Bridal showers are an opportunity for those closest to the bride to “shower” her with their love, best wishes, and fabulous gifts. It is a tradition that has been happening since the sixteenth century.

Since then, not much has changed. Bridal showers of all sorts today still encompass pretty much the same essence and etiquette. One thing should always be kept in mind when planning a bridal shower: the theme should suit the bride’s personality and style.

Recently, in the At Home section of the Edmonton Journal, a Mexican themed bridal shower was featured. This particular shower was inspired by the bride’s love for mojitos. Tracey Meiklejohn-Carney makes planning an outdoor, Cuban themed bridal shower seem like a breeze.

Planning a bridal shower should be fun. It really doesn’t have to be the painstaking task that some may perceive it to be. Enjoy the experience of planning (or attending) a bridal shower and choose a theme that will get everyone into the spirit of the occasion!

Also get inspired by the dozens of themed party favors available at The Sweet Occasion. While you’re there, make sure to check out the photos that photographer Katee Grace shot at Meehan’s Indian inspired bridal shower. The photos of Meehan’s bridal shower are simply awe-inspiring, colorful, and delightfully decorated.

LINKPINK 2010

The Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation – Prairies/NWT Region’s 2010 LINKPINK event, Co-Presented by The Canada Safeway Foundation and the Edmonton Journal, featuring seven-time Tour de France champion and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong, takes place August 25 and 26th in Edmonton. For event details, visit LINKPINK`s official site.

Be part of the journey on the road to a future without breast cancer. Below is some valuable information about prevention, and maintaining breast health.

1) Reduce Your Risk
When it comes to preventing breast cancer there is no magic solution and no guarantee. But there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. It is never too early, nor too late, to begin, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle and body weight throughout your lifetime are key

• Eat a Balanced Diet
Open your mind and your mouth to whole grains and fruits and vegetables. Eat more fish and less red meat. Make sure you are eating the right fats. Make wise choices at every meal, striking a healthy balance of items from all food groups and avoiding foods high in fat and sugar.

• Get Active and Stay That Way
Studies show that even moderate physical activity may decrease your risk of developing breast cancer. Go for a brisk walk or run. Play tennis. Chase your grandkids. Take the stairs. Park a block away. Do whatever you enjoy doing, or do it anyway. Just be sure to do it for at least 30 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week.

• Watch What You Drink
The more alcohol you consume, the greater your risk. To be safe, it is recommended that you limit your intake to one drink, or less, per day.

• Do Not Start Smoking
If you do smoke, quit.