2 For Couples #8—June 2012

t s e b

r e m m su

! r e ev

amazing getaways

5 all-American cities

bucket list!

69

things to do

Awesome Adventures, Sexy Times & Much More!

confessions of a bridal blog addict Dishing with Girl Hunter, Olympians in love & Road Trip 101

Issue NO. 8

making life memorable

Click for tips to create fabulous tables, courtesy of The Great Dinner Party by Mikasa, and share photos of your own inspired tablescapes!

Strada dinnerware and Avenue stemware

Available at

Contents

▶ UPFRONT 07 2LIST: 10 odd couples,

eco-sex & more!

12 Date Night 14 Smug Marrieds: Advice from a

couple who’ve been there 18 Pop Culture 21 Ed and Jenny: “Shapin’ Up” 23 2Profile: Olympians Karen

Cockburn & Mathieu Turgeon

Issue No. 8

▶ INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIVING 26 5 Olympic Sports We’d Like to See! ▶ EXPERIENCE 28 Diaries of a Bridal Blog Addict ▶ SUMMER BUCKET LIST 34 20 Must-Do Moments 40 Road Trip!!

42 Pack It In 44 8 Awesome Adventures 50 How to Have Sex on the Beach 54 6 Must-See Movies 58 Plant a Container Garden 62 6 Sizzling Summer Reads

best

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r e m m u s

! r e v e

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▶ COUPLE MAKEOVER 65 Krista & Will: Dominican Republic ▶ TRAVEL 75 Made in the U.S.A.: 48 hours in

five cities ▶ AT HOME 92 Hello, Neighbor: Mid-century mod 97 Home Tour 107 Get the Look

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▶ RECIPE FOR 2 109 Girl Hunter Georgia Pellegrini 112 Buttermilk Fried Rabbit ▶ PARTY TRICKS 114 VIP Bash 122 A-List Eats ▶ COUPLE SNAPSHOT 128 Gimme a Lift!

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2forcouples.com

3

About 2

Summer Lovin’

Editor’s Letter

summer back in high school? Carefree days, beach parties, young love… We dare you top it this year!

Create new glory days full of love and laughs with your mate.

To help get you started, we assembled Remember that perfect

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your ultimate summer bucket list, featuring more than 60 must-do moments, awesome adventures and party plans. And when you feel like hitting the road, check out “Made in America,” for eclectic weekend Maridav/istockphoto

itineraries in five U.S. cities.

Of course, no summer issue would be complete without a nod to the upcoming Olympic Games. See if you agree with our top five picks for sports we’d like to see in London. Plus, don’t miss our profile of Canadian trampoliner and medal-hopeful Karen Cockburn and her high-flying hubby.

And if you can’t wait for the next issue, get your 2 fix by checking us out here:

Editorial Director

Neil Morton neil@2magazine.com Creative Director

Lisa Walker lisa@2magazine.com Editor

Kellie Davenport kellie@2magazine.com Assistant Editor

Kate Drummond kate@2magazine.com Designer

2day The ultimate blog for couples. Check back for daily stories about love, life and the latest celeb dish.

Charles Kim charles@2magazine.com Creative Services

Karen Hall karen@2magazine.com President And Founder

apps Download the 2 for couples app for iPad! You’ll get this digital issue optimized for iPad, but you’ll also find handy extras like date night ideas, shopping picks and 2Life—a private space to share with your partner.

Got an iPhone? Get the 2 for couples app for info on the go.

facebook Stay in touch with 2 on facebook—get advice, give advice, offer up your 2 cents or just see what everyone’s talking about!

Diane Hall diane@2magazine.com Vice-President

Gerry Brown gerry@2magazine.com Published By

2 For Life Media Inc. 2ForCouples.com 416-469-1429 Ipad App Development

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weddings Getting married? Our top-rated ultimate wedding planner app will keep you on track for the big day! Plus, get your daily dose of wedding-related news and inspiration right in your news feed!

© 2012 2 For Life Media Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

Cover photograph by Finn O’hara

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upfront

2List Insider info and hot tips for you and your mate!

Please Like Us! How to boost your neighborhood street cred and give good couple PR. —Danielle Iversen

from work. ⟹ Get yourself a dog, walk or colleagues ⟹ Hold a garage sale— it as a couple and find other dog-owning folks to walk with or meet up with at a park.

Host a cocktail party at your home and invite all your neighbors. This is an especially good idea when moving into a new ’hood.

Join volunteer groups with couples on your street

⟹ ⟹

Simon Oxley

they always bring the neigh­ bor­hood together!

Join any couplefriendly groups that you both have an interest in.

For example, try a running club that meets regularly.

Put together a charity event or fundraiser and

⟹ ⟹

inform local newspapers about it in order to get media attention for the charity (and you as a couple).

Be gracious and open when meeting others at events.

If the neighbor has kids, suggest a play date at your house so they can relax for an afternoon while you babysit.

⟹ ⟹

2forcouples.com 7

Upfront 2 list

top 10

Mismatched Couples

Love makes strange bedfellows indeed! Check out these odd yet oddly successful couplings. —Benedetta Lamanna

1. Woody Allen & Soon-Yi Previn

The legend­ary director, known for his quirky films and frames, married ex-lover Mia Farrow’s adop­ted daughter, Soon-Yi Previn. Surely there must be a law out there somewhere that makes this illegal?!

2. Megan Fox & Brian Austin Green The buxom babe

and—David Silver?! In addition to the apparent hotness disparity, there’s also that little age gap: She was four when he debuted on Beverly Hills, 90210! In spite of the dif­ferences, they’re coming up on their second wedding anniversary.

3. Howard Stern & Beth Ostrosky

He’s a shock jock with dubious scruples and self-professed mini manhood. She’s a gorgeous model/actress who’s been named one of the 100 sexiest women in the world. Stern supposedly proposed naked in bed, which further cemented their spot on this list!

4. Nicolas Sarkozy & Carla Bruni Maybe there’s more

than meets the eye with this pair, or is it just a case of beauty et le président? The former French prez popped the question to his third wife, model/singer/George Clooney-ex Bruni, after a whirlwind romance just months after divorcing his second wife.

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istockphoto

5. Marilyn Manson & anyone The notorious shock-

rocker famous for his satanic ways has inexplicably had a string of romances with a bevy of beauties, including ex-fiancée Rose McGowan, Evan Rachel Wood and ex-wife Dita Von Teese.

6. Tom Cruise & Katie Holmes

The Mission: Impossible star infamously jumped on Oprah’s couch to declare his love for his now-wife. The Scientologist and the Dawson’s Creek alum also caused quite a stir when they were wed in over-the-top fashion at an Italian castle.

7. Carrie Underwood & Mike Fisher The pint-sized country crooner got hitched to the Nashville Predators forward Mike Fisher in 2010. When the conversation inevitably hits the boards, they must follow The Bachelor rule: When in doubt, make out!

8. Ric Ocasek & Paulina Porizkova The brooding music producer and former

lead vocalist for the synth band The Cars and the bubbly model/former Top Model judge must have bonded over their shared Czech heritage. Right?

9. Adam Duritz & anyone

Falling under the Marilyn Manson category, we are left to wonder: How does this guy do it?!? The dreadlocked musician has dated stunning ladies, from Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox to Emmy Rossum.

10. Ice T & Coco

Ice certainly does love the big-bottomed Coco! The rapper/TV star and the 39DD-bosomed bombshell have enjoyed wedded bliss for more than a decade—with no end in sight! Beauty is most definitely in the eye of the beholder…

istockphoto

2forcouples.com 9

Upfront 2 list

Be an Eco Sexual 5 sex tips to spice up your hanky panky (without hurting the environment!)

—Hailey Dai

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You recycle.

You don’t use plastics. So why not go green between the sheets with Eco‑Sex by Stefanie Iris Weiss!

Do bamboo!

Bed sheets made of bam­ boo actually feel smooth and sexy like silk sheets but they’re ecofriendly to boot!

The genuises at JimmyJane turned us on to the Eneloop rechargeable battery. It lasts as long as 1,000 alkalines—per­ fect for mara­ thon sessions.

Try out some tingly edible nipple gel for a fun sensation.

Ice Queen made

by Earth Herbal is non-toxic and sugar free!

Local is better— even when it comes to sex toys! Check out ecosex.ca for a range of toys, lubricants and movies made in Canada.

10 2forcouples.com

istockphoto

making life memorable

Click for tips to create fabulous tables, courtesy of The Great Dinner Party by Mikasa, and share photos of your own inspired tablescapes! daylight dinnerware

Available at

upfront

Date Night Cuz you should never stop dating your mate!

On a sweltering summer day, cool off with a cold beer and some retro fun at your local bowling alley.

Do a cycling tour of your nearest wine region, stopping in for tours and tastings along the way.

(Don’t drink and bike— book a hotel for the night!)

Pack a blanket, cheese and vino and head to your ‘hood’s prime sunsetwatching spot for some intimate alfresco dining.

See: Savages. Taylor Kitsch and Aaron Johnson star as buddies who share everything, from their lucrative marijuana biz to their girlfriend (Blake Lively). Things go awry when their shared girl is kidnapped by a cartel. Opens July 6.

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Tons of cafés stock their shelves with board games.

Spend an afternoon sipping lattes and playing Sorry!

Go honey tasting! Did you know there are honey som­ meliers?!

If your local apiary doesn’t offer tastings, scope out farmers’ markets for unique varieties.

VERA WANG IS A TRADEMARK OF V.E.W. LTD. WEDGWOOD® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK. © 2011 WWRD. GROSGRAIN, DUCHESSE & WITH LOVE SHOWN.

upfront

Smug Marrieds No-holds-barred advice from a couple who’ve been there!

Derek Chezzi & Angela Pacienza Happily married university sweethearts Angela and Derek live in a leafy neighborhood with their super‑cute son and daughter.

They are the envy of all their friends.

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Q:

My husband won’t admit it, but I don’t think he enjoys my cooking. I’m convinced he sneaks off to his parents house for dinner a few times a week.

Nailia Schwarz

Hmmm…

You’re asking an Italian about food. And this Italian only understands how to socialize around food, so my advice is go forth and learn to cook.

I’d grab a few friends and sign up for some cooking classes. Nothing scary— some grocery store chains offer them or ask a friend to teach you her signature dish. For added fun, find a couple’s cooking class.

Hint: Don’t bother trying to replicate a dish his momma makes. That will open a nasty can of worms.

Angela says…

I love to cook, so this is a tough one for me. If he’s honest with himself, he should be feeling guilty. Go easy or you risk pushing him to the “other” woman. If you agree your culinary arts need improving but have reached the ceiling, find

Derek says…

Alex Mathers

a way to join him on his appetizing escapades with mama. Sounds like you’ll at least get a good meal out of it!

Q:

At parties, my partner constantly defends an unpopular politician for whom he voted in the last election. It’s becoming a bit embarrassing and I dread going out. Is there anything I can do?

Did you vote for this politician?

If you did, stand up for yourself and your spouse.

If you didn’t, ask yourself why your partner and you chose opponents. And if

Angela says…

click to Follow the Smugs on Twitter

@ smugmarrieds

you can’t see one another’s perspective, does that translate to other areas where bigger problems might arise? You should never be embarrassed by your partner—whether it’s a stash of bad jokes or an addiction to young adult fiction.

I would go one step further and say you also shouldn’t ever embarrass your partner.

You’re in this together

derek says…

2forcouples.com 15

upfront smug marrieds

“You can tease each other about lemon water forever more.”

and should strive to make a great team. Besides, your friends sound like a bunch of sore losers. Tell them to get over it.

Q:

My wife wants to do a cleanse and insists that I join her. But I think these are for wusses. Help!

Find your backbone and join her, if not for your health then

Angela says…

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to support the woman you love. If you hate it, it only cost you a few days but the experience will give you something new to bond over. (You can tease each other about lemon water forever more.) If you love it, she can say I told you so as she caresses your newly purified body.

A cleanse definitely sounds like it falls into the realm of

derek says…

meditative chanting and yoga retreats. But while I haven’t done one, I hear from friends who have that it’s both grueling and exhilarating. Besides, nobody other than your wife need know. Tell friends you’re at a work conference or volunteering at a soup kitchen for the week so you have an easy excuse to turn down after work drinks and weekend outings. chuwy

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Beautiful commemorative photo album from the wedding

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Guest book to read all the well-wishes left by royal watchers

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Great articles, photos and features about Will & Kate

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much, much more!

n

Upfront

Pop Culture What to watch, read and listen to this month.

Click for trailer

Watch

Mansome paladin

hipsters and Wall Streeters have in common? They all care about their own particular brand of fashion and facial hair! This doc by Super Size Me’s Morgan Spurlock explores the current wave of man grooming. The film’s producers, Will Arnett and Jason Bateman, even become guinea pigs testing out the latest pedis and facials. (We heard the film may have been partly sponsored by an as-yetunnamed male grooming company.) Worth a look for the Zach Galifianakis cameo alone!

What do punks,

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Rent

Wanderlust

The Other F Word Oscilloscope

Universal Pictures

Pictures

Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston give commune living a shot.

What happens when bad-ass punk rockers become dads!

Goon Alliance Films

Missing hockey already? Get your fix with this rock’em sock’em flick.

Read

Bringing Up Bébé

By Pamela Druckerman

Tomboy Style: Beyond the Boundaries of Fashion

Penguin Press

French women don’t

By Lizzie Garrett Metler Rizzoli

Girls will be boys! Ladies,

take a cue from the guys in this style tome that celebrates gender-bending fashion.

Metler explores the je ne sais quoi qualities of style stars who veer toward menswear looks. The photo-laden book covers 80 years of tomboy fashions, designers, retailers and the adventurous women who sport loafers, trousers and button-downs.

Ripe: A Cook in the Orchard

By Nigel Slater Ten Speed Press

Celebrate the season’s

get fat and we suspect French parents don’t lose their sanity! This tome by an American ex-pat living in Paris hits le spot for many parents. After having a child abroad, Druckerman awed at babies who slept through the night and Parisian tod­ dlers gobbling down foie gras like McNuggets. Her observations show how French parents pepper strict authority with a laissez-faire attitude to raise well-behaved yet creative kids.

bounty in this luscious book by the acclaimed British food writer. Part memoir, part cookbook, part garden primer, the pages burst with colorful fruit and mouthwatering recipes, perfect for any summer table. Slater serves up more than 300 fruitbased recipes, ranging from sugary sweet to savory.

And in between, he provides helpful tips to grow your own bounty at home.

2forcouples.com 19

Upfront Pop Culture

mer m u s r u Yo rack! soundt

2Playlist Summer Sun Koop

m albu e of th h! t mon

like some Dean Brody down-home country crooning!

Open Road Recordings Kick back with a cold beer and crank up the latest album by Canadian singer-songwriter Dean Brody. The B.C. native drew inspiration from both his western roots and his adopted home of Nova Scotia for this followup to 2010’s Trail in Life. Brody combines nostalgic lyrics and toe-tapping rhythms for an uplifting collection of tunes. In the title track, he waxes poetic about Tonka trucks, baseball and the simple pleasures of life. “Canadian Girls” is an ode to cute Canuck ladies in toques, who he describes as “irresistible, lovable, trouble.” But the real gem on the album: “It’s Friday,” an East-meets-West party song featuring the Maritime melodies of Great Big Sea. 20 2forcouples.com

This Must Be The Place Talking Heads Could You Be Loved Bob Marley

listen

Dirt

Love Generation Bob Sinclair

Nothing says summer

Since I Left You The Avalanches Heart of Glass Blondie Surfin’ USA The Beach Boys Ready for the Floor Hot Chip My Friend Groove Armada Young Folks Peter, Bjorn and John

click to preview

Ed and Jenny

watch their (mis)adventures

tV illustration: tarras79

2forcouples.com

21

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Upfront

2Profile The real-life love story of a dynamic duo!

Canadian Olympic

Karen Cockburn & Mathieu Turgeon

Olympic trampolinists on how their relationship soared from teenage friend­ship to matrimonial bliss.

by Kate Drummond

trampolinists Karen Cockburn and Mathieu Turgeon bounced into each other’s lives when they were tweens training at Skyriders Trampoline Place in Richmond Hill, Ont. After years of friendship, the elite athletes were officially dating by the time their first Olympic Games rolled around in 2000.

Karen and Mathieu, the only two trampolinists in Canada to qualify for those games, both left Sydney with bronze medals.

Mathieu has since retired from competition (but he still coaches) and Karen’s career reached new heights when she won a silver medal in both the 2004 Athens and 2008.

2forcouples.com 23

Upfront 2profile

Beijing Games. She is a medal hopeful again this summer in London.

2 sat down with these high-flying marrieds to dish on puppy love, kite­ boarding and baby plans.

⚭ On how they met:

We met at trampoline class when we were really young. I was 11 and Mat was 12. We were friends and training partners for years until I was about 19 or 20 when we started dating.

Mathieu says… As the only Canadian trampoliners to qualify for the 2000 Olympics, we spent even more time together and that quickly developed into a relationship.

Karen says…

⚭ On their first date:

We never had an official first date.

I knew that Mat had a crush on me when we Karen says…

24 2forcouples.com

were teenagers, and I remember hiding in the bathroom because I didn’t want to dance with him at a banquet after National championships.

Mathieu says… She thought I was a dork!

Karen says… [laughing] Yeah, I guess I thought he was a bit of a dork!

But we were training so much together and things started happening that you wouldn’t do with a friend. Once we were driving somewhere and he reached over and grabbed my hand and I thought, friends don’t really do that. It just kind of evolv­­ ed from there.

⚭ On competing in

the same sport:

We always kept our relationship out of the gym. Inside the gym, we acted like team­ mates. And when we

Karen says…

“We met at trampoline class when we were really young.

I was 11 and Mat was 12.” weren’t training, we tried not to talk about trampo­lining too much because we wanted a life beyond the sport. Mat’s been retired since 2006, but he’s supportive and understands when I’m busy training.

Mathieu says… She’s always bouncing new ideas and routines off me.

Karen says… Our ex­ perience as training partners has helped our marriage. We spent so much time together that when we got married and moved in, it wasn’t a huge shock. It was an easy transition.

⚭ On what they love

about summer:

We love having friends over for barbecues and boating at the cottage. We’re both very active and love being outdoors.

Karen says…

⚭ On staying fit

together:

Mat needs danger to feel alive. His new adrenaline rush is kiteboarding and he’s desperately trying to get me hooked on it, too.

Mathieu says… We’ve got a transition plan for Karen when she’s done trampolining!

Karen says…

⚭ On their post-

Olympic plans: Mathieu says…

Kiteboarding trip!

Karen says… I don’t know if I’ll officially retire, but I can’t see myself doing another Olympic cycle

because it’s so grueling on the body. We’ll have lots of adven­tures and we’re going to try to start a family.

⚭ On what they love

about each other:

I love how Karen is so focused on her goals. She’s a very Mathieu says…

thoughtful and sweet person as well. She’ll bake someone cookies on their birthday and do a lot of nice little things.

Karen says… His excite­ ment and joy for life.

Living with him is an adventure. He’s a bundle of energy. He’s also a really nice guy!

2forcouples.com 25

instructions for living

5

Olympic

Sports

We’d Like to See! Kim K Triathlon

⟹ Also known as the Iron

Buttocks, the first leg of the “K” is a pro-athlete speed-dating race. The first 15 ladies to coax an NBA or NFL athlete into a starter marriage move on.

Next up: wedding planning (judged using a 6.0 scale evaluating technical merit, artistic impression, osten­ tatiousness and photo rights’ revenues). The final leg is the separation-announcement per­ formance—with bonus points awarded for the hotness of the compulsory rebound fling.

The IOC may not have sanctioned these “sports” for this summer’s games, but we suspect they would draw a few more viewers than Olympic team handball! —Mike Dojc

1 2

Highboard Belly-Flopping

⟹ Sure, lithely-framed Olympic divers ooze artistry and athleticism during their aerial

gymnastics and perfect pike displays. But entering a pool with mini­mal splash is very anti-climactic. Belly-flopping, on the other hand, unites the courageous skills of highboard divers with daredevil deft. Scoring is based on the following criteria: redness of belly, number of bleacher rows soaked and decibel level of impact (ten point deduction for loss of trunks).

26 2forcouples.com

Rhythmic Slip ’n Slide

⟹ Think of it as a choreographed version of everyone’s fave backyard activity—or a

semi-aquatic version of rhythmic gymnastics. Splashy tumbles and limber movements combine with slide routines performed along a 400-square-foot, sprayed-down surface.

Hula-hoops, balls and ribbons are replaced with props including Super Soakers, over­ filled water balloons and Baywatch-esque flotation devices.

3

5 4

Synchronized Making Out

⟹ These coordinated

underwater kissing ses­ sions, set to pop music, marry the cap­tivating lightness of rhythmic gymnastics with the underwater moves of swimming’s 400-meter individual medley. Points awarded for minimal saliva drippage and smooth transitions from embrace to full-on make out maneuver. This acrobatic smooching feat remains the sport’s highwater mark.

Greco Roman Thumb Wrestling

⟹ “One, two, three, four, I declare a thumb war rrrrrrr-umble,” announces Michael

Buffer. This is the only fight sport where the worst possible injury would be a sore thumb. Competitors don finger puppets to showcase individuality. Warriors then lock fingers with one another in an attempt to clamp down their opponent’s digit to the count of three. A competitor can force a pinky-finger tap-out with an array of submis­ sion holds, from the manicure-killing “Nail Bar” to the “Guillotine Knuckle Choke.”

2forcouples.com 27

experience

Diaries of a BridalBlog Addict

28 2forcouples.com

How I learned to let go of the fairy tale and love my budgetfriendly nuptials.

by Kate Drummond

Alloy/Veer

Dave and I started planning our wedding last spring, we vowed to stick to a budget and not get swept up in the materialism of matrimony. We didn’t want to take the plunge with an anchor of debt tied to our toes.

The early days of wedding planning were as tranquil as a Zen garden at dawn.

We hired our professional DJ friend to man the turntables, booked our firstchoice venue and I even found a stunning gown that was well within our budget.

Like many brides-to-be, I spent hours poring over images of stunning weddings online and quickly developed a big dependency on photos of jaw-dropping gowns, perfectly plump peonies and orgasmic candy buffets.

“It’s inspiration,” I told myself, when I finally peeled my bloodshot eyeballs away from the laptop screen. I was committed to celebrating our nuptials within our means, but what harm could looking do?

A few months before our big day though, ogling the lavish weddings of strangers caused unpleasant side effects.

Rather than conjuring soft-focus reveries of my own wedding, the images

When my fiancé

“I was committed to celebrating our nuptials within our means, but what harm could looking do?” of highbrow vows and their pricey accoutrements triggered anxiety attacks as the gap between them and our modest nuptials became as obvious as an in­ ebriated best man trying to score with the bride’s cute cousin.

I freaked out because—eek!—we wouldn’t have specialized purple lighting or a cinematographer to create a luminous video, scored with cutesy love songs by Ingrid Michaelson or Bon Iver and, oh my god, feathers! How did we overlook feathers?! I feared that our day wouldn’t be as special without these wow-factor details.

A stronger woman would’ve quit the blogs cold turkey and stopped torturing herself with images of princess brides and their fairy-tale weddings. But I was a fullblown bridal blog junkie.

My addiction reached its peak a few months before the wedding when a friend 2forcouples.com 29

experience

“My imaginary Pinterest wedding was spectacular and I was desperate to make our real wedding as breathtaking as my virtual one.”

invited me to join Pinterest, the imagebased inspiration website.

I obsessively pinned and re-pinned custom letterpress menus, DIY place cards and oh-so-coveted designer stilettos onto a board called “Here Comes The Bride.” My imaginary Pinterest wedding was spectacular and I was desperate to 30 2forcouples.com

make our real wedding as breathtaking as my virtual one.

One morning, after perfecting my fake Pinterest wedding until 3 a.m., I told Dave that I was going to sell my dress. “What? Why? That’s crazy,” he proclaimed.

“I think,” I said, my voice shaky from exhaustion and my late-night Pinsanity.

“I think I chose the wrong one.”

“Be confident in your decision,” he said. “You’re going to look stunning and everything is going to be a beautiful.”

Dave’s wisdom is just one of the

billion reasons why I said yes when he asked me to marry him and that one sentence—be confident in your decision— was like the sun rising over my stormy psyche. Selling my dress (at a fraction of what I paid for it) wasn’t going to change my shoestring budget: It would only add more stress to one seriously wigged out bride-to-be.

My rock-bottom epiphany? The endless images of ritzy weddings normalized their extravagance and I lost sight of the fact that these were fantasy affairs designed for people with much deeper pockets than ours.

These were the Gisele Bundchens and Daria Werbowys of weddings: They represented a narrow ideal, an unattainable “standard” for most brides-to-be.

I resolved, over coffee and eggs, to be confident that my once-beloved gown was indeed perfect for me: It, along with the flowers and decor that I chose, fit my personal taste and, most importantly, our budget.

I realized (finally) that our wedding was going to be the best damn wedding

ever because it was ours. We would say “I do” in front of our closest friends and family and there was no way cherry-soled Louboutins or chic Chivari chairs could make our day any more special.

Download 2’s awesome wedding apps for iPad and iPhone!

2forcouples.com 31

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THINGS TO DO, PLACES TO GO, STUFF TO EAT, BOOKS TO READ, MOVIES TO SEE AND DRINKS TO DRINK THIS SEASON!

Summer bucket list

o d t s u m 0 2 s t n e m o m

The funnest, coolest, bestest stuff you can do before september! by kellie davenport

Alen Popov

Mosh at a music fest Okay, maybe skip the mosh pit, but do get tics to an outdoor orgy for the ears.

Our picks:

Cavendish Beach Music Festival (P.E.I., July 6 to 8) Headliners: Alabama, Dierks Bentley Dawson City Music Festival (Yukon, July 20 to 22) Headliners: Ron Sexsmith, Pokey Lagarge & The South City Three Osheaga Music and Arts Festival (Montreal, August 3 to 5) Headliners: Black Keys, Snoop Dog

Host an Olympics viewing party Encourage guests to come dressed as their fave sport.

Think wrestling unitards, synchronized swimming caps and rhythmic gym­ nastics ribbons. Serve medal-worthy cocktails such as the Bodybuilding and Golden Gleam.

Did someone say pic-a-nic??

Pack up and take it to the park for lunch this week­ end. And do it in style with this Clos du Bois set by Tracy Reese. It comes with napkins, wine glasses, corkscrew and a couple bottles of vino. ($135, Clos du Bois)

Perfect your own signature summer cocktail Our reco: the Thyme & Ginger Sour 2 oz. Luksusowa vodka 2 oz. fresh lime juice ½ oz. simple syrup 2 oz. ginger beer Garnish: fresh thyme Shake all ingredi­ents with ice and pour into a rocks glass. Top up with ginger beer and garnish with thyme.

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summer bucket list 20 Must-Do Moments

Make sno-cones!

How’s this for an icy blast from the past: the Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine!

Make like it’s 1982 and trans­­form ice, water and sugar into pintsized frozen treats.

Make your sno-cones boozy To make a sno-cone cocktail, fill a martini glass with crushed ice (or your Snoopy Sno-Cone) and pour one of these mixes overtop:

Un-plan a road trip Hop in the car for a weekend to desti­nations unknown. Fly—er, drive—by the seats of your pants and see where you end up. Stay at a kitschy motel and load up on small-town diner fare.

Summer Sno Squall 1 oz. melon liqueur 1 oz. DiSaronno Originale 1 oz. cranberry juice Garnish: melon ball Choco Sno-Cone 1 oz. Bols Crème de Cacao White 1 oz. Bols Raspberry Liqueur Garnish: shaved chocolate

Mash up a signature playlist Burn onto a CD and give out as a parting gift at your next BBQ. Stumped for ideas? Check out 2’s summer playlist here.

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Michael Flippo/istockphoto (motel sign)

Bike ride But ditch those ’80s-era 10-speeds and cruise around town in style on some trendy two-wheelers by Canada’s own, Opus Bikes.

Men’s Cervin, $584.

Ditch your gas mower Switching to a push mower is a great workout and better for the environment.

Women’s Ivanna, $864

Turn your backyard/ balcony/courtyard/rooftop into a drive-in Fire up your laptop and projector, hang a white bed sheet alfresco and pick a Netflix flick! Their extensive library has movies sure to please your crowd. Just wait for the sun to set and press play for a memorable movie night. (Invite the neighbors to score a few brownie points!)

Gustaf Brundin/istockphoto (mower); Gene Lee/istockphoto (trophy)

Host a tether­ ball tourney Go old school and set up a tetherball station at the cottage or in your backyard.

Don’t forget the “prize”—pickup an old trophy at a thrift store, paint it a neon color and affix an in­ expensive engraved plate to be awarded to the winner.

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summer bucket list 20 Must-Do Moments

Get your bed ready for some warmweather romps!

Run through a sprinkler

For summer, the experts at Au Lit recommend crisp white sheets of pure cotton or linen. Add a hit of color with bright cushions, and switch out your winter duvet for a lightweight comforter.

To fluff and freshen pillows, wash, then dry on hot with a clean tennis ball to pre­ vent clumping.

Yours or some­one else’s.

Watch your garden grow

Pamper each other with at-home pedis The Lush Happy Feet kit makes it easy. It includes a bath bomb for soaking tired toes, as well as foot scrub, mask and lotion.

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The GardenWatch­Cam snaps time-lapse photos of your fruits, flowers or foliage as they blossom and bloom.

Just set the camera’s stake in the ground and let it go.

It’s also great for recording renos you might be starting this summer. blend images/veer (sprinkler)

One word: GRILL!!

Mosey on over to a local rodeo If you’re out West, check out the granddaddy of all rodeos, the Calgary Stampede in July. You can also rustle up some fun at the Festivités Western Saint-Victor in Quebec or Ontario’s Grand Valley Rodeo.

Croquet, anyone??

Don your best Downton Abbey-esque threads and outfit your lawn with wickets. Invite some friends to play and be sure to serve finger sandwiches and lemonade, post-match. istockphoto (croquet)

A sizzling steak hot off the barbecue just screams sum­mer. Even if your balcony is itty-bitty, you can still make an alfresco dinner pour deux.

Try a condo- or apartment-sized model like the Coleman Even Heat Small Spaces BBQ ($350, Canadian Tire). It’s compact but still boasts 460 square inches of grilling room.

Skip the stay­cation… plan a playcation Head to your local water­slide and/ or amusement park. Cap off the day by finding a nearby traveling carnival or fair. Nothing says summer like getting fleeced on the midway by some smoothtalkin’ carnies!

Summer bucket list

ro

! ! p i r t ad

Some rules of the road to ensure a highway to heaven, not a car ride from hell.

by Steff Green

Lise Gagne/istockphoto

outside. You have all the windows down and the a/c blasting in a blatant disregard for your carbon footprint. The iPod blares your fave album, while you belt out the lyrics in off-key giddiness, attracting glances from passing motorists wonder­ ing if you might be torturing a squirrel in there.

This is how a summer road trip should begin. Whether you’re craving adventure or just want to visit a friend, any excuse is a good excuse for a road trip. It doesn’t even matter where you’re going, as long as you’ve got fun people, decent wheels and a great soundtrack. Here are our top tips for planning and executing the perfect summer road trip.

It’s a zillion degrees

what’s your tripping style?

Before you hit the open road, make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to: (a) style of travel; and (b) your ulti­ mate destination. Do you care where you’re going?

How many hours each day will you drive? Do you want to stop at every roadside attraction, or do you need to be some­ where at a certain time?

Will you sleep in the car, in a tent or at a hotel?

Who’s driving? And most importantly: Who controls the radio?

Choose the best ride You want a car that’s reliable, in­expensive, comfortable and fun.

CNN offers a list of the best road tripping cars.

But we reckon the ulti­ mate road tripping auto is either a convertible (wind in your hair, feel like a rock star) or a beatup van (doubles as a cheap roadside hotel!).

Pack the essentials In addition to your own luggage, you’ll need a few road-trip must-haves.

First and foremost: emer­ gency car kit and first aid kit. Next, blankets and pillows for night driving or if you don’t make it to a hotel on time. And, of course, a camera phone for recording the adventure!

Oh, and don’t forget lots of snacks and drinks to keep your energy up.

Pack a few bags of sweets and potato chips, but also healthy snacks like carrot and celery sticks with hummus or sand­ wiches. (Just stash perishables in a cooler and replenish your stock along the way.)

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Summer bucket list

! n i t i k c

pa

Piqué polo $35 Gap

Getaway gear for couples big on style, short on trunk space!

by Kellie Davenport

him

Canvas sneakers $30 Old Navy

Filson duffel bag $335 Oliver Spencer Expedition watch $85 timex.ca

Leather belt $15 H&M

Boss Orange shorts $175 Harry Rosen

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Oxford shirt dress $29 Joe Fresh

Zebra-print fedora $35 Gap

Kate Spade bangle $128 Kate Spade

Bikini top $14 Joe Fresh

Bikini bottom $12 Joe Fresh

Roller bag $195 Lug

her Ipanema sandals $40 LITTLE BURGUNDY

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Summer bucket list

e m o s e w a 8 s e r u t n e v ad

Heli-hiking in B.C.

Trapped in a cubicle all week? Say buh-bye to the boring office and try these wild weekend thrills!

by Kate Drummond

CMH Summer Adventures/Topher Donahue

Wakeboarding

heli-hiking

The love child of snowboarding and waterskiing, wakeboarding is cottage country’s hottest thrill. You’ll need a wakeboard, a powerboat driver and a whole lotta core strength to pull yourself upright as the boat gains speed and tows you in its wake. Once you’re standing, try mastering hilariously named tricks like the Dum-Dum, G-Spot and Slurpee.

WHERE: West Lake Wakeboard School, Prince Edward County, Ont.

A chopper carries you to remote mountains or backcountry that isn’t otherwise accessible. Once you’ve reached your destination, grab your pack—and partner!—to trek into the wild.

You can do it MacGyver-style and bring your own camping and cooking gear (don’t forget the duct tape!). Or join a heli-hiking tour group, most of which offer modern accommodations and a well-stocked bar.

WHERE: Canadian Mountain Holidays in B.C.’s Rocky Mountains

HOW:

HOW:

Deborah Maxemow/istockphoto (wakeboarding); CMH Summer Adventures/Topher Donahue (heli-hiking)

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summer bucket list 8 Awesome Adventures

stand-up paddleboarding

HOW: Stand-up

paddleboarding (a.k.a. SUP) emerged in Hawaii in the 1960s but has recently come into its own, winning the hearts of extreme sport enthusiasts around the globe. Unlike surfing, SUP is easier to learn because you use a paddle to propel yourself across the water. You also have better visibility than classic surfers, which means you can catch more gnarly waves. Along with an exhilarating rush, this adventure will give you a wicked core workout!

WHERE: Potomac Paddlesports in Washington, D.C. 46 2forcouples.com

zip-lining

Calling all couch potatoes: This is the adventure for you! Since zip‑lining is gravity-fed, this adrenalinepumping activity has a high thrill-toeffort ratio. Get strapped into a harness, pray you don’t smack into the trunk of a cedar tree and let gravity do its thang.

Glide over creeks and mountains and get that extreme-sport high without breaking a sweat.

WHERE: Blackcomb Mountain in Whistler, B.C. HOW:

Henry Fu/istockphoto (sup); Roberto A. Sanchez (zip-lining)

whitewater rafting

HOW: A

small group of thrillseekers pile into an inflatable raft and navigate their way through raging, whitecapped rapids. An experienced tour guide steers you through rough waters as you en­counter various levels of torrents. Keep your life jacket fastened and remember that capsizing is half the fun!

WHERE: Eau Vive on Quebec’s Rouge River

canyoneering

is an ideal adventure for indecisive folks because it’s a grab bag of activities: hiking, jumping, stream splashing, rappelling, swimming and climbing. The goal is to explore a canyon using technical gear, such as ropes and harnesses, to help you rappel waterfalls and steep canyon walls. Expect to encounter rapids, creeks and stunning views as you descend the canyon and wield its crevices and waterways.

WHERE: Zion National Park in Utah

ihsanyil dizli/istockphoto (rafting); Geir-Olav Lyngfjell/istockphoto (canyoneering)

HOW: Canyoneering

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summer bucket list 8 Awesome Adventures

skydiving

HOW: What’s

so terrifying about jumping out of a plane?! If you’re a skydiving newbie, you’ll do a tandem jump with an expert instructor. Strap yourself into a harness, buddy-up with the pro and take the plunge. Free-fall through the sky until your parachute opens and you gracefully float back to earth—although your head will likely still be in the clouds after such a sublime rush!

WHERE: Pacific Skydiving in Oahu, Hawaii 48 2forcouples.com

surfing

HOW: Surfing

has maintained its cool status since splashing into mainstream American culture in the 1950s. Before you hit the waves, practice the prone and stand-up riding positions on the beach. When you’re ready to hit the surf, tackle your first few waves laying on your belly. Once you’ve mastered riding prone, try pulling yourself upright to catch a wave and you’ll be hanging-10 like the pros in no time (er, kinda).

WHERE: One Life Surf School in Lawrencetown Beach, N.S. Kristian Ridley/istockphoto (skydiving); Christian Toth (Surfing)

good morning. click for Video

Visit bodum.com

Summer bucket list

x e s e v a h o t w h c ho a e b e h t on

by Steff Green

fancy/veer

in the sand sounds romantic.

But with the risk of prosecution, sand settling where the sun don’t shine and overly friendly crustaceans, it has the potential to be a disaster.

That’s why we’re here to help! Follow this simple guide to summer lovin’ in the sand.

Getting down ’n dirty

Do Some Recon Take a “romantic” walk down the beach to find the prime lovemaking spots. Look for secluded caves and inlets, remote dunes and sheltered grottos. You don’t want to be too exposed, as anyone who catches you is within their rights to call the police. Once you’ve found your “boudoir,” clear away litter, pointy rocks or driftwood, and return later with your supplies.

bring supplies And we don’t just mean protection! You’ll need a couple of towels to form a barrier between you and the sand (and to quickly cover yourselves if any­ one passes by). You’ll also need a flashlight if you’re venturing out at night, a bottle of water for washing off afterward and a bag for the condom.

check tidal reports There’s nothing worse than finding your sandy love-nest suddenly under four feet of water!

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summer bucket list how to have sex on the beach

Pick the right position Missionary, side-by-side or cowgirl all make for exciting sandy sex.

Positions like doggy-style are always fun, but if you’re caught, it’ll be tough to plead that you were just “cuddling.”

Avoid the ocean Sex in the water may look attractive in the movies, but you wouldn’t want a repeat of the opening scene in Jaws, now would you? Plus, water sex can be awkward and uncomfortable—salt water can dry you out down there so you feel like you were canoodling with sandpaper. It also exposes your naked bodies to all kinds of wildlife. Stick to the shore!

Wear easy-access attire Try elasticized shorts or a dress that can be hiked up—getting completely naked increases your chances of getting into trouble if you’re spotted.

Make it quick The thrill of getting caught and being intimate in such a public area will probably make you both hot pretty quick. Now is not the time to practice your tantric moves. It’s best to enjoy a quickie and finish up with a smile than to spend the night in lockup thanks to your Kama Sutra for Dummies book.

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azi g a M 2

t Perfec the en betwe ts! shee

Don’t Miss An Issue Subscribe to 2 Magazine—we’re a cheap date and we’re lots of fun!

now all-digital on issuu and ipad Want more 2? Get the 2 For Couples iPad app, visit 2forcouples.com and “Like” us on Facebook.

Summer bucket list

e e s t s u m 5 s e i mov Get thee to the multiplex to catch these sure-fire blockbusters (and a silly surprise!)

by Kellie Davenport

image one/veer

click for trailer

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter

Magic Mike

Twentieth Century Fox

June 29

Warner Bros.

June 22

It’s True Blood meets Twilight meets History Channel!

Benjamin Walker stars as Honest Abe who, in addition to running a war-torn country, also possesses an uncanny ability to slay 19th-century bloodsuckers.

If that still doesn’t sound intriguing enough, the film is directed by that master of the macabre, Tim Burton.

Seems like any­thing Channing Tatum touches turns to gold (see: 21 Jump Street and The Vow). So, we predict good things for this good-natured romp based on Tatum’s own life. He stars as a stripper with a heart of gold mentoring an upand-coming “dancer.” Sort of a modernday Boogie Nights—but with a taller, hotter lead (sorry Marky Mark!).

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summer bucket list 5 must-see movies

The Dark Knight Rises

The Bourne Legacy

the Campaign

Universal Pictures

Warner Bros.

Warner Bros.

August 3

August 10

July 20

Christian Bale’s back in the cape as Batman in this sequel to 2008’s über block­ buster, The Dark Knight.

This time around, he’s cajoled out of semiretirement to battle Bane (Tom Hardy), a lethal tank-driving terrorist hell bent on the bat’s destruc­ tion. Anne Hathaway makes a frisky appearance as Catwoman.

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A Bourne flick without Jason Bourne (a.k.a. Matt Damon)? At first glance, sounds like a travesty.

But then you watch the trailer with a kick-ass Jeremy Renner as another Treadstone operative, and you’re pumped! We just can’t wait for the inevitable Damon vs. Renner follow‑up!

Will Ferrell stars as a disgraced congressman mounting a comical comeback. Zach Galifianakis plays his naïve political rival. These two provide more gaffs, guffaws and gross-out groans than George W. Bush and Bill Clinton combined!

NEW WAVE COLLECTION

Clean, modern, groovy shapes‌all designed to create a placesetting so unique, it’s been labelled the hottest trend in dinnerware since the fork. Each piece crafted as if it were modern art, yet functional and durable enough for everyday use. villeroy-boch.com

Summer bucket list

a t n a l p r e n i a t con en d r a g Time for some “potty� training: Frankie Flowers shows you how to make your balcony bloom!

by Kellie Davenport

Shannon J. Ross

is the size of a shoebox, you can still grow a glorious garden. Containers make it easy to plant, main­tain and enjoy flowers on even the puniest of patios.

Frank Ferragine (a.k.a. Frankie Flowers) shares his greenest greenthumb tips from his latest book of blooms, Pot It Up. Even if your deck

Consider your lifestyle Are you away a lot or at the cottage every weekend? “Choose higher tolerance plants that require less care and water­ing,” suggests Frank. “And instead of a bunch of little pots that will dry out fast, go for a few bigger pots—more soil means better water retention. You don’t want to be a slave to your garden.” Are you an evening enter­tainer? Frank recommends white flowers and silver-tone foliage: “Both reflect light and will look nice at night.”

Pick a pot “Anything you can put soil in can be a pot—even your actual kitchen pots,” says Frank. Just make sure there’s some form of drainage in the

“Anything you can put soil in can be a pot— even your actual kitchen pots.” bottom. Roots resting in water can lead to rot, so prevent them from sitting in water by adding stones or Styrofoam pieces to the bottom of pot. Or pick up pots with pre‑drilled drainage holes.

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summer bucket list plant a container garden

Pink Perfection: colocasia, calibrachoa, tuberous begonia, pennisetum, wandering Jew

A good con­­ tainer garden comprises three elements: a thriller, a filler and a spiller.

Fill ’er up!

A good container garden com­prises three elements: a thriller, a filler and a spiller. The thriller is the focal point of your arrangement.

Stick to one type and plant it in the middle or rear of the pot. Frank’s top picks: hardy red fountain grass or colorful hibiscus. Next, choose a filler—the plants that provide body and volume. The many varieties of coleus make fine fillers—play with different colors and textures for added drama. Finally, plant a spiller to flow out over the edges. “Try Wave petunias or potato vine, which is an aggressive grower and pretty much fail-proof,” suggests Frank.

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shannon j. Ross

Just eat it No backyard? No problem!

A container can house a selection of lettuces, herbs, cabbage, tomatoes and even celery. To get the most flavor for your buck, plant herbs.

“Many of them, like purple basil and variegated sage, also boast interest­ ing leaves,” says Frank. “You’ll get a beautiful and flavorful container.”

Just remember to cut herbs often.

The more you trim, the more they produce.

Get growing Your pretty pot will require some upkeep. The dirt on dirt: fer­ tilize fre­quently. As Frank explains: “potting soil is a mix, so it lacks all of the nutrients plants need.” Give it a boost by fertilizing every month.

Or try a smart-coat fertilizer, which slowly releases nutrients over time.

To keep those blooms a-blooming, dead head—remove spent stems to stimulate even more flower pro­ duction. Snap off the flower and the stem, down to where it connects to the main stem of plant. It’ll be in full‑bloom again soon! shannon j. Ross

Simply Salad: sweet peas, arugula, radicchio, leaf, Boston and romaine lettuces

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Summer bucket list

g n i l z z i 6s s d a re

unsolved murders, doomed romances, high-society scandals! these red-hot reads will satisfy your appetite for poolside lit.

by Kate Drummond

Allister Clark/istockphoto

The Uninvited Guests

By Sadie Jones Knopf Canada

Suffering from Downton

Gold

By Chris Cleave Doubleday Canada

Elite cyclists, Zoe and

Kate, have been frenemies since they first met. While betrayal and rivalry some­ times plagued their rela­ tionship, they consoled each other through losses and their friendship triumphed. The athletes are put to the ultimate emotional and physical test when they’re forced to compete against each other for a spot on the team for the London 2012 Games, their last shot at an Olympic gold.

Abbey withdrawal? This page-turner, set in an English manor house, offers a satisfying hit of posh Edwardian drama.

The story recounts an unexpectedly eventful day in the life of the eccentric, dysfunctional and unforgettable Torrington family. One reviewer refers to this tragicomedy of errors as “something written by a wicked Jane Austen.”

Could it get any better?!

Inside

By Alix Ohlin House of Anansi Press

Don’t judge this book by

its snow-globe cover: This is one sizzlin’ hot read. It’s not a page-turner of The Hunger Games ilk, but the compelling characters, interwoven narratives and Ohlin’s meditative prose suck you in. And before you know it, you’re on the last page. Follow the novel’s vivid characters from Montreal to New York City, Holly­wood, Rwanda and the Arctic in their quests to help others— and themselves.

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summer bucket list 6 Sizzling Reads

Beautiful Ruins

By Jess Walter

The Boy Who Stole the Leopard’s Spots

HarperCollins

By Tamar Myers HarperCollins

This novel from the

award-wining author of The Secret Lives of Poets is lauded as his funniest, most romantic read yet.

The story begins in 1962 on the Italian coast where a young man falls for an American actress, whom he later discovers is dying.

The story resumes in present-day Hollywood when an elderly Italian man appears at a movie studio, searching for the woman who stole his heart decades earlier.

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Set in the Belgian Congo

And Laughter Fell From the Sky

By Jyotsna Sreenivasan HarperCollins

Meet Rasika, a beautiful

Indian-American woman who, despite financial independence, lives at home to play the role of dutiful daughter. As her 26th birthday approaches, she agrees to an arranged marriage with the brood­ ing Abhay, while keeping her trysts with other men under wraps. The novel explores the difficult task of embracing your identity while juggling cultural expectations.

of the 1950s, this spinetingling mystery features murder, mayhem, super­ stitions, snakes and secrets! After an unsolved disappearance ignites a series of unfortunate happenings in the beauti­ ful town of Belle Vue, a pretty American mission­ ary teams up with the police chief and a local witch doctor and his wife to solve the crime.

Couple Makeover

Krista & Will 2 helps summer camp sweethearts get back to nature in the Dominican Republic!

Click for Video

Photography by James pattyn Styling by by Margo Ducharme, Chris Tyrell and Jim Searle 2forcouples.com 65

5 things you need to know about these happy campers:

1 2

The site of their budding romance was Camp Tawingo near Huntsville, Ont.

After dating for eight years, Will popped the question—while snowshoeing near their beloved Camp Tawingo.

3

Guess where these summer camp sweethearts got hitched? Yep, at the outdoor chapel of good ol’ Tawingo!

Krista & Will Their love story reads like a YA novel: They bunked at the same summer camp but didn’t fall in love till years later when they were working as camp counselors. For their 10th anniversary, 2 took this fun-loving couple out of the woods and onto the beaches of the Dominican Republic for a style makeover!

4

In keeping with the camping theme, Krista and Will co-founded a website selling kayaks and other outdoor gear.

5

Pre-makeover, these nature nuts tended to stick to hiking gear and sporty styles.

But 2 broke them out of their fashion rut!

Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus As part of Signature Vacations’ Premier Collection, the all-inclusive Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus in Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, is one of a select number of hotels that have been rated by other Signature travelers as best in class. One glimpse of its fantastic accommodations and it’s easy to see why. Soak up some rays on the white sand beach, take a cool dip in one of three pools, savor dinner at a specialty restaurant and then retire to a comfortable guestroom to recharge for tomorrow!

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Chop, chop! Krista went under the scissors to lose several inches— and look years younger.

Though his do was short to begin with, Will’s stylist used clippers to give his hair texture.

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Will and Krista show off their sunny new looks before taking a stroll on the white sand beach at the resort.

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The rosy welcoming committee at Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus.

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This sporty couple loves to play together. We say that’s a slam dunk!

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Surf’s up! Will shows off some stylin’ board shorts while Krista keeps it easy, breezy in an airy tunic.

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While checking out a local artisan market, Krista sports trendy tangerine stripes while Will keeps it cool in cargos.

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Can I have this dance? The dancing duo takes a pre-dinner turn around the resort’s checkerboard courtyard.

Click for Video

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What moves you?

click for Video

“For me it’s fantastic cooking and good fun. That’s why I got together with the T-Fal gang to design my new stainless steel Professional Series. Tested in my restaurant kitchen, they’re incredibly tough – in your choice of non-stick or pure stainless. T-Fal’s Thermo-SpotTM is a bit of genius too. It tells you when the pan’s hot and ready to seal in moisture and flavour. So get inspired. It’s cookware that moves you.”

TRAVEL

48 Hours in five All-American Towns

crossroads creative

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TRAVEL

Downtown Pittsburgh

The Steel City’s prodigal sons may sport black and yellow uniforms, but Pittsburgh was also home to cultural greats like Andy Warhol and mister rogers. Give this eclectic gem another look! by Kellie Davenport 76 2forcouples.com

Jeremy edwards/istockphoto

4 p.m.

4 p.m. noon

2 p.m.

noon

For some old-school luxury, book a room at the Omni William Penn. The historic hotel (JFK stayed here!) is located in the heart of Pittsburgh’s downtown core making it walking distance to many of the city’s must-sees.

2 p.m.

Ditch those hunger pangs by stopping at a true Pittsburgh institution: Primanti Bros. Since 1933, this legendary sandwich shop has been serving their “Almost Famous” sandwich—your choice of deli meat topped with coleslaw and fries! It’s like a meat and potatoes meal in one hand. There are now 17 locations throughout the city, but it’s worth a trip to the original shop in The Strip District.

4 p.m.

Now that you’re fueled up, head over to the Andy Warhol Museum. While NYC and Studio 54 may have been his playground, Warhol called Pittsburgh home. To celebrate his life and iconic art, the museum features permanent collections and rotating exhibitions. Be sure to take a stroll through the self-portraits gallery for a look at this fascinating figure. omni hotels & resorts (hotel); visitpittsburgh.com (all others)

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travel pittsburgh

noon From your hotel, walk over to Station

Square for brunch at Grand Concourse. While the menu of traditional fare is delicious, the real star here is the setting itself. The restaurant is housed in the historic Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad Station.

Originally built in 1901, it’s outfitted in marble, brass and mahogany and boasts a spectacular stainedglass cathedral ceiling. (This place is very popular on weekends, so reserve ahead.)

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

Paint the town black and yellow and catch a Steelers game or see college ball’s Pitt Panthers in action at Heinz Field. From downtown, just follow the hordes of fans walking across the Roberto Clemente Bridge over the Alleghany River. You can also take a riverboat shuttle or water taxi to drop you off by the stadium’s riverside entrance.

6 p.m.

Make your way to the bustling Strip District for dinner at Kaya restaurant.

This laid-back resto boasts an eclectic roster of island cuisine, featuring dishes of Caribbean, Pacific and South American descent. Wash down dinner with a refresh­ ing mojito or one of 18 beers on tap.

2 p.m. Raise a final

toast to your Pittsburgh retreat at The Church Brew Works. Housed in a former church (is this a trend here or what?!), this brewpub seems especially appropriate if you’re visiting on a Sunday! Say a reverend cheers as you sip a Yuengling, local draft of choice and America’s oldest brewery, and plan your next visit to the ’Burgh.

noon

2 p.m.

9 p.m.

Stick around the Strip and make your way to Altar Bar. This centuryold church turned music venue is both architectural marvel and musical wunder­ kind. With a capacity of just 650, wrap­ around balcony, colorful stained glass and a cutting-edge sound system, it’s the perfect spot to catch a rock, punk or metal show.

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jeff greenberg/visitpittsburgh.com (fans); visitpittsburgh.com (all others)

TRAVEL

Detroit Institute of Arts

With its exciting revitalization efforts and preserved architecture, the city that gave us Madonna, Motown and Eminem promises a truly eclectic experience. by Kate Drummond detroit institute of arts

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travel detroit

noon

With its five award-winning restaurants, central location and rea­ sonable rates, the recently renovated Westin Book Cadillac offers Detroit’s swankiest accommodations. The build­ ing has been restored to its former 1924 splendor, making it the perfect starting point for your Detroit adventure.

1 p.m.

Built in 1976, the GM Renaissance Center is now General Motors’ global headquarters and a Motor City must-see. Take a free tour of the complex, which includes a tropical Wintergarden and a showroom displaying the company’s specialty cars. The tour ends on a high note with a glass elevator ride up to the 72nd floor for breathtaking panoramas of the Detroit and Windsor skylines.

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The Detroit Tigers roared into their posh new “den” in 2000 and you’ll be impressed with Comerica Park’s amenities: a Walk of Fame chronicling Tiger history from the late 1800s; a baseball-themed Ferris wheel; and centerfield’s “Liquid Fireworks,” which synchronize music to spraying fountains of water.

Bursting with colorful buildings and striking murals, south­west Detroit’s cheerful Mexicantown neigh­ borhood serves up authentic south-ofthe-border cuisine. The revitalized area’s eponymous Mexican Town Restaurant serves up refreshing pitchers of margaritas and the city’s showiest appetizer: flaming cheese.

vito palmisano (renaissance center and Comerica park); bill bowen (mexicantown)

10 a.m.

Eastern Market, Motown’s open-air farmers’ market, has provided agriculture to resi­dents of Detroit and surrounding areas since 1891. Every Saturday, the sprawling urban market­place hosts hundreds of vendors who sell fruit, veggies, fresh-cut flowers, homemade preserves, grass-fed meats and other artisan goods.

10 a.m.

1 p.m.

The Detroit Institute of Arts boasts an impressive collection that is ranked among the top six in the U.S. It’s housed in a spectacular 1927 Beaux-Arts building, with its diverse pieces displayed in more than 100 galleries. Some notable must-sees include Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry and Vincent Van Gogh’s Self Portrait.

8 p.m.

4 p.m.

Once coined a “temple of transportation,” Detroit’s abandoned Michigan Central Station symbolizes the city’s frenzied rise and fall. The ornate building, designed by the same architects behind NYC’s Grand Central Station, operated for 75 years before the last train departed in ’88. Sadly, the Corktown landmark has given way to vandals, daredevils and vagrants, but it’s still worth a look.

8 p.m.

Corktown is Detroit’s oldest neighborhood and home to trendy bars and restaurants, including Slows Bar-B-Q. The Southern-inspired menu offers Carolina-style pulled pork, blackened catfish and the house specialty: baby back ribs, slowly smoked and dry rubbed.

noon

noon

If the crumbling Michigan Central Station represents Detroit’s tumult­uous past, then the revitalized waterfront symbolizes its future.

The formerly bleak riverfront now boasts miles of greenway, an Under­ ground Railroad Memorial, butterfly gardens and art installations. Perfect for an afternoon stroll with your sweetie.

2 p.m.

In 1959, the now-legendary Berry Gordy, Jr. established Motown Records and christened a small house in Detroit, “Hitsville, USA.” The house headquarters was the springboard for artists includ­ ing The Jackson 5 and The Temptations. A museum since 1985, the Motown Historical Museum maps the journey of Motown’s prized artists. eastern market corporation (market); bill bowen (slows); vito palmisano (riverfront)

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TRAVEL

The Magnificent Mile

The Windy City. The Second City. Chi-town. Whatever you call it, Chicago’s got it goin’ on! Whether you’re a foodie, a superfan or a mega-shopper, you’ll discover the best of the Midwest here. by Kellie Davenport 82 2forcouples.com

Steve Geer

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noon

For a stylish and convenient home base, check into the Sofitel Water Tower Place. You can’t miss it—just look for the 32-floor glass prism near Michigan Ave.! Staying here puts you smack dab in the middle of it all, with the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and Lake Michigan just steps away.

1 p.m.

Get a feel for the city and its colorful history aboard an architecture boat tour (tours leave hourly). See Al Capone’s Speakeasy, the innovative Boeing building and the few remnants from the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Be sure to pop below deck to grab a pint to sip as you cruise.

3 p.m.

Hop on the ‘L’ and make your way to one of baseball’s last remaining shrines and home to the league’s cursed Cubs: Wrigley Field. (There’s no tourist shame in posing for a pic outside the iconic red sign!) Scoring Cubs’ tics is akin to getting your hands on Leafs tickets in Toronto—it’s tough.

But not impossible: Check Craigslist on game day and you might even find some at face value.

8 p.m.

After a long day of sightseeing and cheering, unwind at Gioco, a South Loop gem of a restaurant. This local fave dishes up rustic Italian cuisine in the coziest of settings—think original brick, candlelight and corners made for canoodling. Sample one of the flavorful wood-fired pizzas or housemade pastas with fresh seafood. jim kruger (boat tour); Agnieszka Szymczak (wrigley field); Kardas Photography (Gioco)

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travel Chicago

11 a.m.

If you like a little punk with your pastries, grab brekkie at the rock’n roll-inspired Bleeding Heart Bakery. (We suggest the doughnut breakfast sandwich…mmmm.)

This Ukranian Village café is a fave among visiting rock stars and celebs, so keep your eyes peeled for bleary-eyed musicians!

11 a.m.

2 p.m.

SHOP! They don’t call Michigan Avenue the “Magnificent Mile” for nothing!

Peruse chic department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s or pop into stylish designer boutiques to score some Midwestern duds.

7 p.m.

After dropping your shopping bags back at the hotel, make your way to the vibrant River West neighborhood and score a table at Public House. This bar/resto serves up mussels, Memphis-style back ribs and mini Kobe corn dogs. But the real fun is already at your table—your own set of taps to pour whisky, vodka or cool microbrews.

2 p.m.

9 p.m.

Head west and catch a show at the historic Congress Theater. Built in 1926 as a movie house, this 3,500-capacity music venue features ornate interiors and a classic revival façade. It’s hosted everyone from Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis to Wu-Tang Clan.

7 p.m.

11 a.m.

After kicking back with a room ser­vice breakfast, head over to the Hancock.

The John Hancock Observatory remains a defining icon of Chicago’s skyline. And with the fastest elevators in America, you’ll find yourself on the 94th-floor lookout in just 39 seconds! On a clear day, you’ll see up to 80 miles and four states: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin.

2 p.m.

Walk due east from the Hancock and make your way to the shore of glistening Lake Michigan. Nearby Oak Street Beach is like an oasis in the heart of downtown Chicago— stretches of soft sand and blue water. Rent a beach chair and soak up the sun while you enjoy your last views of the city’s world-class skyline.

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MATTY WOLIN (PUBLIC HOUSE); Kenneth O’Quinn (observatory); christopher arndt (beach)

TRAVEL

Portland skyline with Mount Hood in distance

Discover why the birthplace of Portlandia is so much more than a drizzly town of microbrew-guzzling hipsters and tree-hugging vegans.

by Kate Drummond travel portland

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travel portland

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Check into the Hotel Monaco. This funky Kimpton hotel is located downtown, close to the Pearl District, Saturday Market and “Old Town” Chinatown. Mingle with fellow visitors and enjoy a compli­ mentary aperitif at the hotel’s nightly wine socials.

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Satiate your grumbling, post-flight bellies with a guided tour of Portland’s famous street fare. Snack on Thai skewers, poutine or HawaiianKorean barbecue as your tour guide, Brett Burmeister, briefs you on the history of the city’s curbside eats.

3 p.m.

In the early 20th century, Portland had 20 miles of rosebordered streets, hence its moniker “The City of Roses.” Founded in 1917, Portland’s International Rose Test Garden is the oldest official continuously operated public rose test garden. Stroll through a labyrinth of flowerbeds and sniff a variety of blooms, from the hardy floribunda to the long-stemmed grandiflora.

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Bursting with trendy bistros and lounges, Portland’s Pearl District is the place to be after dusk.

Try the Clyde Common, a Europeanstyle tavern serving non-fussy gourmet in a causal and energizing setting— think barn boards, communal dining and attractive wait staff. Nibble on entrees like mac & cheese or grilled steak with kimchi puree, while some of Portland’s top mixologists shake things up behind the bar. hotel monaco (hotel); travel portland (all others)

10 a.m.

Located beneath the Burnside Bridge, the Portland Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the U.S. Since its inception in 1974, the market’s become a hot spot for local handicrafts.

Browse through aisles of artisans’ goods, from one-of-a-kind jewelry to bamboo musical instruments.

2 p.m.

Portland’s been coined “Beervana,” thanks to its 30-plus micro­ breweries. But in recent years, the city has also experienced a boom in micro distillers.

Distillery Row is home to several indepen­ dent distillers who handcraft unique, awardwinning spirits, from Eastside Distilling’s Coffee Rum to New Deal Distillery’s smoky Hot Monkey Pepper-Flavored vodka. Tour their warehouses and enjoy a tasting to discover the “spirit” of the city’s distillation revolution.

7 p.m.

You’ll be spent after shopping and “spiritual” exploration, so kick your feet up at one of Portland’s movie brew­ pubs. Head over to Mission Theater where you can enjoy pub grub and a pint while watching a recent release.

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You can’t visit the nation’s most environmentally friendly city without reveling in some of its natural beauty. Only a ten-minute drive from downtown, Forest Park is America’s largest urban wooded area. The park overlooks the scenic Willamette River and boasts more than 70 miles of walking and hiking trails. Diehard trekkers and weekend walkers alike will enjoy the scenery, old‑growth forest and abundance of Douglas firs, Oregon’s state tree.

noon

Reward a brisk morning hike with a warm apple fritter or Portland cream doughnut from the famed Voodoo Doughnuts. While the health department prohibited Voodoo’s earlier NyQuil-glazed and Pepto Bismal-dusted creations, the avant-garde doughnut shop still has many exotic concoctions, including a bacon maple bar, where “the meat greets the sweet!”

1 p.m.

You’ve had culture, cocktails and crullers, which means you’re missing one more element to a great vacation: competition! Don a Portland Timbers jersey and root for the city’s Major League Soccer team at Jeld-Wen Field.

Liz Devine (theater); Adam Sawyer (park)

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TRAVEL

Mission Beach Boardwalk

You’ll come for the weather, but you’ll stay for the great eats, entertainment, culture and, yes, spectacular surfing.

by Stephanie Gray 88 2forcouples.com

san diego convention and visitors bureau

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Stay close to the action and check into the boutiquey Hotel Solamar. It’s located in the buzzy Gaslamp Quarter, just steps from downtown shops, restaurants and PETCO Park.

2 p.m.

Animal-lovers shouldn’t miss the San Diego Zoo, home to more than 4,000 animals, including three giant pandas. This renowned zoo maintains elaborate habitats like the Monkey Trails and the unique Polar Bear Plunge. Be sure to wear your walking shoes as there is plenty of ground to cover.

7 p.m.

No trip to San Diego is complete until you’ve savored some authentic Mexican cuisine.

A stone’s throw from the stadium, Lolita’s tends to draw sports enthusiasts, so don’t expect anything fancy—just enormous portions, best washed down with a beer or two.

Juan Farfan (lolita’s); san diego convention and visitors bureau (all others)

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travel san diego

10 a.m.

10 a.m.

Surf­ ing and San Diego go hand-in-hand.

If learning to ride the waves sounds thrilling, consider booking a lesson. The San Diego Surf School is a great place for beginners, with group lessons available on the hour.

1 p.m.

After you’ve built up your appetite paddling up a storm, relieve those hunger pangs at the Pacific Beach AleHouse, where you’ll be able to sip local microbrews and indulge in some classic pub fare like burgers and flatbreads.

Get cozy on the deck and soak up the ocean view.

3 p.m.

Home to baseball’s San Diego Padres, the open-air PETCO Park boasts great views from every seat.

Cheer your way through the innings and fill up on traditional ballpark delights.

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8 p.m.

Sip a drink (or a few!) and still maintain a conversation at The Tipsy Crow. The third floor (a.k.a. The Nest) has a comfy atmosphere with two fireplaces and a custom marble bar. The bar’s signature Salty Dog cocktail is a must!

noon

10 a.m.

Catch a few extra zzzz’s and do brunch at Café 222, home of the famous Peanut Butter and Banana Stuffed French Toast, which Bobby Flay touted on Food Network’s The Best Thing I Ever Ate.

noon

Squeeze in a taste of the arts and culture scene at Balboa Park. As the country’s largest urban cultural park, you’ll find gorgeous gardens, art venues, restaurants and 15 museums, including The San Diego Museum of Art, best known for its Spanish old master paintings.

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HI-LO HOLIDAYS Save or splurge in 4 hot spots

HELLO, NEIGHBOR!

A peek inside a real couple’s home

Must-read!!

*PARTNER

PET PEEVES...

SOLVED! Solutions from a marriage counselor

PLUS: 10 CHICK FLICKS MEN DIG, TIPS FROM A CULINARY CASANOVA & LIVING WITH A SERIAL HOBBYIST

ISSUE NO. 3

survgivuaidl e!

Y O U R ID AY HOL

LOVIN’ S: GA LAS VESPAS!

INSIDE: COUPLE MAKEOVER GOES TO FLORIDA!

!

POOLS LS! CHAPE

48 HOURS IN SIN CITY

THROW AN EPIC

PLAYING HOUSE

CITY MICE

XMAS PARTY!

Eat, drink, be merry. Repeat

A rad theme, the best booze & more

Peek inside an amusing abode

COUNTRY HOUSE

A downtown duo in a rustic retreat

*SEXY SOS Must-read!

PLUS: LIFE LESSONS FROM 90210, A DATE WITH DANIEL NEGREANU & CHEESY LOVE SONGS

ISSUE NO. 4

*

Must-read!

QUICK ’N DIRTY

How to sexify 5 not-hot situations

IM Th e U LT

C ou pl e’s

AT E

G ui de

to V E G

AS!

GETAWAYS 48 hours in 3 chic cities PLUS: ROCKIN’ HANUKKAH TUNES, GIFTS FOR THE HARD-TO-BUY-FOR & TURKEY DINNER 101 ISSUE NO. 5

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at home

Hello, Neighbor!

Katrina & Neil put a modern spin on a 120-year-old house. by emma reddington, the marion house book blog Photography by Kristin Sjaarda

couple photo: John Currid

Katrina and Neil were happily biking along when they noticed a “For Sale” sign. It was love at first sight: They bought the house that very day, without even glancing at another.

Since then, Katrina, a designer by trade, has infused the home with her quirky mid-century style. And Neil’s still enjoying the ride!

Ten years ago,

Katrina is a designer and runs her own design firm, Red Fred Design. She loves all things mid-century modern. Neil is an engineer who only uses the kitchen as a thoroughfare to get to his Mini in the driveway.

Occupations:

A lovingly renovated twostory, semi-detached house.

Dwelling:

Q:

How long have you lived here?

Neil says…

Q:

Ten years.

When was the house built?

Katrina says…

Way back in 1892.

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At Home Katrina & Neil

Q:

Got any kids or pets?

Chester is our firstborn— he’s a 10-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog. And Fred, our human son, is five.

Neil says…

Q:

In which room do you spend the most time? Why?

The third floor. It’s my office as well as our family room. It’s light, bright and a great space to be in.

Katrina says…

The kitchen. I’m responsible for all the cooking, so I can’t really get out of there.

Neil says…

Ummm, that’s some strong sarcasm! The only time Neil is in the kitchen is to eat something I have cooked!

Katrina says…

Q:

What changes have you made to the house?

Although we have made changes to every room, the front of the house has probably changed the most.

Katrina says…

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“Our resident mannequin, Gloria, is a great conversation piece and a good anti-theft device!”

We have landscaped, painted, put in a new path, steps and porch skylights.

But my absolute favorite improvement is the front door I designed. It is dis­ tinctive yet works with the Victorian facade. I also love my new laundry room. I almost enjoy doing laundry now! Almost.

We also did away with the tiny Victorian closets.

Neil says…

Q:

What is your favorite moment and/or object in your home?

Our resident mannequin, Gloria. She attends all our parties and always makes her presence known on the front pathway at Halloween. She’s a great conversation piece and a good anti-theft device!

Katrina says…

The barber’s chair from France! It’s definitely the coolest computer chair on the planet.

Neil says…

Q:

What influences you? From where do find inspiration?

“My absolute favorite improvement is the front door I designed.

It is distinctive yet works with the Victorian facade.”

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At Home Katrina & Neil

I am a big fan of midcentury modern design. Many great designs of today are still influenced by this era. I have a passion for scouring design resources, new and old, for the eclectic and the unusual.

Katrina says…

Q:

Where is your favorite place to visit?

Berlin. I did a term of architecture school there and was fascinated by the city. It’s edgy, gritty and artistic, while also being modern and cosmopolitan. It is an incredible place to explore and get lost in. My

husband and I went back for a visit and we hope to go again soon.

The Dizzy Gastro Pub on our main street, just a stone’s throw away from the house. It’s my home away from home.

Neil says…

Q:

What are you reading at the moment?

Katrina says…

Running with Scissors

by Augusten Burroughs.

Katrina says…

Neil says…

Mainly the worldwide web.

As featured in The Marion House Book A buzz-worthy blog and collection of stories devoted to interior design, cooking, baking and DIY stuff.

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at home

Hello, Neighbor: Tour Katrina & Neil’s centuryold mid-century modern abode. the marion house book blog Photography by Kristin Sjaarda

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“I have a passion for scouring design resources, new and old, for the eclectic and the unusual.” —Katrina

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“The barber’s chair from France is definitely the coolest computer chair on the planet!”—Neil

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At Home

How to retro-ify your abode!

BowHaus doggie den $600 DenHaus

Outdoor pillows $35 (set of 2) HomeSense

Fabric sofa $2,199 EQ3

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Small wire pendant $105 West Elm

Panton Junior chair $140 Modern Seed

Vintage photo poster $30 Tracey Capone

Urban Nature COLLECTION

Clean, modern, groovy shapes‌all designed to create a placesetting so unique, it’s been labelled the hottest trend in dinnerware since the fork. Each piece crafted as if it were modern art, yet functional and durable enough for everyday use. villeroy-boch.com

recipe for 2

Georgia Pellegrini The Girl Hunter talks game, guns and great food.

by Kellie Davenport photography by Terry Allen

Recipe for 2 Georgia Pellegrini

up at Whole Foods or the butcher down the street. But not Georgia Pellegrini! This former Wall Streeter-turned-chef goes right to the source—and then hunts and butchers it herself. Now that’s what we call “local”!

She documents her food philosophy in her latest book, Girl Hunter: Revolutionizing The Way We Eat, One Hunt at a Time.

Born and raised in New York State, Pellegrini tried her hand at the investment game, but quickly cashed out to pursue her real calling—food. “I wanted to do something more creative and more about where I come from—which is a family that loves cooking and living off the land,” she explains.

After graduating culinary school, Pellegrini worked in France and NYC at various fine-dining outposts. But some­ thing was still missing. “As life becomes more fast-paced, we lose sight of our natural human instincts and where we come from,” she says. “Our relationship with food becomes totally disconnected.

Being a chef, I want to understand every facet of food.”

So, she swapped her stilettos for rubber boots and a rifle. Over the course Most chefs stock

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“We are hunters and gatherers at our core. So hunting makes you feel more awake as a human being.” of a year, which she would later document in Girl Hunter, Pellegrini killed, cut and cooked her own meals. As she explains, “Humans are omnivores; we are hunters and gatherers at our core. So hunting makes you feel more awake as a human being.”

But losing your hunting virginity shouldn’t be taken lightly. Pellegrini’s first hunt took place in the Arkansas Delta, where she set out to tag a wild turkey. “The first kill is an emotionally intense moment,” she says. “It’s powerful.

But it also feels very natural and normal.

It’s in our DNA and it’s how humanity got to where we are today.”

And what of those activists who decry hunting as cruel to animals?

Pellegrini would argue the exact opposite.

“I treat animals with integrity, unlike

the inhumane treatment they often receive at corporate-run farming oper­ ations, in which chickens are bred so big they can’t walk and pigs lose tails because they are so crammed into pens.”

“For me, it’s about an animal having lived a full life in the wild, acknowledging it had a soul and killing it cleanly without suffering. There is an intrinsic spirituality to it,” she explains, “You don’t get that when you grab a pack of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the grocery store.”

Pellegrini also points to the purity of the process: “I can make sure the meat is pure—that there is nothing added. It also makes you think about what you’re eating and what that animal ate and how it

changes the taste of the meat.” And unlike mass-produced meat, Pellegrini and her like-minded hunters ensure there is nothing wasted—every organ gets used.

Through her year of hunting, fishing and foraging, Pellegrini also shot down some stereotypes about hunters. She’s a self-professed girly-girl who loves her lip gloss and Louboutins—who also happens to tote a rifle.

“I can wear lipstick but I can also shoot a deer and cook it for my family.

Hunting shouldn’t be reserved for middleaged men or boy’s weekends,” she states.

“But it isn’t a sport for me. It’s about food.

It’s a more honest approach to being an omnivore and a human being.”

Keep reading to try one of this Girl Hunter’s fave recipes!

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recipe for 2

Buttermilk Fried Rabbit Are you “game” to try one of Georgia Pellegrini’s fave recipes??

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terry allen (Georgia)

Buttermilk Fried Rabbit Serves 4

1 young cottontail rabbit, cut into serving pieces 2 cups buttermilk 1 medium onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves, diced 1 tsp. oregano

Soak rabbit pieces overnight in buttermilk with the onions, minced garlic, herbs, paprika and cayenne pepper.

Drain in a colander, leaving some herbs on the rabbit. In a large resealable bag or plastic bowl, mix the flour with the garlic and onion powder along with remaining 2 tsp. of cayenne and a pinch of salt and pepper.

1 tsp. thyme

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet on

1 tsp. tarragon

medium-high heat until a pinch of flour starts to sizzle when

1 tsp. smoked paprika 1 tsp. cayenne pepper

dropped in the hot oil (the oil should not be smoking).

Place the rabbit pieces in the bag with flour mixture and shake until thoroughly coated. Do this in small batches, dredging just

2 cups flour 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. onion powder 2 tsp. cayenne pepper

enough rabbit to fit in pan at one time.

Add the rabbit to the skillet and fry on one side for about 10 minutes, until golden brown. Flip and fry for another 10 minutes, again until golden brown. Be careful to keep the

Salt and pepper

oil hot enough to fry the rabbit, but not so hot that it burns.

2 to 3 cups grape seed or vegetable oil

Remove rabbit from the skillet and place on a wire rack over paper towel. Season immediately with salt and pepper to help preserve the crispiness. It’s best served immediately or cold.

Before cooking a rabbit or a squirrel, it’s best to soak it in salt water for several hours or overnight. This helps extract any impurities and retain moisture during cooking.

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Party Tricks

VIP Bash There’s more to summer than backyard barbecues!

Treat your A-list friends to a fashionable dinner party that’ll have everyone talking. photography by james pattyn

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The Menu drinks Fresh juice cocktails Beer and wine

Bold seasonal blooms and oversized, overlapping placemats add drama to your table. Use bangles as napkin rings—they’re the perfect accessories to this fashion-inspired collection by Monique Lhuillier Waterford.

APPETIZERS Spicy citrus shrimp Yellow gazpacho MAIN COURSE Grilled swordfish with coconut-lime sauce Mango-pepper salsa desserts Chocolate treasures Individual pavlovas

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A free-standing shelving unit makes a perfect easy-to-access bar. Remember to set out cock­ tail tools like a shaker, strainer and stir sticks.

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Serve individual-sized portions of shrimp in martini glasses, so guests can mingle and munch.

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To make a fashionable statement, dress your table in Monique Lhuillier Waterford.

Shown here: Étoile Platinum dinnerware, Étoile flatware and Atelier stemware.

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Skip the steak! Grilled swordfish and tropical toppings add a fresh twist to a summer menu.

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Make your own pavlovas!

Serve alongside bowls of fruit and whipped cream, so guests can build their own treats.

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Spoil your pals with a celeb-worthy parting gift.

Transform store-bought sweets into chocolate treasures by serving in gift boxes.

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Party tricks party Tricks

A-List Eats

Treat your friends like the VIPs they are with these scrumptious, celeb-worthy recipes!

Spicy Citrus Shrimp

photography by James Pattyn

Spicy Citrus Shrimp Serves 8

1 cup olive oil 1 head garlic, separated, peeled and roughly chopped 1 cup orange juice 1 red pepper, cut into 1-in. pieces

Place all ingredients (save shrimp) in the glass jar of a blender.

Cover jar with lid. Blend on chop setting until marinade is well mixed. Transfer marinade to a large bowl and add shrimp.

Toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 to 8 hours).

Preheat grill to high. Remove shrimp from marinade and grill for 1½ to 2 minutes per side, until opaque. Serve immediately.

2 Tbsp fresh-squeezed lemon juice ¼ cup balsamic vinegar 2 Tbsp lemon zest, grated ¼ cup fresh basil 2 tsp. hot sauce 2 lb. jumbo shrimp, deveined, with shell on

Garnish shrimp with a lemon curl: Using the middle hole of a zester tool, scrape a thin strip around an unpeeled lemon. For a tight curl, wrap it around a straw before serving.

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party tricks A-List Eats

Yellow Gazpacho Serves 8

2 jalapenos, roughly chopped

Place all ingredients in the glass jar of a blender. (Work in

8 medium yellow tomatoes, cut into 1-in. pieces

setting until it’s reached the desired consistency.

2 yellow peppers, cut into 1-in. pieces

batches if necessary.) Cover jar with lid. Blend on the chop

Chill until ready to serve. Garnish with croutons and chopped scallions.

4 scallions, roughly chopped 1 cucumber, seeded and cut into 1-in. pieces 1 cup fresh basil 2 Tbsp fresh tarragon 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce Salt and pepper to taste

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Crunched for time? Make this soup the day before and refrigerate— the flavors taste even better after a day to mix and chill.

Grilled Swordfish with CoconutLime Sauce Serves 8

1 14-oz. can unsweetened coconut milk

To make the sauce, place coconut milk, cream of

¼ cup sweetened cream of coconut

jar of a blender. Cover jar with lid. Blend on medium until

½ cup fresh-squeezed lime juice

mixture through the lid’s food chute. Blend until emulsified.

2 jalapenos, roughly chopped

cilantro. Season to taste. Set aside.

2-in. knob ginger, peeled and roughly chopped

Preheat oven to 350 F. Spread remaining coconut onto

1 Tbsp lime zest, grated

Set aside to cool.

coconut, lime juice, jalapenos, ginger and zest in the glass smooth. With the motor still running, slowly add oil to the Pour mixture into a bowl and fold in ½ cup coconut and

a cookie sheet and toast, stirring twice, until golden.

2 cups canola oil ½ cup plus ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut ½ cup cilantro leaves, chopped

For the swordfish, heat grill to high. Brush both sides of each steak with oil and season with salt and pepper.

Grill fish for 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until just cooked through. Spoon some of the sauce onto each

8 8-oz. swordfish steaks

plate and top with swordfish. Garnish with toasted

Salt and pepper to taste

coconut and Mango-Pepper Salsa (see next page).

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party tricks A-List Eats

MangoPepper Salsa Serves 8

2 mangos, peeled and cut into 1-in. pieces

Place all ingredients in a food procesor.

1 red pepper, cut into 1-in. pieces

Blend on pulse setting several times until fruits and vegetables are chopped. Serve over Grilled Swordfish (see previous page).

1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 1-in. pieces ¼ cup fresh-squeezed lime juice ¼ cup rice vinegar ¼ cup cilantro 1 clove garlic, roughly chopped

This tropical-inspired salsa makes a tasty topper for grilled chicken and burgers, too!

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Individual Pavlovas Serves 8

3 egg whites ¾ cup sugar 1 tsp. cornstarch

Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks appear. Gradually add sugar, beating constantly, until stiff peaks start to form. Fold in cornstarch, vinegar and vanilla.

1 tsp. white vinegar 1 tsp. vanilla extract

On a parchment-lined cookie sheet, spread mixture into eight rounds, each about 4 in. in diameter. Use the back side of

1 mango, peeled and cubed

a large spoon to slightly hollow each disk’s center. Bake for

1 starfruit, sliced

set and cool inside oven for about 1 hour.

1 cup pineapple, cubed

1 ½ hours. Turn off oven, keep door closed and let pavlovas

Remove cookie sheet from oven and invert pavlovas onto a

2 cups strawberries, sliced

work surface. Peel parchment from bottoms and arrange them

1 cup blueberries

on a large platter. Serve alongside bowls of mango, starfruit,

1 cup raspberries

pineapple, mixed berries and whipped cream, so guests can top their own treats.

1 cup blackberries 2 cups whipped cream

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Couple snapshot

Gimme a Lift!

Amber & Timy, Minneapolis, Minn.

“A friend of ours got a fancy new camera and he wanted to try it out. So he asked us to ‘model’ for him at Loring Park.

This was our best couple pose!”

got a great pic?

Tell us the story behind your fave photo together and you could be our next “Couple Snapshot.” click here to share now!

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