Vintage Bridal Fantasy a Trip Down Memory Lane

Vintage Bridal Fantasy a Trip Down Memory Lane

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

A vintage bridal fantasy and classic car show was held at the Mannville Recreation Centre on Saturday, May 13.

Pastor Dave Kenney of the Mannville Community Church served as Master of Ceremonies for the bridal show. He said the event was the vision of Shirley Wonsik who wanted to bring the community together. The event was originally going to be held in the church, but the idea expanded to include a classic car show and indoor marketplace which prompted the change in venue.

Wonsik said, “The original idea was brewing back in October, 2022, however, at that time our efforts went into the Kid-Safe Halloween party.

However, our first gown was garnered at that time. Mrs. Chrystal Semeniuk had advertised her gown on Facebook for a bride in need. I contacted her and asked if she didn’t find a bride if she would consider our event. She later agreed and the number one vintage bride and gown was acquired. Along with a tremendous story, that Crystal and Gordon were married in Mannville, so our first full circle moment.”

Bridal models Kelsey Chipman, Louise McCormack and Vicky Lessard.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Chrystal Semeniuk was in the audience with her sister and said she enjoyed the show. Chrystal married Gordon Semeniuk on April 27, 1997, at the Anglican church in Mannville. Chrystal said the reception of was held at the Mannville Recreation Centre.

As for her beautiful wedding dress, she said that she was talking with her aunt about the wedding. Her aunt told her about a bridal store that was going

out of business and was holding a garage sale. Semeniuk decided to go. The original price tag on the gown was $2,200 and she picked it up for $50.

Semeniuk said her dress has been hanging in her closet for years and thought someone else might be able to make use of it. She advertised it on Facebook to give away for free and Wonsik messaged Semeniuk asking if she’d be willing to donate it for the vintage bridal show, and she replied yes.

Flower girl Gabrielle Croket, left, shows how to walk on the runway.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Wonsik also invited her to attend the show and she watched Louise McCormack model her gown. In total, there were 26 bridal gowns, three bridesmaid dresses and three flower girl dresses in the show. Altogether, there were a total of 16 vintage brides in attendance. “Meeting our vintage brides in person was an honour after first hearing their story,” said Wonsik.

One of the flower girl dresses was originally worn by volunteer Gail Woywitka in October of 1955 when she was 11-years-old at her brother Ervine’s wedding in Dominion City, Manitoba. Gail volunteered to help out with the bridal show and was smiling from ear to ear as made sure the models were right on cue for their grand entrance.

Mannville couple Ida and Ricky Romain.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Ida Romain also assisted with the show and her husband Ricky escorted the models on and off stage. Ida also had her gown on display at the show. She and Ricky were married on August 20, 1994 at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Wedgeport, Nova Scotia. She met Ricky through her cousin and fondly recalled how Ricky would propose to her every Saturday night for two and a half years before she agreed to marry him. Nearly 29 years later, the Mannville couple smiled and looked at each other lovingly while sharing some of their special memories.

The ’Just Married Car Show’ was extremely well attended, added Wonsik. “We had over 40 vehicles, from Clandonald, Lloydminster, Wainwright and all points in between.”

In terms of the overall success of the event, Wonsik said, “Our goals were all met, fundraising for Haying in the 30s, building community, meeting new friends; we were all blessed.”