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CARDIO AND BEYOND: Is your body getting the strength and flexibility training it craves?

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My weekly Zumba classes are overflowing with women of all ages (and one brave guy) all speeding towards our individual health goals. Personally, I’m there to get in the zone and sweat through an intense cardio workout. Time flies as we salsa, merengue and even tango to fabulous music while getting our heart rates up.

The physical benefits of an intense cardio workout include heart health, increased stamina, and weight maintenance, but fitness isn’t just about cardio. Other, often neglected forms of movement are equally crucial. 

With every passing year our bodies change. Everyone needs exercises that increase our flexibility, balance, strength and overall physical fitness, especially if we lead a sedentary lifestyle. Sitting at a desk all day impacts flexibility… and “texting neck” is a real thing!

Jennifer Luckanuck, a physiotherapist in self-practice and at Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic understands the benefits of supplementing cardio workouts with exercises that work on these areas. She specializes in myofascial relief, helping clients to release tension in the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding nerves, organs, and muscles, ultimately helping to improve movement, aid in flexibility and end pain. New research about the fascia indicates that it runs deep in our cells, surrounding our nerves and blood vessels, and even compromising parts of our bones. 

“It’s key to supplement our cardio exercise routines with strength (core power and balance) and flexibility because after 40 we lose about 1% of our muscle size, and we can lose 3-5% of our power if we aren’t doing any resistance training,” Luckanuck says. “If we don’t do strength training, that muscle decline puts us at risk for falls and overall reduced mobility. From ages 20 to 49 our flexibility starts to decline by 10% each decade, which affects our joints and how we move.”

A dedicated flexibility or stretching routine can improve our range of motion. As we age, maintaining balance and stability is key to preventing falls.  

Yoga is a practice used by many to increase flexibility, become more mindful of how the body is feeling, and calm the mind. According to Monica Angelatos, owner of Be Yoga & Wellness in Burlington, a yoga or pilates class is a gentle way to temper the frenetic cardio workouts many of us engage in. There are proven benefits to slowing down, breathing, and being mindful. 

Often cardio and high energy workouts produce a fight or flight effect in our bodies, taxing our systems, and often defeating the purpose of the workout. The “blissed out” effect that yoga aficionados report is the opposite of this feeling. 

“You want to do exercises that are hitting core strength, because the core is everything,” Angelatos says. “When you have a strong core, you have a strong body.”

Yoga promotes postures that lengthen the body and improve range of motion, balance, and core stabilization. These are all things you can work on and regain, according to Angelatos.

Adding a new activity once a week is a great place to start, and many gyms or studios offer a free introductory class. Remember to have fun with all of your fitness activities. Keep moving and learning! 

LOCAL LINKS

Be Yoga & Wellness Burlington
beyogawellness.com

Burlington Sports and Spine Clinic
burlingtonsportsandspine.com

Fit For Life Physiotherapy
Burlington
fitforlifephysio.ca

Jennifer Luckanuck Physiotherapy
jluckanuck@gmail.com

Live Well Exercise Clinic Oakville
livewellclinic.ca

Jazzercise Oakville
jazzercise.com

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LEGACY IN STYLE: A Burlington retail family evolves through mentorship and community pride

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Joelle Cooling has fostered a collective spirit from the day she opened the doors to her successful downtown Burlington fashion boutique, Joelle’s. A deep-rooted connection to giving back, whether through volunteering, fundraising, charity work, or mentorship, was ingrained in her early. At age nine, Cooling got her first taste of hard work at her best friend’s family greenhouse, as helping out was the only way to hang out. That experience would help define her career as an entrepreneur.

A New Chapter

Cooling recently retired from ownership of Joelle’s after 28 years. Her legacy will continue through three local businesses, each playing a role in reimagining the retail scene. This unique transition, happening at a challenging time for independent retailers, is a refreshing evolution for Burlington’s downtown core. It includes the launch of Joelle’s By Ally on John Street; the expansion into Joelle’s former Brant Street location of Jeff’s Guyshop, run by her husband Jeff with their son Jackson joining the team; and the arrival of ROAM, owned by Alex Brooker and Erica Gower, both former Joelle’s employees, in the previous Jeff’s Guyshop space.

“You’ll still see me working at Joelle’s by Ally on occasion or over at the men’s store,” Cooling says. “The relationship with my customers is so valued and never forgotten.” 

The evolution of retail

Cooling is transparent about her reason for retiring: burnout. After navigating the pandemic, keeping pace with the constantly changing digital world, and feeling physically exhausted, she wants others to know they’re not alone if they’re feeling overwhelmed. “I’m giving myself a break so I can be the best me again,” says Cooling. “My focus is wellness, and wellness for me includes the business.”

A series of serendipitous events led to ensuring the right person would carry on her business. This person turned out to be Ally Reed. “Her dad shopped at our store and always spoke so highly of his daughter,” she explains. “Ally had always dreamed of opening her own business, and I agreed to mentor her for a year and then continue the discussion about ownership.”

Soon after the doors closed at the original Joelle’s location, Joelle’s By Ally opened on February 10, 2025. “Moving to a new space gave us the opportunity to reimagine the already successful brand,” shares Reed, new owner of the boutique. “It was important to me to design a space that still felt authentic to the old store but with my twist on it.”

After a complete renovation, Jeff’s Guyshop reopened on March 1, offering a revitalized shopping experience in a bigger space. “We have created a hub downtown with the three businesses,” says Jackson Cooling. “All of the stores are on the same block and have the same familiar faces our customers have grown to love over the years.” 

As the new shop on the block, ROAM also opened on March 1. “We get to build our following and continue to help customers we’ve known for the many years we worked at Joelle’s,” adds Gower. “We’re excited to put our spin on a new boutique experience and style sense.” 

Tailoring the future

Beyond business planning and logistics, the transition underscores something even more important – having someone who believes in you. “Joelle has mentored me about the importance of our customers and providing exceptional service,” says Reed. “Her dedication to the community and her passion for business gave me the confidence to continue Joelle’s business forward.”

“Joelle’s unwavering support helped get us here. We grew our friendship as her employees, and she remained our mentor and role model,” explains Brooker. “She encouraged us along the way and offered us the space to expand our permanent footprint in downtown Burlington.”

Jackson Cooling echoes the sentiment. “I’m looking forward to continuing the legacy of the business my parents started,” he says, “but also adding my personal touch on things to welcome the next generation of shoppers.” 

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OVEN FRESH: Innovators make Oakville’s bakery scene even sweeter

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There’s something to satisfy every palette at Oakville’s local bakeries. Decadent cookie butter cupcakes, New York-style rolled croissants and intricately decorated fresh fruit tarts are just some of the confections available to the city’s bakery-goers. There is a vast selection of outstanding bakeries to choose from, but here we are focusing on just three that have opened recently in the area.  Make it your next weekend plan to stop into one — or all — of these local shops.

Tatin Bakehouse 

No sweet tooth? No problem. At Tatin Bakehouse, savoury baked goods are as much a focus as their sweeter options. Pastry chef Lili Linda and her business partner Sheila Wang have come together to craft these delicious offerings, which are largely driven by the Indonesian flavours Linda grew up with. She describes the bakery as a French patisserie focused on South East Asian ingredients.

One of their signature tarts has black rice on the bottom and a baked custard, similar to creme brulee, on top. “People are hesitant to try rice in a tart, but once they do, they enjoy it. The flavour is floral and not overpowering,” Linda says.

Also on the menu is an entirely savoury,
decidedly non-dessert treat. It’s nearly impossible not to make an audible “mmm” when biting into a — wait for it — shepherd’s pie tart from Tatin Bakehouse. They’re really that good. With notes of caramelization from the slow-cooked Indonesian-style beef brisket, a kick of tanginess from the
pickled onion, and a balance of textures from the spelt flour shell and garlic
mashed potatoes on top, the dish is everything you could ask for in 
a snack and more. 

If you’ve visited the now Michelin Starred restaurant, Hexagon, in Downtown Oakville, you may have had the pleasure of trying Linda’s creations already – she worked there for 5 years honing her craft making exceptional desserts
and pastries, before going out on her own and eventually opening Tatin in 2024. At Tatin you’ll have the opportunity to experience her flexing her creativity and showcasing the breadth of her culinary experience and influences. The pastries and baked goods are simply exquisite – a must try! 

Bake On

Chances are you’ll want to order one of everything when you walk into North Oakville’s Bake On. The Korean-inspired bakery’s menu is studded with tasty pastries you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere — honey butter croissants, biscoff s’more cookies, and matcha basque cheesecake, to name a few. What Bake On is best known for are their stunning New York rolls, which are circular croissants each filled with a flavoured velvety custard. 

Jaeho Kim, a professional chef, and Sea Yie, an avid baker, are the husband-and-wife duo behind the year-old bakery. The couple moved to Canada from Korea a decade ago and take inspiration from Korean cookbooks and social media recipe videos. They’ve nailed down the art of adapting their creative baking approach to trends. 

Bake On started as a small family-run business but has grown into a thriving community hub. “We’ve expanded into hiring more staff and enjoy connecting with regulars who often come in every day,” says Yie. “I’m very happy to have opened in Oakville.”  

Kelly’s Bake Shoppe

Many people are shocked to find out that Kelly’s Bake Shoppe’s menu is 100 percent gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free and peanut-free. According to co-founder Erinn Weatherbie — who started Kelly’s nearly 13 years ago with her mother, Kelly Childs — the pair’s goal has always been to create the most delicious allergen-friendly desserts. 

Turning classics into something new and exciting is what the bakery does best. Their red velvet cupcake, for example, uses beet juice to colour the batter rather than artificial dyes, which gives the cake an earthy, well-rounded flavour. 

“We never want to lose the integrity of the product, so we use the highest quality ingredients,” Weatherbie says. Their regularly featured brookie cupcake is an all-time best-seller, featuring a chocolate cupcake with house-made cookie dough inside, frosted with chocolate buttercream and topped with a mini chocolate chip cookie and brownie.  

Kelly’s expanded from their Burlington flagship location to Lakeshore Road in Oakville last December. “From the other business owners, to customers and downtown residents, we’ve felt such a warm embrace since the day we opened,” Weatherbie says.

Bakeries are a tasty example of what happens when artistry and entrepreneurship collide. Here’s to the pastry chefs and kitchen wizards who keep our tastebuds alive!  

LOCAL LINKS

Bake On
3075 George Savage Avenue, Oakville
bakeon.ca

Kelly’s Bake Shop
401 Brant Street, Burlington
259 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville
kellysxo.com

Tatin Bakehouse
2345 Wyecroft Road
Unit 20, Oakville
instagram: tatinbakehouse

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Wrap Up Some Me Time: Surprise Mom With An Experiential Gift This Mother’s Day

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Guess what the average mother craves but might not ask for: some quality time to herself. This Mother’s Day, consider treating Mom to an experience that helps her relax, recharge, and reconnect with her passions. Whether it’s a spa retreat, a creative workshop, a gourmet adventure, or a day in nature, Halton Region offers plenty of ways to celebrate the amazing mothers in our lives.

For the Mom Who Loves to Unwind: Spa Experiences

Zenbar Healing Studio
2983 Westoak Trails Blvd, Oakville

Treat Mom to pure relaxation at Oakville’s largest luxury day spa. This serene retreat features candlelit rooms and state-of-the- art wellness treatments, including two therapeutic halotherapy salt caves. With a variety of spa packages available, Mom is sure to leave feeling rejuvenated.
zenbarhealing.com

Spa in the Village
416 Pearl St, Burlington

Located in the charming Village Square of downtown Burlington, Spa in the Village offers luxurious Mother’s Day packages. Choose from Just for Mom, which includes an infrared sauna session, massage, customized facial, and hot stone pedicure, or Mom & Me for a shared spa day experience.
spainthevillage.ca

For the Creative Mom: Pottery & Art Classes

A pottery or paint class is a great gift idea for the mom who enjoys tapping into her creative side. Several studios in Halton Region offer single day or multi-week workshops where Mom can express herself through art.

Artventures Studios | Oakville offers a Mother’s Day pottery wheel and clay-making class for beginners.
artventuresstudios.com
Creative Insight Pottery Waterdown has one-day pottery wheel classes designed for first-timers.
creativeinsightpottery.com
Pottery N Paint Café | Burlington features canvas painting, pottery painting, and clay activities for all skill levels.
potterynpaintcafe.com

For the Cultured Mom:
A Gallery Membership Art Gallery of Burlington
1333 Lakeshore Road, Burlington

An AGB membership keeps Mom connected to the artistic community while supporting a vital creative space and cultural centre. Perks include member rates on select art classes and programs, invitations to exhibition openings and special events, Clean Space, Clear Mind We Offer Weekly, Bi-Weekly, Monthly and One Time Cleans 10% discounts at the gallery shop (excluding Art Sales & Rentals and sale items), 20% off in-person purchases of regularly priced items at Terra Greenhouses, and more!

The AGB’s mission is to provide access to art for the broader community, which includes free admission to all exhibitions.
agb.life

Art Gallery of Hamilton
123 King Street West, Hamilton

An AGH membership allows Mom to enjoy art all year long. Memberships include unlimited free admission, a 10% discount at the AGH shop and café, and special pricing on events. Until May 25th, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is hosting Helen McNicoll: An Impressionist Journey, featuring more than 60 works by one of Canada’s most celebrated historical artists.
artgalleryofhamilton.com

For the Culinary Mom: Cooking & Chocolate- Making Classes

Longo’s Cooking Classes store locations in Burlington and Oakville Perfect for the Mom who enjoys cooking, but hates the cleanup! Longo’s offers both interactive and demonstration-style cooking classes where participants create delicious meals in a fun and social setting.
longos.com

Chocolate Tales | Hamilton

For the Mom with a sweet tooth, a chocolate-making workshop is something to look forward to. She’ll learn the secrets of chocolate craftsmanship in a hands-on experience that’s as delicious as it is fun. Chocolate Tales also offers other food workshops, including sourdough bread-making and pizza making.
chocolatetales.ca

For the Theatrical Mom:
Improv & Acting Classes

Mom deserves to be in the spotlight! If she’s the type who wouldn’t mind being on stage, why not give her a little encouragement with an acting or improv workshop.

Theatre Aquarius | Hamilton
Adult acting classes for beginners and experienced performers.
theatreaquarius.org
Oakville Improv
Offers fun and engaging improv workshops designed to boost confidence and creativity.
oakvilleimprov.com

For the Nature-Loving Mom:
A Membership to the Great Outdoors

Spending time in nature is the perfect way for Mom to recharge and enjoy the beauty of the region all year long.

Royal Botanical Gardens Membership

Canada’s largest botanical garden features stunning gardens and trails. Memberships also include special yearly exhibits.
rbg.ca

Hamilton Conservation & Halton Conservation Memberships

Give Mom unlimited access to scenic trails, waterfalls, and natural parks. Perfect for the Mom who enjoys peaceful walks and outdoor adventures.
conservationhalton.ca | conservationhamilton.ca

This year, skip the flowers and “best mom ever” coffee mugs and surprise Mom with an experience she’ll truly enjoy.

By Lisa Evans

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Adventures in Gardening: Growing Your Own Food Is Fun & Fruitful

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There’s something magical about planting a tiny seed and watching it grow into something you can actually eat. And for families, an edible garden is more than just a source of fresh food — it’s quality time outside, a science lesson, and a lot of fun.

Planting season is upon us, so consider reserving space for tomatoes, zucchini, beans, lettuce, herbs, and even some berry bushes. Whether you have a backyard, a small patio, or a cozy condo balcony, there are plenty of ways to create a garden that is easy to maintain, eco-friendly, and deliciously rewarding.

If the idea of a full-fledged veggie patch feels overwhelming, consider starting small with a herb garden. A few pots of basil, parsley, or mint can provide fresh flavour for your meals and is a simple way for kids to get involved by snipping a handful of herbs for dinner. If space is tight, consider a vertical garden. Wall mounted planters or stackable pots make the most of a small area. They look great, too.

When they’ve planted, watered, and picked it themselves, even the pickiest eaters may be willing to try a fresh snap pea or red pepper.

For people with yards, raised garden beds or a dedicated vegetable patch can yield an impressive harvest. Just be sure to plan your space wisely. Some plants, like zucchini, can take over if given the chance. Trust me, it’s all fun and games until your zucchini ends up wrapped around your neighbour’s pool pump. If you’re short on space, containers along a fence line or placed on a patio are a great option. Tomatoes, peppers, and even strawberries can thrive in pots.

“Good soil is the foundation of a great garden,” says Catherine Bulow, Store Manager at Bulow Garden Centre, Oakville. “If you’re planting in the ground, enrich your soil with compost or aged manure before digging in,” she says. “In containers, use a high-quality organic potting
mix. Don’t forget to space plants according to their needs.”

Bulow stresses the importance of giving seedlings enough room to thrive. While they’re not happy when crowded, giving seedlings too much space can waste valuable growing room. “As a general rule of thumb, try to plant leafy greens closer together, while sprawling plants like cucumbers need space to spread,” she says. To keep your garden as low-maintenance and sustainable as possible, consider using self-watering containers.

Savvy gardeners have learned through trial and error that, just as humans thrive when surrounded by others we get along with, companion plants support each other. For example, tomatoes and basil thrive together, and marigolds help keep pests away.

One final tip

Don’t forget to water your garden, especially during the hot months. Add mulch to retain moisture — it does double duty by keeping pesky weeds down. Your local garden centre sells a variety of mulches, including cedar and pine, that can play a big role in protecting your garden from drought.

Watching plants grow from a seedling to a full-grown edible plant is very satisfying. If you give kids a basket or bowl for ripe veggies and berries, they’ll definitely sample sun-warmed cherry tomatoes fresh off the vine. My daughter claims she must taste the raspberries she picks for “quality control” purposes.

One of the best parts of growing your own food is watching kids connect with what’s on their plate. When they’ve planted, watered, and picked it themselves, even the pickiest eaters may be willing to try a fresh snap pea or red pepper. Gardening teaches children about the ecosystem, the privilege of fresh and nutritious food, and how patience can lead to yummy rewards.

LOCAL LINKS

Agram Garden Centre
2018 Dundas Street East,
Oakville

Bulow Garden Centre
370 South Service Road West,
Oakville

Connon Nurseries
656 Robson Road,
Waterdown
connon.ca

Terra Greenhouses
2273 Halton Regional Road 5,
Burlington
terragreenhouses.com

Sheridan Nurseries
606 Southdown Road,
Mississauga
sheridannurseries.com

By Lisa Thornbury
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Spring Fashion Finds!

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Spring is just around the corner! Shop these fashion finds, available at these fantastic local retailers.

LAKESIDE LIVIN, OAKVILLE

Get outside this spring and let the world know who you’re strolling with. Find these cute toques and lots of other baby gifts and goodies at Lakeside Livin’ in Bronte Village.
lakesidelivin.com

BOS & CO, BURLINGTON

Softinos by Bos & Co are the perfect spring/summer travelling shoe; super flexible and super soft with lightweight memory cushioning. Made in Portugal. Sold exclusively at Bos & Co.
bosandco.com

IDH CLOSET, BURLINGTON

A cozy, stylish piece that brings warmth and charm to any wardrobe. Featuring a soft, breathable knit, this sweater offers a relaxed fit that’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own. Its timeless design and versatile style make it easy to pair with everything from jeans to skirts, making it an essential for your everyday wardrobe.
idhcloset.com

MY GIRLFRIEND’S CLOSET, OAKVILLE

Find this look and many more at My Girlfriend’s Closet, an upscale consignment shop in the heart of Bronte Village!
mygirlfriendsclosetoakville.com

LINEA INTIMA, OAKVILLE

Embrace effortless elegance with Marie Jo Lingerie in a dreamy pastel blue. Adorned with vibrant floral embroidery, it captures the fresh, uplifting spirit of spring. A perfect T-shirt bra—elevated with exquisite detail and a touch of romance.
lineaintima.ca

JUS B’ GAUZE, BURLINGTON

Customize these necklaces with interchangeable cords and beads. You can create a completely unique necklace, perfect for any new spring outfit.
jusbgauze.com

INSIDE STORY, OAKVILLE

These ultra-soft P.J.Salvage PJ’s with a button front top and tie pant with contrast pink piping come with an embroidered eye mask included. Perfect for “Apres Pickleball”!
insidestory.ca

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Embrace The Heat: A Guide To Hot Peppers

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Try to picture the last time you ate something spicy. Did you immediately have a burning sensation on your tongue or did the heat slowly build over time?

An instant burst of heat was likely the work of a scotch bonnet or ghost pepper. A milder pepper, such as a jalapeno or poblano, would’ve been responsible for the latter.

According to Leith Bengtson, founder of Burlington-based hot sauce producer Fury Hot Sauce, hot peppers can have a place in everybody’s kitchens — whether you’re a spice novice or self-proclaimed chili head.

In a place like Canada, the options are truly endless.

“All of the different cultures can come together to bring different aspects of heat to the table,” says Bengtson. “We’re seeing more and more different peppers around the world being represented, from African- style peppers to Peruvian. It’s an exciting smorgasbord we all benefit from.”

For those new to the world of spice or those who already enjoy spicy food and are looking for inspiration, these tips and tricks are sure to elevate everyday dishes.

Experiment with dried peppers


There’s a significant difference between a fresh pepper and a dried pepper. “A fresh jalapeno, for instance, has a fresh and vibrant bite to it, but then you take the dried version of that jalapeno — called a chipotle —and it becomes a whole different pepper,” says Ricardo Alvarez, owner of north Burlington’s Mexican eatery, Pepe and Lela’s.

Chipotle peppers have a smoky depth of flavour, with less punchy spice than a jalapeno. At Pepe and Lela’s, Alvarez rehydrates chipotle peppers in water before blending them into a crema sauce.

Habaneros are the new jalapeno

Jalapenos are known to be the go-to pepper for people with a lower spice tolerance, but Bengtson argues that habaneros deserve morerecognition for being similarly palatable.

“Habaneros are admittedly a few steps higher in terms of heat than jalapenos, but they’ve got really nice fruity characteristics. Generally speaking, you’d find habaneros in a lot of Caribbean and West Indian-style pepper sauces.”

Bengtson encourages people to get creative with habanero- based hot sauces, beyond the typical drizzle on pizza or wings. Hot sauces are great mixed into mayo and added to a sandwich, or even in hummus to be dipped with vegetables.

Remove the seeds andalways use gloves


The seeds are responsible for the majority of a pepper’s heat. If you’re just introducing spice into your life, put some gloves on and cut out the white membrane that holds the pepper’s seeds. “You’re left with the fleshy part of the pepper and you’re able to get much more of the natural pepper flavour without as much of the heat,” says Bengtson.

You should always wear gloves when handling hot peppers, since they contain capsaicin, an oil that can cause a burning sensation on your skin if it comes into contact.

Wash your hands thoroughly after removing gloves, to ensure the pepper’s oils haven’t seeped through. The worst thing you can do is rub your eyes without clean hands.

Serve the heat on the side


When Alvarez opened Pepa and Lela’s nearly six years ago, his vision was to make spicy food more approachable to the average customer. He takes a “Mexican cuisine approach” to heat, by offering extra spicy salsas on the side. This way, people can start and measure the amount of spice they use until they get more accustomed to it.

Alvarez shares his advice for making a delicious salsa. “Offset the intensity with a dash of olive oil or something sweet. You can never go wrong with a jalapeno pineapple salsa.”

LOCAL LINKS

Fury Hot Sauce | furyhotsauce.com
Pepe and Lela’s | pepeandlelas.com
Narenj | narenjoakville.com
El Inka | elinka.ca
Spice & Saffron | spicensaffron.com
Joe’s African & Caribbean Market | joesburlington.com
The Spice Bazaar | thespicebazaar.ca

BY LAUREN MEDEIROS
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Sustainable Bridal High Fashion Comes to Hamilton: Encore Bridal Studio’s Grand Opening & Fashion Show!

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After working in both high fashion and fast fashion in Europe, South-Asia, and Canada, Sheyda Sayahi witnessed the environmental, business, and human costs plus the sheer waste of the industry and determined to do something different. She set her sight on wedding dresses, often the most expensive piece a woman buys, yet wears only once.

Sayahi announces the grand opening of Encore Bridal Studio with a Fashion Show on March 29. The elegant studio located at 62 King St E, Hamilton in the historic King John Building, has the feeling of a trip to Paris or a visit to a couturier and boasts a wide range of bridal dresses from designers as Pnina Tornai, Eva Lendel, Rita Vinieris, Vera Wang, Justin Alexander, Martina Liana, Enzoani, Lis Simon, Julian Eve, Sophia Tolli, Hayley Paige, Martin Thornburg and many more.

Costly to the planet, bridal gowns use resource-intensive materials and chemicals to make the fabrics white or cream. Sayahiexplains, “We are seeing a surge of bridal brands turning into mass producers and adopting ‘fast fashion’ methodologies to meet market demands. This means cutting costs – using cheaper labour and fabrics – and turning to synthetic materials which do not biodegrade like silks or other natural fibres – making wedding dresses potentially the most planet unfriendly item you ever own.”

Encore Bridal Studio is here to decrease the environmental (and monetary) cost of weddings with one dress at a time! Sayahi says, “I want to help reduce our carbon footprint while helping brides find their dream dress on budget.”

Sayahi believes, “Buying pre-loved doesn’t mean missing out on an exceptional and personal experience every bride deserves when shopping for her special dress.” At Encore Bridal Studio, brides experience an elegant, intimate, and private setting where they get to try on specially hand-picked dresses for them while enjoying light refreshments in the company of loved ones.

  • Today’s fashionistas are accustomed to buying pre-loved and vintage at the low and very high end – with millions shopping on sites such as The Real Real,
    Poshmark and ThredUp.
  • According to ThredUp, the resale market will be worth $350 billion by 2027.
  • A major polluter, the fashion industry creates 10% of carbon emissions and fills landfills across the world.
  • Knowing the cost to the planet caused by fashion, 40% of Generation Z shops vintage.
  • The global bridal wear market represents over $65 Billion and is expected to grow to $80 Billion in 2029 according to Bridal Wear Global Market Report 2025.
  • The Canadian Wedding Industry is valued at $5 Billion annually.
  • Ontario alone held 70,000 weddings in 2022 with an increase expected in 2025 and 2026.

Support sustainable fashion and local businesses and join Encore Bridal Studio’s Grand Opening & Fashion Show on Saturday March 29 at 7pm and be the first to view their stunning collection of pre-loved dresses at an extravagant evening that has come together through collaboration and sponsorship from local vendors and businesses as Dallas and Co. Events Agency, Special Event Rentals, Euphoria 158, Soma Bridal Boutique, Asteria Fine Wine & Imports, Starnotch Costumes, Metal to the Petal Florals, Blue Bird Blooms and many more. For the complete list of sponsors please visit Encore Bridal Studio’s Instagram page.

To book an appointment email at: admin@encorebridalstudio.com

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Laugh Your Head Off: Improv Classes May Be Just What The Doctor Ordered

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Two adults who hardly know each other are performing a murder scene at a comedy improv workshop. The man hits the woman on the head with a hammer, and she falls dramatically – so dramatically that she hurls her body through the air and lands hard, whacking her head on the leg of a table.

That woman was me. I got so into my role that I almost gave myself a concussion. While the instructor rushed off to get me some ice, my “murderer” sheepishly apologized, staring incredulously at the invisible (ie. non-existent) hammer in his hand.

As I write this, Southern Ontario is in a polar vortex and world politics are nothing to laugh about. Fortunately, there’s a cure for the blues right here in your neighbourhood.

Try some crazy fun

Studios and theatres in the Halton and Hamilton-Wentworth regions offer improv workshops for both kids and adults. Participants play games, do interactive exercises and sometimes act out scenes. The aim is to watch for the other person’s cues and respond in the moment. It’s trickier than it sounds, but the results are often hilarious.

Amy McKenzie, one of the founders of Oakville Improv Theatre Company, got into improv because it satisfied her need to perform but didn’t require “the aggressive and sometimes brutal competition” of auditions. “On the whole, the people I found who were attracted to improv were people who enjoyed collaborating, playing (like children do — without fear), and laughing,” she says. “It blew my mind.”

People from all walks of life learn improv, for myriad reasons. Those pursuing a career on stage gain valuable performance skills. For others it helps with social skills, builds courage, and brightens our mood. Improv teaches us to relax, and to be affable and fearless in front of others.

Good for what ails you

According to McKenzie, some folks sign up for improv classes because their HR people said they needed to get better at interacting with peers. And given that laughter is the best medicine, she adds, “I’ve literally had two people tell me improv was their prescription [from their doctor] to get them out of their heads, either for anxiety or depression.”

Christina Payne, founder of Improv Your Life, says many of her adult students (ages 18 to 78) have taken classes “to better themselves as a whole, to wiggle out of their comfort zones, meet new like-minded creative or funny friends, and try something that was outside the box to their usual.”

Almost anyone can do improv, as long as they’re willing to try something new. Participants should be open-minded. Some are surprised to discover that improv isn’t so much “thinking fast” as it is about slowing down and really listening to what’s going on around you. A reasonable degree of fitness also helps, since improvisers often use mime to create objects and environments and build a scene for the audience.

The Magic of Improv

“One of my favourite anecdotes is about a class we did with a group of parents and youths with autism. We were playing a game where everyone jumps in with an element to a frozen picture (or tableau) and all the students couldn’t wait to add their piece of the puzzle — except one young man who studiously stayed back and hadn’t participated for the entire class. His mother was trying to get him to leave her side, but he wouldn’t budge and seemed non-verbal.

At the last part of the game, we were building an airport. Some had jumped in as tourists, some as luggage, some as flight crew walking by. I had coached them to loudly proclaim what they were becoming, starting with the words ‘I am …’

I was just about to end the exercise because everyone had joined, when the young man boldly walked up to the stage area, lay down on the floor in a fetal position and yelled, “I am a refugee!”

Of course, all of the parents and I just gasped. It was so beautiful and a poignant addition to the picture. We thought he wasn’t paying attention, but he was deeply engaged.”

– AMY MCKENZIE,
Oakville Improv Theatre Company

A craft to master

Improv is, above all, an art form. Participants from Improv Your Life and Oakville Improv have gone on to perform at Second City, Saturday Night Live, Who’s Line is it Anyway, or to form their own improv troupes, write or perform in scripted or televised work.

As for the rest of us (who get hit by invisible hammers socially, not professionally), dabbling in the art of improv can be life-changing. It boosts confidence, teaches us to interact and collaborate with others, and feels wonderful. Best of all, it gets us in touch with our silliest and most genuine selves.

As Payne has found both as a performer andas a teacher, improv allows participants to be themselves. It’s something they can do “just for them,” she says, “not as a mother/wife/hubby/boss. Just something for them, without judgement.”

LOCAL LINKS

IMPROV YOUR LIFE
Find them on Facebook or e-mail
christina@improvyourlife.ca

OAKVILLE IMPROV THEATRE
COMPANY
2302 Bridge Road, Oakville
oakvilleimprov.com

THE STAIRCASE
27 Dundurn Street North, Hamilton
staircasehamilton.com

By Michelle Morra

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In Articles

Game On: Indoor Sports To Keep You Active All Winter

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Canadian winters have a way of making us want to curl up under a blanket, drink our body weight in hot chocolate, and hibernate until Victoria Day. But while the windchill gives us the chills, there’s no need to give up on staying active. Indoor sports are the perfect way to keep moving, have fun, and shake off the winter blahs.

Where should you go to get your game on? Here are a few local indoor sports options to keep your energy up until tank top season.

Soccer

Many recreation centres and soccer domes offer leagues for all ages and skill levels, from casual pick-up games to competitive matches. The turf is forgiving, the pace is fast, and you won’t need to dig ice chunks out of your cleats. Or why not try futsal? It’s very much like soccer but uses a smaller, low bounce ball on a hard-court surface, smaller than a soccer pitch. This fast-paced game will get your blood pumping.

oakvillesoccer.ca
oakvillefutsalclub.com

Rock Climbing

Indoor climbing gyms offer a controlled environment where you can challenge yourself on different routes, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber. Bouldering is great if you want a shorter climb without the hassle of ropes, while top-rope climbing lets you reach new heights with a little extra security. Either way, it’s a killer workout without the frostbitten fingers.

climbersrock.com

Pickleball

If you haven’t tried pickleball yet, it’s time to see what the hype is about. This fast-paced, super-addictive game is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played with paddles and a wiffle ball. The new indoor pickleball and paddle club that opened last fall in Burlington caught our attention. Blue Zone Courts co-owner Joyce Telmo-Kanti says, “Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the world, and we’re seeing players of all ages coming to our club to learn and play.

“Padel is the newest ‘cool’ sport — massive in Europe, Latin America, and Dubai, and now taking off in Canada. Big names like Lionel Messi, Rafa Nadal, and David Beckham are hooked! It’s played on a glass-enclosed court, smaller than tennis, with fast rallies and exciting game play. If tennis and squash had a baby, it would be padel. It’s easy to learn and perfect for anyone looking for a dynamic and addictive racquet sport.”

bluezonecourts.com

Golf


If you’re itching to hit the links but your local course is buried under two feet of snow, indoor golf is the next best thing. High-tech simulators let you play virtual versions of world-famous courses without worrying about wind gusts or frosty greens. Facilities with putting greens and driving ranges help you refine your short game. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your swing sharp, practice putting, and avoid spring-season rust when the outdoor courses finally open.

simulinks.ca | dundasgolf.ca | tripleeaglegolf.com | birdiesindoorgolf.ca

Tennis and Badminton

Indoor courts allow you to keep your game sharp year-round and even build new skills. Whether you’re into casual rallies or intense matches, playing indoors means no wind messing up your serve and no puddles turning the baseline into a slip-and-slide.

joshuacreektennis.ca | ymcaofoakville.org

Drop-In Basketball

Many community centres host drop-in basketball sessions where you can show off your skills or just shoot around for fun. Whether you’re looking for a casual pick- up game or just a way to burn off some energy, indoor courts offer a great escape from winter’s grip, no mittens required.

kingscourts.ca/oakville

Staying active during winter isn’t just about avoiding couch potato status — it’s about keeping your body and mind engaged. Exercise boosts endorphins, helps fight off seasonal blues, and lets you socialize while doing something fun. Plus, when spring finally arrives, you’ll be ready to jump back into outdoor activities without needing a warm-up period.

So, pick an activity, grab a friend, and go play!

By Lisa Thornbury

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