10/07/2024
Looooong post.
Read my Hips Ponoka Gala 2024 has come and gone. As always, it is a whirlwind of checklists, tasks, activity, stress, surprise, bliss, fun, excitement, awe and exhaustion.
In the days and weeks leading up to the gala I find myself questioning why we do this…it’s a lot. But, then the gala happens…and I experience it through the eyes of attendees and performers and I remember why we do it. For me the “why” is more than the fun I have with choreography or teaching. More than the costumes and dancing, more than the food, wine, and fun. It’s even more than whatever beneficiary we have gotten behind…Those are all wonderful…but they aren’t why.
It’s no secret that I’m a community girl; and I truly feel that what is at the heart of any community, is the women. Creating an event where there is zero competition, zero judgment…an event where women are supporting and celebrating each other…where women are free to relax, connect, dance, enjoy, and maybe be inspired…that’s just magic.
I have so many people to thank. Kazoo Productions …people, if you have an event, performance, anything you want top notch videography for, reach out!
Rose Creations Ltd. - as always the decor is a highlight
Evolution Catering & Events - only rave reviews!!
The Crow - the moonlight charcuterie lunch was a big hit!!
The entire Hudson clan (and friends) Cindy Lou, and Evan Hudson…you all are the absolute best!! Thank you!!!
Our guest stars…
⭐️ TriDevi Dance Troupe and sister Troupe Flaming Hip Scarves - every single year you AMAZE with your abilities and connection through dance! Aimee Loo, Colleen Arendt Geake, please pass it on to all!!
⭐️ Michelle RedSauce and Ash Tone-Rein - you completely have this whole town wrapped. You two are “cool” embodied as dance.
⭐️ Crystal Reign your style, talent, and playfulness always gets the crowd going!!! Such a star!! We love you!!! Please pass on our thanks and compliments to your duet partner!!
⭐️ Marie Whipple you are such a stunning person and performer. You exude love, support, encouragement, and elegance. You dazzle!
⭐️ Niqua D. Nossam your performance and style is bewitching, captivating and so impressive!!
⭐️ Jula Lewis…you were a star too!! Your charisma and charm stole the show!!! You are a stellar Mistress of Ceremonies!!!
Angela Douglas and Wild Child Photography - thank you SO MUCH! I am excited to see what you create!! Need a photographer?? Check out this page!!
Our Juniors Callie and Layla danced with fluid elegance far beyond their years. So proud of these young dancers.
Our moms (including Mellissa Marshall Moench) and littie girls, you pull every heartstring in the room!!
Read my Hips Ponoka members…Cindy Lou Amy Kathleen, Robyn Clarkson- O'Connell, Angela Phillips-Olson, Keri-lynn Hulsman . We did it!! All your hard work paid off and we rocked it!! I hope you are all proud of your accomplishment! Thank you for enduring my ideas and persevering!
Jeff Ramage and Cary Wells, and Dave Cooper…you guys behind the scenes make this show and party happen. Thank you so much!!!!
Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1633 Ponoka is also a huge supporter! They are really, really good to us and we are lucky to have such a benevolent, community supporting service club here.
Let’s not forget all the donors!! This is where the bulk of our donation comes from and we witness SO MUCH generosity this year it was astounding!!
And our attendees!!! Your energy, receptiveness, support, and spirit is everything!! It’s why our guest performers come here, so thank YOU!!!!!
I’m in awe of all of these individuals and groups…we all created something really beautiful together and I’m so honoured and fortunate to be a part in this community.
And to all of my friends and family that I have been ignoring…it’s not you, it’s me. The gala consumes all for a bit…but I still love you!
