When we launched our Canadian Spirit contest, we hoped to celebrate everything we love about this beautiful country: the fun, the fashion, the food (hello, poutine!), and most importantly, the people. And you delivered in the most wonderful and heartfelt ways.
And this year, that celebration felt extra meaningful.
Let’s be honest: with all the noise coming from south of the border (👀), a few '51st state' jokes flying around and global uncertainty making headlines, we felt a strong collective urge to stand tall and say, “Actually… we’re good, eh?”
This contest became more than just a chance to win a dress, it became a joyful, stylish love letter to the True North strong and fabulous.
🏆 1st Place Winner: Marcella Tee
Looking radiant in the Diane dress aboard the HMCS on Canada Day!
Marcella’s photo struck the perfect balance of glam and grit. Posing on a Canadian frigate that’s part of the Royal Canadian Navy, she brought history, pride, and pure Cherry Velvet fabulousness to the deck. These frigates have served Canada since 1992, part of the Canadian Patrol Frigate Project dating back to the 1970s, and Marcella made it look like the runway was set to sea.
We’re also incredibly proud to highlight our runner-up, DawnDena, who shared a thoughtful video message of learning, reconciliation, and hope.
“My True North fabulousness is rooted in learning, respect, and growth. Surrounded by the books that have guided me, I honour the teachings of Indigenous peoples as I stitch a symbol of remembrance and hope. I stand in front of a colonial institution working toward change, wearing art and colour that acknowledge a shared commitment to reconciliation. This is the Canada I celebrate: one moving forward, one step at a time.”
Her message was a powerful reminder that loving your country also means listening, learning and growing together. We’re honoured to share her voice and her vision of a Canada we can all work toward. You can view her video on our Facebook or Instagram.
Thank You, From the Bottom of Our (Maple Syrup-Filled) Hearts 🍁
To everyone who entered, shared, liked, and cheered others on; thank you. Your spirit, your and your fabulousness made this contest unforgettable.
We’re constantly thinking of fun new ways to engage our Cherry Velvet community. In the meantime, keep celebrating who you are, where you’re from, and how you show up in style. Because you are what makes this country truly shine.
With love, pride and poutine,
Team Cherry