Introducing Rock & Riyo (aka runway bride)
On Saturday I attended the most original and fun wedding reception with a twist, along with my sister Lisa and good friend Margeaux. It took place in Clearwater B.C. which by the way lives up to its name. Too bad the sky wasn’t clear but it certainly didn’t place a damper on the evening which took place on a private airstrip where our friends made their arrival….by plane of course. The flight was pretty much on time too. Out they came dressed as captain and first officer…and we would expect nothing less from these two exceptional adventure seekers.
The reception took place on the airstrip with big white tent set up just outside Rock’s airplane hangar. The hangar itself was turned into a fully stocked open bar, and it was catered with delicious food, dessert and even a hot dog cart for those who wanted a late night extra snack. Naturally there was music too. Everyone got place settings with their names written on a little paper suitcase which when opened had a number (for door prize) and a cute luggage tag with a plane on the inside. It was an evening that was very plane but never boring.
Infact the actual exchange of vows took place on the infamous Spruce Goose which used to be owned by Howard Hughes, in the town of McMinnville, Oregon at the Evergreen Aviation Museum. The reception was hosted by the bride and groom who sat at a head table by themselves and played trivia games where prizes were given out for either having the right answer or the craziest answer. We were asked to please not bring gifts, but guests were given gifts. A reverse order. There was also an inflight movie at dusk about the Spruce Goose and for those not able to attend, their wedding ceremony.
Oh; and the food…catered by Gateway Grill in Clearwater which provided a beautifully plated delicious dinner which when served was still surprisingly warm (remember we were on an airfield) and later, the tastiest dessert served in a signature mason jar.
Suntory sake shooters were passed around later in the evening. The whole thing was relaxed, impressive and unique. I don’t think I’ve had more fun attending a wedding reception before (sorry to the ones I’ve previously attended).
The entire day was full and eventful starting with an amazing white water rafting adventure (photos to come) and then this celebration of a new beginning (instead of an ending; for a welcome change). No one really knew what to expect. Although Riyo really knows how to make an entrance and Rock is the perfect partner…or accomplice. Congratulations to both!
Cool Heights. Amazing Sights.
Rock operates Wells Gray Air (a seasonal business when they’re not travelling elsewhere) and takes people on awesome 44 minute sightseeing tours over world famous Wells Gray Provincial Park (nominated to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in beautiful Clearwater, British Columbia (when it’s clear of course). What you see: majestic waterfalls (39 in total), snow capped mountains, ancient volcanoes, crystal clear whitewater rivers, hidden lakes, mountain pastures and much more. Click the link below and check out the “Wings and Waterfalls” 1 minute, 37 second, absolutely breathtaking video.
Before leaving Palm Springs my friend Tammy invited me to talented photographer Gary Dorothy’s amazing garden + outdoor space to celebrate the sweet 16 year anniversary of his gorgeous gallery 
I’ve seen them before – they’re amazing! In Vancouver for one concert only before returning back to Cuba for Fall/Winter is EL GRUPO CUBANO – BRISAS del PALMAR.
