Babes Promoting Babes – Shane of Goodlad Clothing

Grandpa Goodlad

I had the pleasure of meeting Shane Meier last year when I walked into Goodlad Clothing and introduced myself.

I chose to visit his store because I wanted to feature their Men’s Clothing in my First Annual Fashion Gala, “For the Love of Local”. And to my delight, Shane agreed on the spot. He was also a gracious host and gave me a tour of his store, barber & coffee shop — All contained in the one location.

Shane told me the reason he named his store Goodlad. It was his grandfather’s last name. Grandpa James Goodlad’s portrait was rendered by an amazing local artist, Kevin Keeler. It is hung in the center of Shane’s store & shown above .

A portion of my fashion show ticket sales will be donated to Not for Profit Organization, Harvest Project. Designer garments from their thrift store, Clothes For Change will be highlighted and 3 suits designed & constructed by VCC (Vancouver Community College) Fashion Design students will be auctioned and all proceeds will be going to help families in the Harvest Project program. Stay tuned, I will be announcing when and where the gala will be taking place when it is deemed safe to do so.

Goodlad Clothing
Goodlad Clothing Store – Men’s Fashion in North Vancouver

MY MISSION:  To motivate and inspire Boss Babes in the making. To uplift, encourage, and promote male & female entreprenuers and to share aspirations, goals and dreams with them.

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

M: What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like? 

S: I was born and raised in Saskatoon, Sask (Saskatchewan) but lived most of my life in the Lower Mainland.

Spent about 30 years in the Film/TV Industry both locally and in Los Angeles, as well as across most of Canada.  Currently live in Yaletown but cannot wait to get to the North Shore where my business GOODLAD is located.

M: What did you want to do when you grew up?  

S: I had ZERO clue. Lol … In FACT, I didn’t know what I wanted to do (for the rest of my life) until I was in my late 30’s.

Acting was a hobby and that was it. I was too small to play most sports as a kid so Film/TV performances were a natural fit for me and I was very fortunate to get work steadily as a kid.

M: Did you go to college or university?  If so, what did you study?

S: I did not. I moved to LA when I was 17 and lived there for a year. THAT was my post secondary education.

M: When did you move to Vancouver?  Where in Vancouver did you move to?

S: We moved from Saskatchewan around 1988. I lived and grew up in Coquitlam.

M: When did you start your business?  What was your inspiration?

S: Goodlad was born about 2 years ago. We officially opened for business in August 2018 so we are still new!

Inspiration came just wanting to be a business owner. I’ve always worked for myself my whole life in the Film World.

I wanted to open something special where people would gravitate towards. I wanted each person that comes through the doors to have a great experience.

Goodlad's Coffee Shop
Goodlad’s Coffee Shop – drink coffee & grab a breakfast sandwich or snack

M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?

S: If you ask ANY of my staff I DO NOT use the term BOSS in or around the shop. I am their colleague. Co-worker. Mentor. I just so happen to be the signing officer on their paychecks — That is it. 

I do, however, like being able to do just that. Mentor and point people in the right direction. 

I was once in their shoes. And learning from people with experience only helped push me in the direction I wanted to go. 

M; What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits – what would you say to them? Should they take the leap?

S: YES. Take the plunge. Commit. A lot of people get scared and stay in their 9-5’s and are miserable for most of their lives.

Goodlad - Barber Shop
Goodlad Barber Shop – get your hair cut, and a shave while you shop

Being an entrepreneur is one of the most exhilarating  experiences I have ever had. Stressful at times, but once you see what you have created for people, there is no better feeling.

I may have brought this mentality from my performing days…

M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.

S: Never be afraid. Attack projects with KNOWING that you will succeed. Hard work always pays off in the end.

Motivating books?? Gino Wickman writes a ton of VERY useful books for running anything from 2 to 2000 staff business. Very useful for me when opening Goodlad. 

And you cannot go wrong with Mr. Jordan Peterson’s “12 Rules of Life”. It’s a true game changer!!

Shane Meier is the Owner of Goodlad Clothing, North Vancouver’s premier Men’s Fashion store, barber & coffee shop all rolled into one. Very unique concept and a triple threat: https://www.goodladclothing.com/ and follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodladclothing/

Babes Promoting Babes – Eamonn of Green Coast Rubbish

Eamonn & Brother - BPB Interview Series

MY MISSION:  To motivate and inspire Boss Babes in the making. To uplift, encourage, and promote male & female entrepreneurs and to share aspirations, goals and dreams with them.

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

I had the opportunity to interview our first male Boss Babe this weekend and it was an absolute delightful experience!

I originally met Eamonn Duignan at the Lonsdale Ave Magazine launch party a few months ago and we were introduced by magazine founder, Adrian. It was an intimate gathering of North Shore business owners and fun was had by all.

Eamonn is the Owner & Founder of Green Coast Rubbish and his brother Cein is his partner (he is on the left in the photo). They have been in business since 2006 removing junk, disposing waste, deconstructing and taking care of any demolition needs their clients may have.

The name Green Coast comes from their commitment “to sustainable waste diversion practices and recycle or donate as much as possible of the useable goods they collect, thereby diverting waste from taking up precious space in local landfills.”

M: What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like? 

E: What’s my story? Starting with the easy questions!  I’m a Leo (if that means anything), and summer is my favourite season.

I was born in Dublin, Ireland, and moved to Canada when I was young. I was raised mostly in Ontario.  I was always focused on something, had way too much energy and was usually getting into some sort of trouble!

I have lived in North Van (North Vancouver) for the last 22 years or so and have been a part of a sport that has evolved from a few renegades building rogue trails to a legit community with an organized association and a world-respected trail network.

I am living in a place that is my mecca and very appreciative of this fact. I strive to achieve my daily goal of getting out for a ride with a cohort of incredibly talented and inspiring riders.

Eamonn's Mtn Biking Photo-Babes Promoting Babes Interview
Eamonn’s passion — mountain biking in North Vancouver

I have built a bootstrap business that I could never imagine possible; I am surrounded by a team and friends who inspire me professionally, as well as athletically. Basically, I am forging my own path, fumbling plays along the way, while still excited about learning.  

M: What did you want to do when you grew up?  

E: Great question! Honestly, I can’t really answer this question, but I would speculate, a deep-sea diver, race-car driver, professional mountain biker, an educator, and at one point, a geologist. When I grow up, I’ll let you know.

M: Did you go to college or university?  If so, what did you study?

E: I have a degree in Education and Human Kinetics from UBC (Certified Teacher but I have never taught). I also have a Diploma in Forestry and I went to Cap U for 2 years.

When did you move to Vancouver Why did you move to Vancouver?

E: I moved to BC (British Columbia) in ’89 because I wanted something more. At the time I was racing mountain bikes and was somewhat motivated by that. But mostly by the fact that I was at a party, a few evenings before, and promised a friend that I would accompany him on a cross country adventure.

M: When did you start your business?  What was your inspiration?

E: May 6th, 2006 was the day that our doors officially opened! I thank my younger brother, Cein for holding my hand and pushing me to make it happen. He was my sounding board and our founding partner.

My inspiration was simple, I was introduced to a niche industry I knew very little about, and me being me, saw a better way, took the leap, and held fast.

Fourteen years and counting. In short, I would say happenstance and seizing an opportunity. Chance, luck, timing, or just an openness to exploring the unknown — Maybe all of those things, or none of them

M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?  Men can be Babes too… 

E: 100%! Boss and babe aren’t gender-specific!

What I love the most is the learning, the daily challenges, and affecting change in the community I call home, as well as the inspirational team of fantastic individuals who share the same passion for life. 

I also really cherish the creativity and problem-solving I get to practice everyday in my role.

M: What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits – what would you say to them? Should they take the leap?

E: My advice — know your numbers, be kind, have a solid purpose, give back when you can, and most importantly, treat your team well.

Don’t be motivated by potential margins, let passion lead, and all else will follow.  Expect to fail, reflect, learn, and move forward.

M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.

E: Don’t forget to smile and get outside!   

Fave quote = Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving — Albert Einstein

Eamonnn Dunignan is the Founder & Owner of Green Coast Rubbish. Eamonn & his brother, Cein have been in business since 2006. If you would like to learn more about their company or the services they provide, check out their website: https://www.greencoastrubbish.com/ and follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greencoastrubbish/

Babes Promoting Babes – Jessica of JC Inspired Wellness

Jessica's Photo - Babes Promoting BabesI Interview

I had the pleasure of meeting Jessica Cerato at Steve Nash Fitness Club in North Vancouver, BC when she was substituting for another one of the instructors. I liked her immediately and her style of teaching much better than the instructor she was subbing.

She is full of energy, vibrancy and openness. And a motivating and encouraging Fitness Instructor.

Jessica is also the Founder of JC Inspired Wellness and is a Certified Essential Oil Specialist. She consults, sells, and educates her clients on doTERRA Essential Oils.

MY MISSION:  To motivate and inspire Boss Babes in the making. To uplift, encourage, and promote male & female entrepreneurs and to share aspirations, goals and dreams with them.

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

M: What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like?

J: I was born and raised in a small town in Pennsylvania.  As a middle child of two teachers, I was involved and active in a lot of things growing up. 

I loved anything to do with a team, so was drawn to sports.  I battled with weight growing up, but my activity kept it at a manageable level.

M: What did you want to do when you grew up? 

J: So many things!  I wanted to be an author, a professional chef, a news anchor – basically everything except what I am doing now!

M: Did you go to college or university?  If so, what did you study? 

J: I went to American University in Washington, DC to play Division 1 Field Hockey and study International Business and Finance.  I spent a year abroad in Madrid, so I also minored in Spanish.

M: When did you move to Vancouver?  Why did you move to Vancouver? 

J: After graduation and 2 weeks before set to start my career on Wall Street, I decided to alter course and went to work on a cruise ship! 

I spent 7 years at sea managing the onboard Youth Program and during that time, met my now, husband.  He is from Vancouver, and after sailing out of this amazing city for an Alaskan season – I fell in love with both him and Vancouver! 

M: When did you start your business?  What was your inspiration? 

J: I became a Fitness Instructor in 2010, and was inspired to make fitness accessible to all. 

You see, I battled with my weight all my life and my relationship with food and fitness overcame me in my early 20’s.  At 210 pounds, I felt horrible — both mentally and physically. 

I was living in Miami at the time and inspired to do something about it, I walked into my neighborhood gym.  I stood in the lobby for 20 minutes.  No one helped me.  No one even acknowledged me. 

And I left that day, inspired to do it for myself and everyone else who feels invisible.  My philosophy is to make my classes accessible to all — to have fun, and join together to lift each other up.

I kept teaching through my two pregnancies and felt awesome.  However, after going back to work in 2017 after the birth of my second daughter, I struggled. 

Struggled to sleep, struggled with debilitating headaches, struggled with my emotions.  I was medicating with chemicals that I knew my body couldn’t sustain long term, and I knew I wanted better.

Then, I found essential oils.  They started out helping with my physical ailments, but over time offered so much more support.  I became obsessed with learning, and got my Essential Oil Specialist Certification. 

After seeing what they did for my family, I was again inspired to help others get help too.  And so I partnered with doTERRA and became a Wellness Advocate. 

Now, I educate and help those looking for natural solutions, on what essential oils are, and how to use them. 

I am so passionate about bringing both sides of my business together.  Not just physical fitness, but emotional health and wellness too.  JC Inspired Wellness was born in 2019.  Many think JC is my initials, but the abbreviation and inspiration is actually Justine and Charlie – my two kids.

In addition to teaching fitness classes at studios, I also founded and offer signature programs of my own – “Squats with Tots,” “Barre with Babies,” and “Yoga Birthday Parties for Kids.”

M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe? 

J: That’s easy.  Helping others.  Whether it’s teaching a step class, flowing through yoga, offering sleep solutions, teaching green cleaning classes, or just holding a baby while their Mom does squats — it’s the connection, knowing we are all in this together that I truly love.

M: What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits — what would you say to them? Should they take the leap? 

J: Do what’s in your heart. 

I look back at my life, and see so many times when I decided to pivot.  From Wall Street to Cruise Ship, from the US to Canada … And I continue to pivot. 

It’s not about choosing a path and making it your goal forever, it’s about living life and doing it your way — Whatever that looks like for you.

M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book. 

J: So many that have made a difference in my life.  But for this audience, anyone contemplating going out on their own, I love Cathy Heller’s, “Don’t Keep Your Day Job,” podcast and book. 

And, don’t feel like you have to have it all together, all of the time.  It’s okay if you fall apart sometimes.  Tacos fall apart and we still love them. 

You are enough, just as you are. 

Jessica Cerato, Owner of JC Inspired Wellness, believes health and wellness is for everyone. Through fitness classes and natural health supports like essential oils and mindset mantras, she works with individuals and families to reach their goals.

To learn about Jessica’s tips, tricks, and inspiration on living your best life while sharing her own perfectly imperfect one, follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jcinspiredwellness/

And if you would like to purchase doTERRA Essential Oils, or book a wellness consultation with her: https://linktr.ee/jcinspiredwellness

Babes Promoting Babes – Nicole of Loopilasso

Nicole of Loopilasso

MY MISSION:  To motivate and inspire Boss Babes in the making. To uplift, encourage, and promote male & female entrepreneurs and to share our aspirations, goals and dreams.

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

I would like to introduce you all to Nicole Hiebert of Loopilasso. She is a master crocheter, and mother to an adorable little girl but don’t let that fool you — she’s as tough as nails. I am very happy that she agreed to be a part of my Babes Promoting Babes Interview Series.

M: What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like? 

N: I was born in 1989 in Calgary, Alberta. The first 12 years of my life were relatively normal. My dad was a school photographer, ran his own business, so he was always working and always on the road. My mother was a stay-at-home mom after having me. She then had two boys and a girl. She was always very busy with that, housework, and just being a mom.

I spent a lot of time alone or taking care of my brothers and sister. Everything was as it should be, up until 2002 when my mother left my dad and also my brother and I. She took my younger two siblings and moved away. At the same time my dad lost his business, declaring bankruptcy, the house and everything due to the separation.

From this point forward my life was completely different and difficult. I switched between 6 schools in 2 years and moved many times. My dad had a very hard time being a single parent of two children. I was 13, very confused, angry, and sad. We moved to Kelowna and we didn’t have anything.

High school was extremely difficult . I had no friends, I was bullied and even beaten up. But I made it through. As soon as I could move away, I did. And I’ve been on my own ever since.

M: What did you want to do when you grew up?  

N: I wanted to be many things growing up! I wanted to be a mother. I wanted to be a photographer. I wanted to be a veterinarian. I wanted to be a fashion designer for Barbie dolls. I wanted to be an actor. I wanted to be a counsellor. I wanted to be a TV chef.

M: Did you go to college or university?  If so, what did you study?

N: I attended VCC (Vancouver Community College) and I took the Nursing Unit Clerk program.

M: When did you move to Vancouver? Why did you move to Vancouver?

N: I moved to Vancouver in 2008 to attend VCC and shortly after graduating I started working at Lions Gate Hospital. Although I really enjoyed my job, and I miss it every day, life doesn’t always go the way we plan.

I worked at the hospital for almost five years and then I really struggled for the next 5 years.

I have been gradually getting my life back on track since 2014 and directed in the way I want to go.

M: When did you start your business?  What was your inspiration?

N: I started my business and 2017 and in the beginning I called my business Loops & Press. With the help of my best friend, an amazing graphic designer, we started Loops & Press to showcase not only my crochet talents but her printed works of art. I was the loops, she was the press. 

In 2019, I decided to go solo and change my business name to Loopilasso. I’m inspired by many things. I have a lot of creative ideas and  I love to make things my inner child would enjoy playing with … I love to create cute, unique, and sometimes crazy things.

M; What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?

N: I love having full creative control over what I’m doing. I love being able to have a thought or have an idea and manifest it. I love using my talent and skill to able to do and make whatever I want.

M: What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits – what would you say to them? Should they take the leap?

N: It would be very scary to leave a secure nine-to-five job with benefits and jump into something completely unknown with no promise of success.  However, life would be pretty boring if you didn’t take any risks.

If you feel like your heart is longing for something more, then you should find it, and you should go after it.

M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.

N: It’s never too late to change your life.

Crochet has been very therapeutic for me. I taught myself to knit and crochet in 2015.

It was around this time that I decided to quit smoking cigarettes. I had been a very heavy smoker for 12 years. Learning to crochet was an absolute perfect distraction for my hands and mind. 

My success in quitting smoking and my new found hope for my future helped me with the courage to work on my other issues. 

My problem was alcohol.  And it was a serious one. A genetically crippling one. It controlled my life and I wanted to take that control back.

I quit drinking in 2016 and put all my energy and emotions in learning to create things for other people — To make them feel happy and bring them joy with this craft. All that time I would of spent drinking went into learning and practicing crochet. I feel like a totally new person with a passion and fire for life.

Success is not easily acquired. It takes hard work, dedication, and passion. Sometimes it’s not always clear where your life is headed. But if you listen to your heart and do what’s right, you will get where you want to go, and achieve your dreams.

My beautiful 1 1/2 year old daughter is now my main reason for continuing to better myself and make good choices. She inspires me and is already very supportive of my work. She loves the different hats and toys I make for her.

I hope to make her proud with my work and one day share my knowledge and skills with her.

Nicole Hiebert is the wicked crocheter behind Loopilasso. If you would like to see her FUN & cute creations check out her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loopilasso/

Babes Promoting Babes – Fawn Gill Fitness

Fawn Gill Fitness

I am pleased to announce that Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC’s very own Fitness Contributor, Fawn of Fawn Gill Fitness is our Babe in the Spotlight. I had the opportunity to interview her this week for our Babes Promoting Babes Interview Series.

MY MISSION:  To motivate and inspire Boss Babes in the making. To uplift, encourage, and promote male & female entrepreneurs and to share our aspirations, goals and dreams.

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

M: What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like?

F: Well, I am a BC (British Columbia) girl, born and raised but I did move around a lot when I was young. I was born in Surrey, BC and lived there, as well as in, Richmond, Clearbrook, Williams Lake, Kamloops, The Okanagan, Vancouver and then Bowen Island for 18 years. I currently reside in North Vancouver and have for the last 2 years.

My childhood was a tumultuous one. I’m the youngest of 3 girls born to my biological parents. But they got divorced when I was about 3 or 4 and my two older sisters moved to Prince George to live with my biological dad and I lived with my mom and stepdad in the Lower Mainland. I never saw my sisters again until I was 16 and never met my biological dad till I was 36.

My stepdad was an RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) officer, which is why we moved around a lot. And there was a lot of stress in my household. I have a younger brother as well.

So, although there were some great times growing up, there were a lot of not great times and I received the brunt of everyone’s issues and stress.

M: What did you want to do when you grew up?  

F: Oh, I wanted to be a model, a singer or an actor. LOL

M: Did you go to college or university?  If so, what did you study?

F: I went to Blanche MacDonald right after high school to become a make-up artist and esthetician. That never panned out.

And then I worked for many years in offices until finding my true calling …. Recreation. So I went to Langara College for Recreation Management for 2 years and received my diploma in 1997.

I’ve also done a bunch of University courses throughout the years, I just never got a degree.

M: When did you move to Vancouver?  Why did you move to Vancouver?

F: I moved to Vancouver literally the day after I finished my final grade 12 exam, 1988. LOL Why? Well, if you read about my childhood …. I wanted out of that house ASAP.

 M: When did you start your business?  What was your inspiration?

F: I started Fawn Gill Fitness on Bowen Island in 2000. My inspiration was my first child, actually. We had just bought a house there and set up our basement as a personal training studio. Then my first baby came along and I thought, wouldn’t it be great to teach a mommy & me class and meet other moms?!

So that’s pretty much how it started. My business grew rapidly from there as I was also teaching fitness classes very part time. And then I opened up my own gym in 2007 and ran that for 9 years until I sold it. 

M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?

F: Freedom! And creativity! I love being able to set my schedule and I really, really love the creative side of it. Being able to design and implement programs is so much fun for me.

M: What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits – what would you say to them? Should they take the leap?

F: My advice to (future) Boss Babes is to start smart. Keep that 9-5 job until your side hustle is capable of being a full-time hustle. And if you do decide to jump in full-time, make sure you have at least 6 months of savings put aside first.

And then network, network, NETWORK! A lot of success is a result of who you know. I’ve seen so many people become very successful simply because of the company they keep. They weren’t the best at what they do, but they certainly knew the right people.

M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.

F: Oh I have so many favourite quotes. Currently it’s ‘May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.’ Nelson Mandela

Babes Promoting Babes – Keleka of Keleka Designs PART 2

Keleka Designs Hawaiian Beach Photo

For those of you who missed my last blog, I interviewed Keleka, Founder of Keleka Designs. She designs Hawaiian themed flame-less candles inspired by her love of the islands.

The following blog is Part 2 and a continuation of my insightful interview with her.

M:  When did you start Keleka Designs?  What was your inspiration?  

K:  In 2019 I decided to tell my advertising job of 12 years in Nevada that I was going to follow my dreams.  They were great about it since I did so well for them for such a long time.  They said whatever I wanted to do was fine, so I cut my hours to part time with them to pursue my passions. 

This is when Keleka Designs was born. I’ve always loved lighting candles in my yard in the evening, with the pool and the ambience that it created.  But with the extreme heat in Nevada, the wax candles always melted, even at night!  So, I had the idea of designing beautiful Hawaiian flame-less candles that never melt.  

I started creating my designs on Photoshop and began sending my flame-less candles to family members.  The response was overwhelmingly positive!  I also started making Rasta/Hawaiian incense holders, which also received a warm response. 

And, once I focused on building my own website, working on my social media platforms, and creating more flame-less candle designs, the response was phenomenal.  I was selling candles! The exhilaration to create and design my own candles is so fulfilling that I wake up every morning excited to produce more!

My inspiration is my love for the Hawaiian Islands.  I consider Hawaii my second home and my husband and I go home every year but our work schedule makes it hard to get back as often as we would like to.

Due to Covid-19, my part time advertising job is on hold and I know that it’s a hard time for many. The current situation causes me to rethink life and what is really important: my family, my health and going after my ambitions. I am dedicated to work hard to continue to offer creative, heartwarming Keleka Designs into your home.

I am now shipping all over the USA and internationally too. I have plans to continue to grow my business and create new designs every week.

M:  What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?

K:  I love being my own boss, making my own schedule, fulfilling my dreams, inspiring others, connecting with people like you, Mayumi. I love to connect with honest, motivated people, so, we can all support each other with our aspirations.

It’s such a rewarding feeling! Everyday, I learn more and educate myself to become more successful with Keleka Designs.

M:  What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits – what would you say to them? Should they take the leap?

K:  It took me a long time to take a leap.  Be sure to always have a backup plan.  Have some income coming in while you start planning to follow your dreams. 

Starting a new business isn’t easy and takes a lot of hard work and dedication. But if you are passionate about it, you will figure a way to do it. 

Go for it.  It’s rewarding, fulfilling, and eventually you will succeed.  If your first idea doesn’t work, come up with a new one.  Keep at it, as persistence will pay off!

If you would like to learn more about Keleka and her Hawaiian flame-less candles and Rastafarian incense holders you can see them on her website: https://www.kelekaart.com/

Babes Promoting Babes – Keleka of Keleka Designs PART 1

Keleka Designs

I was inspired to interview Keleka, founder of Keleka Designs because of her positivity and Aloha spirit. She embodies BPB’s (Babes Promoting Babes) most important pillar which is to motivate others to follow their dreams. She designs Hawaiian themed flame-less candles and home decor.

My Dad used to live in Hawaii and I used to visit him on my summer vacations. I share Keleka’s love for the islands.

M:  What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like? 

K:  I was born in New Jersey but shortly after I was born my family moved to California. We moved over 3,000 miles away because my father was a professor at Cal Poly University in San Luis Obispo. 

I absolutely loved growing up in California.  The Central Coast is so beautiful. Rolling hills, vineyards, farm life and the beaches.  We were always at the beach: fishing, clamming, boogie boarding, surfing, etc. 

I was also very involved in sports since a young age.  I started playing basketball on the boys’ teams, as they didn’t have sports for girls yet.  Then I progressed into soccer and softball.  My father actually helped start girls’ softball in San Luis Obispo.  I even became female athlete of sports in my graduating class.

And I won some local awards for art in my high school art classes.  School, family, friends, the beach, and art. It was an active and fun life.  Oh, and we traveled! I was 4 years old when we first traveled to the Hawaiian Islands.

I fell in love with the islands. The music, the culture, the art, the people. The Aloha spirit.  So, we continued to travel to the islands and the Jersey Shore throughout my growing years.  The Big Island, Hawaii captured my heart.  Hawaii has and still is inspiring my art and my dreams.

M:  What did you want to do when you grew up? 

K:  I always wanted to be a professional softball player or compete in the Olympics. By the time I finished high school and after receiving a full scholarship to Baylor University for softball, I decided I didn’t want to pursue softball full-time.

It was at this point in my life when I really started to get into art. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do but I loved to paint and decorate.

So, I traveled to Hawaii and after some time off I decided to go to a community college to figure out what I wanted to do with my future.  After returning to California,  I knew I wanted to be an art professor or Junior College teacher in the field of Public Art.

M:  Did you go to college or university?  If so, what did you study?

K:  I attended a Junior College for 2 years to fulfill my requirements for a larger University. After I graduated from there, I decided to go to CSUMB (California State University Monterey Bay). 

I studied Visual and Public Art.  I LOVED IT.  I worked with the community, with at risk youth, seniors in nursing homes, all involved with art.  I taught mural painting skills, watercolor classes and became involved with the community, which filled my heart and soul.  I was very successful and very happy.

M:  When did you move to Nevada?  Why did you move to Nevada?

K: Life happens, and my family became my priority.  My father was ill at the time that I graduated college, so I left some art opportunities in Monterey and Carmel.  However, it all turned out great.  I went into advertising and marketing after attending college in California for 8 years.

The money was good, so I kept doing it. It wasn’t my passion but was fulfilling for the time. Unfortunately, my Mom and Dad divorced, and I helped my mom and brother move out in Nevada. 

I have been doing advertising and marketing here in NV for 12 years.  The greatest day was when I met my husband in 2014 and got married in 2016.  Still doing my advertising but I decided it was TIME FOR ME TO follow my dreams ...

Babes, Part 2 will be posted SOON so make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss it!

If you would like to learn more about Keleka and her Hawaiian flame-less candles and Rastafarian incense holders you can see them on her website: https://www.kelekaart.com/

Babes Promoting Babes Interview Series Launch

Daisy Logo

I’m very excited to announce the launch of my Babes Promoting Babes Interview Series. The first Boss Babe to be interviewed is Brigitte Besner, one of the Owners of Daisy … Sandwiches & Such.

MY MISSION:  To motivate and inspire Boss Babes in the making. To uplift, encourage, and promote male & female entrepreneurs and to share aspirations, goals and dreams with them.

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

I had the opportunity to interview Brigitte a couple of days ago and it was timed synchronistically. Daisy will be re-opening for takeout on Monday, April 27th. I am a fan and am very happy!

M:  What’s your story?  Where were you born, where were you raised?  What was your childhood, growing up years like? 

B:  I was born in the province of Quebec in a small town called Verdun.  Family of 4. Younger brother. Both parents worked until they decided to open their own restaurant (diner).  My mother’s parents had their own diner already. So I basically grew up in a diner all my life.

M:  What did you want to do when you grew up?  

B:  Lawyer.  But my father was hoping for me to join the family business so I went a different path.  At that time my parents owned a chain of Italian restaurants.

M: Did you go to university?  If so, what did you study?

B:  No, I did not go to university but I went to a hospitality management school in Montreal.  L’Institut de Tourisme et D’Hôtellerie du Québec.

M:  When did you move to Vancouver?  Why did you move to Vancouver?

I moved to Vancouver in 1991 for work.  I worked in a small restaurant in Maple Bay near Duncan on the Island.  After I moved to Vancouver and worked in different hotels as a server, banquet server and front desk.  Eventually I was offered a position in a hotel in Lebanon for 6 months for Food and Beverage Management … When I came back, I was transferred to a hotel in Montreal (of all places LOL!!) for a year and came back to Vancouver.  Most of my career in BC was mainly in hotel settings. 

 M: When did you start Daisy … Sandwiches & Such? I know the story but how did you name Daisy’s?

B:  We opened Daisy’s in May 2011. My daughter said she wanted to be famous when she grew up so I said okay, here’s your chance.  I named the restaurant after her. Her name is Charlotte Daisy.

6) What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?

B:  I guess what I like (or liked ) — the control over the “creative” aspects.  

When you are working for someone, you are working at bringing THEIR vision to life.  Even if sometimes you think you know better, and you bring in ideas or feedback to your employers, it is still their dream and vision.

When you are your own boss, you are in charge of every aspect of your vision and your dream.

And from that point on, you build yourself a team that will help you bring your dream and vision to life.  In the process you hope that you are empowering and giving tools to another person to go out and take a leap of faith and start their own business.

M:  What would your advice be for Boss Babes in the making?  If they are contemplating leaving a secure 9-5 job with benefits – what would you say to them? Should they take the leap?

B: THINK about the reason — If you’re in it for the money, you’re not going to make money right away. DO IT IF:  

1) You’re passionate about your service or product.

2) You are excited to be your own boss.

3) You can talk to people in the industry first.  Ask them questions. Questions like, what would they have done when they first opened their business that they didn’t know, but know now.

4) You have the ability to delegate tasks.  It makes a HUGE difference. When you delegate tasks, you can FOCUS your time and energy on what generates MONEY.  If you try to DO EVERYTHING yourself, your creativity dries up …

M:  Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.

B:  Being in business is being in a relationship. You are in a relationship with your customers.

Like every relationship to function, some compromises will have to be made. Choose how much and what kind of compromises you are willing to make to keep your relationship with your relationship with your guest healthy and balanced.

When you make too many compromises, you dilute the essence of who you are, of what your business is all about.

It’s a thin line to walk, but it’s very important to learn how to walk it.

But most important, always work from a place of gratitude.

Daisy … Sandwiches & Such is located at 1089 Roosevelt Crescent in North Vancouver.  Their menu is on their website: https://daisysandwiches.com/ and the restaurant will be re-opening for takeut on Monday, April 27th.