Issuu

F E B R UA RY 2 02 1

Tying The Knot

NEW BRANCH OPENING SOON!

We are thrilled to announce our newest Treasure Valley branch at the corner of Chinden and Fox Run in Meridian! Opening February 2021, this modern, full-featured branch will offer all the convenience you need and the experience you want from your bank. We are your bank for:

Real Estate Lending • Commercial Lending • Auto Loans Visa® Credit & Debit Cards • Reverse Mortgage • Personal Checking & Savings Accounts Business Checking & Savings Accounts • Business Cash Management

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All credit products subject to approval. Institution NMLS#402963

Since 1913, in good times and bad, Ford has been honored to serve the families and businesses of Boise and the Treasure Valley. Whether this has been your home for generations or you recently arrived, Lithia Ford of Boise wants you to experience a true Idaho welcome. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here for you. LithiaFordBoise.com

Where Ford begins in Idaho.

Our campuses are open. Come for a tour today!

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic classes for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Boise Bloom (208) 338-9500 5551 W. Bloom Street Boise, ID 83703

Everest (208) 846-8888 2020 W. Everest Lane Meridian, ID 83646

LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Greg Gewalt | greg.gewalt@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Planning a Summer of Love in 2021

Kimber Patterson | kimber.patterson@lifestylepubs.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kendall Houlton | kendall.houlton@lifestylepubs.com

SO MUCH OF OUR DAY-TO-DAY LIFE IN 2020 WAS UNRECOGNIZABLE FROM

AD DESIGNER

THE PREVIOUS YEAR, AND WHILE HOPE IS ON THE HORIZON, IT MIGHT BE

Whitney Lockhart

SOME TIME BEFORE WE START RETURNING TO ANY SENSE OF NORMALCY.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

How do we celebrate weddings when mass gatherings are still discouraged? How do we offer helpful advice when so much is unknown and ever-changing? Meridian Lifestyle did exactly what so many couples in the pages that follow have

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristen Larson, Julia Bennett, Kendall Houlton

done: We planned, we adjusted, and we made do. In this issue there are a lot of bright spots mixed into these pages—moments of resilience and ingenuity that give us hope for the continued success of the wedding industry in Meridian and beyond. Throughout the region, couples are adapting. This issue is filled with examples, like our recommendations for the perfect wedding venues. We also profiled one wedding planner who has arranged private elopements with a portrait session, and explored the mechanics of livestreaming the service. We also asked local wedding photographers what they look for to capture their iconic images. Find inspiration in our wedding cake and wedding ring section, helping you to decide on the best cake for your special day or the rings that will last you a lifetime.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

I want to thank you and re-emphasize the importance of supporting the local econ-

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

omy. The diverse small businesses that make up Idaho’s hospitality and wedding

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

industry need your help. I encourage everyone to book locally-based professionals,

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

shop at independent stores, and give a shout out to the vendors who serve you well.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

If creating the monthly Meridian Lifestyle magazine has taught me anything, it’s that Meridian residents find ways to survive and thrive amid a multitude of challenges. I hope this issue can help you do just that as you plan your weddings for 2021 and beyond. 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Boise photographer

Greg Gewalt, Publisher

Vlad Radion captured the intimacy

between Andrew and Lindsay at the

TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Trail Creek Cabin in Sun Valley. Radion reminisces, “Candid moments like this create an iconic image.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RADIONPHOTOGRAPHY.COM 6

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

Proverbs 3:5-6 Meridian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Meridian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Meridian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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or use the Albertsons Delivery & Pick Up App *When you spend $75 or more on Drive Up & Go™. Enter Promo Code DRIVE20 at checkout. THIS OFFER: VALID ONLY FOR 1ST TIME ONLINE GROCERY ORDERS. MUST SPECIFY DRIVE UP & GO. Not valid on orders fulfilled by Instacart. SUBJECT TO APPLICABLE SERVICE FEE. Order by 12/31/2020. Minimum $75 purchase required. Minimum purchase calculated based on subtotal of all qualifying items in cart at checkout, excluding alcoholic beverages, tobacco and fluid dairy products. Enter Promo Code DRIVE20 at checkout. LIMIT 1 PER HOUSEHOLD. May not be combined with any other free/reduced delivery or service fee offer. We reserve the right to modify or cancel offers and/or to correct typographical, pictorial and other ad or pricing errors. ALL ORDERS: Service available in select areas. In some areas, service may be provided by another Albertsons Companies store banner (that banner’s product availability, pricing and promotions will apply) or a third party service provider; or independently by Instacart (Instacart’s terms and conditions, account registration, fees, product availability, pricing and promotions apply). Online orders require a minimum purchase, unless otherwise noted. Prices for products you order online generally are higher than in Albertsons physical stores and may vary by fulfillment method chosen. Online promotions, discounts and offers may differ from those in Albertsons physical stores. Full terms at albertsonscompanies.com/about-us/our-policies/terms-of-use.html and delivery.albertsons.com/terms

INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2021

FEATURES 20 What Dreams May Come Never Marry the One You Can Live With, Marry the One You Cannot Live Without

26 Love in an Instant 6 Local Photographers Show Us What It Takes To Capture The Perfect Moment

38 Secluded Estate in a Park Setting In a Remarkable Home, Architect Trey Hoff Balances Light, Space, and Gardens with Secret Rooms and a Tunnel

42 26

42 Home Buying as a Couple Ensure Your Dreams of Home Ownership Will Come True

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Trend Setter

26 Artist’s Palette 36 Local’s Choice 38 Open House 42 Financial Buzz 44 Lifestyle Calendar 46 Hot Spot

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GOOD TIMES 1.

Rake Up Meridian Helps Out Neighbors Seniors over 65 and those with physical constraints got several helping hands as part of Rake Up Meridian. Volunteers and members of the Mayor's Youth Advisory Council raked, bagged, and helped clean up lawns across the city. PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF MERIDIAN

1. Folks in need of assistance requested help, and teams of volunteers swooped in to finish the job. | 2. No word on whether any leaf piles were leapt into. | 3. Plenty of leaf bags were required to get the jobs done. | 4. After a hard day of work, volunteers had plenty to show for it. | 5. We’re not sure we’ve ever seen a fall leaf that particular shade of safety yellow! | 6. Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council members helped out.

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Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

Ornament Drop Encourages Creativity in Art and Hiding Spots For the first time, Meridian held an Ornament Drop in December. Similar to the city's popular Art Drop event, folks created, hid, and then sought small ornaments around Downtown. PHOTOS COURTESY MERIDIAN PARKS AND RECREATION

1. Some cut ornaments cut straight to the truth. | 2. A joyous ornament seeker shows off their find. | 3. Ornaments of all shapes and sizes were on offer, like this felted fox. | 4. Hiders attached a small tag to their ornaments explaining the rules. | 5. A successful hunt! | 6. A variety of talented artists contributed, with styles ranging from simple to intricate.

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

N E S T N E S T 2021 New Arrivals have Landed! 2021 New Arrivals have Landed!

HappyChanges Changes for Everyday Happy EverydayDesigners Designers VisitOur Our Two Two Beautiful Beautiful Stores Visit Stores At the the Village Village inin Meridian NNEESSTT At Meridian TheCorner Corner Of Of Chinden And Eagle Road N NE ES ST T AtAtThe Chinden And Eagle Road WWW.THENESTBOISE.COM WWW.THENESTBOISE.COM

K-12 CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

NOW M ORE THAN EVER, W E NEED K IDS WHO CAN

THINK with depth, BELIEVE with courage, and SERVE with compassion. A recent study conducted by the University of Notre Dame on behalf of Cardus found that when compared to graduates of other types of schools, classical Christian graduates were more likely to take action against injustice, are more involved in organizations outside church, are less likely to be swayed by consensus opinion, and spend more time volunteering in their community. Go to theambroseschool.org for a link to the full study, and learn more about how a classical Christian education can help your child think with depth, believe with courage, and serve with compassion. 6100 N. Locust Grove Rd. | Meridian, ID 83646 | (208) 323-3888 | theambroseschool.org

ACCEPTING APP LICATIONS FOR 2021-22

AROUND TOWN

IDAHO'S FIRST 24-HOUR URGENT CARE CLINIC OPENS IN MERIDIAN

to a mini flower farm," Adams said in a video about

Saltzer Health opened the state’s first 24-hour

the contest. "Our number one goal is to give away

urgent care clinic in December. The new 6,400-square-foot urgent care clinic, located at 867 S. Vanguard Way, will be open 24 hours, seven days a week, year-round.

"We're going to go from a small backyard garden

5,000 bouquets in 2021."

EXTREME BOOK NERD CHALLENGE IS ON Ready to read 50 books in 50 categories? It's

“At Saltzer Health, we understand that illnesses

not too late to get started on the Meridian Library

and injuries can happen to anyone at any time,”

District's Extreme Book Nerd Challenge! If you fin-

Saltzer Vice President and Chief Medical Officer

ish, not only will you have read some great literature,

Dr. John Kaiser said in a release. "The new Ten Mile

you'll also be rewarded with prizes. To see the cat-

24-hour walk-in clinic will provide a valuable option

egories for 2021 and to register, visit mld.org/ebn

for patients seeking convenient, affordable healthcare close to home.” The urgent care team can treat colds, flu, urinary symptoms, strains, sprains, fractures, burns, and other non-life threatening issues on a walk-in basis. The Ten Mile providers can also perform IV therapy and other more complex procedures. The Ten Mile urgent care clinic is located on the first floor of a four-story medical building that will also soon house a five-modality imaging center, surgery center with five operating rooms and a procedure room, endoscopy suite, physical therapy services, and doctors’ clinics.

MERIDIAN COMMUNITY CHOIR SPREADS CHEER WITH VIRTUAL CAROLS The Meridian Chamber of Commerce formed a unique choir during the holidays. The virtual Meridian Community Choir performed two medley songs: "Let Heaven and Nature Sing" and "Tis the Season." Carolers from across the community recorded a version of themselves singing the songs, then all the videos were compiled into one choral performance. You can check out the final result on the Meridian Chamber Facebook page.

MERIDIAN FAMILY WINS A WORLD OF JOY CONTEST Cost Plus World Market announced Rochelle Adams of Meridian was the Grand Prize Winner of its A World of Joy Contest. During the pandemic, Rochelle and her twins started the Free Flowers Project to bring joy to the

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would

neighborhood through free bouquets.

love to hear from you! Contact us at Editorial@

With the $25,000 in prize money, the family plans to expand their project. 14

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

MeridianCityLifestyle.com and let us know what you think.

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TREND SETTER A GUIDE TO YOUR FOREVER JEWELRY

five things to know before choosing your wedding ring YOU’VE PUT A LOT OF THOUGHT INTO THE IDEAL ENGAGEMENT RING, AND NOW IT’S TIME TO PICK OUT THE EQUALLY-PERFECT WEDDING RING TO GO ALONG WITH IT—AND WE’VE GOT ALL THE HELP YOU’LL NEED. Before saying “I do,” check out choosing your perfect match.

gemstones that can come loose, or carvings which can trap dirt. If you’re super-active, go for platinum, which

1. Narrow Down Your Wedding Ring Choices Diamonds or gemstones, platinum or gold—narrow-

is so durable that when scratched, the metal is merely displaced and doesn’t actually wear away.

ing down your ring options may seem overwhelming. Work out these kinds of questions beforehand so you can zero in on exactly what you’re looking for, then start shopping around.

4. Size It Right Most people rarely take off their wedding bands; they wear them through summers, winters, exercise, pregnancies—all times when your fingers swell and contract

2. Consider Buying Your Ring and Your Bands Together

from heat, cold, water retention, or weight gain. To find

If you have a unique engagement ring, you may want

the right size that will best weather all of those changes,

a simple, no-fuss band, whereas a simple engagement

schedule your final ring fitting at a time when you’re calm

ring may call for the added sparkle of a diamond pavé

and your body temperature is normal. That means you

band. If you’re planning on wearing your engagement

should never finalize first thing in the morning (you retain

and wedding ring side by side, 24/7, look for a contour

water from the night before), right after you’ve exercised

or shadow band designed to interlock with the match-

(fingers swell), or when you’re extremely hot or cold

ing engagement ring. If you’re planning on wearing your

(which can cause your hands to expand and shrink).

wedding ring alone, you may want a more intricate style that will look great with or without your engagement ring.

5. Check for Quality Quality control applies to all rings, not just your wed-

3. Keep Your Lifestyle in Mind

ding bands. Make sure the ring has two marks inside

Remember: You’re going to wear this band every

the band: the manufacturer’s trademark (this proves

day, so the goal is to choose something that seam-

they stand behind their work) and the quality mark, 24K

lessly becomes a part of your life. If you play sports

or PLAT, for example (this proves the metal quality is

or an instrument, a slimmer ring with rounded edges

what the retailer says it is).

(appropriately called the “comfort fit”) may make the most sense. If you work with your hands, you may

Talk to your jeweler about finding a ring and band that

want to search for a simple, solid metal ring and avoid

works together. Photos: Simmons Fine Jewelry

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

ARTICLE GREG GEWALT

our guide on every important factor to consider when

1. Roberto Coin Dolce Eternity Ring with Hearts On Fire Transcend Diamond Band. | 2. A Simmons Fine Jewelry Custom piece featuring Rose Gold and Peach Sapphire and Diamonds. | 3. Platinum Shared Prong Wedding Set by JB Star. | 4. Roberto Coin Double Symphony Golden Gate Ring | 5. Precision Set Platinum Oval Engagement Ring. | 6. Hearts On Fire Juliette Three Stone Oval Halo Engagement Ring CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

what dreams may come

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

ARTICLE KRISTEN LARSON

WE D D I N G 20

“NEVER MARRY THE ONE YOU CAN LIVE WITH, MARRY THE ONE YOU CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT.” – UNKNOWN WHEN ONE FINDS TRUE LOVE, THERE’S ALSO A DESIRE TO JOIN TOGETHER IN A WAY THAT HONORS THIS LOVE. Weddings have long represented this union. Weddings tend to make one reflect upon new beginnings and nects not only each other, but also new friends and family. Most of us have attended weddings (perhaps we’ve even had one or two of our own), but what is it that makes one wedding more memorable than another? There seems to be a host of converging factors; perhaps it is a unique venue or season, an

events. I got into weddings specifically when we

intimate ceremony or a giant fete, or maybe a

moved to Boise in 2014, and from there it has just

sprinkle of festivity and celebration. Yet, there is

taken off.

one often overlooked important piece in the nuptial’s equation: a wedding planner. Erin Olson of Dreamer Events knows a thing or two about making a wedding memorable. Olson recalls, “I started doing this [wedding planning] unpaid, long before I was getting paid

Drawing upon her years in color guard and the dance/flag team for marching band in high school, Olson channeled this early passion of dance into coaching, coordinating, and choreography for fifty girls – and their families – which also included traveling, scheduling, and organizing.

for it. Whether it was with family and friends or

Says Olson, “That is where my organizational

through different church and school projects, I

aspect for group things kind of started.” Perhaps

was always drawn into organizing and putting on

coaching isn’t part of the traditional ropes a wedding planner takes to earn her wedding badges, but her experience has proved invaluable in keeping all systems go during a ceremony. Olson laughs, “I figured once you can manage ‘band moms’, you could pretty much take care of anybody.” After working on different weddings and events for friends, Olson’s good friend started a wedding business in Boise and encouraged Olson to join her in Idaho. Olson explains, “I thought about how much I love people and weddings and organizing, and thought it would be a perfect fit for me.” Once making the move, Olson quickly settled into the Treasure Valley and brought her gifts and talents with her. Using her ability to incorporate each client’s unique needs and desires, Olson shares her eye for detail along with her vision for creating special moments.

CONTINUED >

PL ANNER

honor old traditions. A wedding binds and con-

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

WHAT DREAMS MAY COME (CONTINUED)

“It’s interesting how certain weddings stick with you. We get to plan for a lot of different cultures when it comes to weddings, so we meet a lot of different people, from different backgrounds.” Olson continues, “We had a family that was able to coordinate their religion into the wedding and all different aspects on the three-day journey that we took with them. You can see this couple in love – but who also love their family’s history and honoring the traditions that embody who they are - it was more than just the wedding day. It was more about joining these two families together.” And though weddings are generally complicated affairs, fraught with many moving parts and pieces, one aspect is steadfast with Olson: being resilient. And resiliency in 2020 and 2021 has proven to be more than a commendable trait. It is an absolute necessity. Though not an invited guest, Covid-19 seems to have decided to crash many a wedding plan recently. The impact of postponed weddings during a pandemic has not only greatly affected the wedding industry, but has taken an emotional toll as well. Reverting into coach mode has been a boon for Olson to help calm and redirect many a frazzled bride. Says Olson, “This year has definitely hit the wedding

Technology as been an additional tool to combat pandemic woes.

This unexpected blessing allows

industry. Differently and emotionally. Our main goal is to

options like live-streaming for guests who are unable

help educate our clients on all of their options, to be able

to make the wedding.

to help them make the best decisions for them, and for their family and friends.”

Olson describes its usage, “We’ve turned to live-streaming for those family members and friends

This has included weddings that look a little different

who are not comfortable coming to gatherings. This

than ceremonies of the past. Olson adds, “We’ve done

has been a huge success for them and for the couple

the ‘mini-monies,’ elopements. We’ve done hundred-plus

because it feels like people can still partake and par-

weddings and ten and under weddings, all during Covid-

ticipate and not miss the event. Our goals are to keep

19. So, we have really seen the span of it.”

things special, even in the midst of Covid-19.”

In order to maintain health and safety protocols, but

Now that Covid-19 has become more of a familiar

also make sure each couple was able to fully enjoy their

presence Olson has been able to continue wedding

event, required some creative measures, something the

planning in stride, including advice for anxious brides

former coach and organizer deftly resolved with some

and grooms to be.

quick-thinking ingenuity.

Olson remarks, “My best advice is – and I try to tell this

Says Olson, “We really needed to make sure that each

to our couples – educate yourself. Don’t just go off of a

aspect of the families is covered. Things like spacing out

dollar amount. Talk to vendors. Ask for referrals and rec-

familial seating, creating ceremony seating in clusters.

ommendations. And most importantly, ask friends and

We used a colored-wristband system; red: do not

family what worked and what didn’t. What they wished

touch, yellow: getting closer but maintaining space and

they would have done. We have a bunch of clients who

not hugging, and green; good for a hug.”

would love to talk to other clients, so we have a list of people who are willing to have that honest conversation about what was so great about having a planner.” One more helpful note: “We save people time, money, and most importantly, stress.” For more information, go to DreamerEvents.com

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

A QUIET PARADISE NESTLED IN DOWNTOWN STANLEY, ID. The Stanley High Country Inn is the perfect year round destination for solitude, peace and rustic charm. The Inn provides an outstanding winter brunch from January- April. Come soak in our beautiful hot tub, and experience the charming, adventurous, and quaint life of downtown Stanley.

WWW.STANLEYINN.COM

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

Call 208-854-1877 viewpointwindows.com

Time to get 2020 out of your carpet and home! Ring in 2021 the Right Way- Clean!

For all your 2021 deep cleaning needs, call 208.383.1000 or Book Online at zerorezboise.com, use promo code BL21 CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

ARTIST’S PALETTE

LOVE IN AN INSTANT HOW MANY PHOTOGRAPHS ON THE FIREPLACE MANTEL ARE FROM A WEDDING DECADES AGO, OR JUST YESTERDAY? Regardless of time, they convey the same image - that of a loving couple getting married. Wedding photography is the fine art of capturing happiness and memories. Weddings are planned months ahead, sometimes years, and when the special day arrives, the plans have evolved into picture perfectness. However, the best images convey effortlessness and shine with the spontaneity of emotions that match the unforgettable day of a wedding. When a couple profess undying love and commitment, that love is reflected in the pose that is taken. The folding back of the veil, a tender kiss, and the loving gaze into each other’s eyes are only some of the hallmark photos during a wedding.

It’s often the meaningful

moments in between that capture the magic between a couple. Here you’ll find six local artists/ photographers showcasing their most iconic images.

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

6 LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOW US WHAT IT TAKES TO CAPTURE THAT SPECIAL MOMENT

WEDDING ARTICLE KENDALL HOULTON

WEBSITE: JENNYLOSEE.COM IG: @JENNYLOSEE_

JENNY LOSEE

When shooting a memorable image, it isn’t really one image I look to capture; it’s a story of the entire photo shoot and the sweet moments that unravel in the in-between. I love to have an idea of the composition, lighting and framing weeks before. I’ll choose a location that sings with beauty, pre-plan as much as I can in order to have one less thing to think about, and be fully present with the couple when shooting. I usually will give the couple an ‘action,’ and observe

how they tell it in their own unique way while also thinking, ‘How can I make this art?’ This series of images represent iconic wedding imagery because it has the foundation for a good shoot: amazing location, beautiful dress, gorgeous couple. The key is the magic in those photos: the mood it provokes and the creative element.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

BRIDES ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

W E B S I T E : W W W. K E N D R A - E L I S E .C O M IG: @KENDR AELISEPHOTO

These photos were taken in summer of 2019 at my Valley, Idaho. These photographs highlight the pure fun and joy of this destination wedding. It truly captures the day for the couple and their family as it was very important to the couple to include their children in the wedding ceremony and celebration. It also showcases that wedding photography does not have to be stiff or boring! I [enjoy] capturing real joyful moments in a natural and timeless way.

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

KENDRA ELISE

favorite wedding venue, Trail Creek Cabin, in Sun

W E B S I T E : H E A T H E R J A M E S I M A G E R Y.C O M IG: @HE ATHER.JAME S.IMAGERY

was actually taken on a trampoline but the trampo-

line was edited out! Sometimes you have to create a little magic too! I love this photo because it captures

the excitement and joy of the day so well. Love is all about the highs and the lows and what better way

HE ATHER JAMES

PHOTOGRAPHY

Weddings are all about capturing magic. This image

to show that then bouncing on a trampoline! This couple had so much spunk and I think this image captures that perfectly.

Bridal portraits are some of my favorite photos. It’s a

chance to capture the beauty of the bride, her dress, her flowers, that feeling she’s experiencing right

before she becomes a wife. I love this image for the

profile angle. I like to think she was looking over and thinking of all that was ahead of her, all that love she’s

in, all the day was bringing. The snow was a huge perk too--nothing says romance like some snow!

Candid shots are the best! This photo was taken during a love battle of the cake. It brought me so much joy to snap this perfectly timed moment and my clients loved it as well! Photography is all about capturing those candid moments and letting the love unfold before your eyes and solidifying it forever in a creative way. Part of love is playfulness and I feel this photo gushes of it. There’s no better way to have some fun at your wedding than a smash of cake!

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

SPECIAL M ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

W E B S I T E : C A R L I A N D B E A U .C O M IG: @C ARLIANDBE AU

Our entire brand and style is based on really focusing on getting that 1 or 2 key shots. We love epic locations, beautiful golden light and something that just makes you stop and say, “Wow.” We recommend to all of our couples to take a few minutes away on their wedding are alway the favorites! We want to create an image that you will want to blow up and put on the wall. These images each represent an iconic wedding shot because they are ones that can be beautiful art pieces in the home to display your love story. The black and white image is the moment in time where you just became husband and wife. It’s one of my favorite parts of every single wedding; you cannot fake those smiles and that emotion!

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

CARLI AND BEAU

day to get creative and adventurous and those images

MOMENTS W E B S I T E : W E S T L U N D P H O T O G R A P H Y.C O M IG: @WE S TLUNDPHOTOGR APH Y

to remember their wedding day. An iconic shot should remind the viewer what it felt like to be present in that moment and evoke the same emotions they felt. As artists, we believe an iconic image is made up of the relationship between three things: lighting, location, and emotion. The composition should be intentional in regards to the subjects and their relationship to the location. For these images, the relationship between the subjects and location are accentuated by the use of interesting lighting.

CONTINUED >

AUBRE Y WESTLUND

Every bride and groom deserves memorable images

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

ARTIST’S PALETTE (CONTINUED)

Not everyone wants to or is able to get

W E B S I T E : R A D I O N P H O T O G R A P H Y.C O M IG: @R ADIONPHOTOGR APH Y

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

Many of our couples in 2020 resorted eloping somewhere remote. During this couple’s first kiss, I couldn’t help but notice how delicate and sweet their relationship was. At the end of the day, these iconic moments will not only capture my couple’s beauty but also their emotions and their love toward each other.

When I photograph couples, it’s not all about the best photos; it’s about capturing how my couples feel and their overall experience. Number one key in creating memorable images is having a strong connection with the couple. From the initial meeting to delivering the final product, it’s all about building a strong relationship. In order to create an iconic image, it all starts with a relationship and a few awkward jokes.

Weddings typically have a hectic schedule and there’s not much time to relax and take in the day. Subtle, candid moments like this make a print-worthy, iconic image. These are my favorite moments; it doesn’t have to be anything staged.

V L A D R A D I O N

MARRIAGE

married surrounded by hundreds of people.

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EXPLORE YOUR ADVENTUROUS SIDE. With Idaho’s only trifecta of a mountain, meadow, and lake at your doorstep, there’s no better place to explore your adventurous side and enjoy all the benefits of being a cherished guest at a luxurious all-season resort. Whether your winter passion is skiing or snowboarding through hip-deep powder or cruising on long groomed runs, make sure Idaho’s newest and finest 3,600-acre winter playground is in your plans. WE’D LOVE TO HAVE YOU VISIT US AT TA M A R A C K I D A H O . C O M

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let them eat cake! SMALL WEDDING CAKES

WHEN IT COMES TO “I DO,” IT’S DIFFICULT TO IMAGINE A WEDDING RECEP-

Photo: Leslie Charles Events

TION WITHOUT A SWEET DESSERT TO

Small wedding cakes can certainly

COMMEMORATE THE CELEBRATION.

make a grand statement if towering

According to Leslie Charles, the owner of

tiers and extravagant sugar flowers

Leslie Charles Events, the reason most

aren’t your thing. Plenty of couples (and

couples still choose to serve cake at their

their caterers) find inventive ways to

reception is due to tradition.

make small wedding cakes stand out.

“The traditional cakes I used to make when I first started baking 40 years ago were meant to feed all 300 people at the wedding,” Charles said. “I think the tradition is moving from that, but most couples still feel they should have at least a small cake.” Bakers from across Boise agree that the first few steps a couple should take when ordering their wedding cake is to consider their wedding size and venue, their favorite flavors, and their own personal style. “By the time a couple is looking for a wed-

CLASSIC WEDDING CAKE

Photo: Cakes by Blythe

ding cake, they usually have a pretty good

If you’re a classic bride looking for

sense of how they’re envisioning their wed-

classic elements, these are the wed-

ding,” said Blythe Forman, owner of Cakes by

ding cakes for you. Be it a white cake

Blythe, “so I encourage them to look at many

or a piped cake, these cakes give a

photos to figure out what they want so they

grand feeling to your reception.

can find a baker who is the perfect match.” The average cost of a wedding cake in the Treasure Valley is $2.50 to $5 per serving. The cost of the cake can be affected by flavor, the intricacy of design, type of frosting, ingredients, customizations, delivery fees, and the time the baker puts into making the cake. If you plan to get married at the height of the wedding season, the sooner you order your cake, the better. Boise-area bakers recommend ordering your cake at least six

FRESH FLOWERS

months in advance, and some take orders up

Photo: Cakes by Blythe

to a year in advance.

If you can’t get enough fresh flowers, you may want to have this style wedding

ARTICLE JULIA ANN BENNETT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

cake. These cakes are usually tall, multi-tiered cakes with cascading flowers.

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Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

ARCHITECTS ADD ENORMOUS VALUE, WHETHER FROM MAXIMIZING LIGHT AND SPACE, ADDING FUNCTIONALITY, OR ACHIEVING THE BEST RETURN ON YOUR INVESTMENT ARTICLE GREG GEWALT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

ARCHITECTURE IS BOTH A SCIENCE AND AN ART. An accredited design professional is necessary to create a one-of-a-kind space that combines practical layouts with your personal and unique style. Working with a design team from beginning to end transforms the experience of building a home into a creative process that transcends the imagination. That’s the case of this unique Meridian home designed by architect Trey Hoff. Perched above the Boise River, this custom home represented by Realtor April Rinehart was designed to take advantage of the Eagle Valley views and the morning sun with eastern exposure. Architects apply both impartial and creative thinking to projects large and small. They add enormous value, whether from maximizing light and space, adding functionality, or achieving the best return on your investment. Builder Brian Visser’s attention to detail along with Hoff’s design helped to create the open 9,877 square foot interior featuring a dramatic pivot entry door, Jerusalem stone, mahogany cabinets, wood double-pane windows, secret rooms, and even a tunnel. The nearly 5 acres of this unique estate are completely landscaped to create a sense of well-being in a resort style garden that includes a pond, pool and spa, walking paths with a bridge, and trees that create a park setting. The best view in Meridian is widely considered to be from the rim overlooking Eagle Valley, the Boise River greenbelt, and the mountain range of Shafer Butte and Bogus Basin. This is one of the most popular places to settle in the community of Meridian. With its scenic views and peaceful lifestyle, the residents of this neighborhood know this is a gem of a location that is hard to rival in the Treasure Valley. For more information: AprilRinehart.com

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

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CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

FINANCIAL BUZZ

ARTICLE GREG GEWALT

HOME BUYING AS A COUPLE

ENSURE YOUR DREAMS OF HOME OWNERSHIP WILL COME TRUE

IF YOU AND YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER HOPE TO BUY A HOME TOGETHER, IT’S IMPORTANT TO GO IN WITH YOUR EYES OPEN. “Couples often go house shopping first before they even think about the mortgage,” said Suzi Boyle of Castle & Cooke Mortgage. “But that’s like getting married before your first date!” “When a couple purchases a home together, lenders assess the couple’s ability to purchase jointly,” explains Boyle. “One person’s credit or income could affect the couple’s ability to qualify for a mortgage at all.”

So before you start hitting open houses, there are some questions you can ask of each other, similar to those from a lender. HOW MUCH DEBT DO YOU HAVE? If you’ve never talked about debt, brace for some surprises potentially the bad kind. Any credit card debt you’re carrying will show up once you undergo the pre-approval process for a mortgage: car loans, personal loans, and even child support obligations. All this matters because of your debt-to-income ratio—that’s a number your lender will look at to decide if you can afford to pay back a loan. The lender will add up all your monthly debts and divide them by your combined monthly income. To qualify for a mortgage, that number cannot be over 43%, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, but ideally should be under 36%. WHAT’S YOUR CREDIT SCORE? Your credit score is a number that represents how well you’ve paid off past debts. As lenders see it, that number shows how likely it is that

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

you’ll make your mortgage payments in the future. A

WHO OWNS (AND IS PAYING FOR) WHAT?

low credit score could disqualify you from getting a

You should talk about who is going to be respon-

loan, or it could mean you won’t get the best rates.

sible for how much of the payment. Are you going

Both you and your partner will have your own credit

to split it 50-50? How much can each of you afford?

score; even for married couples, they’re not combined.

You should also talk about whether both of your

You can get a free copy of your credit report at

names will be on the title, which is the legal doc-

AnnualCreditReport.com. A credit score over 700

ument proving you own the property. If you’re both

is ideal. The minimum credit score required for a

contributing to payments, you absolutely want both

mortgage among most lenders is around 660.

people on the title.

HOW MUCH MONEY DO YOU HAVE FOR A

WHAT HAPPENS IF WE BREAK UP?

DOWN PAYMENT? Ideally, the two of you will be able to put 20% down

We know you don’t want to think about it. But in case of a split, you should have a plan in place.

on a property. That’s a big chunk of change: On a

One recommendation is putting together a contract

$500,000 home, a 20% down payment is $100,000, and

specifying what would happen to the equity and who

you’ll need to pay closing costs, which can be anywhere

is responsible for the payment in case the relationship

from 2% to 7% of the purchase price of the home.

ends. Other considerations include, if one person

Where is all this money going to come from? Your

contributed more to the down payment or pays more

down payment can come from sources such as sav-

of the monthly mortgage payment. Will that person

ings, a gift from a family member, or part of a retire-

retain a bigger share of the equity, or will you split

ment account that you can cash in. (The latter is not

things equally?

ideal and can have tax implications.) Another option is, you can put down less—but then you’ll be required to pay an extra monthly fee

Nobody likes to talk about breaking up, but having these conversations before something happens will protect both of you.

called PMI, or private mortgage insurance.

CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

monthly meetings! Join them to

PAINT 'N SLURP

MERIDIAN SYMPHONY GALA

community

7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, Initial Point

abuse

3rd Street

Gallery, Meridian City Hall, 33 E.

to follow their work or learn more,

Try your hand at creating a cute lady-

Broadway Ave.

visit meridianmadc.org to view the

bug painting, all while enjoying some

Celebrating its 30th anniversary sea-

meeting minutes and browse other

delicious sips. Visit venmo.com/

son with “For the Love of It,” featuring

important information.

theangryeasel for tickets.

a reception, appetizers and drinks,

The Angry Easel Paint Parties, 301 E.

ensemble performances, Kings of

Swing, plus a wine raffle, silent auc-

GIRLS DAY OUT EXPO

$25 at meridiansymphony.org. No

tion and other festivities. Sponsored by the Meridian Arts Commission. tickets sold at door. 208-891-2721.

Galaxy Event Center, 1385 S. Blue

learn about the coalition and how they're working to strengthen the through

prevention.

substance you'd

20 HIDDEN LANGUAGES: A DIGITAL SEASON IN 5 MOVEMENTS Virtual

Ballet Idaho has taken to the digital

Marlin Lane

Join in on this day dedicated to women! You'll enjoy a unique, intimate, and festive shopping experience where you can sip, browse, and shop for hours. There are more

stage for this season. Produced in

GIRLS DAY OUT EXPO

premieres, behind-the-scenes con-

partnership with FrontRunner Films, a subscription includes eleven world

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Galaxy

tent, and never-before-seen archival

than 75 exhibits displaying beauti-

Event Center at Wahooz, 1385 S. Blue

footage. To purchase a subscription,

ful handcrafted jewelry, sweet and

Marlin Lane, Meridian

visit balletidaho.org/20-21season

savory treats, arts, apparel, beauty

More than 75 exhibits displaying hand-

products and services from local

crafted jewelry, local sweets and savo-

businesses. To register for this

ries, arts, crafts, boutique businesses,

visit iblevents.com/

home decor, apparel, beauty products

free

event,

girls-day-out-expo

and services from around the Treasure Valley. Free. 208-376-0464, iblevents.

com/girls-day-out-expo

24 CREATING SHADE GARDENS Virtual

Join the Idaho Botanical Garden to explore what to do on the north

GAMES WORKSHOP SPECIALIST GAMES DAY Phoenix Fire Games, 44 E.

and east sides of buildings, or

DUELING PIANOS LIVE!

Lesica will provide tips on plant

areas shaded by trees and shrubs. IBG Horticulture Director Michele

Homestead Bar and Grill, 6275 N.

selection, design elements, soil

Idaho Miniature Wargamers invite

Linder Road, Ste 100

preparation, and watering. Register

you to come on down and play

Jason and company will be bring-

some Games Workshop minia-

ing the pianos, tunes, and fun to

event/creating-shade-gardens

tures games. Pay $5 and play a

Homestead with their dueling pianos!

Fairview Avenue

idahobotanicalgarden.org/

game, and you’re entered to win a raffle for store gift cards. If you play a demo game or game from Games line

Workshops

including:

Specialist

Bloodbowl,

Kill

Team, Warcry, or Underworlds/ Beastgrave/Nightvault, you'll receive an extra raffle ticket.

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

18 MERIDIAN ANTI-DRUG COALITION (MADC) MEETING

Would you like to get in touch

Meridian Police Department, 1401 E.

from you! Contact us at Editorial@

Watertower Street

MeridianCityLifestyle.com and let us

Everyone is welcome at MADC

know what you think.

with us? We would love to hear

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KNOWLEDGE

C R E AT I V I T Y

EXPERIENCE

P UT YO U R C IT Y O N O U R MAP. Start a magazine & build a legacy. Life is short. Love what you do.

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CityLifestyle.com/Meridian

HOT SPOT THROUGHOUT HISTORY, HOT SPRINGS HAVE BEEN USED TO HEAL THE BODY

ARTICLE KENDALL GEWALT PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VISIT IDAHO

WA R M WATE R TH E R A PY LOOKING FOR A NATURAL WAY TO GET YOUR JOINTS MOVING? Close the medicine cabinet and try an age-old remedy that has stood the test of time: heat. Hot water therapy is an alternative therapy recognized for temporary pain relief of ailments such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle and joint pain, fibromyalgia, and aches and discomfort following exercise. Here is how it works. When you warm up a sore

+ Take advantage of the warm water to try some gentle stretching. The flexibility benefits last after you leave the water, so add a

joint or tired muscle, your blood vessels get bigger.

few additional stretches right after you soak.

This allows more blood, oxygen, and nutrients to

+ After you’ve stretched, you might want to try some simple hot

be delivered to the injured tissues. Better circula-

water exercises. The buoyancy of the water will take some of the

tion means more relaxation for those stiff muscles

pressure off your joints while adding resistance.

and joints.

+ Stay hydrated. Make sure to drink some water before entering

Hot springs, a hot bath, or hot tub can improve

the hot springs or hot tub and keep a bottle of cold water nearby

the quality of sleep, increase circulation, and man-

as you soak.

age pain – and research shows that making time

+ Consult your physician before starting your hot water therapy

for a daily soak can be good for body aches and

routine. Begin gradually, doing what you are comfortable with on

muscle or joint discomfort.

a given day.

Joint inflammation from arthritis causes swell-

For the convenience of having your own private hot spring,

ing, pain and stiffness, often resulting in the loss

consider a home-based hot tub. You can customize a routine

of joint movement or function and making exercise

of warm water therapy and immersive movement to meet your

difficult and uncomfortable. Immersion in warm

wellness needs. Spas provide soothing warm water and buoy-

water produces hydrostatic pressure on the body

ancy that release tension and improve your quality of life. These

that results in reduced joint inflammation – loos-

benefits and more can help those affected by arthritis.

ening joints, reducing pain and increasing mobility. Twenty minutes of hot water therapy at the beginning and end of each day can help reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis, sore muscles and increase mobility. To make the most of your time, keep these tips in mind:

+ Get warmed up. When starting out, make water temperature around 100°F

Meridian Lifestyle | February 2021

Visit one of Idaho’s 130+ hot springs at VisitIdaho.org or stop by Snake River Pool & Spa to explore your options to set up your own private hot tub. Learn more about Idaho Arthritis Facts on the Arthritis Foundation Idaho Advocacy website page: Arthritis.org

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