I began my fashion journey at the age of seven. I remember the day clearly. My mom brought home an outfit and I didn’t like it. I told her from now on, not to buy clothes for me unless I was with her.
In 1999, I studied fashion design at the International Academy of Design and Technology (IAOD) in Toronto. First, I had taken textile design in high school for 2 years and, I won the textile design award in my senior year. After I completed the program and returned to Vancouver, I graduated from Vancouver Community College (VCC). And I was proud to wear my gown and cap to receive the Fashion Merchandising Certificate. I designed and constructed the black suede skirt while attending IAOD as well as the corset dress in the featured photo when I was at VCC Fashion.
Suede skirt I designed
Columnist
And then fast forward to 2022, I had my own column at Capilano Courier called “CapU, What Are You Wearing?”. In the column, I interviewed faculty and students on campus to ask about their outfits and in the process found out more about the people behind the clothes. It was a fun way to get to know the Capilano University community better and combine my love of vogue with my passion for writing.
Thrifted Fashion
Currently, my fashionista ways has turned thrift shopping into an addiction. If you are interested in having your own style and enjoy clothes shopping, you should start thrifting. It is like a modern day treasure hunt and adventure. The best part is you never know what unique items that you will find.
What’s more is that there are thrift stores all across Metro Vancouver, but some of the best are in East Van such as My Sister’s Closet, Miscellany Thrift and Vintage and Still Fabulous. And in North Vancouver, my favourite is Clothes For A Change and Good Stuff Connection. For online shopping, my favourite is my own pop-up boutique, Mobile Vintage By M and M and Facebook Marketplace. I created an Instagram and Facebook profiles dedicated to thrifted finds.
FI INC.
Finally, I launched my website in 2018 in combination with my digital marketing business FI INC. I started an interview series that I originally named Babes Promoting Babes where I featured local small business owners and the people behind the businesses.
If you would like to find out more about my blog and interview series read the interview on myself.
I discovered Little Pink Door Boutique (LPD) 3 years ago when I was on my lunch break at Northwoods Village, in North Vancouver, BC. I noticed their mannequins outside their store and they were having a sale.
I went in planning on just trying on a white off-the-shoulder blouse that I found on one of their mannequins but about 15 minutes later I walked out with the aforementioned blouse, white Joseph Ribkoff capris with pom-poms, sandals with bling AND a matching bracelet! I was preparing for the following year’s Le Diner en Blanc (i had just attended the exclusive event).
I met Deb that day and had a great time chatting with her. I thought she was the Owner of LPD but she said no, that would be her best friend, Colette Bennett.
M: When did you open Little PInk Door Boutique?
C: I opened Little Pink Door on March 1st, 2016! So this month actually marks our 5th Year Anniversary! Usually we do a big birthday celebration with an in-store event with live music, appys, and wine.
In the past, we have seen up to 90 women in attendance at our event. This year with the pandemic we won’t be able to do that! However it’s a big milestone for us as it is not only our 5th Birthday but also it’s the 5th year in a row that we have won Favourite Boutique on the North Shore with Reader’s Choice!
We are planning a Facebook Live Event on Thursday, March 25th from 7-8pm. We will do a fashion show, have tons of giveaways, announce our donation to Sage Transition. Still working out the details but want to make this a fun, engaging and memorable event!
M:Did you always want to own a clothing boutique?
C: So, I’ve always LOVED clothes and the Fashion World! I remember spending all my allowance on Fashion Magazines and would go through them page by page. However, I really hated the experience of shopping: finding unique items, the service and the overall process.
Back in 2011, I started to turn my dream into a reality and developed a business plan to open up a clothing boutique. I already knew I would name it Little Pink Door! I’ve had the domain for more than a decade and back then used the website to showcase my photographs. I have a huge passion photographing doors. And of course, PINK is my favourite colour hence — Little Pink Door!
Colette Bennett Owner of Little Pink Door Boutique
M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?
C: I was born and raised in North Vancouver and have lived here my entire life. I absolutely LOVE the North Shore and can’t think of a better place to live!
M: What was your inspiration for your business?
C: Well, my inspiration was to create a retail space that was completely unique to what was currently out there! My vision is to be a leading go to boutique destination for women by providing them with the perfect blend of product, customer focused experience in an in store environment that fosters friendship, trust and loyalty!
The inspiration for the store design was to make it feel like a beautiful dream walk-in closet filled with so many wonderful and beautiful things!
M:A little bird told me that you used to be in marketing. Did you enjoy your former career?
Yes, I was. And I still am! Marketing Little Pink Door is my passion! Back at LPD’s inception I developed the brand strategy, brand personality and logo. Today I look after all the marketing efforts including developing unique promotions, social media, and CRM (Customer Relationship Management).
M: What did you do prior to opening Little Pink Door?
C: Before opening Little Pink Door I worked in the Corporate world in Marketing for 25 years! I worked for some fabulous companies and some not so fabulous.
The one fabulous company I worked for was Starbucks for 10 years and was their Marketing Manager for Western Canada. It was at Starbucks where I learned and developed skills in brand marketing and understanding the importance of marketing an experience over simply a product or service.
It was the best education I have ever had and I believe what I learned from Howard Schultz (former CEO, Chairman and Founder of Starbucks) has helped define Little Pink Door and the success we’ve had to date.
M: Where did you study marketing or was it a profession you fell into? If you studied it, which institution did you attend?
C: Once I left high school I went to Emily Carr and wanted to become a professional Fashion Photographer. I finished the first year and got accepted into the photography program but couldn’t afford it!
From there I accepted an entry level position at a large company. They were willing to pay for my education part time so I decided that the most creative part of business was marketing so that’s what I decided to pursue. I went to BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) and did the Marketing Communications program all part time in the evening. It took 5 years to complete! A fabulous program and school!
Little Pink Door’s Positive Affirmations on IG
M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own boutique be?
C: From an emotional standpoint – don’t let anyone talk you out of your dream. Surround yourself only with people that help feed your passion and are positive. Stay the course.
From a business perspective – develop a robust business plan that includes all aspects of your dream business. Include financial forecasts, SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, competitive analysis, define your target market, and develop a marketing plan.
The business plan for LPD took me 2 years to develop and it became the foundation of my business. And I still do annual business plans that I share with my fabulous team of ladies who work with me so we are all aligned on where we are headed!
M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote you would like to share with everyone?
“Dream more than others think practical. Expect more than others think possible. Care more than others think wise!” — Howard Schultz
MILESTONES
M: Are there any milestones for Little Pink Door that you would like me to mention in the Business Feature?
C: As mentioned earlier, we are celebrating our 5th Year Anniversary with a live Facebook Event on Thursday, March 25th from 7-8pm! And we are also celebrating that we have won Reader’s Choice Awards for Favourite Local Boutique on the North Shore for the 5th year in a row!
If you would like to learn more about Little Pink Door Boutique visit their website, follow their Instagram, and their Facebook page to join the festivities for their 5th Year Anniversary.
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, and you, my subscribers.
To provide and build a warm, loving, and supportive community of CREATORS. Creators of art, a business, or a NEW YOU …
I met Gordon Tang when I was 14 years old before he started his salon, GT & Co Hair Studio on East 2nd in North Vancouver. My Mom had her hair done by him and recommended him to me. She said he was, “sugoku jouzu (which means really good or skillful in Japanese)”.
And I have been going to see Gordon since then for over 20 years. Mom was right — Gordon is great! If you ask him to only cut 1/2 an inch off that’s all he will cut. And so talented in the way he cuts and styles hair.
Once I find a person, company or product that I like, admire and enjoy — I stay loyal. I am that “sought after customer” that businesses dream about. Not only do I stay loyal to the company but I also spread the word. I created a hashtag on Instagram #fortheloveoflocal with a heart emoji and without for this exact purpose. I spread the word about a Local Business through my love for them.
So without further ado — It’s my pleasure to introduce you to Gordon, Owner of GT & Co and my stylist since I was in high school.
M: What’s your story? Where were you born, where were you raised? What was your childhood, growing up years like?
G: I was born and raised in the Hong Kong countryside. My childhood consisted of lots of farming and lots of pets.
M: What did you want to do when you grew up?
G: I wanted to be aprofessionalsoccerplayer.
M: Did you go to college or university? If so, what did you study?
G: I studied businessat Langara College and then I studied hair design at Vidal Sassoon in London, England.
M: When did you move to Vancouver? Why did you move to Vancouver?
G: I moved to Vancouver with my family in 1979 for a better education and more opportunities.
M: When did you start your business? What was your inspiration?
G: I started my business in 1986. I cut my friends’ hair in high school and it was then that I found my passion — I love to talk to people while hairdressing.
M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?
G: The ability to control my own finances, hours and being able to learn from my customers; and to have the ability to implement their good ideas.
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?
G: If you believe in yourself and your dreams and are willing to work hard, you willfind success
M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book?
G: My favourite quote is, “nothing ventured, nothing gained“.
Gordon is old school and does not have any social media platforms or website forhis salon. If you would like to make an appointment with him, please tell him that Mayumi sent you!
GT & Co Hair Studio is located at: 130 2nd St E, North Vancouver, BC and their phone number is: 604.988.9813. The salon hours are: Tuesday through Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
I had the pleasure of meeting beautiful and talented Henna Artist, Arneet Dua at a North Vancouver coffee shop opening party via Instagram. I was following the coffee shop on the social media platform and tickets were free on Event Brite.
But the biggest draw for me was having my hands decorated with henna. I always wanted to have it done and I was excited that I was getting my chance. Arneet was one of the Henna Artists there and she did my hands and my Mom’s.
She was so fast! And she did a beautiful job on both of our hands. Also, what stood out for me was Arneet’s charming personality –So grounded, sincere and personable. We exchanged business cards, Instagram handles and kept in touch. Fast forward 2 years and here I am interviewing her!
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 and you, my subscribers.
To build and provide 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?
A:I was born and raised in Punjab, India in a relatively open-minded family. Growing up, I was very creative and always into Arts & Crafts. My mother supported me to pursue my passion for Art and would sign me up for any Creative Art classes she couldfind.
I was raised in a huge family with 9 family members living under the same roof. My family was very supportive and encouraged me to be where I am today.
M: Did you go to college or university? If so, what did you study?
A: Yes, I actually have studied in various fields, I did my high school with a Commerce/Accounting specialization, then for Undergrad I studied Psychology as my major along with Home Economics to stay connected to my creative side. Idid my Masters in English Literature followed by a Post Graduate Degree in Child Guidance/Family Counselling in India.
M: Did you move to Vancouver or did you grow up here? Why did you move to Vancouver?
A: I moved to Vancouver in December 2014 as an international student to pursue my Post Graduate Degree.
M: When did you start your business? What was your inspiration?
A: I always wanted to be my own boss, my husband encouraged me in 2016 to take my Henna Art to next level and start doing it professionally. I have been doinghenna since I was 11 years old as a hobby.
In 2016 I shared with my husband that I wanted to start my own business but wasn’t sure what to do and how to begin. He suggested that since I love Art, this might be good opportunity to do it professionally.
We did some research in the current Lower Mainland market and saw there was huge potential in the wedding industry to make this business successful.
A close up of the Bridal Henna showcasing Arneet’s Artistry.
M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?
A: I think the best part is to be able to share my Art with other Boss Babes and inspire my fellow men & women to believe in themselves, take a leap and follow their dreams.
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?
A: I think it’s great timing for me to answer this question. I just left my 9-5 joblast Fall, I am now getting my Real Estate License and taking my Henna Arts business to the next level — full time.
It was a huge step and life changing decision. I feel I can offer so much more to my clients, give them the best customer service possible and follow my dream. It was bit scary, but totally worth it. I am happy be my own Boss now.
M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.
A:I recently came to the realization that life is too short to have any regrets, so now I try to follow my heart and try to fulfill all my realistic dreams (big or small) as much as I can. Life balance is the key.
We can do it, Boss Babes!
To see more of Arneet Dua’s Henna Artisty you can follow her Instagram and Facebook pages. And be sure to subscribe to Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC to read more from Arneet … She is our NEW Arts & Culture Contributor!
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, and you, my subscribers.
To provide and build a warm, loving, and supportive community of CREATORS. Creators of art, a business, or a NEW YOU …
In the mid 2000’s while I was studying Fashion Merchandising at VCC (Vancouver Community College), I was working part time as a receptionist at Beverly Ball Hair Design on West Esplanade in North Vancouver. It is unfortunately no longer, but when I was working there, and for as long as I can remember, I have admired the stunning dresses on display in the store front windows at Isabelle’s Bridal.
I recently featured their window displays on my Instagram and sought to find out more about the people behind Isabelle’s. The local bridal store is a perfect fit for my Babes Promoting Babes Interview Series. I am very honoured to introduce you to Kasia Bulva, one of the owners of the North Van iconic store.
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 Poland and lived thereuntil I was 9 years old. I grew up in a city called Sanok with my twin sister Basia (who also happens to be my business partner). Growing up in Poland was great but it was during Communism when life was quite difficult at times. My parents decided to immigrate our family to Canada to give us an opportunity for a better life.
Isabelle’s Bridal – Wedding Palette
M: What did you want to do when you grew up?
K: I was hoping to get into advertising. I’ve always had a passion for coming up with creative ways to sell and market products. As I grew older, I developed a passion for the art of selling and excellence in customer service.
M: Did you go to college or university? If so, what did you study?
K: I went to college and studied business development.
M: When did you move to Vancouver? Why did you move to Vancouver?
K: I moved to Vancouver in 1999. I was living in Toronto at the time and came to visit BC and I was hooked! It wasn’t long after that trip that I made the decision to move here.
M: When did you start your business? What was your inspiration?
K: My business was started in 2005 under different ownership. Funny thing is, I actually came in as a bride looking to purchase a veil. The previous owners and I had an instant connection. I felt like they had been my friends for years. After going home I quickly realized I wanted to spend more time with them so I became their first employee! I became the store manager and learned many valuable aspects of the wedding industry over the 10 years spent with them.
Isabelle’s Bridal – Sweet flower girl dresses by Ooh La La Boutique
After the fantastic 10 years the previous owners decided to change pace and close the store down which forced me to look for other employment options. Upon my search it quickly became evident that my passion was bridal and that I wanted to continue working in the industry. I then had this “it” moment! I literally sprung out of bed at 3am and said out loud to myself “I’m going to buy the store!”And I have now owned the store for 7 years.
M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?
K: I love having the freedom of choosing how I spend my time and the ability to make my own business decisions.
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: I would advise future Boss Babes to look within themselves and if what they are planning to do is really their passion. Running a business takes a lot of hard work and dedication. The 9 to 5 workday will not exist anymore and often you will take your work home with you in paper and emotional form.
Having said that, it is also very rewardingand exciting. Your business is your baby so you will need to make sure you do whatever it takes to make it run smoothly. Number one advice – get a very good bookkeeper!
M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book?
K Remember to keep it fun. Stay innovative and motivated. There will be great days and there will be not so great days. Always remind yourself that this a journey of your passion, enjoy the ride! My favorite quote is, “if you love your job, you’ll never work another day in your life”.
If you would like to see more of Isabelle’s Bridal’s beautiful wedding dresses follow their Instagram and visit their website to book an in-store or virtual appointment.
I have been enjoying the Babes Promoting Babes Interview Series so much that — I decided to interview myself …. Lol.
Answering my own interview questions is good way for you to get to know me better and what I’m passionate about.
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 and you, my subscribers.
To provide and build a warm, loving, and supportive community of CREATORS. Creators of art, a business, or a NEW YOU …
Q: What’s your story? Where were you born, where were you raised? What was your childhood, growing up years like?
A: I was born in Vancouver, BC — Yes, I am a true Vancouverite and proud of it! I grew up in East Van as an only child to Masako and Hiroaki Izumi. We’re Japanese, as you can see from our names… Hahahaha …
Q: What did you want to do when you grew up?
A: I wanted to be famous. Actress, singer, model, fashion designer. It’s funny because my Dad named me after a Japanese actress — Mayumi and an Italian Singer — Rosanna.
When I was 11, I wanted to be a lawyer. Very fitting as I am good at arguing my point.
Q: Did you go to college or university? If so, what did you study?
A: Yes, I studied Fashion Design at the International Academy of Design & Technology in Toronto, Ontario and Fashion Merchandising at VCC (Vancouver Community College).
Because I love to learn, I also completed the Small Business Program at VCC as well as the Applied Digital Communications & Social Media Program at Capilano University.
Right now I am in the Bachelor of Communications Program also at the university
Q: When did you move to Vancouver? Why did you move to Vancouver?
A: I was born and raised in Vancouver. But I lived inEdmonton, Alberta for 2 years and when my Mom (capitalized on purpose for respect to the woman who raised me on her own) & I moved back, we moved to North Van and I attended high school here.
I moved to Toronto in 1999 and lived there for 3 years to study Fashion Design as I mentioned above.
Q: When did you start your business? What was your inspiration?
A: I started FI INC in 2018. My inspiration was my love and passion for writing.
Q: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?
A:I love waking up and being excited about my day. What am I going to work on … How am I going to help my clients … What angle am I going to use to make my clients’ businesses shine …
I am an artist. Any outlet that allows me to use my creativity makes me happy.
Also, working at home is AWESOME!
Q: 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?
A: GO FOR IT! But do it with intelligence. Save money — 6months to 1 year of income to have a cushion while you’re building your business before you quit your day job.
I did not do this BUT it is ideal to feel safe while GOING AFTER YOUR DREAMS …
Q: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book?
A: My favourite quote is from one of my favourite books and authors:
“The seventh spiritual law of success is the Law of Dharma. Dharma is a Sanskrit word that means ‘purpose in life.’ The Law of Dharma says that we have taken manifestation in physical form to fulfill a purpose. The field of pure potentiality is divinity in its essence, and the divine takes human form to fulfill a purpose.” — Deepak Chopra
You have to do what makes you happy. When you find what that is and can make money doing it then you’re in Dharma.
I met Daisy Salvacion-Shields at VCC (Vancouver Community College) in the Fashion Merchandising Program in 2007. She was in some of my classes, but it wasn’t until after VCC that we connected on a personal level.
She is the talented artist who did my make-up and photos featured here, on Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC. Daisy was working on a project called, “Celebrate You” and she asked me if I wanted to be a part of it. I said, “YESSSS!”
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, and you, my subscribers.
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?
D: I was born in Calgary, Alberta but at a very young age moved to the tiniest town called Hope, BC.Childhood was full of fun, creativity and adventure. I learned to love theoutdoorsbut stayed a city girl at heart.
Bedroom walls consisted of magazine collages inspiring me with fashion and style, down time was dress-up with friends.I even organized my first fashion show in grade 7!
M: What did you want to do when you grew up?
D:So many things, and still do … ha! Singer, dancer, teacher, writer, andartist (I loved doing cartoon drawings of Betty and Veronica).
M: Did you go to college or university? If so, what did you study?
D:I was in the Film Program at Capilano University and also took Fashion Merchandising and Screenwriting courses at VCC.
M: When did you move to Vancouver? Why did you move to Vancouver?
D:2001, to go to Capilano U.
M: When did you start your business? What was your inspiration?
Parent company, DSS Creatives was just born this year. And under the umbrella of DSS, are two divisions.
The first is Conceptual Portraits, started in 2011, the focus is on Editorial Portraiture (photo shoots) . Bulan Productions is the second and newerdivision, with its first film made in 2017 and its focus is Digital Film Making.
Daisy making her first film in 2017.
My biggest inspiration is storytelling, especially when it can help to motivate others and DSS Creatives houses my two favourite mediums to do that with.
M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?
D:I’m doing work that is speaking to what I really love doing so it’s work that gives me energy back.
Energy to keep going as opposed to work that sucks the energy away. I am all about committing to a career that I love because life is too short.
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?
D: I’ve gone down that path. I quit my career of 15 years with a small amount of savings, support from my husband and no solid structure of what I was going to do next but a solid commitment to feed my soul. That’s it.
I knew what made me feel alive and I went in that direction. It’s been such a rewarding career ever since, monetarily, creatively.
So definitely, my advice is when you are at the point where you can’t ignore the whispers (they don’t go away for a reason) take the freaking leap. Of course it will be scary, but stay genuinely committed to your truth, whatever that may mean to you.
You are growing. It’s human. You’ll be met on the other side with synchronicities in your favour and I’m cheering for you!
M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book?
D: Favourite Book: “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron. It changed my life.
Favourite Quote: “When you want something, all the Universe conspires in helping you to Achieve it.” – Paulo Coelho
Daisy Salvacion-Shields is the founder of DSS Creatives, a creative agency that specializes in visual storytelling through its digital film-making division, Bulan Productions and its editorial portraiture division, Conceptual Portraits. Check out her Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/daisysalvacions/
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 and you, my subscribers.
To provide and build a warm, loving, and supportive community of CREATORS. Creators of art, a business, or a NEW YOU …
I met Sonja Brooke last year at Earnest Ice Cream in North Vancouver. We were introduced by Sarah Murray, Fashion Program Coordinator at VCC (Vancouver Community College) when she sent over Sonja, Fashion Merchandising student to help me organize my fashion show. For those of you who missed my last interview — “For the Love of Local” is my First Annual Fashion Gala and it is still in the works.
STUDENT?! –Sonja, with heels stands about 6 feet tall and wow, what a stunner! She is a former model and working actress, not to mention a Boss Babe with her own business, the Queen of the Closet, that she started with her daughter, Bella (left in the photo shown above).
M: What’s your story? Where were you born, where were you raised? What was your childhood, growing up years like?
S: Born in Australia – raised there, England and the States. My childhood was awesome, as were my parents.
M; What did you want to do when you grew up?
S: Growing up I wanted to be an artist and a News Broadcaster.
M: Did you go to college or university? If so, what did you study?
S:I went to Sydney University and studied Journalism.
M: When did you move to Vancouver? Why did you move to Vancouver?
S:My daughter was born in Vancouver but spent the first years of her life in Australia. We moved back to Vancouver about 15 years ago.
M: When did you start your business? What was your inspiration? What is the Queen of the Closet’s mission?
S:I am a gemologist by trade, but my love of the land and environment is what prompted the creation of The Queen of the Closet.
Our mission is simple — we spread the narrative that asks consumers to, “Buy better – Buy less – Save money and in turn save the planet”.
Sonja holding sustainable fashion handbag by Staud Clothing
M: What do you love the most about being a Boss Babe?
S:Hilarious, I never saw myself as a “Boss Babe”. I have always worked as a team. I am a very private person and always enjoyed taking the back seat.
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:I think it depends on the person and the situation. If a person is young and has no responsibilities by all means – JUMP!
It really depends. I have always taken calculated risks but then again, I have always had responsibility therefore I had to really think the situation through.
M: Any last words? What’s our favourite positive/motivational quote or book.
S: I always love to paraphrase a couple quotes by Maya Angelou – “When a person tells you who they are, believe them” and “Stop making someone a priority when they are making you an option”
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 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 – 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 – 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!!
What was once just for fun, has turned into a lifestyle and necessity for me. Through one of my Instagram alter egos, Miss M: https://www.instagram.com/missmsthriftyfinds/ – I am your guide to thrifting and share my thrifty finds that I purchase mainly via Facebook Marketplace sellers, but also at my favourite thrift store, Clothes For Change in North Vancouver and various other thrift stores sprinkled throughout our city such as BC SOS Thrift Stores in Steveston.
Thrifting brings me such joy. I plan a whole day around my Facebook Marketplace appointments and make it an adventure! On Saturday, I had two appointments in Port Coquitlam and invited my Mom, Mako to join me in my modern day treasure hunt.
We picked up a NYX eyeshadow palette for $10.00, an IKEA rug for ONLY $5.00, enjoyed lunch at Arisu where the food was so yummy that it immediately became my new favourite Korean restaurant. After lunch we went downstairs and did some grocery shopping at Hanam Supermarket.
The pricing was good at the market, fresh produce AND best of all they have a customer loyalty program in which they reward us with points and exclusive special prices. They gave me 3 key tags so I gave one to my Mom.
Hanam customer service actually recommended sharing their loyalty program with family and friends when they gave me the key tags. Great for sustainability and since Mako would be coming with me it only made sense that we would open just one loyalty account.
Thrift shopping, even if you’re just looking is a great way to spend the afternoon with friends or family. On Sunday, I met up with one of my BFFs and Big Sis, Mona on Commercial Drive in the heart of Vancouver thrift.
We went to Miscellany Finds for the first time and it is a huge store with lots of great thrifty finds! And the best part we didn’t spend a dime. A truly thrifty experience – we were just window shopping …
