Say I Do

The magic of the day, the love in the air, the pretty people, the makeup, the hair. The handsome men, the tears of joy, the laughter, the memories made. It’s wedding season, and it will be here before we know it. We LOVE weddings. Who’s excited?

Since one third of engagements happen between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, Spring is when couples are looking for a place to day I do. I just have to say, a wedding under the Alberta sky is gorgeous anywhere it is. The colors that paint the perfect portrait are astonishing. Why not add the Rocky Mountains to it. They never disappoint.

Your wedding is a celebration of the first day of your marriage, a new life built on love. It unites two beautiful souls to take on this crazy world together. What is more exciting than that? That is why weddings are so magical, and that is why we love them.

Being in the wedding business I see so many different couples. Each brought together at different times of their lives and each just as beautiful as the next. I am always thrilled to meet each couple and I love listening to their stories and their dreams for the future. I feel the love. Since everything beautiful runs on love I am always filled with happiness and joy after each wedding consult.

Choosing your wedding location is a huge deal. We get that! It sets the stage for the atmosphere you want to bring to your wedding day. At The lodge at Panther River your wedding is about celebrating you, your love, your memories, and your future. We tailor make your wedding package to suit your style and the fantasies you had as a little girl.

Your wedding planning will kick off with a personal meet and greet consultation with our Wedding Coordinator. She will give you a tour of our beautiful wilderness resort so you can get a taste of what is to come for your special day. Our Wedding Coordinator will be by your side through every step of planning your wedding. This bring ease and comfort to couples to have a professional assist with all the fine details from your wedding ceremony to cutting your cake.

At The Lodge at Panther River we work closely with our exclusive wedding vendors to bring some of the best that Alberta has to offer. Starting off with make-up and hair brought to you by Faces by Nathalie. Nicole Wade Photography will capture every special moment with her exquisite eye for detail. Nothing will be missed.

Flowers are happy things. Bring more joy to your wedding day with an assortment of stunning flower options from Willow Flower Co. These ladies know how to bring elegance and style to your decor and bouquets.

Your wedding guests will be talking about your reception meal for months, brought to by The lodge at Panther River’s Farm to Fork Kitchen. We customize our reception menu to suit every couple’s taste.

Who likes to party? Or do you like to have a relaxed atmosphere? With over 15 years of experience DJ Rico will meticulously work with us to customize and plan your wedding entertainment for your exact needs. He ensures your wedding surpasses all of your expectations.

You are probably thinking ‘this is all wonderful, but will there be cupcakes?” The answer is YES! Roxanne Franczak and Sweet Delights will hit your sweet tooth in the right spot. This cake diva doesn’t just make cupcakes she makes everything right up too elaborate wedding cakes. From chocolate sin to sophisticated diva she has a cake flavour to suit everyone’s palate.

All of this will be happening with help of Special event rentals. From wedding tents to decor these guys have us cover.

Since we are a one stop wedding shop all of these vendors will be booked through your wedding coordinator. You only have the decisions to make and she will put your plan into action.

Creating your dream is up to you, making it reality is up to us

At The lodge at panther River we don’t want you to have just an ordinary wedding. We love to bring special touches to make each couple’s day unique. Arrive to your ceremony in a horse drawn carriage, or load up the whole bridal party in our covered wagons.

Have a wedding meant for your dreams and say I do on top of the world. Fly you and your guests to a remote location by helicopter. Yes, this dream can be reality. It can’t get more memorable than that.

So what are you love birds waiting for?! Drop us a line and inquire about Your Panther River Wedding.

And for all you men crazy in love, I hope she says yes!

Spring is in the air

Think of water flowing down the river valley and the smell of earth as the snow melts. It’s an exciting feeling. The birds will chirp, the grizzly’s will roam, and we will start to see new fawns springing across meadows. Can you say pretty bird?

Spring is almost here and we can feel it in the air. As the sun warms up we get spring fever. I dream of days spent on mountain tops and evenings with my feet in the river.

To celebrate leaving winter behind we have a special offer for you to wake up in the Mountains to Spring Equinox

Our First Day of Spring Sale is for the night of March 19th 2016. Get $40 off your cabin and give a warm welcome to Spring in the mountains with us.

To make your reservation call The Lodge at 1 844 563 4377

So tell me, do you have Spring Fever yet?

Namasteed

The Fire Within… Her

Izzy’s yoga teachings come from a strong sense of awareness and deep body work experience. Her voice guides you through a safe and fluid practice, anchoring your soul to the movement of your physical being. It is so deep. You have to experience it, at least once. She needs to share this gift!

When Izzy reached out and asked if she could bring her magic to The Lodge it was an instant YES!… OOOOH YES! She is teaming up with Stephanie Cullen with Blissful Energy Yoga to bring you the ultimate girlfriend weekend!

We are calling on all adventuresome Yoginis and Cowgirls of all ages and abilities to invited you to join us for this all-inclusive, fun filled weekend of health, wellness and relaxation centered on horseback riding, gentle yoga, healthy farm to fork gourmet dining, and deep relaxation along the Panther River.

What is included in your retreat:
– Welcoming mimosas!
– Rustic and quaint log cabin accommodations.
– 3 Farm to Fork gourmet meals per day.
– Gentle yoga practices.
– Meditations amongst breathtaking scenery.
– Horseback riding with trail boss.

Bringing these two incredible ladies together to share what they love will be so powerful you can not miss this! You do not need to be a yogi or a cowgirl to attend! Come, put yourself out there, something beautiful will come if it, I promise.

For more information check out:

NAMASTEED: Yoga & Horse Back Riding Retreat

To book your spot call Izzy at 403 636 0794

NAMASTEED

Escape With The Happy Hippie

I was in need of something. I just didn’t know it. As I was scrolling through my phone something quickly caught my eye. It was a photo of the most gorgeous, empowering women I have ever seen. I instantly thought…who is that?? Obviously intrigued I read more…Freda Lundberg – The Happy Hippie. She was doing a mala making workshop at my friends yoga studio in my home town. I had to go. Luckily there was a spot left open. I took it.

I was pumped. I get to spend 4 hours in a studio learning from this fascinating women, and I hadn’t even met her yet. Arriving at the studio I was greeted in the usual way, with the hugest glowing smile and a feeling full of love. I settled in on my mat full of excitement. Freda – she did not disappoint. The moment she opened her mouth to introduce herself and what she does I felt humbled, refreshed and positive that this mala making workshop was just what I needed. I knew she had to do a retreat with us.

I finally had time to contact Freda and as soon as she answered her phone we were instant friends. She has a light about her you that draws you in. A busy mom and wife who leads an amazing lifestyle and still runs the business of her dreams. How do you find that balance? I have learnt from her that it’s all within you, she will teach us. We spent an hour on the phone and decided we were going for it. We met for lunch, learnt about each other, shared juicy life stories, and hashed out the details.

Have you ever wondered what those beautiful, long, beaded necklaces are that so many yogi’s wear? Those are mala’s. Freda will dive deeper than ever before into teaching her students about their origins, how to use them in meditation and everyday life. The workshop will start off with a deep chakra balancing. Don’t know what chakra’s are? That’s ok! That is what this workshop is about – learning. We will even get to make our own mala’s and learn about chakras and gemstones associated with these energy centres.

As a special offer, for the first time ever Freda will show us and share her recipes for her amazing all-natural spa products. We will even be using them and taking some home! What else can the Happy Hippie do? You will have to join us to find out!

One of the most empowering things about taking part in a retreat is building friendships and having soul-full discussion. We will be doing this while enjoying the wild beauty that The Lodge at Panther River has to offer. We will be indulging in whole foods made for you in house from Panther River’s farm to fork kitchen. Does it get much better than that?

Since this retreat is held on mother’s day weekend we have designed the schedule to focus on empowering women. You do not need to be a mom to attend. We want to bring women from all walks of life together to escape, balance, and empower.

I bet you’re so excited and want to know how much this incredible weekend will be. We have a special price for this weekend only! We will not have this getaway this low again!

The cost of the retreat includes your accommodations, all your nourishing meals, both workshops with the Happy Hippie, and all of the surprises along the way. Prices vary on cabin occupancy. You can’t beat this price!

So what are you waiting for?! Call the girls, call your mom, come solo, or give a gift and meet us in the wild for an unforgettable weekend of empowering women.

Check out Happy Hippie Jewelry on instagram and facebook.

For more information on Empowering Women Retreat or to reserve your spot call 1 844 563 4377 or email info@pantherriver.wpengine.com.

Mountain Love

Be excited everyone! This year Valentines day and family day are in the same weekend! There is so much excitement I can hardly handle it!

Not everyone is a fan a V day. People get all upset that all it is about is this day to spend money on chocolate, cards, flowers… you name it. But why can’t we just put that negative mind set aside and see Valentine’s day for what it actually is? A day to Love. You don’t have to “be in love” to enjoy this day. You don’t have to spend money on flowers, or gifts to enjoy it either. What is important is showing love for someone….or something. Love is what makes this life beautiful, so find something you love and that is how you should spend your V day. This Valentine’s day I am going to be sharing my love for the mountains.

At The Lodge at Panther River family is so important to us. That is what makes this year’s February 14th weekend so special to us….. it combines Valentine’s day and Family day in one weekend….I know, exciting, right?! We are teaming up with Healing Hand Wellness and Yoga to bring you the very first Family Valentine’s Weekend at The Lodge. With such great specials you won’t want to miss this!

Spending time in the backcountry is always good for the soul, so why not share that with someone special. Whether it be your spouse, your sister, your friends, or your kids we have specials on packages to suit your getaway. Book any of our cabins for two nights and get the third night half off! We have made all inclusive packages, so you just have one price to pay…..and you don’t have to cook all weekend! Sit back relax and be in love in the mountains!

For those crazy in love couples wanting to get away we have spiced up our River Romance package and made it a three night stay with a couples massage included! We will welcome you to The Lodge with an evening snack, your choice of wine or beer, and a private log cabin set on the banks of the Panther River. All your meals are included, so let us do the cooking. You can’t go wrong with this package. Your third night is half off, and you can choose the time for your couples massage at the time of booking!

Every year the Safron family lifts off and fly’s to Dormer lake for a fun filled family day of ice fishing. If you know the Safron family, you know their love for flying and fishing….. It is their family tradition on family day. This year we want to extend an invite to all of you to join us at a special family day price. Book 3 guests for the Fly-in Ice Fishing tour and the 4th guest is free. Of course lunch is included in this package, we would not want to deprive you of our lodge ladies famous baking! If you want more information on ice fishing check out The Hole in the Ice

Healing Hand Wellness and Yoga is joining us to bring something extra special to add to your weekend. Book a private or couples massage with the talented ladies of Healing Hand yoga and wellness. Relax deeper and take in a private yoga session with theses amazing ladies. They will customize your session to your ability, and needs. I promise you, you will return home feeling relaxed, recharged, and little more flexible.

Come stay with us on this weekend of love and family…invest in time together, invest in memories……for the love of the mountains.

A Canadian Thing

The feeling your hands get when they are almost too cold, but you keep holding on. All you can hear is your breathing… in…. and out…. as you watch it in the crisp air. Its so peaceful, almost meditative. The excitement of waiting and watching that hole in the ice for your perfect catch is what keeps your there. Its part of being Canadian, It’s ice fishing.

Layer up, grab the toque, and don’t forget the thermos. Staying warm is vital out there on the ice. We love Ice Breaker Merino Wool as our base layer, and for the kids we run to Helly Hansen for their base layers. They look adorable on their skinny butts too.

Remember those toes! If my feet get cold it’s end of game, right there, for me. I put on my Smart Wool socks and make sure my boots don’t fit too snug. As with any outdoor winter sport I always wear a different pair of socks and boots on the drive out so I don’t get them sweaty in the truck. Once you reach your destination jump out, pull on your fresh Smart Wools and boots….you will be good all day.

I could go on, and on about warm gear, but I’ll save that for next time. You just want to catch the fish, right?

You might be wondering what hooks are the money makers. It is pretty much a guessing game….good answer, Eh! Each lake is different, each species of fish is different, and each time of year is different. It’s all part of the sport! But I will let you in on a little secret… even ‘ol faithful, the five of diamonds catches fish out of the ice at Dormer Lake. If all else fails slap a piece of shrimp on that hook and it’s almost a sure thing every time.

If you are planning on heading out to any lake this winter please read this checklist of must do’s for ice fishing in Alberta.

Before you head out make sure the lake you are fishing is open. You can do this by reading the Alberta Sport Fishing Regulations. Go to our website here and click on Alberta Sport Fishing Regulations.

If you want to use bait, make sure that specific lake does not have a bait ban. Baiting information is also in the regulations.

Even though it isn’t law in Alberta anymore, respect them fish and pinch those barbs! This is also helpful if your son gets his fish hook stuck in his friend’s face. I’m not joking either…..just ask my husband.

Check that you have a valid Alberta sport fishing licence and have it on you. If you need a fishing licence get one right now! Yes, I mean like right, right now. Go to our website here and click on “can you purchase me a fishing licence?” Boom. Done.

Now that you have ensured you have everything lined up and you’re ready to hit the ice, you want to make one more decision. Is that ice safe to go on? Ice safety is the number one important decision when heading out on a wintery Alberta day. Ice must be 4 inches thick to walk on and 12 inches thick to drive on. Keep your family safe and check out these My Wild Alberta Ice Safety Tips. Remember on stocked water bodies, that are aerated, you must use extra caution. For more tips on this and for a list of Alberta’s aerated lakes check out Ice Safety On Stocked Waterbodies.

I hope you all can get out, this gorgeous Alberta winter, and spend some time staring at the hole in the ice. Good luck, stay warm, and I hope you catch the big one.

Cheers

The Winter Spirit

Everyone has their favourite season. There is magic found in each one. That’s why it’s so hard to choose just one favourite. At the Lodge at Panther River, we love every season too. But we’re particularly fond of Winter…when the wonderland blanket of white snow covers the gorgeous Canadian rockies. When the air gets cold so we can dress cozy, warm & all wrapped up.

When the seasons change, that chill in the air brings you back to childhood. There is always a memory that stands out in your mind when the seasons change. In the Fall for me, it’s the smell of the earth changing to get ready for winter. The landscapes of magical colors and walking through crisp leaves on the ground. I can hear those leaves even now, that memory never fades. The feeling of Winter approaching, time begins slowing down. It’s a beautiful thing that each year we get to ease our pace as our hair is blown back in the cool breeze…feeling wild and free. It is so peaceful, and quiet. Everyone needs a little bit more of that ease from nature.

As December rolls around new memories also come to mind. The excitement the snow brings, the feeling of family, friends, and community coming together, the playfulness in the snow you may have had as a child shines through even as an adult. It’s the winter spirit – the Christmas/Holiday Spirit coming to life.

At The Lodge at Panther River, we stay open in these cold months to bring that Holiday spirit to our lodge. This Christmas we are thrilled to be fully booked with families coming to enjoy the winter wonderland in the Panther Valley. What is better way than having Christmas breakfast served to you in your private cabin as you spend precious time with your loved ones. Followed by an afternoon lacing up the skates for a tour around our skating rink. Your family can also roasts marshmallows nearby on a roaring fire. Hear the sleigh bells ringing through the mountain air as the horses trot through the snow for an epic sleigh ride just for your family. The experiences that fill our Winters here at the Lodge at Panther River are something made of dreams. If this is a Christmas you’re dreaming of call us at the Lodge, we’d love to book your family’s 2017 Christmas Magic Special. Our phone is right here on the site.

Imagine this….you arrive at the Lodge with a special Panther River gift awaiting you in your cabin. The excitement and wonder in each of your family member’s eyes! We don’t forget about Santa’s love of desserts on his Christmas journey either! Bring your special coupon into the Lodge for your very own cookie building kit to make personalized cookies for Santa. Its all apart of the Panther River Winter Wonderland experience. And it’s OK if you eat some of the cookies…. we won’t tell Santa! I’m sure Santa will be thirsty too. so make sure to ask for a glass of milk too for the kids to leave out with their delicious masterpieces. Tuck those bundles of love in for the night with a read from The Night Before Christmas. With all of our delectable meals made in-house, you can take the family time you need and not worry about cooking. We have got everything you need and all of your holiday bases covered. Make your Christmas Magical… Make memories that last by joining us at The Lodge at Panther River next year.

At the Lodge, we love the calmness the snow brings to the mountains. And we offer more than just overnight Christmas packages, we have a variety of Winter Wonderland delights for the whole family of all ages. Come explore the snow capped Rocky Mountains in gorgeous Alberta, Canada with us for an adventurous Winter’s getaway all of your own design.

Watch a blanket of snow sparkle in the sunlight as you snowshoe through a serene mountain meadow. And if you listen oh – so – carefully, the silence is beautiful. And healing. A joyful holiday treat!

Lift off with one of our mountain helicopter pilots to explore a frozen mountain lake for a true Canadian experience – ice fishing. Bring the family for a unforgettable day on the ice. And your tummy will be full with delicious food, laughter and your heart will be full of memories. Its part of winter life at the Lodge at Panther River, it’s a phenomenal way to celebrate being Canadian in our glorious nature.

We invite you to our backyard where we don’t just go inside to stay warm when the snow flies in, we build a roaring fire to make memories for years to come with friends and family. Pull up a chair, we’ll bring the hot chocolate, join us for a Winter adventure at the Lodge at Panther River soon. Cheers!

A new and improved Lodge at Panther River

It’s a feeling in the mountain air and the sound of the River waters. The moment you arrive near Panther River- you feel the natural vibe of being amongst the wilderness. Your soul remembers it is a part of something far greater than just yourself. You feel completely grounded yet you’re almost floating from the lightness – with the city chaos behind you, and nothing but the quiet stillness all around you. At The Lodge at Panther River you can be yourself, you can allow in the happiness, the joy, and the rush of being free. You can be wild here.
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Choosing your dream is up to you. Making it reality is up to us.

Picture flying with your best friends and bridesmaids in a helicopter to the top of a mountain where your dream husband is waiting to marry you or trotting away in a horse drawn carriage after becoming Mr. and Mrs. These, plus so many other options can be your Panther River wedding reality. We know how special this day is to you so we at The Lodge at Panther River strive to make your wedding day as incredible as you have dream.

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