Ivan and Jamie own and operate Cantina Vallarta where they enjoy sharing the culture of Mexico through food and music. They host a Salsa Dance night every second Saturday and everyone is welcome to attend. Agreeing to be a participant couple in the Dancing with the Shuswap Stars seemed to them a natural extension of their love of community. It is a perfect fit.

Ivan was born in Mexico and met his future wife Jamie when they were both working as staff in the cruise ship industry. They and their young family are relative newcomers to Salmon Arm. Their son Diego has started school and life for the couple is very busy.

Ivan has a background in dance and has taught dance but Jamie is in her words “learning”. Their favourite style of dance are the Latin Dances in all their variations. They enjoy every opportunity to practice dancing. Jamie has never performed in public and describes herself as a regular Canadian girl. She loves focusing on healthy living, yoga and the outdoors. Ivan is very comfortable performing and can often be heard serenading his customers with song in his busy restaurant. He balances that out with a love of sport as he is a keen basketball fan and a soccer player.

When Jamie and Ivan have any time to spare, they enjoy being in the outdoors and exploring nature. Larch Hills recreation area is a gem they have yet to discover.