themselves of pre-wedding services, such as counseling with a professional or, if the couple is religious, at their place of worship. This allows a couple to iron out any undiscovered differences that could end up leading to trouble once rings are on the fingers. For example, Grace Kelly assumed that even though she was to become a princess, she would still be able to act in a movie now and then. Wrong. She found out too late that it was considered inappropriate for a princess to lower herself to acting, and her friends have been quoted as saying she forever mourned this loss of her career and creativity. So it’s a good idea to make sure you and your soon-to-be-spouse know where the other stands on important issues such as career goals, religious beliefs, money, children, sex and even health issues. A helpful site for advice on pre-wedding counseling is thefirstdance.com, which offers state-by-state resources and multiple articles with answers for pre-wedding woes and worries. The site is also the winner of Modern Bride magazine’s Trendsetter Award for “tackling the complex interpersonal relationships in wedding

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Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is a favorite Colorado wedding site, renowned for its scenic setting in the Rocky Mountain foothills.

planning.” After all the concerns about religious traditions, pre-counseling and any other services a couple chooses, additional help can be found at theknot.com, which touts itself as “the Internet’s most-trafficked one-stop wedding planning solution.” Here you’ll find wedding ideas and suggestions on such things as how to choose a flattering wedding dress style, what the honeymoon hot spots are, how and where to register, and even state-bystate links to local hairstylists, wedding venues, cake bakers and even DJs. It’s a cyberspace community populated by the wedding-obsessed. Rev. Kramer knows all too well the sheer wealth of information and advice available can make the calmest couple crazy, so she mostly refrains from giving advice to the about-to-be-wed. “The only advice I give is to tell them to avoid doing photos before the ceremony, which ruins the groom’s first sight of his bride coming down the aisle,” she says. “And that sight is so special to men, that first moment of seeing his bride in her gown. So I tell them to do the photos after the ceremony. The rest I leave up to them. To me, the wedding ceremony is a living, breathing thing; it’s ever changing. To be selected to be a part of such an important event is a tremendous honor for me. There’s no other day like a wedding day.” And what of Princess Grace? After an often tumultuous 26-year marriage, she and her prince had, in their last years, both learned the tricky art of compromise that is a hallmark of successful marriages. Upon her death, Prince Rainier was said to have wept, “It was a marriage of love. It truly was.” That is the best any of us can hope for.

Laura Sebastian, who lives in Fort Collins, has worked as a freelance writer for 11 years.

Holiday 2010

The Perfect Place to Say

“I Do” By Tracee Sioux

Every bride has her own vision of her dream wedding. Whether it’s a historic luxury lodge, a winter wonderland in a mountain chateau, dancing at a hip nightclub, a glamorous hotel ballroom, or a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage at a mountain ranch, there is a wedding venue for every wedding fantasy and every price point in Northern Colorado.

tyle spoke to five unique wedding venues to discover what they can offer husbandsand wives-to-be in terms of guest capacity, amenities, pricing, entertainment and ambiance. What we discovered is that the “I do” possibilities are as limitless as their imagination and budget. If brides are long on imagination and short on funds, it should be noted that they can make more of their bridal fantasies come true if their wedding falls on a weekday, instead of a Saturday.

Wild Basin Lodge & Event Center www.wildbasinlodge.com History and luxury meld seamlessly together for the perfect wedding locale at Wild Basin Lodge. The elegant lodge lies at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, and at 8,300 feet it affords breathtaking views of the mountains and the St. Vrain River.

Wild Basin Lodge & Event Center Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

The original structure was built in the early 1900’s as one of the first luxury establishments in the area. When it burned in 2000, the lodge was rebuilt and renovated in a manner that honors its historic traditions, while offering an event location of understated elegance and unparalleled customer service. “Once our couples come into the lodge, they fall in love with the warmth, the service and the natural beauty of the location,” according to Denice Kristoffersen, who owns the Lodge with her husband, Nils, and handles most of the day-to-day operations. “Wild Basin is a family run business where our couples become part of a group that forms long term bonds. Every day a couple will return to say hello, show us their children, their new house, talk to us about concerns, issues and life in general. The Wild Basin is more personal, smaller and dedicated to one-on-one customer service.” Wild Basin Lodge offers many options for the couple-to-be. The lodge has multiple indoor and outdoor options for every season – even options to allow for an outdoor wedding during the colder weather months. Ceremonies can take place outside, in the amphitheater overlooking the rushing St. Vrain, or in a romantic aspen grove with majestic mountain peaks presiding over the special occasion. The Lodge’s covered decks and the glowing rock fireplace also offer ideal spots to say “I do.” “Because the Wild Basin Lodge focuses on one bride a day, we can move the location in a minute, should the couple decide on a different site the day of their wedding,” says Denice. Handcrafted wood and stone throughout lend the lodge an air of casual elegance. Two large receptions rooms are designed to accommodate bigger groups in style. Downstairs, the St. Vrain room is the largest, featuring an authentic Irish pub, stained glass to set off the head table, a covered deck overlooking the river, and a capacity between 100-200 people. Upstairs, the Copeland room offers signature wood tables, magnificent views of Mount Copeland and access to surrounding covered decks. The Lodge’s small reception room holds 25 people, or the couple can choose to hold the reception on the covered decks overlooking the river, which can accommodate up to 100 people. The Lodge’s get-ready rooms are available for both bride and groom and include champagne and four-way directional mirrors. A kids room and high-speed wireless Internet is also available. Horse-drawn carriages are available for the wedding party. The Classic wedding package includes

Della Terra Mountain Chateau Photos courtesy of Verge Photography

Holiday 2010

ceremony and reception locations, a complimentary champagne toast, appetizers served to guests, a choice of two classic entrees, salad service, all linens, crystal, sliver and china, and more. The Enhanced package includes, among its options, floral arrangements for the wedding and reception, upgraded dinner options, two cases of house wine and a keg of domestic beer, and a Colorado Rose wedding cake. Buffet-style rehearsal dinners and day-after brunches are also available. Wedding package pricing starts at $85 per person from May through October and $80 per person from November through April. “Our pricing is unique, because we want weddings to be affordable for our clients,” says Nils. “We will customize any feature to fit your needs and still make your day a special one.” Among the cost saving options: a shorter reception, light appetizer wedding or even a dessert wedding. The other amenities offered at Wild Basin go above and beyond to make the day truly special and worry-free. Privacy is the first detail they boast; the secluded nature of their location means that the event, only one wedding per day, is uninterrupted and unhurried. The reception room is available for up to six hours, with an option to extend the celebration as late as you want. The wedding party can also crawl all over the 13-acre property to find the perfect spot for wedding and engagement pictures. And their award-winning cuisine promises to make the day sublime. “The Lodge offers gourmet meals prepared by a nationally-acclaimed chef,” says Denice. “Our food is prepared fresh from organic materials and made to order. Our flexibility allows the chef to slide with each couple if they need more time before the reception. And we do not charge extra for plated verses buffet or family style. Additionally, the Wild Basin Lodge offers an incredible variety of cuisines ranging from informal contemporary to elegant high-end dining.” Wild Basin is also committed to being green, from using reclaimed building materials and energy efficient appliances to offering zero waste wedding packages. Food waste even goes to a nearby wild animal sanctuary. Weddings and receptions are not required to book lodging at Wild Basin, though their stunning Honeymoon Suite (with Jacuzzi tub and private deck) and five lodge rooms are available to the wedding party, as well as countless nearby rental homes and other rooms. Current trends, according to Denice, include receptions that accommodate sophisticated tastes with high-end menus,

served in a non-pretentious, casual setting. The Kristoffersens are also responsive to requests or to making needed changes to the Lodge before they are even noticed by visitors, such as when Denice and Nils noted that the tarp covering musicians at the outdoor ceremony sites was detracting from the wedding photos. Their solution? They invested in two wooden structures that blend in with the natural surrounds. A bride’s passing comment about the difficulty in hearing music in the meadow also led to them bringing electricity to the meadow, so future couples would not have the same problem. “Because we are small and truly focus on our couples, we are flexible in most aspects of their wedding,” says Denice. “This flexibility, when combined with the stunning location and moderate price points, makes the Basin an affordable location for their wedding and is selected by couples from around the world.”

Della Terra Mountain Chateau www.dellaterramountainchateau.com Della terra translates from Italian as “of the earth,” and the Della Terra Mountain Chateau delivers, suddenly rising up before you from a winding road, breathtakingly suspended, majestic and magical. Surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park, just above Estes Park, the chateau’s Old World charm is secluded, exclusive and features stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in every direction. “We have natural, beautiful surroundings,” says Pam Amelang, one of the partners at Della Terra. “In any direction you look you’re seeing nature at its best, you’re surrounded by mountains and pine trees.” Della Terra Mountain Chateau offers 14 breathtaking luxury suites featuring fireplaces and private balconies with hot tubs, a lodge room with three-sided stone fireplace and waterfall, a private spa treatment room, a dry heat sauna, a styling salon, an espresso bar, a library and a theater room. “Della Terra has a professionally equipped salon; brides can bring their own stylists and make-up artists to do their hair and make-up,” says Amelang. Couples choose from several wedding ceremony and reception sites at the chateau. The Celebration Place features awe-inspiring vaulted ceilings, balcony overlooks and expansive arched windows framing majestic mountain views. The vaulted ceilings have the effect of an allencompassing canopy, a safe, yet luxurious, place to start a life together and forge a new identity as a couple. Surrounded by architecture this stunning, it will not be difficult to picture yourself as a princess worthy of her prince’s lifelong devotion. During the reception, the wedding couple presides from a raised platform, and there is a dance floor, full service bar, sound and lighting systems, live band area and a gourmet kitchen for an outside caterer. Drop lighting gives the room an ambiance of warmth and sophistication. The Devotion Place is a romantic natural outdoor

Hilton Fort Collins Above: Photo courtesy of Trystan Photography Below: Photo courtesy of Verge Photography

setting that many brides choose for their ceremony. For the poignant walk from maiden to wife, there is a stone bridge alongside a trickling brook, harkening fairytales from childhood. The ceremony site, the alter of committed love, takes place under towering majestic pines. Loved ones witness the transformation from singles to a couple from stone theater seating. The majestic MacGregor Mountain serves as an expansive photography backdrop. Devotion Place also has a hidden gazebo, ponds and musicians’ shelter, which add function to the magical event. After the ceremony, guests linger at The Gathering Place for appetizers and champagne toasts. The Gathering places features balconies and two large fireplaces. As part of the wedding package, couples begin their honeymoon in a luxury suite. Each suite is designed to celebrate and embrace the earth’s

elements, seasons and skies. Suites feature sitting nooks with arched windows, see-through fireplaces, soaking tubs with romantic water features, walk-through jetted showers and private balconies with hot tubs. Wedding guests are offered special room rates for the luxury suites that range between $265 to $325 in the summer and $195 to $225 in the winter. Additional guests can stay in the nearby cozy mountain cabins, built in the 1900s and updated with modern amenities like log siding, fireplaces, hot tubs, fully-equipped kitchens and baths, cable television and VCRs. Cabins can accommodate between two and six guests. For outdoor relaxation there are picnic tables, barbecue grills and fire rings. Cabin prices range between $85 and $354 per night. “We have very inclusive wedding packages with the venue rental: tables, glassware, chivari chairs, linens, napkins, champagne toast, access to the salon, beverage stations, bridal party and groom’s party preparation areas, a luxury suite for both the night before and the night of the wedding, rehearsal, set up, site management and more” says Amelang. Brides may bring a DJ or a band, caterer and whatever extra decorations they wish to make their wedding unique. Weddings range from $4,500 to $13,500, depending on the day of the week, and can accommodate 200 guests. The chateau also offers Elopement Packages and Intimate Celebrations, ranging between $1,500 to $3,500 for 10 to 50 guests. The couple can use the chateau for seven hours on their day and stay until 11 pm. Della Terra only holds one wedding per day, to maintain the exclusivity of the day. Earth-aware couples love that the partners built the chateau with the highest environmental consciousness. Originally the site of an RV park, constructing the building and the surrounding property caused only three trees to be removed. Campsites, which were previously on the property, were reconditioned for parking, and golf carts are used to transport guests from their cars along the mountainside to the chateau. The building was designed to be very earth-conscious, with solar panels providing energy for domestic hot water and the radiant floor heating system. The air conditioning system is a high-efficiency ductless mini split system. LED lighting is located throughout the building.

Hilton Fort Collins www.hiltonfortcollins.com For a grand ballroom wedding, there is no place in Northern Colorado quite like Hilton Fort Collins. The all-inclusive pricing and one-stop planning takes a great deal of stress out of a wedding. In fact, Hilton Fort Collins makes planning a wedding seem a little like playing “wedding” as a girl. “I actually have a room here in the hotel, I call it The Playroom, with all of our linens and centerpieces,” says Kate Reid, sales and catering manager. “The brides can try different combinations and put it together exactly how they want it

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Sunset can host from 35 to 300 wedding guests without feeling crowded. Weekend weddings run between $2,500 to $3,000 to rent the room, less for weekdays. The venue also charges for staffing, per person catering (dependent on the food costs of the menu) and an 18 percent coordinating fee. “We’ve done a lot of 35 to 50 person events where half the room is dining seating and the other half is our dance floor and stage,” says Owens. “Our larger size for wedding receptions is 250 to 300, which still leaves a lot of room for people to get up and walk around.” A huge attraction to Sunset for many couples is the level of service. “We’re a local, family-owned and run business,” says Owens. “When a bride books with us, you meet with us, we cook your food, we’re personally at your event. Someone claiming, ‘I didn’t see the list’ doesn’t happen with us, because I made the list. We’re full service.”

instead of trying to imagine it.” Weddings at Hilton Fort Collins are all-inclusive events, with most services provided in-house. Pricing is based on a per-person charge ranging from $46 to $100. A reception can range from a small, intimate affair of eight to a lavish Grand Ballroom event for over 700 guests. “Our all-inclusive package pricing includes everything from chair covers to food and planning,” Reid says. “They pick a menu and we take care of the rest, which makes the wedding day hassle free for everyone.” “Our executive chef, Patrick St. Clair, can create anything from a chocolate reception to a full five course meal,” she continues. “We have menus to give people ideas, but we can custom design anything to work within their budget.” Every spring, Reid throws an open house event for all couples-to-be. “I put on a wedding for the brides and grooms. They can come in to taste the food and make their wedding day selections while seeing their dreams coming true,” says Reid. The hotel also offers indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Outdoor ceremonies are held across the street at Gardens on Spring Creek, the community botanical gardens. Indoor ceremonies are held in the beautiful Garden Atrium in the hotel. The hotel also offers rehearsal dinner options, private space for a family brunch or bridesmaid tea luncheons, and hospitality suites for guests staying in the hotel. Hilton Fort Collins offers specialty-designed menus for all these special occasions. Hilton is proud to offer out-of-town guests accommodations, including King Deluxe Rooms with mountain views. The success of every event depends greatly on the team of professionals chosen to bring it all to life. Reid and her team can guide a bride and her family quickly and efficiently to exactly what they are looking for and save them much time and energy in the process.

Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch www.sylvandale.com

Sunset Event Center and Catering www.sunsetevents.com Sunset Event Center and Catering is located in the heart of Fort Collins, in the thriving downtown area. Having once been a nightclub, the event center provides an exciting atmosphere and ambiance. “We have a 900 square-foot, built-in hardwood dance floor,” says Dawn Owens, owner and manager of Sunset. “Back in the day, this used to be a nightclub, so we’ve got lighting and sound, disco balls and a fog machine.” Strung with romantic lights overhead and featuring a parquet wood dance floor, a full service bar, a professional sound and lighting system, a raised ceremony stage, and intimate dining areas, Sunset is sure to provide a romantic and thrilling evening for bride and groom and their guests. “We’re upscale and modern, but with kind of a retro feel,” says Owens. The proximity to downtown Fort Collins proves convenient for out-of-town guests, with lots of

Sunset Event Center and Catering Photos courtesy of Harper Point Photography

parking, nearby hotels, shopping and nightlife. Sunset provides one-stop shopping for their brides. “Our venue offers all-inclusive packages, which is somewhat unique for brides. We have an in-house DJ, an in-house baker, and we do all of our own catering. We include unlimited sodas, lemonade and coffee so couples can have a cash bar and still feel like they are hosting their guests,” says Owens. “We provide China, flatware, centerpieces, vases, chairs, tables and linens.” Couples have full decorating freedom, barring bubbles, drippy candles and glitter confetti.

Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is nestled in the picturesque Colorado foothills, cuddled along the banks of the Big Thompson River. Years of experience combined with beautiful scenery and the idyllic elegance of three unique wedding and reception locations assures an unforgettable experience. The Daddy J area, located at the bend of the Big Thompson River, includes a 30 by 60 foot covered pavilion that provides a scenic outdoor wedding location. Coupled with the M&M Golden Amphitheater, which is beautifully landscaped with grassy lawns, colorful flowers and brilliant aspens, this venue makes for truly lasting wedding memories. The historic two-level Jessup Lodge is a favorite indoor location. It offers an antique dining room with a spacious and comfortable reception area. Natural wood fireplaces and an outside porch and deck overlooking the Big Thompson River provide a warm, intimate setting. Featuring log trusses, a stone wall fireplace, a covered wooden porch and a reception area, the Heritage Room is a newer space that invites rustic yet elegant weddings or receptions. The Heart J Pond, a heart-shaped pond surrounded by brilliant flowers, is a particularly romantic setting. “What I’ve found this past year is that many couples prefer to have both their ceremony and reception outdoors,” says Sue Bennett, Sylvan Dale’s wedding coordinator. “We have several outdoor wedding and reception sites. Couples coming to the ranch see how beautiful it is and love that such a serene and elegant place is located so close to Loveland. Though not far from town, guests still get the feeling of getting away.” With the natural beauty of mountain views, the Big Thompson River winding through the property, abundant colorful wild flowers, and the Heart J Pond, there’s virtually no need to decorate with floral arrangements, taffeta and tulle.

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“We offer unique activities like pond fishing and horse-drawn hayrides,” says Bennett. “Fishing, gear and attendants are provided to allow guests to fish during the event. Many guests love the unique experience of catching rainbow trout while still in their tuxedo or dress!” More adventurous couples can ride horseback in their wedding whites and tuxes to a beautiful mountain location, where the wedding ceremony is performed on horseback. Couples have even ventured forth in winter, which makes for stunning wedding portraits, Bennett says. Sylvan Dale can create customized wedding packages to meet most budgets and special needs. They also offer “green” weddings. Prices for a standard Saturday summer wedding package run from a $64 to $84 plate charge per person.

Tracee Sioux is a Fort Collins writer. She can be found at TheGirlRevolution.com and www.linkedin. com/in/traceesioux.

Holiday 2010

Say â&#x20AC;&#x153;I Doâ&#x20AC;? to Great

Wedding Photography Weddings are all about the moment, and one well-timed snap of the shutter can capture what words sometimes fail to express. Style asked local photographers to share the photographs that sum up the romance, exuberance and emotion of a perfect wedding day.

The bride and groom catch a kiss on home plate at Coors Field. Photo taken in August 2008. Heidi Muller Photography, www.heidimuller.net, (970) 282-8408

The bride and her bouquet light up the piazza outside a church in Santa Margherita, Italy. Taken June 2010. Ken Sandberg, Sandberg Photography, www.sandbergphotography.net, (970) 480-PHOTO (7468)

Bride MalloryÂ and groom Jesse share a getaway kiss in a vintage car after tying the knot at Picnic RockÂ on June, 2010. Kira Friedman, Harper Point Photography, www.harperpoint.com, (970) 797-2063

Candid moments are a huge part of every wedding, making each wedding unique. This image captures the laughter of the bride and groom during the toast. Taken September 2003. Warren Diggles Photography & Design, www.warrendiggles.com, (970) 412-0583

Bride Kari and groom Kevin share a special moment before their reception. Photo taken June 2010 at the Hilton Fort Collins. Nicole Habel, Image Gallery, www.imagegalleryinc.com, (970) 218-1652

Unaware the camera was on them, the couple catches a private moment. Photo taken at Custer State Park, in the Black Hills of South Dakota, August 2009. Rod Pentico, Pentico Photography, www. penticophotography. com, (970) 223-9913

The ringbearer's priceless expression is captured as he carries the ring down the aisle at the McCreery House in Loveland. Photo taken July 2007. Marcus Edwards, Four Feathers Photography, www.ffp-images.com, (970) 203-4586

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Holiday 2010

Fresh

W EDD I NG DES I GNS

2011 According to brides.com, the top wedding gown trends for 2011 include supersize skirts with three-dimensional floral details; corset bodices for an hourglass shape; lace, flower, appliquĂŠ, or embroidery detailing from head to toe; and details like pearls, shimmery tulle and sequins. The website theknot.com adds that tea-length dresses, sheer straps, sweetheart necklines and off-the-shoulder styles will also be popular in 2011.

The Alma gown (above), part of the Pronovias Glamour collection, is a fit and flare style in Torino taffeta that features a drop waist style, a very popular silhouette for 2011. Feminine pleats and drapes make a dramatic statement on the crisp, white material. The Fedra gown, part of the Pronovias Fashion collection, is a thin, light wedding gown in a fluid, sheer Spanish lace with mermaid cut. The silhouette of feminine curves and floral appliquĂŠ details make this dress a gorgeous choice. Prices range from $1,100 to $2,400. Dora Grace Old Town Fort Collins | (970) 691-4780 www.doragrace.com

Tacori, jewelry designer to the stars, debuts a new Tacori Classic. The engagement ring boasts the signature reverse crescent silhouette design and shimmering diamonds accenting the center diamond and band.

This wedding gown is a custom design for Loveland musician Wendy Woo. The gown is a silk dupioni shell and polyester faille contrast lining, with inner structure in the bodice for support and in the skirt for body and movement. The burgundy lining coordinated well with Woo’s colors and the informal tone of the wedding, and the ivory silk was a gorgeous choice for her skin tone and coloring. Photography by Matthew Dickstein.

KaiT by Kaitlyn Thomas: Custom alterations, fine tailoring and distinctive designs. 149 W. Mountain Ave., Fort Collins (970) 232-9308 www.kaitdesign.com

The Transcend engagement ring by Hearts On Fire: The new “classic” engagement ring is crafted in 18kt gold and stunning Hearts On Fire Diamonds. Starting at $3,500 in Platinum. Jewelry designs available at Sather’s Leading Jewelers | 300 E. Foothills Parkway Fort Collins | (970) 223-0256 | www.sathersjewelers.com

This fairytale gown is a fashion forward ball gown from Allure Bridals, featuring a deep sweetheart neckline, embellished with threedimensional flower and vine pattern, ruche taffeta band around the natural waist, and a chapel length train, $1200. Feathered hair accessory from En Vogue Bridals $30. Photography by Jeanine Thurston Fototails Photography.

Blushing Bride 424 Main Street, Windsor | (970) 686-9709 www.blushingbridecolorado.com

Bridal Bouquets feature

Color

Susan Stockwell, Wedding & Events Designer for Palmer Flowers, shares wedding floral trends for the new year: “In 2011, wedding flowers will take on a natural vintage look, with an organic presence. This may include all green foliages with natural textures of curly willow, branches and berries or bright, fun looks with unusual color tones, like a combination of hot pinks with lemon yellow and royal blues with violets. Soft grey will play a role in wedding attire with accents of strong colors, and designers are seeing a big comeback with the color navy, which also lends itself to the regal vintage look. Brides want the flowers in their bouquet to compliment any flower embellishments on their wedding gowns. These may include roses, peonies and ranunculus.”

This stunning winter bouquet, in shades of vibrant red, includes anemones, dahlias, roses, tulips, calla lilies and orchids, accented with cedar and dried lotus pods. Paul Wood Florist 111 W. Olive St., Fort Collins (970) 482-9121 www.paulwoodflorist.com Photo courtesy of Kiva Photography.

Clutch style bouquet features green hydrangeas, red hypericium berries, cranberry calla lilies, orange safflower, Tressor 2000 roses and Aranda orchids. Palmer Flowers 3710 Mitchell Dr., Fort Collins (970) 226-0200 205 N. College Ave., Fort Collins (970) 482-1481 www.palmerflowers.com

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BLACK TIE BOWLING August 28 Chipper’s Lanes-Horsetooth :: Fort Collins It was a fun evening for the nearly 200 bowlers and non-bowlers at this 5th annual event. Forty-eight teams vied for awards, including high team score, best-dressed team and the strike challenge. Great food, libations and a silent auction added to the festivities. Proceeds from the evening benefitted CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Larimer County and Canyon Concert Dance Center and their programs committed to improving the lives of children in Northern Colorado. Photos courtesy of Y. Cats Productions.

Jill Liken, Kim Klingman, Leslie Piper, Nicole Brown

Wanda & Larry Knipp

Victor & Judy Bejarano, Helene & Jim Frucci

Kim Lang, Karac Westphal

Lydia Irvin, Dani Grant, Emily Schlehuber

Jacque Damptz, Jamie Winn, Heather Pawlak

C AT T L E B A R O N ’ S B A L L September 18 :: The Barn at Rick Montera’s :: Greeley The Cattle Baron’s Ball, this year celebrating their 18th anniversary, provided an evening of western elegance for a capacity crowd of over 700 guests. The theme this year was “For a Few Dollars More … We Can Find a Cure,” and guests enjoyed a full evening of enjoyment including Rio Bravo Canyon Casino, Senor Saguaro Margarita Bar, Bronze Man photos and opportunities to bid on wonderful items in both the silent and live auction including a pair of new Justin Boots autographed by Warren Buffet. The exceptional evening raised $234,000 for the American Cancer Society (ACS) and their programs of research, education, advocacy and patient services. The Cattle Baron’s Ball, through its 18-year history, has raised a cumulative total of $3,489,000 net dollars for ACS. Photos courtesy of Flare of Art.

Jimmi Jo & Rick Montera

Christy Shirazi, Nonie Sheel

Larry & Linda Burkhardt

Catherine Doering, The Man with No Name (aka Mark Alan), Terri Runyan, Kaye Monfort

Sean Conway & Rebecca Koppes-Conway

Patty & Chris Castilian

Kevin & Julie Ochsner

Brenda & Richard Lucio

Sandy & Jerry Helgeson

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

A lpha center 2 5 th anniversary September 23 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins More than 400 guests gathered to celebrate Alpha Center’s 25th Anniversary. “Celebrating 25 years of sharing a hope and a future” was the theme of the evening. A historical documentary was shown, former Executive Director Sharon Hindman spoke, and current Executive Director, Jenny Langness cast a vision for the future. The $130,000 raised will help this Christian medical clinic and their programs of medical services, support and education.

Matthew & Whitney Johnson

Ned & Sharon Balmer

Jenny Langness

Bob McClelland

Barbara Clark, Laura McClelland

a vintage affair September 24 :: Drake Centre :: Fort Collins Nearly 300 guests enjoyed more than 150 fine wines and beer, provided by local purveyors at this 9th annual classic wine tasting. Distinctive cuisine, live music, both a silent and live auction, and a fashion show presented by local boutiques added to a great evening. The more than $10,000 raised for Pathways Hospice will go to their programs and services to provide exceptional end-of-life care and grief and bereavement support, education and counseling to community members struggling with the loss of a loved one.

Muriel & Bruce Hach

Cathi & James Varlamos

Kacie Callahan, Sol Mascarenas

Tom & Terest Shanley

Jodi Merrill, Jim Powell

Jason & Lauren Maines

Holiday 2010

come H ell or high water – “ B oulevard B lues ” September 25 :: The Ranch First National Bank Exhibition Building :: Loveland An incredible line-up of blues talent thrilled the sold-out crowd of more than 600 at this 6th annual event. Guests mixed and mingled while enjoying appetizers, libations, a cigar lounge, casino games and a silent and live auction. Proceeds to benefit the American Red Cross Northern Colorado Chapter and their mission to provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Photos courtesy of Steve Olson Bob & Sally Coonts, Carol Ann Hixon, David Massey, Gary Hixon, LeAnn Massey

and richardthephotographer.com.

Anna Yancey, Drew Yancey, Greg Yancey, Ellen Yancey

Kent Obermann

Janice & Patrick Mount

Garet Scranton, Mollie Everitt, Lane Everitt, Merrissa Scranton

mr . blackwell : a retrospective October 22 & 23 :: Fort Collins Country Club & Avenir Museum Gallery :: Fort Collins The Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising at CSU sponsored a donor reception Friday for 60 guests in conjunction with the exhibition Mr. Blackwell: A Retrospective. The exhibition of 32 glamorous gowns opened in the Avenir Gallery on Saturday with a private reception followed by the public opening. Mr. Blackwell was a designer best known for his annual Worst-Dressed Women list. Guest curator and couture designer Ali Rahimi and friends of Mr. Blackwell, including Broadway star Carol Channing and his muse Beverly Cohen, also attended. Proceeds from the event support students and Avenir Museum programming in the Department of Design and Merchandising at CSU. Photos courtesy of Bill Cotton.

Beverly Cohen, Mary Littrell

Mary Kay Turner, Diane Jones

Marla Trumper, Camy Cooney

Eulanda Sanders, John Barle, Megan Leonard, Ali Rahimi

Leo Ward, Joyce Aimee, Beverly Cohen

Carol Channing, Linda Carlson

Nancy Hartley, Jack Curfman

Lenno Wells

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

1 0 th annual hope lives ! gala October 23 :: Hilton :: Fort Collins Nearly 500 guests stood in ovation for the 18 breast cancer survivors as they graced the stage along with their escorts to celebrate life at this 10th annual signature event. Six individuals and businesses were also honored with a Champions of Hope Award for their commitment and outstanding professional service to women diagnosed with breast cancer. The more than $91,000 raised will benefit the Hope Lives! Lydia Dody Breast Cancer Foundation to support, strengthen and empower those touched by breast cancer in Northern Colorado with free services.

David Venable, Melissa Evans

Randy & Debbie Milan

Bill West, Beverly Donnelley

Holiday 2010

Jane Barry, Mitch McKee, Megan Richter

Douglas Beard, Roula Spanos, Spiro Palmer, Jim Palmer

Amy Grimes, Sara Swarbrick, Bernie Keefe, Renee Price

Aidah & Harry Poehlmann

Ken Sargent, Shawna & James Mayberry

Paul & Teresa Mueller

Matt & Emily Shoup

Jann Simmons, Deb Hersh

Melissa Merritt, Miho Scott

Ally & Andrew Flanscha

Julie Sather-Browne, Duncan Browne

top cat & tails “ B one - anza ” gala October 23 :: Marriott Hotel :: Fort Collins More than 350 guests donned their cowboy hats and boots and attended the 12th annual Top Cat & Tails event. The fun, tail waggin’ evening was filled with gourmet food, live entertainment, bidding on over 355 silent and live auctions items, and the highlight, the “paw-studded” pet parade of 14 adoptable animals. More than $91,000 raised at this event will benefit Larimer Humane Society, helping homeless animals in Northern Colorado through LHS animal care, placement programs, new shelter projects and medical and laboratory equipment to help place mature adult animals. Photos courtesy of Heidi Muller Photography.

Violet & Thomas Gorell, Carole Egger, Ray Hogler

Candi Calkins, Andrea Schaefer, Ryan & Melissa Schaefer

Larry & Suzanne Pullen

Linda Buffington with Larz, Bonnie Szidon

Chris Kelly, Ryan Kramer, Judy Calhoun, Tom Livingston

Sharon Austin, David Arko

Drake & Christy Johnson

Pete Shattuck

Lydia’s STYLE Magazine

top chef northern colorado October 23 :: Community Center :: Evans More than 225 guests enjoyed an evening of fine food as four chefs competed for the coveted title of Top Chef Northern Colorado. Five celebrity judges sampled the chefs’ main dishes and cast their votes in the friendly competition. Awards for the evening included Top Chef, People’s Choice Award, Best Presentation and more. The exciting evening also included a video about A Kid’s Place and a silent auction. The nearly $14,000 raised will benefit A Kid’s Place CASA program and Child Advocacy Center to help children of Weld County who are victims of abuse and neglect.

Christine Mellin, Lea Faulkner

Holiday 2010

Gwen Schooley

Greg & Amber Denzel

Kevin Royal, Deb Pilch, Tonya Malcom, Dawn Couch, Brandon Luna, Chad Witt

Craig Secher Answering the Cry in the Dark By Laura Sebastian

n the evening of December 1, hundreds will gather in Fort Collins to celebrate the lighting of the 50-foot-tall “Night Lights” Christmas tree. In its 12th year, this is both a celebration and a fundraiser, meant to signify brightening the dark lives of Larimer County’s abused and neglected children. Night Lights is the largest annual fundraiser of Realities for Children (RFC), an organization founded in 1995 by Craig Secher. Since its inception, RFC has gained nationwide recognition and won countless awards for its efforts to aid children who would otherwise have fallen through the cracks of the vastly overloaded and overworked child protection services community. And Secher, 42, knows firsthand just how burdened that community is. “Before starting RFC, I worked as a counselor for abused children, then as a child protection case manager for Larimer County Department of Human Services (LCDHS),” Secher says. “My eyes were opened to the fact that the needs of a lot of children were not being met. That isn’t a criticism of the people who work in the system. The people who work on the frontlines – caseworkers, child protection workers – are the heroes of our community. But there is only so much they can do, only so much funding available.

“My goal in starting RFC was to empower the agencies we already have in place and provide even more resources,” he continues. “We do this through community education, special youth activities, sponsorship support, and emergency funding for abused and at-risk children in Larimer County, when no other resources are available. We’re not a quick alternative source of help – we are the last stop. We are the safety net for those kids.” The path to working in the field of child protection had its roots in Secher’s childhood. Even from a young age, he felt a calling towards helping the young. “Growing up, I’d witnessed children who were being abused, and once you see it, you can’t get it out of your mind,” he says. “It’s not a choice, you must help.” A Wisconsin native, Secher grew up on his family’s produce farm, where he worked with his parents and younger brother and sister until leaving to attend the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point, where he graduated in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Human Services. It was during a summer bartending job in Estes Park that he fell in love with Colorado and, upon graduation, moved to Fort Collins. He began his career as an addictions counselor and a counselor for children suffering from emotional disturbance due to child abuse, holding positions at Loveland’s Center for Therapeutic Learning (now the Namaqua Center), Fort Collins’ Larico Youth Homes (now Turning Point), and the Jacob Center. In 1993, he joined the LCDHS as a case manager, which led to the founding of RFC. In its 15 years, RFC has grown enormously, and it now comes to the aid of approximately 3,000 Larimer County children annually. As Secher himself is innovative, so also is RFC, being unique in how it raises money. “The non-profit world is often in competition for funds, but we wanted to create a collaborative, united front,” Secher says. “We’re not a competitor with other agencies. We have traditional donations from individuals, but our overhead costs are covered by the 140 local businesses that underwrite us. They pay a monthly membership fee

as underwriters and RFC then promotes and advertises these businesses, encouraging consumers to do their shopping and work with these businesses that are making a difference.” The model has been extremely successful; and, in the future, Secher sees RFC and organizations like it spreading elsewhere. “I think it’s inevitable that a design like ours will be duplicated in other states and counties,” he says. “Just recently, I was approached by Weld County judges and magistrates who would like us to expand our reach to help them as well. As for RFC today, I hope for a growing membership base because I’d like to have every emergency request funded. Because of the economy, there’s been a decrease in funds for Child Protective Services, so the Emergency Fund at RFC is getting hit harder.” Though his work is often heartbreaking, Secher finds solace and inspiration in many things, including his family: daughter, Jordan, 13; son, Jake, 11; and two dachshunds, Harley and Hank. His wife of 16 years, Molly, shares his passion and works alongside him at RFC as a membership manager. Of parenthood, Secher says, “I think the two greatest things you can give your children are roots and wings.” When not with his family, he can be spotted cruising the mountain roads on his Harley Davidson Road King. “Our fundraising events also help keep me going,” he says. “We have a tremendous membership and volunteer family. So I guess you could say the community itself inspires me. But I think that what truly keeps me going is best reflected in a quote by Martin Luther King, Jr.: ‘Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?’ “What I would like people to take away is the inspiration to get involved in whatever it is they care passionately about,” Secher continues. “In my years in child protection, I’ve seen lives changed for the better and lives literally saved. Often it was due to the simplest acts of caring.” For information: www.RealitiesForChildren.com For donations to December 1st’s fundraiser, visit: www.Giveanightlight.com Laura Sebastian, who lives in Fort Collins, has worked as a freelance writer for 11 years.

in•no•vate – v. 1. to introduce something new; make changes in anything established, 2. to alter. Style invites you to nominate your Community Innovator. Send suggestions to angie@stylemedia. com for consideration.

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