BC Family Day Long Weekend

5 Fun Things To Do This Long Weekend

If you are looking for something to do this BC Family Day long weekend, you don’t have to look far. My longtime bff and I just went for an amazing Sunday brunch at Catch 122 in the Shipyards District. Although they were crazy busy when I called, the hostess set us up on their waitlist using the Open Table app.

While I waited for Mona to pick me up, I received a text letting me know that our table was ready. I was able to select an option that said we’re on our way so that the restaurant would save it for us. I’m so grateful for this system because when we arrived the wait was over an hour.

I ordered their Huevos Rancheros and my gf had their Seasonal French Toast. It looked like a huge piece of cake and was so filling that she took half of it home. Both were delicious and our server, Anna provided us with great customer service.

2. Go to MONOVA (Museum of North Vancouver) at 115 West Esplanade, just steps from Lonsdale Quay and the Seabus station. They have a wonderful Indigenous exhibit, a beautiful gift shop and are hosting a Family Day Event tomorrow from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Amission is free all day long!

When you are a member you will receive a 10% discount on the merchandise in their gift shop as well as your guests admission to the museum. I purchased Northwest Coast artist, Kelly Robinson‘s Raven Transforming small porcelain dish (shown in the photo below) and the matching platter.

Raven Transforming Kelly Robinson Fine Porcelain Dish — Northwest Coast artist, Kelly Robinson’s Raven Transforming fine porcelain dish

3. MONOVA is also hosting a free virtual Coast Salish Wool Weaving Event tomorrow from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. The free tickets are available on EventBrite. The museum made it very easy to register for the tickets and pick up the bracelet making supplies. Tsawasiya Spukwas (Alice Guss), MONOVA’s Indigenous Cultural Programmer will be teaching the participants about Coast Salish wool weaving and showing us how to make a wool bracelet. I can’t wait! I registered my Mama and I for the workshop.

MONOVA Coast Salish Wool Weaving Supplies and Event — Coast Salish Wool Weaving Supplies from MONOVA

4. If you love thrift shopping as much as Mona and I, there are 3 shops in Lower Lonsdale that you should check out. First time for both us was Wild Honey Vintage, a curated collection from sisters, Joanie and Sarah. Their boutique is in a cozy space that makes you feel like you’re walking into your friend’s living room.

A block up on Lonsdale, is Hunter and Hare, consignment shop with an assortment of goodies: jewelry, hair accessories, shoes, purses, clothing, candles, essential oils and journals. I didn’t buy anything today, but previously picked up some great barrettes that I wear all the time. If you are following me on Instagram, you’ve seen them. Lol.

Another block up is the Good Stuff Connection thrift shop and clothing program at 154 West 3rd Street. It is operated by North Shore Crisis Services Society, a registered North Vancouver charity that helps women and children escape from domestic violence and abuse.

Mona and I found a lot of great thrifty finds! I bought two pairs of Wild Abandon earrings, terry cloth slippers for Mama, an Ikea bathmat and an R&W scarf. And she got an Alisha Keys CD, black mules and pink jeans.

Wild Abandon Jewelry from the Good Stuff Connection thrift store

5. And last but not least, a great IG worthy photo background–Fun Alley! It is located right beside Buddha-Full, Lower Lonsdale vegan restaurant.

October 16, 2022October 16, 2022

The Lunch Lady: Worth the Wait!

Pork Belly & Vermicelli with Spring Rolls

Mama Izumi and I started out our Sunday picking up a pair of Vessis that I found on Facebook Marketplace. Bur we were about to embark on another foodie adventure! Originally, we had discussed going out for Korean, but the FB seller lived near Commercial Drive, so I said, “Let’s go to the Lunch Lady!” and Mamma was like, “Okay!”

The Lunch Lady is nestled in the heart of the Drive at 1046 Commercial Drive in East Vancouver.

Mama is usually game for any kind of restaurant that I suggest. We are foodies and this was our first time which was exciting for both of us. We had tried to dine here before, but the wait for a table was 45 minutes.

Today we were lucky! We found parking right beside the Lunch Lady and although there was a line-up, we arrived 5 minutes before they opened.

An airy space brightly lit, renovated bar and chrome table tops awaited us with a comfortable ambiance, filled with awesome music from artists like Drake. Friendly staff greeted us and served us throughout our meal. We ordered their Beef Pho and Pork Belly with Vermicelli and spring rolls. OMG, the pork belly was full of umami (Japanese for tasty)!

Everything was fresh and full of flavour. Mama and I highly recommend the Lunch Lady and will definitely go back.

We would also like to thank Jasmine and all the staff for their attentiveness and great customer service!

Mayumi Izumi - Local Promoter — Mayumi Izumi – Local Promoter, Digital Creator

If you would like to learn more about the Lunch Lady follow them on their Instagram or make reservations on their website.

October 10, 2022

Thanksgiving — What I am Grateful for

Every morning I wake up, I am grateful for my life and what has entered it. It is true what they say. When you think positively, expect a positive outcome, and are thankful for what you have, you will receive more good things.

I wasn’t always this ray of sunshine. I have experienced depression, thoughts of suicide, anxiety, and insomnia. But I overcame my dark nights of the soul and many hurdles to become the person I am today.

Everything happens for a reason. I believe that I am here to teach and help people — I am a lightworker. People are attracted to the light in me. They confide their personal struggles and heartaches and I, in turn, do what I can to alleviate the situation they’re in.

Unfortunately, this is sometimes to my detriment.

But I don’t regret helping them. It is why I’m here.

Happy Thanksgiving!

April 20, 2022April 20, 2022

New Artist Feature — Argel MDR (Monte de Ramos)

Argel MDR Photo Shoot for EP Release Reign

My MISSION

To motivate and inspire artists, creators and entrepreneurs (in the making) with my Features. To uplift, encourage, promote and to share aspirations, goals and dreams with them, and my subscribers.

To provide and build a warm, loving, and supportive community of CREATORS. Creators of art, a business, or a NEW YOU …

We Met At Capilano University

I first met Argel Monte de Ramos at Capilano University in the Birch Building. He was giving students free Ethical Bean coffee in his role as a CSU (Capilano Students’ Union) Outreach Assistant. I took photos of Argel at the table and asked him if it was alright if I posted them on my Instagram. We started following each other and from there a great friendship began.

I am very excited to announce that Argel’s EP is going to be released in 8 days — on April 28! I had the pleasure of interviewing him to celebrate his success as an emerging artist.

Gifted With Talent

M: When did you first start singing? How old were you?

A: I started singing when I was three. My parents discovered my talent for music at a young age, and so at the age of three, they signed me up to a be part of our church’s youth gospel choir to hone my skills in singing.

M: When did you know that you wanted to pursue a career with your gift?

A: It wasn’t until I came back from my exchange program in the UK that I decided to pursue a career in the performing arts. At that time, I was finishing a Diploma in Arts, mainly taking business classes.

My initial plan was to finish a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. But my passion for the performing arts steered me towards its direction. Aside from pursuing a career in music, I also work for a performing arts school as an Arts Administrator for their community programs.

And I am a producer at Playwrights Theatre Centre’s Early Career Development program. I feel so fortunate to be able to work in the performing arts world.

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

I am from Manila, Philippines. My family and I moved here in 2012 and I have been living in the Metro Vancouver Area for ten years. We moved here to seek a better life and opportunities.

Argel MDRs first video Story We Tell — Argel MDR’s first video, Story We Tell

Argel`s First Ever EP Reign

M: You have an EP that is about to be released at the end of this month. What was your inspiration for it?

A: Yes! I am so excited about my first-ever EP! Reign, was inspired by my life as a young Filipino-Canadian immigrant and my journey toward finding a safe space to advocate for myself. It is all about finding our ways to thrive and own who we are; to reign our lives and not care about what other people say about us.

M: How long did it take to write the songs for your EP?

A: Each song had a different timeline. There are four songs in my EP: Reign, Blues, I’ll Rise, and Story We Tell. Reign and Blues took me half an hour to an hour to write. While the other two took me two weeks. It really depended on how busy I was or what I felt at the moment.

Producing the songs took a much longer time, I’ll Rise being the longest at 6 months. The producers and I took a bit of time to decide what genre of music Reign really fits into.

M: What did you study at Capilano University?

A I initially started in the Business Administration program but then decided to switch to Musical Theatre. After finishing that program, I enrolled in the Bachelor of Performing Arts program which I completed last September 2021 at Capilano University.

M: How have the courses that you studied and your program helped launch your career?

A: It provided me with an opportunity to trust my instincts and hone my skills in singing, dancing, acting, and arts administration.

M: What would your advice be to future artists with dreams of pursuing a career in singing?

My advice is to trust your instincts and try to find the courage to tell your story. As an advocate for representation, anti-racism work, and inclusion, I use the art of storytelling, music and performance to get my message across.

Inspiring others through the performing arts is truly beautiful, and so if you are blessed with such skills, it is humbling to see people responding to you. So honestly, do it! There’s no perfect time to do it but now.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or a famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

A: I believe that people have biases and privileges that need to be acknowledged in order for us to lift each other up and for everyone to feel like they belong. We are all worthy of happiness and success in life.

I truly believe in James Baldwin quote, “it took many years of vomiting up all the filth I’d been taught about myself and half-believed before I was able to walk on the earth as though I had a right to be here.”

In order for us to create space for others, we need to create a space for ourselves. I provided a space for myself by creating original work for music and theatre, and now, I provide a space for others to find inspiration through my stories.

MILESTONES

To learn more about Argel MDR, his SOON to be released EP and his many talents, please visit his website and follow him on Instagram, his Facebook page and YouTube.

February 26, 2022March 28, 2022

Local Small Business Feature Series — Vancouver Waxlings

I recently collaborated with Vancouver Waxlings founder, Margot J. Leviton and five other female-owned local small businesses for a Valentine’s Giveaway on Instagram. Margot’s prizes were the Bae and Babe candles featured in the photo above.

I originally met her through social media–She was offering a sample of her Key Lime Pie Candle. And coincidentally we also have a mutual friend. It is a small world and the pandemic has shown us just how connected we are as one.

M: When did you open your business?

VW: Waxlings was created in April 2020 when I dislocated my shoulder and could no longer see my Vancouver Healer clientele.

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

VW: I didn’t really think about it. It was hobby that turned into a business. I’ve had my own massage/healing practice since 2006.

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

VW: I grew up in North Vancouver.

M: What was your inspiration for your business?

VW: During the COVID-19 shutdown I saw my clients getting very depressed. I thought if I could create scents that would connect them to happy memories–I could help them.

Vancouver Waxlings Founder Margot J. Leviton

M: Did you go to university and if you did what did you study/major in? Which university did you attend? Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

VW: I went to WCCMT (West Coast College of Massage Therapy).

No, not these days. You really don’t need one if you have entrepreneurial savvy and can navigate social media.

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own business be?

VW: Go for it. If you have the drive and a great business concept–Just do it!

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

VW: Just. Be. Kind. It. Costs. Nothing.

MILESTONES

Are there any milestones for your business that you would like me to mention in the Feature?

When I landed my first stores Dip Co. Delights and Larry’s Market.

If you would like to learn more about Margot’s yummy Vancouver Waxlings candles, please visit their website, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

February 11, 2022February 11, 2022

Local Small Business Feature Series — Oenomel Chocolates’ First Year Anniversary

Welcome to Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s new Small Business Feature Series. Vancouver based, Oenomel Chocolates, is the first business to be featured and just in time to celebrate their first year anniversary.

Oenomel is a Greek word that means sweetness and strength. It’s what Melody hopes her chocolates bring to people.

I met Melody Hu, founder of Oenomel Chocolates on Instagram. I was intrigued by this lovely, ambitious organic chocolatier and started following her profile. She has graciously invited me to her local events but unfortunately, my schedule has not allowed me to attend thus far. My fingers are crossed that I will be able to join her next one!

Melody Hu, Founder of Oenomel Chocolates

M: When did you open your business?

MH: I launched my business on February 24th, 2021. So, in a way, my business is my Valentine. I have so much passion and love for it!

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

MH: I have always dreamt of building a brand that incorporates values, such as craftsmanship, sustainability, and wellness. And using that brand as a tool to create wealth for my loved ones.

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

MH: I was born in China and spent my childhood both in Shenzhen, the Silicon Valley of China, and Auckland, where sheep outnumber humans. I finished high school and got my Bachelor of Science Degree at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, where I studied Neuroscience and started my first venture, a macaroon startup business. And gradually, I fell in love with this city and decided that I wanted to build my business and home here.

M: What was your inspiration for your business?

MH: I wanted to create a product that incorporates health, wellness, and craftsmanship. I chose chocolates because there are too many sweets that are unhealthy. They tend to be filled with saturated fats and harmful amounts of sugar. I only use natural ingredients and organic, fair-trade chocolates that are sweet and delicious.

Blood Orange & Almond Blood Oenomel Chocolate

M: What did you do before opening your business?

MH: After graduating from UBC, I worked as an intern in a stem cell research company in Vancouver and then in business development for an international law firm in Shenzhen, China. I gained invaluable experience from both jobs.

M: If you were in a different industry, did you enjoy your former career?

Looking back, I did enjoy my former careers. When I worked in the law firm, I had guidance, and learned to work with others in a team. These are lessons that I have brought to start and develop my own company as an entrepreneur.

M: Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

MH: I was glad that I got a degree before opening my own business. University was an experience beyond what I chose for my major. I learned to learn, I gained mentorship from professors who have expertise in their field, and I joined clubs where I made lifelong friends.

University life has a lot to offer if you embrace it. There are many famous successful entrepreneurs who don’t have a post-secondary degree, so it is possible to succeed in business without a degree.

But you should know yourself and know what environment and path are best suited for your career development. And no matter which path you choose, you have to believe in yourself, have confidence, and never give up.

Oenomel Valentine’s gourmet truffles and bonbons

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own business be?

MH: See the value in yourself and your business and bring these values to people you wish to serve.

Work hard, understand and love yourself–Do these things well, and extend it to your employees.

Don’t stop learning, don’t be afraid to try new things and fail.

Never give up. There’s always a way to succeed.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or a famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

MH: “Dream big, start small, begin now.” — Robin Sharma, The 5 AM Club

MILESTONES

Oenomel Chocolates is celebrating its first year anniversary on February 24 and although it is a a startup business, it gives back to the Metro Vancouver community.

In December 2021. Oenomel Chocolate organized a fundraising event and raised 200 CAD for a non-profit organization to distribute food to insecure communities.

Over 20 local musicians, artists, and businesses participated, and over 100 guests joined us for a beautiful Warm Company and Wine Evening. It was an event worth remembering.

In 2022, Oenomel Chocolate continues to support charities with good causes. We will be organizing fundraising events and making donations to charity through the sales of some of our products.

If you would like to learn more about Oenomel products please visit their website and support them by following their on IG and FB.

December 7, 2021January 27, 2022

Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s Services

Building Community

Now more than ever, it is important to stay connected with our neighbours, local small business owners and strengthen our community. The pandemic has caused many businesses to suffer and some to close.

Services

Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s mission is to empower small businesses to shine by offering digitally marketing, social media management, search engine optimization and public relations services.

We have increased local small businesses’ search engine optimization and raised them within the top 5 of Google searches, written over 30 business and restaurant features to highlight their talent, specialty and expertise.

Raisu Restaurant BLUEFIN TUNA DELUXE SEAFOOD BOWL — The Bluefin Tuna Deluxe Sewafood Bowl — Raisu Japanese Restaurant Feature, August 2021

Some of the Businesses We Featured

Blvd Bistro & Swich Café (Double Feature — same owner)
Cahill CPA
Coache Collision
Creative Inspo
Eclipse Awards
Fawn Gill Fitness
Daisy’s Sandwiches & Such
Fit Life Coaching
Goodlad Clothing
Green Coast Rubbish
Henna by Arneet
Little Pink Door Boutique
QRZones
Queen of the Closet
Raisu Authentic Japanese Cuisine
Tequila Cocina Restaurant

Connecting with Business Owners

The best part of our work is the connections we make with the people behind the businesses and restaurants we feature all across Metro Vancouver. We carefully select businesses that we truly enjoy whether it is because of the food, product and people or all the above.

We feel privileged to know the inspiring, creative and entrepreneurial individuals that took a chance to follow their dreams, worked hard and succeeded in starting their own businesses.

Kristin Ames of Fit Life Coaching — Interview & Feature, August 2020

There is a spark, a light within these men and women. We are uplifted when we interview them and dig into their stories:

Did they always want to own their own business?
What was their inspiration?
What is their advice to others who want to start their own business?

If you would like to read our upcoming local small business features make sure to subscribe to Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC. and also follow our Lifestyle Ezine on our Instagram and Twitter. To inquire about our services, please email: mayumi@mayumiizumi.com.

November 6, 2021November 6, 2021

North Vancouver Business Feature — Man Up Grooming

I had the pleasure of interviewing Alison Koch, Proprietor of Man Up Grooming. Wow, not many people impress me but she did! Classy, intelligent, forthcoming–a true entrepreneur. I could have talked to her for hours.

What is most interesting to note about Alison is that she is the owner of a barber shop but she does not cut hair herself. She saw a need–a place for men to feel special and pampered and she opened her doors to offer them an assortment of quality services: hair cuts, buzz cuts, beard trims, hot razor shaves and even colour!

The ambiance at Man Up is warm, inviting and dark… It has man cave and western saloon vibes with a long wooden counter.

Man Up Grooming Barber Shop — Man Cave & Care

M: What was your inspiration for Man Up?

A: At the time, men did not have anywhere to go to get a great haircut and be treated with respect and great service. There were informal barber shops that didn’t offer a hair wash, a quality drink, appointments or quality environment.

Men could choose to go to a salon where almost everything was merchandised for women: feminine colours, feminine smelling products, couches and coffee tables with women’s fashion magazines. These salons were also charging a substantial premium to the barbershops. Therein laid an opportunity!

M: When did you open your business?

A: Spring of 2013.

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

A: In my 20’s I was an employee and then started creating my own employment shortly after that. Yes, I felt comfortable with risk, it gives me energy.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life that you would like to share with everyone?

A: Never stop pushing hard towards your dream. Just when you think it’s a complete disaster or won’t work, that’s when you drive harder and make it work. If you give up then don’t even try. I find most people tell me why something won’t work rather than focus on how to make it work.

I chose three words for each business to keep me focused on my mission statement: respect, style and quality.
— Alison Koch, Man Up Grooming Proprietor

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

A: I am one of the few born and bred in Vancouver. Lived on the North Shore the majority of my life.

M: What did you do prior to opening your business?

A: Lots. There’s one thing I strongly believe in is that business is business, it doesn’t matter if you are selling ballet shoes or changing car oil. When an opportunity knocks, take it. Even if an industry is saturated, you can be successful if you do it differently. I have found that not knowing anything about an industry can give you an edge to create what has not been done before.

M: If you were in a different industry, did you enjoy your former career?

A: Yes, I must say I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve done. Some were more challenging than others on so many levels, but the constant learning curve is what keeps me driving. I’m proud to say there were only a few years I was not taking some kind of educational course. My latest diploma is Animal Sciences as my next big dream is to create an animal sanctuary.

Man Up Grooming Manly Things — Man Up Grooming — Manly things, hair products

M: Did you attend university? Which university did you attend? Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

A: University helps you buy some time to grow up or figure out what you want to do. Obviously, if you’re going to be a doctor or lawyer or something that requires a degree, then yes. All others should be given serious consideration if you want to work for yourself. There were two things that every business have in common–law and accounting. Both disciplines are worth learning as much as you can.

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own business be?

A: Be realistic, it takes years to establish a successful business. It also costs twice as much as you think. Select your mentors carefully and never listen to “you can’t because” statements from your friends and family.

Some people will tell you that you can’t do it because they cannot envision how to make it work. Others will support you blindly, again not knowing how to do what you are about to conquer. Neither opinion is helpful.

Ask strangers (because they are not emotionally invested in you) and other successful people (because they have already done it).

MILESTONES

M: Are there any milestones for your business that you would like me to mention in the Feature?

A: I can’t think of any right now, we are waiting for Covid to end so we can have a customer appreciation bash, perhaps we will be able to for our 10 year anniversary in 2023!

If you would like to learn more about Man Up Grooming or book an appointment: please visit their website and Instagram. They are located at 1083 Marine Drive, North Vancouver.

August 21, 2021August 21, 2021

Local Restaurant Feature — Raisu Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Mama Izumi and I went on a Foodie Adventure recently and had the pleasure of dining at Raisu Restaurant in the heart of Kitsilano, where all of our foodie desires were satiated with their authentic Japanese cuisine.

I have been eating sushi since I was I was a little girl and they have the freshest, most delicious sashimi I’ve ever had. We shared the Raisu Lunch Meal Special.

You can choose 2 out of these 4 items:

Chef’s choice of sashimi (3 kinds), deep fried dishes (2 kinds), today’s meat dish, and today’s grilled fish.

Their lunch special also includes rice, miso soup, small dish, homemade pickles and salad.

We also feasted on their Bluefin Tuna Deluxe Seafood Bowl. And although we were stuffed full of yuminess we ordered their Yuzu Parfiat and Souffle Cheesecake for dessert.

Mama and I highly recommend Raisu to fans of sushi, sashimi, and Japanese food!

Raisu's Desserts — Yuzu Parfait & Souffle Cheesecake

I was intrigued and wanted to learn more about the people behind Raisu. I had the opportunity to interview their Assistant Manager, Yumi Takeshita.

Exclusive Interview with Raisu’s Assistant Manager

M: When did Raisu first open for business? Who is the founder?

Y: Raisu opened on July 2, 2016 as a sister restaurant to Kingyo Izukaya, Suika Snackbar, and Rajio Public House. All 4 restaurants are under the Tamaru Shoten Marketing Corp umbrella.

Minoru Tamaru began Kingyo about 10 years ago because he wanted to introduce people in Vancouver to Izakaya culture and provide authentic Japanese meals.

Raisu Restaurant Japanese Cuisine — Raisu is located at 2340 W 4th in Kitsilano

Inspiration for Opening Raisu and Providing Authentic Japanese Cuisine

M: What was Minoru’s inspiration for Raisu? Is he the sole owner or does he have business partners?

Y: Yes, he is doing this business by himself. Raisu’s concept is 80’s Japanese culture and Teishoku (balanced meal set).

M: Yumi, where are you originally from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

Y: I am from Japan and I hoped to live abroad when I there. I had heard Vancouver is the best city to live and I was interested what the Japanese culture was like here too.

M: What did you do prior to working at Raisu?

Y: I worked for 8 years at Coca-Cola bottlers in Fukuoka prefecture, in Japan. I was sales person, sales office administrator and HR. When I came here in Vancouver, I worked at JAPADOG as a manager, and went to college, worked as an accountant at an agency for Japanese students who want to study in Canada.

Then now I am working at Raisu. I have been working here 3 years and I am assistant manager fortunately since April. All my job experiences are now with food.

M: If you were in a different industry, did you enjoy your former career?

Y: Yes, absolutely. I enjoyed working every occasion. There are a lot of good things to know and learn. If it does not relate between each industry, I can find relations and there is no waste time that I have experienced.

Is University Important for Future Business Owners?

M: Did you go to university? If so, what did you study? Which university did you attend? Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

Y: Yes, I graduated Seinan Gakuin University in Fukuoka, Japan, and I earned a Bachelor of Law Degree.

I might recommend to pursue, but if they have clear future vision, that is no need to. However it is very worth time to pursue something and make friends before doing business. I think it is very important at that term.

M: Do you have any interest to own your own business?

Y: Yes I do, but I need to learn about business more, so I start working at Raisu.

Yumi’s Philosophy

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

Y: Live everyday happily, that makes your future happy!

This is my philosophy to live but I am not sure there is similar quote in English.

MILESTONES

Raisu just celebrated it’s 5 Year Anniversary July 2^nd 2021.

Go in to congratulate them in person at 2340 West 4th Street or learn more about Raisu visit their website. You also have the option to order online and follow them on Instagram.

July 14, 2021July 14, 2021

A little About Mayumi — 10 Things You May Not Know About Me

If know me in person or you’re following me on Instagram, you may know quite a lot about me because I share A LOT about myself. It’s the way I’ve always been.

People are sometimes shocked at how much I reveal but why not? I enjoy connecting with others and bonding with them over our similarities.

But there are things you may not know or have not read on my social platforms. Here are 10 things you may not know about me:

1) My middle name is Rosanna. My Papa named me Mayumi Rosanna after a Japanese actress and an Italian singer. Thank you, Papa — I love my name!

2) I drive 6-speed and can’t imagine going back to driving automatic. One of my nicknames is Miss Andretti after the race car driver because I love to drive fast!

My car baby, The Boss, 6-speed VW Tiguan

3) I grew up an only child and love to be the center of attention!

4) I am a highly sensitive person (scientific term coined by psychologist Elaine Aron), an empath and highly intuitive. What does all this mean? I process a lot of information (that most others miss) about people all at once, can pick up on others emotions & feel them as if they were my own, and a lot of times I know something is going to happen before it happens.

5) I am of Japanese heritage but was born in Vancouver, BC at a hospital on Oak Street that is now BC Women’s & Children’s Hospital. I am proud to be a Vancouverite and Canadian!

6) I studied Fashion Design in Toronto and Fashion Merchandising here at VCC. Fashion was my first love!

Max & Mia designed by MAYUMI IZUMI (dress to be revealed SOON)

7) My first retail job was at Pegabo Shoes (sister store to Aldo) in Pacific Centre. I love shoes!

8) I was on the field hockey team in my final year at Carson Graham Secondary. I love playing but preferably floor hockey!

9) I took guitar lessons for about 1 or 2 years but stopped because the music school closed down and now I forget how to play. But I loved it and going to teach myself again SOON!

Mayumi Izumi playing guitar — Me, Mayumi playing my Yamaha guitar my Mama bought

10) I’m a big flirt! Always have been and still love to do it! It goes hand-in-hand with being center of attention… Hahaha!

If you haven’t checked out my Instagram profiles (I have 4), go to my Contact page or my main profile.

MAYUMI IZUMI | FI INC.

Posts

BC Family Day Long Weekend

The Lunch Lady: Worth the Wait!

Thanksgiving — What I am Grateful for

New Artist Feature — Argel MDR (Monte de Ramos)

My MISSION

We Met At Capilano University

Gifted With Talent

Argel`s First Ever EP Reign

MILESTONES

Local Small Business Feature Series — Vancouver Waxlings

MILESTONES

Local Small Business Feature Series — Oenomel Chocolates’ First Year Anniversary

Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s Services

Building Community

Services

Some of the Businesses We Featured

Connecting with Business Owners

North Vancouver Business Feature — Man Up Grooming

Local Restaurant Feature — Raisu Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Exclusive Interview with Raisu’s Assistant Manager

Inspiration for Opening Raisu and Providing Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Is University Important for Future Business Owners?

Yumi’s Philosophy

MILESTONES

A little About Mayumi — 10 Things You May Not Know About Me