I LIKE HER STYLE VANCOUVER | ISSUE 3

DOCTOR

KAITLYN

shares about style, women’s health, and the inspiration behind her EsVedra Wellness app

NO.3

GOLDSMITH

Photo: @pscollectivestudio

Style Book + eMagazine

contents

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Photo: shutterstock.com/Floral Deco

The world feels lighter and we’re feeling playful.

Spring is upon us! We’re excited to embrace the fun of style, joy in wellness + plenty of celebration!

Cheers to issue 3 with this amazing community!

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

cover

feature

Shares about style, women’s health, and the inspiration behind her EsVedra app. P22

Meet Carly, the inspired entrepreneur behind the creative lifestyle shop. P30

Dr. Kaitlyn Goldsmith

Twenty Eight North

style

beauty

A roundup of 7 trends from the I Like Her Style Shop on Amazon.ca P17

Ax Art’s Annie Truong shares 4 beauty items to spring for this season. P18

shop

serve

Browse this collection of must-have and giftable items for Mother’s Day and beyond. P36

A delightful spring sip recipe from White Table Catering Co. P46

7 Fun and Wearable Spring Trends

Spring Gift Guide

5 Editor’s Note

6 Contest

8 How It Works 10 Printables 12 Calendar

Spring For It

Blushing Citrus Cocktail

14 In My Words

44 Business

48 Nira’s Hot List 54 Spring Style Strategy 58 Workbook

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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take note!

This emagazine is clickable! Links in this issue are all active, so if you see something you like... tap it!

Photo: @pscollectivestudio

from Kyla

ISSUE THREE IT’S SPRING! Let’s do our happy dance, ladies!

Spring is here and I’ve got some big birthday energy... haha! It’s April 9th and Carly from White Table has us covered with the perfect cocktail to toast with together on p46!

It’s hard not to love Spring, especially when there are so many special occasions upon us!

This issue has celebratory vibes and style at it’s heart. We’re featuring inspiring covergirl – Doctor and entrepreneur Kaitlyn Goldsmith who shares her story, new app, and more on p22.

I hit the city, toured lifestyle shop Twenty Eight North, and fell in love with owner Carly. I found so many Spring gift ideas – I had to share! p30.

I Like Her Style Vancouver is available exclusively via email to our subscribers... so click here to make sure you’re on the list! @ilikeherstylevancouver www.ilikeherstyle.com kyla@ilikeherstylevancouver.com

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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contest SUBSCRIBE TO WIN

SPRING ART GLOW UP Win this Spring art package with 5 cards by local female artists!

FEATURING @TWOSISTERSBC

Make sure you’re subscribed to this eMagazine and following local female artists @twosistersbc to win! *Prize Value $74

Already subscribed? You’re entered!

Photos: @pscollectivestudio 6 |

@ilikeherstylevancouver

Sisters Tara and Tandis have

been painting together for most of their lives, drawing inspiration from plants, wildlife and vibrant colours.

“Each time someone buys our art, it’s like you’re actually giving us a big hug.” @twosistersbc

PLUS

Hang out with Kyla at @ilikeherstylevancouver to see how she styles the prints in her home!

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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how it works ONE eMAGAZINE, TWO WAYS TO VIEW. THIS ISSUE WAS DEIGNED JUST FOR YOU!

choose your own adventure: Phone-Friendly eMagazine We polled our community on social media to see how you prefer to read and the results were interesting! Since many of our friends mostly read on their phone, we decided to create a new concept magazine that is designed with your phone screen in mind! But that’s not all!

Full Magazine Experience Are you a traditional magazine lover like myself? We got you! The magazine can also be viewed as desktop version, complete with the full fledged page-flipping experience! This is best experienced on a tablet, desktop, or laptop Which Version would you like to view?

MOBILE

LARGER SCALE

TAP TO

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SWITCH

@ilikeherstylevancouver

tap away

Select active links to shop, explore and watch video

fun extras

Printables & screengrab artwork for your tech inside

zoom in

Remember to zoom in on the pages if you’d like a closer look

Photo: shutterstock.com/Floral Deco

Print, Frame, Screengrab.

Tag @ilikeherstylevancouver Shutterstock.com/sini4ka

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Real Queens stand together on the same team. @ilikeherstylevancouver

Print and Clip!

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MOBILE CALENDAR

PLAN FOR SUCCESS, PLAN FOR GRACE. By now you may know that I live and die by saving this monthly calendar graphic to my phone’s lock screen! I couldn’t be happier to see that you love them too! Enjoy! xo Kyla

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

tap here!

To get the 2021 Mobile Calendar Collection!

it’s a date!

A few of the dates on our Calendar this season: Mar 17

April 1

April 22

Mar 20

April 2

April 29

April Fools Day

St. Patrick’s Day

World Autism Awareness Day #WAAD

Spring Begins March 21

(end) #RacialDiscriminationDay

Apr 2

Good Friday

Earth Day #DenimDay May 5

Cinco de Mayo May 9

Mother’s Day

Mar 28 - Apr 4

Apr 4

Easter Sunday

May 21

March 31

Apr 13 - May 12

May 24

Passover

Ramadan

#EqualPayDay

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

#BikeToWorkDay Victoria Day

MARCH

Print and Clip!

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You can never be truly stylish if you don’t feel it.

– KYLA GETTY

INMYWORDS F R O M

T H E

C R E A T I V E

D I R E C T O R

See P17 to shop Kyla’s outfit!

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

Photo: @iulia.agnew

Take it. Leave it. Style it. Just feel it.

I have been having a ball with fashion in 2021. A big part of the reason why I’ve been having so much fun with it is because of opening up the new Amazon I Like Her Style Vancouver Shop!

Having an ILHSV store location is a big idea that could be oh so much fun to explore someday.

Over the years, we’ve toyed with the idea by hosting pop up shops and even our own fashion capsule.

Do you remember that?!

Fashion right now is playful.

It’s exaggerated. In some cases, it’s forgiving – hello, oversized!

In other cases, it’s not – hello crop tops. I love some things I’m seeing right now, and don’t care for others.

I get so excited about the idea of being able to style my look... and yet, I’ve always felt limited by things. Money, my body. Oh, and I guess now my age is becoming a consideration, as well.

As I spent time in my ‘happy place’ stocking the Amazon shop with fun pieces to shop and share, I selected items through the lens of choosing current looks that would integrate into everyday life. Working from home. Picking up the kids from school. Walking the dog. Running

out for a coffee. Socially distant work collabs. Those kinds of things.

Then, out of nowhere came the announcement that skinny jeans and side parts where no longer in style.

Did that bother anyone else?!

LOL! As if we haven’t been dictated to enough this past year, I now felt like I was being told hard. stop. that I needed to either adapt or be left behind. Though this brand is about so much more than fashion, with style in the name – where would I fall in this new style dictatorship?!

That week, we all tried the middle part. Did we all look great? I felt silly. Does my body look it’s best in wide leg jeans with pleats that emphasize (or shall I say super-size) my tummy and hips? Heck no! So I certainly don’t feel my best either. It was a shortlived week of style crisis in my world! haha

The moral of the story was that I was never going to be stylish, if I didn’t feel good about the way I looked.

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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put your best foot forward.

Style is what radiates from within. Fashion is only important if it’s fun.

Trends come and go... and I DO enjoy trends. Classics – like slim jeans and side parts are here to stay. For me, the fun of trends is with the challenge of choosing the ones I want to play with. I piece together a few key items with tried and true classics that flatter and feel great. When it comes to style – you’re in the driver’s seat. Choose what feels great, and confidence is what will make you stylish.

Photo: @iulia.agnew

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

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

AMAZON STORE IS NOW OPEN NO.2 Clear Mules Tap to Shop

NO.1

Braided Hoops Tap to Shop

fun and wearable trends

NO.3 Kyla’s Skirt Tap to Shop

TAP TO VISIT THE SHOP

NO.5

NO.4

Flat Top Sunnies

Kyla’s Scallop Edge Top

NO.7 Chunky Bracelet

Tap to Shop

Tap to Shop

NO.6 Slouchy Tote

Tap to Shop

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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beauty

SPRING FOR IT

Longtime friend and makeup artist to I Like Her Style Vancouver, AX ART’s Annie Truong shares 4 Beauty items to Spring for this Spring.

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BEST BROWS Spring is here and it’s the best time to have your brows Microbladed or Ombré Powder Brows done! The procedure is a 2 appointment process that takes 6 weeks in between appointments. If you want to have smudge-proof, waterproof, effortless brows by Summer, now is the time.

Visit @artistrybyannie for more info and before and afters!

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

Photo: @iulia.agnew

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SPRING TIPS

Are you the girl who always goes for nude nails?

Simple and natural is you MO? Try this super cute and minimalist nail design to change it up! It is fresh and fun and can go with any flirty spring looks you have planned while still looking classy and age appropriate for anyone!

GLOW OUT

Achieving a glow from within look is the ultimate highlight look. Looking like a sparkly disco ball is not the goal. This is why MAKEUP BY MARIO Master Crystal Reflector™ is such a must for anyone who wants fresh looking dewey skin. It is a clear translucent balm that can be applied over makeup. It does not melt your foundation underneath. When applied on the tops of your cheekbones, it gives you the most healthy looking glow.

Can be worn on bare skin or even on eyelids to give yourself a modelesque glow.

@axartatelier | axartatelier.com

beauty

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FRESH FACE

I recently did a Korean BB Glow Treatment with @glowinyvr and was blown away with the results. Simply put, BB Glow is a combination of a powerful tinted serum applied using a microneedling method (don’t worry, it’s painless!). One of the main benefits of basic microneedling is stimulation of natural collagen production and skin rejuvenation, where the BB Glow serum adds incredible nutrients and most importantly the colour tint you desire.

I was a little nervous because I have extremely sensitive skin.

Summer, who performed the treatment on me put me at ease 100%. She really took the time to explain the procedure and her sanitation and cleanliness made me feel very comfortable.

After the relaxing 2 hour BB glow session, my skin looked absolutely flawless.

It was glowing and looked plump and moisturized!

I also did not experience any redness or inflammation from the treatment.

There was no downtime and aftercare is quite simple.

I avoided wearing makeup for 24 hours and a week and my skin has never looked better!

It is such a great treatment following a dry and cold winter.

My skin really loved it.

The treatment cost is $200 with special packages if you book more than 1 session.

Get in contact with Summer @glowinyvr for more info!

Photo: @iulia.agnew

A NEW SEGMENT FROM THIS ISSUE’S COVERGIRL

& T H E C R E AT O R O F T H E E S V E D R A W E L L N E S S A P P

TA P T O W AT C H

Tap to watch the first episode and then visit pages 58-59 to print out and create your own self care plan!

only on instagram @ilikeherstylevancouver W AT C H N E X T:

march 19

april 16

may 21

cover story A PRESCRIPTION FOR PA S S I O N , D E D I C AT I O N , AND ADVENTURE. SO HOW DOES THIS C LI N I C A L P S Y C H O L O G I S T AND ENTREPRENEUR DO IT ALL WITH STYLE AND GRACE? SHE ATT R I B U T E S I T T O H E R ‘SECRET WEAPON’: HER MINDFULNESS PRACTICES.

DR. KAITLYN GOLDSMITH C L I N I C A L P S Y C H O L O G I S T & E S V E D R A W E L L N E S S A P P F O U N D E R

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PARTNER FEATURE

Photos: @pscollectivestudio

I have a passion for women’s health and empowering women through education.

For Dr. Kaitlyn Goldsmith, every day looks different! She wears many hats with her thriving clinical practice in womens’ sexual health, teaching Human Sexuality at UBC, and running a team for her new app – EsVedra Wellness.

Kaitlyn believes that health is not only about the physical domain.

“Our health is about the physical, emotional, and spiritual. I truly believe that to be our healthiest selves, we must prioritize all of these domains,” she shares.

As a yoga instructor, Kaitlyn has found that yoga along with meditation has been paramount on her journey toward health and wellness. Her passion for encouraging others to think holistically when it comes to health led her to create the EsVedra Wellness app in 2020. Through EsVedra, she has brought a community of wellness practitioners from around the globe together to share affordable, accessible, and authentic digital wellness through meditations, podcasts, and video interviews.

Like everyone, there are struggles in life and with so much on her plate, Kaitlyn has adopted a mission for herself. As a self-defined ‘classic Type A personality’, she shares that she has sometimes felt that she’s constantly

pushing herself to work harder to bring her plans and visions to life. “Although being goal-oriented and driven is not a bad thing, I am working on letting go and allowing things to flow a bit more. Looking back on my life so far, I am realizing that every struggle, problem, and rejection has led me to something bigger and better than I had imagined for myself. I’m working on embracing and welcoming experiences as they come with an attitude of gratitude and faith in what life has in store for me.”

On any given day, you’ll usually find Kaitlyn seeing patients, teaching, or meeting with the EsVedra team to work on content creation, event design, and virtual reality design. When she’s not working, she loves to try out new restaurants in Vancouver where she lives with her husband, Brendan.

She also enjoys a nice glass of sparkling wine, her yoga practice and reading.

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I hope that other women see me as a teammate in lifting each other up, breaking through barriers, and shattering glass ceilings. I truly believe there is room for all of us to succeed and we are all in this together.

@drkaitgoldsmith | kaitlyngoldsmith.com @ilikeherstylevancouver

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ON SEXUAL HEALTH

Q: What inspired you to become

a doctor and why the specific

field that you’re in?

I actually did not know what I wanted to study when I started university and considered everything from Dentist to Art Historian to Lawyer. However, when I took my first psychology course, I knew I had found my passion. I chose to focus on women’s health specifically because I have a passion for feminist advocacy and I see the historical challenges women have faced and continue to face when it comes to health equity and particularly sexual health equity.

I am passionate about educating and empowering women to take ownership of their health and I truly believe that strong, healthy, empowered women will change the world.

Q:

What do you love most

about what you do?

Every day, I feel so privileged to hear about some of the most intimate details of people’s lives and to be a support during difficult times. I love empowering my patients with knowledge and skills and watching them do the work to improve their own lives. I am inspired by my patients every day and I’m so grateful to have such a rewarding career.

fantasies, and pleasure. On top of that, it seems we are all expected to “just know” everything about sexuality.

Talk about unreasonable expectations!

I believe that education is at the foundation of improving women’s sexual health and I encourage women to treat sex like any other skill – if you want to learn about it, dedicate some time to read or watch videos about women’s sexuality.

See a few of my book recommendations on the next page!

Q:

What are some of your favorite

rituals or practices that you feel contribute to your sexual health?

When it comes to sexual health, I believe in a holistic approach. This means taking care of yourself mind, body, and spirit.

I find that many of us (myself included!) spend most of the time “in our heads”.

When it comes to sexuality, we need to practice being in our bodies and in the moment. Practices that help move me from “doing” to “being”, such as mindfulness meditation, dance, and music help me practice this.

Q:

What is a common factor

that you see inhibiting women’s sexual health?

I think that a major factor negatively impacting women’s sexual health (and everyone’s sexual health for that matter!), is lack of education. I always say that it seems like sex is everywhere and nowhere at once – we see it on TV and in movies and through lots of jokes and remarks in conversation, but when was the last time someone spoke frankly and honestly about sexual health? For most of us, not often. This is particularly the case for women, who tend to have very few conversations about sexual desire,

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

Dr. Kaitlyn’s reading list Come As You Are

by Emily Nagoski The Guide to Getting it On

by Paul Joannides Tell Me What You Want

by Justin Lehmiller The Defining Decade

by Meg Jay The Untethered Soul

by Michael Singer

Photos: @pscollectivestudio

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What do you think is under-rated?

I think virtual reality is under-rated.

VR is something that many people have some experience with, but the general population is not socialized to using it yet (or even exposed to it…yet!). However, I think the possibilities are so exciting – imagine traveling to exotic spiritual destinations and being guided through traditional wellness practices from the comfort of your home!

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Photos: @pscollectivestudio

ON LIFE & STYLE

Q: What has this “new normal” of

2020-now meant for your life?

It’s been a wild 12 months, that’s for sure!

In terms of my business, everything has moved online, which has meant lots of Zoom meetings and lots of seeing patients over video calls. Despite the “Zoom fatigue”, I think a few good things have come from working online – people have become even more comfortable connecting and building communities virtually, which has been a huge positive for the EsVedra community.

I have had meetings with people from around the world who I might never have reached out to if I hadn’t become so used to using technology to connect.

I have definitely struggled to keep up my workout routine this year and I miss dancing the night away with my girlfriends!

Q:

Soundtrack to your life

these days?

Ariana Grande every day!

Q:

What are a few of your

must-have items?

I am all about shoes – a great pair of shoes is a fashion essential for every outfit! I am also obsessed with perfume and my current favorite is Rose Prick

by Tom Ford. (I get compliments every time I wear it!) I absolutely love diffusing essential oils in my home and love the scent “into the trees” by Saje.

What’s your personal fashion Q:

and style philosophy?

For me, fashion is all about expressing your inner truth and how you want to be seen. This is different for everyone, but for me, I love classic, elegant, and girly styles that are feminine and polished.

And again, my favourite part of an outfit is the shoes – fabulous shoes automatically upgrade an outfit and express so much about someone’s personality!

Q:

What makes you

come alive?

When people come together for a common goal. I am so moved and inspired by incredible communities creating big changes and lifting each other up.

Q:

What things about yourself do

you feel make you relatable?

I prefer to listen rather than speak.

I’m usually the one asking all the questions in the conversation – I find people so interesting! Everybody has a story and I love to hear different perspectives and opinions. I also sometimes struggle with what to bring up in a conversation, especially when meeting new people.

I remind myself that the best strategy is to ask questions – interesting people are interested in people.

my secret weapon Like so many of us, I live a busy life and sometimes feel like I’m in a perpetual state of “information overload”. I find myself trying to be more efficient by thinking ahead about tasks I need to complete and anticipating problems before they even arise.

This habit can take me out of the moment and make me feel overwhelmed. Practicing mindfulness means getting back in touch with my experience in the present moment and being a nonjudgmental observer of my thoughts, rather than getting swept up in them.

When I practice this consistently, my stress levels and irritability are much lower.

@drkaitgoldsmith | kaitlyngoldsmith.com

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The Story of EsVedra EsVedra was born in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, in response to a lack of affordable, accessible, and authentic digital wellness. I wanted to find a way to connect everyone to the people on the ground in spiritual communities like Tulum. This is how EsVedra was born. Today, EsVedra is a community of wellness practitioners from around the world and we are growing every day.

The app is currently available on the app store and we are testing a beta version as we speak. Next, we are working on exciting new developments at the cutting edge of technology and wellness, developing immersive virtual reality experiences! We believe that the future of wellness is rooted in authentic practices and immersive wellness experiences.

EsVedra is building that world one meditation, podcast, and retreat at a time.

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Photo: Alyssa Dawson

Q:

How can someone get the

most out of this app?

Many people find that starting with a short meditation in the morning is a good way to begin a wellness practice. Some people start building a practice from once per week and work their way up to once per day. Research has shown that mindfulness and meditation can have significant positive outcomes on emotional well-being and physical health. Although it can be challenging to begin a new practice, it is never too late to start and no amount is too small to start with!

Q: How do you personally use

EsVedra in your daily life?

It depends how I am feeling!

Some mornings I start my day with an energizing meditation. Other days I can’t sleep, and I listen to a calming meditation. And some days, I just want to take a break and listen to the advice and experiences of other amazing human beings, so I tune in to a podcast. There is a guided journey available for any time of day and any mood you might be in.

Q:

Tell us more about

your team!

Sometimes I cannot believe how fast we are growing. I have an amazing team of 7 incredible female tech innovators, designing immersive online events and building a global community of holistic wellness practitioners. I can’t wait to share more in the coming months about the new team I am building to create EsVedra’s virtual reality experiences. We are very excited for what we believe is the future of wellness - authentic, community-based, immersive, journeys and experiences.

Q:

Tell us about the Ambassador

and Creator Opportunities.

Our ambassadors are your bridge into wellness communities in cities around the world! If you were to fly down to Tulum for example, and wanted to experience a traditional healing practice while in Tulum, EsVedra’s Ambassador Bojana is there to connect you with the local creators in our community there.

Q: What are a few of your favorites

to check out right now?

One of my favourite contributors to EsVedra is Ashley Wray of TAP the Mala Collective - she for more created a Meditation Energy Reset Series that about EsVedra I just tried last week and Wellness I felt so refreshed and centered after completing it. I also really enjoyed a great podcast by Maja Savic on seeking new opportunities - it’s so hard to choose, we have new content uploaded every week and our creators really have Photo: Alyssa Dawson unique and inspiring stories and journeys to share with you.

Our Creators are the heart of EsVedra they are medicine women, yogis, spiritual

Tell us about the Blog! leaders, and healers from local communiOur blog is run by an incredible group ties around the world. They are passionate of undergraduate students who research about sharing their knowledge and pracand summarize the benefits of holistic tices with you and the world to help us all wellness practices. The blog is about grow and thrive. bringing what is old and new together: science-backed research meets spiritual If you want to share your practices wisdom/knowledge that humans have and knowledge with the world, you known for hundreds of years. can email us at hello@esvedra.ca

Q:

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PARTNER FEATURE

feature:

TWENTY EIGHT NORTH STROLL ALONG MAIN STREET AND DISCOVER TWENTY EIGHT NORTH. IT’S A BEAUTIFUL LIFESTYLE SHOP BUILT WITH COMMUNITY AT IT’S VERY HEART.

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Photos in this feature: @iulia.agnew

Meet Carly, the creative entrepreneur behind Vancouver’s Twenty Eight North Did you know that Main Street was voted one the best shopping streets in North America? It truly has something for everyone, from a unique mix of boutiques, to great dining, amazing food and of course Twenty Eight North, an inspiring Lifestyle Boutique that’s nestled in right along one of the best blocks on Main Street & 28th.

Owner Carly is a quintessential creative with an entrepreneurial soul. She has curated a collection from local brands and finds that you’ll see exclusively at ‘T8N’.

With the innovative addition of the new Create Your Own Box Wall, you can combine everyday essential products with featured local services to discover. It’s a unique concept that you won’t find anywhere else in the Lower Mainland!

Carly is also a former member of Team Canada who represented the Canadian Women’s Triathlon at the 2012 ITU Sprint World Championships in Auckland, New Zealand.

“

I’ve always had a very strong creative and entrepreneurial spirit. I always knew that I would be in business for myself.

As an entrepreneur, I draw from my experiences as an athlete competing at a high level and translate the mindset required for success and achievement in sport over into my business.

It’s how I approach my work.

A wife and mother to two young boys, Bodhi (3) and Koa (10 months), Carly has resided in the Lower Mainland for over 20 years after moving from Vancouver Island where she was raised.

Carly shares, “I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur and run a successful company.

I’m a thinker, a dreamer and a doer. I actually told my Mom when I was 5 that when I grew up I wanted to be ‘a hopper, a skipper and a jumper!’ I really have no idea where that came from, but I would definitely call myself multi passionate!

A lifelong equestrian and competitive dressage rider, horses have always been Carly’s passion.

She attributes training, riding and being around the barn as a grounding force for balance as both a Mom and Entrepreneur.

As I went along in my working life and professional career, the biggest realization was just how much I loved creating, working for myself, building a brand and supporting my community. This business really encompasses all those facets, so I think you could say it is what I’ve always dreamed I’d be doing!

@shoptwentyeightnorth | twentyeightnorth.ca

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Photos: @iulia.agnew

O

ur store is truly a lifestyle shop. You will find a wide variety of home decor

products such as blankets, wall signs, and candles from best selling brands such

as Canvas Candle Co. and Suburban Beach Farmhouse Signs. You’ll also discover sustainable clothing and apparel made by Couture Therapy with a great selection of casual everyday wear and basics – a definite customer and staff favourite! Accessorize with fashionable hats by Westvon, and our wide variety of minimal jewellery. We also carry the must-have, buttery soft, most comfortable wireless bras by Fayvori.

In addition, you’ll find makeup and cosmetics, skin care products, and giftable bath & body products by brands such as Beth & Olivia – one of our most beloved brands who has been with us from the very beginning! We also carry men’s apparel by Stede along with a small selection of men’s grooming and apothecary products.

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The Twenty Eight North Story Originally named Sunday Small Goods, in 2018 we initially opened as a 2 week pop-up. I was coming to the end of my mat leave with my first born and I knew I didn’t want to return to my corporate career in sales and marketing. I had zero experience in retail or with how to open up a brick and mortar store, but I was determined to make this happen!

I found the space, negotiated a lease term with an intimidatingly large property development firm, built the website myself, created the logo, found 35 brands through the Artisan Market platforms who wanted to join our store, and sourced the displays in less than 7 days.

Fast forward to 2020, a few months into the pandemic, I really didn’t know if the business was going to survive. We had such significant revenue losses and the original business model of renting space to local product-based brands within our store had completely come to a halt as businesses were no longer willing to rent space, given the landscape. To say our business was hanging on by a thread was an understatement. I remember the moment so clearly that caused me to come to my decision.

I was standing at the park with my kids as my toddler played on the slide and the feeling was so clear and strong. We needed to close down our existing business and change every aspect of how we ran things. This meant changing our entire concept – the name, the brand, the product offering, the store’s aesthetic and the primary revenue model for the business.

Our new name Twenty Eight North is derived mainly from our location on Main just north of 28th, but it also signifies, heading North, meaning keeping on moving forward and up and ties in that we are a Canadian company.

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Photos: @iulia.agnew 34

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

Q:

Who has been your biggest cheerleader?

Throughout the past year and a half I have been a part of the Business Babes Collective Mastermind. I honestly don’t think I would be where I am today or that my business would still be standing through this pandemic had I not had the amazing support of the girls in our group. I would have to say that each and every one of them have been my biggest cheerleaders and especially Danielle Wiebe, who is also my business coach and mentor. I am just so grateful for her incredible support, guidance and belief in both me and my business.

Q:

What’s your number one value

that you take with you?

I would say that I have two: Empathy & Compassion. I always try to relate and put myself in another person’s shoes. Even though the paths we walk are all different, it’s so important to be compassionate towards others and how we may differ.

I try to look through the lens of where someone else is coming from and have compassion for everyone regardless of differing beliefs, views or circumstances.

Q:

Describe the scene as we

watch you in your ‘element’.

Me sitting in front of my computer designing products and getting inspiration from Pinterest. My favourite aspect of what I do is definitely the creation and design of everything!

Q:

When we visit your shop, how

shall we ‘make a day of it’?

Did you know that Main Street was voted one the best shopping streets in North America? Come for a stroll along and discover amazing stores like our neighbours over at Nineteen Ten Home as well as Olive and Wild across the Street. Treat yourself to a facial at Plain Jane Skinbar after having brunch at Meet on Main or Chickpea.

Sooo delicious! Pick up some sweets at Trafiq just down the street, their in house baked goods are to die for. If you are visiting in the later afternoon or evening, The Shameful Tiki right next door to us is an absolute must experience, they have delicious tapas and incredible cocktails! Last but not least, grab a Chai from East is East, they are the best you will ever have!

Q:

TA P T O W AT C H

Meet Carly & Shop with Kyla Check out the video... let’s go!

Where do you see this

brand in 5-10 years?

Some of our bigger picture growth projects that we have for the future are having our own robust T8N product line collection of Bath, Body & Home products which we would like to branch out into having in other retail stores. We would also like to take our brand into the US market and grow more locations. I actually always dreamed of having our store in every major airport across Canada, but I may need to revise that plan now!

With my love for interior design we are also looking at the possibilities of growing the brand into the design and vacation home sectors in the future.

@shoptwentyeightnorth | twentyeightnorth.ca

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TWENTY EIGHT NORTH

SPRING GIFT GUIDE With so many beautiful celebrations upon us in Spring, we had a ball shopping and sharing our favourite gifts from Twenty Eight North.

shop | twentyeightnorth.ca

Photos: @iulia.agnew

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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shop

NO.1

KOA Candle

From Twenty Eight North’s very own brand, the KOA candle was named after Carly’s son. You’ll love the scent blend of coconut, grapefruit and vanilla for spring.

NO.2

Beauty Treats

Artist Approved Makeup Brush Artist Approved Blush Shadow Rose Quartz Facial Roller

Photos: @iulia.agnew

shop

shop | twentyeightnorth.ca

NO.3

Lavender Lemon Bath Bomb Square The gift of relaxation from Beth And Olivia Handmade – perfect for Mother’s Day or that special friend’s birthday.

NO.4 Rose Quartz Heart

Rose Quartz purifies and opens the heart at all levels to promote love, self-love, friendship, deep inner healing and feelings of peace. Calming and reassuring, it helps to comfort in times of grief. It dispels negativity and protects against pollution, replacing it with loving vibes.

NO.5

Turkish Throw

The droplet brand is locally and female owned. Their throws are ethically made in Turkey of 100% Organic Cotton.

Photos: @iulia.agnew

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NO.6 The Gift of Fashion

Featuring this buttery soft and comfy tie dye top by Gilmour.

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NO.7 Salt & Sage Bracelets

Salt + Sage pieces are designed with intention and hand crafted with care, infused with the healing energy of reiki.

NO.8 Vooguish Backpack

This backpack from Canadian company Vooguish will brighten any day and any outfit just in time for Spring!

NO.9 Gift Card

The gift of experiencing this lifestyle store and shopping from T8N’s amazing selection.

Photos: @iulia.agnew 41

NO.10

the essentials + experience’ box bar only $39

+ Optional Experience

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

the essentials + experience’ box bar The business was built on community and this has always been at the heart of what we do. Even though our business model has changed and renting space to brands is no longer our primary focus, we have found a new way to be able to support local businesses in our community through our ‘Essentials + Experience’ Box which features a local service based business each month where you can add on services

such as facials, a haircut, massage, beauty treatment, etc., with your create your own box available in store.

We’re also rolling this out online this month! The Create Your Own Box is an area in the store where you can choose 5 products from a selection of everyday essentials from deodorants to soap, lip balm, shampoo, dryer balls, hand lotion, face wash, etc.

@shoptwentyeightnorth | twentyeightnorth.ca

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business

THE COLLECTIVE by BUSINESS BABES CO.

tap here!

Visit the Business Babes Co. Website for more info

@ilikeherstylevancouver

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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

MORE INFO

SIGN UP NOW!

USE PROMOCODE: KYLA10 FOR $10 OFF YOUR MEMBERSHIP

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serve

White Table’s Blushing Citrus Cocktail says ‘Spring’ like no other! It’s a beautiful way to sip and celebrate this season! @whitetablecatering

Photo: @brooklyndphotography

BLUSHING CITRUS COCKTAIL 46

M I X O L O G Y

BLUSHING CITRUS COCKTAIL

Ingredients 2 fl oz gin

@brooklyndphotography

1 fl oz simple syrup 1 fl oz grapefruit juice 1 fl oz lemon juice 1 fl oz egg white Dried grapefruit rounds (cut into desired segments) Pansy flowers (edible)

When it comes to entertaining and impeccable presentation, nobody does it quite like friend and contributor Carlyanne Pruger and husband Mark. They are the expert talent behind White Table Catering Co. OUR YOU TUBE CHANNEL

Directions Combine egg white, simple syrup, grapefruit juice, lemon juice and gin in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

Shake for 30 seconds, with the lid tightly secured.

Pour into a cocktail glass spooning on extra egg white to the top if desired and garnish with dried grapefruit segment pieces and pansy flowers.

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Photo: @iulia.agnew

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!

nira’s

HOT LIST MARCH 2021

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nira’s hot list

SPRING CLEAN YOURSELF

BY N IR A AR OR A

It’s that time of year –Spring is in the air! There are many ways to practice Spring cleaning. Traditionally, it’s in our closets, as we purge the old and add some new spring love to our wardrobes. But there are other ways to get that refreshed feeling by starting with ourselves. Let’s take spring cleaning to a new level by giving your mind, body and spirit a well-deserved boost!

HE RE A RE A F E W OF MY S UGGES T ION S T O H EL P Y OU G E T S TA RT E D AN D EN ER GIZED F OR S PR IN G.

NO.1

Silk’n Flash&Go Pro The Silk’n Flash&Go Pro has been a major BFF for me this past year. It’s a hair removal device that you can easily use on larger areas such as arms and legs.

The best part? You can use it at your convenience and for those last minute moments when you just need some good riddance. I’ve always been a fan of laser hair removal – It’s the Indian in me, my fellow POC girls might know exactly what I’m talking about! We might not have been able to keep up to date like we normally would with our grooming, but the Silk’n Flash&Go Pro at least allows us to keep up with the maintenance.

The key is to start now, as we get into warmer weather we’re nicely prepared.

1

www.silkn.com | @silknsolution Photo: @iulia.agnew

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nira’s hot list

2 50

NO.2

Next Door Closet

Sell what you own and buy what you need.

What is Next Door Closet? They are a localized Marketplace Destination where everyone is invited to shop, sell & discover.

It’s a way for you to connect with your community of fashion lovers and make a positive environmental impact.

Sustainable fashion is the future. We can reduce our environmental footprint by retraining our brain and still have fun being fashionistas and experimenting with different fashion pieces.

Authenticity is guaranteed, every item sold is 100% authenticated and in beautiful condition. This is also a wonderful way to turn your closet into cash for your next treasure.

www.nextdoorcloset.com | @nextdoorcloset.app

NO.3

Smash+Tess

Would you like to jump into Spring with quality, style, and comfort?

How about we add Vancouver-designed, North American made, and globally inspired?

Let me introduce you to Smash+Tess.

Their best selling romper fabric is a sustainable rayon from a bamboo and cotton blend. It has proven to stand the test of time and retain its shape and softness when treated well.

Smash+Tess ensures their clothing is made in the very best working conditions by skilled and talented seamsters.

They are a mother-daughter-bestie team that were all obsessed with stylish sleepwear. A few years of brainstorming, dreaming and serious fashion schooling later, Smash + Tess was born, finally bringing women the everywear they deserve and helping to build a community that celebrates comfortability, style, and girl power!

The Tuesday Romper in Sahara Tiger is the latest and greatest from Smash + Tess. 66% Sustainable Rayon from Bamboo, 28% Cotton, 6% Spandex Sizes XXS Petite-XXXL, it’s also available in Midnight Black.

Once you put on a Smash+Tess romper you will understand the cult following and why there is something called The Romper Awards! Send them pics wearing your favourite piece. #smashtessgirls.

www.smashtess.ca | @smashtess

3 Photo: @iulia.agnew

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nira’s hot list NO.4

The Icing on the Cake Jacket

by PK Beans

4

I’m seriously obsessed with this jacket – so much so that I contacted PK Beans and let them know that I need an adult version of it! (I’m not sure if that’s happening... ha!) First of all, the velvet. They had me at velvet. Then, it’s in this mesmerizing sapphire blue shade. THEN... the floral inside! That’s the spring flare I was talking about! If you’re looking for a sweet spring piece for your little one – this is it! Plus, PK Beans quality is next level. My youngest is wearing PK Beans hand-me-downs from my eldest to the middle and now to her, still in great condition! If you’re looking for it - it’s the ICING ON THE CAKE JACKET - MIDNIGHT BLUE. Plus you can use the promo code NIRA15 to get a 15% discount! www.pkbeans.com | @pkbeanskids

NO.5

Nira to Raise $25K for Options Community Services

They say it’s a sure way to help give your spirits a boost by giving back to others. I’d love to tell you about a project I’m working on. I’m helping to raise 25 thousand dollars for an affordable housing project in Surrey with Options Community Services. It’s a 1.5 million dollar initiative. There are 50 of us women in the community who each need to raise 25K! It’s a super amazing cause to help the community and those that need someone to give them a chance to get on their feet again.

READ THE ARTICLE

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Think of women fleeing domestic violence.

Refugees with nothing in their name. People who have suffered from addiction or mental health issues who can finally get ahead, if given the chance. Children in the foster care program that somehow got lost in the system. @ilikeherstylevancouver

Photo: @iulia.agnew

5

You can help by:

A donation at your comfort level - every dollar can make a huge difference.

Spreading the word and the link amongst your family and friends.

READ THE ARTICLE

VISIT MY DONATION PAGE

Very appreciated! Nira https://womenofoptions.ca/nira-arora | @optionscommunityservices 53

fearlessly feminine

SPRING STYLE STRATEGY

BY SARAH BOHDANOVA

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

Photo: @projectali

“Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.” ~ DIA NNE VON FURSTENBURG

So what is it that keeps us from finding it? All woman desire to look and feel good, but few would claim they actually hit the mark.

Countless style forums and google searches echo the sentiments of frustrated fashionistas… “I have a closet full of clothes, and nothing to wear.” “Nothing fits me right.” “I don’t know how to pull it together.” “I’m just not fashionable.” “My clothes don’t represent me.” Maybe you can relate? ​ tyle is a visual representation of the woman you are, and the S woman you aspire to be. When your internal story is in conflict with your external portrayal, it’s a breeding ground for frustration and stress.

But here is the GREAT news! Wherever you are on the style spectrum, it’s not that complicated. Actually, it’s as simple as 1,2,3! Every woman (and her closet) needs a Style Strategy.

When you have one, dressing and shopping becomes fun! It also gives you complete confidence that the message you are putting out there, is the message you want.

A Style Strategy is comprised of 3 elements: ​ . Defining your Style Umbrella.

1 2. Learning how to dress for your Body Type and Season.

3. Building up your Essential Wardrobe.

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A fun and easy way to get started is to throw yourself a Pinterest Party.

Pour yourself a bevvy (wine, tea, maybe a bourbon – look at you go!), and set your timer for 60 uninterrupted minutes.​During this time you must pin unabashedly! Look up clothes and start pinning (If you don’t know where to start, think of a celebrity whose style you like and go down the rabbit hole from there). Pin without judgment! That’s important. Once the timer goes off, you’re going to ask yourself some questions.

What are the patterns and trends you see? Are there similar colors, designs, or styles that show up? Are you attracted to minimalist or extravagant looks? Would you describe them as cute, sexy, sophisticated, edgy, fresh, elegant? Maybe they remind you of fashion from a particular country – Italian, French, Japanese, Spanish? Jot it all down!

Once you’ve written down what you see, choose 2-3 words that will become your Style Umbrella. These words should reflect how you want to feel in your outfits, and how you want to be perceived by others. They will also serve as a lens and filter for future purchases.

For example, if your Style Umbrella is comprised of “sophisticated, bold, and graceful”, you’ll probably think twice before swiping your visa on that cute polka dot tee. It will be the constant reminder of staying focused on building a closet you actually want to wear.

Developing your personal style will touch ALL areas of your life. I have never met a woman who wouldn’t testify that her quality of life improved dramatically once she got her style on point. It marries how you want to look, with how you look.

Style Workshop

Our March workshop is all about “Building your Essential Wardrobe”. During this hour we’ll cover what items should serve as the foundations in your closet, so you can mix and match your wardrobe, and dressing becomes easy!

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO *PROMOCODE: KYLAWS30 FOR 30% OFF

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

A NEW SEGMENT FROM THE CREATOR O F T H E F E M I N I N I T Y P RO J E CT

TA P T O W AT C H

Tap to watch Sarah share How to Define your 3 Style Key Words.

only on instagram @ilikeherstylevancouver W AT C H N E X T:

april 2

may 7

work book AS SEEN ON

her HEALTH W I T H D R . K A I T LY N

Tap to watch the first episode and then use the following page for your Self Care Plan.

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@ilikeherstylevancouver

Print and Clip!

SELF CARE PLAN for the week of

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:

As seen in Dr. Kaitlyn’s video segment, 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.

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Happy Springtime Darling. @ilikeherstylevancouver

Photo: shutterstock.com/Floral Deco