“My idea of good company…is the company of clever, well-informed people, who have a great deal of conversation…” — Persuasion
Our story
Allow us to present ourselves as your hostesses for the day. We are three dear friends united by a love of Regency clothing, historical dance, and Jane Austen. Thinking there could not be a better way to celebrate our favorite author than by arranging an event in her honor, we have been planning and scheming for more than a year to bring you what we hope will be a wonderful experience.
Arlem Hawks
Arlem Hawks fell in love with Austen’s world as a child and first tried her hand at writing Regency romance in her 20s. She has been writing and publishing books set in the extended Regency period ever since. Studying Austen novels and making pilgrimages to Austen sites have filled her with a deeper love for the woman who paved the way for female authors. She has been involved in historical costume, dance, and events for the last six years.
Mary Rino
Mary Rino has spent most of her life sewing; starting her career right out of high school, working at the costume shops for Utah Opera, Ballet West, and various movie productions. in 2017 she joined as adjunct faculty, teaching at SLCC’s Fashion Institute. After a decade in the fast paced wedding alteration scene, she retired in 2021, joined a historical sewing group and hasn’t stopped sewing historical clothing and attending events. Her love of Jane Austen matches her love of history. Traveling the world, walking the streets of Bath in regency attire, and attending the Masked Ball at the palace of Versailles have been the highlights of her new historical passion.
Rachel Bergquist
Rachel Bergquist descended from a long line of sewists and tailors. After working to make custom bridal gowns and alterations for ten years, she decided to finish her education by enrolling in fashion school, which she has nearly completed. A long-time fan of the beauty and colors of the 2005 Pride and Prejudice film, she tried out a few historical events prior to Covid and spent 2020 trying her hand at creating Historical clothing. She fell in love with the simplicity of Regency style, as well as the adventurous spirit of the people and fascinating innovations of the period. As the original mastermind behind this event, she is excited to bring Jane Austen and the Regency era to life for all of you.
