Get out, get going

Here comes the bride

Planning a wedding can be a daunting process, especially for those on a budget. Should the bridesmaids’ dresses be mustard yellow or mint green? Should the flowers match the carpet? Flowers for Rent will host a free wedding planning seminar today to help brides-to-be decide how to pull off the perfect celebration.

The workshop will be from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Sun Rental Center, 315 S. Dishman-Mica Road. Brides-to-be will receive a complimentary copy of a wedding planning book. Call (877) 522-1630 for reservations.

Vroom, vroom

It’s not too early in the year to imagine the wind blowing through your hair, spray misting your arms and the warm sun soothing your spirit. The 51st annual Spokane National Boat Show is underway at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. The show continues through Feb. 5. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for ages 12-17 and free for children under 12.

Even if you’re not in the market to buy, it’s a good chance to take a look around and dream a little. And who knows. Maybe you’ll win the boat being given away by Tobler Marina. Call 747-4604 for a complete schedule.

Partying like its February

Members of the Spokane Valley Senior Center apparently are firm believers in the fact that it’s never too soon to celebrate Mardi Gras. They’re hosting a Mardi Gras masquerade ball Tuesday from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. at CenterPlace, 2426 N. Discovery Place. Celebrating this early has an advantage, though. You can party all over again on Feb. 28.

Participants are instructed to wear green, purple and gold costumes with an appropriate mask. Refreshments will be served. Uncle Harold’s Dance Band will provide the tunes. The event is for those over 18 only. Admission is $5. Call 926-1937 for more information.