By Phil McLachlan
The Royal was filled with masked mothers on Friday, when it hosted the Masquerade Ball which raised funds for Kindergym.
Elaborate headdresses of vibrant feathers and masks stood out against the colourfully decorated walls. It was a night that granted mothers an opportunity to dress up, and spend some time on the town drinking cocktails with friends.
Since becoming a mom, The Royal proprietor, Julie Comete has become a part of the Kindergym board of directors. Helping with their fundraising, she was delighted at the opportunity to host such an event.
“I said, I have a bar, so why don’t we do a fundraiser there,” said Comete.
The goal was to give mothers an affordable night out, as babysitters can be expensive. $15 bought individuals entrance to the event, plus a cocktail and appetizers. Even at this cost, The Royal was still able to raise money for Kindergym.
The Kindergym is an indoor gym for kids, with tunnels and slides. Open only in the winter, Kindergym gives kids an opportunity to let off some steam when the weather outside is cold.
Comete was hoping to get a crowd of at least 40, to raise approximately $500. At 8p.m., a crowd of 20 had already gathered.
Julie Comete has owned The Royal for five of her nine years in Fernie. Previously running The Central, Comete was given the opportunity to take over The Royal after ownership changed.
“The owner said, The Royal is sitting empty, so why don’t you go there and do your own business,” said Comete. “So me and my husband said, lets give it a shot, and within a week we were opening.”
The past five years have been challenging, but rewarding nonetheless. Comete finds that business can be temperamental, depending on the snow.
The Royal was built in 1909, and Comete is hesitant about renovating or tampering with its authenticity. It is still the only bar in town that has not been renovated.
“There’s a lot of memories in this building,” said Comete. “I’m trying to keep it as-is, authentic, because I think that is what makes it what it is.”
“Even though it’s old and there’s holes in the ceiling, it’s got a feel to it, it’s fun and it’s cozy,” said Comete. “So for the future... we’ll just keep on doing what we’re doing and hope people like it.”
Upcoming events for The Royal include live music by Tallest to Shortest on Friday, February 3.