Couture Weddings & Events 2022

Photo by Satya Curcio Photography

For all of your Groom-ing needs, let Wally’s Barbershop take care of you for that special day. of the

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Voted Best Men’s Haircut 2015 2016

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Wally’s Barber Shop

314 E. Holly St. #100 Bellingham, 360.647.0807

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Little Weddings To Love Mary and Alfonso

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Event Must-Haves

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DIY Libation Stations

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Event Planning 101

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Shower Time

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Surprise Party Do’s and Don’ts

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Little Weddings To Love

Photo by Satya Curcio Photography

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Event MUST-HAVES

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HINK IT THROUGH! When planning an event, there are steps to ensuring it is as beautiful as you can imagine. The first step is to come up with a theme, no matter what type of event — this is so important in creating continuity and consistency throughout the space. Here are some event musthaves to help you along the way in designing your perfect space.

LISA KARLBERG

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Candleholders These can be incorporated at different heights to add ambiance and interest.

Table Numbers They will help guide your guests to their seating arrangements as well as help you to place them with the guests they are coming with.

Centerpiece Think out of the box here!

These can be low so that your guests can see over them, high enough that guests can see through them, or a mixture of both throughout the space.

Bring the Ceiling Down Create intimacy by adding elements that hang from the ceiling. It can be as simple as a chandelier or as intricate as large branches hanging with bistro lights strung throughout. Whatever it is, remember to bring in your theme.

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Place Settings Trust me, they matter. Keep it simple and elegant with white, then add colored napkins or use large chargers. Finally, top with plates and corresponding napkins with unique napkin holders. Have fun with this!

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DIY Libation Stations WRITTEN BY JENN MIRANDA

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RGUABLY THE MOST popular place at the party, the beverage bar is the heart of any wedding reception.

Self-serve stations are the perfect way to keep everyone loose without all the hassle or the big price tag that comes with a fully-manned bar. From personalized signature cocktails to alcohol-free ideas and kid-friendly bars, we’ve compiled a range of ideas to make your libation station memorable and unique.

Beer Beer lovers will be in heaven with small batch, pour-you-ownpint barrels. Simply choose your brews, set out some clean glasses, and let your guests start pouring.

For an even easier self-serve beer set-up, simply fill an old wheelbarrow with ice and add a few varieties of your favorite bottled brews.

Cocktails For an extra easy set-up, pre-make bride-and-groom (or bride-and-bride or groom-and-groom) signature cocktails and arrange them on simple wooden crates. Guests can grab a drink and get on with the party.

Perfect for brunch or mid-day receptions, a Bloody Mary bar can serve double-duty as a snack table. In addition to the main drink ingredients, set out cheese bites, pickles, olives, or even strips of bacon. Guests can spear the garnishes into their drink or pop them straight into their mouth. Be sure to post a simple recipe for Bloody Mary novices to follow.

Champagne and Wine Keep it classic with champagne! Arrange a selection of champagne or your favorite sparkling wine along with plenty of flutes for easy pouring. For extra oomph, set out an assortment of fresh berries so guests can add a hint of fresh flavor to their bubbly.

For a fancier look, convert a refinished vintage dresser into an entire self-serve wine bar. Pro-tip: use the drawers to store extra glassware, napkins, and bottles.

Coffee It’s easy to understand why coffee bars are all the rage at receptions, particularly those in the colder winter months.

A hot cup of coffee is an easy way to keep energy levels at full-fun or to help guests sober up at the end of the party.

Dress up a coffee dispenser and fixings area or offer a full hot beverage spread with carafes of coffee, cocoa, and cider.

For the Kids Who says beverage bars are just for adults? Let kids in on the fun with a fancy milk and cookie bar, a fruity lemonade stand, or a root beer float station. Fun straws, edible garnishes, and bright mocktail napkins will lead to even bigger smiles.  94

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Event Planning 101 Know your venue’s limits.

WRITTEN BY ANELYSE BOHLKE

VENT PLANNING IS not for the faint of heart. Putting together a party, conference, or ceremony takes a lot of effort and excellent time management skills. With endless factors to consider, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and let the event get on top of you. Luckily, we’ve assembled some tips of things to consider when planning an event.

Depending on the event you’re planning, you might be hosting it at a third party venue like a theater or a hall. Spaces like these are beautiful and can make your event that more special, but it’s important to know what policies they have in place. How does parking work? Is outside food allowed? Is there a maximum for guests? Are animals and pets allowed? Is there an emergency plan in place? Knowing this in advance will help make sure things run smoothly during your event and ensure no unwelcome surprises.

Make a schedule (and stick to it).

Have a backup plan.

Whether you’re planning something a year in advance or a day in advance, developing a schedule is a great place to start.

Know when venues need to be booked by, when deposits are due, and when important guests are available. Once you iron out the logistics, make a rundown of the day. Break it down by the hour if you have to!

In life (and event planning) things don’t always go according to plan. Sometimes guests could have a food allergy or a speaker could show up late or weather could suddenly take a turn for the worse. Being prepared for these surprises by having back-up options available, like tents in the case of bad weather, will reduce panic and disappointment for everyone involved.

Keep track of your communications.

Enlist a cleanup crew.

If you’re planning a large-scale event like a wedding, you’ll be in contact with a lot of people, from vendors to family members.

Particularly if you’re dealing with business transactions, keep a written record of when you contact them, when they’re booked, when deposits and fees are due, and when they’re expected to show up for the big day.

Parties often end in messes; it’s fairly inevitable. Depending on how large the event is, you may want to hire people to help disassemble furniture or pickup garbage. Always be sure to check with your vendors and venue on when things need to be cleaned up and what disposal methods are at your disposal — best to avoid venue cleaning fees when possible! 

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Wedding & Reception Spaces At the Historic

Mount Baker Theatre

Unforgettable Setting for Wedding Ceremonies The Encore Room seats up to 75

SEASON SPONSOR

Iconic Lobby & Mezzanine for photos

The Walton Theatre for live music

weddings@mountbakertheatre.com Mount Baker Theatre is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the performing arts.

Thank you for making us Bellingham’s Best Live Theatre

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Shower Time WRITTEN BY LINDSEY MAJOR

Bellingham Axe

Photo by Emily Porter

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HY HAVE A small, secluded shower when you can throw one big get-together?

More and more couples are opting out of the “bridal shower” and going for a “wedding shower” instead. At a wedding shower, friends and family can celebrate the couple together, reducing the need to separate into two camps. Below is a list of gender-neutral activities sure to bring together guests from both sides of the aisle. 

Lakedale Resort

Couresty of Lakedale Resort

Axe Throwing One thing everyone involved in a wedding has in common: stress.

What better way to take your mind off the party-planning chaos than by chucking an axe at a wooden target?

Axe throwing is one of the hottest new trends in both sports and entertainment and for good reason — it feels good.

Locations are popping up all over at a rapid speed, so you’re sure to find one in your area that can accommodate your group.

Our recommendation: Bellingham Axe bellinghamaxe.com, 360.603.9606

Cake Decorating Class Several bakeries offer cake decorating classes with either a guided design or freestyle option. Bring your wedding party and conduct a mini competition to see who can come up with the best design. If you want to get really serious, serve the cakes at a larger party and have guests vote on their favorite cake.

Our recommendation:

Eureka Room

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Couresty of Eureka Room

Sweet Bellingham Bellingham, Washington sweetbellingham.com, 360.639.7933

Pounding Party After a wedding and honeymoon, couples sometimes return home short on cash, faced with the task of filling

an empty kitchen. Before the wedding, throw the couple a Pounding Party, a tradition dating back to colonial times in which guests bring the couple “a pound of this, a pound of that.” Stock the newlywed’s cupboards with flour, sugar, cleaning supplies, or whatever else they might need when the festivities settle.

Glamping Nothing unites people like the great outdoors, but not everyone wants to sleep on the ground. The solution?

Glamping. As the camping-in-comfort trend grows, more and more locations are popping up all over the world.

Invite your wedding party to experience the best nature has to offer without anyone sacrificing a good night’s sleep.

Our recommendation: Lakedale Resort Friday Harbor, Washington lakedale.com, 360.378.2350

Wine Tasting When it comes to wine, Washington has you covered. Whether you’re in Bellingham, Woodinville, Walla Walla, or anywhere between, there’s at least one winery worth your time. Rent a limo (no need to designate a driver from your party!) and hop around tasting some of the best wines the state has to offer.

Our recommendation: Hollywood District Woodinville, Washington woodinvillewinecountry.com

Escape Room Planning a wedding requires intense communication, coordination, and cooperation among lots of people.

Escape rooms — interactive rooms that require participants to solve puzzles in order to “escape” — are a great way to practice working together under pressure.

Our recommendation:

Surprise Party Do’s and Don’ts WRITTEN BY ANELYSE BOHLKE

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“

URPRISE!” THIS WORD can

evoke a lot of emotion, from shock and awe to bewilderment and embarrassment. While most commonly associated with birthday celebrations, surprise parties can have their place at any special event in life: an engagement, promotion, and anything in between. So if you’re looking to give your loved one a good surprise that they’ll never forget, check out our do’s and don’ts for putting together a shockingly great party.

Do cater the party to the person’s needs.

The best part of throwing a surprise party is surprising your honoree with a celebration all about them.This means that everything, from music to food to (most importantly) company, should reflect their tastes. If you’re not sure what they like, try recruiting the help of one of their close friends or relatives.

Don’t assume they love surprises.

For some people, there’s nothing more awkward and panic-inducing than having a room of people jump out at them when they thought they’d be enjoying a quiet night in/out. While some people love the spectacle and may have always wanted a surprise party, some people cringe at the thought — and that’s okay.

Make sure any party you throw won’t make the person you’re throwing it for uncomfortable.

Do make sure everyone knows it’s a surprise party.

This may seem like an obvious one, but many surprise parties have been foiled by blabbermouth attendees. This risk can be greatly minimized by making sure that invites include “SURPRISE” written somewhere conspicuous. If you have friends who can’t keep a secret, suggest that they keep their distance from the honoree up until the big day.

The Eureka Room

Don’t spoil the surprise.

Bellingham, Washington theeurekaroombham.com

Secret keeping is easier for some people than for others. When throwing a

surprise party, make sure you watch what you say around the person the party is for. If you need an excuse to sneak away for party prep, prepare what you’re going to say in advance and choose something believable that won’t inspire follow-up questions.

Do have a clear plan for the reveal.

Without a clear idea on how to get your honoree to the event, it’s much easier for the surprise to get blown — or for the honoree to feel like they’re being abducted. Avoid this confusion and make sure they’re completely shocked by planning in advance for the reveal, even make a backup plan if necessary.

Don’t wing it.

Party planning takes some time — that’s why it includes the word “planning.”

While some people enjoy more casual celebrations than others, having at least an idea of what people to invite, what location to have it at, and how to get the honoree to the location without arousing their suspicions, can make an event like a surprise party go much smoother.

Do get creative.

Including personal details for your honoree can make a surprise party that much more memorable. This can mean anything from personalized decor to fun group activities and one-of-a-kind party favors. Whatever you decide to do, your extra effort is sure to make your honoree feel special.

Don’t take on everything alone.

Planning any event is stressful enough without taking it on all by yourself.

Enlist all the help you can, whether that’s someone close to the honoree like their parents, siblings, partner, or best friend or a party planning expert (if you’re going for something more extravagant). 

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Little Weddings To Love

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T IS OFTEN said that a wedding day is the

“most important day of one’s life.” While that differs from person to person, there’s no doubt that getting married is a momentous occasion. While some choose to celebrate with grand ceremonies surrounded by lots of family and friends and extravagant decorations, some people opt for smaller, more intimate ceremonies.

Elopements and small weddings have become the go-to over the last few years with pandemic shutdowns and travel restrictions.

As wedding season approaches, you may find yourself wondering if eloping is right for you. To help you decide, we’ve compiled some of the area’s most beautiful small weddings and engagements from the last few years as proof that even small ceremonies can lead to lasting memories. ANELYSE BOHLKE *Elopement descriptions have been edited for length and clarity

KYLYNN & MASON

September 5, 2021 Artist Point, Mount Baker Photographer: Alicia Konga Photography Flowers: Trader Joe’s Charcuterie Board: Yeah Baby Boards “Kylynn and Mason’s elopement was nothing short of magical. We started off at 6:30 a.m. with an easy one-mile hike along a ridge covered in the most romantic fog (fog can be romantic, right?). After hiking around and taking formal portraits, we decided to head down the mountain.

We popped some champagne and enjoyed the most amazing charcuterie board from Yeah Baby Boards.

The clouds lifted and bam! We had a vast view of the mountain and wildflowers galore.

After chatting and relaxing a bit, we decided to do a leisurely hike and find the perfect spot to say vows. The day was filled with laughter, romantic, quiet moments, and gorgeous views.” ALICIA KONGA PHOTOGRAPHY

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JUNE & MICHAEL October 2021 Mount Baker Area

Photographer: Daisy Anderson of Wanderful Vows “This was a gorgeous elopement full of emotions and excitement — it was rainy and the wind was blowing the entire time. The trail was mostly empty, which gave the couple a very private and memorable day. Also, this elopement was more focused on the couple’s photos and experience. June and Michael had a reception for family members a few months later.” DAISY ANDERSON OF WANDERFUL VOWS

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MARY & ALFONSO

October 11, 2021 The Outlook Inn, Orcas Island Photographer: Satya Curcio Photography Hair & Makeup: Liberte Beauty Flowers: The Nest “Mary and Alfonso had an intimate, meaningful elopement on Orcas Island with perfect PNW fall weather. The San Juan Islands are a unique and beautiful place to elope, with no need to choose between forest, mountain or beach for your wedding day.

One of my favorite personal details that Mary and Alfonso included for their wedding day was their home on wheels! They love their van, which they adorned with another beautiful floral arrangement on the grill, also from The Nest.

We drove up Mount Constitution for their first look, one of the wedding day moments I look forward to as the excitement and anticipation builds. We then hit the beach before it was time to say ‘I do’ at a romantic A-frame chapel nestled into the woods behind Outlook Inn. The Inn’s chapel is romantic and quaint and the front surrounded by lush greenery that’s even more stunning when the rhododendrons explode in color.” SATYA CURCIO PHOTOGRAPHY May 2022 103

ELIZABETH & GABE June 28, 2020 Hotel Bellwether

Photographer: Sheila Carson Photography Decoration and Food: Hotel Bellwether “Elizabeth and Gabe were originally planning on having a bigger wedding the summer of 2020, but like many other couples, they had a big decision to make: downsize their wedding drastically, or postpone. They ended up making the choice to downsize, and in the end were so happy that they had made that decision.

COVID-19 was shutting the world down around us, but Elizabeth and Gabe were moving forward with their little big day. I wanted to be sure that we captured some of the story of COVID in a fun way, so I surprised them by making them their very own bride-and-groom masks and they loved it! It was so fun being able to tell a bit of the COVID story in a fun way.” SHEILA CARSON PHOTOGRAPHY

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XAN & HANNAH

October 12, 2020 Peace Arch Park, Blaine Photographer: Anna Joy Photography Florals: Floral Design by Maria Cake: Natalka Cakery Food: Chada Thai “One Canadian and the other American, Hannah and Xan planned a beautiful and unique day in the midst of a crazy world. They didn’t let COVID-19, rain, or even closed borders stop their day. Instead, they chose to gather their closest friends and family at Peace Arch Park, ensuring that both sides could witness their intimate wedding.

When the rains came, they embraced it and danced in the rain (literally, a true PNW moment!). It might not have been how they originally envisioned their wedding day, but they didn’t let that stop them from having a stunning and magical day!” ANNA JOY PHOTOGRAPHY

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FREE EVENT

LISTINGS Arts, Culinary, Festivals and More...

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Vendor DIRECTORY

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or all-out celebration, the right vendors can help you take a special event from dream to reality.

This comprehensive listing will connect you with vendors for every aspect of your occasion, from venues to catering, flowers, photography, and beyond. Your search begins here.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Picturesque, intimate, bucolic, and unforgettable.

Lairmont Manor is a historic manor and estate venue located in Bellingham, Washington, just up the hill from charming Fairhaven village. This architecturally stunning manor was built in 1914 and has served as a beloved event venue for over 55 years. It is our privilege to welcome guests from far and wide who have chosen this magical hidden gem to be the backdrop of their most important life celebrations. We offer private, exclusiveuse indoor and outdoor garden events throughout the year. Visit our website to learn more about our northwest history, get an overview of the estate, see the many amenities we offer and schedule a tour. We hope we will have the opportunity to share our treasured estate with you and your loved ones.

405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham 360.647.1444 lairmontmanor.com

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INC.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

irresistibly

fresh flowers

Belle Flora offers detailed botanical styling for small, intimate weddings to large upscale celebrations as well as traditional church weddings. Let us help your vision come to life with the freshest flowers and make your floral dreams come true.

A honeymoon is a time to celebrate as a couple and begin your new life together. The experienced travel agents at Bellingham Travel & Cruise can help create that special honeymoon which you will remember for the rest of your lives!

2408 Yew St, Bellingham 360.734.8454 bellinghamflowershop.com Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 10am–12pm

1801 Roeder Ave., Ste. #144 Bellingham 360.733.1270 bellinghamtravel.com

Elevate your special day with the help of Anna from Flowers & Faces. Fresh from her personal garden in LaConner, WA her elegant and detailed designs radiate a unique style with personal touch. From beautifully designed arbors to the bride’s bouquet and centerpieces Anna will capture your vision for your special day. Serving Whatcom, Skagit, and San Jaun for more than 10 years. Call or email for a consultation today.

360.466.4517, annammccall@gmail.com flowersandfaces.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

VENDOR KEY –

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Price Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Venue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hair Salon & Barber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Outdoor Space

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lodging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Florist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catering APOTHECARY SPA 419 Commercial Ave. Anacortes 320 E. Fairhaven Ave. Burlington 360.299.2112, theapothecaryspa.com

Sueño Bridal is in the business of giving you the personal touch in your quest of finding the perfect dress! We carry a large variety of NEW in-stock dresses for all events. For Bridal we carry several brands that will fit every budget and ensure you look beautiful.

305 Telegraph Rd, Bellingham 360.392.0752 suenobridal.com

The award-winning Apothecary Spa is a relaxing retreat. Come for a special day or sign up for our monthly membership program. Amenities include a sauna, soft robes, and a relaxing sanctuary. The spa team encourages self-care by building services based on your individual needs and educating guests to provide a complete wellness experience.

HOPE ISLAND BEACH CLUB 16846 Chilberg Ave. #A, LaConner hopeislandbeachclub.com Situated on Snee-Oosh Point overlooking Skagit Bay, our scenic venue is tucked away from the world just three miles west of LaConner, WA. LaConner’s new seaside wedding and event destination overlooking Hope, Whidbey and Kiket Islands.150 Guest Capacity. Food Service Kitchen and Reception Room. Sheltered Long House BBQ.

LAIRMONT MANOR 405 Fieldston Rd., Bellingham 360.647.1444, lairmontmanor.com Celebrate your special day at the unforgettable Lairmont Manor.

Welcoming guests from far and wide our stunning 1914 architecture serves as the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved historic estate venue. For life’s most important celebrations this hidden gem offers private, exclusive indoor and outdoor garden events throughout the year. Visit our website to schedule a tour with us. We’d love the opportunity to share our treasured estate with you and your loved ones.

MIDTOWN BARBER 1504 Iowa St., Bellingham 360.595.7556, midtownbarber.booksy.com

Astraea Bridal is an upscale consignment and samples boutique with sustainability and inclusivity as top priorities. Proudly offering an assortment of over 200 gowns ranging in size 0–28 and price of $400– $4,000, in the heart of Downtown Mount Vernon.

By appointment only.

324 S 1st St., Mount Vernon 360.708.7757 astraeabridal.com

Wedding or Event coming up? Get your hair and facial hair looking crisp with nice edges! Visit Midtown Barber on Booksy or call/txt for an appointment. Located INSIDE Fitness Evolution on Iowa St.

MOUNT BAKER THEATRE 104 North Commercial St., Bellingham 360.398.6058, weddings@mountbakertheatre.com Mount Baker Theatre is a nationally registered historic place and the crown jewel of the Bellingham Arts District. Featuring 1920’s Spanish-Moorish décor and antique interiors, this venue offers an elegant and charming setting for your special celebration. From the stunning Main Theatre to a smaller, intimate gathering, we have the perfect wedding packing for you.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CRAVE Cater ng Glowing chandeliers, hardwood floors, a romantic balcony, and sandstone fireplace create unique ambiance. 5,000 sq. ft. allows you to have your wedding and reception in one place. Your day will be remembered in this beautiful indoor venue.

1300 Broadway St., Bellingham 360.733.1560 broadwayhall.com

If you are looking for chef inspired food and beverage, with quality presentation, think Crave Catering! Consider us for your intimate to large scale celebrations, benchmark occasions, corporate and non-profit functions. Our staff is professional and the food is amazing!

360.223.4900, cravecatering.net donna@cravecatering.net

We have taken rigorous steps to ensure the health and safety of our guests, so you can enjoy your event with peace of mind. We have over 16,000 sq. ft. of event space to accommodate groups small and large. Full on-site catering and banquet services with complimentary décor available. Hotel with well-appointed deluxe rooms and suites, including an indoor pool. Fun and exciting casino with over 670 slots, always the newest games.

Call our Sales & Catering Team for more information: 360-724-0154 or email sales@theskagit.com

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your home for special events

Baker Creek Place is perfect for all events with a price for any budget. Our 3000 square foot banquet hall overlooks beautiful wooded surroundings. Offering seating for 15 to 200, our event space and wedding venue boasts an outdoor patio and a catering kitchen.

1650 Baker Creek Place Bellingham 360.671.4247, biawc.com

H O P E

I S L A N D

B E A C H

C L U B

Let me help you find your first home as newlyweds!

With 20 years of experience selling in the area, I have the knowledge for today’s fast-paced market and I take pride in doing my research, ensuring you have the best options available to you while making the experience fun and stress free!

Megan A. Barnes 515 W. Bakerview Rd. Bellingham 206.383.4407 meganbarnes@windermere.com

Situated on Snee-Oosh Point overlooking Skagit Bay, our scenic venue is tucked away from the world just three miles west of LaConner, WA. LaConner’s new seaside wedding and event destination overlooking Hope, Whidbey and Kiket Islands. 150 Guest Capacity. Food Service Kitchen and Reception Room. Sheltered Long House BBQ.

16846 Chilberg Ave. #A, LaConner hopeislandbeachclub.com, hopeislandbeachclub@gmail.com

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Notes

Lasting Image

Kylynn & Mason | Photo by Alicia Konga Photography

In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours.

In all the world, there is no love for you like mine.

MAYA ANGELOU

North Sound photographers, we want to see what you’ve got. We’re looking for locally generated photographs for our Lasting Image feature. We’re seeking local nature photographs — ones that freeze a moment, tell a story, evoke an emotion.

We’ll run your photo, along with your name, where you’re from, where the photo was shot, and a short 40-word write-up about the photo (inspiration for it, how you got it, meaning behind it, etc.). The photo must be high resolution (300 dpi) with no watermarks. Send to dean@bellinghamalive.com. Then sit back and enjoy the view.

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Dine LocaL With Us! Our beef is sourced locally from the Columbia Basin.

It delivers fresher, richer, and more consistent flavor.

A superior dining Xperience begins long before the food reaches your table!

Make a reservation today!

Call 360.474.9740 or visit our website

C A S I N O

R E S O R T

First Fed Welcomes Chris Neros as Our New Chief Lending Officer | EVP Christopher “Chris” Neros has joined First Fed as Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer.

“Chris is a well-respected leader with a successful track record of business development, relationship management, and team leadership. He will bring valuable experience and strategic direction to our lending initiatives,” said Matt Deines, President and CEO of First Fed Bank and FNWB. “First Fed is on an exciting growth trajectory, anchored by a 100-year legacy of outstanding service. I look forward to strengthening our business relationships by collaborating with our team, our partners, and our customers on business opportunities,” said Neros.

Chris Neros

Chief Lending Officer | EVP chris.neros@ourfirstfed.com • Respected leader focused on building successful relationships and driving growth • 26 years of professional and executive experience in banking • Home base: Bellingham, WA

ourfirstfed.com | 800.800.1577

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

Prior to joining First Fed, Neros held leadership roles for over 15 years at Peoples Bank in Bellingham, WA. As Chief Lending Officer at Peoples, Neros oversaw bank-wide lending strategy of all commercial and marine lending activities. He was formerly a member of the loan committee for Northwest Business Development Association and a volunteer Kenpo instructor.

Prior to moving to Washington, Neros gained 10 years of lending and retail banking experience at First National Bank Alaska. While in Sitka, he was active in the community as a Board Member for the Sitka Economic Development Association, Center for Community, and Sitka Tribal Enterprises.

Neros earned a BBA in Marketing from the University of Alaska Anchorage, an MBA from Regis University in Colorado, and is a graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School.