The Mint Experience Westman November 2021

Princess Dental Sit back and relax

Mint’s Must Have Holiday Guide Holiday Recipies with Manitoba Egg Farmers

The Mint Experience Westman VOL 5 ISS 5 Nov 2021

GIVE THE GIFT of CLEAN!

We all know someone who can use a helping hand with their household chores. That’s what makes a Home Cleaning gift card such a valuable item! Nikki’s Cleaning Gift Cards make the perfect gift for family, friends, co-workers and employees.

WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND SEND OUR THANKS FOR A YEAR OF SUPPORT.

As a locally owned cleaning company, our clients are more than just numbers and houses. We are proud to serve the community we call home and are honored to be welcomed into your homes.

NIKKI & JORDAN

Nikki’s Cleaning 399 Park Ave. East Unit A1 Brandon, MB 204-441-5676 info@nikkiscleaning.ca www.nikkiscleaning.ca

THE JOY

of a Chocolate Peppermint Cake

We loved this creation for the decadent layers of chocolate, the unique addition of peppermint to the chocolate icing – and our favourite detail – the imperial letter cookies. What a JOY for a holiday treat with our favourite ingredients EGGS!

Contest

Winner CONGRATULATION TO THE WINNER IG @shellyinthe204 – the creator and Winner of the #eggsforholidayMINT contest.

Visit @mintmarketingexperience on Instagram for all the prize details.

FIRST WORD From Editor in Chief

JAMIE WILLEY

Volume 5 Issue 5, November 2021 Publisher Mint Marketing Experience Inc.

Editor Jamie Willey

Graphic Designer Ghislaine Moffitt

Writer Lisa Cress

n this issue, we feature some amazingly creative businesses that I have had the pleasure to get to know and work with and I am excited to share them all with you.

I

Our cover feature, Princess Dental shows us how they take dentistry to a whole new level of comfort and ease. Gone are the dreadful, painful trips to the dentist. Read all about their new technology and sedation options. After being a part of the Brandon community for many years, they are so excited to share a new location with everyone!

Cooking is one of our favorite pastimes, and this issue we have partnered up with Manitoba Egg Farmers and have learned so much about our local farmers that supply our grocery stores with this delicious and versatile food. We can’t wait for you to try out these recipes for your very own family gatherings.

This is our 5th issue featuring our Mint Must Have Local Holiday Shopping Guide! Feeling stressed about the holidays?

Local ideas to shop for family, friends and everyone on your naughty or nice list. Supporting local businesses helps out our communities, families and so much more. Shop local is no longer just a trend, but a way of life.

The end of another year brings on feelings of gratitude and reflection. This marks the 5th year of The Mint Experience, and I as look back on the years of stories and experiences we have been a part of, we are so very grateful for the support and encouragement. Wishing you much joy, peace and abundance this holiday season and into the new year.

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Contributing Writers Shelby Wood Kim Raaikamakers Michael van Lierop Regan Bueti Stephanie Baranowski

Cover Photo Studio 78

PRINT ADVERTISING & DIGITAL MARKETING INQUIRIES hello@mintmarketingexperience.ca FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES Jamie Willey jamie@mintmarketingexperience.ca 204-721-1296 mintmarketingexperience.ca The Mint Experience is published by Mint Marketing Experience Inc. The Mint Experience Westman is published 6 times per calendar year. Articles and art may not be reprinted without written permission from the Publisher. The Mint Marketing Experience Inc assumes no responsibility to return any unsolicited editorial or graphic material. The Mint Marketing Experience Inc. considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible, although reporting inaccuracies can occur; consequently readers using this information should do so at their own risk.

Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 29 10th Street Unit J Brandon, MB R7A 4E4

CONTENTS 8 24 38 48

IN THIS ISSUE 8

Fashion & Beauty

16

Wellness

24

Eats & Drinks

34

House & Home

44

Local Culture

FEATURES 24

Holiday Recipes

38

Cover Story: Princess Dental

48

Mint's Must Have Holiday Guide

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CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

JAMIE WILLEY Born and raised in Manitoba, Jamie comes from a long line of entrepreneurs.

Owner of Studio 78, and Editor in Chief of The Mint Experience, Jamie has a soft spot for the fearless business community. Combining her creative photography talents with her business roots, she is proudly bringing stories and inspiration with Manitoba’s best magazine. Jamie also combines her print marketing skills to the digital marketing platforms, and along with her team The Mint Marketing Experience collaborates with businesses country-wide.

Jamie has a love for cooking, and of course delicious wines.

REGAN BUETI Regan comes from a long line of Entrepreneurs and has always known she would run her own business one day, but didn’t know in what form.

After graduating from Fashion School in LA, she went home to Winnipeg and worked as a clothing designer for 7 years, before combining her two dreams into one, and Style Bar came to life in 2013. She strives to make everyone feel welcome, and beautiful when they step into Style Bar and she wants you to feel like you’re shopping in your best friends closet. She hopes to show her daughter Emilia how hard work and determination can make all your dreams come true.

STEPHANIE BARANOWSKI How can Diamond Lotus help you? Stefanie Baranowski is the CEO and Founder of Diamond Lotus. She lives eats and breathes health and wellness.

With a live to learn spirit that she shares with intentional thoughts and kindness through her corporate wellness services. She has been in the health and wellness field for 20 years with experience, education and knowledge in various areas of health and wellness.

Diamond Lotus works at helping you incorporate your definition of wellness into your daily routines, your workplace, and into your transformative self.

LISA CRESS Lisa Cress is an advertising specialist, writer and wannabe fantasy author living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She started her freelance career under the name Slay it in Writing in 2019 and has had the opportunity to write and create for a variety of publications and companies. Her expertise is in connecting businesses to their audiences with copy and creative that engages, entertains and inspires. Get in touch with her at slayitwithlisa@gmail.com.

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SHELBY WOOD Shelby absolutely has a deep appreciation for food, and is working on putting together a cookbook, which is a real passion project for her. Since her Dad passed pretty horrifically 3 years ago she found herself searching for understanding and mainly ways to work through trauma and grief. For Shelby, food it is not only nourishment, but a real form of love, bringing people together in a special way.

Especially right now with what is going on in our world, it can connect us from right inside our homes. The kitchen is the heart, it’s where the tunes get turned up!

“Probably embarrassingly, if you could be a fly on the wall, as I sing into my kitchen utensil, and sassily dance like I’m Beyonce, but hey, that’s the joy!” says Shelby

MICHAEL VAN LIEROP Michael van Lierop is President & Founder of New Outlook Wealth, a Manitoba-based wealth & advisory firm that brings financial planning and low investment management fees to all Canadians, regardless of their wallet size. Visit their website at www.newoutlook.ca to learn more and to find an advisor!

KIM RAAIJMAKERS Kim Raaijmakers is a mom of two, a business professional of 20+ years and personal development junkie turned transformation coach. Kim is helping women leaders create their best lives, by creating clarity of their vision, developing undeniable belief and discovering strategies that make success inevitable. What began as a personal journey, she has turned into a mission to help women experience the same freedom. When you’re ready for your best life, reach out for a conversation at info@kimraaijmakers.com or check out kimraaijmakers.com

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FASHION

Styles

to heat up your Winter

BY STYLE BAR PHOTOS BY JAMIE MAE PHOTOGRAPHY

After 18 months of dressing down, its time to grab your skirts and dresses and get ready to celebrate the new year coming!

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Colour is hot this season. A pop of rust or bold pink is the perfect way to step up your wardrobe.

Satin is here to stay, satin blouse, pants and of course dresses are the fabric of the season! Check out our new addition of Curve styling!

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Shackets are all the rage this year. Classic Solids, Bold Plaids and Navaho prints just a start of this versatile trend!

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2

3

4

1 - Colourblocking and wide sleeves are a trend we can get behind, especially with a blend of classy neutrals.

2 - Add texture to your wardrobe with Waffle Knits, Cable Knits and Chenilles.

Stay warm, while staying cute!

3 - Bold colours, mixed with prints is a unexpected way to

4 - Cozy sets are back for the holiday season. These are the perfect way to had to your athlesuire attire.

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Hairistocracy

Built on a legacy of family

BY HEATHER CLUNIE KARROUZE PHOTOS BY JESS MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

When Mo Karrouze was attending the London College of Fashion in the 1960’s, studying for a career that would take him to working with Vidal Sassoon in his Bond Street salon, he could not have dreamed that his journey would bring him to Brandon, Manitoba to raise a family and launch a business that is thriving 30 years later. Karrouze left the bright lights and followed his heart to the prairies with his wife, Heather, a Manitoba

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farm girl and alumna of Brandon University. Expecting their first child, they began to build a life here, starting both a business and a family in 1991. Over the years, the salon, originally called Hair Artistry by Karrouze before its move to its permanent Princess Avenue location, became known for excellent work, quality products and outstanding service. Perhaps just as importantly, it became known as a family business that

Faced with yet another Covid shutdown in November 2020, Meaghan and Jenna, along with their mum, turned their time of closure and of grief to rebranding and redecorating the salon. They worked tirelessly, earning many a blister, always keeping their dad’s vision in sight. Aligned with Hairistocracy’s commitment to caring for the environment and providing the very best for their clientele, a new product line which is unique to their Brandon salon, R & Co, found its way onto the shelves.

When the salon re-opened in January of this year, it was with a new look and a new product line; Mo would have been “busting his buttons.”

JENNA KARROUZE ELMES, MEAGHAN KARROUZE AND AMIE KARROUZE

provided its clientele with “an experience” as well as an awesome cut and colour! To sit in Mo’s chair meant a great visit with a good friend, whether that meant chatting about world issues or doing a crossword with one of his favourite “regulars.” As the Karrouze family grew, so did the staff. Mo proudly worked along-side 2 of his daughters, Meaghan Karrouze and Jenna Elmes, both of whom share his talent and passion for the art of beauty.

Sadly, in 2016, Mo was diagnosed with the cancer which would, ultimately, claim his life in September of 2020.

Despite his illness, Mo continued behind the chair until his last summer.

This fall, a year after Mo’s passing, the Karrouze women have realized a long held dream of expanding the family business and creating a spa under the same roof at 2103 Princess.

Aesthetician Rohan Parisien and Registered Massage Therapist Kristen Dubnick are joined by Amie Karrouze, who is currently studying to become a Medical Aesthetician. The new spa is a light and beautiful space which features a gorgeous pedicure station boasting luxurious farmhouse sinks. The product shelves are filled with all Canadian skin care by Lifance who promises “clean concentrated formulas overflowing with the most potent and powerful, botanical ingredients from land and sea.”

Whether your visit is to the salon, where you will be warmly welcomed

by Meaghan, Jenna or their colleagues Sarah Rankin and Lily Korbet, or spa side for a few hours of peaceful pampering, you may be sure of experiencing prairie hospitality, excellent service and world class products for your hair and skin which are carried in Brandon, only by Hairistocracy Salon & Spa. We look forward to welcoming you!

Hairistocracy 2103 Princess Ave Brandon MB 204-728-4800 www.hairistocracysalonandspa.com

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BEAUTY TIPS TO LOOK YOUR BEST FOR THE HOLIDAYS

We are falling in love again with get-togethers— the family kind and the romantic kind. We all want to look our best and here are our tips to look and feel your best all season long!

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SKIN CARE FOR YOUR FACE EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin. It can be beneficial for removing dry or dull skin, increases blood circulation and brightens your skin’s appearance.

It’s important to be gentle on your skin.

To exfoliate your face with a scrub, apply gently to the skin with a finger. Rub in small, circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water.

APPLY A MASK A facial mask is a great complement to exfoliation. For best results, use a mask once a week, on average, after you’ve exfoliated.

Simply spread the mask evenly over your face, leave on for about 10 minutes, then rinse well. There are several different types of masks—moisturizing, purifying, tightening, etc. Again, talk to your cosmetician, who will be able to recommend the best product for your skin type.

MOISTURIZE DEEPLY Keeping moisture in your skin is a crucial step in your daily skin care routine!

Moisturizers work to retain the skin’s moisture on the surface of the skin by preventing it from evaporating. And you’ll love the results: soft, supple, glowing skin.

Adopt day and night moisturizers for even better results. To prevent flaky, scaly skin, you might choose products that also include antioxidants or alpha hydroxy acid.

MAKEUP BRIGHTEN YOUR COMPLEXION Apply foundation to even out your skin tone. Next, use a concealer to cover dark circles and blemishes. Then, apply loose face powder in light strokes using a large brush. This will mattify the skin and fix the foundation. Finally, apply blush, starting on the cheekbones and blending up towards the top of the ear. Instant glow!

LIGHT UP YOUR EYES Eyes shadows can create a glamorous or natural look. Apply only on the eyelid using

a brush. Using eyeliner, trace the contour of your top (and bottom, why not?) lashes for a more sensual expression. Finally, apply mascara to add intensity. Remember to always start at the base of the lashes for a more spectacular effect.

HIGHLIGHT YOUR LIPS Give your lips the holiday treatment with a brilliant, ultra-chic red. Stay away from darker shades that can make your mouth look smaller and more severe as well as accentuating the lines around your mouth.

The key word for lips is colour. After all, it’s the holidays and, this year, it’s all about vibrant shades. For a finishing touch, trace your lips with a pencil the same shade as your lipstick. And smile!

HAIR CARE WASH CONSISTENTLY Beautiful hair doesn’t require daily washing.

Depending on your type of hair and your needs, you can shampoo every couple of days, or once a week. Choose a shampoo and conditioner for your hair’s specific type (coloured, dry, oily, etc.). Keep your hair hydrated and protected against damaging elements like the sun, pollution, etc. A great conditioner works to smooth tangles and close hair cuticles, keeping your hair soft and shiny

MASKS ARE NOT JUST FOR YOUR FACE A hair mask can work miracles for your hair, adding body, brilliance and a silky feel.

Replenishing and nourishing, hair masks are recommended two or three times a year depending on the health of your hair. Apply to freshly washed and towel-dried hair. Leave the mask on for the recommended time and rinse thoroughly to eliminate any excess residue that could dull the lustre.

LET’S BE GENTLE Did you know that hair is more fragile when it is wet? Avoid rubbing it too hard or for too long with a towel, just squeeze water out gently, using a towel to absorb the moisture.

If you use a dryer, try holding it slightly away from your head. If you have several settings on your dryer, set to warm rather than hot.

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WELLNESS

ARE YOU THE DRIVER OR THE PASSENGER IN YOUR LIFE?

BY KIM RAAIJMAKERS

Does life happen TO you or FOR you?

This may sound like a weird question because life just happens, right?

Wrong!

There are two ways to live and experience life.

1. Living in the effect of your life (the TO), or 2. You are being the cause of your life (the FOR).

Do you look and bemoan the circumstances of your life, frustrated by what you’re experiencing, complaining about what your life is like right now? Or you may be thinking “I’m not complaining, so this isn’t me?”. Let me ask: Are you thinking it is fine, things are good just the way they are?

So what does it look like if you’re living as you being the cause of your life? You are driving what your life looks like. You may ask, what about when hard circumstances 16

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come up? Bad things happen, do you deserve what happened then, because how can bad things happen for you?

Yes things happen, situations come up AND you determine how you respond, you make changes and you CHOOSE how this will take you closer to designing your life in the greatest possible way? As an example, look at Michael J. Fox, who has taken his Parkinson’s disease diagnoses and made it his life purpose to help millions of others in the same condition. He chose to respond and create a gift out of what happened and make it work for him.

So let me ask again.

Does life happen to you or for you? Are you a passenger in your life or are you in the driver’s seat?

you. This may not be right now, it may be a gift in a month, a year or further down

Moving into the driver’s seat can be done in small steps.

4. Choose the response that you want to have.

1. When you find yourself in a negative emotion (for example, anger, irritation or frustration) this is your signal that you are in the passenger seat.

By doing these simple steps each time, you begin training your brain for the response that you would want first, and you will find it gets easier and easier.

Your brain is a muscle and as such you can exercise it and train it to bring you the result that you want.

2. Take a few deep breathes and then ask yourself how would you like to respond to this situation?

3. Ask yourself how could you use this situation that has come up and turn it into a gift? Aim to come up with at least 3 ways that what is happen could be a gift for

So…..

Are you ready to CHOOSE?

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A Wonderful Wellness Holiday Life

BY STEFANIE BARANOWSKI, DIAMOND LOTUS YOGA I always get mixed feelings about the Holiday season every year. Holiday time, that’s where you can find the warmth in winter and not just with your snow gear. Decorative lights are hung around the city and in homes both inside and outside in all Holiday cultural contexts. While I do love seeing the beauty of the fresh fluffy snow on the ground and the magical feeling of warmth from my Holiday movie favourites, I also know that the Holiday season can bring on some stresses leaving you feeling less like yourself. Every weekend there seems to be a Holiday party or get-together to attend, an outdoor activity to take part in or some Holiday shopping for your family, friends and co-workers. You can be sure to be stuck in traffic a little longer but of course with the comfort of holiday music on the radio. The Holiday season is honourably full of giving; to give gifts, energy and time, but we sometimes forget to give to ourselves. You can’t pour from an empty cup just like you can’t give to others what you don’t give to yourself.

What is Holiday Wellness and how can it benefit you? I’ve taken the typical Holiday stressors that are experienced and created a wellness twist to inspire the cultivation of new traditions that create a Holiday wave of wellness to carry over into the New Year.

1. TAKE TIME FOR YOU At night when I’m by myself, I’ll sit with my electric gas fire place on, a cup of hot tea or coco and a good book to read. As your schedule fills up with more work hours, more Holiday gatherings, shopping and Holiday fun, it’s important to schedule in some you time into your calendar.

Actively schedule time into your scheduler for time to relax;

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“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings” – It’s a Wonderful Life (1947)

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maybe it’s going to a yoga class, taking a hot bath at the end of a long day with a glass of wine or maybe its sitting with a good book and tea, whatever is your favourite way to take time for you to relax and connect with you is important to stay mentally and emotionally grounded.

Don’t be shy and definitely don’t feel guilty to add in a time slot for self-care. In the yoga community there is a saying that goes around, ‘don’t have 10 minutes? that means you need to take 20 minutes’. You can only give to others what you give to yourself.

2. MINDFUL EATING What is mindful eating? Mindful eating encompasses paying attention to what you are eating and how much you are eating coinciding with how you are feeling physically and mentally. The Holiday season is the season of sugar. The smell of baking is in the air everywhere; peanut butter marshmallow squares, sugar cookies, gingerbread houses, candy canes, and my personal favourite, Starbucks’ chestnut praline latte. There is an emotional stimulation to eating these tasty sugary sweets and the feeling is usually one that is joyful, pleasant, satisfying followed by “oh I probably shouldn’t have ate that” either said out loud or in your mind but you justify it because its tradition. Mindful eating is a practice of being present and making choices that are in alignment with your personal goals. Instead of reaching for grandma’s secret shortbread recipe, opting for a new age healthy recipe is a great way to break sugary tradition and bring mindfulness eating not just into your life but into your friends and family life.

3. FIND TIME TO BE ACTIVE By the time I get home from those Holiday commitments, the last thing I want to think about is hitting the gym.

It can be challenging to want to find the energy to stay on track with your fitness goals on a regular week never mind the Holidays. Building that intrinsic motivation is key towards staying on track with your physical wellbeing. My go to is always yoga as its an activity I’m passionate about and it’s a great way to take care of not just the body but also the mind. With many different lineages of yoga to choose from, you can either take the more relaxed and flexibility focused in a yin or restorative practice or the strength based and cardio based practice of ashtanga or a vinyasa practice. Yoga has many benefits for the body but also to help clear the mind which is especially beneficial for managing stress. Taking that one hour class to focus in on yourself with no distractions is a great way to stay mindfully grounded throughout the busyness of the Holidays and stay physically active.

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4. CULTIVATE A SENSE OF GRATITUDE Feeling a little less ‘Whoville’ energy and more ‘Grinch’ energy? Taking time to focus on the things you are grateful for will help with creating a positive mindset.

When you mindfully and actively put your focus on the things you are grateful for, you might start to notice that life around you becomes more pleasant and positive.

It’s all about seeing the silver lining or the blessings in the situations that don’t go your way and being open to seeing and witnessing the kindness in others.

5. LET IT GO I know when I make time for family and friend gatherings, I am bound to run into someone I don’t resonate with. Whether it’s not being on the same page politically or maybe there was a situation that caused some ill feelings; to dwell on those ill feelings or hold grudges just hurts you in the end. When you let go of these things and respond with kindness, you emulate that energy outwards which allows space for connection. Isn’t that what we all want as human beings is that connection and that feeling of belonging?

6. REFLECTING AND SETTING NEW GOALS Why wait until January 1st to roll around to make those New Years resolutions? I start my

new goal setting for the New Year nice and early in December. Setting time aside before the New Year rolls around gives you time to sit back and reflect on the past year and be able to effectively goal set with intention and an action plan. Take time to reflect in a journal or with a friend and then take your goal setting to the next level. My personal favourite way to goal set is to write my goals out on a nice big white board and do a crafty vision boarding session with my aunt that has us both caught in meaningful conversation with laughs and tears.

The Holiday season comes once a year and there is something magical about the decor, the lights, the feeling of love and connection that warms my heart. No matter what culture or religion you connect with and traditions you celebrate with, at the centre of it all is the intention of love and connection that truly brings the Holiday season to its brightest light and its coziest warmth. It reminds me that it truly is a ‘Wonderful Life’.

“Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings” – It’s a Wonderful Life (1947).

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DR. MINTENKO

This holiday season, we would like to thank you for all of your support in the past years, for your encouragement with the process of the name change – we appreciate your trust to our business.

May your homes be filled with laughter and love, family and friends this season and we wish you a prosperous year in 2022!

DR. MINTENKO

Getting Started with Mint Orthodontics INDIVIDUALIZED CONSULTATION Your initial consultation will give you the opportunity to meet the team, learn more about orthodontics, receive a complete initial exam, and find out which treatment options will best meet your needs. During your consultation, we will: •

Review your dental and medical history forms

•

Provide a complete oral exam, including X-rays, to determine whether treatment is necessary

•

Help you create a customized treatment plan

•

Discuss all financial information, insurance options, and payment plans

Our team will be glad to answer any questions, and we will provide you with all of the information that you need to determine which treatment is right for you. Please contact our office to schedule your initial consultation.

FIRST VISIT Our greatest goal is to give you the healthy, straight, beautiful smile that you have always wanted. Our team

will work with you every step of the way to make sure that your orthodontic care is as rewarding as possible.

We use the latest technology, offering a variety of safe and modern treatment options that give the customized, individual care you deserve.

Visit our website or call to book your free consultation.

Mint Orthodontics 1711 Kirkcaldy Drive Brandon, MB 1-204-727-0401 Info@mintorthodontics.ca www.mintorthodontics.ca

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EATS & DRINKS

It’s

THE MOST WONDERFUL

time of the year!

BY SHELBY WOOD PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

As temperatures get colder and the snow falls, the sun dances on each flake and festive music seems to fill our ears with all the holiday cheer. Whether we are out enjoying nature’s own tinsel as it drapes the trees looking down at our footprints left in the snow or soaking up time with the people we adore most curled up in our homes, we feel thankful and within that, food is always near, filling our bellies with even more joy. It is what connects us all.

I don’t know about you, but even though it’s just my husband and I, we always have a family size pack of eggs on hand at all times. Whether it’s the star of the show or the added extra touch needed to make your meal come to life, eggs are woven into what we eat on the regular. They not only nourish us, but are delicious! Have you ever thought about where these little gifts come from… in our own province by incredible families within all of Manitoba and are being stocked right in our grocery stores.

These recipes feature eggs, eggs and more eggs because well, why would they not, as they are truly egg-cellent!

They make me think of appreciating time with our loved ones… putting out cookies for Santa the night before with your little ones or just for you to grab and enjoy something sweet ; ) Waking up Christmas morning as the coffee is brewing and you are wanting a fantastic breakfast that is simple and yet may just have your family or friends say WOW... and after all the merriment we are left with leftovers, that we sometimes have no idea what to do with and want to transform into something new. I hope these recipes you will try this winter season and are ones you will love just as much as I do. xox. Shelby 24

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Breakfast Lasagna Cooktime: 1.5 hours on 365 °F or until potatoes are fork tender

Ingredients: 5 eggs 4 strips cooked Bacon or 4 Breakfast sausage 3-4 medium potatoes 1 Can Mushroom Soup 2 Sprigs Green Onion Quarter of a Green pepper Cheddar or Marble cheese

Directions: • In a bowl scramble 5 eggs with salt and pepper. Grate desired cheese (approximately ½ cup) and add to egg mixture.

• Peel and thinly slice potatoes like you would for scalloped potatoes.

• In a 9x9 dish, start with swiping a spoon full of mushroom soup on bottom of the dish and 2 tbsp water.

Then add a layer of potatoes.

• Chop up your green pepper and green onion as well as your meat of choice.

• Add some of the egg mixture and then add pepper, onion and meat then another layer of potatoes, spread of mushroom soup and repeat. You want there to be enough egg mixture to cover the top layer slightly and be able to have the eggs, peppers, onion and meat be your top layer.

Finish with more grated cheese.

• Cover with tinfoil and she’s ready for the oven. Cook for 1.5 hours on 365 °F or until potatoes are fork tender.

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Makes 1 single pie

Leftover Turkey or Ham pot pie My quick and “lighter” pie crust | Cook time: 1 hour on 365 °F

Ingredients: ⅓ cup cold Tenderflake shortening 1 ¼ cup All purpose flour ½ tsp salt 1 egg 1 tbsp Vinegar 4-5 tbsp Water

Directions: • In a bowl mix flour and salt while you cut in shortening.

1 tsp sage 1 tsp thyme 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper 2 tsp minced garlic

Directions: • Boil potatoes and carrots for approximately 30 minutes on medium heat in a large saucepan.

• With a fork smash together until crumbly consistency.

• Drain and then add in 1 small onion diced and your chopped up meat.

• Whisk egg in a small bowl. Set aside some in another small bowl for egg wash later for your crust.

• Add in broccoli soup.

• Mix in your vinegar and water. Gradually add in the egg, vinegar and water mixture.

• Working it together with a fork and then your hand until a ball forms.

• Wrap in cellophane and put in the refrigerator for at least ½ hour to chill before rolling out to make your crust.

Pie filling: Ingredients: 1 cup Leftover Turkey or Ham, cut in 1” chunks 2 cans cream of broccoli soup 3 large carrots diced 2 celery stalks diced 1 small onion diced 26

4 medium potatoes cut in small chunks

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• Add all spices and mix together.

• Set aside as you will then take out your pie dough and roll out.

• Once rolled out to about ⅓ inch thickness. Lay it over your pie plate and press down flat while any extra dough hanging over the sides are to cut as you will then gather to make into another ball to roll out for your top crust.

• Take your filling you have set aside and scoop into your dish.

• Cover your filling with the rolled-out dough.

Take a fork and press sides around the whole pie.

With your fork, poke some holes in the middle.

• Put in oven on 365 °F and cook for 1 hour. The last 5 minutes take out and add leftover egg wash with a brush to the top of your crust to get that beautiful golden yummy crust.

Cherry Pistachio Hermit Cookies – by Manitoba Egg Farmers & Shelby Wood

Ingredients:

Directions:

¾ cup butter softened

• Preheat oven to 350. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

¾ cup shortening

• In a large bowl beat together butter, eggs, shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.

2 cups brown sugar 3 eggs 2 tsp vanilla 2 cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup whole wheat flour 1 ½ tsp baking powder ¾ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp nutmeg 1 cup dried cherries

• In another bowl mix flours, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix dry ingredients into the butter mixture until combined. Fold in cherries, currants, and pistachios.

• Drop dough by tablespoonfuls, about 2 inches apart onto baking sheets.

• Bake for about 20 minutes or until bottoms are golden brown and centers of cookies are still a bit soft, about 10 – 15 minutes.

• Let cool on pans for 5 minutes and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Sponsored by Manitoba Egg Farmers

1 cup currants 1 cup pistachios

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CRACK ‘EM OPEN ANYTIME

A holiday worthy

Cardamom & Gin Fizz Ingredients 3 oz Cardamom Infused Gin ½ cup Grapefruit Juice 2 oz Rosemary Simple Syrop Prosecco, chilled Ice Cardamom Infused Gin •

Gin – we Love Bombay Dry or Beefeater

•

8 Cardamom Pods

Combine Gin and Cardamom pods in a jar, and let sit for 24 hours, until the gin has the fabulous aroma of cardamom. Strain out the pods and your Cardamom Infused Gin is ready to go!

Rosemary Simple Syrop •

1 cup sugar

•

1 cup water

•

2 Rosemary Sprigs

In a pot, dissolve sugar in water. Once dissolved, simmer a couple Rosemary sprigs for about 20 minutes. Strain out the rosemary sprigs, and you have a delicious wintery simple syrop.

To make the Gin Fizz Once your infusions are made, you are ready to make the yummiest Gin Fizz!

•

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice

•

Pour in grapefruit juice, gin and simple syrop.

•

Shake for about 30 seconds. A traditional gin fizz is frothy, lots of shaking will achieve the results.

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Strain into a cocktail glass with fresh ice.

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Top with a splash – or two - of Prosecco and serve.

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Cook Off

Sponsored by Sobeys West End

Creamy cheesecakes, decadent pies, moist cakes and mouthwatering cookies are among some of the best holiday dessert recipes. What happens when we bring together some of Brandon’s best restaurants and throw in a mix of ingredients to challenge them – such as Canoe Cut Marrow Bones – and watch the magic happen.

CONTEST DETAILS: Contestants were presented with a selected basket of ingredients prior to cook off. They were to use all of these ingredients to create their own unique dish that followed the selected theme. This final theme is HOLIDAY DESSERTS. Contestants had the creative freedom to add any spices or additional ingredients as needed to complete their dish.

Final dishes were presented to our Judges – Shaun Camberon and Wayne Balcan and were graded on the use of ingredients, taste, presentation and finally creativity.

Judge: Shaun Camberon

Ingredients Cream Cheese Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate Pears Lemon Rosemary Dulce Leche Caramel Sauce Cranberries Canoe Cut Marrow Bones Puff Pastry

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Judge: Wayne Balcan

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Sabor Latino Creation

Judge review Sabor Latino gamely stepped up with a welcome nod to Latin culture. They presented a cranberry pocket infused with dulce de leche. All of the ingredients were used and the overall impression was very pleasant. As with the other entries, this could be easily found on their regular menu.

Score 90/100

Joe Beaverz Creation

Judge review Joe Beeverz provided strong competition with a delightful entry. Puff pastry cheerfully covered in a whipped mousse toping.

The pear layer elevated it to another level. The cranberry compote, paired with the puff pastry and mousse made for a pleasant dessert that successfully utilized all the ingredients provided.

Would have liked to be able to taste more of the canoe marrow.

Score 93/100

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Chez Angela Café & Bakery Creation

Judge Review Chez Angela presented a delightful dessert that was both light and satisfying with notes of lemon and chocolate. The use of the canoe bone marrow infused with the chocolate gave the dessert a savory note without being overwhelming. The use of cranberry infused in a warm cider with hints of rosemary capped off the entire experience. All of the basket ingredients were used in a palette pleasing fashion. This dessert could easily be added to the menu of any restaurant.

Canoe Cut Marrow Bones • Canoe Bones (or Canoe Cut Marrow Bones) are this year’s food trend and they are a great example of zero waste cooking.

• They are derived from beef leg bones cut in half lengthwise.

Score 94/100

• Once roasted, the marrow within the bone is the buttery goodness that can be spread on bread by itself, or it can be added to sauces and spreads to give them a rich full flavour.

• The bone itself can by used for presentation for savoury and warm appetizers

Winner!

• Canoe bones can be found today in our meat department and if you are planning a large gathering it is recommended that you call ahead to order sufficient quantities for your event.

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HOUSE & HOME

BUDGET BLINDS OF SOUTHWEST MANITOBA TEAM

Your local window covering expert Find stylish and functional window treatments at Budget Blinds of Southwest Manitoba

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

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What goes on your window should do more than just look good. At Budget Blinds of Southwest Manitoba, Sue Swarbrick and her team take the time to understand you and your unique needs to deliver the best custom window solution for the way you live.

Budget Blinds style consultants come to your home well-equipped with all kinds of treatments and colours, allowing you to test those colours and styles in your space and lighting. If you find something you like, they then take measurements and provide on-the-spot pricing.

“We can provide what we call an in-home shopping experience. We’ll come to your home, evaluate your window and ask you questions about your space,” explains Sue Swarbrick, Owner and Style Consultant, Budget Blinds Southwest Manitoba. “Is it about privacy?

Is it about heat? Is it about glare? What do you need these window coverings to do on this window?”

“Our vans carry about 14 of our vendors – and that’s really where our true magic is - our vendor alliances. We have access to over 27 vendors and it keeps building every year,” Swarbrick says. “We have access to prices, programs, options and functions you won’t find anywhere else. It makes us very unique in the marketplace.”

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Budget Blinds of Southwest Manitoba is family-owned and operated. This year, they are celebrating 10 years in business and undertaking some big changes to their warehouse.

“We’ve been at our current location for seven years and have become a destination where people come and talk windows,” Swarbrick says. “This was the year we decided to spruce up our own space. While we’ve painted our walls and replaced our floors with a more neutral, natural pallet, our end goal is to give customers a showroom where they can see and test products before their in-home consultation.”

The updates to the Budget Blinds warehouse will include product displays, a pillow wall and places customers can view a portfolio of completed projects for ideas and inspiration for their own space.

“I’m taking my time and putting a lot of thought into our showroom,” Swarbrick says. “I want to incorporate the latest in window automation and show people how different treatments work and function on larger windows. We want our showroom to showcase solutions. Everything we do here is customized – our end goal is to make sure your window treatment is right for your windows, is aesthetically pleasing and will work well for you for a long time.”

As the name implies, Budget Blinds of Southwest Manitoba can work with your budget and backs their products and services with some pretty stellar warranties.

“Our staff is incredibly knowledgeable. We’re all very conscientious and strive to provide the best experience possible to everyone who shops with us,” Swarbrick says.

“We’ve built an incredible clientele and relationships within this business – we wouldn’t be here today without our customers. Our repeat clients and referral rate is very high – so we are so grateful to everyone who has kept us busy in the community for 10 years.”

If you’re in the market for a new window treatment that is both beautiful and functional, get in touch with Sue Swarbrick and her team at Budget Blinds Southwest Manitoba for a free in-home consultation.

GORD SWARBRICK

SUE SWARBRICK

Budget Blinds of Southwest Manitoba 381 Park Ave E, Unit B Brandon, MB R7A 7A5 (204) 727-4766 sswarbrick@budgetblinds.com budgetblinds.com/southwestmanitoba/

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The Backyard on Aberdeen From professional functions to romantic weddings, this full-service venue is the perfect place for any event

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY MANDY WARK PHOTOGRAPHY AND STUDIO 78

If you have a vision for an upcoming event, The Backyard on Aberdeen has everything you need to bring it to life. With endless décor options to customized catering, the indoor and outdoor venue is ready to transform to whatever your heart’s desire.

“The Backyard on Aberdeen is a blank canvas to create a beautiful and personalized event,” explains Aida Harrison, Owner. “The great thing about The Backyard is there’s no running around to different vendors. We do everything in-house; the planning, food, venue, bar - it’s all included and easily customizable to fit your preferences and needs.”

The indoor and outdoor spaces of the venue can each host approximately 150 guests – and Harrison is optimistic that number will grow in the future.

The event sites boast crystal chandeliers, rustic wood tables, an enchanting outdoor canopy, custom bar and gorgeous granite-top bathrooms. The venue is also wheelchair accessible.

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What The Backyard on Aberdeen offers doesn’t stop there.

Once the doors to the business fully open, Harrison and her team are eager to offer a meal subscription service.

“Once our website is updated and ready to go, we’re going to offer a meal subscription service where people can subscribe to fresh and healthy homemade meals weekly or monthly,” Harrison explains. “We’ll have different meal plans and packages people can pick from.

The meal will come fully prepared – all subscribers will have to do is heat it up and enjoy!”

Harrison and her team also have wedding and event packages customers can select and then customize in the works.

“We’re very excited to share this beautiful venue, our décor services and catering options for anyone looking to plan a perfect, memorable event,” Harrison says. “We even have an onsite event planner to help you put your special day together. The Backyard on Aberdeen has everything you need to make event planning easy.”

If you’re on the hunt for a beautiful venue that takes the stress out of event planning, visit thebackyardonaberdeen. ca to lean more.

“While the space can be transformed with our in-house décor options, our menu is also absolutely fantastic. I am passionate about food and have brought on some incredible, talented chefs,” Harrison says. “We only cook with locally-sourced quality ingredients to create incredible homemade dishes. We can offer a Middle Eastern menu, which means we have a number of delicious options for vegan and vegetarian diets.”

The Backyard on Aberdeen is the amalgamation of a renovated venue, décor company Black Tie Events and Harrison’s own catering business. With over 22 years of experience teaching, cooking and working in the culinary industry, Harrison knows good food.

“What I hope to provide Brandon and all the Westman area is a wonderful experience and quality services they can count on for their event needs,” Harrison says. “We can host anything - and we do provide catering and food service outside of our own facilities, too. Since we’re also a rental business, people can also come to us to rent our décor to use at a different venue.”

The Backyard on Aberdeen & Event Rentals Aida’s Catering 1624 13th Street Brandon, MB (204)-520-0812 thebackyardonaberdeen@gmail.com

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A NOSE FOR GREAT SERVICE

Come join us for play time at Friends Fur Life Daycare!!

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There are so many benefits to having your furbaby attend doggy daycare!

And listed below are just a few.

• Alleviates boredom and loneliness, and the anxiety that loneliness can cause, such as separation anxiety • Helps socialization with people • Provides necessary exercise and socialization with other dogs who learn how to play in a pack • Prevents destructive behavior that can occur when a dog is home alone and unsupervised • Eliminates guilt for pet parents who feel worried or remorseful about leaving their dogs unattended home alone all day • Learn how to play in a pack • Acclimatizes puppies to parting from their owners at an early stage • Facilitates calmness and better sleep for dog and owner Once you have decided to attend our daycare make sure to see a vet to ensure that all the vaccines that are required to attend are up to date and screened for any potential health issues. This is very important!

So! Now you have chosen to attend Friends fur Life Daycare, what is the cost?

We offer many different costs to fit your budget.

Pass

Per Day

Total Payment*

1 Day Pass

$20.00

$20.00

10 Day Pass

$18.00

$180.00

20 Day Pass $17.50 $350.00 _______________________________________ 1 - ½ Day Pass

$14.65

$14.65

10 – ½ Day Pass

$14.00

$140.00

20 – ½ Day Pass

$13.75

$275.00

* Total payment does not include GST

We also offer a very easy way to book your daycare ahead of time to ensure you have a spot!

This amazing portal also allows you to view your passes and ensure that you are aware of how many you have left, upcoming bookings, and other great communication tools!

Visit our website www.friendsfurlifedaycare.com – Select our BOOK NOW and Create a Profile! Follow the instructions and voila you are ready to go!

We are open 6:45am – 6pm Monday through Friday.

We are located at 941 26th street, Brandon Manitoba.

We offer onsite grooming and nail trimming.

We have lots of love to give.

We hope to see you soon!

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The Importance of Wills

BY ALEX KLIPPENSTEIN, EPP LAW OFFICE

require the consent of all the other next of kin if they are closer in relation to you than the person willing to make the application.

WHEN SHOULD I REVIEW MY WILL? WHY DO I NEED A WILL? A will allows you to provide clear directions for your property after you die. A will also lets you provide a back-up plan for your property if the person you plan to give your property to dies before you. If you have children, a will can specifically name a legal guardian for your children in the event that you and your partner pass away while your children are still minors. A will also allows you to name the person in charge of your property when you die. You can name multiple people or substitutes if the first named person dies before you.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DIE WITHOUT A WILL? In Manitoba there are certain default rules under the Intestate Succession Act that list who is entitled to your property if you die without a will. These rules basically say that the first person entitled to your property if you die without a will is your spouse or common law partner, then your biological children, then your parents and then your siblings. Not having a will makes it more difficult to administer your estate as your next of kin will have to make an application to the court which will 40

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Generally speaking, it is recommended that you review your will every 5 to 10 years or after a significant life event. This could be a marriage, separation, divorce or acquisition of a large amount of property. It is important to note that any will that you may have before marriage is void after marriage as your partner will have certain rights to your estate regardless of whether or not they are included in your will. Your will can be changed anytime before you die provided you are mentally competent.

Depending on the changes you plan to make, some changes can be made by attaching these to your original will without having to make a completely new will.

Alex Klippenstein prepares Wills, Powers of Attorney and Trusts to assist clients in fulfilling their unique estateplanning objectives. Contact Alex for your consultation.

Epp Law Office Unit A – 642 18th Street, Brandon MB 204-717-3775 alex@epplawoffice.ca www.epplawoffice.ca

A Season of Thanks What a year it has been – we are forever grateful. When Epp Law Office first opened our doors November 2 2020, we were a team of 4. Since then, our team has expanded to 10, and with that, we outgrew our space and moved into a newer, larger space to accommodate the new staff and clients.

Our team is dedicated to building relationships and taking care of every unique detail for each client and situation. We pride ourselves on our experience and continued excellence that has built Epp Law Office.

Best Wishes this Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year.

The Team at Epp Law Office

Epp Law Office 642 18th Street, Unit A Brandon MB 1-204-717-3775 www.epplawoffice.ca

HOW TO MAXIMIZE YOUR HOLIDAY HAPPINESS

BY MICHAEL VAN LIEROP, PRESIDENT NEW OUTLOOK WEALTH MANAGEMENT

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The holiday shopping season

is notorious for blowing a massive hole in most family budgets, regardless of income. This year, with warnings of supply chain disruptions, shortages, and shipping delays from China, retailers – both online and offline – are urging Canadians to get their shopping done early. This has always been well-meaning, though often-ignored, advice, but this year seems different. Early holiday shopping does offer one major financial advantage – you can plan and prepare your spending. Last minute shopping (which includes most retail excursions around Christmas-time, due to the impulsive buys we all tend to succumb to!) is routinely blamed for maxing out credit cards.

The fourth annual Holiday Shopping Survey, conducted by the Retail Council of Canada, found that Canadians are more optimistic going into this holiday season than last year, and are ready to return to physical stores, shopping in person, and spending more money. The survey also revealed that 30 per cent of participants planned to start their shopping before November and 36 per cent in November. Canadians will spend, on average, $792 leading up to the holidays.

How do you mitigate the potential damage of all of this shopping? The most diligent budgeter will have planned judiciously throughout the year for the gift giving season, some even opting to buy and stash the gifts when the right item appeared back in June or July. Some people will deliberately set aside a monthly savings goal for this purpose, ensuring they don’t end up in a credit card-fueled buying frenzy at the last minute. A simple $100 a month or $25 a week set aside in a separate account can do the trick.

That sort of discipline may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it absolutely works. But what else can you do?

It’s simple – set a budget, and stick to it. Even if the budget requires some borrowing from the bank of Mastercard, the very fact you’re setting a limit (that, hopefully, is below your credit limit) is a simple and effective way to psychologically remain in control. You can set a total budget, or even break it down by target recipient. This budget can be made months in advance, take into account unforeseen holiday expenses, large increases in food and booze consumption for parties, and even those oopsie-gifts (those bought at the very last minute because you forgot someone, literally hours before they arrive for dinner). Right. That never happens!

Overall, whether holiday shopping is a year-round concern or a last-ditch effort to keep someone happy, it can represent thousands of dollars in expenditure for an average family.

If you’ve never considered entering it as a line-item in your financial plan’s budget, perhaps it’s time to review your spending plans for 2022 with your Advisor.

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COVER FEATURE

Sit back, relax and face life with a smile

by Princess Dental

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

Princess Dental is making dentist chair anxiety a thing of the past. While it’s quite common to feel uneasy about dental visits, it’s important to remember that taking care of your smile is essential to your overall health, well-being and quality of life.

At Princess Dental, whether you need a simple filling, are interested in cosmetic work or require full smile transformation, Dr. Geoff McIntosh and his team are committed to preventative, restorative, implant and cosmetic dentistry in a comfortable, compassionate environment.

If you’re someone who feels nervous about trips to the dentist, this is the office that specializes at putting patients just like you at ease.

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“We are one of the first dental offices in the area to offer a variety of sedation dentistry options. This is something we invested into our practice early on, as we know there are a lot of nervous people out there.” - Dr. Geoff McIntosh

“We are one of the first dental offices in the area to offer a variety of sedation dentistry options. This is something we invested into our practice early on, as we know there are a lot of nervous people out there,” explains Dr. Geoff McIntosh, Owner, Princess Dental. “Sometimes a little bit of help with medication is what it takes to get people over that hump of anxiety and into the dentist chair. Our goal is to help our patients get the care they need.”

When a patient is sedated, they will often feel as though they slept through their entire appointment and may not remember anything. Dr. McIntosh explains that sedation dentistry is a broad term that encompasses many different treatment options, such as oral pills, gas or an IV administration of medications. If a patient is sensitive to gagging or has a big treatment coming up that they’re nervous about, the team at Princess Dental works with

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the patient to determine what type of sedation is the best option.

“Ultimately, we hope people can get used to visiting the dentist and, once comfortable, off sedation,” Dr. McIntosh says. “Some people have gone from needing a full IV sedation for simple treatments to getting through dental work without needing any medication at all. Being comfortable enough to not need it – that’s really the goal.”

Princess Dental has also invested heavily on bringing the best technology modern dentistry has to offer to Brandon.

New technologies have changed dentistry in a dramatic fashion – going to the dentist now is much different than going to the dentist ten or 15 years ago. Many scans and diagnostics can be done digitally. To name a few, Dr. McIntosh has included 3D printers, intraoral scanners, CAD/CAM milling units and a CT machine to the equipment on hand.

“We recently moved to a new location from the downtown area and we really put thought into the space and the technology we want to have available,” Dr. McIntosh says. “We’re doing a lot more digital dentistry – so if someone needs a custom crown, we can do it in one appointment instead of two. We have intraoral scanners that have eliminated the need to use the goopy impression material to take impressions. It’s really cutting-edge – not just from a clinical perspective, but from a comfort one as well.”

Comfort is key at Princess Dental – and the new location isn’t just home to some of the best technology the dental profession has to offer. Parking is easy to get, the office is easy to find and the clinic itself is clean, cozy and professional.

“It’s a very comfortable atmosphere that doesn’t feel overly sterile,” explains Dr. McIntosh. “We have high vaulted ceilings, some wood paneling and have made the waiting area look like a nice living room with plush couches and chairs. It’s a top-notch facility – professional, clean, lots of natural light and very welcoming.”

One of the main reasons for the move was because the staff and clientele at Princess Dental continues to grow.

“While we are seeing more patients, we also have an excellent staff roster. When my wife and I took over the practice, we set two major priorities; we take care of our patients and we also take care of our team,” Dr. McIntosh says. “Our team is amazing – they’re all-stars.

They are compassionate, caring and really take the time to understand a patient’s wants and hopes for their longterm dental needs.”

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Dr. McIntosh and his wife Adele purchased Princess Dental almost ten years ago. Since then, they have grown the business substantially while staying true to the practice’s core philosophy of comfort and personalized care for every patient that walks through their doors.

To date, Princess Dental has five dentists on staff.

“While each dentist does have their own particular interests, we are really a multifaceted team that can support one another. I do a lot of sedation treatments, dental implants and more complex cases while other members of my team may gravitate to cosmetic treatments, minor orthodontics or general family dentistry,” Dr. McIntosh says. “We accept patients of all ages and also offer Invisalign. All the hygienists who work here are also phenomenal and really great with our clientele.”

Compassionate, clear and collaborative care is at the heart of Princess Dental. The practice places a high value on personalized attention, understanding and fostering longterm relationships with patients.

“We have a deep interest and passion to really get to know our patients and understand what they want in the long-run,” Dr. McIntosh says. “We’ll ask the questions about what you want your smile to look like in ten or 15

years. We want to help you achieve the smile that can maximize your personal health and builds self-esteem.”

While visiting the dentist every six months may not be the appointment you look forward to – it’s definitely an important one to keep. Along with protecting you from plaque, tartar and cavities, your dentist is highly trained to recognize the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer, gum disease and bite issues. Princess Dental goes the extra mile to ensure your comfort. From their compassionate staff to the atmosphere of their office and sedation options – they have everything you need to find the courage to face life with a smile.

Learn more about Dr. Geoff McIntosh and his team at Princess Dental at princessdental.com.

Princess Dental 3409 Victoria Ave Brandon MB 204-727-0440

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Shop Local HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

A change of scenery is in the air!

For some it's the transition to some normalcy, for others it's the anticipation of all things fun and social, but for all Manitobans, Winter and the glorious season of the holidays is almost among us which means it’s a time to celebrate!

We hope our Shop Local Gift Guide makes spoiling your loved ones as enjoyable and stress-free as possible this holiday season. xoxo The Mint Experience

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HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING

in Style!

Baby | Candles | Clothing – Size inclusive Women’s clothing, Maternity, Baby & Curve | LIfestyle

Style Bar is a Women’s lifestyle boutique in Winnipeg dedicated to inspiring customers through a unique combination of women’s custom apparel, lifestyle accessories, and homeware goods.

Style Bar 470 River Avenue, Unit C | Winnipeg, Manitoba | (204) 505-1351 hello@stylebarwpg.com | www.shopstylebar.com |

1. Holiday Mugs $25 2. Winter Candle $29 3. Poppy & Pout Lip Balms $12.95 4. Christmas Onsies $38 5. Chunky Christmas Sweater $82 6. Holiday Matches $16

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Celebrating Life’s Milestones THE ART OF GIFTING The perfect WOW gift –

unique and gorgeous. It’s the time of year to adorn your loved ones with stand out jewellery, and gives us more reason to celebrate.

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A Season of Love

Breathtakingly beautiful that captures the essence of love.

1858 Portage Ave Winnipeg, MB (204) 487-4732 info@vandenbergs.ca www.vandenbergs.ca The Mint Experience

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CLASSIC The new KUMA accessories at Pik-A-Dilly RV Centre are undeniably eye-catching.

As recreational vehicles have evolved, so have the outdoor spaces that accompany them. Families are looking to furnish their campsites with new luxury fabrics and designs. Gear with function, fashion and style tops the wish lists of many RV enthusiasts.

KUMA is a Canadian company with a strong allegiance to the RV industry and a deep and developed understanding of the Canadian wilderness and the Canadian camping experience.

They make rugged, durable products that are made to last, with attention to quality materials and cold-weather suitability.

Kuma Heated Chairs $260 single One of the products that has been as popular as a Cabbage Patch Doll of the 80s or the Nintendo Switch of recent years, is the KUMA heated chair. Each oversized camp chair has a 10 x 10 inch battery operated pad for warmth. The lithium USB rechargeable batteries come with the chair and can even charge your cell phone while you stay cozy by the campfire. KUMA chairs are priced at $260 and there’s a waiting list to own one.

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KUMA Sleeping bags | $78

Cozy KUMA oversized blanket | $92

Full size, single chair, unheated | $150 Loveseat, unheated, $225 Child sized chairs (not shown) 2 colours to choose from | $38 Propane fireplace $270 Campsite mats $116 and up

Pik-A-Dilly RV Centre 320 Highland Ave., Brandon MB | 204-728-8570 | www.pikadilly.com | Seasonal closure: December 23rd to January 4th 2022.

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SKIN CARE

Must Haves Bilberry Super Fruit AHA Fruit Acid Facial Exfoliant Exfoliating the build up of skin cells is one of the most important steps to beautiful, flawless skin and allows your LIFANCE Serums and Moisturizers to work their magic!

Restore Botanical Gel Cleanser Gentle, but highly effective skin cleanser removes make-up and environmental debris. Doubles as a face-mask if left on for 5-10 minutes.

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Renew Botanical Retinol Serum Overflowing with powerful ingredients, this provides the maximum concentration of botanical alternatives to synthetic Retinol.

Marine Mineral Complex Night Moisturizer Formulated with Sea Kelp Bioferment + Botanical Caviar Oil + Algae Collagen + Mango Butter + Murumuru Butter to provide super hydration and build collagen & elastin.

Neroli Orange Blossom

Wild Pansy Sea Serum

Compounds in Neroli can help the body to regenerate skin cells and maintain the elasticity of the skin. Orange Blossom Water is able to correct levels of moisture and oils in the skin.

Hyaluronic acid hydration booster that is ideal for all skin types, especially dry and dehydrated skin

Hairistocracy Salon & Spa

Icelandic Berry Brightening Serum

2103 Princess Ave., Brandon MB 204-728-4800 hairistocracy@outlook.com www.hairistocracysalonandspa.com

This Vitamin C serum brightens, lightens and supports collagen regeneration.

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Essentials HAIR CARE

R & Co

Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

R+Co

For big, beautiful, bouncy hair, use DALLAS. This thickening shampoo adds vitality to fine, flat hair while nourishing and strengthening from root to tip.

Sun Catcher Power C Boosting Leave-In Conditioner

DEATH VALLEY DRY SHAMPOO

This nourishing and protective leave-in conditioner helps soften, seal, detangle and fight frizz. Can be used on damp or dry hair.

Good for all hair types in need of protective nourishment, light hold and shine.

The quickest way to get volume and body into your hair. This dry shampoo absorbs extra oil and adds texture.

OUTER SPACE FLEXIBLE HAIRSPRAY Let go of limits with OUTER SPACE. Good for just about anything! Style to desired finish and hold, reapply with no build up.

TWO-WAY MIRROR SMOOTHING OIL This lightweight, smoothing oil melts into hair leaving strands polished and lustrous without weighing them down.

Good for revitalizing and smoothing all hair types and textures.

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MAXIMALIST MUST HAVE KIT More is more for the maximalist – and this kit delivers full-size goods in spades. Kit Includes Television Perfect Hair Shampoo + Conditioner, High Dive Moisture + Shine Crème, Death Valley Dry Shampoo, Outer Space Flexible Hairspray, Balloon Dry Volume Spray, Control Flexible Paste, Mood Swing Straightening Spray, R+Co Branded Bag with snap closure.

Magic Wand Brow Gel Cast an all-day spell with Magic Wand, a tack-free brow gel that tames and conditions while keeping your brows in place.

STARS ALIGN SCENTED CANDLE Like the moment when dusk hits – a fragrance so exquisite, yet so simple.

HIT LIST ESSENTIALS KIT Bundling full size + travel minis, this kit contains Television Perfect Hair Shampoo & Conditioner, High Dive Moisture + Shine Crème, Death Valley Dry Shampoo, Outer Space Flexible Hairspray, Balloon Dry Volume Spray, Control Flexible Paste, Mood Swing Straightening Spray, R+Co Branded Bag with snap closure

Hairistocracy Salon & Spa 2103 Princess Ave., Brandon MB 204-728-4800 hairistocracy@outlook.com www.hairistocracysalonandspa.com

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Generation Green’s

Favorite Things EAT DRINK & BUY GOODIES **********

“Warms My Heart Bundle” Fresh Emblem Wood Air Fresheners $9 * Sew Dandee Hand Stamped MB Dish Towel $24 * Simply Delish Soup Mixes $12 Spreads By Cede - Gourmet Infused Nut Butter $12.99 * Macs By Beth Cookie Mix $18 *

“Be Kind Bundle” Haymad Be Kind Hoodie $55 * Haymad Be Kind Ceramic Mug $15 * Harmonic Arts Chaga Mushroom Adaptogen $35.95 Rebels Refinery Skull Lip Balm $4.95

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SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL Gift more thoughtfully, give the gift of local this holiday season.

“Light Em Up Bundle” Blume Tumeric Mix $25 8 O’Clock Craft Linen Towel $18 * Luxe Pamas Dried Bouquets $55 * Light Em Up Soy Candle in Spiked Cider Scent $27 * Charlies Charmed Handmade Birch Lapel Pin $25

“Divine Bundle” Brie’s Botanicals Room & Body Spray $25 * Caroquilla Bamboo Underwear $21.95 * Tree Hugger Winky Cloth Pads $13 * Blume Lavender Latte Mix $25

“You Glow Girl Bundle” Warm Buddy Warming Pillow With Affirmation $36.99 Soak Bath Co. Bath Bomb $9.99 * SweetPea Natural Skin Care “You Glow Girl” Moisturizer $34.99 * SweetPea Natural Skin Care Rose Quartz Gua Sha Tool $35 *

Generation Green in The Exchange 100 – 433 Main Street (204) 808-9848 generationgreenwpg@gmail.com www.generationgreenwpg.com

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EAT DRINK & BUY GOODIES

Generation Green’s

Continued...

********** “Stuff Bundle” Julie Pedersen Design “Stuff Bag” $16 * Just The Goods Facial Moisturizer $19.90 * Pure Anada Nailpolish $12 * Pure Anada Pressed Eye Shadow $8 Pure Anada Mascara $16 * Herbs & Butters Skincare - Hyaluronic Acid Facial Serum $35 *

“Rainbow Bundle”

“Indulge In MB Bundle”

Made By Martel Rainbow Wall Decor $50 *

Genuine Bodycare Shower Steamers $16/4pack *

Bee Sew Inspired Reindeer $49.95 *

Kecara Body Butter $18.99 *

The Wolseley Block Party Book $20 *

Essentially Handmade Luxury Bath Salts $20 *

Mama Pacha Chubby Cheek Stick $9.97 *

Soak Bath Co. Elderberry Zero Waste Soap Bar $14.95 *

Carina Organics Bubble Bath $16.99

Practical Homestead Soap Sack $6 * Cest Ta Vie Beaded Earrings (Metis Designer) $45 *

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SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL Gift more thoughtfully, give the gift of local this holiday season.

“Shave Bundle” Shaving Mug $30 Shaving Brush $20 Rockwell Safety Razor $35 Rebels Refinery Moisturizer $12 Beard & Brawn Aftershave $29 * Colibri Large Bag $9.50 *

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Stocking Stuffers 1.

Caroquilla Bamboo Socks $12.95 *

2.

Sip Smart Collapsible Straw $10 *

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Made By Martel Rainbow Bag Charm $12 *

4.

Vego Chocolate Bar (Vegan) $5.50

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That Stuff For Pain - Trial Size $3.99 *

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Bamboo travel Case for Toothbrush $9.98

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Bamboo Toothbrush $5.50

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Soul Deo Aromatherapy Shower Mist Trial Size - $8 *

Generation Green in The Exchange 100 – 433 Main Street, Winnipeg MB (204) 808-9848 generationgreenwpg@gmail.com www.generationgreenwpg.com

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FURBABY LOVE

all season long We know just how to spoil your furbabies this holiday season. Shop our online selection of the very best in unique or custom gifts.

HOOPET bed Paw Balm Christmas Hat

Dog water bottle Folding pet bowl

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Pet collar

Pet lounger Reindeer

Christmas Hat

Seat carrier

Friend Fur Life Daycare & Grooming 941-26th Street, Brandon, MB 204-728-0900 info@friendsfurlifedaycare.com www.friendsfurlifedaycare.com

Pet car seat

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Giving the gift of

Skin Care

Giving the gift of skin care encourages your friends and family to carve out time for self care, providing a daily reminder to relax. Winter is a beautiful time of year, but can wreck havoc on skin - treat your loved ones to skin care that will protect their skin, and get their glow on.

FACIAL RECOVERY OIL

Liquid Gold This luxurious facial oil is all about glowing complexions. Perfect for travellers to keep skin hydrated after take off.

This formula is made from organic and Biodynamic® ingredients, infused with precious herbs and oils to soothe even the driest winter skin.

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7 benefits of using Facial Recovery Oil • Smooths chapped lips • Reduces the look of aging in the neck area • Moisturizes dry cuticles • Targets the look of stretch marks • Improves the appearance of scars • Alleviates redness due to dry skin • Reduces the look of puffy eyes and crow’s feet

BAMBOO FIRMING FLUID

COCONUT AGE CORRECTIVE MOISTURIZER

For tighter looking skin, Bamboo Firming Fluid is the answer. The strengthening agents of bamboo and coconut deeply hydrates, with the help of a Natural Retinol Alternative and Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells.

With each application of our Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer, you’ll feel your skin instantly tighten and lift. Coconut, shea butter and grape seed oil combine with green apple stem cell technology that offers lasting age correction.

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MARINE FLOWER PEPTIDE NIGHT CREAM Smooth, hydrate and tone while you sleep. This rich, velvety overnight essential is formulated specifically for delicate skin. Lock in moisture and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with each application. All in a night’s work.

STONE CROP GEL WASH For those with even the most sensitive skin, Stone Crop Gel Wash washes away impurities without drying out the skin.

The oil-free extracts help even skin tone and minimize the appearance of blemishes to leave a healthy complexion.

Cruelty-free and formulated without parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, animal byproducts, phthalates, GMOs and triclosan.

NEROLI AGE CORRECTIVE HYDRATING MIST A collagen boosting toner with Natural Retinol Alternative and Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells for all skin types, especially mature. Your skin will feel smoother and appear tighter with the energizing boost of fragrant neroli oil. Cruelty-free and formulated without parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates, animal byproducts, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs and triclosan.

Pantages Hair Salon & Spa 1360 Park Ave., Brandon MB (204) 727-2053 info@pantageshair.com www.pantageshair.com

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ALL WRAPPED UP,

Take a peep at our latest luxuries

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Gifts: 1. Linen is a magical fabric, keeping you cool in the summer and toasty warm in the winter. It’s all down to the fibres, which are longer than cotton and therefore create a looser weave within the fabric. Linen is also better at absorbing moisture, and at naturally regulating body temperature - great news for anyone who gets really hot or cold at night, too.! Starting at $375.

2. Bath robes make the perfect gift! Our robes are available in a variety of fabrics from terry to waffle knits. Nothing compares to the soft and luxurious feeling 66

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of our legendary robe designed for women and men by Barefoot Dreams. It’s irresistibly cozy and the perfect way to start and end your day. The length from shoulder seam to hem: Size 1 (44”), Size 2 (47”), Size 3 (50”). Available in a variety of colors! $195 3. Get comfy and cozy in our 2 piece pajama flannel set by Latte Love. Made in 100% cotton, this traditional notch collar top and relaxed pant set features contrast piping throughout. Choose this classic grey or keep it festive and whimsical with a seasonal print.

Sizes small through xl. $125

4. Fluffy Frappe is one of our original and most popular colors.

A Classic!!! Featuring our light & fluffy cotton candy signature fabric that will certainly keep you comfy & cozy wherever your travels take you! Speaking of travels, Nordic Beach is ideal for traveling.

• Made from our light & fluffy cotton candy signature fabric. The super soft micro poly is easy to care for.

• Machine wash separate, cool temperature, delicate cycle, and air dry! Once dry, shake to fluff or tumble dry NO heat 30 seconds.

These wraps are one size and available in Frappe, Grey and Plum! $145

Fit: Lingerie is for EVERY BODY. Comfort, a fashionable look, and a healthy dose of selfconfidence - Prima Donna is the leading lingerie brand for larger breasts. Feel the effect of beautiful, comfortable lingerie by trying on our lingerie sets. Store sizes range from 32A – 44K.

Basics: Ultra light and innovative, Corin perfectly adapts to the shape of breasts, it is very light, provides excellent support and is pleasant to the touch.

Thanks to the smooth surface of the cups this bra is not visible under the t-shirts. The classic Virginia model in an excellent choice for women who appreciate minimalism and comfort. That’s the beauty in simplicity. In stock in sizes 32 B – 40H in nude and black and red. $98.

Gravity Lingerie Sexy: No fall wardrobe is complete without a stylish black set, right?

Marie Jo Gloria is feminine with sensual details. The surprising combination of velvet and embroidery gives these sets a stylish, festive touch. Perfect for New Year’s Eve!

252 Stafford Street Winnipeg, MB 204-691-8858 info@gravitylingerie.ca www.gravitylingerie.ca

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A full-service venue perfect for any event

The Backyard on Aberdeen & Event Rentals Aida’s Catering Unit B – 1624 13 Street Brandon, Manitoba (204)-520-0812 www.thebackyardonaberdeen.ca |