Fresh Magazine Issue #44

MAGAZINE b e a u t y, f a s h i o n & l i f e s t y l e

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BREAT H

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FRAI CHE

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ISSUE 44 • APRIL 2018 freshmag.ca

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CONTENTS Issue 44 • April 2018

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FUEGO

by Holly Decker

Q&A WITH DR. ALLISON SUTTON

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BEAUTY BUZZ 411

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TORI WESSZER: THE MAKING OF A LIFESTYLE GURU

by Crystal Jensen

by Faye Alexander

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THE DEIGHTON CUP: WHAT TO WEAR

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INTRODUCING CERTIFIED ACNE COACH: LEAH LAVANWAY

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5 STEPS TO DESIGN YOUR LIFE

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IN HONOUR OF MOTHER’S DAY

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WOMEN INC.: KATHLEEN NABANGXANG

by Jessica Clark

by Tonia Mattu

by Dr. Kelvin P. Mah

by Faye Alexander

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PUBLISHER Shelly Lynn Nellis shelly@freshmag.ca .....................................................................

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

W

e would like to welcome you to our 44th rendition of Fresh Magazine! This issue we focus on Art Vancouver, produced

by Lisa Wolfin, is an international art fair showcasing the work of artists and galleries from Canada and around the world. This annual event takes place April 19–22 under the sails of the beautiful Vancouver Convention Centre East. There will be guest speakers, art tours and an opening night gala that is sure to entertain any and all who attend.

Our Fresh cover girl this issue is Nutritionist and highly successful Influencer Tori Wesszer. Tori is originally from Northern Alberta but now lives in Kelowna and she has one of the most beautiful Instagram feeds you will ever see (@fraichenutrition).

We love everything about Tori! Read on to see beautiful photos of Tori styled by Canadian celebrity stylist and fashion expert Kim Appelt and hear her story.

Our Women Inc. features Entrepreneur Kathleen Nabangxang and she is bringing a very exciting program to Vancouver that has been hugely successful in Toronto. Every issue Holly Decker (amazing Makeup Artist) and Erin Crooks (talented Photographer) produce such beautiful imagery that tell a story, this issue it is called FUEGO to inspire the fire inside of you.

Have you checked out our Social Media channels? We have lots of contests and Behind the Scenes videos and photos, you will enjoy: Facebook: @freshmagazinecanada Instagram: @fresh_mag Twitter @freshcanada

Shelly Lynn Nellis Publisher shelly@freshmag.ca

Crystal Carson carson@cncconsultinginc.com .....................................................................

ART DIRECTOR Flora Chen flora@freshmag.ca .....................................................................

NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER Kristal Barrett-Stuart kristal@freshmag.ca .....................................................................

CONTRIBUTORS Faye Alexander, Matthew Chen, Jessica Clark, Erin Crooks, Holly Decker, Crystal Jensen, Leah LaVanway, Dr. Kelvin P. Mah, Tonia Mattu, Dr. Allison Sutton .....................................................................

COVER PHOTO CREDITS Photographer: Sharla Pike Stylists: Kim Appelt Makeup Artist: Jenny McKinney Tori wears: Wilfred for Aritzia Chablais Pant, Wilfred for Aritzia Crevier Knit Top .....................................................................

Fresh Magazine publishes six issues per year.

Please send all questions, comments and inquiries to: FRESH MAGAZINE Suite 451-15216 North Bluff Road White Rock, BC, Canada V4B 0A7 Tel: 1-877-905-7771 Fax: 604-591-1989 Email: info@freshmag.ca www.freshmag.ca Fresh Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect those of Fresh Magazine publishers, editors or staff. Readers are encouraged to consult with their health professional before embarking upon exercise, medical or nutritional changes. Contents of Fresh Magazine are copyright 2018, all rights reserved. Fresh Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the publisher.

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Photographed by ERIN CROOKS Makeup by HOLLY DECKER MODEL: KYARRA MAYLEE (MASALA MODELS & TALENT) HAIRSTYLIST: KASSY MOEN

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“THEY SAID WHEN SHE WAS BORN, SHE HAD A FIRE IN HER HEART AND A STORM BREWING IN HER SOUL.” – JORDAN SARAH WEATHERHEAD

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“AND ONE DAY SHE DISCOVERED SHE WAS FIERCE, AND STRONG, AND FULL OF FIRE, AND THAT NOT EVEN SHE COULD HOLD HERSELF BACK BECAUSE HER PASSION BURNED BRIGHTER THAN HER FEARS.” – MARK ANTHONY

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”LOOK A LITTLE CLOSER IN THOSE DELICATE EYES. HER HEART’S A WILD CREATURE AND HER SOUL’S ON FIRE.” – NORE HEART

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Microneedling is the treatment everyone is asking about. It’s been a hot topic on TV and radio talk shows, the web and every social media outlet that exists. Patients love it for its ease and impressive results.

Physicians love it’s versatility—it can be used to treat many different skin conditions and is quite safe to use on different skin types. If you have questions about it, this should help to give you some answers.

THE BASICS In my office, microneedling is performed with an adjustable pen containing 13 tiny needles which can reach depths up to 2.0 mm in the skin. They are incredibly tiny compared to traditional needles and even gentle enough to be used around the delicate eye area. The whole procedure takes approximately 60 minutes from start to finish with the lengthiest amount of time spent numbing the skin. Generally speaking, patients will have a series of three to six treatments every four weeks with maintenance treatments every six months.

WHAT DOES MICRONEEDLING HELP TO TREAT? Microneedling is a minimally-invasive procedure with a very low side effect profile that works for all skin tones and many skin conditions.

It helps to stimulate your body to build it’s own collagen which over time softens fine lines and wrinkles, especially those stubborn lines around the lips and smile lines in the cheeks. It can soften acne scars and other types of scars and is excellent at decreasing pore size.

DOES IT HURT? It may sound scary—13 tiny needles in the skin—but the truth is that this procedure is very well tolerated; most people say it’s painless.

A numbing cream is applied for 30 minutes before the procedure starts. Then, the procedure is performed by one of our registered nurses. During the procedure, a serum filled with vitamins, minerals, hyaluronic acid, and collagen boosters is applied right into the tiny holes created. Afterwards, a mask is placed on the face to lock all the amazing ingredients in and to soothe the skin.

TO DIY OR NOT

Q&A WITH

With the popularity of microneedling on the rise, you can find a lot of online stores selling DIY kits. While they can be marginally effective, it’s highly recommended that you do not conduct this procedure on your own. Most DIY products are rollers which can tear the skin and therefore, carry risks. Also, the type of roller you can buy may not be as high quality as the one your doctor uses. At home procedures come with risks like infection, depigmentation, and scarring. Microneedling at its core, creates a wound on the skin. If your home isn’t completely sterile (which it most likely isn’t), you risk damaging your skin even further.

IS MICRONEEDLING FOR ME? Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that has shown great results for patients across the world. It has many benefits for your skin and can be used to improve fine lines, scars, discoloration and more. If you’re interested in trying microneedling or you have any further questions, please call us at 604-428-6692 to book your cosmetic consultation with Dr. Sutton! ______________________________________________________

SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

Dr. Sutton is a Board Certified Dermatologist with specialized cosmetic training.

She received her medical degree from the University of British Columbia, completed her residency in Dermatology at the University of Toronto, and did a fellowship in Aesthetic Dermatology in San Antonio, Texas. She is both a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada as well as a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.

TIPS AND BEAUTY SECRETS FROM CONSUMMATE BEAUTY PRO CRYSTAL JENSEN!

Cooling Chamomile When it comes to lip love, EOS provides lasting hydration and comfort. With our changing weather, our lips can become dry and irritated and I could not believe how fast-acting “Cooling Chamomile” was at getting them back in top shape. It is jampacked with nourishing ingredients like soothing chamomile and aloe, hydrating butters and rich vitamin E. Pucker up at EvolutionOfSmooth.com

ifer Williams photo by Jenn

Total Temptation They say the eyes don’t lie and with “Total Temptation” washable mascara from Maybelline, you’ll be telling nothing but the truth. And the truth is, this product lets you build incredibly irresistible lashes swipe after swipe. Enriched with coconut extract, my lashes were beautifully soft with bold volume. A definite staple in my makeup bag.

Let those eyes pop at Maybelline.ca and Maybelline.com

Fantasy Nails Headed out for that last minute event but your nails look blah? In no time you’ll be party-ready with “gel FANTASY” nails by KISS. This line has so many fabulous designs to pick from; whether it’s a little sparkle you’re fancying or designs that are rockstar-worthy. They last a good duration and are easy to apply and reapply if needed. People could hardly believe I didn’t come from the salon. Nail it at KISSusa.com and LondonDrugs.com

Youthful Glow What’s more perfect than a product that can bring so many beauty benefits? Charlotte Tilbury “Brightening Youth Glow” covers it all; it’s a lightweight, brightening, skin-perfecting, anti-aging, colorcorrecting genie in a bottle! From pure moisture to a gorgeous glow, this divine primer glides across your face like magic. It can be worn as a base under makeup or on its own. Get radiant skin at CharlotteTilbury.com

Magnetic Beauty Sometimes all you need is a good set of falsies to conquer your day. Whether you are sporting a casual look or wanting to glam it up, “TOK beauty” 100% Handmade Silk Magnetic Lashes do not disappoint. They connect as easy as 1, 2, 3 and cause no damage to your natural lash. These little babies come in a variety of styles and lengths for you to have fun with.

Bat those lashes at ShopTOKBeauty.ca

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Wesszer THE MAKING OF A LIFESTYLE GURU On the cusp of releasing her first cookbook with cousin and girl boss Jillian Harris, Tori Wesszer has found her sweet spot as a lifestyle influencer. But she’s still looking for the perfect balance between her roles as a mom, wife, and dietician.

By FAYE ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHARLA PIKE (@SHARLAPIKEPHOTOGRAPHY) STYLED BY KIM APPELT (@STYLEBYKIMXO) MAKEUP BY JENNY MCKINNEY (@JENNYMCKINNEYMUA) DRESS BY ARITZIA

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OFF-SHOULDER FAITHFUL BLOUSE BY MAN + WOMAN HOME / WHITE HIGH RISE JEANS

BY MAN + WOMAN HOME

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O R I W E S S Z E R M AY H AV E S TA R T E D O F F

as a dietician but that was only the first step on her journey.

With a new home in British Columbia’s Okanagan, Wesszer’s found not only a nurturing environment to raise her family but the abundance of the region itself is of great complement to her love of fresh, local, organic foods.

Being within walking distance of some of the best wineries the country has to offer probably doesn’t hurt either.

Wesszer is the creative mastermind behind Fraiche Nutrition, her lifestyle blog, which has garnered a devoted following online. Starting as a dietician in 2001, her blog simply started with, in her own words, “an ugly photo” and recipe for lettuce wraps in 2014. Beginning as a side project to create something for herself, before Wesszer knew it, Fraiche Nutrition was quickly evolving well beyond just her passion for good, healthy food.

Wesszer has started expanding her blog and now offers up great advice on just about all things ‘lifestyle’. Whether it’s her secrets to growing that long healthy mane of hair, how to conquer morning workouts or DIY projects—she’s got it covered.

Her Instagram alone boasts 108K followers. The feed is a stunning curation of her latest recipes, beauty tips, and snapshots which offer a glimpse into Wesszer’s life as both a dietician, mother, and wife. And while the aesthetic is always on point, balancing all that responsibility while continuing to create unique and valuable content is no piece of cake. Inspiring others to live healthier lives through food—and now much more—is a driving force that continues to propel Wesszer forward.

However, maybe ‘lifestyle guru’ genes just happen to run in the family. Wesszer’s cousin is a notable influencer herself, Jillian Harris.

Noted as one of Wesszer’s greatest supporters, Harris has been instrumental in encouraging Wesszer to grow Fraiche Nutrition into the lifestyle blog it is today.

The pair has teamed up together and are currently working on a cookbook of their favourite recipes. Another huge project in and of itself, but Wesszer hopes that once the cookbook is ready to go she’ll be able to carve out a little more time for herself and family too.

How would you describe yourself?

Why is that such a tough question to answer? I would say that I am a big-hearted, hard-working gal who absolutely loves people! I’m from Northern Alberta where people are really trusting and friendly.

There isn’t a shy bone in my body!

Can you tell me a bit about where you live and what kind of environment you’ve created for yourself? How does it reflect who you are?

I live on the Westside of Kelowna about a one minute drive from the house I grew up in, which is where my parents still live. My husband and I bought an old house in the neighbourhood a couple of years ago and just spent the last year renovating it. The space is amazing, it’s a traditional, Cape Cod style house with a light airy feel with tons

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of windows and incredible views of the lake. I love it because I’m so close to my family and the style really reflects me. I’m a bit allergic to colour, it’s a big joke with my friends.

What does a typical day in your life look like?

I wake up very early and on a good day, go to the gym at 5 am. I scramble to get the kids ready for school—we’re usually just on time— drive to the grocery store, buy food for the day depending on the recipe I’m developing, cook and email or write all day, pick up the kids, cook dinner, get them to bed, work some more, then crash for the night and get ready to do it all again! It’s been very busy with writing the cookbook, managing a household, renovating, raising kids and building my business so I’m looking forward to slowing it down a bit this summer.

Do you have a philosophy by which you live by?

Imperfect action is better than perfect inaction. I’m a total perfectionist and am so hard on myself, which means that this doesn’t come naturally to me. But I realized one day that if I don’t just start somewhere and do something—as imperfect as it may be—that I will never really put a dent in my big dreams. We are all too often paralyzed by the ‘I’ll-do-it-when’ syndrome, I just don’t want my life to pass by and sell myself short.

What inspires you?

So much. My family, including my husband, my cousin Jillian, other bloggers like Monika Hibbs, Pinterest, cookbook authors like Donna Hay, Jamie Oliver and Ina Garten and of course the amazing beauty of the Okanagan and everything we grow here.

How did you come to be connected with Jillian Harris and what’s that working relationship been like or what’s been your favourite part about it?

Well, we’ve been connected since birth. Or her birth, I guess, since I’m two years older. She is my little cousin but really, more like my sister. I could write a book… oh wait, I am… we are writing a cookbook together! She’s incredible. She has the hugest heart, the best work ethic, killer business sense, is so much fun, and is a genius in the creativity department. The girl has no fear which is a complete asset, she’s been like that since I can ever remember. I love getting to work with her for so many reasons, she’s been such a help to me in growing my blog Fraiche Nutrition and I’m forever grateful.

How have you been able to balance being a mom, wife, and being a dietician? What does your work-life balance look like?

To be honest, right now it’s not that balanced. I took on a bit too much with everything I’ve already mentioned, so I’m looking to regain some of that balance and do a better job of developing some systems and a schedule once this cookbook is submitted. I’m really grateful for everything in my life and feel so fortunate to have had the opportunities I have.

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I LOVE THE IDEA OF AN UNKNOWN FUTURE B U T M O R E T H A N T H AT, I ’ M LO O K I N G F O R WA R D TO C R E AT I N G M E M O R I E S W I T H M Y F A M I LY I N O U R N E W H O M E A N D R E A L LY E N J OY I N G T H E O K A N AG A N .

What would people be surprised to know about you?

That I’m not vegan. I post a lot of recipes that are vegan-friendly and I think that coupled with the fact that Jillian tries to eat as close to vegan as she can, many just assume that I am too. I’ve always eaten a plant-based diet but I eat everything in moderation.

I’m also afraid of public speaking. I mean, I still do it, but I get so nervous every time I do. I hate it! But I’m learning to channel the fear into excitement and will never back down from a challenge, I’m a bit of a bull that way. Incredibly persistent and very impatient. Wait, was that three things?

What has been your journey to becoming both a dietician and an influencer? When did you know this was your path?

I’ve been a dietitian since 2001, completely dating myself here. I worked selling medical nutrition products for years and started the blog out of a need to do something creative and ‘my own’ back in 2014. It started with an ugly picture of lettuce wraps—it’s still up there—and the rest is history. I didn’t think I was a blogger back then, I just posted a recipe.

Again, it was that whole notion of starting somewhere. It definitely was far from perfect but I keep it there as a reminder of how far I’ve come. It was only a year or two ago that I suppose I realized I was an influencer. I absolutely love what I do and feel so grateful to have the followers that I do, people are incredible and it’s really rewarding.

How does your environment influence what you do?

It seems like you have a beautiful place to call home, but this might also touch on being in beautiful BC too.

I mean, it’s really paradise here in Kelowna, especially in the summer.

I walk through vineyards with a lake view to visit my parents, have a half dozen world-class wineries within walking distance, the most adorable fruit stand up the street and a cherry and plum tree in my backyard. I’m also working on a chicken coop along with a couple other fruit trees. The natural beauty, along with my amazing new kitchen—I am in love, I feel so lucky—both inspire me and create a really awesome working environment for me to do my thing.

Are you surprised at all to now be an ‘influencer’? Or does that term resonate with you—how would you define it?

Yes! I am surprised and flattered. It carries a bit of extra responsibility as you really need to make sure that you’re putting accurate, inspiring, and helpful content out at all times. It means a lot to me that people are interested in hearing what I have to say and that what I put out in my blogging world has the ability to impact others.

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You’re definitely a lifestyle blogger, as Fraiche Nutrition goes well beyond just food—was this just a natural progression for you? What inspired you to explore other areas?

Yes, it’s grown beyond just food! It was in part my cousin Jillian and Shay, who works with her—she’s incredible, who encouraged me to expand beyond food, but also my followers. I would post something and people would ask where my couch was from or where I bought my sweater, sometimes outnumbering any food-related questions!

It’s still something I’m working on strategically expanding.

Are there other lifestyle bloggers you really love to follow? What are your favourite sources to keep inspired?

Oh, well I mentioned a lot of them already. Pinterest and Monika Hibbs, of course, Jillian’s blog and also Gal Meets Glam, Bonjour Gourmet, Pinch of Yum… I mean, I could go on, there are so many people doing such incredible things!

Who is the most influential person in your life?

I don’t think I could narrow it down to just one person, different people inspire different parts of my life. My husband Charles is an incredible cook and really balances me out. My mom is super artistic and creative.

My dad is incredibly funny and has a heart of gold. Jillian is fearless, so generous and such a girl boss. I couldn’t say just one person.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given that helped you on your journey that you want to share with others?

Never burn a bridge. You really never know when someone will come back into your life or when you will need to show that you rose above in a certain situation. Besides, it always feels better to take the high road.

What are some nutrition tips that you think more women should know about—any secrets?

That’s the thing, eating healthy isn’t a secret despite what some people may try to sell a person. The nutrition world is full of empty promises of quick fixes but it truly does boil down to a lot of common sense and making consistent healthy choices.

Fill most of your plate with plants, cut back as much as possible on processed foods, drink plenty of water, minimize caffeine, sugar and alcohol, listen to your body, be wary of fads, cook your own food, eat only until your comfortable and enjoy eating with others as much as possible! There are plenty of little tips that I share along the way, but the path to wellness is paved with a whole whack of consistently made good choices. It may not have a lot of sizzle but it works.

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FREE TIE-FRONT BLOUSE BY WILFRED (ARITZIA) / JEANS - TORI’S OWN

What is your favourite meal to make at home with or for your family—and why?

Hands down: tacos. I simply can’t get enough of them! We have perfected our taco nights complete with Charles’ chipotle sauce—it’s incredible—and all of the fixings made from scratch. The only problem is that I can’t eat them in front of guests, I make such a mess, I overload my tortilla, they are really more like burritos, 100 percent of the time.

What are your kitchen must-haves and why?

Too many to list but a really good knife, I have a Miyabi Santoku knife that I absolutely love. A garlic press, nice sea salt, good olive oil, my Staub cocotte, a French whisk… the right tools with the best ingredients really make cooking so much more enjoyable.

For some people, reevaluating how they eat or needing to change their diet to be healthier can seem really daunting—what’s your take on living a healthier, cleaner life?

I think that people make it too complicated. I really believe that there is so much noise in the nutrition world and it’s nearly impossible to know who or what to believe. Check the source when you’re reading about something new, and really make sure that it’s credible.

Start with one thing and go from there, change doesn’t have to be all or nothing. And don’t beat yourself up if you make a choice toward a ‘sometimes food’ along the way: own it, enjoy it, and know that the next moment is a new one to make a healthier choice. We eat for nourishment but we also eat for pleasure and social reasons and that’s okay.

How would you describe your perfect weekend?

Right now it would be a weekend with no technology, with my husband and children somewhere warm with a pool, plenty of rest and some fun things to do. And no tantrums.

What are you most looking forward to in the next year?

The possibilities. I love the idea of an unknown future but more than that, I’m looking forward to creating memories with my family in our new home and really enjoying the Okanagan. I have lived here nearly all of my life and there is still so much I want to do!

What are you most afraid of right now?

Failure. It has always been my biggest fear.

What’s the happiest moment of your life?

Having my children—no, not the childbirth part, I’m not crazy. The moment your baby is placed on your chest makes your heart nearly burst with joy. I remember after I had Charlie, once we were settled after a few days, I was sitting on the couch in our living room, Frank Sinatra was serenading me over the stereo. Charles was cooking us dinner, the candles were lit and we had a nice bottle of wine open to celebrate the moment. I thought to myself that life was absolutely perfect at that moment.

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THE

DEIGHTON CUP Wardrobe Stylist Jessica Clark shares her top style tips for the upcoming 10th anniversary of The Deighton Cup happening July 21 at Hastings Racecourse.

Visit DeightonCup.com for event information and tickets.

Styled by JESSICA CLARK (@JCSTYLING) Photographed by MATTHEW CHEN (@CHENPRODUCTIONS)

MODEL: DANIELLE TAYLOR (NEXT MODELS CANADA) MAKEUP ARTIST & HAIRSTYLIST: EMMA ABRAHAMSON PHOTO ASSISTANT: JUPNEET KAHLON LOCATION: SILVER FOX HORSE SALES (LANGLEY, BC)

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MAKE A STATEMENT

Statement earrings and hats are huge this season, and we’re not just speaking figuratively! Stand out with your accessories—the more elaborate the better.

WHITE DRESS BY BCBG / HAT - STYLIST’S OWN / EARRINGS BY KATE SPADE

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SHINE BRIGHT

Bright prints and patterns are one of the most popular fashion trends this season. Bring this look to the derby with a floral dress in a vibrant hue—like this musthave boho-chic frock.

HAT BY GRANVILLE ISLAND HAT SHOP / DRESS BY MR.SELF PORTRAIT

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SHOW SOME SASS

The Deighton Cup is all about fun and sass. Play with colourful textured fabrics and show off those shoulders with cheeky asymmetrical silhouettes.

HAT BY GRANVILLE ISLAND HAT SHOP / DRESS BY MR.SELF PORTRAIT

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INTRODUCING CERTIFIED ACNE COACH

LEAH LAVANWAY A

cne is incredibly common. About 85 percent of people have experienced the bumps, blemishes, and pimples associated with acne. While it’s easy to dismiss acne as a superficial cosmetic concern that only affects teenagers, the truth is that acne can bring both physical and emotional discomfort to sufferers of all ages.

Leah LaVanway was inspired to become a skincare professional after her own struggles with acne. She was disappointed at the lack of competent professional care she experienced when she sought help with her condition. Over the next twelve years, she trained to become a Certified Medical Esthetician and has since continued her training in the latest skincare treatments and techniques.

One of the most important things that Leah has learned is that acne is different for everyone. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment that will magically clear up acne for everyone who uses it. Instead, fighting acne is a process that has to be customized for each person.

Acne coaching is one of the services that Leah offers at Essence of L Medi Spa. Included in her coaching, Leah offers personalized advice and services that are geared specifically towards each individual client.

Her medical training and years of experience in the skincare industry help her select the right treatments and products for her clients.

If you would like to find out more about Leah and take advantage of her virtual acne-coaching program, email leah@essenceofl.com to get started on your free coaching and customized acne protocol. This will help determine your acne type, skin type, goals, product and supplement selection, lifestyle coaching, and dietary changes. She will also outline a realistic approach and advise you about any unknown factors you might not have considered that may be aggravating your acne.

You don’t have to fight acne alone. If you are tired of so-called “experts” who simply suggest the same ineffective products and treatments over and over, you are not alone. Get in touch with Leah at Essence of L to start your personalized acne-coaching program and get effective products that will help heal your skin from the inside out and bring back your glow.

Leah LaVanway is the owner of the award winning Essence of L Medi Spa & Laser Clinic in White Rock. She is a medical esthetician specializing in acne therapies and skin needling. Leah is also the founder of Glow Clinical Skincare, a clean clinical line focused on acne prone skin. To learn more about Leah and Essence Of L Medi Spa visit EssenceOfL.com

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5 Steps to Design Your Life

By TONIA MATTU PHOTO BY LIZ ROSA

W

e talk about design within so many contexts—our homes, fashion, branding, and more. But what if we thought about our lives in the same way—that we have the ability to design how we live. What if we restructured our lives so we no longer had to feel stuck?

It’s possible.

So how do you design your own life? Here are five easy steps to help you get started:

1. Accept where you are.

Before you can do anything, you must accept your current situation.

Every single choice you’ve made has led you here, and you must trust that this is okay. You may not love where you are (for example, your job, relationships, health status, location, home, etc.) but there’s absolutely nothing you can do to change your past. So breathe in, accept where you are, and now you can move forward.

2. Visualize where you want to be.

You can’t move forward if you don’t know where you want to go. So be sure to get clear on what you want, before you make any drastic changes. Hint, this is more about who you want to be, opposed to what you want to do. Remember, you’re a human being not a human doing.

Try this! Picture yourself two years from now, living your best life (with no limitations). How do you greet the people you meet? Who are you with? What’s most important to you? What’s making you smile? Answering these questions will help you get a clear vision of the life you want.

3. Identify the gaps.

What did you see in your vision that’s missing from your life today?

It may help to break your life into the following segments, to ensure that you don’t miss anything: Career/Business, Romance/Significant

Other, Health/Fitness, Personal Growth/Learning, Family/Friends.

Doing this will show you the gaps between your current and ideal life, so you can draw a map to where you want go.

4. Declare what you want.

Based on what’s missing from your life today, what will you choose to focus on? I suggest making three bold statements about what you want to create, followed by three actions that you’ll take to make your declarations a reality. For example, Declaration: “I will meet the man that I’ll marry next year” Action: “I will create a profile on a dating site,” or Declaration: “I will secure three dream clients in the next two months: Action: “I’ll spend two hours going to an industry networking event next Friday.”

5. Manifest your dreams into reality.

After you’ve identified what needs to change, and you’ve taken action, you can release and surrender and leave room for serendipity to happen. Imagine all the declarations you made have already happened and think about them as if you’re experiencing them now.

Try using, “I am…” statements to solidify your belief in yourself. This is where trust comes in and knowing that you deserve a life you love.

Keep your vibrations high and let go of any resistance—you’ll attract what you put out!

So what could life design mean for you? To everyone, it’s different.

But for those who pursue it, it’s ultimately about being who you are, and finally claiming your dream life. No matter your situation, you have the power to change your life. ______________________________________________________ Tonia Mattu is a life stylist, the founder of YUOLOGY, and creator of YuSchool—a transformational 6-week course that teaches confidence and clarity in service of building a dream life. She has been a media sales professional in Vancouver, a mindset and motivation coach in New York City, and an NLP practitioner. She’s coached execs from US News, MSNBC, CBS, Dow Jones and Time Out New York. Her first book, Stilettos in the Snow: 25 Steps from Stuck to Serendipity, will be published in the spring of 2018. To learn more about Tonia’s work, visit Yuology.com

28 | FRESH MAGAZINE | freshmag.ca

APRIL 2018

I N

H O N O U R

O F

Mother’s Day

By DR. KELVIN P. MAH

S

pring is here in full force. The welcome change is a celebration of mother nature. A celebration of her resilience, beauty, and wonder. A celebration of motherhood. May is a special time when we can honour the special women in our lives. We can all think about the soft lullabies of childhood, remember the caring patience of adolescence, and enjoy the unwavering love only a mother can give.

Sometimes a mother’s love needs to be turned inwards. Many people can be overly critical of themselves, and it truly is a privilege to help them gain confidence. A lack of confidence affects both your personal and professional journey as you often avoid showing your teeth, muffling your voice and hiding your emotions. A lack of confidence can particularly weigh heavily on a mother. It’s tough when you are ashamed of your smile, so you often look sad or stern, giving a false impression to your children. This becomes magnified when little ones look up to you. I’ve been extremely fortunate to be a part of many life transformations and I’d like to share a story of a truly remarkable mother.

Shilan came into my office distraught but hopeful. Many patients have carried a burden with them for many years and it often takes a significant event to spark a change. Shilan was a loving mother and it took great strength to finally face what she had been struggling with all her life. “Ever since I was 13, I would stare at my face and teeth for hours in front of the mirror to see how I could fake a smile. I’ve always been hesitant to smile... it’s too gummy,” Shilan told me.

enhanced her smile by reshaping her gums in just under an hour.

Shilan was ecstatic when the treatment was completed with no pain or complications.

The psychological effects that were carried over from Shilan’s childhood were profound. Imagine having to think twice about smiling. The stress of having your children never being able to see you smile in public. It’s my responsibility to build self-confidence and to acknowledge that a smile begins from the inside out. Together, we went through a minimally invasive gum reshaping procedure. While the treatment was more conservative than what she had originally come in for, it completely eliminated the “gummy” appearance that had troubled her all her life.

“This has been bothering me since I was a little girl! You’ve given me my smile,” she exclaimed. “Now, I simply smile without thinking about it anymore. I am more confident and I get more compliments about my smile. I don’t have to think when I smile or laugh—I just smile!”

Being part of Shilan’s journey was humbling. She was both ecstatic and grateful for her new smile and new found confidence.

Her emotional journey is a reminder of why we do what we do. It truly is a vocation to shed light on possibility and instill confidence in people who are overwhelmed by lifelong insecurities.

Shilan had reached a crossroads in her life and was embarking on a journey of self-improvement that included weight loss, healthier living choices, and a general full life makeover. The burden of her smile had finally become too great to bare. “When I’m about to smile or laugh, I make sure to cover my mouth with my hands, scarf or just put my head down. In photos, I often look sad or serious,” she sadly explained. Shilan came in wanting veneers but I knew there was another option that was both less invasive and less expensive.

When I see the transformations of my patients, it’s not the teeth that I admire most but the exuberance embodied in their new smiles. In working with a mother like Shilan, we are privileged to join her and her family in a journey towards self-acceptance and self-love. The thought of changing one’s smile is often deeply rooted in insecurities. Having these negative emotions grow with you since childhood can be overwhelming. It takes both trust and patience to spark the change you are looking for because we unlock your full potential when we find the smile that’s right for you. As we celebrate Mother’s Day this spring, let us celebrate the beauty of strength, resilience, and a mother’s journey.

After several illuminating consultations, I knew, though Shilan wanted a change, she needed to keep within her budget. As such, we

As I constantly remind my team: “We’re not treating teeth, we’re treating people.”

Dr. Kelvin P. Mah believes in helping people—not merely treating problems—and takes a dedicated interest in the health and wellness of each individual patient. His award-winning Smile City Square Dental practice reflects a zen-like atmosphere of warmth and relaxation. He is also a graduate of UBC’s prestigious Dental School and is an instructor with the Frontier Institute. Discover the transformative possibilities of modern artisan dentistry at SmileCitySquare.com, and visit Smile City Square Dental on Facebook at facebook.com/SmileCitySquare.

APRIL 2018

freshmag.ca | FRESH MAGAZINE | 29

Women Inc connects you with women-owned businesses that you deserve to know about.

World-changing, innovative, and conscious, these brands showcase the power of a woman in charge.

Kathleen Nabangxang HER KEYS TO SUCCESS

By FAYE ALEXANDER

I

n a time when women are faced with pressures to achieve success, it can be dispiriting when one finds themselves with less than a full dollar to their name.

However, that was exactly the case for Kathleen Nabangxang, managing partner of Vancouver Key to the City.

Following her studies in Business Administration in Toronto, Nabangxang quickly realized that the traditional 9-5 career was not designed for her. An entrepreneur at heart, she wanted to build something of her own, and hopefully leverage her outgoing personality.

Moving to Vancouver to pursue love, the opportunity to create her own business would soon present itself.

“Nothing really stopped me, I felt like if I kept saying yes to everything, I knew things would come my way,” explains Nabangxang.

After clocking Toronto’s Key to the City model online, Nabangxang recognized Vancouver was in dire need of something similar. After reaching out to the managing partner in Toronto to collaborate, Nabangxang began the west coast franchise along with her boyfriend and partner. Key to the City allows their customers rewards and perks to a number of notable business around town, including restaurants, entertainment hotspots and more. The partners in both love and business balance

30 | FRESH MAGAZINE | freshmag.ca

the responsibilities with Nabangxang at the helm of sales and her partner heading the marketing side.

However, running a business of her own is not without its struggles. Nabangxang’s venture into managing her own business has whipped her completely out of her comfort zone. Saying “no,” for instance, no longer feels like an option. But with the support of her partner and her unwavering belief in herself, she’s been able to overcome the tussles associated with entrepreneurship.

The couple have found a great balance between their personal and professional lives by feeding off one another’s energy and supporting each other through the stresses.

“I’m a big believer in always being vocal about what you want and positive things will happen. The universe will give you what you ask for,” explains Nabangxang.

She has continued to fight for what she wants, overcoming obstacles related mental illness. But each of her obstacles has only further ignited her fire to achieve success.

Her best advice is to “take it day by day—and just do it.” Pure in its simplicity, Nabangxang is a model for drive. In the future, she hopes to instill what she’s learned through her journey with other young women; anything is possible and encourage other to keep fighting for what they dream of.

APRIL 2018

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