Women Entrepreneurs Coming together to support one another to success Crisp and casual autumn fashion Fall Wines
The Mint Experience Winnipeg VOL 1 ISS 4 Sept 2021
Enter our 1st Annual Holiday Creation Contest Our featured recipe contest comes to us courtesy of Manitoba Egg Farmers
Who is ready for delicious eats with great company? Did you know …
The best dishes start with EGGS! Send in your holiday creations that nourish your soul as much as your taste buds. We can’t wait to see the baked goods, pastas, or breakfasts that your family craves. Holiday meals bring us together and we can’t wait to join in your family tradition.
you can eat eggs for any meal, not just breakfast. They’re the perfect food for anytime – healthy, affordable and easy to make for any meal or snack!
HOW TO PARTICIPATE •
Follow @mintmarketingexperience AND @eggsmanitoba on Instagram
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On your Instagram profile, share photos of your delicious holiday creation – EGGS must be one of the ingredients
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Use the hashtag #eggsforholidayMINT
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Entry deadline: October 17th 2021
This contest is hosted on Instagram!
PRIZE • •
Gift Basket valued at $750 Winning Recipe & Photo printed in Mint Magazine Holiday Issue November 2021
For more information visit or www.mintmarketingexperience.ca/holidaybaking2021
Mint Winter & Holiday Edition November 2021.
Have your business seen by over 60,000 targeted readers. Shop local is hardly a trend – it’s a mindset that more and more people are embracing. Consumers are investing in local businesses, looking to support their communities – and more significantly, the people that make those communities what they are.
Feature your business in the Mint Must Have Holiday Guide Feature
Love where you live #shoplocal
The Mint Experience Inc. Brandon 204-721-1296 Winnipeg 204-698-2424 hello@mintmarketingexperience.ca www.mintmarketingexperience.ca
FIRST WORD From Editor in Chief
Volume 1 Issue 4, September 2021
JAMIE WILLEY
Publisher Mint Marketing Experience Inc.
Editor Jamie Willey
Graphic Designer Ghislaine Moffitt
Writers Lisa Cress
Contributing Writers Shelby Wood, Kim Raaikamakers, Michael van Lierop Anna Dumas, Amie Hutton, Raschelle Sabourin
Photographer Studio 78
Cover Photo Studio 78
his fall issue comes out as we are in the middle of our ‘getting back to busy’ season. The kids are back at school, we are settling into our routine that seems to have been completely off in the past 18 months. There is a mix of excitement, relief and appreciation for routine and the upcoming Fall months.
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In this issue, I am grateful for the new connections of inspiring and simply amazing women. Our cover feature is vast array of Women Entrepreneurs who are all connected by their drive, passion and vision. Success can spark from many sources, but it truly ignites when women help each other rise to the top. Connecting through their own journeys, each with unique qualities and passions that have helped them rise, their dedication to continuous growth, read about their brands, business and connection to the community. We share stories and recipes of comforting dishes and wine that has left our mouths watering and looking forward Sunday evening suppers with the family, or a simple way to treat ourselves after a full week. With our first ever Holiday creation contest, we can’t wait to see how your meals and creations play an important part of your family traditions. While Fall can be a coming back to home life, we share stories on settling back into a routine that is good for the soul, creating a home environment that is comforting through our plants and décor – we want to inspire and encourage you to create your best life that brings happiness and comfort. We had a fun time collaborating and putting this issue together and hope you are entertained and inspired by these stories that make Winnipeg interesting and unique.
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Cover Hair & Make Up Nancy Dutiaume Owner / MADE Beauty Company Brittany Monkman & Kayla Hedley / MADE Beauty Company
Cover Styling Constance Kusie, Owner and Lead Planner of Harlow Events Stephanie Bockstael, Owner & Designer, Stephanie Bockstael Design Krystle Pagkalinawan, Owner & Designer, Plant Lab Botanical Design
Fashion Lennard Taylor
PRINT ADVERTISING & DIGITAL MARKETING INQUIRIES hello@mintmarketingexperience.ca FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES Jamie Willey jamie@mintmarketingexperience.ca 204-721-1296
mintmarketingexperience.ca The Mint Experience is published by Mint Marketing Experience Inc. The Mint Experience Winnipeg is published 6 times per calendar year. Articles and art may not be reprinted without written permission from the Publisher. Mint Marketing Experience Inc assumes no responsibility to return any unsolicited editorial or graphic material. Mint Marketing Experience Inc. considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible, although reporting inaccuracies can occur; consequently readers using this information should do so at their own risk.
Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 29 10th Street Unit J Brandon, MB R7A 4E4
CONTENTS 8 28 38 47
IN THIS ISSUE 8
Fashion & Beauty
16
Health & Wellness
28
Eats & Drinks
38
House & Home
48
Local Culture
FEATURES 8
Crisp Autumn Fashion
34
Fall Wines
47
Cover Story: Women Entrepreneurs
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CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE
JAMIE WILLEY Born and raised in Manitoba, Jamie comes from a long line of entrepreneurs. Owner of Studio 78, and Editor in Chief of The Mint Experience, Jamie has a soft spot for the fearless business community. Combining her creative photography talents with her business roots, she is proudly bringing stories and inspiration with Manitoba’s best magazine. Jamie also combines her print marketing skills to the digital marketing platforms, and along with her team The Mint Marketing Experience collaborates with businesses country-wide. Jamie has a love for cooking, and of course delicious wines.
RASCHELLE SABOURIN Raschelle Sabourin is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor, which has a virtual private practice in Manitoba. She focuses on helping her clients improve their relationship with food through Intuitive Eating. Many of her clients are struggling with disordered eating, emotional or binge eating and eating disorders. With over ten years of experience in her field, she has a true passion for helping her clients overcome these struggles. Reach out to Raschelle at (204) 227-6323 or visit her website www.sabourinnutrition.com for more information.
AIME HUTTON Aime Hutton is a true miracle survivor. Being born 3 months early was just the start of the challenges Aime has overcome in her life time. Hailing from Calgary, Alberta Canada, as a Youth Diversity Advisor, Aime helps educators, youth leaders, and caring adults facilitate safe spaces for young female students so they can instill connection, inclusion, and courage in themselves. Aime also mentor’s young teen girls privately 1:1 to build their own courage, their true voice, and trust in themselves. As a 5-time international best-selling author/compiler Aime shares hope, healing, and inspiration through her writing. Aime sits on the Gender and Sexual Diversity Advisory Board with the Calgary Police Service, and she represents Alberta on the National Network for Mental Health Alliance Board. www.aimehutton.ca
LISA CRESS Lisa Cress is an advertising specialist, writer and wannabe fantasy author living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She started her freelance career under the name Slay it in Writing in 2019 and has had the opportunity to write and create for a variety of publications and companies. Her expertise is in connecting businesses to their audiences with copy and creative that engages, entertains and inspires. Get in touch with her at slayitwithlisa@gmail.com.
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SHELBY WOOD Shelby absolutely has a deep appreciation for food, and is working on putting together a cookbook, which is a real passion project for her. Since her Dad passed pretty horrifically 3 years ago she found herself searching for understanding and mainly ways to work through trauma and grief. For Shelby, food it is not only nourishment, but a real form of love, bringing people together in a special way. Especially right now with what is going on in our world, it can connect us from right inside our homes. The kitchen is the heart, it’s where the tunes get turned up! “Probably embarrassingly, if you could be a fly on the wall, as I sing into my kitchen utensil, and sassily dance like I’m Beyonce, but hey, that’s the joy!” says Shelby
MICHAEL VAN LIEROP Michael van Lierop is President & Founder of New Outlook Wealth, a Manitobabased wealth & advisory firm that brings financial planning and low investment management fees to all Canadians, regardless of their wallet size. Visit their website at www.newoutlook.ca to learn more and to find an advisor!
KIM RAAIJMAKERS Kim Raaijmakers is a mom of two, a business professional of 20+ years and personal development junkie turned transformation coach. Kim is helping women leaders create their best lives, by creating clarity of their vision, developing undeniable belief and discovering strategies that make success inevitable. What began as a personal journey, she has turned into a mission to help women experience the same freedom. When you’re ready for your best life, reach out for a conversation at info@kimraaijmakers.com or check out kimraaijmakers.com
ANNA DUMAS Anna is an avid food lover. She has worked in the restaurant industry since she was 18, and specializes in mixology and bartending, and is the Office Manager at WLB & Assocoates. Anna is well known for her unique love of Tequila, Orange, and Cinnamon. She has a passion for wine, and took her WSET level 2 Wine and Spirits course at Banville & Jones. Her two children take up any additional time she has, unless it’s selflessly trying wines and making pairing notes for Mint.
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FASHION & BEAUTY
Crisp and casual
AUTUMN FASHION BY STYLE BAR PHOTOS BY JAMIE MAE PHOTOGRAPHY Summer fashion may bring us sundresses, and chic sandals, but there’s nothing quite like embracing the art of layering when it comes time for fall. There are plenty of wardrobe updates your closet needs for cooler weather—from boots to denim and beyond. It’s time to welcome layering season with open arms.
Step into Fall with Shackets, whether they are plaid, printed or solid, this trend is here to stay. Oversized Shirt Jacket $115, Bodysuit $49
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A statement sweater to keep you warm. The peplum detail on this sweater is both flattering and trendy. Jessica Sweater $69
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Cozy Up in your new favourite Cardigan, The Jamie Plaid Cardigan, $84, It is sure to keep you warm through those chilly Months.
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Take your dress from the office to a night out with the girls. The June Pleated Midi Dress, $92 looks amazing on its own, or paired with our Tina Faux Leather jacket $135
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Best texturizing sprays that are godsend for your hair Discover your hair’s true potential with texturizing sprays. Making your straight hair more edgy, ponytails less flat and waves more messy. Another amazing thing about texturizing spray is that it literally adds texture to your hair, which makes it more manageable for styling. Clean, silky soft hair doesn’t typically hold a curl or a braid very well. Spraying texturizing spray all over before curling or braiding and you’ll find that the hair will hold the style much better. How do texturizing sprays work? A quality texturizing spray will add volume to the hair without weighing it down so that it appears fuller. It should give your strands lots of natural movement without making it feel crunchy or stiff. 12
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1 R+CO BALLOON DRY VOLUME This light as air finishing spray adds instant volume and touchable texture. Warm romantic scents of cardamom, pineapple, tangerine, lavender, and bamboo. Spray at roots for volume. For an all-over finished look, flip hair over and spray from midlengths to ends.
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SHU UEMURA WATA WAVE DRY TEXTURIZING HAIR SPRAY
IGK BEACH CLUB VOLUME TEXTURE SPRAY
The legendary Wave Dry Texturizing Hair Spray maintains volume and works to make second-day hair look its best. Wata Wave builds volume and movement in fine hair while enhancing definition and extending that perfect blow dry on normal to thick hair and provides buildable texture with long-lasting flexible hold for a matte finish Not to mention, you’ll likely look forward to spraying this gem just to get a whiff of its warm and spicy smell.
4 CHI TEXTURIZING SPRAY This spray provides buildable texture and lift, allowing you to layer it whenever your hair needs a little boost throughout the day. We also love that it offers thermal protection, so you can feel free to use it alongside your favorite hot tools without fear of damaging your hair. This weightless formula is perfect for all hair types.
Wishing you were reading a book while listening to the calming noise of the ocean waves? IGK delivers a salty, windswept look in seconds without heaviness, stickiness, or drying. This versatile texture spray can be used on wet or dry hair for your specific needs. You will live how it adds volume and texture to hair to create a sexy, wind-blown look, and it also adds fullness, hold, and a cool, matte finish.
5 COLOR WOW’S STYLE ON STEROIDS COLOR-SAFE TEXTURE SPRAY If you’re worried about a texture spray changing the color of your gorgeous strands, rest assured, Color Wow’s Style on Steroids Color-Safe Texture Spray won’t darken or make your hair appear dull in any way. On top of that, the formula is also infused with glycerin, which works to add moisture to hair, and delivers the perfect amount of volume and texture for a fuller, healthier-looking mane.
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Hyaluronic Acid Ultra-Hydrating, your skin will love you for it 14
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Hyaluronic acid is commonly found in your
favorite serums, sheet masks, moisturizers, and is an important addition to your daily skin-care regimen. That’s because HA, a molecule that occurs naturally in the skin, binds to water to plump up your skin and give it that dewy, glowy effect.
DID YOU KNOW
that hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally present in the human body. Highest in concentration in fluids in the eyes and joints, its main function is to retain water to keep your tissues well lubricated and moist.
WHAT IS HYALURONIC ACID? Increasing the hydration in the skin, hyaluronic acid keeps your skin looking fresh, full, and bouncy. Natural hyaluronic acid is bound to collagen on one side and links to water molecules on the other, giving skin its plumpness.
WHY IS HYALURONIC ACID SO IMPORTANT? As we age, we lose collagen and hyaluronic acid naturally, so the skin becomes dehydrated more easily. In our harsh Manitoba weather, using certain skincare products and our underlying skin conditions can be the cause of breaks in our protective skin barrier, allowing water to escape. Creating a tailored skin-care regimen with moisturizing products can be extra beneficial. “Hydrating skin-care ingredients including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, colloidal oatmeal, urea, propylene glycol, and sorbitol all act as humectants that attract water to the skin in an effort to hydrate it,” Shainhouse says. These ingredients are widely used in products such as moisturizers, eye creams, and serums. By using products such as The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum, you’ll firm the skin around the eye area, increase moisture to get rid of puffiness and soften fine lines on the rest
of the face. Hyaluronic acid is amazing to use because penetrates easily, which is why it works so well when applied topically. It’s lightweight and watery and that give it the ability to lock in moisture to fully hydrate the skin.
WHO SHOULD USE HYALURONIC ACID? Hyaluronic acid is great for all skin types. In most cases, it’s gentle and does not trigger acne, rosacea, or allergic skin reactions. Hyaluronic acid helps the skin maintain moisture and helps the tissue regeneration process involved in healing wounds. Those with dry and/or more mature skin will benefit the most from using hyaluronic acid. Our bodies produce less of it as we age, therefore replacing hyaluronic acid topically will have a huge impact. People may be aware of the benefits of hyaluronic acid as an ingredient in skincare but may not be aware of its versatility. Using hyaluronic acid supplements or topical products can help people maintain a youthful appearance and tackle many signs of aging. However, it can also help treat some medical conditions, such as helping to heal wounds, smoothing skin texture or joint pain.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS Business Profile | Marc Plante
MARC PLANTE
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Take complete control of the most important thing in life… YOU. Mental wellness and true mental toughness is the ability to adapt and excel beyond what is perceived possible. BY MARC PLANTE, PLANTE’S MENTAL WELLNESS
It doesn’t matter who you are as a person. It matters who you are trying to be! Imagine where you would be, if you spent the same amount of time taking care of yourself mentally as a person takes care of themselves physically. Immediately take yourself to another level that you may never thought was possible, by investing in yourself mentally.
for many schools, including sessions for LIFT-SAGE and the Oxford University International Round Table Invitation (London, England). I have also successfully worked with many elite athletic teams as well as countless one-on-one sessions with elite athletes. Most people will affectionally refer to and remember my sessions as “Be the Frog!”.
When dealing with any aspect of life, whether it be dealing with difficult people, bullies, your marriage, finances, health issues, career goals or any adversity you may face, Plante’s Mental Wellness Workshop holds the key to the process that is essential for all to succeed.
While the core fundamentals of each workshop remain the same the lessons and processes of achieving true mental toughness can be applied to any situation life will throw at you. Having an awareness and understanding of true mental toughness will allow you to reach beyond what you thought was possible, exceed your expectations and overcome any form of adversity that comes your way.
Taking care of your mind is the same as taking care of your body. When your body is sick, you rest. If you have a sore throat or a cough, you take medicine. If you hurt your body or pull a muscle, you rest and take care of your body. I have learned how to exercise and eat healthy to take care of my body. I have also learned to ice my injuries or use a roller to help my back, but I go to the professionals when I need help with areas beyond my daily knowledge of how to take care of myself physically. The same thing applies when someone is feeling mental unrest, mental fatigue, or mental anxiety. You need to use the same process to help your body heal itself and rehabilitate yourself, in order for you to be strong again. Just like physically you may see a chiropractor, mentally you may see a therapist or a life coach to help you deal with whatever is bothering you at that time. Dealing with mental issues should be the same as dealing with physical issues. Both are perfectly normal and occur frequently throughout our lifetime. I provide people with the tools and skills necessary to take care of themselves mentally. Plante’s Mental Wellness is the place to start cultivating the mindset needed not only to help you when you are in need but also preventative strategies to help you avoid having serious mental issues to deal with. During my 32 year career as a teacher and Assistant Coach for the Brandon University Women’s Basketball team for the past 9 years, I have facilitated successful workshops
Regardless of where you are at or how you feel about your current situation, my workshops will provide you with the means and confidence to take control of any situation and get yourself on the right path to a place of true happiness and fulfillment. Let me be clear: my workshops deal with real issues in life and will bring about immediate changes at an amazingly fast rate. Everyone has only one life to live. It’s your life. The people you love and people who love you, deserve to get the most out of that one life. Get firsthand knowledge, skills and applications of what Marc’s Wellness Sessions have to offer you as well as, every important person in your life. Unlock a whole new world of life experiences awaiting you. Contact Marc now and take your first steps to immediately changing your life and others with you. You deserve to experience everything this amazing world has to offer in a way you’ve never imagined.
Marc Plante – Plante’s Mental Wellness 204-724-5123 plantesmentalwellness@gmail.com www.marcplante.com
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Yes, you can have a holiday every day! BY KIM RAAIJMAKERS
Summer holidays are just behind us and we’re into what a beautiful fall before the long dark evenings of winter begin. Even though this transition happens every year, are you finding yourself already longing back to your summer holiday or planning the next summer holiday and wishing it was here already?
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Summer holidays are great times for family, friends, relaxation and reflection. In our often busy lives, your holiday may be the only time that life actually slows down enough that you are present to each day and soaking up the enjoyment. Possibly bottling it up so that you can survive until your next summer holiday comes around again. What if instead of constantly looking to the next summer holidays, you could simply extend it? Practically speaking, yes you need to work and you can’t be on holidays every day AND yet within your mind it is possible.
So how can you make it possible in your mind to continue being on holiday? How can you extend that feeling of being present, rejuvenated? Take time each day to recreate and visualize your holidays. Whether it is in a quiet corner in your home, over a cup of coffee in the morning or just before you go to sleep, allow yourself time to experience a day of your holiday. Picture it in your mind, feel the wind and sun, hear the birds chirping and the water splashing. Make it as colorful and as alive as possible.
One of the major benefits of any type of holidays, is that when you are out of your daily must do’s and get it done lists, your mind has the space to free think, see possibilities and gain clarity. I know that when I have been on holidays, I come back feeling alive, rejuvenated, brimming with ideas and insights on how I want life to be.
Doing this each day, actually primes your brain and your body to experience a daily holiday. Here’s a little secret: your brain can’t tell the difference between a real experience and one you made up. That means you can have a holiday each and every day of your life – if only for 10 – 20 minutes. This also gives you mind the space it needs to be able to be more innovative and creative. Plus it is a great mood booster, any time of the day.
Why then does the sense of being alive then end within a few days of getting back to work? Because you’ve stepped back into your old environment and the comfortable habits that made it easy to get everything done. Easy though does not equal happy, fulfilled or feeling alive.
You’ll find yourself better able to make decisions, be more present in your daily life, and really get enjoyment out of what you’re doing. Take this on for 30 days and I guarantee you’ll see a massive shift in how you feel and experience life, plus how you’re showing up at home and at work! So are you ready to take a holiday?
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Nourishment is a Form of Self Care BY RASCHELLE SABOURIN, REGISTERED DIETITIAN
Nourishing our bodies with adequate food and fluids are some of the most essential components of self-care. Diet culture has encouraged us to view certain foods as “good” and “bad” foods and be hyper-focused with what we’re eating. In society, we tend to focus on being at a perfect weight, but we do not consider the adverse physical and psychological effects of this. Diet culture is heavily immersed in society, and it takes a conscious effort to move away from it. Diets have been shown to decrease metabolism, sense of willpower and negatively impact mental health. Studies show there is an increase in binge eating, preoccupation with food, and feelings of deprivation. Dieting raises your risk for weight cycling and is an increased predictor for developing eating disorders or disordered eating. Intuitive Eating is a selfcare eating framework that helps us get back to listening to our internal cues, such as our hunger and fullness cues. All bodies deserve to be treated with respect and dignity with this framework. There are ten principles developed by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch, the creators of Intuitive Eating: • Reject the Diet Mentality • Honour Your Hunger • Make Peace with Food • Challenge the Food Police • Feel Your Fullness
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• Discover the Satisfaction Factor • Cope with your Emotions Without Using Food • Respect Your Body • Exercise – Feel the Difference • Honour Your Health With Gentle Nutrition Intuitive Eating breaks you free from dieting and gives you more freedom to live your life. Some of the benefits include improved blood cholesterol, blood pressure, body image and psychological health. It is important to remember that your body is amazing, and no matter what, all bodies deserve to be properly nourished.
Creating an Inspiring Autumn Routine
to Fall in Love With BY STEFANIE BARANOWSKI, DIAMOND LOTUS YOGA
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orning walks with my dog are always my favourite time of day. It’s the one routine that stays relatively consistent throughout the year as my dog holds me accountable for staying in that joyful commitment. Fall time is the time of year I look forward to the most to walk my dog. The air is crisp in the morning forcing me to wear my long sleeve shirts and sweaters to keep me warm. The colours of red, orange and yellow create an ambience of autumn warmth for the soul that is creatively inspiring. Each day when I return back home from my morning walk, I’m eager to make my warm morning coffee or tea to enjoy while I sit, journal and respond to emails. The warmth of my hot morning beverage warms me from the inside out.
I find myself gravitating towards the comfort of routine and self-reflection.
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You can see it coming, September is just a turn of the page in your calendar as you start preparing for back to school, extracurricular activities, and new and renewed habit creating. Just as the trees let go of their leaves in the fall, we have the opportunity to see fall as a time of self-reflection, letting go and transition. It’s a great time to renew our set of goals and priorities and let go of what no longer serves us. It’s very common to want to resist transition and change. Human beings like what is consistent and predictable. Transition into a new job role, a new stage in life, or even a new season can feel somewhat stressful. Here are some things to draw into your consciousness as you transition into the autumn season; letting go of what doesn’t serve you and creating space for what does serve you.
1. Engage in activities that push you towards your goals. When you fill your time up with activities that push you towards accomplishing your bigger goals, life starts to feel more productive. Waking up in the morning with a spring in your step and motivation in your heart knowing that you are working towards something meaningful draws in a more purposeful life.
2. Create a schedule that you can fall in love with. There is nothing worse than waking up, seeing your ‘To Do’ list for the day and wishing you could just go back to bed. When you set up your calendar and your schedule with activities, events, commitments and meetings you look forward to doing it makes it exciting and inspiring. Waking up each morning to look forward to the day ahead is more fun and enjoyable for yourself and the people around you.
3. A balanced schedule is essential to maintain balance within yourself. Balance is a continuous practice as you move through your weeks. It’s easy to add one more thing to the calendar as things pop up in life but make sure not to overload your calendar to the point where you are drained of energy. Its key to create a healthy balance and to consciously maintain that balance as you move through your week to avoid burn out. When you maintain a balanced schedule, you maintain a balance within yourself mentally and emotionally. Don’t be shy, schedule in that block of time weekly or daily just for you to do some self-care. 22
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4. Create a lifestyle change not just a habit. Going with the mindset of creating a lifestyle change will set you up for success. Taking on a growth mindset towards bettering yourself and creating the life you want for the long term is more effective than setting short seasonal habits for change. Write down those words “Lifestyle Change” on your goals list because vocabulary and the words you choose to use is important. Its perspective changing at its core and it’s what will help create a more effective execution of growth.
5. Prioritize what lights up your soul. Change starts with you and emulates outwards. When you prioritize the things that light you up inside and bring a sparkle to your eye when you talk about it, that’s when you know you are living your best life. When you prioritize the things that make you feel good, you are
prioritizing happiness. Energy is contagious and that energy will inspire others around you on their journey. To be living a life of full alignment with yourself is to live a life that is purposeful, meaningful and awe-inspiring. Find comfort in the discomfort of transition, as you do some self-reflection and gravitate towards a more meaningful routine. The transition of seasons allows for space and opportunity to renew your sense of self, your goals and your life to live your best life. Let this season be the season you allow for the leaves of the things that don’t serve you fall and the things that do serve you become more colourful.
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“Love is kind, respectful and fun.”- Aime Hutton
A FUN PHOTO SHOOT WE DID FOR CALGARY PRIDE WEEK SEPTEMBER 2021. PHOTO CREDIT: FIBONACCI PHOTO
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What is Love? BY AIME HUTTON, BA YOUTH DIVERSITY ADVISOR INCH BY INCH CHRONICLES
As I sit here on a warm fall day in September writing this article, I can see the blue sky and feel the warmth of the sun on my face through the window. These are two things that I love. I remind myself daily of the things that I love or make me happy. It was only till very recently that I thought I would never be falling in love with a person who I would want to be intimate with. Up until July 2021 I had been single for 14 years. And I had only dated men. Even as young woman I dated boys, one who was actually abusive, controlling, and stalked me. Yet everything changed when I accepted and embraced my sexuality as being female who is attracted to women, and women only. I started putting myself out there on dating sites. Posting on Plenty of Fish for example that I am a woman seeking a relationship with a woman. Lots of talking happened until I finally met someone who seemed like a real person to start with. Not some catfishing scammer. I suggested first to meet in person, at a new restaurant that does breakfast sandwiches etc. Unfortunately, she had vehicle problems, so we were not able to meet. She then suggested meeting at an arcade game place in the city. I almost cancelled. I was so nervous meeting her
in person. Remember I had not dated a woman ever and had not dated in general in the past 14 years. Even though I was nervous I had fun. The weather held and we met at the arcade. It was fun playing the video games and getting to know her. In the arcade there is a resturant. We each like pizza so that was easy to order. As we were eating, she looked at me and said, ‘you are cute’. I felt my cheeks and ears get really red. I didn’t know what to say. I stammered out a ‘thanks. She asked me if we could see each other again. The mind games started in my head. Could I see her again? I wanted too, and I was nervous too all at the same time. Could I date her? Might this be a potential girl friend? What if it doesn’t work out? What if things happen and I get hurt? I had to calm all those feelings and questions fast. I smiled back at her and said “yes, I would like that.’ We went on another date, and then a third. On the third date we went out to the mountains to take pictures of the rivers and scenery etc. It was a fun day. At one point I had to use the washroom. Luckily, we found an outhouse that was open, and I hopped in to use it. When I came out of outhouse and into her truck, she handed me a small rock. On it were the words: “Will you be my girlfriend?”. I again got all flustered, felt my face, and ears go red. I paused, calmed all the chatter and mind games going on in my head again, took a breath looked back at her smiling and said yes! She was happy that I said yes. She was a little worried she told me after as I paused for a few seconds. It has been a great adventure being in this beautiful relationship. We have fun together, we laugh a lot too. She knows my history of being in an abusive relationship. She also knows this is the first time I’ve dated a woman. My girlfriend has said that I make her happy, she also said she hopes that feel safe with her. And I do. I feel so safe. What is love? Love is feeling supported by my girlfriend. Sharing fun adventures together. Love is cheering madly for each other. Love is kind, respectful and fun.
THE ROCK THAT TARA WROTE ON JULY 2021
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B.Y.O.B
Bring your own bott le… to our refill station! Reduce. Reuse. Refill. Change is up to each of us.
Simple changes can have a big impact on our world. From reducing waste to being mindful of where our products come from and where they end up are great places to start! Just begin with one small change and you’ll be surprised by just how simple sometimes it is.
Refillable Products Shampoo & Conditioner Body Wash Hand Soap Skin Cream Laundry Soap Dish Soap All Purpose Cleaner Face Cream Diaper Cream And more
GENERATION GREEN & ACORN Cafe | Unit #100-433 Main Street | Winnipeg, MB | R3B 1B3
Everyt hing’s Vegan! Acorn Café is an a all vegan café located inside Generation Green in Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District. Our menu contains no animal by products and is focused around living a healthy lifestyle.
Home to Vegan Fromagerie Vegan gourmet cheese offerings that are made in house by Vegan Fromagerie and offered for retail and wholesale purchase.
204-808-9848 | www.generationgreenwpg.com |
EATS & DRINKS
Autumn leaves and pumpkins please BY SHELBY WOOD PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78
That fall feelin’... when the days start to become shorter and there’s that distinct crisp chill in the air. Leaves are turning colour as we hear them rustling in the wind and start to even cover the ground around us. There’s a richness that sets in and makes us want to reach for that cozy sweater, a warm cup of just about anything and a meal that is a like hug when we eat it. It’s so interesting with cooler weather and change of seasons how what we tend to gravitate towards eating also does the same. I always know I am craving a good soup, but one that is hearty, filling and also doesn’t take me all day to make. This soup is one you can whip up in half an hour and packs so much flavour. Pair it with this delicious bread and it’s always a hit that will only leave you coming back for more. Hope you enjoy. xox Shelby
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Ginger Snap cookies 2 1/4 all purpose flour
Italian wedding soup, Shelby Style
2 tsp ground ginger
1 pkg Johnsonville hot or mild Italian sausage
1 tsp baking soda
2 onions, chopped fine 3 carrots, chopped into ½’ pieces 3 celery, chopped into ½’pieces Half bag of Spinach/kale mix 1 tsp basil 1 tsp thyme 1 tsp pepper 1 tsp minced garlic 2 cartons of vegetable soup broth Half bag of Cheese stuffed tortellini
Directions
1/2 tsp ground cloves 1/2 tsp nutmeg 1/4 tsp salt 3/4 cup margarine 1 cup white sugar 1 egg 1 tbsp water 1/4 cup molasses
Directions • Preheat oven to 350. • In a medium bowl, Sift together your dry ingredients. • In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add celery and carrots to soup pot with vegetable broth, plus 1 cup water.
• Beat in egg.
• Add in spices and garlic.
• Gradually stir in dry mix.
• Bring to a boil. • Take sausage out of casings, crumble into small chunks. • Add sausage and onions to a pan, sauté. • Once onions are tender and meat is cooked, add mixture to broth. • Reduce heat to a low simmer.
• Stir in water and molasses. • Once fully combine, roll into 1” balls. • Add white sugar to a plate and roll balls in white sugar to lightly coat. • Place on cookie sheet and use a fork to flatten slightly. • Bake 8-10 minutes. Cool. • Add optional Icing.
• Chop spinach & kale, add to soup.
Icing:
• Simmer for 25 minutes.
1/2 cup Cream cheese
• Add Tortellini pasta, simmer for 7 minutes.
1.5 cups Icing sugar 1/4 cup Whipping cream 2 tsp Rum extract Combine with hand mixer.
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Onion & Garlic pull apart bread Dough recipe: 1 1/2 tsp yeast 2 cups flour 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup oil 1/2 tsp salt 2/3 cup warm water
Mixture: 1 medium onion, dices 1 cup margarine 2 tbsp minced garlic Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions Directions for are for a Bread maker on the dough setting. If you don’t have one, it can me mixed in a bowl, making sure the ingredients are all combined. Kneed for a couple minutes, then let rise for approximately 1 hour like the dough setting would be. And when in the tins let rise until puffy approx 2 hours.
Makes 2 loaf tins
• 1st rise – Place the dough in a lightly greased large bowl, turning it to coat all sides in oil. • Cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow to rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours, or until double in size. • When the 1st rise is complete, grease 2 baking loaf pans (approximately 8 x 4). • Melt ½ cup margarine in a frying pan, then add the diced onions, salt and pepper. Cook until the onions are soft. Turn off heat, then add remaining ½ cup margarine and minced garlic. • Lightly coat the baking pans with the mixture. • Remove dough from bowl, punch down to release the air. • Shape into 16-18 equal sized balls, roll each ball into margarine mixture and place in prepared baking pan. Drizzle left over mixture over dough balls. • Cover rolls and allow to rise until puffy, about 1 hour. • Place baking pans in 370°F pre-heated oven on the lower rack. It’s best to bake the rolls towards the bottom of the oven so the tops don’t burn. • Bake for 15 minutes.
• Whisk together warm water and yeast. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. • Add in flour, sugar, oil and salt to water and yeast mix. 30
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• Flip buns over on a plate (so that the bottoms are now on the top) and serve warm.
Mocha latte: 1 cup coffee 1/2 cup half and half cream 2 tbsp coco powder 2 tbsp corn syrup or maple syrup
Directions • In a saucepan, add corn syrup and coco powder. • Let come together and add your coffee and cream. • Bring to a light boil and take off heat. • Serve with some whipping cream and cocoa to top. Add a shot a Kaluha for an extra bit of flavour.
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THE ART OF SOUP Local Cookbooks that Give Back to Our Community
Notorious for being the simplest, most economical, and most comforting meal, a bowl of soup has historically been a universal favourite. The best soup recipes are often family treasures passed down from generations, but they can also be created quite by accident. Whether you choose the most modest or most decadent fare, a dash of creativity and collaboration can be the magic ingredient. The Down to Earth: Homemade Soups in Handmade Vessels cookbook set is a collaborative project by Anthologie and the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s CRAFTED Show + Sale, featuring a collection of soup recipes that truly are a work of art. Winnipeggers proudly boast the richness and diversity of our creative community in which both food and art are staples. Down to Earth celebrates over forty creative collaborations by local chefs and ceramic artists that elevate the simple bowl of soup, from the kiln to the kitchen, with recipes anyone can make. Beautiful photographs spotlight tantalizing creations by local culinary favourites such as De Luca’s Catering, 529 Wellington Steakhouse, Greek Market, and East India Company, and incredible, one-of-a-kind ceramic works by artists such as Terry Hildebrand, Valerie Metcalfe, Alan Lacovetsky, and PJ Anderson. The Anthologie Project is a curated collection of local design, art, food, fashion and handmade wares that includes five volumes and two special cookbook issues. Sales proceeds support Harvest Manitoba, Canadian Mental Health Association, Winnipeg Art Gallery, Winnipeg Humane Society, Habitat for Humanity, and more. Thanks to incredible reader support and funding to publish Anthologie from the Government of Canada, sales proceeds from these publications have generated over $30,000 in donations to local charities and community organizations to date. Anthologie is a truly unique publication in that it contains 100% local content and is created and printed right here in Manitoba. To purchase individual copies for $10 each, the complete set of the Anthologie collection of books, and Anthologie’s new Holiday Gift Boxes, visit anthologieproject.ca.
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BY ANNA DUMAS
We are in need of comfort, one that goes beyond sweaters, Netflix marathons and pumpkin spice everything. We need Wine. We are not quite ready for the full bodied Cabernet Savingnon or Tannat that we love on cold winter nights. We need something that gets through the changes of the shorter days and and weather changes. To help get you started on your fall wine shopping, see ahead for three options to look for. Suggestions from the palate of Mint’s very own wine aficionado Anna, here are some must haves for your fall evenings, or afternoon, we don’t judge.
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SANTA MARGHERITA PROSECCO
The perfect wine for thanksgiving, with elegant bubbles, a crisp finish and complexity of an Italian grape. If you like your stuffing as we do, with sage and apple, the fruit aromas will be complimented with a juicy apple and pear flavor. With a season celebrated by herbs this wine brings the strength not to be overwhelmed, but the mouthfeel to attract flavors in dishes you didn’t expect. A delightful change to the traditional wines with the must have of a true Italian prosecco. Refresh your palate with every sip while enjoying time together again!
BOTTEGA PINOT GRIGIO ROSE
GABBIANO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA
Italy is the theme this thanksgiving and nothing compares to the pinot grigios in Italy. To top it off a softly pressed long contact rosé completely unique to the rosé market. Rosé all day for us with a well known brand Bottega, they nailed it with this flavorful and unique wine. It’s fresh, it’s delicious and promotes tasty notes of tree fruit, citrus and a floral undertone. Perfect for thanksgiving dinner, being well structured, slightly dry and well balanced. It’s sure to compliment the turkey all the way to the pumpkin pie.
For the more adventurous and foodies of the group, we have a versatile and bold Chianti. Typically a medium bodied varietal, this Chianti comes through with a full mouthfeel of cherries, cedar and tobacco. Sure to please the bold Cabernet drinkers all the way to the pinot noir drinkers. This wine will compliment as well as stand out with any dish while pleasing the palate and appeal the masses. Taking on flavors of herbs, spices, fruit and buttery notes, it is sure to be the star of your thanksgiving table!
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Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition recently awarded our Manitoba Berry Gin with Excellence in Terroir and Gold Medal
Inspired by Old Tom Gins of the late 1800’s our gin is infused with Saskatoons from Manitoba’s Interlake area. Lovely rich texture, round soft and silky. Judges commented on its bright and peppery spice on the palate with such juicy authentic fruit flavor.
Artisan Distillers Canada (ADC) is a national organization focused on celebrating and highlighting artisan distilleries and spirits across Canada.
Patent 5 Manitoba Berry Gin (42% ABV)
Our Manitoba Berry Old Tom is created using a base of our London Dry Gin along with a blend of locally grown Saskatoon Berries and sustainably sourced hibiscus flowers. The result is a lightly candied mix of sweet fruit and spicy, floral flavours- perfect for mixing with our Blood Orange Cordial.
Patent 5 Distillery
108 Alexander Avenue | Winnipeg, MB | 204-808-8614 | info@patent5.ca www.patent5.ca | RETAIL: Monday — Saturday 10am — 5pm | BAR: Tuesday — Saturday 4 — 11pm
Sharing this drink from a traditional gourd is a sign of friendship and bonding.
Yerba Mate –
what’s in your cup? Extremely popular in South America, how did Yerba Mate end up in our tea cups? THE YERBA MATE CULTURE Yerba mate culture dates back many centuries when the Guarani people shared it in the rainforest. Traditionally, yerba mate is prepared in one gourd that is shared; this is part of the social and cultural experience of drinking yerba mate To this day, yerba mate is a symbol of friendship, sharing, and connection with oneself and others through a very unique ritual that consists of sharing a mate while having a good moment.
to deliver a smooth increase of energy, without the caffeine crash.
PREPARING YERBA MATE Yerba mate can have different ideal brewing temperatures and steeping times depending on if it is brewed with hot or ice-cold water.
TASTING YERBA MATE
Yerba mate can typically be infused multiple times. Each infusion reveals more layers of the flavor of the herb. Hot water is the most efficient way to extract the plant’s nutrients, and the ice-cold water method is very refreshing!
Yerba mate is often described as earthy, vegetal, herbaceous and bittersweet – similar to green tea. Imagine a fresh rainforest floor and you can likely picture the flavor of yerba mate. It is known
Yerba mate can be enjoyed on its own, or you can sweeten the brewed beverage with honey, agave or sugar, or even dilute it some with milk or cream, just like you would with a traditional tea.
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HOUSE & HOME
5 Essential tips for moving your houseplants indoors for the winter
After a summer of basking in the sun, it’s time for your leafy loves to come indoors for the winter. Before you bring them and plunk them on the floor, there is more to moving your plants indoors.
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Just like you gradually acclimate your plants bringing them outdoors in the spring, giving them extra care during their transition in the fall will help them cope better with the changes. Bringing plants inside for winter isn’t as easy as simply moving their pots from one place to another; there are a few precautions you need to take when acclimating plants from outdoors to indoors to prevent sending your plant into shock. Let’s look at how to prepare your plants for their winter vacation indoors.
1 – GIVE THEM TIME TO ADJUST Slowly acclimate your plants to lower light levels by putting them in a shaded spot for a couple of weeks before moving them inside. If your plants have gotten a little overgrown, now is a great time to trim them back a little and remove any dead leaves so you can keep the mess outside.
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2 - KEEP AN EYE ON THE TEMPERATURE While our fall days are warm and the evening temperatures dip, it’s a little trickier to figure out the best time to bring them in full time. It depends on the nighttime temperature, as you want to make sure to move them inside before the night temperature start to dip below 8-10°C. Any colder and you’re likely to see damage, especially on tender leaves and stem tips.
3 . GET RID OF PESTS Before you transition your houseplants indoors, inspect them for signs of pests. When troublemakers, such as mealy bugs, enter a warm, protected indoor environment, they multiply rapidly and can quickly
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devour your indoor garden. Check them carefully for pest problems, make sure to turn over leaves to check the undersides and look closely along the stems. Even if you don’t spot any bugs, wash off your plants with an insecticide spray just in case.
4. CUT BACK ON WATER AND FERTILIZER Once your plants are back inside, they won’t need as much water as they did during the hot summer months. While they don’t go completely dormant, many houseplants naturally slow their growth during the colder months. This means they don’t need as much fertilizer either as they did during the warm growing season. Instead, hold the nutrients until spring and keep your plants watered just enough so they don’t dry out completely.
If you plan to place your plants next to a window, take the time to clean any nearby windows to allow the maximum amount of light to get through.
5. PROVIDE LIGHT AND HUMIDITY If you plan to place your plants next to a window, take the time to clean any nearby windows to allow the maximum amount of light to get through. To avoid sunburn on leaves, place plants a couple feet away from the windows, rather than right next to them. A good rule of thumb is, a plant that likes full sun will prefer a south-facing window, while plants that prefer partial sun may be happier in a east- or west-facing window. North-facing windows provide the lowest light and are usually not suitable lighting on their own.
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Quick and clever Halloween Centre piece EVERY SEASON NEEDS A FAB TABLESCAPE! Traditional orange-and-black decorations are always festive, but opting for a more elevated look is just as appealing.
Let’s get started Making a simple centerpiece can be easy, fun, and stylish. Here’s how we created this arrangement. YOU WILL NEED • • • • • • 42
A Pumpkin Floral foam Floral scissors Knife Flowers of your choice Plastic, enough to cover the floral foam
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SELECT YOUR FLOWERS. For focal flowers, we used a pretty fall colored Chrysanthemum, that adds a pop of color and gorgeous orange roses to fall in line with the autumn colors. For texture, greenery and fillers, we added Eastern Red Cedar.
PREPARE YOUR PUMPKIN. First soak your floral foam in water and flower food. While this is soaking, cut the top off of your pumpkin and clean out the inside. Line the hallowed out pumpkin with plastic. Then cut down the foam to fit in the pumpkin.
BUILD YOUR GREENERY BASE. Add greenery around the outer edges of the pumpkin. Don’t worry about making a perfect shape. You will be able to perfect the shape once you begin to add the focal flowers. The greenery will play a large part in covering the floral foam so make sure you are really filling the entire outside with greens.
ADD YOUR FOCAL FLOWERS. Start inserting the large focal Chrysanthemums into the foam. Make sure to start making your rounded shape with the focal flowers, this way when you start adding your roses and fillers you will already have made a guideline for yourself to follow. Add your secondary and filler flowers. Add your smaller flower and fillers and continue to create your desired arrangement shape. You are finished when you are happy with the shape and balance of flowers in the arrangement. Arrangements with floral foam will last just as long as any flower arrangement in water. Floral foam evenly distributes water to the flowers for several days, and they can be watered to extend the life of the arrangement
EXTRA INFO: Chrysanthemum x morifolium is an herbaceous perennial which adds a pop of color to your arrangement.
Adding the blue-green colors from the Eastern Red Cedar with pops of color add a balance between the colors of the chosen flowers. Deep and illustrious, Dark Orange is a warm and delightful color that creates a joyous, high-spirited atmosphere perfect for exciting and varied styles. Use Dark Orange flowers for looks with plenty of vibrancy, enthusiasm, and an unforgettable amount of bright optimism.
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Here’s Why Your Small Business Needs a Digital Marketing Agency BY THE MINT MARKETING EXPERIENCE
Self-promotion can be rather exhausting, and sometimes, a lot of effort can still yield little to nothing. The best course of action is really to just get a digital marketing agency. When those services are availed of, there’s a world of relief that goes with it. It will also take a lot of stress off your shoulders. A reputable agency for digital marketing in Manitoba will come with a team that is experienced enough to centralize all marketing needs online. That allows you to focus on your business growth as well as running it in general. There are a number of reasons to hire a digital marketing agency. Being able to save on funding is another one. 44
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What makes getting a digital marketing agency beneficial? There are a number of B2B services that offer various marketing services. Depending on the agency you work with, it’s likely that there’s an area or two of marketing they specialize in. That said, there are certainly agencies out there that are able to take on any marketing task. These services can include, but are not limited to: •
Content creation
•
Email marketing
A DIGITAL MARKETING AGENCY IS A GREAT ASSET TO ANY BUSINESS.
•
Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising
•
Building the loyalty of customers
•
Social media marketing
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More traffic being driven to a website
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Website design and development
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Sales being increased
There are several reasons for hiring a digital marketing agency. Of course, a vital one is meeting previously set goals. Digital marketing agencies are adept at helping for the following goals to be met: •
Engaging customers
•
Building on the awareness of a brand
What are the key benefits of hiring a digital marketing agency? •
Access To Resources
When you hire a digital marketing agency, you also get access to their resources. These are things that you might not be able to afford initially as a start-up, but the digital
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ad space. However, when you do it through a digital marketing agency, the ads reach more possible clients and they get enhanced to go from good to great. •
marketing agency you hire will be able to access/provide. This can include the likes of: •
Automation tools
•
Competitor intelligence trackers
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Content research tools
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Education checkers
•
Grammar/plagiarism checkers
•
SEO optimizers
Those resources come with one of two major expenses: one-time big-time fees, or monthly subscription fees. Sure, you can sign up for those things yourself. However, it will take time to find which ones suit your needs and to familiarize yourself using them. It may also add up to a bigger cost in the long run. •
More Customers
Essentially, advertising through pay-per-click (PPC) on Instagram, Facebook, and similar platforms is paid
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Online Expansion of Business
One of the biggest takeaways of entrepreneurs from COVID-19 is that not going digital spells trouble. Businesses that don’t have a digital arm will either get left behind entirely or face serious struggles. A number of businesses were largely offline before the pandemic came about. If you’re one of them, it means you’re going to have to invest quite a bit upfront. This can include a website being built and launched, social media ads being managed, having newsletters drafted and sent to subscribers, and more.
Conclusion A digital marketing agency is a great asset to any business. With the pandemic moving everyone-even those previously offline to the digital space, it’s more crucial than ever. Benefits include online expansion of business, access to resources, and more customers. Reach out to The Mint Marketing Experience Inc. today to get a boost on your digital marketing! We are a print and digital advertising agency that expertly creates custom solutions for our clients. The Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 204-721-1296 Brandon and area 204-698-2424 Winnipeg info@mintmarketingexperience.ca
COVER FEATURE
“Celebrating another woman's triumphs or success will never take away from your shine or glory. If anything, it'll add to it and create more light.” - Alexandra Elle
A woman alone has power and collectively they have impact and influence. Rasing each other up and living in the power of collaboration is how we will change the world and have fun along t h e w a y. B u i l d i n g m e a n i n g f u l re l a t i o n s h i p s i s n o t o n l y i m p o r t a n t fo r o u r c a re e r s , b u t a l s o o u r m e n t a l w e l l - b e i n g . We ’ re b e t t e r t o g e t h e r. The Mint Experience Winnipeg
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Cover Feature | Generation Green
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Helping you live better, naturally! “from tiny acorns grow mighty oaks” BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
The acorn is the seed of the mighty oak tree and it shows us how incredible things often come from humble beginnings. As the symbol of strength, prosperity and growth, the acorn holds a special and significant meaning to Sherry Sobey, Founder and CEO of Generation Green and Acorn Café. “The idea for my business came during a time I was healing from a pretty dismal diagnosis,” explains Sobey. “It was at this time I made health and wellness my top priority and began to research and experiment with different products and natural remedies. Three years later, I wanted to share what I learned with others and opened Generation Green.”
“I am so proud of the atmosphere and culture we’ve created with Generation Green. We genuinely want to make a difference and value every person who walks through our doors,” Sobey says. “The gratitude I feel towards my customers, employees, business partners and journey is overwhelming sometimes. After nine years in business, I still wake up every day excited to do something I love.” Grab a coffee from Acorn Café and browse the local, all-natural selection at Unit 100-433 Main Street.
Generation Green began as a small kiosk situated in The Forks Market. As business began to take root and bloom, Sobey realized she was going to need a bigger retail operation. “We source local first and have built relationships with over 100 local suppliers,” Sobey says. “Generation Green is also home to Winnipeg’s first all-vegan café. Acorn Café is located within our retail store and exclusively offers cheeses from Vegan Fromagerie, the best vegan cheesemaker in Winnipeg!” Now located in the heart of the Exchange District, Generation Green offers natural living alternatives for home and body. Adhering to a strict guideline for ethical sourcing, serious homework comes before putting any product on their shelves. From cosmetics and housewares to natural remedies and maternity products, the little green shop is a supporter of all things local.
Generation Green & Acorn Cafe In The Exchange Sherry Sobey Founder/CEO Unit 100-433 Main Street (204) 808-9848 generationgreenwpg@gmail.com
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Cover Feature | WH Strategic Drive Inc.
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Embrace, inspire and lead Wendy Hofford, President, WH Strategic Drive provides leadership for leaders. BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
If you want to grow your business, the most powerful thing you can do is invest in yourself and your employees. However, creating a better workplace, shaping stronger leaders and engaging staff often requires the expertise of a leadership consultant like WH Strategic Drive. “As a business advisor and people management professional, I partner with organizations on a consultant level to develop strategies and training for better leaders, improved morale and engaged employees,” says Wendy Hofford, President, WH Strategic Drive. “Where there’s conflict, miscommunication or lack of teamwork, I can help.” From small business breakrooms to large corporate boardrooms, Hofford is passionate about helping people discover their potential. Her expertise lies in teaching management teams tools and tactics to become effective leaders.
WH Strategic Drive offers workshops, training and personalized coaching to improve workplaces and leadership teams. Hofford’s ultimate goal is to expand her services, build a community and continue to help organizations create thriving, positive cultures. “I am successful when my clients are successful,” Hofford says. “When a client is finding growth personally and professionally from the tools, tactics and strategies they’ve learned from me – that’s why I love what I do.” Effective leaders make all the difference in the workplace. Take the first step to your full potential. Contact Wendy Hofford at wendy@wendyhofford.com.
“I believe anyone can change the course of their life or their business,” Hofford says. “How you lead your employees is the key to reaching your potential as an organization.” Hofford understands there is no cookie-cutter approach to every situation. Her workshops and training (which are offered virtually and in-person) are customized to meet the needs of your business. “I understand that being a leader isn’t easy. I teach my clients the first steps to gaining control of their team, department or organization,” Hofford says. “And once you learn how to manage up or out, leading others gets easier.”
WH Strategic Drive Inc. Wendy Hofford, President (204) 981-3967 wendy@wendyhofford.com www.wendyhofford.com
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Cover Feature | Harlow Events
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Making the dream work Constance Kusie, Owner & Lead Planner of Harlow Events is making dreams a reality BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
The wedding industry took a hard hit in 2020. Due to health orders surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many couples made the difficult decision to postpone their weddings or cancel entirely. For wedding planners or event coordinators, it was an especially challenging time for business. “My first year was not the year I was hoping for - I was immediately launched into survival mode,” Constance Kusie, Owner and Lead Planner, Harlow Events explains. “I started my company with the mission to provide a planning experience that is honest, unique and brings a wedding day back to what it should be – a day for you.” Thanks to her innovation, resilience and creativity, Kusie has made dreams come true for couples and the company.
“I put my heart into everything I do and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Once I set my mind to something it’s hard to stop me no matter what the roadblocks are. I put my heart into everything I do and I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Learn more about Harlow Events and check out Connie’s gorgeous portfolio at harlowevents.ca.
“What makes any business unique is the person behind it,” Kusie says. “I connect with people on a different level and become emotionally invested in the experience I’m creating for clients. I couldn’t imagine not doing what I do. I am so grateful I took that leap of faith and started my own business.” While Kusie’s raw talent and ability to authentically connect with clients are the foundation of her success, she also credits the power of a good support system and believing in your dreams. “While I hope the next few years are a return to normal, I want to one day be published in a prestigious bridal magazine and grow my clientele outside of the province,” Kusie says. “I’m a driven dreamer!
Harlow Events Constance Kusie 941 26th St, Gimli, MB 204-995-2742 connie@harlowevents.ca www.harlowevents.ca
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Cover Feature | Plant Lab Botanical Design
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Water, light and lots of love How Plant Lab Botanical Design bloomed into business BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
Krystle Pagkalinawan, Owner, Plant Lab Botanical Design has dedicated a lot of time energy to growing her green thumb. Pagkalinawan herself is a testament to the healing power of plants. Long before she opened the doors to her own business, she was physically and mentally burnt out from her many years working in retail management.
their lifestyle, style their spaces with those plants and how to properly care their plants so they may thrive.”
“During that time I was gifted a plant from a family member, which I immediately killed,” Pagkalinawan recalls. “I took it as a challenge and bought myself a new one. I did a bunch of reading and research and figured out how to keep my new plant alive and happy. This, of course, led to more plants and I noticed how caring for plants and sharing my knowledge with others made me feel.”
“As a woman of colour who is a business owner, I never saw people like me represented in the business community,” Pagkalinawan says. “Representation matters and I hope that other women and women of colour see and know that they can be their own boss. If I can be that to even one person, I would feel so blessed.”
Pagkalinawan found a new purpose. She wanted provide support to people struggling with stress and their mental health by teaching them how to incorporate caring for plants into their daily lives.
While Plant Lab Botanical Design is indeed a shop where you can find and buy plants, Pagkalinawan also offers plant design services, coaching, rentals, gift packages and private shopping parties.
Bring a little peace, calm and green into your life. Reach out to Krystle at info@plantlab.design.
“I took the leap in March of 2020 and left my full-time job to open my own plant shop,” Pagkalinawan says. “I want to help others find plants that are right for
“Representation matters and I hope that other women and women of colour see and know that they can be their own boss.”
Plant Lab Botanical Design Krystle Pagkalinawan, Owner Unit B - 68 Albert Street info@plantlab.design www.plantlab.design
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Cover Feature | Stephanie Bockstael Design
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Turning dreams into reality How Stephanie Bockstael, Owner & Designer is making her mark, one space at a time BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
Stephanie Bockstael Design is an interior design service that specializes in creating comfortable, functional and beautiful spaces. With a portfolio of diverse projects and a style that leans into nature, clean lines and lots of natural light, Stephanie Bockstael, Owner and Designer, transforms interior spaces into rooms her clients fall in love with. “When I was first starting out in the industry, friends and family were frequently asking for my guidance in redesigning their kitchen, updating bathrooms or creating a new basement floor plan,” says Bockstael. “I began getting referrals and noticed that there were gaps in the design service options available to homeowners looking for assistance with their renovation projects”
and requests for her design services continued, she took the leap to start her own business, rebranding and restructuring to focus solely on residential interior design. “It has been inspiring operating a business while surrounded by so many like-minded, dedicated and innovative female entrepreneurs,” Bockstael says. “This is an amazing moment in time to be apart of a world where woman are empowering woman, encouraging each other to reach our goals and to set even bigger ones.” Learn more about Stephanie and view her portfolio at stephaniebockstaeldesign.com
Bockstael wanted to build an approachable business that makes hiring a designer for residential projects easy. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to transform their home into a space they love, no matter the size, scope or budget,” explains Bockstael. “Developing a strong designer/client relationship allows for a seamless, enjoyable design process. The result is a beautiful space that suits the functional needs, design requirements and aesthetic desires of each client.” Up until March of 2020, Bockstael was working mainly for another interior designer while taking on only a few of her own clients. With the temporary closure of daycares across the city she put her career on hold to care for her two young children. Bockstael decided to take the time to re-evaluate. As the inquiries
Stephanie Bockstael Design Stephanie Bockstael B.Env.D. (204) 997-4498 stephanie@stephaniebockstaeldesign.com www.stephaniebockstaeldesign.com
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Cover Feature | Equip Wellness Collective
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The Mint Experience Winnipeg
Wellness is a healthy business Focusing on the needs of the customer has kept Equip Wellness Collective thriving. BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
Vanessa Stiles, Owner, Equip Wellness Collective is well-versed in all things health and wellness. With a background in aromatherapy and natural skincare formulation, Stiles is passionate about providing exceptional service to her clientele and building longlasting relationships with customers and vendors. “I took over Equip Wellness Collective in 2018 with the mission to grow the business and build a lifestyle brand,” explains Stiles. “While we do offer the essentials for wellness clinics and independent practitioners, my main focus has been curating products that support an individual’s holistic wellness journey and building a community of people who are interested in natural and low tox living.”
Stiles’ drive, determination and focus has most certainly paid off. In fact, she is almost at the finish line of a business name change and rebrand. Soon, Equip Wellness Collective will be moving to a new location on St. James Street and launching a new website. “Our shop is a place for discovery, learning, and support,” Stiles says. “It is the best feeling in the world to receive positive reviews, thanks and compliments from customers who are genuinely appreciative of our products and service.” Equip Wellness Collective is the place to find expertise on clean products, gifts and supplies. Learn more about them at equipmassage.com.
That focus has been unwavering in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. After the first lockdown, Stiles adapted quickly and made herself available to communicate with returning and new clients across multiple platforms.
“Our shop is a place for discovery, learning, and support.” “I haven’t been operating within strict business hours. Instead, I do my best to respond to customer inquiries as quickly as possible and accommodate appointments,” Stiles says. “We offer local delivery within Winnipeg on all orders, ship across Canada and have local pickup at our retail shop location.”
Equip Wellness Collective Vanessa Stiles 204-417-7466 info@equipmassage.com www.equipmassage.com
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Cover Feature | Little Tribe Consulting
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The Mint Experience Winnipeg
A strategy for success Find the support to connect and grow your business with Little Tribe Consulting BY LISA CRESS PHOTO BY STUDIO 78
Starting your own business can be overwhelming. From business plans to market research, there’s a lot to do and think about. If you are an aspiring entrepreneur, Little Tribe Consulting is a professional service ready to help you get up and running to your career dreams and business goals.
“I wanted to use my experience and expertise to help other female entrepreneurs from visible minority communities - black women particularly - to achieve their goals.”
their goals,” Bado explains. “As a Francophone Black woman, first generation immigrant and single parent, I want to embody the change I want to see. I am very excited to see where the journey will lead.” Not just for aspiring entrepreneurs - Little Tribe Consulting sticks with their clients every step of their career journey. “If someone is looking to walk away from entrepreneurial life, we can help them discover what professional opportunities are waiting,” Bado says. “Watching our clients succeed is the ultimate success for us.” Learn more about Little Tribe Consulting and take your first steps to entrepreneurship by emailing Carine at info@littletribeco.ca.
“Little Tribe Consulting specializes in supporting visible minority entrepreneurs and individuals within the business community,” says Carine Bado, CEO and Founder, Little Tribe Consulting. “Some of the barriers our clients face may be systemic. We support and tailor every business plan and are committed to assist your business before the doors open and after the first sale.” Bado has over eight years of experience in accounting and financial planning within the entrepreneurship industry. She started Little Tribe Consulting in September of 2020. The business consulting firm offers full services in both official languages. “I wanted to use my experience and expertise to help other female entrepreneurs from visible minority communities - black women particularly - to achieve
Little Tribe Consulting Carine Bado, CEO and Founder 16-1330 Molson Street, Winnipeg 204-669-7704 info@littletribeco.ca www.littletribeco.wordpress.com MBlittletribeco | littletribe_co
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LOCAL CULTURE
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The Mint Experience Winnipeg
A financial plan for
“back to school” BY MICHAEL VAN LIEROP, PRESIDENT & CEO, NEW OUTLOOK WEALTH INC.
For most Canadian families, the back-to-school period brings a variety of emotions – stress about the cost of supplies, new clothes and other school-related paraphernalia – with muted joy that the kids are going to be returning to some form of “normal” and a routine. The financial implications are actually quite significant for many, however, and tend to be ignored by financial planners. In fact, with the exception of the discretionary spending of Christmas and birthdays, the back-to-school period is likely one of the most costly for the vast majority of Canadian families. If we add in the sudden influx of programming and extracurricular activities and their associated costs, most of which require payment in September and October, the family budget can get blown to smithereens and quickly!
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On average, Canadian parents spend over $500 per child on their back-toschool needs. Obviously, this multiplies fast with two or three children.
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The Mint Experience Winnipeg
The reality is most folks do not budget well for this and rely on credit cards to absorb this sudden uptick in expenditures. Is this avoidable? Of course it is – by merely allocating a portion of monthly savings to this annual ritual of spending, you could be better prepared. But what if that isn’t possible or the summer vacation costs more than it should have? Surely, that never happens! Truthfully, even the best budgeted families usually have to rely on some consumer borrowing – the trick is to minimize this and to ensure those ridiculous credit card interest rates don’t haunt you well into the Christmas season or beyond.
How best to do this? Overall, if you don’t have a family budget that runs the course of an entire year, or if you do and it neglects to cover the cost of backto-school, you need to get this sorted out with your financial planner. If your advisor has not provided advice around solving this issue, you should insist on it. You’re paying for their services whether you realize it or not (through your investment management fees) and should not be shy in asking for their help. This is true no matter which investment firm, bank or credit union your advisor is with.
On average, Canadian parents spend over $500 per child on their back-to-school needs. Obviously, this multiplies fast with two or three children. Families who are illprepared for a sudden expenditure of $1000-1500 likely cannot budget properly for school either, so seeking financial planning advice around mitigating the costs of education, sports, cultural activities is a wise investment of time – an investment that can prove invaluable as kids grow older.
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Dream, grow and prosper. Made to Grow Project offers entrepreneurial women community, connection and confidence. BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY LYNETTE PHOTOGRAPHER
The landscape of entrepreneurship is changing. While the number of female-owned businesses is on the rise, women still experience a crushing societal pressure to perfectly balance their professional ambitions with family life. A support system is critical – but one of the greatest challenges women in business face is finding that support and building a network of relevant connections, applicable expertise and supportive relationships. It is this need for community that inspired business owners Nancy Dutiaume and Sherry Sobey to start the Made to Grow Project.
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The Mint Experience Winnipeg
NANCY DUTIAUME
SHERRY SOBEY
“The Made to Grow Project is about building relationships, networking and getting the support we found has been missing for small, femaleled businesses and startups,” Nancy Dutiaume, Co-Founder of Made to Grow explains. “We are a community of entrepreneurial women who fiercely support each other’s professional ambitions and celebrate each other’s success.” As an entrepreneur, there are countless existing resources that promise to help you grow your business. While the Made to Grow Project offers its members mentorships, workshops, meetups and an annual event, the priceless element of the project is the collaborative nature of its community members. “This is a community you can really lean on and have as your soundboard, which is really something that sets us apart,” Sherry Sobey, Co-Founder of Made to Grow says. “The Made to Grow membership is comprised of peers and is a range of expertise, experience and perspectives. This is a community of business owners who understand your hurdles and struggles. We can and will collectively help you find solutions to whatever storm you’re weathering.” “The difference is that we don’t just tell you where to go or what to do. We’re actually here to be a part of your community and your journey as a business owner,” Dutiaume adds. The Made to Grow Project launched in March of 2019. In that short time (and in the face of a global pandemic), Dutiaume and Sobey have witnessed the membership thrive. “We’ve had members tell us that the relationships they formed through the Made to Grow Project are what has gotten them through the pandemic,” Sobey says. “And that gives us goosebumps! This has grown to be bigger than we could have imagined.” Members of the Made to Grow Project have an opportunity to fully engage with a community of fellow businesswomen online and in-person. Membership includes marketing opportunities, complimentary meet up invites, member-to-member incentives and a community of support. “We also have MeetUp Mondays,” Sobey says. “We use the time to kick off our week and discuss things like how our businesses are handling the most current public health orders, how we keep thriving through lockdowns and the importance of a positive mindset.”
“This is our passion project,” Dutiaume says. “We do all that we can to spread the word about your business and offer a safe space to share ideas and connect with other women in the small business community.” Learn more about this amazing community of businesswomen at madetogrow.ca. Made To Grow www.madetogrow.ca
When you learn, teach. When you get, give. M A D E TO G R OW is a community of entrepreneurial women that offers support, information and direction, in an effort to make the process of entrepreneurial life, an easier one. We connect entrepreneurs with ideal mentors and motivators, that will help grow businesses with confidence and financial success. We also believe in the power of collaboration and connection and this is the foundation of what M A D E TO G R OW is building on.
She believed she could, so she did.
Made To Grow www.madetogrow.ca
