NO.5 Photos: PS Collective Studio
BARBARA AYLESWORTH Interior Designer and founder of A Stroke Of Genius
contents
Photo: @chiantelle
FALL BOOK
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cover
feature
Interior Designer and founder of A Stroke of Genius. P17
Learn about the opportunity to be a MomBabe co-author for book 2! P28
Barbara Aylesworth
The MomBabes
Q&A
feature
on what this fall means to them. P14
The inspirational story of one woman who has the stars in her blood. P30
creativity
style
Kyla shares her list of unique ways to give your creativity a workout. P24
City meets country, there’s a trend for everyone. P34
I Like Her Style Community weighs in
Catherine Taylor
7 ways to get creative
5 Editor’s Note 7 Fall Bucket List 8 Calendar 12 In My Words 16 Podcast
© I Like Her Style Vancouver 2021. I Like Her Style Vancouver is a division of Gett Creative Inc. All articles within are protected under Canadian copyright law. Articles and other related material may not be copied, published, distributed, downloaded, or otherwise stored in a retrieval system, transmitted or converted, in any form or by any means, electronic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Gett Creative Inc. or the individual article authors. We accept no responsibility, nor bear any liability for any results (desired or otherwise) of the products and services described or advertised within.
10 Fall Trends to Watch and Wear
38 Business 40 Autumn Muffins 44 Nira’s Hot List 50 Femininity 54 Workbook
Please consult your health care professional before making any decisions regarding your body and general well-being. At I Like Her Style Vancouver, efforts are made to ensure that the articles and information we publish are as accurate as possible at the time of publication, but no responsibility can be taken by Gett Creative Inc. for any errors or omissions contained herein. Responsibility for any losses, damages or distress resulting from adherence to any information made available through this publication is not the responsibility of I Like Her Style Vancouver or it’s publisher – Gett Creative Inc.
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Photo: @chiantelle
I CAN’T HELP FALLING IN LOVE. We hear of the famously romantic fall season in Paris... but love is certainly in the air right here at home this year! Not only is my best friend and former editor Jody getting married on October 16th, but my amazing mom has found a new love at the age of 64. If you watch my insta stories @ilikeherstylevancouver, you might know that my daughter Kadence is very much into Barbie... and romance always seems to ensue for her and Ken! For me, fall is ALL about love, because it was the season Kadence was born. More on p13. I’m also simply in LOVE with this issue and the amazing women inside. I introduce you to covergirl Barbara Aylesworth and her love for Interior Design on p17. Featured woman Catherine Taylor shares her lifelong passion for space and education on p30. On p28, The MomBabes are opening up the opportunity to share your love of writing in their next book!
I Like Her Style Vancouver’s Style Book and eMagazine are available free via email to our subscribers. Visit ilikeherstyle.com to subscribe for vibrant monthly digital publications today!
@ilikeherstylevancouver www.ilikeherstyle.com kyla@ilikeherstylevancouver.com
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Fall is the season to let love, creativity & gratitude fly like the leaves. Photo: @chiantelle
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FALL BUCKET LIST IDEAS Use these ideas as inspiration to create your very own list... Go apple picking
Make a charcuterie board
Visit a pumpkin patch
Create a Fall morning routine
Family/friends photoshoot
Add indoor twinkle lights
Visit a corn maze
Begin a gratitude practice
Eat a candy apple
Bake a fruit crisp
Make pumpkin bread
Knit or buy a new throw
Carve a pumpkin
Add new candles
Watch Hocus Pocus
Make a costume
Go thrifting
DIY a Fall wreath
Have a bonfire
Go for a trail walk
Drink apple cider
Organize closet for Fall
Have a Fall picnic
Create a Fall mood board
Decorate for Fall
Purchase new Fall boots
Roast pumpkin seeds
Diffuse essential oils
Buy sunflower bouquet
Visit the country
Create a stovetop potpourri Read a new book
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MONTHLY CALENDAR it’s a date! A few of the dates on our Calendar this season:
Sept 22
First Day of Fall Sept 26
#National PancakeDay Sept 29
#National CoffeeDay Sept 30
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
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Oct 4
Oct 14
Oct 5
Oct 17
#National TacoDay #World TeachersDay Oct 10
#WorldMental HeathDay Oct 11
Thanksgiving Day
#National DessertDay #NationalPastaDay Oct 26
#National PumpkinDay Oct 29
#NationalCatDay Oct 31
Halloween
cut out and display
SEPTEMBER
cut out and display
OCTOBER
Your style may bewitch them, but your heart will leave them spellbound. @ilikeherstylevancouver
INMYWORDS F R O M
T H E
C R E A T I V E
D I R E C T O R
Photo: @chiantelle
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A little Fall magic in my world. There once was a little girl who dreamed of being older than she was. She was an only child and she really quite enjoyed being in the company of her mother and her mother’s friends. She would much prefer to sit and listen to them chat over coffee than play with rambunctious children!
The reason that I share this with you is because many years later something very magical happened to me during the Fall... and it happened exactly on October 9th. Just over the cusp, at 4:27am, my precious daughter Kadence was born.
Like many kids, she would acknowledge as soon as she reached her age ‘and-a-half’. The ‘and-a-half’ was a badge of honour. She even figured out that October 9th was exactly 6 months from her birthday in April. She never told anyone, but she looked at it as a second birthday. She felt connected to it, and when the 9th would come, she felt special all day. Because of this, and for many other reasons (such as Thanksgiving) Fall became her favourite season.
She was due sometime around October 29th and we were hoping that she might be a Scorpio like her dad... but she came early on a date that is beautifully connected to me! Not only that – she was born the Thursday before Thanksgiving weekend, which as I mentioned is one of my favourite holidays. We arrived home from the hospital and Kyle insisted on making us turkey dinner along with my mom who was staying with us. I can’t think of any way more perfect to celebrate my baby!
Okay, if you haven’t already guessed, this strange little girl was me! lol At the age I am now, it seems a little odd to wish to be older. Also, I think my family would think I am strange for loving Fall. I come from a long line of sunshine worshipers! I guess one could view Fall as being cold and dreary, but I chose to embrace it many years ago. The more that I decided to love Fall, the more wonderful the season has become for me.
This year, Kadence is 6 and I feel like my childhood is coming back to play. I am feeling very inspired to decorate and even go all-out for Halloween (which is usually not my style). You’re never too young to be old, you’re never too old to be young, so always seek out the magic! Happy Fall.
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Q&A
THIS GROUP OF I LIKE HER STYLE COMMUNITY FRIENDS ANSWERED:
What is Fall 2021 the ‘season of’ for you? KYLA (me!)
@ilikeherstylevancouver FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR
This Fall feels like the season of possibilities! I have re-claimed more time by getting up earlier, giving myself a roadmap for productivity and of course, having the kids go back to school has opened up new avenues to focus on myself and how I want this fabulous community to grow. I’m feeling more creative, more daring and more capable. I’m thinking bigger than I have in quite some time and I’m taking some new steps forward with exciting things on the horizon.
JAMIE
@jamie.krause
HOME & LIVING BLOGGER, SHOP OWNER
I wish I could give more than one answer! So far Fall 2021 has been a bit hectic for me, with starting a new job, taking on new blog partnerships, and even being given the opportunity to work with two charitable causes close to my heart in the coming months. I think my answer is hiding in plain sight right there – Fall 2021 is the ‘season of new beginnings’ for this gal! Autumn and renewal always seem to go hand-in-hand, and as they say: Good things are coming!
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Q & Q
A & Q & Q A & A & SHALANNA @shalannalayne_
MINDSET & CONFIDENCE COACH
As I enter into Fall 2021, I am entering a season of new significance; a mixture of new growth with significance. Understanding that I don’t have to have all the answers but be courageous to try. I am entering a season of doing it scared because that is where the growth truly lies. It’s a season where you can give yourself the permission to say yes to yourself unapologetically. To let go of the guilt, the need to please others and the self doubt hold you back so you can create space that is filled with high vibe energy, creativity and stepping into your purpose. Doing it scared is waving your middle finger to your fears of showing up, of being seen and the willingness to express your vulnerability on new levels.
CRYSTAL
@hustlewithluster LIFESTYLE BLOGGER
My intention for this fall, is for it to be the season of focus. Focusing on what really matters, what fills me up, and my sense of self. This past year+ has sometimes felt paralyzing, in varying degrees. Fall is the perfect time to shift my focus back to what can propel me forward, versus what might hold me back. I’m planning on more quality family time, prioritizing my health, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone, creatively. And, I’ll probably focus a little bit on pumpkin pie too.
JODY
@jody_belanger
MY REAL LIFE BEST FRIEND ORIGINAL CO-FOUNDER
Fall 2021 is a season of love for me! As I plan our wedding day, my heart flutters at the thought of our official union & celebration. In the process, I have often been reminded of how blessed we are with an abundance of love in our lives. On this special day, our love story will be shared amongst a romantic vintage setting nestled in the mountains to perfectly represent our love which has proven strong and true. Sprinkled with bohemian touches in honour of the ease and comfort our love provides. Undoubtedly, the most meaningful pieces to this day are the loved ones surrounding us and sharing in our joy! I will be leading with love as we step into this new season and the next chapter of our story!
Photo: @brooklyndphotography
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NEXT:
the lowlight reel issue
finding beauty in grief, divorce and the growing pains of being an entrepreneur. Featuring Carly Moir as seen in our Summer 2021 issue with special guest co-host, The MomBabes’ Carolyn Turkington
LAUNCHES OCTOBER 5 16
It’s the podcast that’s a magazine. Keep up with all things I Like Her Style Vancouver and the inspirational women in our spotlight. Kyla is joined by guest co-hosts such as original co-founder Jody Belanger and media maven Nira Arora as we go deeper than ever with the magazine’s covergirls and featured women.
cover story
BARBARA AYLESWORTH A look inside at decorating tips, a dream home transformation, and the heart of the woman who leads with ‘A Stroke of Genius’. This is Barbara Aylesworth’s story.
Photos: PS Collective Studio
PARTNER FEATURE
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My life revolves around my family, my home and my work. Because my hobby turned into my work I really never feel as though work is a burden. BARBARA AYLESWORTH’S LOVE FOR INTERIOR DESIGN AND HOME DÉCOR HAS ALWAYS BEEN AT HER CORE. DURING PREVIOUS YEARS WORKING IN A CORPORATE CAREER, SHE’D SPEND ALL HER SPARE TIME DECORATING HER HOME. IT WAS HER FORM OF RELAXATION.
Showcasing Barbara’s latest transformation– The Ruskin Project, a 60+ year old, split level family home in North Vancouver. “I love to support our local artist community. In this particular project we featured the art of Dayna Longquist.”
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“Back then, I would constantly paint – and repaint my home. I would move furniture around to create new spaces and sew up a storm to make my home into what I envisioned it could be. Every few months my kids would wake up to a different colour on the walls in the kitchen! There is nothing I enjoy more than transforming a space into something beautiful.” 18
@astrokeofgeniusinteriors | astrokeofgenius.ca
Barbara originally launched A Stroke of Genius in the fall of 1997 as a platform to showcase her skills as a Decorative Paint Artist. At the time, she was a single mother of three. She specialized in faux finishes, murals, Italian plasters and gilding. But her true breakthrough came in 2002. “I was walking through the PNE Fairgrounds and I saw a sign listing all the participants that helped to build and decorate the 2001 PNE Prize Home. I saw that sign as ‘my sign’, guiding me to my next chapter. The next day I got on the phone, found out how to be a part of the project, and was given the ‘sponsorship’ opportunity to do the decorative painting for that year’s prize home.” Barbara stayed on painting faux finishes in the PNE Prize Homes from 2002 – 2005, while building her client list from among the thousands of people who toured the homes each year. She supported herself and her family with her paint brush for many years, eventually returning to college to obtain her official Interior Design Certificate. In 2009 she was given the opportunity to oversee the Interior Design of the PNE Prize Home, continuing on in that role through 2011. Photo: PS Collective Studio
“My business has grown exponentially from my beginnings as a painter. Today, I am happy to offer my clients a full spectrum of Interior Design Services.”
ON FALL DÉCOR
Q:
How do you like to transition to fall decor? When fall arrives, I put all my summer accents and accessories away. No more brightly coloured table linens, glass dishes and plates. Summer flowers arranged in glass vases are replaced by branches and twigs in pottery vessels. I bring out the crockery, wood bowls, knit blankets and throws and turn on the fireplace in the evening.
Q:
What are your favourite touches to add for fall? For the front porch, I replace summer annuals with chrysanthemums in any of the variations of yellow or orange and add a seasonal door mat. Living room and family room toss cushions can be switched to ones that are textural in neutral colours or the rich jewel tones of fall. Place throw blankets on furniture, inviting a comfy spot to sit. I also love the glow of candlelight in the evening. It evokes a sense of comfort and warmth.
Q:
Favourite fall scent? I am a big fan of anything Thymes Frasier Fir. Depending on my mood, I will either put a few drops of essential oil in my diffuser, or light a candle in this beautiful scent.
Q:
Where do you like to shop for seasonal items? I like to visit the local nursery for inspiring ideas for seasonal décor. They always seem to have something that triggers my imagination. Throughout the year I collect odd pieces of crockery, brass and copper when I find them at flea markets and other favourite haunts. In the fall and winter I use these for potted plants, catch all bowls for keys, mail, etc, and as fruit bowls and serving dishes.
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T H E
R U S K I N
P R O J E C T
The Ruskin Project is an updated traditional home. At over 60 years old, even with the open floor plan and every modern convenience, the home oozes warmth and tradition. From the original oak hardwood floors to the extensive use of mouldings and custom millwork, the style of this home is timeless. The tile, wallpaper, fabrics, and carpeting were all intentionally kept within a white/warm neutral colour palette mixed with brushed gold and black light fixtures and door hardware. These selections allow for the introduction of different coloured accessories to be used throughout the year, as the seasons change. The only room where you will find chrome fixtures is in the main upper bathroom where they were inspired by the timeless, traditional look of an old CPR hotel.
5 key décor rules for this project: 1. Keep flooring consistent throughout to make the rooms flow together and space feel larger. 2. Maintain a consistent wall colour throughout, again to make rooms flow together.
3. Go big or go home as far as the moulding goes! We added floor to ceiling wainscot in the entry hallway and wrap around master bedroom. Transoms were added above the doors and windows on the main floor to give the illusion of higher ceilings. 4. Use area carpets to define different areas in large open concept spaces. 5. Keep big investment furniture pieces to a neutral colour palette and accent with colourful toss cushion, throws and accessories.
This was a large project as every room in the house was redone completely. What impressed us about Barb was how well she managed us throughout the project, helping us to make decisions in the right order so we weren’t overwhelmed and helping us envision how rooms would link together to make sure the design elements we chose all made sense within the bigger picture context of the house. – Derek & Jacqueline Steven
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The clients wanted an open concept living area that was light, bright and airy. As a young couple with a baby on the way, it was important to find fabrics, furniture and finishings that would not only be durable enough to withstand daily life with young children and pets, but also stand the test of time.
Photos: PS Collective Studio
@astrokeofgeniusinteriors | astrokeofgenius.ca
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Barbara loves to work in thoughtful details like this clothing rod in the laundry room area.
Photos: PS Collective Studio
O N
L I F E ,
D É C O R
&
M O R E
Barbara greets each day with an open mind. She is the mother of 3 adult children (a son and 2 daughters) and the life partner to a very supportive man. She believes that every day is a blessing and tries to take at least one ‘lesson learned’ from every day. A lesson can be anything from learning a new skill to learning to bite your tongue when you can’t say what you want! As an entrepreneur, during the week she aims to make the most out of every minute of the day. She’s a proponent of structure and schedule, a mindset gleaned from her days of working for a large corporation. “I make lists, lots of lists!” She shares. Weekends are her time for self-care. During her downtime, you might find her getting her nails done, reading a book or enjoying a walk in the forest as she rests and re-energizes.
Q:
What makes you come alive? The smallest details that make ‘everyday’ special. First sip of coffee in the morning, the fragrance of an iris, the gentle breeze on a warm day. Things like that. And, the prospect of getting to work with a new client to create something fantastic!
Q:
What’s your personal décor style? My personal décor style is most definitely eclectic. I love finding a good ‘diamond in the rough’ at a flea market, fixing it up and finding a special spot for it in my home. I can count on one hand the pieces of furniture in my home that are purchased ‘new from the store’. Family heirlooms and second hand treasures have a special patina and time worn appearance you simply can’t buy new. If these pieces could speak, oh what stories they could tell!
Q:
Finish this sentence: Every well put together room needs these things: Fresh flowers or plants, a comfy chair and a place to set your glass.
Q:
How do you hope that other women see you? I hope other women (and people in general) feel that I am friendly, approachable and trust worthy.
Q:
What’s your favourite room in your home? My favourite room has to be our front sitting room. When our neighbour took down some trees a few years ago, we were ecstatic to discover that we have a view of the water from the front of our house. So, we turned a front bedroom into a sitting room. We installed a large picture window to take in the view of Burrard Inlet. This is where I start my day with a cup of coffee and end my day with a cup of tea (or a glass of wine)! @astrokeofgeniusinteriors astrokeofgenius.ca 23
I N S P I R E D
L I V I N G
Do you feel like your creativity went dormant over the Summer? I know that I do... but that’s okay! The natural rhythm of summer is to live in our BODIES and DO all of the things! Now that it’s fall, it’s a time to go back inside. Inside the home, office, studio... and inside the MIND as we begin to plan, organize and fall back into our need and desire for creativity.
FIRE UP YOUR
CREATIVITY BY K Y L A GET T Y
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7 ways to get creative... Let’s get back to basics... since it’s back to school time! I have had a lot of fun looking at the topic of creativity and exploring ways to dig into it! After all, my umbrella company’s name is Gett Creative Inc. and for as long as I can remember, I have valued creativity as my absolute favourite trait. Now, I’m fortunate to have a business and live a life that revolves around creativity. I know just as well as anyone that creativity is like fitness. You have to stretch, push yourself, and continue to build that creative muscle. When I went to post secondary for graphic and interdisciplinary design, it was kind of like a creativity bootcamp! Then, when I worked in an advertising agency, my creativity was on a hamster wheel. If creativity was an Olympic sport, well... I would have been goin’ for the gold! lol I believe that we are here to create... and thus, creativity is important to living and enjoying life. In this article, I’m sharing a list of ways stay in great creative shape this season and beyond.
Be a creative observer.
Start simply. Sit back, relax and enjoy what you see around you with an eye for creativity. Dip your toe into creative living by taking note of colour palettes, shapes, textures, and layouts that you see around you. See beauty and art in the simple things.
Get back in touch with yourself.
Begin a journaling practice to re-familiarize yourself with having an active inner dialogue. This need not be a literary masterpiece. At first, it might simply be for the
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Rather than go to an art gallery, one of my favourite places to check out art is at Homesense! Graphic and abstract prints like this make me think, “I could 26
do that!” It’s a great place to get inspired to begin a painting project at home.
7 ways to get creative... act of writing itself, rather than anything specific to read later. Start off by jotting things down in point form. Feeling stuck? You can literally list what happened that day, then move into a lesson learned, and then – gratitude.
Take a picture, it’ll last longer.
Challenge yourself to take more photos with your phone or camera. If you see something that strikes your interest, snap a photo. Play with subject matter. Get out to shoot with friends, family, or even the dog. Play with angles and the way that natural light works with or against your shots. Look for unique spots to shoot at.
Try a new medium.
If you have a creative hobby or business, try a new medium that’s different than your normal go-to and explore flexing your creative muscle in new and exciting ways, completely pressure-free. Try creative writing, painting, paper craft, digital layouts using Canva, or decorating a space.
Pin it to win it.
Load up on plenty of inspiration on Pinterest. Create some new boards to help get you inspired and give shape to ideas that excite you. Whether it’s a board for fall fashion and styling ideas to try, organizational hacks, or a creative DIY... when you need to get the ball rolling, Pinterest is always there for the win.
Read a book to inspire you.
The book that I will specifically recommend is called Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear By Elizabeth Gilbert. This will forever by a sacred text of creativity for me. The very short sections make for a great daily ‘devotional’ to creativity. It’s pure permission to ‘do the thing’, from fellow creative geniuses.
Recognize when creativity strikes.
Most of us have a certain time of day or act that initiates our best, most creative thoughts. For me, it seems to be when I’m in the shower or driving.
Neither are ideal times to act on the creative urges, but I make sure to jot down my ideas or type them in my phone’s notes for later! It has been said that the 3 o’clock am hour (if you happen to be awake) can be a power-packed time for thoughts and ideas. This might sound a bit like hocus pocus, but if I ever do awake around that time with an instantly busy mind, I don’t fight it. For me, it can be an ultra productive time to work things through at lightening speed. Again, write things down because there’s a good chance you won’t remember when you wake up – but it’s often worth the groggy day ahead! “Coffee?”
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L to R: Carolyn Turkington poses with Publisher (CEO of The Self Publishing Agency) Megan Williams, and co-founding sister, Christina Walsh this Summer at the author’s celebration event.
The MomBabes
T H E W O R L D N E E D S T O H E A R Y O U R S T O R Y. LET’S WRITE IT TOGETHER! In the previous issue you met sisters Christina and Carolyn who founded The MomBabes for women like themselves, who have the desire to create a legacy. In May 2021, along with 20 female co-authors from their community, their first book launched with amazing success: The MomBabes – A Motherhood Anthology.
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The book has not only provided these women with the accomplishment of a lifetime, it’s has connected them and so many more through the power of storytelling. Together with the Self Publishing Agency, the book was published and is now available on Amazon. The women were led through the writing process virtually and had the opportunity to meet and celebrate their book’s success over the Summer.
PARTNER FEATURE
JOIN US FOR BOOK 2
If you feel inspired to write, being a co-author with us is a great place to begin. A co-author project helps first time writers become authors at a much lower investment than if you were to do this all on your own. You don’t have to google what to do, you don’t have to write 50,000 words, no need to find an agent, a publisher or an editor.
Q:
What do writers need to expect about the process? We start October 20th with weekly zoom calls for 6 weeks to get us writing and sharing. You’ll have accountability, connection and friendship as you put your story on paper. Nothing has to be perfect, we are here to support you. At the end, you’ll be a published author with a book with your name on it – a piece of your legacy published in a book that will sit on so many shelves and in so many hearts of women.
Q:
Why is this such a great oppor tunity for women to be part of? A lot goes into publishing and we do it all. You just write. ONE CHAPTER, that’s it! And... we’re here to help you do it!
@themombabes
MORE INFO Purchase Book 1 and join the Book 2 waitlist at: themombabes.com
IT’S IMPORTANT THAT WE SHARE OUR STORIES. THE WORLD NEEDS TO HEAR THEM. We need laughter, humour, courage, encouragement, bravery, triumph. We need to hear and read the struggles of others to know we are not alone. To read about REAL life. The messy, the mundane. The regular days. To know we are not alone in this, we’re not supposed to do this alone.
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D E S T I N E D F O R T H E S TA R S
CATHERINE
TAYLOR Ph.D. Candidate, MSS, BHK
Catherine Taylor feels that the skies and stars are in her blood. She may have spent years of her life hindered by obstacles, but now this woman is ready to soar as she gains her Ph.D. in Aerospace Physiology and devotes her life to space, and her quest for knowledge.
Photos: PS Collective Studio
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PARTNER FEATURE
As a young girl in the United Kingdom, Catherine Taylor dreamed of traversing the universe. “Although I never knew my father, my mother told me he was a Royal Air Force Pilot - so I guess the skies and stars are in my blood!” She shares. For as long as she can remember, she was drawn to the sky. She lived inside of books and wanted to become an astronaut. However her desire for education was met with much resistance to her empowerment. With an older brother who everyone considered to be ‘the intelligent one’, she was discouraged from academics - made to feel that she was ‘merely a girl’.
After his passing, Catherine shares she felt as though her world collapsed. She no longer had her academic path, or her husband. She fought with fears about what would come next, and grieved her losses for many years. But in 2019, Catherine’s world changed in one single conversation. Her best friend Babak, who had been a constant supporter, encouraged her to resume her educational journey to obtain her master’s degree in Aerospace. She entered and recently graduated from the American Public University’s STEM Space Studies program in July, 2021. She also was Chairperson for a new aerospace student club that received an award as the most outstanding new club in the university in 2020. This month, Catherine has began studies at Simon Fraser University to obtain her Ph.D. She is once again working ever-forward to realize her lifelong dream of being an impactful resource to the space community. Her mission is to assist humanity to become a space-faring species.
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At 18, she married a man who further denied her access to higher education. Together, they moved to Canada, but by age 26 they divorced. She struggled for a number of years, following that, to find a career that would afford her more education. By 30, Catherine successfully attended UBC studying physiology and graduated with a Bachelor’s of Human Kinetics. She was offered a scholarship at the International Space University, in France, with an opportunity to study for her master’s degree. “Alas, my soon-to-be second husband was diagnosed with Grade 4 cancer and I chose to stay in Canada.”
I want to encourage our youth (girls and boys) to strive ever onward and upward. For many years I struggled financially, emotionally and psychologically but never failed to keep my eye on the dream. I hope that one day, a youth will take courage from my journey and realize that success is an inward journey - intrinsic. It is so wonderful to have support such as I have from my friend Babak, but sometimes one has to support themselves. – Catherine Taylor Ph.D. Candidate, MSS, BHK
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A CONVERSATION WITH CATHERINE
Q:
On Space:
Q:
Space is the ultimate frontier! I believe humanity was created to know itself, to explore the realms of possibilities, and the universe is the ultimate frontier… until we discover something new! Space is to me like the mountain is to the mountain climber. It’s there – so we should explore.
What drives you & what makes you come alive? My driving force is my dedication to living to my utmost potential as God intended, without giving up. What makes me come alive is positively influencing the lives of people I meet with love and gratitude. Tell us about a limiting belief and how you overcame it. That I was not good enough – because I mistook not always being encouraged as a measure of myself, rather than a measure of those not offering encouragement. However, even at a young age, when people told me I could not or should not do something, I chose to look within myself and live by the following mottos: ‘Be True To Thyself’ (Shakespeare) and ‘No one can make you feel inferior without your consent’ (Eleanor Roosevelt). What’s your number one value that you take with you? Integrity. It’s not always easy to live honestly with trustworthiness and transparency, but it’s the one virtue I strive for daily. I can sleep each night peacefully, knowing I did my utmost each day and at least I did something helpful.
Q:
Q:
Tell us one thing that would shock us about you! I have a chronic hip condition from studying martial arts for 12 years, earning a brown belt which ended my career with an injury. I also have a chronic shoulder condition from falling during lead-rock climbing. Both of these injuries are difficult to deal with, but I keep moving.
Q:
How did you meet Babak? He’s had a profound influence on you. At Capilano University in Psychology class. We instantly became friends due to his calm composure, integrity, gentleness. He introduced me to my dearest spiritual family, brothers, and sisters. We are all Baha’is.
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My specific proclivity is aerospace physiology. Space is an inhospitable environment for human and animal kind… for now. With the extension outward to the universe, ultimately, our species will adapt and endure the effects of microgravity and extreme radiation exposure. Until such time, however, countermeasures to protect our astronauts are required. I am eager/passionate to find an easy solution to that end.
Q:
What’s your career goal once done? When I complete my Ph.D., I seek to research the countermeasures necessary to allow our astronauts to delve deeper and deeper into our solar system and beyond. I will dedicate the rest of my life to this endeavor.
Q:
How do you define success? Success is a relative term. I do not consider “success” in the general sense. Success to me is not about the amount of external “things” one has, but instead whether or not you live the life that is meant for you and that you live honestly; success is intrinsic. For years after my husband passed, I fought against accepting that marriage and a family were not meant for me. Once I embraced this realization, I spread my wings and took flight (no pun intended). I could not have known what that leap of faith was to do for me, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunities that subsequently arose and for the clearing of the mind that allowed the realization.
HUMANITY is born to strive for great things, and sometimes navigating the waters of life is hard, lonely, and challenging, but when you get to the other side, you’re a wholly evolved person – ready for the next challenge. – CATHERINE TAYLOR
Ph.D. Candidate, MSS, BHK
Life is phenomenal, full of potential, just waiting to be realized. My life is like a boat on a body of water. Sometimes people get on, and sometimes they get off. Sometimes the boat is on smooth sailing waters, and other times it hits rapids. As long as you have the goal, the destination, in mind, the path remains true. When obstacles get in the way, sometimes you have to veer to miss them or else collide.
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style
T H E
I
L I K E
H E R
S T Y L E
V A N C O U V E R
10 FALL TRENDS TO WATCH & WEAR 34 |
@ilikeherstylevancouver
T H E
L O O K :
C I T Y
M E E T S
C O U N T R Y
THIS FALL THERE’S A TREND THAT EVERYONE CAN CONNECT WITH ... whether you’re a casual girl, a city girl, a country girl or a glamour girl. If you know me, I like to dabble in all of those personas depending on the day and the occasion! For my ‘city meets country’ fall look, I’m showcasing two trends that I’m loving...
NO.1 & NO.2 Plaid Flannel Combat Boots 35
style T H E
I
L I K E
H E R
S T Y L E
V A N C O U V E R
10 FALL TRENDS TO WATCH & WEAR NO.4 Oval Solitaires
NO.5
NO.3
Dainty Yellow Gold Bands
Bodysuits with cut-out detail
SHOP THESE ITEMS AT:
AMAZO N.C A/SHOP/ILIKEHERSTYLEVANCOUV ER
NO.7 Round Vintage Sunnies
NO.6 Western Boots
NO.8 Woven Leather Handbags
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NO.9 NO.10 Puffed Turtleneck Sweater Sleeves
Mini Dresses
KYLA’S CURATED COLLECTION OF WANT-WORTHY ITEMS FOUND ON AMAZON.CA
shop keep give haunt style. S H O P AT AMAZON.CA/SHOP/ILIKEHERSTYLEVANCOUV ER
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business
THE COLLECTIVE by BUSINESS BABES CO.
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THE FORTUNE IS IN THE FOLLOW UP By Danielle Wiebe One of the most important skills to master as a business owner is FOLLOW UP! Have you heard the phrase ‘The fortune is in the follow-up?’ Most likely you have but do you really run your business with that in mind? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve missed out on BIG opportunities, just because I haven’t properly followed up. On the flip side, I can think of people who have followed up with me (2, 4, 6 + times) who I’ve end up working with, hiring, collaborating with or purchasing what they had to offer because they didn’t give up and they continued to politely and professionally follow up. So let me ask this: What holds you back from following up with someone? Is it fear? Do we worry we are annoying or bugging them? Do we think just because they are not responding that they are not interested? Maybe we don’t know what to say or how to follow in a way that’s both polite and effective? Is there is something holding you back from following up? I promise a little follow-up can go a LONG way!
If you’ve been craving a community that will support you, encourage you and keep you accountable this year, then check out ‘The Collective’ membership group: an exciting new place to learn, network and collaborate with an inspiring community of female entrepreneurs!
the best biz benefits • Weekly co-working sessions
• Monthly networking parties, live workshops & expert Q+A sessions • A library of workshops covering topics like marketing, branding, pricing, sales & more • Numerous resources to grow your business, discounts and member perks • A private Facebook group to network & connect with other members
@businessbabesco | www.businessbabescollective.com 39
bake
AUTUMN APPLE CARROT MUFFINS 40
I wanted to share a recipe in this issue that would not only be delicious for Fall, but would also make a great lunchbox addition for our kids to enjoy as they begin their school year. I was inspired by a couple of different recipes and worked together with my friend and Registered Holistic Nutritionist Chiantelle to combine my ideas and create a gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan option. Made with oat flour and using applesauce for sweetness, we managed to hide carrot inside as well – which my daughter did notice but was not deterred by, since the crumble top and maple icing drizzle were just so dang yummy! Read on for recipe...
Thank you to @chiantelle for your expertise, photography and creative direction for this recipe feature.
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AUTUMN APPLE CARROT MUFFINS BASE 2 3/4 cups oat flour 3/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce 2 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp sea salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp nutmeg 3 large eggs 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups grated carrots 1 cup apple, peeled and grated (used honeycrisp for the recipe but granny smith, pink lady, or jonagolds work too)
CRUMBLE 1/3 cup cane sugar 1/3 cup coconut sugar 1/4 tsp sea salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (can use coconut oil too) 1 1/2 cups of oat flour MAPLE GLAZE 1/4 cup icing sugar/confectioners’ sugar 1/2 tsp maple syrup 1 tsp cold water
DIRECTIONS: Preheat the oven to 350F and grease/line a muffin tin pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, unsweetened apple sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, sea salt, eggs, coconut oil and vanilla. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Fold in the remaining ingredients: grated carrots and apple. For the crumble: mix together in a separate bowl the cane sugar, coconut sugar, sea salt, unsalted butter and oat flour until a crumble texture forms. Scoop the muffin base about halfway of each lined/greased muffin tin, and top with a spoonful of the crumble.
Bake for about 18-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. For the glaze: mix the icing sugar, maple syrup and cold water. If too thick, add a bit more cold water. If too thin, add more icing sugar. Once the muffins have cooled, drizzle with the glaze. Enjoy! To make this recipe completely dairy-free, the 3 large eggs can be substituted for flaxseed eggs or chia seed eggs, and the melted butter for the crumble can be substituted for coconut oil.
nira’s
HOT LIST SEPTEMBER 2021
Everyone’s fave voice to wake up to, Virgin Radio Morning Show co-host, Nira shares her monthly must haves with us. With impeccable taste and eye for local finds, we love Nira’s Hot List!
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Photo: @iulia.agnew
nira’s hot list
BACK TO SCHOOL BASICS. BY N IR A AR OR A
Welcome September and welcome again to so much of the unknown! When I think of back to school, it’s not just about the kids. It’s also about getting myself back into a routine, realizing that I also need to get myself back on track with health and organization! HE RE A RE A F E W B A CK T O S C H OOL BAS IC S T H AT C AN H EL P A LLE V I ATE S O M E OF T H E F US S AN D ADD S OME F UN !
NO.1
Mabel’s Labels Label everything! Seriously – no joke your kids have this innate desire to leave their belongings anywhere and everywhere! I realized this once preschool started – labeling is the key. Everything you buy for kids is already expensive, but when you have to buy the same thing a second time – that is next level annoying.
1
I found Mabel’s labels – pre-made labels with your children’s names. They come on adhesive sticker-like labels that you can use on their clothes, toys, shoes, hats, gloves, water bottles, thermoses, and even chargers (strange I know, but they go missing too!) Don’t forget to label the masks as well. Plus you can throw your items in the wash and microwave things with the labels on them. Pure lifesaver! The labels aren’t just for the kiddies – I printed some off with my name on them as well. Do you ever lend something out and then forget that you lent it? Yes – classic Nira! I’m just now hoping that if I have my name on it, it will eventually get back to me! These labels are a pure time and life saver! www.mabelslabels.com
| @mabelslabels
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Photo: @iulia.agnew
2 NO.2
withinUs – TruMarine Collagen If you’re interested in filling your body with some major goodness, this is a must – Collagen from the inside! I’ve become a believer and I really do think it makes a difference with joint pain and healthy skin.
wrinkles, fine lines, and UVB-induced skin damage. It’s also been clinically proven to reduce everyday joint pain, and pain associated with osteoarthritis (approved by Health Canada).
withinUs TruMarine™ Collagen is the highest grade of collagen available. It is Ultra-Pure, NonGMO Project Verified and 100% natural.
withinUs TruMarine™ Collagen has no impurities, additives, preservatives or fillers – which means you can easily incorporate it into hot or cold beverages without affecting the flavour or consistency. Speaking from experience, moms feel worn down. We don’t get as much ME time as we would like, this helps with restoring and replenishing us from the inside.
Studies show that regular consumption of marine collagen improves skin moisture level, smoothness and suppleness, preventing signs of aging such as
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www.withinus.ca |
@withinusnatural
NO.3
MUSE - Initial Pendant Necklace Anybody else obsessed with initial jewelry? I used to love initial jewelry when I was a kid and I never grew out of that obsession. Imagine my validation when Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City sported her CARRIE necklace?! Yes – you guessed correctly, I also had a NIRA necklace ;)
One of my favourite recent initial necklace finds was at MUSE in South Surrey. They are the perfect dainty piece that can easily be worn with other necklaces or on its own. The MUSE initial pendant necklaces are 18K gold dipped with an adjustable length chain. It’s the perfect subtle statement back to school piece. Or a rightfully so – little treat for yourself!
www.musesocialfashionhouse.com | @musefashion
Photo: @iulia.agnew
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nira’s hot list
4 NO.4
Lululemon – Lab Street Bag 21L Wherever you go, this bag is made to fit your purpose. I’ve always got stuff – it’s in my DNA. I feel this need to be over prepared for all situations. When you are constantly on the go – you need a bag that is designed to meet your needs. Let me introduce you
to the Lululemon Lab Street Bag – a versatile carryall with water resistant fabric. It’s the perfect grab and go with side pockets for quick access to your water bottle and small items. The interior zippered pocket is ideal for your sweaty gear and another interior pocket to store your essentials. And yes – your laptop will fit too!
www.lululemon.com | @lululemon 48
OUR EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT FROM OUR S P R I N G I S S U E ’ S C O V E R G I R L & T H E C R E AT O R OF THE ESVEDRA WELLNESS APP
Dr. Kaitlyn Goldsmith is a Clinical Psychologist and Instructor in the Department of Psychology at UBC. She is also a certified yoga teacher passionate about integrative wellness approaches. Join Dr. Kaitlyn on Instagram Stories for her insightful monthly contributor spotlight.
only on instagram @ilikeherstylevancouver W AT C H N E X T:
OCTOBER 15TH
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fearlessly feminine
PREPARE FOR SUCCESS BY SARAH BOHDANOVA
“Achievement is talent plus preparation”. MALCOLM GLADWELL Malcolm Gladwell, author of Outliers, said: “Achievement is talent plus
preparation”. Which he later commented on in an article in the New Yorker: “The closer psychologists look at the careers of the gifted, the smaller the role innate talent seems to play and the bigger the role preparation seem to play.”
So essentially it’s less about natural ability, and more about proper
preparation. This is really good news, especially if you have written off certain desires because they didn’t come naturally to you.
Many women have shared with me aspirations of… • Being able to hold a conversation while being calm and collected. • Carrying themselves with confidence. • Attracting an incredible partner. • Keeping their femininity in male dominated environment. • Living an intentional life.
So, if you now know all those things are available to you, what exactly do you need to do to get them? What is the “proper preparation”?
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Sarah Bohdanova is a heels coach and an expert on presentation and body language. As a World Professional
Dance Semi-finalist and Award Winning coach who has worked with hundreds of women in her career, her favorite days are spent sharing her secrets with women around the world. Photos: Aaron Aubrey
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fearlessly feminine
LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO THE STAGES OF LEARNING. Whatever new skill, habit, or desire you want is just on the other side of these 4 steps: 1. Initial: This is where you receive the information. Your general mood here will be positive. You’re making the steps, you see the path. Current mood? It’s all gravy baby!
2. Awkward: We pumped those breaks quick! I didn’t say it would be easy.
At this stage you are starting to put the information into practice, but it’s become very evident that there is a gap between your understanding and your ability to execute.
3. Conscious: Hallelujah! You may have thought that would never end, but you officially have exited the Awkward Stage. You are now able to put that great information to use, it just takes a lil’ bit of thought!
4. Natural: The new skill has now integrated with who you are. Great body language?
Check! Hold a conversation like a boss? YEP! You no longer have to think about it, it’s just an extension of the woman you’ve become. This is the gold at the end of the rainbow, mon Cherie.
Whatever beautiful desire you have in your heart, it’s available to you. Hold that encouragement close.
@thefemininityprojectinc | thefemininityprojectinc.com
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EXCLUSIVE SEGMENT FROM THE CREATOR O F T H E F E M I N I N I T Y P RO J E CT
Sarah Bohdanova is a World Pro Dance Semi-Finalist, award winning Coach, Dance Club owner and founder of The Femininity Project. Sarah’s femininity coaching helps you nail your signature style, cultivate poise and honour your own version of femininity so that you can finally stop playing small and start carving out space for the opportunities, time, respect and self-love you desire.
only on instagram @ilikeherstylevancouver W AT C H N E X T: OCTOBER 1ST
work book WHERE THE LIFE styling HAPPENS.
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October 3 - 9
SELF CARE PLAN Physical Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Social Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Intellectual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Spiritual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Contributor Dr. Kaitlyn Goldsmith shares, many people find that engaging in 2-3 activities in each category per week helps them to feel more balanced. Create a plan with a list of go-to activities you enjoy to refer to when you schedule your time or have free time. Once complete, jot down your self-care activities to help you maintain balance. 55
October 10 - 16
SELF CARE PLAN Physical Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Social Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Intellectual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Spiritual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
workbook
October 17 - 23
SELF CARE PLAN Physical Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Social Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Intellectual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Spiritual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
workbook
October 24 - 31
SELF CARE PLAN Physical Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Social Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Intellectual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
Spiritual Activities I Enjoy
This week I did:
workbook
workbook
FALL GRATITUDE & FAVOURITE THINGS This month I felt most excited when
I’ll always remember this October because
I’m so happy that I went to
The lesson that I feel I learned this month was
The people who made this month bright are
The most delicious meal in October was
I realize that I achieved
I cherish the moment when
Happy Autumn Darling. @ilikeherstylevancouver
