ReFINEd St. John's Spring Volume 2 Issue 1 2016

SPRING 2016 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

ST. JOHN’S/AVALON

REMEMBERING RON HYNES FILM BRINGS MAUD LEWIS’ LIFE TO THE SCREEN SPECIAL FEATURE WEDDINGS

MERCEDES-BENZ ST. JOHN’S

TOP SERVICE AND LUXURY VEHICLES

WHAT MOM WANTS MOST

40 Eastland Dr., St. John’s 753.4777 www.dsfgranite.com

MESSAGE

FROM THE PUBLISHER ANDREW FREAKE

S

pring is upon us. This is a time of renewal and reinvigoration for not only the island, but also its people. As we shake off the cold confines of winter and move into what many people consider their favourite time of year, ReFINEd takes pause to remember someone we’ve lost in recent months. Although the celebration and service is long over, I felt it imperative that we recognize the “Man of a Thousand Songs,” Mr. Ron Hynes. Read inside for our tribute.

We also feature one of the province’s top trios, The Once, who are just home from a recording session and tour in Australia. Also, for those of you tying the knot this spring, we have compiled a group of people and companies who are sure to make your special day one to remember — read more in our special wedding feature. Mercedes-Benz graces our cover and is featured in our Motoring section. New GM Braden Bradley and his team certainly bring new meaning to service and style.

I hope you enjoy reading our publication as much as we enjoyed putting it together. If you have a story idea or think of a company that is a true fit for our magazine, by all means, drop us a line.

Andrew

FIRST WORD With ReFINEd editor LORI MCKAY

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remember the day I stumbled upon a room in the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and discovered the tiniest of tiny homes, with every surface painted in brilliant folk art. The house, which belonged to Maud Lewis — one of Canada’s bestknown folk artists — and her husband Everett, was moved to the museum for restoration and preservation after their deaths. The colours, rural themes and the amazing small woman behind it all, tell an unforgettable tale.

Newfoundland’s Mary Sexton, Mary Young Leckie and Ireland’s Parallel Film Productions have come together to co-produce a movie that will bring this amazing story to the big screen and a much wider audience. Maudie, filmed in the Goulds area of St. John’s, stars big name actors Sally Hawkins and Ethan Hawke as Maud and Everett. When released, the movie is sure to put a spotlight on not only Maud’s life, but the province as well. Find out more in the pages of this issue.

Enjoy!

Lori

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ST.JOHN’S/AVALON

Spring 2016 Volume 2 Issue 1 Publisher Andrew Freake andrew@refinedmagazine.ca Editor Lori McKay lori@refinedmagazine.ca Design Ghislaine Moffitt Contributing Writers Melanie Furlong, Trina Annand, Charles Dart, Amanda Hookey, Henny Buffinga, Darrell Power, Tori Stafford, Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough, Angela Campagnoni Cover Photography Mandee Sugimoto Photography Mandee Sugimoto, Elsie Reid, Michael Allan, Maria Hillier, Nicole Bussey, Cal King, Ryan Cook Distribution & Subscriptions andrew@refinedmagazine.ca 709.730.7874

Will Pinsent Marketing & Advertising Consultant willp@refinedmagazine.ca 709.765.4921

Ghislaine Moffitt Designer ghislainem@refinedmagazine.ca

ReFINEd Halifax is published by ReFINEd Magazine Ltd., which is independently owned. Opinions expressed in ReFINEd Magazine Ltd. are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. ReFINEd Magazine Ltd. does not assume liability for content.

All rights reserved ©Refined Magazine Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. For reproduction requests, please call 709.730.7874.

Canada Post Publication Agreement #41818060. Return all undeliverables to 10 Montgomery St., Mount Pearl, NL, A1N 3B2.

A new escape room experience in downtown St. John's

Escape rooms are a new form of

entertainment that has caught on all over the world! Groups are sent into one of several exciting, thematic rooms filled with obstacles, locks, and clues. Working together, they must solve each problem in the hopes of finding a way out before the time is up.

CHECK OUT ESCAPE QUEST'S

FOUR INTERACTIVE SCENARIOS! 1892, Undead on Duckworth, St. John’s Superhero Saga and The Impossible Room

Escape Quest has been designed by a local group of artists and gamers to deliver the definitive escape room experience. Each room has been carefully developed to tell a story with you and your friends as the main characters!

who should play?

• • • • •

Gamers and enthusiasts Family and friends Companies Tourists Bachelorette & bachelor parties

156 Duckworth St. | 709.221.EPIC (3742) escape-quest.ca | info@escape-quest.ca |

CONTENTS

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

92

17 Photo by Aamie Gillam

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

STYLE & BEAUTY | 8

17

YOUR HEALTH | 35

Wedding Feature

CITY LIFE | 46

Looking for unique, local wedding ideas? Look no further than this issue of ReFINEd magazine

FOOD & DRINK | 62 TRAVELSCAPES | 68 AT HOME | 74 BUSINESS TO BUSINESS | 84 MOTORING | 90

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92 Cover Feature Mercedes-Benz St. John’s: Top Service, Luxury Vehicles

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© Forevermark Limited 2014–2015. Forevermark™,

™,

™ and A Diamond is Forever™ are Trade Marks used under license from The De Beers Group of Companies.

A DIAMOND IS FOREVER

I T ’ S A LO N G J O U R N E Y TO B E CO M E T H E O N E .

In our constant pursuit of absolute beauty, every Forevermark® diamond undergoes a journey of rigorous selection.

This is why less than one percent of the world’s diamonds are worthy of the Forevermark® inscription – our promise of beauty, rarity and responsible sourcing.

AVA L O N M A L L

|

709.570.2399

WWW.DAVANNAS.COM

STYLE & BEAUTY

Recognizing Excellence

IN THE CANADIAN

Fashion Industry

By Angela Campagnoni

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Lucian Matis

Kimberley Newport-Mimran / Pink Tartan

Meghan Buckley

Christopher Bates

Frank & Oak

Vanessa Hong / The Haute Pursuit

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STYLE & BEAUTY

My journey in fashion began as a runway model and evolved into a fashion designer. My many experiences shaped my appreciation and understanding for the industry as a whole, and taught me fashion is not about the clothing we create or put on each and every day, but an attitude — a movement, cultural experience and empowerment that simply cannot be put into words.

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he passion I feel for the industry led me to become creative in ways I didn’t originally envision. One of my goals was to increase fashion industry awareness on this side of the country, and through this journey I was introduced to new experiences and a career path I didn’t realize was possible, including creating Atlantic Fashion Week (which will celebrate its tenth season this fall!).

In 2013, the organizers of the first Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards approached me about being a jury member for the inaugural event.

What an honour it was to not only to be asked, but also to be the only delegate east of Montreal. And this year, as the awards enter their third year, I was brought back as part of the nominating committee.

Pouring through application after application and look-book after look-book, the nominating committee had a huge task to carry out.

After months of narrowing down each level we had our finalists, which were announced in January.

FINALISTS Womenswear Designer of the Year Greta Constantine Lucian Matis LINE Knitwear Pink Tartan Menswear Designer of the Year Christopher Bates Frank and Oak Wings + Horns Swarovski Award for Emerging Talent, Fashion 3.Paradis Beaufille Matthew Gallagher UNTTLD Swarovski Award for Emerging Talent, Accessories Arc Jewellery Daniel Christian Tang Lauren Klassen Sully Wong Accessory Designer of the Year Alan Anderson Dean Davidson Jenny Bird WANT Les Essentiels Joe Fresh Fashion Innovation Frank & Oak Sidebuy Stylekick

Fashion Design Student Hamish Thwaites Meghan Buckley Patricia Nicolas Tricia Crivellaro Image Maker Arkan Zakharov Gabor Jurina Max Abadian Richard Bernardin International Canadian Designer of the Year Jason Wu Tanya Taylor Thomas Tait Stylist of the Year Annie Horth Juliana Schiavinatto George Antonopoulos Model of the Year Crista Cober Kirsten Owen Heather Marks Herieth Paul Sephora Fresh Face of the Year Adam Butcher Emma Genier Malik Lindo Steph Smith Fashion Impact Browns Shoes Inc Laura Siegel The Obakki Foundation Fashion Blogger of the Year The Coveteur Beckerman Blog The Haute Pursuit

While Atlantic Canadian designers work hard to be noticed by our counterparts in the West, I have to remind myself everyone feels the struggle for recognition. There is an incredible amount of talent across the country and everyone is doing what he or she can to stand out amongst a sea of creativity. I am sure this can be attributed to many industries, not just the arts.

I look forward to seeing which of the finalists will be crowned with the award for their category, and wish them all well-deserved success.

The next stop for me is the Canadian Arts and Fashion Awards 2016 in Toronto this April. I encourage our readers to check out some of these designers that have been narrowed down as finalists… It’s a beautiful thing when we can support Canadian fashion!

STYLE & BEAUTY

Angela Campagnoni is the director and creator of Atlantic Fashion Week and has more than 25 years in the fashion industry. www.angelacampagnoni.com

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Lifting The Fog in St. John’s New clothing store aims to help those with mental illness

By Lori McKay

Since opening its doors in November at 202 Water St., the Fog Off Clothing Co. is already giving back to the St. John’s community in a big way.

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n addition to donating 10 per cent of sales to the mental health association in each of the three provinces where they have stores, Fog Off is a sponsor of Miss Newfoundland Melanie Barnes, professional bodybuilder Neil Doyle and boxer Wyatt Sanford in Nova Scotia. They

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also sponsor street bike and motocross racers, women’s softball teams and are planning to sponsor fire combat teams in St. John’s and Gander.

As owner Tim Henneberry works with these positive groups and athletes, he is building a network of people who support each other, as well as those in need.

the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. The original store is located in his ‘foggy’ hometown of Eastern Passage, N.S. He opened a second location on Prince Edward Island in June 2015.

At 1,200-square-feet of retail space, the St. John’s store is Henneberry’s flagship shop.

“We do a lot of sponsorships,” says Henneberry. “There’s a lot of giving back with Fog Off. That’s what the brand is all about. I’m looking to raise as much awareness and money for mental health as I possibly can.”

“Fog Off started with $10,000 and an idea. I was looking for a way to become a mental health advocate and decided on clothing because it’s a necessity.

Everybody has to have it. The brand took off and enabled me to get where I’m at today.”

Henneberry created the Fog Off Clothing Co. in June 2014 to help raise funds for

The store carries men’s and women’s t-shirts, hoodies, hats, toques, baseball

STYLE & BEAUTY

ABOVE L-R Neil Doyle, Ryan Morrell, Tim Henneberry, Melanie Barnes, Melissa Deer, Abby March

“No one should ever have to travel down a foggy path alone.”

tees, Henleys, active wear and accessories, all featuring the easily recognizable Fog Off logo, which was designed by Henneberry himself.

Henneberry is excited to announce that Pseudio clothing store will be selling their line in stores starting next month. They are currently working on new logos for Pseudio clothing, including a gym line that says Lift Your Fog Off, and a runner’s line that says Run Your Fog Off. “Pseudio is excited about the ‘Fog Off’ play on words, but also our message, which hits everybody. It’s relative to us all.”

You can check out Fog Off’s full mission statement on the company’s website, www.fogoffclothing.com, but the main

STYLE & BEAUTY

message they want to get across is their dedication to mental health awareness.

Sometimes relationship issues, illness, addictions, stress and other problems can lead to anxiety and depression, or what some call a mental “fog.” Their mission statement includes the line, “No one should ever have to travel down a foggy path alone.”

Fog Off Clothing Co. 202 Water St., St. John’s www.fogoffclothing.com

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Chatters

A Cutting Edge Salon Experience

By Henny Buffinga Photos Elsie Reid

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hatters, a successful chain of hair salons with 98 locations across Canada, was first brought to Newfoundland by franchisee Rosemary Buckingham.

Offering full hair and spa services for men and women, Chatters is also a retail location carrying high-end hair and beauty products.

“I think one of the things that people don’t realize about us is we have such a large retail space,” says Buckingham.

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After opening the first location on Aberdeen Avenue to great success, the chain quickly grew on the island to include three locations in St. John’s and Mount Pearl, as well as a location in Corner Brook. Each salon has between eight and 10 chairs for hair services, a large retail area and spa services including eyelash extensions, facials, waxing, makeup and even laser hair removal at the Mount Pearl location. They are also certified to apply Great Lengths Hair Extensions.

STYLE & BEAUTY

While most salons focus on one or two brands to showcase in-store, this 4,000-sq.-ft. space allows them to offer a full range of products for their clients. They carry Redken, Joico, Sexy, Ag, American Crew, Paul Mitchell, Deva Curls and many more. Chatters also has their own line of professional hair tools and products called Kenneth Bernard.

“We carry professional products that have a higher quality than your typical drug store hair products,” adds Buckingham.

Chatters employs highly-trained individuals and encourages continued education through internal training programs as well as opportunities through Redken. They also host national competitions every year.

Chatters offers a lowest price guarantee, and has many offers including a free gift with their colour services, as well as a gift with purchases over $60. They also have a points system in-store.

“We try to ensure that there are many opportunities for our stylists and consultants,” says Buckingham. With conferences and training opportunities, they foster an exciting work environment for their employees.

The large retail space and vast range of products set Chatters salon and spa apart in Newfoundland. “At the end of the day, it’s about making our customers happy,” says Buckingham. “We just want everyone to have a good hair day!”

STYLE & BEAUTY

98 Aberdeen Avenue, St. John’s 709.722.2525 1A Kiwanis Street, St. John’s 709.576.0660 160 Old Placentia Road, Mount Pearl 709.747.4848 14 Murphy Square, Corner Brook 709.634.5600 www.chatters.ca

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FRESH

fun

Spring Into a New Makeup Look This Season

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

Spring is all about feeling fresh and light — especially when it comes to your cosmetics. ReFINEd magazine is here to help you embrace warm weather makeup confidently and with style.

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STYLE & BEAUTY

don’t prepare it to start off with,” she warns. “Everyone needs to be in a good regimen of cleansing, toning, moisturizing and exfoliating, and making sure we are using the right products.”

Berry says some of the hottest makeup trends for spring 2016 are edgy eyes, natural dewy skin and cherry red lips.

“Cobalt blue for the eyes and brow art are also going to be popular this year.”

If you tend to shy away from such bold looks, you can still be on trend; it’s just about making the look your own.

“Take inspiration from what you see and add your own imagination to it,” says Berry. “For example, the cobalt blue fad for your eyes can be achieved by adding just a hint of blue liner to the bottom lash line smudged with a black or brown liner on the edge to mute it out a bit. People get so caught up in trying to duplicate looks instead of just getting inspired.”

MAKEUP THROUGH THE AGES Whether you’re 25 or 65, it can be difficult to figure out what’s best when it comes to enhancing your facial features with cosmetics. Grab your best brushes, and read on for tips on how to master makeup through the ages.

20s

“Cobalt blue on the eyes is making a comeback this spring, and I am so excited about it,” says Berry. “Incorporate a little or a lot, spring is the time to experiment with colour.” Cherry lips and glitter brows are also a hot spring trend for the younger generation. “Get inspired and add your own imagination to make the look your own.”

“There is something exciting about transitioning from dark winter makeup to a bright new spring look,” says Erin Berry, Pro Makeup Coach. “It’s refreshing to shed some winter layers and let your natural glow shine through. After being bundled up all winter long, we need to spice up our look with some violet cheeks,

electric eyes and cherry red lips. Maybe not all at the same time, of course.”

According to makeup artist Amanda Alves, the key to great makeup, no matter what the season, is prepping the skin prior to the application of makeup. “You’re never going to have good makeup if you

STYLE & BEAUTY

30s

Transitioning from your 20s to your 30s can be a difficult time, says Berry, but adding a little edge to your look can be just what you need to feel a little more confident.

Before anything else, remember that taking care of your skin is vital during

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Stay away from heavy black shadows and liners, says Alves, and smudge your liner to give it a softer look.

When it comes to your lipstick, stick to a nude shade with a little shine. “Nude tones make lips look bigger,” says Alves.

“We lose volume in the lips [as we age] and darker colours can make them look even smaller.”

50s

these years. This means applying a sunscreen and a great moisturizer every single day. “Now is the time to focus on skincare; you might notice your skin is less hydrated,” says Alves.

When it comes to makeup, don’t be afraid to experiment with some colour.

“Cool tone violet shades are going to be popular this year and can be worn on the eyes, lips and cheeks,” says Berry. “It’s up to you to play around and have fun with them.”

Natural (but groomed) brows will also be hot this spring and throughout the summer. Defining your natural arch is a

good way to sculpt your entire face. “It’s like an instant facelift,” says Alves.

During our 50s, our skin doesn’t bounce back quite the same way as it used to and there may be a few more wrinkles than you’d hoped for. “Find a luminous tinted moisturizer that won’t settle into fine lines,” says Berry. “This will even out your skin tone and add a little glow to your skin. Applying a nice creamy concealer under the eye will also help lift the face and add dimension.”

When it comes to your lips, “finding the perfect red lip will be a great way to look like you have made a lot of effort with very little time,” says Berry. “For those busy mornings, a convertible cheek and lip stain in a nice cherry red can give your face that perfect balance and last all day long.”

Try adding a pop of violet to the cheeks and lips to brighten your look for spring, says Berry. “Smudge a warm violet or brown liner on the outer parts of the top and bottom lash line to really define the eye (do this step looking straight ahead to avoid drooping or harsh lines). And remember to blend, blend, blend!”

40s

60s,70s and Beyond

“As we age and move into our 40s, our face and skin changes, so it’s important to change our routine as that happens,” says Berry.

Dewy skin never goes out of style.

“Applying a luminous tinted moisturizer will add moisture and hide the sun damage that may have accumulated from all those years of baking in the sun,” says Berry.

Sheen versus shimmer is the most flattering on skin as we age, so add a nice violet hue with a slight sheen to both your eyes and cheeks this spring to add some warmth. Sculpting the contours of the face with a warm, taupe coloured bronzer will give your skin some dimension and warmth after a long, dull winter. Avoid a dark lip liner and just add a hint of colour to the lips. Adding a little high lighter to the cupids bow will give your lips some extra pout.

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STYLE & BEAUTY

For all of those ‘Glam-mas’ in their 60s, 70s and beyond, less is more but none is not enough, says Berry. “Don’t be scared to add some colour to your look.”

She says a lengthening mascara and a lightly defined brow will open eyes and brighten your face. And embrace your laugh lines (you earned those!) but exfoliate and hydrate to prevent a dull complexion. It’s important to avoid heavy concealers and foundations as they just settle in the creases, says Berry.

“Use a liquid concealer that moves with your expression lines and brightens your under eyes.”

Whatever your age, your makeup should ultimately express who you are and make you feel confident and sexy. “My favourite thing about makeup is that there are no rules, just suggestions and trends that come in and out,” says Berry. “I always tell my clients you can wear whatever you want if it makes you feel good.”

WEDDING FEATURE

BEAUTIFUL INSPIRATIONS

As you begin to plan what is sure to be one of the biggest days of your life, there are many things to consider: the dress, cake, venue, hair, flowers, honeymoon, photography ... The list of nuptial “to-dos” can seem endless.

How can you narrow it down and make this daunting task somewhat manageable? It’s simple! Work with professionals and be prepared.

ReFINEd St. John’s/Avalon is here to help kick start your bridal busyness with fresh, local ideas that are both inspiring and beautiful. Now, get ready to say, “I do!” and plan the best day of your life.

OUR LOCAL GO-TO

WEDDING BUSINESSES Décor & Flowers | By Sharpe Design Flower Shop | Flowers on Buchanan Bridal Salon | The Bridal Salon Photography | Aamie Gillam Photography Gift Registry | Endless Honeymoon Wedding Show | Devotion Wedding Show

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CUSTOMIZE YOUR SPECIAL DAY WITH

BY SHARPE DESIGN

By Lori McKay Photos Mandee Sugimoto and Maria Hillier

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t’s the little details that make a wedding beautiful — the scent of fresh flowers, the candlelit atmosphere, the pretty floral centerpieces, the typography on your place cards. By not offering generic package options, By Sharpe Design provides clients with an endless array of choices for their event décor, floral, and stationery.

“Our aim is to create a one-of-a-kind look for every client we have the pleasure of working with,” says owner Sue Sharpe.

“Our passion for seeing a vision develop from a concept into a beautiful, detailed

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event is just one of the reasons we love what we do. Each customized event is coordinated with your specific style and needs in mind because your décor should make a statement we will both be proud of.”

Growing up, Sue spent time in a successful retail environment — her grandparents’ variety shop, Hunt’s Ltd., in Churchill Square. There, she realized what could happen when you had an idea and were willing to work hard.

Established in 2008, By Sharpe Design began as an event décor business

WEDDING FEATURE

specializing in custom designs for weddings and other types of functions.

It expanded in 2010 to include a fresh floral service for room décor and in 2012 to include bridal floral such as bouquets, boutonnieres, floral crowns, garlands, etc.

The business expanded yet again in 2013 to include a charming gift shop, located at 43 Churchill Square. Sue says she is “grateful to employ some very talented people who work together in a very special way. We enjoy it and each other very much! It is definitely our team effort that contributes to the success of each event we execute.”

While completing her BSc at MUN, Sue worked at a specialty retail store and other small, locally owned shops, where she learned valuable skills geared toward having a business. “I have learned so much more by actually doing it though,” she says. “It’s a constant learning experience. This business has given me the opportunity to be creative and to challenge myself in many rewarding ways.

We are always grateful to the clients who trust us on such a special day.”

Local venues have been a huge supporter for By Sharpe Design, sending many referrals their way, while the guests of each event they set up tend to be their largest target group to obtain future business. “We often hear from clients who tell us they attended this wedding or that event and they would like to inquire about our service. We take this as a huge compliment as it means they like what they saw,” says Sue. Although their event side of the business is what they are most known for, the gift shop should not be overlooked. “People are often surprised to know we are more than just event décor,” she says. “Our boutique-style space offers a selection of pretty things! Full of sweet treasures to give to a friend or to add a special touch to your home, wedding or next event.

We have a range of products available for purchase, as well as many wedding related materials such as signage, champagne flutes, guest books, ribbons, chalk boards, Chinese lanterns and so much more. We invite you to drop by our shop any time to browse or just to say hello!”

43 Churchill Square St. John’s, NL 709.576.7293 bysharpedesign@bellaliant.com www.facebook.com/bysharpedesign

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SAY

No

to the

STRESS:

By Tori Stafford

“I always tell brides to smell the flowers, taste the cake, feel the paper for the invitations, look at the dresses, try them on, and have fun at every step of the way.”

– Randy Fenoli

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any women dream about their wedding from a young age, envisioning the perfect day with the perfect person.

Yet, for many, planning this important day ends up becoming a stressful experience.

It’s something wedding guru Randy Fenoli, beloved personality on TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress, has seen time and time again. “Brides come in all the time saying ‘I am so stressed out!’ To me, that’s silly.

It’s a celebration!" says Fenoli. "It can be intimate, it can be over the top, it can be whatever, but it shouldn’t be stressful.”

With his outstanding ability to find the perfect dress for brides who enter Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City, where

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Say Yes to the Dress takes place, Fenoli is also the star of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress: Randy Knows Best, and Randy to the Rescue. Channelling his years of wedding and bridal experience, Fenoli says the entire planning and wedding experience should be enjoyable.

“I always tell brides to smell the flowers, taste the cake, feel the paper for the invitations, look at the dresses, try them on, and have fun at every step of the way,” he says, noting a couple should set their budget before anything else to avoid unnecessary stress.

"Planning is supposed to be the fun part, so if you’re not having fun, then just go to Vegas… they have a drive-thru chapel.

Honey, you don’t even have to get out of your car,” he says with a laugh.

Most importantly, always keep in mind why you are doing what you’re doing.

“Again, it’s all about perspective," says Fenoli. "You can’t change the things that are in front of you... and all of those things that you need to do. What you can change is how you think about them. Just enjoy it and remember what you’re doing: You’re marrying the guy of your dreams.

It’s really about love, that’s what it’s all about.”

To keep things in perspective, Fenoli recommends taking tasks one at a time, so you can truly enjoy making the decisions about what goes into your special day.

WEDDING FEATURE

Five Things

You Don’t Want to Overlook when Planning Your Wedding 1. The Marriage License. This is the only thing you really can’t get married without. Get your license as early as possible and assign someone in the wedding party to ensure it’s there on the big day.

2. Break in Your Shoes. Wear in your footwear well before the big day to keep blisters at bay, and remind your party to do the same.

3. Phone Chargers. Chances are you’ll need your phone at some point, and a dead battery is an easily avoided stress if someone is assigned to bring chargers.

4. Eat. It’s easy to forget to eat throughout the day, and you need all the energy you can get.

5. Cash Tips on Hand. For the many people who help make your wedding happen, you’ll want to tip.

This is something the groom or someone in the wedding party can easily take on to ensure it’s not missed.

Randy Fenoli photo courtesy TLC

WEDDING FEATURE

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Flowers on Buchanan THE FRESHEST FLOWER SHOP DOWNTOWN

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ewfoundland residents know if they want reliable, topquality seed for vegetables and flowers, The Seed Company by E.W. Gaze — formerly known as The Gaze Seed Company — is the place to go. For more than 90 years, the business has been providing the area with the best seeds, soil and fertilizers, as well as anything else you need for a successful garden.

Now this historical brand is offering fresh flowers within a department of their newly rebranded business, Flowers on Buchanan.

This full-service business, run by talented and experienced florist Barry Cousens, has taken a new twist on the term “flower shop” and delivers fresh and exciting ideas. Cousens has been in

the business for close to 30 years. His focus is to provide the customers with the best flowers for every occasion. Open six days a week, Flowers on Buchanan delivers throughout St. John’s and to surrounding areas.

They specialize in everything from weddings, corporate and holiday services to personalized floral arrangements.

Flowers on Buchanan also offers specialty food and fruit baskets, holiday wreaths, houseplants and a vast selection of succulents.

Since opening in November 2015, weddings have already become a big part of their business. Cousens, who has provided floral arrangements and bouquets for hundreds of weddings, likes to meet with a bride about six months before the wedding. “This allows us

time to change the requirements as they confirm their bridal party. Typically, they’ll bring me images of things they like or I show them photos of arrangements according to their taste,” says Cousens.

“Most brides have already picked out exactly what they want, and we’re happy to create that for them!”

They also provide fresh new ideas for flowers. Just off George Street West, Flowers on Buchanan will play with the cocktails and drinks theme, inherent in the famed location, and create a drop-in flower bar. Step inside and order your glass: martini, brandy, wine glass, champagne flute, whiskey glass, etc. Then choose the cut flowers of your choice to create a beautiful and unique arrangement.

PHOTO ABOVE BY Jackson McLean

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WEDDING FEATURE

Co-owner Brittany Elliott explains, “You can get personalized arrangements here that you can’t find anywhere else. These make fantastic gifts and can be used to set up tables for dinner parties. With just a few flowers and some greenery, they make having fresh cut flowers in the house affordable and fun.”

For those who like to regularly keep up their fresh flowers, Flowers on Buchanan offers monthly subscriptions for three to 12 months. This popular gift item has a new arrangement delivered to recipients each month. They’ve also set up a personalized loyalty club. If you sign up and give Flowers on Buchanan your yearly important dates — such as

birthdays, anniversaries, etc. — they will remind you of your occasions as they get closer and give you the option to order from them. If you order on all the dates, they’ll make you a free bouquet at the end of the year.

Keeping the tradition of top quality products and excellent customer service established by The Seed Company

by E.W. Gaze, and adding the fragrant beauty of fresh flowers to Flowers on Buchanan, Elliott and her business partner Peter Byrne are thrilled about this new venture. “We’re really excited to serve you and hope you come visit our shop,” says Elliott.

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Brittany Elliott and Peter Byrne; PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE BY Mandee Sugimoto

Flowers on Buchanan 9 Buchanan St. St. John’s, NL 709.221.4500

Receive 20% off any purchase, including wedding arrangements, by mentioning ReFINEd Magazine!

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10Romantic HONEYMOON DESTINATIONS

By Melanie Furlong

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For some newlyweds, the honeymoon is a much-needed holiday after the stress of a wedding. For others, it’s a special time to connect away from the distractions of everyday life. Whether you spend it in bustling New York City or on a deserted beach in Tahiti, spending time together, away from everything else, is the most important thing. Here are 10 places to consider when planning your romantic getaway.

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1 | PAris From its impressive galleries and storied neighbourhoods to glorious wines and mouthwatering pastries, the City of Lights will give you the time of your life.

Shopping on the famous Rue Cambon or at the legendary marchés aux puces (flea markets), dining atop the Eiffel Tower, touring the grandiose palace of Versailles or simply meandering the streets, you and your amour will have much to discover.

2 | moroCCo Dramatic mountains, serene desert, beautiful gardens and year-round sunshine mean Morocco is an ideal honeymoon destination. It offers a piece of African culture combined with an eclectic mix of Spanish, Portuguese and French influences. Visit traditional hammams, shop in the lively souks, trek the Atlas mountains or Sahara desert and enjoy the country’s spectacular beaches.

3 | bermuDA Gorgeous pink sands, limestone cliffs and perfect sunny weather make Bermuda a modern day paradise close to home.

Unwind in this romantic destination renowned for its superb hospitality.

Discover the delightful beaches, the shops of Hamilton, golf or explore the 400 years of British history at Fort

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St. Catharine in St. George’s. Let this stunning Atlantic oasis provide the backdrop to your romance.

4 | new YorK CitY The City That Never Sleeps is a dynamic spot for honeymooners couples. Stay in a trendy or luxurious hotel and enjoy everything the city offers from romantic bike rides through Central Park and walks across the Brooklyn Bridge to nights out at the hottest restaurants and musicals in town. Foodies, history buffs, art enthusiasts and culture seekers will all find something to tickle their fancy.

5 | st. luCiA Lush rain forests, a drive-through volcano and black sand beaches make St. Lucia a gorgeous spot to rejuvenate. Try the therapeutic hot springs, climb the famous Piton mountains or indulge in water sports. Looking for something really remote? Consider staying on one of the tiny islets off the island.

6 | tAHiti With more than 118 beautiful islands and famous destinations such as Moorea and Bora Bora, there is no better place to celebrate your new life together than Tahiti. Its kilometres of quiet, pristine beaches are the reason it’s ranked No. 1

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for “alone time.” Thatched-roof overwater bungalows that stand over turquoise lagoon waters provide all the amenities of first-class hotels and are perfect romantic hideaways for honeymooners.

7 | AustrAliA Why not take a trip down under and explore the continent of Australia?

There is something for everyone here from beautiful wineries to some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the world. Visit Melbourne for incredible restaurants, top-notch shopping and great entertainment. Byron Bay, with beautiful beaches and a laid back atmosphere, is a great spot to relax.

8 | ColombiA Colombia’s one of the hottest new destinations on the travel scene these

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days and honeymooners will quickly find out why. Dancing the night away in colourful Cartagena, touring the country’s lush coffee regions and visiting dazzling flower festivals will give you a taste of Colombia’s warmth and vitality you won’t forget. Or you could spend the entire honeymoon in flip-flops exploring the secluded white sand coral beaches.

9 | VeniCe If you and your partner love European history, Italian cuisine and incredible art and architecture, a honeymoon in Venice will be perfect for you. It’s a city like no other and the romance of gliding down one of its storied canals in a gondola cannot be denied. Allow time for wandering the cobbled lanes and plenty of stops for Venetian spritzes and cichetti.

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10 | HAwAii Often ranked as one of the best honeymoon spots in the world, Hawaii boasts unparalleled natural settings.

On Oahu, try surfing on Waikiki Beach, snorkeling at Hanauma Bay and traditional outrigger canoeing. Dine at a Hawaiian luau and let loose with a hula lesson. You can also go island hopping to Maui, Kauai, Hawaii, Molokai and Lanai, which all have diverse environments to explore.

It‘s About You and Your Style The Bridal Salon was established in 1989. In 2008, Tilly (Synyard) Vatcher took over the salon that was formally owned by her foster parents. She refaced and rebranded the salon to reflect her vision and business savvy.

true! Tilly gives a special thanks to Rachel and Jerry Comerford, her foster family, for having the vision to start The Bridal Salon and recognizing mentorship as a key component of foster care.

The slogan “It’s about you and your style” is based on personal life experiences. Growing up in an enterprising foster home, Tilly learned firsthand the meaning of mentorship. This idea carried into her business. Her daughter, Victoria, began her mentorship approach at the age of 15, while several other young ladies remain a part of this mentorship program. Victoria is still a large part of the business. As business administrator, she offers a keen eye that helps take the stress out of the dress from behind the scenes.

Confidence. When a bride looks in a mirror and sees her true beauty and trusts herself to MAKE HER OWN CHOICES!

Tilly says “finding one’s best fit can be difficult”; through support of family, friends and her husband Spencer, her dreams have come

Combining the bride’s vision and body shape to provide her with THE BEST FIT!

It’s about you and your style!

Let us help take the stress out of your dress!

Guidance. Offering brides assistance when exploring their own vision while searching for THEIR PERFECT DRESS! Finding your fit to flatter your figure!

709.722.4803 | 1179 Topsail Road, Mount Pearl consultants@thebridalsalon.com | www.thebridalsalon.com

CAPTURE THE MOMENTS ON

Your Wedding Day

W

hen photographer Aamie Gillam photographs your wedding, she goes above and beyond any expectations. Capturing the most touching, romantic and beautiful moments of this special occasion — and making you look like you just stepped out of a magazine — is her raison d’être.

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By Melanie Furlong

Sometimes, getting the most fabulous shots means being spontaneous. On the morning of one memorable wedding, Gillam was asked to present the groom with a book of his bride’s boudoir shots.

The grateful groom decided he wanted to give his partner a book of his own boudoir-style photos that night. His shoot took place right then and there.

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“Between supper and the speeches, we got his photos printed and put into a book,” says Gillam. “I captured her surprise opening it. I will never forget that moment.”

Gillam works closely on wedding shoots with her husband, Jim, who began by lugging gear and is now a skilled photographer in his own right. As a

PHOTO RIGHT Dress: The Model Shop Bouquet: All Events

husband and wife team, they easily relate to their clients.

Newlyweds Shannon and John can’t say enough good things about them.

“These two people are the most amazing and professional duo I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with,” says Shannon.

“Not only is their work absolutely beautiful, but their ability to know exactly what you want and to make it happen without even asking them, is unreal.

Besides shooting my wedding pictures, Aamie and Jim made all of my guests feel at home and have a ball. It wasn’t even like they were working. They mingled with guests, helped with clean up and set up of the reception, got drinks for people, set up the candy buffet and had a blast with guests in the PhotoBooth! If you want the traditional style, right up to crazy dance floor candids, Aamie and Jim are in a league of their own!”

Before embarking on a full-time career in photography last fall, Gillam enjoyed an eight-year career in front of the camera on NTV. She says, “It was a great job, but I’m so happy now to be able to put all my time and efforts into my clients’ work.”

Whether she’s taking traditional or candid shots, Gillam wants to surpass expectations. She may push clients a little out of their comfort zone or even take shots when the camera is not in her face — anything to capture those memorable moments.

After she sends her clients their photo packages, she’s not happy until she knows they are. “Each package has a little piece of me in it,” she says. “I care about my clients and want to hear they cried, laughed and loved their photos.”

Once Gillam has worked with a couple, she often sees them again for boudoir, maternity and baby photo shoots. “We hope to continue working with our clients for the rest of our lives,” she says.

Aamie Gillam Photography Conception Bay South 709.765.9391 aamie@aamiegillam.com aamiegillam.com

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START YOUR MARRIAGE WITH AN

ENDLESS HONEYMOON

By Melanie Furlong

W

hen it comes to celebrating your love, nothing can top a beautiful wedding — except an incredible honeymoon. Couples may find it challenging to plan and save for both a wedding and a honeymoon. In order to help couples overcome this challenge, honeymoon specialist Nicole Bussey, of Endless Honeymoon, enables couples to set up a free online wedding registry that allows friends and family of the bride and groom to contribute to their honeymoon package.

“Our goal is three-fold,” says Bussey. “To create lasting memories by making honeymoon travel affordable for everyone; to give couples a way to strengthen their marriage by encouraging them to spend quality time together while taking vacations for the

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rest of their lives; and to give couples options for an alternative wedding registry, as some couples already have household items that would be provided by a traditional registry.”

After setting up your online wedding registry, you can keep checking back to see when you reach the amount needed for your package. Once the minimum payment has been reached, Bussey sends out the vacation package and you can use it to book the honeymoon of your dreams. The couple will receive cash back on any money remaining in their honeymoon account. This money can then be used to help cover any incidental expenses or taxes required for your honeymoon vacation, or just to buy some great souvenirs.

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When the couple receives their package, two of the trips will be activated, meaning they need to be used within the first year. These are the Carnival Cruise and the Bahamas Getaway for Two Cruise. All the other vacations and cruises in your package are “dormant”; you simply activate them as you need them. The membership cards will give you a multitude of travel related discounts. The hotel card will give you discounts at various hotels worldwide; the golf card gives you discounts on golf courses, driving ranges, merchandise and equipment; the dining card has discounts on thousands of participating restaurants; the theme park card will give you discounts at parks such as Disney World, Sea World, Six Flags and Universal Studios. There are also cards that will give you discounts on RVing, condos, car rentals, private jets, private yachts and more.

Bussey is receiving a lot of positive feedback about the discounted condominiums in particular. “We get condos for $300 U.S. a week around the world,” she says. “And periodically this gets discounted even further as low as $199. You can use it for a skiing vacation in Colorado or a week in Europe. I have used it myself to go to Florida twice so far, and so have several of my friends.”

Endless Honeymoon will be at the next Devotion Wedding Show on March 6, but contact Bussey anytime for information about this amazing wholesale package program.

Endless Honeymoon 709.589.4827 info@topweddingregistry.com www.topweddingregistry.com

PHOTO RIGHT Nicole Bussey PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE BY Mandee Sugimoto

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Everything you need for

YOUR BIG DAY

DEVOTION WEDDING SHOW

By Melanie Furlong & Lori McKay

Preparing for your wedding means making a lot of choices. There are so many options for ceremony and reception venues, dresses, flowers and decorations, music, food and more that it can send a bride-to-be spinning with indecision. Attending the Devotion Wedding Show, the biggest wedding show in Newfoundland and Labrador, helps couples and their families get a handle on their special day.

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C

rystal McLellan, owner and operator of the Devotion Wedding Show, says bridesto-be often tell her they come to the show with many decisions on their minds. “Many feel overwhelmed by wedding planning,” says McLellan. “But our spectacular, amazing vendors inspire, educate and excite the couples they meet. It’s quite common for people to leave the Devotion Wedding Show with several aspects of their wedding taken care of.”

A bi-annual event that began in 2008, The Devotion Wedding Show held their spring show on March 6 at The Glacier Arena in Mount Pearl.

“It was a good crowd,” said McLellan.

“The fashion show was really great and people loved the toilet paper brides.”

They called three brides onto the stage and they had to make dresses out of toilet paper, which they later modelled.

They were judged on creativity, style and quality. “They had to walk the runway with the toilet paper dress on and hope it didn’t fall off. It was really fun.”

The winner of the contest won a $1,000 gift certificate toward their wedding gown at Olivia’s Bridal.

There were more than 100 vendors in wedding-related categories, many of which have been at the show since its inception, including Travel Time TPi, King’s Photography, The Model Shop and Picco’s Creations.

“We had some new faces this year.

We had everyone from photographers and wedding cake designers to travel consultants, makeup artists, venues,

Crystal McLellan

musicians, florists, limousine companies, jewelry and more,” says McLellan. “There were also vendors who provided services the couple will need to start their lives together, such as real estate agents and financial services.”

Reading the positive comments from vendors and attendees after each show is rewarding for McLellan. “It makes a big difference to the couples,” she says. “And that’s why we do it.”

McLellan, who is also a wedding photographer, was not satisfied with what was going on in the city and began the show as an experiment. “It just took off,” she says.

Visitors of all ages attended the show, from young couples and their families to those who are tying the knot at a later stage of life. But for anyone who is getting married, it’s a one-stop shop with topnotch vendors.

A portion of the admission fees are donated to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, who were present at the

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“We had everyone from photographers and wedding cake designers to travel consultants, makeup artists, venues, musicians, florists, limousine companies, jewellers and more.”

– Crystal McLellan

show with their Kiss for a Cure program.

The Devotion Show has raised more than $14,000 for the organization over the last seven years.

The next Devotion Wedding Show will be held on Aug. 28 at the Delta Hotel.

“We started out at the Delta and are thrilled to be hosting the show in that venue again,” says McLellan.

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Destination Wedding, Honeymoon, & Elopement Specialists

Visit our website to hear from couples who we have helped make their wedding and honeymoon dreams come true!

Travel Time - TPI Inc. 709.753.9950 lbarbour@tpi.ca www.traveltimetpi.ca

YOUR HEALTH

DRINK YOUR WAY

TO GOOD HEALTH

By Melanie Furlong

MEAN GREEN JUICE Ingredients: 2 cucumbers 8 celery stalks 4 apples 16 leaves kale with stalks 1 lemon 5 cm piece of ginger

Whether you try juicing as a path to weight loss or just want to improve your nutrition, you can’t go wrong juicing some delicious fresh fruit and vegetables. Take an antioxidant hit with a Mean Green Juice, like the one Joe Cross drank for 60 days while filming his documentary Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead. Or you can make juices to give you energy boosts, cure hangovers or improve your mood. Making juice is also a great way to increase your consumption of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

Directions: Wash all produce well.

Peel the lemon and core apple.

Add all ingredients through juicer and enjoy!

Servings: Makes 2 servings of 16-20 oz (500-600 ml)

A JUICE TO MAKE YOU HAPPY Ingredients: 4 chard leaves and stems 1 cup spinach 1 large beet and leaves 2 oranges 1 lemon 2.5 cm piece of turmeric Directions: Wash and scrub all produce well.

Peel the beet, oranges and lemon.

Add all ingredients to juicer and enjoy!

Substitutions: Chard – kale, spinach, lettuce, watercress, arugula Spinach – kale, chard, lettuce, watercress, arugula Beets – golden beets, radish, carrots Orange – grapefruit, orange, mandarin Lemon – grapefruit, lime Turmeric – mint, ginger Recipes from rebootwithjoe.com

YOUR HEALTH

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A ROSE

BY ANY OTHER NAME

By Trina Annand

A traditional symbol of love and affection, rose cultivation began more than 5,000 years ago. Ancient Greeks, Egyptians, Mayans and Native Americans used them as a highly valued medicinal plant — powers they still contain today.

From internal medicine to beauty applications, roses are a botanical powerhouse.

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YOUR HEALTH

Rose Oil and Rose Hip Seed Oil Bulgaria produces about 70 per cent of the world’s rose oil. It takes tens of thousands of rose blossoms — picked as they unfurl at dawn — to yield one ounce of rose essential oil. Known for its antiseptic and astringent qualities, rose oils are perfect for evening out complexions, rejuvenating skin cells and reducing dark spots. Celebrities such as Victoria Secret model Miranda Kerr and actress Rose Byrne swear by the plant’s power to brighten and soothe sensitive skin.

Unlike other oils, rose oils are lightweight and non-greasy, absorbing easily into skin without leaving a sticky residue.

Containing essential fatty acids, rose oil is great for moisturizing winter worn itchy scalps as well. You can use rose oil to treat scars, acne, burns and reduce wrinkles, as vitamin C is responsible for collagen production.

ROSE HIPS Native Americans traditionally ate rose hips — the fruit produced once a rose has gone to seed — as a potent source of vitamins in the winter. These glowing red pods are packed with vitamins C, A and B complex as well as calcium, iron, selenium and antioxidants.

Rose hips have been widely acclaimed as a rheumatoid arthritis treatment, increasing mobility and reducing pain due to their anti-inflammatory qualities.

Antioxidants have been proven to reduce cholesterol levels and rose hips have also been used in studies to regulate sugar levels in diabetic patients.

routine. In a travel size spray bottle, rose water is a quick and easy way to refresh dull, caking makeup. The same spray can be used as a quick and easy way to refresh bed linens between washings.

The aromatic value of roses shouldn’t be discounted either. Used to relax at the end of the day rose has a positive effect on treating depression. The scent is also the aroma most commonly used in modern perfumery.

MORE ROSE FACTS: • The oldest fossilized imprint of a rose was found on a slate deposit found in Florissant, Colorado and is estimated to be 35 million years old.

• The rose is the birth flower of June.

• Damask rose, Rosa Canina and Rosa Gallica are cultivated to extract rose essence, which is an important ingredient in the cosmetic industry.

• There are more than 100 rose species worldwide.

• As perennials, roses can survive for extremely long periods of time.

For example, a large rose bush has covered the wall of the Cathedral of Hildesheim in Germany for more than 1,000 years.

Rose hips can be turned into syrups, jellies, oils, powders and teas. Rose tea can be a simple addition to your daily routine, offering a boost of essential vitamins. It’s a perfect way to relax at the end of the day. The tea has also been linked to reduced symptoms from menstrual cramps.

ROSE WATER A more affordable option to rose oils, rose water helps hydrate, refresh, soothe and cleanse. It’s an ideal makeup remover or aftershave treatment and acts as a conditioner when added to a hair washing

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Find the Hearing Solution Best For You AT NEWFOUNDLAND HEARING HEALTH CENTRE Photos Mandee Sugimoto

H

ave you ever had trouble hearing above background noise or understanding a phone conversation? Maybe people are mumbling and you have to ask them to repeat themselves?

Centre is dedicated to helping patients through this journey of keeping them connected with family and friends. It is not unusual to experience hearing loss at any time during your lifespan and surely nothing to be embarrassed about.

Perhaps you are experiencing some form of hearing loss. Hearing loss is an impairment that affects all ages and has no limits. Newfoundland Hearing Health

Michelle Ritchie, originally from Burin, recently purchased Newfoundland Hearing Health Centre, a business that has an amazing track record. Tanya

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YOUR HEALTH

Grenning, hearing practitioner, started with Newfoundland Hearing in 2009 and gained much respect from patients for her knowledge and care.

Ritchie and her staff are dedicated to ensuring a proper analysis and remedy to your hearing problem — whether it be just a consult, order of new aids, followups or repairs. Their goal is to provide top-notch service with compassion and

“When families see how their loved one’s quality of life is restored and what that does for them, that’s amazing! I’m loving it every step of the way.”

- Michelle Ritchie

patience so patients can continue to live a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle.

Starkey Canada is Newfoundland Hearing’s main supplier. Each individual ear is unique and Starkey can accommodate any fitting or style.

From invisible products in-the-canal to receiver in the canal products, their line has something to suit everyone. In May, which is Better Hearing Month,

Starkey is coming out with a new series of innovative products that implement groundbreaking technology. Ritchie and Grenning are anxious to see them and will be travelling to Minneapolis for training on the new product.

Hearing back from a patient or their loved ones about how well they are doing since being fitted with the correct hearing device is very fulfilling for the staff at

YOUR HEALTH

Newfoundland Hearing. To quote Ritchie, “When families see how their loved one’s quality of life is restored and what that does for them, that’s amazing! I’m loving it every step of the way.”

Newfoundland Hearing Health Centre 760 Topsail Rd. Mount Pearl 709.745.5133 1.888.745.5933 nflhearinghealthcentre.com

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Eat. Energize.

Emphasizing the foods you should eat more of and less on those you should avoid, Freshii provides meals and snacks that help you live your best life.

Think: fibre-rich, slow-burning carbs, essential fats and lean proteins. The Freshii menu includes custom-made green wraps, salads, quinoa bowls and fresh pressed juices.

Freshii lives by their Mission Green. Taking a stand and being good to the earth by eliminating traditional industry staples, such as excess packaging, heavy energy consumption and greasy processed meals.

Providing fresh and nutritious meal choices that energize people on the go.

MENU: ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

Meal boxes Salads & wraps Noodle/rice/quinoa bowls Burritos Soups Frozen yogurt Juices & smoothies Breakfast Juice cleanses

Catering is also .available

673 Topsail Rd. | St John's, NL | 709.747.0777 | www.freshii.com

The first membership-based massage therapy clinic in St. John’s!

“It’s our goal to make massage therapy a luxury that everyone can afford.”

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE is an important

part of your health and wellness plan. It can help you when you’re injured, stressed, in chronic pain, or simply in need of a little relaxation and balance. Ongoing massage therapy can help you achieve a preventative approach to your health and well-being.

673 Topsail Rd. Unit 2B | St John's, NL | 709.368.2888

WHAT WE OFFER:

∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

Therapeutic massage clinic Spa-like atmosphere Registered massage therapists Customized massage therapy Convenient online booking Hundreds of appointments a week Next day appointments Direct billing to most insurance companies High standard of care Esthetician on staff

EA

EXPERT ADVICE

EXPERT ADVICE

YOU CAN HEAL Osteopathy is a hybrid modality. It is considered to be a blend of all the manual therapies, but is distinct and is recognized by the World Health Organization as an evidence-based approach to healing.

Osteopathic manual therapy is a combination of standard and alternative medicine and is commonly called the most complete form of health care in the world.

A

s an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner (Manual Osteopath) and soon to be Doctor of Osteopathy, I have the knowledge base to look at complex issues and get to the root of the problem. This is essential for healing the body, which is an inter-related system. The structure and function of the entire body rely on one another.

I run into many misconceptions and myths on a daily basis. Many new patients struggle with pain for extended periods of time before coming to see me.

Some of the most common injuries and issues I see include: • • • • • • • •

Low back and neck pain Arthritis pain Bulging discs Tendonitis Misinformed benefits of stretching Stroke recovery Nerve pain Headaches and migraines

• Need for continuous long-term treatments • And most importantly, people are concerned that their issue cannot improve

The majority of my patients tell me they have exhausted all efforts to relieve their pain. I have seen hundreds of patients who are under the impression that no further relief is achievable, or that it’s impossible to have the issue resolved.

This is not accurate in most cases.

There are numerous approaches to assessing and treating all types of health issues in the human body. In my practice, I use a combination of the most clinically proven techniques that exist in modern health care. Because of this, my patients experience significant relief from their pain.

Matt Gibbons DOMP, BSc(O), DCMOEB, CPTS, DO (Spain, 2016) Osteopathic Manual Practitioner Stability Osteopathy 709.747.7463 stabilityosteopathy@gmail.com www.stabilityosteopathy.com

I feel it is necessary for people to recognize the ability we have to heal from our pain and injuries. My personal mission is to change this mindset and to show people that they can, in fact, heal.

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Build a Better Home Gym and a

BETTER BODY

By Katrina Geenevasen-Garlough

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YOUR HEALTH

During our cold Canadian winters, it’s easy to let fitness habits go into hibernation. Don’t let the chillinducing weather get the best of your spring fitness goals — build a better body with a home gym and be summer-ready in just a few short months.

Start With the Basics Whether you’re a gym novice or an experienced pro, start with the basics. All you need is a Swiss ball, a resistance band, a set of dumbbells and a medicine ball to kick start your workout regime.

Swiss balls, also known as stability balls, are one of the most versatile pieces of equipment for a home gym.

Portable, lightweight and easy to store, stability balls have proven to be a highly effective tool in helping users develop a solid core — and who doesn’t want that? Tackle basic moves like pushups, squats and planks on this uneven surface and you’ll be well on your way to a better body in no time at all.

Resistance bands — which are great for all fitness levels — are a fantastic way to build muscle and blast fat. Try a lunge with a bicep curl. You’ll quickly notice how the band forces you to use muscles you might miss with weights alone.

Dumbbells, which are equally versatile and easy to use, have proven to be a staple in many home gyms because they promise an inexpensive way to strengthen and shape muscles.

If running in the great outdoors while the weather is still chilly isn’t your thing, a treadmill might be a good place to start. This stationary machine — which gives you no excuse to avoid a run or a brisk walk — puts you in control by allowing you to control both the effort you want to output and the speed. Incline for more of a challenge, or try a decline to whip those legs into shape. Many treadmills are shock- absorbent to some degree, reducing stress on joints that may prove too tender for hitting the pavement. Another benefit? They allow users to easily track steps, the amount of calories burned and heart rate, making workouts both safer and more effective. If you’re a multi-tasker, catch up on your favourite television show or read a book while blasting fat at the same time.

Are you more of a pedal-pusher? Easy on the hips and knees, stationary bikes have been a go-to for many home gym owners — and for good reason. Available in a wide variety of sizes, price ranges and styles, they’re a great way to get a super cardio workout without stressing joints. Like any other piece of equipment, start small and work your way up to a more intense workout by adding tension.

Like stationary bikes, rowing machines are also easy on joints, and are a great way to safely build and tone muscles. In fact, rowing machines work nearly every major muscle in your body. If weight loss is your goal, rowing is a highly effective way to do it — rowing rapidly torches calories.

If you want to climb your way to a skinnier self, try a stair climber. Great for all fitness levels, climbers are easy to use, and like the machines mentioned above, allow users to easily control speed and resistance. A non-impact workout, stair climbing is great for both cardiovascular health and weight loss because it increases heart rate.

If you want to take your routine to the next level, consider purchasing a Bosu balance trainer. It’s a multiuse piece of equipment that allows you to make your workout regime a little more challenging. If you’re really feeling motivated, try standing on it for a lower body workout while you do upper body exercises such as bicep curls.

Stationary Cardio machines Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals of your get-fit routine, you might wish to make more of an investment in your health and home gym. So where do you start?

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L-R Steve Browne, Paul Kavanagh, Rosalind Kelly and Cathy Power

THE DENTURE CENTRE

SMILE LIKE YOU MEAN IT!

By Amanda Hookey Photos Mandee Sugimoto

L

osing your teeth? Feeling down?

Overwhelmed? Wondering what the solutions are? Fear not, dentures are a really quick and effective solution.

The reality of losing your teeth can cause feelings of despair to surface and can happen to anyone regardless of gender, age, or socio-economic background.

The Denture Centre located at 323 Freshwater Rd. offers fast custom dental solutions with your individual needs at

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the forefront, and is covered under most major dental insurance companies.

Citizens of all ages trust their smiles to local denturist Steve Browne, owner of The Denture Centre. In June of 2000, after finishing school at the Northern Alberta Institute for Technology with a Diploma in Denturist Technology, Browne returned home to Newfoundland, opened up shop and has been providing patients with dental solutions ever since. The Denture Centre specializes in design, construction, fitting and adjustment

YOUR HEALTH

of complete and removable partial dentures, overdentures on implants, teeth whitening and anti-snoring devices.

Recognized by The Denture Association of Newfoundland and the Denture Association of Canada, Browne works in conjunction with dentists and oral surgeons to perfect your smile.

A combined 60 years of experience amongst staff ensures a professional knowledge of dentures. Further, all their work comes with an in-house warranty

“It gives my staff and I joy to help clients throughout the process of getting dentures, and with any future adjustment concerns.”

– Steve Browne

that guarantees customer satisfaction throughout your denture journey.

“Here at The Denture Centre we bend over backwards for our patients,” says Browne, who is a recent winner of the George A. Connolly Denturist of the Year Award. “My staff and I are dedicated to keeping our patients smiling, finding the perfect fit for their teeth and improving the comfort, finding monetary assistance, or on their overall wellbeing by making them confident in their smile again. It gives my staff and I joy

to help clients throughout the process of getting dentures, and with any future adjustment concerns.”

Patient patronage testifies to the service provided at The Denture Centre. Mabel has been fitted for several sets of dentures since Browne opened his business. “I am always impressed, and comfortable at The Denture Centre. Steve and his staff make me feel at home and take care of my denture needs,” she says.

The Denture Centre is open for business during regular business hours, Monday

YOUR HEALTH

to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at a convenient central location. The office can also advise on further assistance if needed.

For a free consultation or to make an appointment, contact Rosalind, dental assistant and office manager.

The Denture Centre 323 Freshwater Rd., St. John’s 709.722.7900

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CITY LIFE

goodbye

RON HYNES

By Darrell Power

W

hen beloved singer-songwriter Ron Hynes passed away last fall, he left a hole in the hearts of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. A troubadour who left a huge mark, Hynes grew up in Ferryland, Newfoundland, on the “more Irish than the Irish” southern shore of the Avalon Peninsula.

His career began with the Wonderful Grand Band, a music and comedy group that formed in 1978.

A copy of the album Living in a Fog was in every house on the island, and long before VCRs and PVRs the province would shut down one night each week to watch, listen and laugh to this iconic, local show. Residents practised the lines on each other and scenes were indelibly marked in the minds of a generation.

Cryer’s Paradise, a slick album that stands the test of time, introduced us to a new Hynes. In 2005, he travelled to England, Ireland and Scotland with Anita Best and Pamela Morgan, Great Big Sea and The Plankerdown Band. During this trip he basked in the glow of “Sonny’s Dream,” yet again. The song was recorded by Mary Black and became a No. 1 hit. He had arrived.

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CITY LIFE

Having battled many “demons” throughout his life, Hynes checked into a rehabilitation centre for a drug addiction in 2004. He turned to his own life story and gave us haunting ballads such as “Dry” and “My Name is Nobody.”

Musicians who played with him remember those years with affection and witnessed perhaps some of his best performances in the years that followed. The songs got better, the awards and accolades grew and the fans of good music hovered closer. Elton John charged $150 for a show at Mile One, while Hynes charged $7 at the Rose and Thistle.

Music is a funny business.

“I met Ron five times. He was nice to me once.” How many people can tell this story?

He barked often from the stage — a product of an old school of performance — but those close to him knew his bark was worse than his bite. In later years, he was quick to point out word and line changes in other artists’ songs, in order to make the songs better. He lived and breathed new songs for days at a time to make them flawless.

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY Cal King; MIDDLE PHOTO BY Ryan Cook; TOP RIGHT Book cover, Breakwater Publishing Nfld

In 2012 he was diagnosed with throat cancer, a tremendous blow for our gifted singer. But he later emerged with a new voice and continued writing and touring.

When the cancer returned, and eventually took his life, the Basilica Church in St. John’s was filled to capacity for stories, reflections and music, rather than a traditional Catholic funeral. It was laughter and tears — the story of his life. The man who had chronicled the most important parts of our recent history — including the sinking of the Ocean Ranger in “Atlantic Blue,” and the senseless murder of a young innocent in “The Ghost of Dana Bradley” — had finally entered into our history himself.

His final work, Later that Same Life, was quietly released on New Year’s Eve 2015, six weeks after he died. An official album launch took place in Toronto’s Hugh’s Room on Feb. 21, featuring some of Hynes’ musical friends.

Hynes explains in the liner notes of his album, “These songs are presented as stark, raw and naked as the skin and bones that held me together all those long and dark days and nights... Thank-you to all of you for being there when you were needed most. I will not forget.”

CD cover art charcoal drawing Roger Schmidt Cover design Ken Tizzard

CITY LIFE

And neither shall we, Ron. Neither shall we.

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ReFINEd Magazine

Catches Up With

THE ONCE

By Melanie Furlong Photo by Mandee Sugimoto

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I

f you enjoy the indie folk tunes of The Once, one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most celebrated bands, you may have caught one of their popular shows in St. John’s this winter.

The band, consisting of the talented Geraldine Hollett, Andrew Dale and Phil Churchill, put out their first album on Nettwerk Records, Departures, last summer and just completed an extensive Canadian tour.

ReFINEd Magazine writer Melanie Furlong interviewed Geraldine about the band, their tours and plans for the future.

MF: How did the band come together?

GH: Phil and I met in college. We played around a bit but our focus was mostly theatre. Luckily, we got a job that landed us with Andrew in Trinity, NL. Rising Tide Theater is where we got our start as a trio. We were shoved together one night for an evening of traditional Newfoundland music. Turns out we sounded pretty good together and we have been going strong, and then stronger, ever since.

MF: How long have you been together?

GH: We formed in 2006. But we didn’t put out an album until 2009.

That’s when things really started moving along with the band.

MF: How do you describe the music you play?

GH: It’s indie, it’s folky, it’s a bit pop-y. It has hints of traditional influence.

MF: What is your creative process like?

GH: We usually write apart and bring everything into the fold to be “Onceified.” That’s when the really cool work happens. The studio is where we have the most fun. We have a no holds barred approach. We try everything. There are no stupid ideas in there.

MF: What are your fans’ favourites?

"We formed in 2006. But we didn’t put out an album until 2009.

That’s when things really started moving along with the band."

GH: According to the Internet, fans like “We Are All Running,” “All the Hours,” “You’re My Best Friend,” and “Nothing Compares to You.” Seems that way at shows as well.

MF: What are some of the most memorable shows you’ve ever done?

GH: In 2014/15, we did a world tour with Passenger and Stu Larsen. The whole thing rocked. We played the Hammersmith Apollo in London. That was memorable. We also played the Olympia Theatre in Paris. Those two were mind blowing. And I would have to say singing “Nothing Compares to You” with Passenger and Stu Larsen at 1st Avenue in Minneapolis was a great experience. Playing with the same guys in Central Park was amazing too. And every show we do at home in Newfoundland is magic.

MF: What is next for the band?

GH: We are off to Australia to record and for a bit of a tour.

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Irish-Newfoundland Film brings

TO THE SCREEN

By Melanie Furlong

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CITY LIFE

Yellow Cats by Maud Lewis; Photo courtesy of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia

N

ova Scotia artist Maud Lewis was a remarkable woman by all standards.

Suffering from debilitating rheumatoid arthritis, Lewis produced and sold bright, cheerful folk art paintings of animals and rural life inspired by her everyday experiences.

She was renowned in her lifetime for painting the tiny Digby area home she shared with her fish-peddling husband, Everett Lewis. Now, a new movie about her life, titled Maudie — co-produced by Newfoundland’s Mary Sexton, Mary Young Leckie and Ireland’s Parallel Film Productions — will bring her story to a much wider audience.

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"I thought she was an inspiration to us all. Her infectious energy and her art cast no shadows. Her determination and desire to live life to the fullest was inspiring."

- Mary Sexton

cent to make their characters come to light. I have tremendous respect for them and love them both.”

Ten years ago, when Young Leckie visited the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and saw the 10 ft. by 12 ft. cabin in which Maud and Everett lived and worked, she became enthralled with their story. She asked well-known Newfoundland writer Sherry White, whose dark sense of humour and writing sensibility was the right fit for the project, to write the script, which focuses on the love story of two outsiders who found each other.

Director Aisling Walsh

Irish director Aisling Walsh, of the BBC miniseries Fingersmith, brought on stars Ethan Hawke, a four-time Oscar nominee best known for films The Dead Poets Society, Boyhood and Training Day, to play Everett, and Sally Hawkins, also Oscar nominated for her work in Blue Jasmine, to play Maud. The film spans 40 years of their life together and was filmed in the Goulds area of St. John’s for six weeks last fall.

While both stars have since left the province, they say they enjoyed their time here and hope to come back when the film is launched in October 2016.

“Both Ethan and Sally are true stars,” says Sexton, who got her start in the film business as a location scout for CODCO. “They embraced Newfoundland, the people, the weather and gave 200 per Ethan Hawke

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CITY LIFE

Young Leckie couldn’t find a Nova Scotia producer to partner with and both she and Sexton were on the board of directors of the Canadian Media Production Association. Young Leckie asked Sexton if she would partner with her on the Maudie project and she agreed immediately.

“I simply love the Maud Lewis story,” says Sexton. “I thought she was an inspiration to us all. Her infectious energy and her art cast no shadows. Her determination and desire to live life to the fullest was inspiring. She was a pioneer folk artist and brought the medium to the world. The fact that she painted her and Everett’s little 10 ft. by 12 ft. cabin inside and out just makes me smile.”

Filming in such a small cabin would have posed serious challenges, but an amazing replica of it was built on set in the Goulds.

The 12 ft. by 15 ft. cabin held enough room for two actors and a film crew, but was built to spec from the original. The

interior went through three phases of painting to recreate different stages of Maud’s life.

While Lewis sold many of her paintings for mere cents in her lifetime, her painting of three black cats, Cats, sold for more than $15,000 at auction in August 2015. Her Deer in the Woods painting sold for more than $16,000 back in 2007.

Choosing a favourite of Lewis’ works is difficult for Sexton.

“What I loved most was that she painted her dustpan with the three little cats!” she says. “She even made sweeping up fun.”

Getting the film made, with development funding from both Telefilm Canada and The Newfoundland Film Development Corporation, has been a major achievement for Sexton and her colleagues. But being able to tell the story of Maud Lewis in a feature film has been a dream come true. “It has been 10 years of hard work and the entire shoot involved a lot of hard work by our entire team, but it is all going to be worth it.

I count my blessings daily that I have my health and I get to do a job I love doing.”

The film’s $6.9 million budget injected a great economic boost into the community with more than half being spent in Newfoundland. The film will be submitted to various festivals, including Cannes and TIFF, and will be released in theatres next fall.

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Passion for Photography

By Lori McKay Photos by Michael Allan Photography

A

ccording to Michael Allan, his life is a new adventure every day. The 28-year-old is a fulltime student working on his electrician’s certificate, he does rope access work offshore and also runs a photography business.

Michael, who grew up in Mount Pearl and currently lives in Torbay, bought his first camera at a Boxing Day sale in 2012.

After that, he used all the extra time he had to learn as much as he could about taking pictures, eventually starting Michael Allan Photography.

“Those are three passions of mine and I like to keep them in balance,” says Michael. “A typical month for me would consist of photo shoots, studying new techniques, and learning about whatever I possibly can. I enjoy doing art shows and meeting with locals to create new contacts.” Most recently, his photos were on display at The Sprout restaurant in St. John’s for the month of March.

“I started out doing portraits and landscapes and I still focus on that today.

It’s one of my major sources of income.

But I’ve expanded to doing engagement and graduation photo shoots, and also videographer work.”

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With experience in almost every photography field, Michael is always interested in taking on a new project.

CITY LIFE

Michael Allan

“I love diversification,” he says, noting that he’s continuously learning. When Michael’s girlfriend asked him if he could do anything with an old and damaged photo she had of her grandmother, he was keen to learn the skill of photo restoration and took a course.

“I love playing around in Photoshop. I feel that’s the best way for a photographer to stand out these days. Anybody can take a camera and take OK photos, but when it comes time to editing, that’s when you can add your own personal style to it.”

One of Michael’s favourite projects was a time lapse of Cabot Tower, which you can check out on his website. “I actually have the stars moving through the sky as the night progressed … If I see a chance when the stars are out my girlfriend knows she’s going to be sleeping alone for the night. It’s such a passion of mine and I hope that comes through in my photos.”

Michael Allan Photography www.michaelallanphotography.com 709.749.1474

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Injury-Ridden

CANADIENS OPPORTUNITIES TO ICECAPS

By Charles Dart Photos courtesy of St. John’s IceCaps

The 2015-2016 hockey season has proved to be an injuryridden headache for the entirety of the Montréal Canadiens hockey organization, and the effects of the trickling wave has reached the rocky shores of St. John’s, the home of the Canadiens AHL affiliate.

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CITY LIFE

T

he Canadiens, who have lost more than 200 mangames due to injury thus far, have relied upon the young prospects of St. John’s to fill the gaps in their lineup as players go down. And, when call-ups have gone down with injury, as is the case with Daniel Carr and Lucas Lessio, the IceCaps have been forced to send more starting roster players to their parent club in Montréal.

But as the injury toll climbed higher, resulting in the loss of significant scoring power for both the IceCaps and Canadiens, both teams have been put on the outside of their respective playoff races. However, the young players and prospects in the system have been able to garner some measure of success out of the injury situation.

IceCaps vs. Utica Comets on February 5 PHOTO BY Jeff Parsons

Carr, 24, along with Bud Holloway, 28, Charles Hudon, 21, Michael McCarron, 21, and most recently Morgan Ellis, 23, have all made their NHL debuts this season with the Les Canadiens during call-up assignments.

Mark Barberio, Jacob de la Rose, Victor Bartley and Lucas Lessio have also cracked the Canadiens lineup this season. Andrighetto, Barberio, and Carr — before his injury — became mainstays on the team.

“You’re just so excited at the time, you don’t really know what to think,” said McCarron about his most recent call-up to the Canadiens. “I’m just smiling. You’re happy and you’re super excited and you don’t want to go back, you want to stay up here [in the NHL].”

And while 10 IceCaps players have picked up the phone for a call to Montréal so far this season, other players are getting the chance to crack the lineup and receive more playing time with the farm team in St. John’s.

McCarron collected his first NHL point on Feb. 27 in his third NHL game.

And while these young prospects have made the trip to Montréal for the first time, fellow IceCaps teammates Sven Andrighetto,

Highly touted goaltending prospect Zach Fucale, along with prospects McCarron, Nikita Scherbak, Mark MacMillan, Brandon McNally, Brett Lernout, Jeremy Grégoire and Josiah Didier have been able to play the majority of the season in St. John’s, showcasing their skills in their first AHL campaigns.

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And like the Canadiens, St. John’s has also had the constant battle with their own roster fluctuations and injuries.

Rookies Tim Bozon and Ryan Johnston made delayed IceCaps debuts on Nov. 27 and Jan. 16, respectively, due to injuries before the start of the season. In addition the IceCaps have seen German rookie Markus Eisenschmid miss 30-plus contests as well as extended periods of injury for Nikita Scherbak and Michaël Bournival, among others.

The situation has forced St. John’s to sign multiple players to Professional Try Out (PTO) contracts to fill roster spots, giving AHL opportunities to those who may not have otherwise. Alexandre Ranger, a 20-yearold Québec native, signed his first PTO contract on Feb. 3 and has demonstrated his talents to the IceCaps and Canadiens brass.

IceCaps vs. Toronto Marlies on February 13 PHOTO BY Jeff Parsons

Although the hotly contested mid-season acquisition of 33-year-old NHL All Star MVP John Scott has made for a storied spectacle for the IceCaps, the real story in St. John’s has been the development of a youthful team with an average age nearing just 23. Injuries aside, the opportunities that have arisen for young players to progress this season should benefit the Canadiens and IceCaps in the future.

We create spectacular.

Come chat with us.

(We have new chairs.)

jac.co

events spring

APRIL 17 Earth Day Fair Suncor Energy Fluvarium

APRIL 23 For the Boys! Featuring Lady Cove with special guest Heather Bambrick Holy Heart Theatre

APRIL 22 NSO Pops – We’ll Meet Again Arts and Culture Centre

APRIL 28 NLPCA 21st Annual Benefit Hockey Game Mile One Centre

APRIL 22 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Retrospective Holy Heart Theatre

MAY 7 Treehouse Presents: SPLASH’N BOOTS LIVE! Holy Heart Theatre

APRIL 23 Newfoundland Symphony Youth Orchestra: Home & Native Land Holy Heart Theatre

MAY 15 Gord Bamford & Joe Nichols Mile One Centre

Slow Roasted Prime Rib...

Only on Fridays

HAPPY HOUR BAR SPECIAL 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Live Music all Night 5 George St., St. John’s | 709.576.5990

MAY 20 Try to Remember: A Night of Musical Theatre Holy Heart Theatre

JUNE 4 21 Gun Salute An Explosive Tribute to AC/DC Holy Heart Theatre

MAY 20 Steve Dawson and Tony McManus LSPU Hall

JUNE 17 & 18 Sweeney Todd Opera on the Avalon (Holy Heart Theatre)

MAY 20 & 21 James Taylor Mile One Centre

JUNE 30 Hey Rosetta!

Live on George Street

MAY 30 – JUNE 3 Beaumont Hamel School Tour (World War I) Opera on the Avalon (Various School locations)

JULY 1 & 2 Ours Opera on the Avalon (St. John’s Arts and Culture Centre)

ENJOY ONE OF OUR DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Every Sunday... Join us for our traditional Jiggs Dinner Buffet 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

FOOD & DRINK

Viognier & Your

Diverse Spring Menu A PAIRING GUIDE

By Amanda Hookey

As spring approaches, the earth warms, crocus push through the soil, life begins anew — providing new vegetation that is parleyed into fresh menu items. Like spring, the palate requires precise conditions to awaken, and a balance between food and wine to create culinary harmony. Synergy is found when we combine food and wine for an experience that is more enjoyable than if they were ingested alone. A classic example of food and wine synergy is lobster and chardonnay. Ingested together their matrimony has been regaled time after time. To a beginner, achieving synergy can be daunting. So, to serve as a resource, this article will explore one grape, viognier, and one wine, The Wolftrap White, and its matches.

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FOOD & DRINK

Viognier

The Wolftrap White

iogniers are versatile, composed and independent, easy to pair and confident on their own. Viognier is characteristically perfumed and complex on the nose, reeking of blossoms, with a mineral palate. The varietal is nomadic with no known origin and produced globally from the Alsace Region (between France and Germany along the Rhine and the Rhone), California, Australia and South Africa.

The Wolftrap White of South Africa blends viognier, chenin blanc and grenache blanc. It is oaked to maturity in French barrels and then bottled to ensure the wine delivers on all levels and expectations. The nose is perfumed of blossoms and spice, tasting of apple and pitted fruits. The naturally present acidity gives balance and finishes with a mouthfeel of smoothness.

Viognier’s origin is a mystery. The elusive grape is thought to be of ancient origin and from Croatia, but no one knows for sure. Historians are baffled about which language the word viognier derived.

And, if that isn’t mysterious enough, this varietal has seemed to come back from the dead. In 1965 the varietal only existed in a secluded area of France, producing less than 2,000 bottles a year. The rebirth of viognier has seen innovative blends, mixing the varietal with red grapes, ushering in viognier’s amazing comeback.

The Woftrap White by Boekenhoutskloof is one notable wine blend comprised predominantly of viognier.

Viognier makes friends easily. The diverse flavour and inherent acidity of this wine matches quickly with the fish and poultry dishes on your spring menus, while the creamy body pairs well with spicier foods such as butter chicken and pad Thai. This wine isn’t letting you down!

V

Pairing

Spring to Summer While reviewing the Wolftrap White, I realized I like my wines like I like my friends — easy to have lunch with and strong enough to stand alone. This wine’s versatility and synergy with ethnic foods and light spring fare make it a go-to in my book.

FOOD & DRINK

The Wolftrap White, South Africa, $15.78 NLC

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DESTINATION SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

OPENS IN ST. JOHN’S

By Melanie Furlong

S

t. John’s has long been heralded as one of the world’s greatest destinations for seafood. Now, people will find the best of local seafood as well as fresh fish from around the world at a new destination seafood restaurant, St. John’s Fish Exchange Kitchen and Wet Bar. The latest venture by St. John’s restaurateur Robert Moore and coowner Justin Garland is located on the former site of Edwin Duder’s global fish

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exchange, where a fleet of 100 ships carried more than 4,500 tons of salt fish to the West Indies, Brazil, Great Britain and continental Europe in the 1800s.

The historic site overlooks the harbour and its colourful fishing vessels, creating a charming ambience that impresses both locals and tourists alike. The warm decor, friendly and knowledgeable service and unique menu make dining at the 140-seat St. John’s Fish Exchange a memorable experience you’ll want to repeat.

FOOD & DRINK

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday with a lobster boil in the private mezzanine, visiting for a conference at the new convention centre or just in the mood for a fabulous feed of seafood, the staff at St. John’s Fish Exchange will make you feel at home.

Moore and Garland say they decided to open a seafood restaurant because they felt there was a void in the city’s marketplace. “Over the last decade, St. John’s has been blessed with a boyant

economy as a result of the offshore oil projects, and there are many great chefs in town doing seafood at certain times of the year,” says Moore. “For us, seafood is definitely the main focus. We’re fortunate to have been able to work with a local grocery chain to bring in the fresh seafood we can’t source locally, from the Maritimes or Boston.”

Executive chef Maurizio Modica has created a diverse menu that features everything from cod and halibut to perch, steelhead trout and monkfish. Traditional Newfoundland dishes such as Cod Tongues and Scrunchions, Cod Jiggs and Fish ’N Brewis were added to appeal to tourists, but have also been a big hit with the locals. There are also new favourites such as Lobster and Shrimp Pappardelle, SJFX Tacos and Modica’s mouthwatering daily features.

Behind the bar, Andrew Laite, manager of bar operations and mixology, offers nine specialty cocktails, each using at least one locally sourced ingredient. One of their most popular drinks is the Jam Jam Martini, fashioned with Jam Jam cookies from the province’s Purity factory. “We took a piece of somebody’s childhood and made it into a cocktail,” says Laite.

Another is the Eighteen 9-2, a drink inspired by the Great Fire of 1892, featuring 100-proof Screech rum that arrives at your table in flames. “This cocktail provides a nice touch on history and is a phenomenal drink as far as I’m concerned,” says Laite.

Since its opening on a stormy winter day in January, the public’s response to St. John’s Fish Exchange has been overwhelmingly positive. Call to make your reservation today!

St. John’s Fish Exchange Kitchen and Wet Bar 351 Water St. St. John’s, NL 709.739.7539 sjfx.ca

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Make Your Own

Mimosa Side Bar

By Melanie Furlong

Hosting a special brunch this season?

Why not set up a charming mimosa side bar that offers plenty of variety for guests?

You'll need the following: • One ice bucket with ice • Three or four glass dishes for fruit • Three or four glass juice bottles • Juice labels • Glasses

Ingredients for the mimosas include: • Champagne • Sparkling cider • Orange juice • Grapefruit juice • Raspberry lemonade concentrate • Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries or pineapple to mix in • Ice

Make all juice and refrigerate in glass bottles the night before. Chill champagne and sparkling cider and set out your table with ice bucket and glasses.

Hang your “Mimosas” sign and other decór. In the morning, put everything out and invite your guests to make their favourite mimosa!

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FOOD & DRINK

· Weddings · Stag & Stagettes · Kids’ Birthday Parties · Grads & Prom · Anniversaries

THE PERFECT FLEET FOR ALL OCCASIONS

When children see the big bus coming down the street for them with lights flashing, they are so excited and have the biggest grins on their faces. Giving the kids, or any group, a great night on the town is always rewarding for us. It gives everyone a nice, fun and safe experience and makes them feel special.

– Larry Daley, owner

Memories Forever takes pride in offering their clients a variety of services that will help make any celebration unique.

Memories Forever Limo 2015 Inc. | 10 Beclin Rd., Mount Pearl | 709.690.7433 info@memoriesforeverlimo.com | www.memoriesforeverlimo.com

TRAVELSCAPES

Plan your Staycation

TRAVEL AND LEISURE DESTINATIONS CLOSE TO HOME

By Amanda Hookey

The Fogo Island Inn 68

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In case you’ve decided to forgo your trip south this year, below are a few options for travel and adventure close to home.

Tour the Irish Loop

T

he Irish loop is a drive that geographically covers half the Avalon Peninsula. Travellers experience breathtaking views, including Mistaken Point, where you can see fossils as old as the dinosaurs, and Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve, one of the most accessible places in the world to see nesting seabirds. The entire trip can be done in one day with memories to last a lifetime.

The Fogo Island Inn Take a drive, jump on a ferry and check out Fogo Island. Owner Zita Cobb has created a tourism industry where the profits generated go into the economy of Fogo Island.

The inn’s architecture is abstract, resembling a wharf constructed on jagged rocks. Perhaps, paying homage to the steadfast people of the island who survived despite adversity and isolation.

People from all over the world have visited the inn with rave reviews. This

The Irish Loop

world-class destination should be on your to-do list in Newfoundland. You won’t be disappointed!

Ocean Quest Adventures Just outside the historic city of St. John’s, in Conception Bay South, is Ocean Quest Adventure, a family-run business specializing in extreme water adventures. Their Close Encounters tours get you up close and personal with nature. Although maybe not for the faint of heart, these tours are definitely oneof-a-kind adventures that will allow you to tick off items on your bucket list. You

TRAVELSCAPES

can choose to be an iceberg hunter, swim with the whales, or explore sea caves and shipwrecks along the perimeter of Bell Island.

The Wilds An hour outside the city of St. John’s, off Salmonier line, you’ll find The Wilds championship 18-hole golf course.

This luxury resort boasts an in-house spa, an inclusive chef-run restaurant, private cabins, and a private bus service available to whisk you off to nearby nature parks and ecological reserves, if it’s an off resort adventure that you desire.

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Get In Touch With

YOUR INNER KIWI Discover New Zealand

By Trina Annand

A

n island paradise, New Zealand is a perfect combination of sandy beaches, lush rain forests, glaciers and icy mountains. The locale’s otherworldly landscape has been used to great effect in both film and television, most notably in Peter Jackson’s rendition of The Lord of The Rings. Startling beauty combined with thriving arts, culture and entertainment scenes ensures there is an adventure awaiting everyone in New Zealand.

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Astounding Natural Adventures Enjoy the Aurora Australis. The New Zealand equivalent of the Northern Lights, this nocturnal display is best viewed from the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Located on the South Island, this 4,300-sq-km area is the world’s largest Dark Sky area and is bounded by spectacular alpine landscapes.

On the North Island, nighttime adventure combines water sport with a guided kayak tour that ends at canyons filled with luminescent glowworms that echo the night sky. New Zealand is no stranger to adventure tourism; in 1988 it became home to the world’s first commercial bungee jumping experience. Now extreme sports enthusiasts can skydive, trek glaciers and dive amidst thriving seascapes.

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From surfing and hiking to skiing and spelunking, natural adventures abound in New Zealand. The country is also home to “the finest walk in the world,” Milfork Track. The 55-km hike features deep lakes, fijords, rainforest and granite caverns.

Luxury Excursions Celebrity visitors such as Beyoncé, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake and British Royal Family have spurred a wide selection of remote boutique lodges that feature spectacular spa treatments. As part of the Rim of Fire, New Zealand is well known for its thermal springs.

As the country’s best know spa town, Rotorua is famous for its geysers and bubbling mud. The town’s internationally acclaimed Polynesian Spa offers bubbling geyser pools for relaxation and a variety of signature services. Their most popular is the luxurious mud polish and aix massage, which uses the mineral-rich muds to purify skin and a massage that takes place under a warm shower with enriching organic coconut oils.

After an amazing spa break, wine connoisseurs can enjoy a wine excursion in one of the country’s multiple growing regions. Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest growing region, producing 76 per cent of the country’s wine and 92 per cent of its sauvignon blanc. The area features nearly 40 wineries and offers tastings of all types.

Cultural Encounters The indigenous peoples of New Zealand, the Maori, have a rich and layered culture that is strongly connected to the lands they call home.

At Te Hana Te Ao Marama, Auckland's leading Maori cultural centre, tribes people offer a wide range of Maori cultural experiences from dancing to education. The culture’s artistry is evident in their intricately carved homes, their highly detailed traditional tattoos and colourful ceremonies. The culture has embraced eco tourism as an important way to protect and preserve their lands. In fact, Tohu Wines is an entirely Maori-owned winery dedicated to sustainable practices.

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You’ll Love Manuels River Hibernia Interpretation Centre and walking trails along the river.

• Ancient trilobite fossils, waterfalls, hiking, geocaching, bird watching, geology and nature guided tours, stream table, gift shop and café with “Lunch on the Rocks.”

SPRING, SUMMER, FALL OR WINTER –

OPEN ALL YEAR, RAIN OR SHINE!

• Rainy day activities include interactive exhibits, daily movie showings and special programs.

• Perfect for meetings, luncheons, dinners, weddings and private celebrations with on-site catering and bar service.

• Wheelchair and stroller accessible trail with access to the Provincial T’Railway.

7 Conception Bay Highway | Located in Conception Bay South – just minutes outside St. John’s!

For hours and updates: manuelsriver.com, 709.834.2099 or info@manuelsriver.com TheManuelsRiverExperience @manuelsriver

MURRAY PREMISES HOTEL

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njoy the comfort you would expect from a modern designer hotel, with the history and charm you expect from the city of St. John’s.

Murray Premises Hotel is located in a National Historic Site on the St. John’s waterfront, with rooms radiating character through exposed 19th century wooden beams, contemporary furnishings and luxurious touches. Atmosphere is paired with a prime location: walking distance to restaurants, quaint shops, Mile One Centre and St. John’s Convention Centre. Modern comfort, uncompromised service and value lead travellers to choose Murray Premises Hotel as their accommodations... again and again.

CONTEMPORARY ROOMS IN AN HISTORIC SETTING. PERFECT FOR BUSINESS OR PLEASURE.

5 Beck’s Cove, St. John’s | Toll Free: 1.866.738.7773 | Local: 709.738.7773 info@murraypremiseshotel.com | www.murraypremiseshotel.com

Infinite Love Collection

AT HOME

Firing Up Your Kitchen

By Trina Annand

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AT HOME

Various types of fireplaces have been used for cooking for thousands of years. As technology advanced and stovetop cooking became the norm, the fireplace was moved out of the kitchen and relegated to the status of decorative feature. Regardless of location, the fireplace is typically considered the heart of the home, and it’s regaining its “kitchen position” as a 2016 home trend.

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rom traditional to ultra modern, fireplace styles are as varied as their owners. Foodies and epicureans are using the kitchen fireplace to great effect — as a rustic grill, a wood fired pizza oven and even an emergency-cooking source when the power goes out. Cooking in a more traditional way is sure to capture the interest of family members young and old, encouraging more family cooking.

Nothing adds flavour to food quite like slowly cooking it over a wood fire; it’s what the barbecue and grilling movements are all about.

If cooking on a wood-burning fireplace doesn’t send your heart racing, and a kitchen fireplace is more about adding ambiance, gas fireplaces are a perfect mess-free option. Burning cleaner and more efficiently than their wood-burning counterparts, gas fireplaces can be found in a variety of models, even providing vent free options, while still providing warmth to a room. If a renovation to add a gas line seems like too much work, electric fireplaces have made great strides in realism and can instantly boost the feel of a room.

With modern, open-concept living spaces, a kitchen fireplace can swiftly become the focal point of a home and be visible from many rooms. Fireplaces are best suited for larger areas, but are created in a variety of sizes and can even be wall mounted or placed at counter height to save space. Centuries ago, fireplaces were so large you walked inside them to cook. Thankfully, modern technology has advanced and homeowners no longer need a luxurious chateau to enjoy fireplace cooking for themselves.

AT HOME

Fireplace cooking tips: Use fruit wood. Fruit wood provides a subtle flavour to food. Avoid pine, which is too smoky for indoor use.

Fireplace cooking isn’t just for meat.

Many vegetables, such as eggplant and squash, can be roasted right on the embers for a robust flavour.

Avoid fatty foods. The grease from meat, such as chicken or rib eye steaks, will create a lot of smoke, leading to a less pleasant grilling experience. When cooking these on a fireplace, make sure you use a roaster or Dutch oven to contain the grease and avoid flare ups.

Take advantage of each fire. After taking the time to build a fire, cook as much as you can in the embers. Use your fireplace to prepare your side dishes, dessert, and maybe even a little something for the next day.

Remember to clean up! Food smells can linger, so don’t leave embers sitting in the fireplace for days.

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Doug Osmond

Osmond’s Furniture

FOCUSED ON QUALITY Photos Mandee Sugimoto

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oving? Downsizing? Need furniture replaced or something to add to your existing décor? Finding the perfect furniture can be overwhelming with many stores selling similar products.

Osmond’s Furniture is a family-owned business where people shop when they want quality furniture. Unique furnishings from notable Canadian manufacturers fill the multi-showroom building.

Now located at 504 Water Street West, across from the Railway Coastal Museum, Osmond’s Furniture was established in 1972 by Doug Osmond Sr. and continues today with Doug Osmond Jr. and his wife

Barb. Both work fulltime in the store.

After 44 years in business, Doug has a keen eye for quality and craftsmanship, and because they personally visit their suppliers, the staff at Osmond’s Furniture can offer their customers the latest trends. Feedback from customers assists the staff with what they will source on buying trips.

The showroom takes in more than 10,000 square feet, with many rooms showcasing Canada’s finest designs.

Guests will find Canadian-made, solid wood bedroom pieces made from oak, birch or maple, as well as nursery furnishings and cribs that convert to double beds that will grow with the child.

Barb Osmond

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AT HOME

Canadian-made sofas, loveseats, chairs and sectionals with endless options, size, firmness and fabric can be customordered to fit your room size and décor.

More recently, you will find prints of skylines and everyday life throughout the store, as well as trendy swivel chairs that are the epitome of comfort and inconspicuous enough for any size room.

“Word of mouth plays a huge role in our success, and we appreciate each and every referral,” says Doug. “We often hear ‘Our entire home is furnished with products purchased from Osmond’s Furniture,’ and ‘We always find something different when we shop at Osmond’s.’”

Live Edge furniture pieces are on display throughout the showroom. “These oneof-a-kind pieces are taken from single cuts of trees. Each piece shows wood grain, and the ruggedness of the tree in nature,” says Doug.

Doug is very pleased that Rick Brown joined the Osmonds Furniture team two and a half years ago.

Many will have had association with Rick when he was the manager at the Sony store in the Avalon Mall.

Rick’s managerial skills, sales experience and developed customer relationships have been a valuable addition to the expanding vision of Osmond’s Furniture.

Rick enjoys time with family and friends as well as a game of golf.

The staff are approachable and understand that furnishing your home is an investment. Your home décor often speaks of the homeowner’s personality. Customers can browse in a non-pressured environment while staff are readily available to assist and inform regarding durability and quality of products, fabric and wood options.

Each employee brings unique skills to the business.

“At Osmond’s Furniture we want our customers to be informed and pleased with their purchase,” says Doug. “If you haven’t been to Osmond’s Furniture, drop in. We’d love to see you. If you’ve been in before, you are always welcome again — you’re sure to find something new and unique since your last visit.”

Chris Kelly started with Osmond’s Furniture more than 15 years ago. His knowledge of products far exceeds many others.

He is a down-to-earth guy who has a warm, friendly rapport with customers, and is always willing to answer questions or address concerns you may have regarding your purchase.

During his downtime, when he’s not spending time with his family, Chris is off fishing or hunting.

Osmond’s Furniture is located at 504 Water St. West, across from the Railway Coastal Museum. Store hours are Monday, Tuesday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; and closed on Sundays.

Osmond’s Furniture 504 Water St. 709.753.8110 www.osmondsfurniture.com

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Welcome Home!

The Narrows Condominiums 47 Duckworth St., St. John’s 709.749.5680 pcooperconstruction@gmail.com

For Your Plumbing Needs‌

Founded more than 90 years ago, James G. Crawford Limited is a family-owned wholesale business supplying plumbing and heating fixtures and materials to the St. John's and surrounding community. Our customer service staff looks forward to assisting you as you choose the fixtures for your new home construction or renovation project.

Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 4:45 pm | 29 Shaw Street, St. John's | 709.579.4062 | www.jamesgcrawford.ca

The ‘Home from the Sea’ Sealers Memorial in Elliston was built in memory of the local fisherman who lost their lives in the turn-of-the-20th-century Newfoundland and Labrador spring sealing industry.

Preserving History & Creating Beautiful Landscapes

By Lori McKay

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n the early 1900s, sealers from Newfoundland and Labrador would brave the dangerous ice flows and sudden blizzards each spring for the sake of the seal fishery. Hundreds of fisherman lost their lives during these expeditions.

In 2014, a group of volunteers saw the completion of a memorial, ‘Home From the Sea,’ in honour of these men. The monument, located in Elliston, is visited by hundreds of tourists and locals every year and has become an important reminder of the history of an industry that shaped the province’s economy for years to come.

St. John’s landscaper Paul Cooper was very proud to be invited to design and build the area surrounding the

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monument. He also constructed the walkway and stairs, and helped with the installation of the memorial itself.

“I was there for every step of the project,” says Cooper, who owns Paul Cooper Landscape & Design. “I grew up in Point Leamington and there were a lot of people in the rural areas who were involved in the sealing industry. The industry today is nothing like it was 100 years ago, with 1,000 men going out for six weeks onto the ice flows. It’s important for people to know about our past.”

You can also view Cooper’s work in numerous locations throughout the city of St. John’s, as he was responsible for the walls behind the city’s Canada Post mailboxes.

AT HOME

“We built the walls behind the mailboxes where they were needed,” says Cooper, who has more than 25 years in the landscaping and design industry.

“We built more than 75 walls in 30 to 40 days.”

Residential Work Although Cooper works on some commercial projects, most of his projects are residential.

He recently completed a unique backyard renovation where an outdated pool area was converted into a luxurious space.

“It was a beautiful transformation,” says Cooper. “The timber that was there was rotten, now with the Pisa paving stones on the surface the entire yard is modern.

“Because we don’t have a high fixed cost structure, we can get the job done efficiently and at a better rate than our competitors.”

– Paul Cooper, owner Paul Cooper Landscape & Design

It just transformed the property. We want people to think about their backyard.

People have pools that are 30 years old made of old concrete now broken up, which can be replaced with these beautiful paving stones.”

Cooper provides all the products and installation services needed for such a job and works with skill and efficiency.

“Because we don’t have a high fixed cost structure, we can get the job done efficiently and at a better rate than our competitors.”

The company has garnered a reputation for designing and creating truly exceptional residential and commercial landscapes with one-of-a-kind hardscape features. They build everything from

retaining walls, fences, walkways and fountains to fire pits, patios, decks and outdoor kitchens.

“These are the durable features that shape and define an outdoor living space,” says Cooper. “We are experts at creating durable outdoor living areas that combine form, function and fashion.”

They also offer horticultural services, such as tree planting and help select and plant flowers and shrubs. They are suppliers of natural retaining walls, waterfalls, water features, trellises and outdoor bar areas.

A well-planned and skillfully constructed yard is always a great investment, as it increases the overall value of a property.

Cooper and his experienced team

AT HOME

will deign and complete the perfect outdoor living space tailored to your personal tastes and built to withstand both heavy use and the ever-changing Newfoundland weather.

Paul Cooper Landscape & Design 47 Duckworth St. St. John’s 709.749.5680 pcooperconstruction@gmail.com www.paulcooperlandscapedesign.com

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EA

EXPERT ADVICE

EXPERT ADVICE

BEFORE

AFTER

HOME STAGING: WHAT IS IT?

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any people have lots of questions about this topic, so in the next four issues of ReFINEd magazine, I will answer some of the most common ones.

as uninviting, cold and sterile. When it’s furnished and warmed up with staging, buyers are so much more likely to fall in love with it. I’ve seen it happen many times!

First of all, we need a definition of home staging, also known as real estate staging.

Staging is the process of preparing a house to sell so it appeals to a broad range of the target market, thus bringing in more potential buyers, receiving more offers and selling faster. Staging cuts a home’s time on the market by more than 50 per cent (RESA 2013) and also brings in 10 to 17 per cent more money than comparable un-staged houses (NAR).

An average staging investment of one to three per cent of listing price generates a return on investment of eight to 10 per cent (NAR).

When is the best time to stage a house?

What houses should be staged?

The simple answer is all houses need some amount of staging, even professionally decorated houses.

Decorating is very taste specific and that is the way it should be when you are living in your house. But when it goes on the market, your house needs to appeal to as many people in the target market as possible. The best way to achieve that is with professional staging. Vacant houses definitely need staging, whether new or old. Most people have a lot of difficulty visualizing and will see an empty house

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That being said, it is never too late to stage your house for the market. You will not get these three advantages, but staging it will definitely increase the probability of selling faster for more money to the buyers who look at it after it has been staged.

Ideally, it is best to stage any house before it is listed. I cannot stress this enough.

There are a few good reasons for this.

1. You will take advantage of the momentum created when a house first hits the market.

2. You will have great photos for the MLS or other advertising platforms.

More than 94 per cent of buyers shop the Internet first. When they see a house presented beautifully, as opposed to one that is vacant or messy and not staged at all, they will choose to see the well presented one.

3. First impressions count, whether good or bad! When buyers walk in that door, you only have one chance to make a good impression.

Those buyers are likely not going to come back just because you staged it at a later date. And keep in mind, the buyers that see your house first are likely the ones that are most interested, and that goes back to taking advantage of the initial momentum.

AT HOME

Cathy Tarrant CCSP Canadian Certified Staging Professional Homestyling by Cathy 709.341.7115 info@homestylingbycathy.com www.homestylingbycathy.com

Making Bathrooms Beautiful

Saunders Bath and Kitchen Gallery… Why not let us help you create your “Picture Perfect” Bathroom Oasis?

271 Blackmarsh Road | 738-2820 | www.saunders.nf.ca

GROOMING Positive therapy that maintains health

711 Blackmarsh Rd, St. John's | Phone: 709.754.4444

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

THE HOME OFFICE is the Way of the Future

By Henny Buffinga

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BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

With most jobs needing only a computer, phone and Internet connection, more people are working from home than ever before. Work/life balance is a hot topic when it comes to business trends, with millennials and Gen-Y workers stating it’s one of their main priorities when choosing a job.

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ccording to the WorkShift initiative, led by Calgary Economic Development, there are about 4.3 million Canadians with jobs that are compatible with working from home. Allowing these people to work out of office, the report states, would have a bottom-line economic benefit of $53 billion across the country, as well as community perks such as reduced traffic and the resulting lower carbon-emissions. As an example of the savings for individual businesses, the report estimates a company that has 250 telecommuting employees would save $3 million a year.

Telecommuting saves employers more than just overhead and rent money; employees who work from home are happier, and thus more productive.

According to Globalworkplaceanalytics. com, 36 per cent of workers would prefer working from home to a pay raise, and 80 per cent of employees consider working from home a job perk. With more than two thirds of employers reporting increased productivity among their telecommuters, it’s clear telecommuting is the way of the future.

According to Smallbiztrends.com, 69 per cent of U.S. entrepreneurs start their businesses from home, and many have employees who work from their own homes as well. For entrepreneurs, starting a business costs an average of $15,000, and cutting the overhead by working from home allows more freedom for the business owner in those important first few years.

For all the telecommuters, planning a specific workspace in the home is a

must, not only for productivity, but also to maintain the boundaries of work and home life. When it comes to planning a home office, Chris Medeiros, co-owner of Response I.T. in Kingston, advocates doing your homework before you commit to the electronics in your home office, since they are the most important tools you will need.

“Getting the proper foundation for the office is the most important thing,” Medeiros explains. “You need to make sure you cover the basics, such as the right computer for your needs, anti-virus software, surge protectors, that kind of thing. Pricing everything ahead of time is a good idea. You need to be careful that you don’t just buy the cheapest printer in the store, because the ink cartridges for that printer might cost $200. You think you’re saving, but you’re not.”

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

Software such as Skype, Microsoft Word and Google Docs are invaluable to creating a cohesive virtual work environment for employees. And for people just starting up, Medeiros recommends getting your own domain name to give a professional first impression via email. He points out that if you are using a provider’s email account and you switch providers down the line, you may lose out on important communications. He also recommends a good signature, stating that it’s the little things that can add up to a more professional image.

With a major hindrance to productivity being workplace distraction, working from home in an environment workers can control helps them raise productivity levels while giving them the work/life balance they crave.

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Broken iPhone? Call the iDoctor

By Lori McKay Photos Mandee Sugimoto

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hat started as a pastime repairing his coworkers’ phones has turned into a full time business for Newfoundland electronics technologist Justin Penney, who opened iDoctorNL, a cellular and tablet repair company, four years ago.

“I was laid off from my job and decided to do this for a little side money, and within a month it completely took off.”

Today, working from a home office with one other technician, Penney is astounded by the amount of people coming to his door.

“The biggest misconception people have about technology is they think it isn’t

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fixable. They just throw it in the garbage and think it’s a lost cause. But for a nominal fee, you can completely replace the screen and it’s a brand new phone.” iDoctorNL specializes in cell phones and tablets — Apple products being the most popular — but Penney says they can fix anything as long as they can get reliable parts.

The most common problem he sees are broken screens. Usually someone has dropped their device on a hard surface, but he’s heard countless smashed phone stories over the years. “I’ve heard, ‘I dropped it in the parking lot and it got run over,’ ‘The Leafs lost and I smashed my phone,’ and ‘My jealous boyfriend threw it

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

across the room.’ I’ve heard it all,” he says with a laugh.

Because most people have an electronic device of some kind, Penney’s customer base includes just about everyone.

“I’ve fixed tablets for two-years-olds right up to someone 90 years old. It’s a wide age group. If they aren’t buying for themselves, they’re buying for their kids or grandkids.”

He says the quality of work and reliability set them apart from competitors.

“I know what I’m doing. I’m not a hobbyist,” assures Penney. “This is my professional career. I am an electronics manufacturer and technologist by trade.”

Justin Penney

If you have issues with your phone, this is the place to go.

Highly recommend him to everyone. Two phones fixed in one day and it didn't break my bank. Thank you so much! – Jean Kavanagh

My phone wasn't charging properly. A quick cleanup by the IDoctor NL and good to go again. Quick turnaround and great service.

– Todd LeGrow

Penney has also become a go-to person for technical advice and was recently interviewed by CBC to weigh in on the Flappy Bird app issue. Since the game was discontinued, people have been selling smartphones with the Flappy Bird app installed for thousands of dollars. His opinion: Spending that much money for a used device just for an app isn’t worth it.

He is always honest and upfront with customers. If he doesn’t think it’s going to be a reliable repair, he doesn’t do it and he tells them why.

“And if it’s something simple, such as lint in the dock connector and they can’t get it charging, some places charge $50 and say it’s a dock replacement. We don’t do that. I would just pull the lint out and hand it to them,” says Penney, noting this happens three or four times a day.

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

Repairs often take half an hour to an hour.

Customers can leave it in his dropbox or drop it off and go get a coffee — when they come back their phone is ready.

Penney also offers a 60-day warranty on his repairs. “It gives customers a little bit of security if they do have any problems.

They can just come back to us. We even offer a discount if it breaks again, just to give it that little bit of extra protection.”

iDoctorNL 709.764.7717 23 Sunderland Dr. Paradise, NL www.idoctornl.com

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MAKE A GOOD Tips for Securing IMPRESSION Your Dream Career

By Melanie Furlong

telling your story in the best possible way.

If you know a company’s dress code is business casual, don’t show up to your interview wearing a conservative dress or suit. You want to show the employer that you’re not only qualified to do the job, but that you can also fit in with the company culture. If you aren’t sure about a company’s dress code, email your interviewer or ask the person who called you to set up the interview. Make sure your clothes are neat and wrinkle-free.

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etting a call for a job interview is the first hurdle. Once you’ve got that appointment, your foot is literally in the door. The management wants to meet you!

But in order to secure that coveted position, you need to convince the interviewer that you’re the best candidate for the job. According to Career Services at Princeton University there are several steps you should take to stand out from the rest.

First, research the organization. Visit their website, review their background and mission statement and assess their products, services and client base. Read their press releases or news stories about the company for insight on projected growth and stability. Then develop a question list to ask about the organization or position.

Prepare your responses to their potential questions. Most interviews involve a combination of resume-based, behavioural and case questions. Practice

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Don’t forget to bring along extra copies of your resume on quality paper for your interviewers, a notepad and pen and a list of references. Bring a portfolio with samples of your work and business cards.

When you arrive in the waiting room for your interview, remember that your behaviour may be reported. Project confidence by smiling, establishing eye contact and using a firm handshake. Sit up straight, yet comfortably. Don’t fidget, bite your nails or tap your feet.

During the interview, pay close attention to non-verbal communication. Maintain good eye contact, but don’t stare while responding to an interviewer’s questions.

Respect their space by not placing anything on their desk.

Finish off the interview with your own questions. Make sure you are not asking for information that can be found on the organization’s website or that you’ve previously clarified in the interview.

If you’ve done a lot of research, your specific questions may really impress an interview.

BUSINESS TO BUSINESS

Some general questions worth asking at the end of your interview:

1

In your opinion, what makes this organization a great place to work?

2

What do you consider the most important criteria for success in this job?

3

How will my performance be evaluated?

4

What are the opportunities for advancement?

5

What are the next steps in the hiring process?

Don’t make these mistakes at your interview: Don’t assume they’ve researched you. And don’t be surprised if your interviewer pulls out your resume, cover letter, blog posts, or anything else attached to your name right there in your interview.

Bring your A-game and be ready to explain your personal brand at a moment’s notice.

Don’t assume your interview will take 30 minutes or even an hour. You never know what turn the interview is going to take and you may end up getting passed around to a few different people. Concentrating on the time you’ll spend in the interview is crucial to your success. The last thing you want is to be distracted knowing you have to run to another appointment while still in your first one.

Work from home? Need an occasional office, professional mailing address, administrative support, training room or boardroom?

These are just a few of our Virtual Services.

We can save you money! We take on the business overhead, and you take care of business!

businessportals.ca

info@businessportals.ca 709.576.4349

THE PERFECT ESCAPE

from the Daily Grind

38 Commonwealth Ave, Mount Pearl 709.221.6700 1 Military Road, St. John’s 709.753.6980 1429 Topsail Road, Paradise 709.782.0251 Ches Penney YMCA 35 Ridge Road, St. John’s 709.726.9622 Manuals River Hibernia Interpretation Centre 7 CBS Highway, Manuals 709.834.2099 Paradise Double Ice Complex 68 McNamara Drive, Paradise 709.782.6220

CoffeeMattersNL

MOTORING

A Truly

CONTINENTAL EXPERIENCE

By Trina Annand

T

he Lincoln name has been synonymous with luxury ever since the inception of the brand. Renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright heralded the first Lincoln Continental, which was produced in 1939, as the most beautiful car of all time. Released as a concept car in 2015, the newest addition of the Continental

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legacy will be available this year after a 14-year hiatus.

Gleaming in rhapsody blue, Lincoln Continental’s signature colour, the Continental concept provides a glimpse into the refined luxury connoisseurs can expect from the automaker’s 2017 Continental model. “Luxury at its best is about simplifying and quietly exceeding

MOTORING

expectations, rather than being the loudest statement on the road,” says Mark Fields, president and CEO of the Ford Motor Company. “The Continental concept showcases the promise of quiet luxury from Lincoln going forward. It’s also a strong indication of what’s to come next year as we introduce our new Lincoln Continental full-size luxury sedan.”

Driving the Continental is not without its pleasures, with a top speed of 249 km/h and an acceleration of zero to 97 km in a mere six seconds. The 3.0 Litre V6 EcoBoost® Engine allows for three different driving modes — normal, sport and comfort. With Lincoln’s 30-way adjustable seats, comfort never looked so good. The seats offer heated and cooled massaging and feature adjustments for each leg independently.

“The Lincoln Continental name is associated with iconic beauty and elegance,” says David Woodhouse, Lincoln design director. “Capturing those qualities and building upon them drove us as we crafted this thoroughly modern sedan concept.” The car features Lincoln’s signature approach detection technology, which senses your approach and lights up inside and out. The sedan features a thoroughly modern silhouette that still connects with its past, but heralds a new world of travel for both driver and passenger.

The interior of the Lincoln Continental is an immersive experience, with lush shearling wool carpet, Venetian leather details and soft gold LED lighting.

Designed as a moving sanctuary, the rear seating even offers a champagne chiller. With the goal of creating a first class travel experience, passengers enjoy luxuries such as the chauffeur’s button, which adjusts the front passenger seat forward to allow the rear seat to fully recline for superior comfort, and a console full of gadgets to control everything from the Revel Ultima sound system to the SPD Smart Glass® tinted sunroof, which creates a personalized ambiance while blocking 99 per cent of UV rays and providing a spectacular view.

MOTORING

Starting at a projected $99,700, the 2017 Lincoln Continental will undoubtedly surpass design expectations while providing all the safety and tech savvy features drivers have come to expect from the manufacturer. “The Lincoln Continental concept is everything we know about cars, and everything we understand about people. And when you bring the two together, you understand why they should never really be apart,” says Fields.

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COVER FEATURE

L-R Ralph Evans, Cecilia Penney, Braden Bradley, Al Andrews

Mercedes-Benz St. John’s BRINGS CUSTOMERS TOP SERVICE & LUXURY

By Melanie Furlong Photos Mandee Sugimoto

The Mercedes-Benz St. John’s dealership at 211 Kenmount Rd. is undergoing a massive renovation. When it’s complete, parking outside will be a thing of the past. Clients will be able to pull up in the indoor service drive-through, hand their keys to a valet and go straight in to speak to their advisor.

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COVER FEATURE

“We’re helping people achieve a dream when they purchase one of our vehicles. This is usually something they’ve wanted for a long time and that makes it a lot of fun.”

- Braden Bradley

“We’re bringing great new things to our customers,” says new general manager Braden Bradley, who notes the renovations are a total of 4,500 sq. ft., increasing both the showroom and service areas. “We’re providing a newly renovated space, fabulous staff and award-winning models.”

The expansion from five to nine service bays will include three service bays dedicated to Mercedes-Benz Sprinters and Metris Vans. This will give their commercial customers quicker service, which is essential to running their businesses.

Another new initiative has been to put an increased emphasis on the company’s customer service offerings. This includes a texting service so customers having their vehicle serviced can send a text to

the service department and find out when it is ready. Another move was to add more service staff and re-work their preowned department. They recently hired a new sales rep, David White. Creating more brand partnerships with local businesses is in the works. The dealership has recently partnered with local fashion designer Sooley Designs, who is having a fashion show at the dealership on May 14.

Bradley, who joined the team last fall, says he’s excited about all the dealership’s efforts to bring customers top service and luxury vehicles. The 28-year-old has a passion for cars that runs deep in his blood. A MUN grad, Bradley grew up in the car business as his family has owned and operated various dealerships in central Newfoundland for three generations. He has extensive experience with luxury cars and has also trained at

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NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) in McLean, Virginia.

Soon Bradley’s passion for cars will be familiar to all customers at MercedesBenz St. John’s, as one of his main priorities is to meet all of the dealership’s customers at some point during their Mercedes-Benz experience. “I’m interested in talking to our customers any time,” he says. “I’ll always be here to discuss their needs and experience with either their vehicle or our service.”

Financial services manager Cecilia Penney also grew up in the car business and has worked every position in her family’s dealerships, starting from the wash bay to reception and sales. The recent graduate of St. FX joined the Mercedes-Benz team in May and says it’s been her favourite product so far. “A lot

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L-R Cecilia Penney, Alison Rose

of customers don’t realize how affordable Mercedes-Benz can be,” says Penney.

“It’s so nice to get the opportunity to sit with a new customer and be able to tell them that the payment for the vehicle of their dreams is no more than the last SUV they had.”

Both are proud to have joined professionals such as Ralph Evans, who has extensive experience with fleet purchases; sales manager Al Andrews; and, Donna Wallace, fixed operations manager on the Mercedes-Benz team.

L-R Josh Greeley, Mike Hicks, Donna Wallace, Brad Puddicome, Bill Parson

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road and off and appeals to the eye with the new design and equipment line.

Mercedes-Benz St. John’s’ best-selling SUV, the GLE, has set new benchmarks with regard to emissions and drive systems with its 2016 models. The advantages of the new GLE include best on-road and off-road handling, outstanding spaciousness and high levels of active and passive safety.

State-of-the-art and efficient drive technology, combined with superior ride quality and the versatility and robustness typical for SUVs - the new GLE has all the ingredients to continue the success story of Mercedes-Benz’s best-seller.

“We’re helping people achieve a dream when they purchase one of our vehicles,” says Bradley. “This is usually something they’ve wanted for a long time and that makes it a lot of fun.”

NEW FOR 2016 Come in soon to see the award-winning Mercedes-Benz line. The GLC, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS, SLC and SL models are all new for 2016 and 2017.

The GLC, the second generation of the mid-size Mercedes-Benz SUV renamed from GLK, represents a big step forward on several fronts. On a technical level,

the GLC clearly makes its mark with the excellent standard of safety that is a brand hallmark, featuring state-of-theart assistance systems. The AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension is unparalleled in this segment, offering the combination of DYNAMIC SELECT engine and suspension modes together with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive.

This increases both ride comfort and agility, regardless of driving surface.

The new GLC represents a systematic step in the implementation of MercedesBenz’s successful SUV philosophy. It combines the ultimate in driving comfort with a sporty touch, impresses on the

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Last spring, at the World Car of the Year awards in New York, MercedesBenz S-Class coupe received the 2015 World Luxury Car award and the C-Class received the overall World Car of the Year award. The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT was singled out as the World Performance Car of the Year.

Stop in to see these amazing models and find out more about what’s happening at Mercedes-Benz St. John’s. And introduce yourself to the team!

Mercedes-Benz St. John’s 211 Kenmount Rd. St. John’s 709.738.2369 stjohns.mercedes-benz.ca

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AVIS CAR RENTAL GOES THE EXTRA MILE

By Melanie Furlong Photos Mandee Sugimoto

I

f you are renting a car at the St. John’s International Airport, you might notice a company onsite going the extra mile for its clients.

depart from the airport, the rover can save clients’ a walk up the hill to the terminal by driving them there in their rental car.

AVIS Car Rental has recently appointed a full-time staff member as a rover — someone dedicated to greeting customers in the parking lot on arrival, helping them with their luggage and offering directions. When it’s time to

“We’re the only company in St. John’s that is doing this and customers are telling us they really appreciate it,” says Darrell Kennedy, AVIS Car Rental owner.

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AVIS has a long history of innovation in its industry and that is reflected in the

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various measures it takes to provide topnotch service and vehicles to its clients.

Another way they do this is by providing select vehicles with winter tires in their fleet to ensure customer safety. “‘We Own the Snow’ is one of our tag lines,” says Kennedy. “And we have the most vehicles with winter tires in St. John’s.

Customer safety is very important to us all year round.”

The AVIS fleet is switched out every six months, offering the largest selection on the Avalon Peninsula and a wide variety of choice in vehicles. From luxury BMWs in the winter to sporty Mustangs in the summer, AVIS always has the right car for you to drive while enjoying Newfoundland’s amazing coast.

Much of the company’s business comes from frequent corporate travellers. Longtime customer service representatives Kelly and Linda have built an excellent rapport with these clients, and know many by their first names.

Kennedy recently received a grateful message from a client who said he didn’t like to travel and dreaded going from one city to another. But when he arrives in St. John’s, the AVIS staff always make him feel like he’s their only client.

For Kennedy, taking care of their customers’ needs and getting to know them is the most rewarding aspect of his business. “It’s always fun dealing with the public,” he says.

AVIS Car Rental and its subsidiaries operate one of the world’s best-known car rental brands, with approximately 5,450 locations in more than 165 countries. Avis is one of the world’s top brands for customer loyalty. Owned by Avis Budget Group, Inc., it operates and licenses the brand throughout the world.

Let AVIS Car Rental look after your car rental needs in St. John’s. Make your reservation by booking online or by calling Kelly and Linda today!

AVIS Car Rental 136 Airport Road, St. John’s 709.722.6620 avis.ca

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Newfoundland. Land of Quattro®

The All New 2017 AUDI Q7

Bill Matthews Audi St.John’s Newfoundland 726.4424

AUDI Q7 Ad ver3.indd 1

2016-04-05 4:02:08 PM

ST. J O H N ’ S

Design Your Ride CarTunes is Your Source for Innovative Vehicle Technology and Security

CarTunes is a one-stop-shop for all your premiere car stereo, GPS tracking, custom interior, collision repair and auto body needs in the St. John’s area. We know your vehicle is a very important part of your life and a major investment. We also believe you should have the car of your dreams — one with a strikingly beautiful interior and exterior, with advanced sound and security features that give you peace of mind and make driving much more enjoyable.

A Trusted Name in Auto Body Repair and Custom Interiors We bring 15 years of experience serving the community, and with our new ownership and new location, we’re able to serve your needs better than ever, with high quality work and fair pricing. With the ability to install custom interiors such as made-to-fit factory seats, you’ll maximize the comfort of your vehicle while raising its value if or when you choose to trade it in. If your vehicle has been damaged due to an accident, weather, vandalism or other circumstance, we can evaluate the damage and provide a timely, professional refinish.

COME BY OR CALL US to assess your auto body repair or custom installation needs. We can provide an accurate estimate.

Car Tunes | 1200 Topsail Road | St. John’s | 709.738.8863 | www.cartunesnl.com

AFFORDABLE LUXURY

47 Duckworth St., St. John’s | 709.749.5680 | www.paulcooperlandscapedesign.com