19 minute read
Local Culture
Helping you live better, naturally!
“from tiny acorns grow mighty oaks”
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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 signifi cant 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 prett y dismal diagnosis,” explains Sobey. “It was at this time I made health and wellness my top priority and began to research and experiment with diff erent products and natural remedies. Three years later, I wanted to share what I learned with others and opened Generation Green.” 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 fi rst and have built relationships with over 100 local suppliers,” Sobey says. “Generation Green is also home to Winnipeg’s fi rst all-vegan café. Acorn Café is located within our retail store and exclusively off ers cheeses from Vegan Fromagerie, the best vegan cheesemaker in Winnipeg!” Now located in the heart of the Exchange District, Generation Green off ers natural living alternatives for home and body. Adhering to a strict guideline for ethical sourcing, serious homework comes before putt ing any product on their shelves. From cosmetics and housewares to natural remedies and maternity products, the litt le green shop is a supporter of all things local. “I am so proud of the atmosphere and culture we’ve created with Generation Green. We genuinely want to make a diff erence 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 coff ee from Acorn Café and browse the local, all-natural selection at Unit 100-433 Main Street.
Generation Green & Acorn Cafe In The Exchange Sherry Sobey Founder/CEO Unit 100-433 Main Street (204) 808-9848 generationgreenwpg@gmail.com
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 bett er 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 bett er leaders, improved morale and engaged employees,” says Wendy Hoff ord, President, WH Strategic Drive. “Where there’s confl ict, miscommunication or lack of teamwork, I can help.” From small business breakrooms to large corporate boardrooms, Hoff ord is passionate about helping people discover their potential. Her expertise lies in teaching management teams tools and tactics to become eff ective leaders. “I believe anyone can change the course of their life or their business,” Hoff ord says. “How you lead your employees is the key to reaching your potential as an organization.” Hoff ord understands there is no cookie-cutt er approach to every situation. Her workshops and training (which are off ered 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 fi rst steps to gaining control of their team, department or organization,” Hoff ord says. “And once you learn how to manage up or out, leading others gets easier.” WH Strategic Drive off ers workshops, training and personalized coaching to improve workplaces and leadership teams. Hoff ord’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,” Hoff ord says. “When a client is fi nding growth personally and professionally from the tools, tactics and strategies they’ve learned from me – that’s why I love what I do.”
Eff ective leaders make all the diff erence in the workplace. Take the fi rst step to your full potential. Contact Wendy Hoff ord at wendy@wendyhoff ord.com.
WH Strategic Drive Inc. Wendy Hofford, President (204) 981-3967 wendy@wendyhofford.com www.wendyhofford.com
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 diffi cult decision to postpone their weddings or cancel entirely. For wedding planners or event coordinators, it was an especially challenging time for business.
“My fi rst 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. “What makes any business unique is the person behind it,” Kusie says. “I connect with people on a diff erent 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!
Once I set my mind to something it’s hard to stop me - no matt er 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.
Harlow Events Constance Kusie 941 26th St, Gimli, MB 204-995-2742 connie@harlowevents.ca www.harlowevents.ca
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.
“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 fi gured 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.”
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. “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 fi nd plants that are right for
their lifestyle, style their spaces with those plants and how to properly care their plants so they may thrive.” While Plant Lab Botanical Design is indeed a shop where you can fi nd and buy plants, Pagkalinawan also off ers plant design services, coaching, rentals, gift packages and private shopping parties. “As a woman of colour who is a business owner, I never saw people like me represented in the business community,” Pagkalinawan says. “Representation matt ers 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.” Bring a litt le peace, calm and green into your life. Reach out to Krystle at info@plantlab.design.
Plant Lab Botanical Design Krystle Pagkalinawan, Owner Unit B - 68 Albert Street info@plantlab.design www.plantlab.design
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 fi rst 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 fl oor plan,” says Bockstael. “I began gett ing referrals and noticed that there were gaps in the design service options available to homeowners looking for assistance with their renovation projects” 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 matt er 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 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
Stephanie Bockstael Design Stephanie Bockstael B.Env.D. (204) 997-4498 stephanie@stephaniebockstaeldesign.com www.stephaniebockstaeldesign.com
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 off er 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.”
That focus has been unwavering in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. After the fi rst lockdown, Stiles adapted quickly and made herself available to communicate with returning and new clients across multiple platforms.
“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 off er local delivery within Winnipeg on all orders, ship across Canada and have local pickup at our retail shop location.” Stiles’ drive, determination and focus has most certainly paid off . In fact, she is almost at the fi nish 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 fi nd expertise on clean products, gifts and supplies. Learn more about them at equipmassage.com.
Equip Wellness Collective Vanessa Stiles 204-417-7466 info@equipmassage.com www.equipmassage.com
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.
“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 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 Carine Bado, CEO and Founder 16-1330 Molson Street, Winnipeg 204-669-7704 info@littletribeco.ca www.littletribeco.wordpress.com
MBlittletribeco | littletribe_co
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!
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.
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.
“The Made to Grow Project is about building relationships, networking and gett ing the support relationships, networking and gett ing 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 fi ercely 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 off ers 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 experience and perspectives. This is a community of business owners who understand your hurdles and struggles. We can and will collectively help you fi nd solutions to whatever storm you’re weathering.” “The diff erence 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 gott en 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 off er 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.
MADE TO GROW is a community of entrepreneurial women that off ers support, information and direction, in an eff ort to make the process of entrepreneurial life, an easier one.
We connect entrepreneurs with ideal mentors and motivators, that will help grow businesses with confi dence and fi nancial success.
We also believe in the power of collaboration and connection and this is the foundation of what MADE TO GROW is building on.
She believed she could, so she did.
Made To Grow www.madetogrow.ca
