September 2018 | Vol. 12 | No. 02
TopChoiceMagazine.com | $4.99 CAN
PROFESSIONAL EVENTS START WITH Providing flawless audio visual experiences for Galas, Product Launches, Presentations, Concerts, Conferences & more!
10
TopChoiceMagazine.com | $4.99 CAN
September 2018 | Vol. 12 | No. 02
Dedicated to enhancing your
natural beauty PAG E
12
TopChoiceMagazine.com | $4.99 CAN
September 2018 | Vol. 12 | No. 02
FROM DREAMER TO ACHIEVER Meet Karen Dixon, Founder & CEO of Vixen® Spa Inc., and read her story of success.
14
September 2018 | Vol. 12 | No. 02
THE BEST CHOOSE CHESTNUT FLOORING
TopChoiceMagazine.com | $4.99 CAN
16
TopChoiceMagazine.com | $4.99 CAN
September 2018 | Vol. 12 | No. 02
ANTHONY NGUYEN & CAROL PHUNG Owners of Nails @ Anthony’s
Vaughan’s best…because they do it in style. PAGE 18
Presented By
Pure AV is a full service audio visual production company in Toronto that continuously focuses on providing great service and helping every client streamline their event’s execution. From Conferences and Trade Shows to full-blown AV Production, Pure AV has extensive knowledge in all areas of audio visual production and is ready to help make your event shine. pureav.ca
Associate Sponsors
Makes a Difference One Car at a time!
Davies Law Firm offers the highest standard of client care and family law services, so you can be sure you are getting the best possible legal representation. Their experienced and dedicated team is always available to help get you through your legal difficulties and family law matters. If you want peace of mind that your legal rights are protected, contact Tanya Davies – a legal representative who cares!
autorama.ca
daviesdivorcelaw.com
Tasios Orthodontics is a patientcentered orthodontic specialty office located in Vaughan that provides personalized and advanced orthodontic treatment. At Tasios Orthodontics, they make every effort to go above and beyond to create a memorable orthodontic experience for their patients and their families. Through orthodontic treatment techniques and individualized care, they efficiently create beautiful and confident smiles.
RCC Waterproofing is a 3rd generation family owned and operated business with employees who have been with the company for over 25 years. RCC has been a contributor to the development of waterproofing technology and has invented some of the most widely used waterproofing systems today. With RCC’s experience and knowledge, you can be confident that you are working with the best!
tasiosortho.com
rccwaterprooďŹ ng.com
Autorama is a multi-award winning used car dealership in Toronto with 250+ vehicles, housed in an all indoor showroom offering high quality vehicles at a competitive price point. With strong relationships with multiple lenders, Autorama can get you an approval with credit as is. Autorama
COVER FEATURES
NewDermaMed Cosmetic and Surgery Clinic
10
12
16
14 Vixen® Spa Inc.
4 Summer/Fall 2018
Chestnut Flooring
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
18 Nails @ Anthony's
SECTIONS TOP CHOICE MAGAZINE
24 Automotives
26 Education & Learning
36 B2B
Top Choice Magazine is dedicated to showcasing excellence. It features businesses, business professionals, entertainers, and media that are recognized with awards. Top Choice Magazine is produced by Top Choice Media Group Inc. The magazine is published bi-annually and is a reliable guide to the top products and services in your community! More than 100,000 copies are distributed throughout Top businesses and professionals in Canada, the magazine works like a promotional tool to the participants. Readership is estimated at more than 300,000 per issue.
ADVERTISING INQUIRERS Only award-winning, reputable or recognized businesses, entertainers, media providers, and business professionals are promoted in Top Choice Magazine.
40 Finance & Legal
62 Food & Drink
If you would like to advertise, call us at ( 905) 761-1980 or send an email to info@TopChoiceMagazine.com. Media kits are available in print and digital format.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE The content and photographs in this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction in any form, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of the publisher.
80 Health & Beauty
CONTACT US 160 Applewood Cres., Unit 23 Vaughan, ON L4K 4H2 Canada
112 Home Services
info@TopChoiceMagazine.com (905) 761-1980 topchoicemagazine.com
STAY CONNECTED facebook.com/TopChoiceMagazine twitter.com/TopChoiceMag
138 Specialty Services
6 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
instagram.com/TopChoiceMag
MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER PUBLISHER
David Silvestre MANAGING EDITOR
Monica Couto ART DIRECTOR
Michael Fillier ACCOUNTANT EXECUTIVE
ITA Accounting LAUGH IT OFF: David enjoying a moment with the team from NewDermaMed Spa (Story on page 12)
EDITORS
Nathan Neto Marco Luccisano Sabrina Cugliari SALES MANAGERS
Sonia Couto Veronica Da Ponte GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Alan Davood Bradlee Silvestre Michael Fillier PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sam Santos George Pimentel Maggie Habieda WRITERS
Nathan Neto Sabrina Cugliari Monica Couto David Silvestre Natalie Servello Dyvine Silvestre
8 Summer/Fall 2018
HELLO EVERYONE,
I trust this message will find you in good health and full of energy to celebrate life, as everyday unfolds before our eyes. This Magazine issue celebrates over 100 magazine covers published and if that is not reason enough to celebrate, then what is? Yes, our Top Choice Team truly believes that celebrating is life’s true fundamental right of passage. To celebrate everything that has happened, celebrate what is happening and celebrate what will happen – this powerful attitude – will awaken the "spirits" desired to let us remain on a positive energy frequency. We will continue to receive clear messages that transpire daily around us, and lead us to eternal achievement, regardless of what our goals may be! It has been proven, that when someone celebrates anything, it sends a positive vibration to everyone in proximity. Humans are naturally attracted to successful people, therefore, celebrating moments creates an awakening in others. This results in a greater attraction, as others also search to achieve their goals. That is what the Top Choice Magazine is all about. It is with great honor the magazine promotes, in various ways of celebration, those whom fight daily for their right to celebrate their achievements. The Top Choice Magazine is a by-product result of a yearly democratic survey conducted by Top Choice Awards, that searches for the most admired and trusted businesses in North American cities. In this year’s gala issue, we expose over one-hundred businesses that have successfully passed the toughest test there is in business; gaining their city’s trust! A test that greatly takes a business to a caliber like no other. What we learned during
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
this process is that regardless of the diversity in industries or cities, these businesses all achieve their goals by being persistent and adaptable to the new trends in selling. The Top Choice Award winners are individuals like any other, who continue to improve their businesses with transparency and honesty. Their goals are focused on client contentment and demand. Therefore, if you are looking for a specific product or service in your city, save your time and money by choosing a Top Choice Award Winner. If the options within these pages are not enough, we have more! Go to the Top Choice Awards website and have access to the entire list in your city. I will take this opportunity to thank my team, my family and all the Top Choice Award winners for making this dream a reality and further, for being a part of the past thirteen years! The cold truth is that, every successful story has one component that is 100% detrimental in determining their success – their Team. A team injected with willingness and determination can "move mountains" and reach goals. Investing in your team is my personal business tip for organic success! Looking forward to seeing 2019's cover features, as we continue to celebrate in the shared successes amongst our cities, we plan to add 100 more published covers within the next 3 years. Will your success story be featured? Be a part of the celebration. Top Regards,
David Silvestre, Publisher
FEATURE
Pure AV PROVIDING FLAWLESS AUDIO VISUAL EXPERIENCES FOR GALAS, PRODUCT LAUNCHES, PRESENTATIONS, CONCERTS, CONFERENCES & MORE! IN TODAY’S WORLD OF business, companies often find themselves requiring assistance with audio visual equipment to showcase their product at a trade show or to celebrate a company milestone with a gala. Professional expertise and the highest quality gear is required to execute a concept successfully and Pure AV maintains a reputation of being able to provide both. Our team can help you bring your event’s vision to reality with our LED Video Walls, HD Projectors, Custom Projection Screens, Touch Screen TVs, High Quality Audio Equipment, Lighting Fixtures, and a team of certified technicians and project managers experienced in the top devices on the market.
1-800-929-7089 www.pureav.ca Facebook-square INSTAGRAM Youtube /pureavcanada
10 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
PRODUCT LAUNCH Whenever a company is introducing a new product or service to the market, the word needs to get out. The most effective announcement is by organizing a product launch that is guaranteed to make a statement. The goal of any product launch is not only to let consumers and businesses know of what they are offering, but also a breakdown of how the product functions, how it’s made, the problem it’s solving, and what makes it stand out from the competition. A proper audio visual setup is necessary to get all of these points across effectively. Even a simple setup with 2 screens and a podium can look good by adding small components such as wash lights, hard sets, and a little bit of creativity.
GALA A business’ achievements are meant to be celebrated. Any time a company accomplishes certain
"
Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great." - John D. Rockefeller
goals or reaches a milestone, why let it go unnoticed? Show gratitude to your employees and clients who helped you get to that point. Award ceremonies and dinner/dance galas are a great way to help you do just that and leave a positive lasting impression to the people who matter most. A company that wants to get behind a charity mission or philanthropic goal can do so by organizing a fundraising gala or auction which are one of the best ways to raise funds. Setting the right audio visual atmosphere is essential to ensure success at these events.
given space at your trade show booth you need to be able to draw attention for people to stop by your booth and effectively demonstrate your product within a short period of time. Our experts can help you make the most of your space by coming up with creative solutions to stand out from your competition such as interactive and touchscreen video walls that react to movement using Kinect technology.
PROJECTION MAPPING CONFERENCE A formal meeting in which people gather in order to talk about ideas or problems related to a particular topic (such as medicine or business). Industry leaders and government organizations may find it beneficial to meet collectively to discuss how they can work as a whole to make sure an industry is moving in a direction that is in every company’s best interest. Conferences range from different types and sizes from 1 big presentation stage to multiple small breakout rooms discussing different topics. There are many moving parts to a conference and an experienced AV company can help you with flawless execution of this event. Consider adding a component such as a mobile phone to stage voting system to keep your audience engaged.
The future is here! Projection mapping allows you to transform any surface into whatever you can imagine. Whether used for a creative marketing campaign, a corporate function or advertisement, this technology is guaranteed to stand out. A combination of top quality video equipment, amazing warping/blending ability and unparalleled technical skills results in a visual experience unlike any other. Growing in popularity at a very fast pace, why not be one of the first to give projection mapping a try?
CONCERTS
TRADE SHOW A place where companies and clients can network and showcase their products and services. Every trade show has a large number of companies with similar products competing for contracts and clients. In a
Not every show or performance happens in arenas and concert halls. Event planners who are looking to put together a show with either local talent or international stars need an audio visual company who will work closely with them from the beginning of the planning process. From ribfests to festivals, Pure AV’s technicians can put together a stage design with a combination of the latest LED video panels, moving heads, CO2, confetti and special effects that will impress any audience! Our high-quality audio and video equipment is indoor/outdoor grade and can resist almost any kind of weather.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 11
FEATURE
NewDermaMed Cosmetic and Surgery Clinic DEDICATED TO ENCHANCING YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY AT O U R S TAT E - O F -T H E -A R T FACILITIES located in uptown and down-
town Toronto, we specialize in providing the most advanced surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures available today for correction, prevention, and enhancements. We are living in a time where science is progressing rapidly. Researchers are discovering new medical advances and technological breakthroughs to improve and prolong our lives. It is our commitment at NewDermaMed to bring you the latest advancements in the cosmetic industry. The focus and passion of everyone at NewDermaMed is to make positive changes in the lives of our clients. We are distinguished by providing the highest quality of individualized service, a commitment to safety and patient confidentiality, and superior results. Our experts in the fields of health, beauty, and anti-aging, combined with innovative breakthroughs in technology, work together seamlessly to provide clients with outstanding results. We pride ourselves on having an incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and personable team. Our team’s continuous professional growth is imperative to
12 Summer/Fall 2018
maintaining the highest level of service; which is why we provide opportunities such as first-class training at intensive academies worldwide, from New York to Las Vegas and France to Spain. Leading our cosmetic surgery team are two well-regarded professionals, Dr. Mathew Plant and Dr. Muriel Roach. Dr. Plant attended the University of Waterloo for his undergraduate studies. As an experienced plastic surgeon in Toronto, Dr. Plant offers a variety of services and
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Cosmetic Clinic of 2018 in Toronto
procedures including breast augmentation, facelift, eyelid surgery, liposuction and tummy tuck. Dr. Roach is a cosmetic plastic surgeon, a graduate of University of Toronto, and has been in practice for over 20 years. Dr. Roach strongly believes that cosmetic surgery has little to do with vanity and everything to do with increased self-esteem. At NewDermaMed we offer a number of non-surgical skin treatments
including skin rejuvenation, anti-aging treatments, skin tightening and lifting, acne treatment, scar removal, and PRP hair restoration. In addition, feminine rejuvenation and body sculpting are the newest and most popular treatments available at our clinic. Coolsculpting is one of the most effective non-surgical, fat reduction treatments available today. It is an FDA-approved non-surgical technique that freezes fat that otherwise resists the efforts of diet and exercise. The results are proven, noticeable, and lasting. As part of our anti-aging treatments, we also offer cosmetic injections. Botox® Cosmetic is an ideal treatment option to improve moderate to severe expression lines. It is approved for use in 78 countries worldwide, BOTOX® Cosmetic is one of the most extensively studied medical aesthetic treatments. * BOTOX® Cosmetic has a strong historical record of positive outcomes that aesthetic specialists know and trust. The safety and efficacy of BOTOX® Cosmetic have been evaluated in both Allergan sponsored clinical trials as well as in 417 peer-reviewed articles in scientific and medical journals.
Dermal fillers are designed to add volume and smooth visible lines and wrinkles to restore a youthful glow. NewDermaMed offers a variety of recognized (Dermal fillers (Juvederm, Teosyal, and Belotero) allowing us to take a individual approach to each client’s particular cosmetic needs. Our passionate team of medical professionals recognize that each client has individual aesthetic goals. Our staff will create a customized treatment plan tailored to achieve your desired results.
Downtown Clinic 790 Bay St, Ste 900 • 416-671-9766 Uptown Clinic 4763 Yonge St • 416-224-8800 newdermamed.com
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 13
FEATURE
From Dreamer to Achiever MEET KAREN DIXON, FOUNDER & CEO OF VIXEN速 SPA INC., AND READ HER STORY OF SUCCESS.
KAREN DIXON Founder & CEO of Vixen速 Spa Inc.
14 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
WHEN FOUNDER AND CEO of Vixen速 Spa Inc, Karen Dixon was asked about what inspired her to become an Entrepreneur, she talks about her journey and how Vixen速 became a reality. At a very young age, her dream was always to build her own business. She loved being creative and thinking through possibilities and inventions that would make her feel that the work she was doing was rewarding. She always had a passion for the beauty industry and wanted to influence others through the power of positivity, building relationships and overall wellness. At the age of 8, she wasn't using transparent tape to wrap holiday gifts, instead, she was using it to create fancy nail extensions that adhered to the natural nail bed. Not the most durable invention at the time but as a child, she believed it was the next best thing to having long nails for which her friends thought would be impossible at such a young age. She would attempt to sell them at the neighbourhood parks and playgrounds for .25 cents a set in hopes of growing her new invention. Young and naive, she was eager to make a sale but not for the money. She just wanted to create excitement amongst her friends. She felt her creation made the impossible, possible. Soon enough, her beauty invention was a hit amongst her friends and classmates. Fast forward to the age of 15, she continued to grow her passion in nails, as well as hair and offered her services to friends and family at no cost. She simply loved what she did and was enthusiastic about
strengthening the relationships around her. After high school, she pursued a Business Management Diploma and realized even more than building her own business would be the ultimate goal for her. She obtained deep knowledge of the world of Nails and Esthetics. After obtaining several Nail and Esthetic certifications, she was entrenched in the industry and kept up with her passion. In parallel, her love for people, building relationships and helping others achieve professional success geared her towards a Human Resources career. This enabled her to climb the corporate ladder and hold senior leadership roles within several Fortune 500 organizations. She eventually left the corporate world to build the Vixen Empire, grow her corporate locations to 40+ employees and Franchise the Business. In addition, Karen and the Vixen® organization believes in giving back in a big way not just through nails and hair. Whether it was gathering donations for the Halton Women's Shelter, helping wrap gifts during the holiday season for Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, building houses for Habitat for Humanity or hosting a fundraising event for the Leukemia Foundation and the Canadian Breast Cancer Society, Karen and her team are always finding ways to show their love and support for the communities they serve in. Karen eventually combined the experience she had in retail, leadership, esthetics, operations and Human Resources over the last 20+ years and built a thriving business.
In an extremely competitive market, Vixen® was born. When asked why "Vixen" Karen tells us that the word Vixen is reminiscent of 'Sexy and Confident'. Evidently, the word Vixen means female fox and Karen felt it was symbolic of her goals in building a brand that the public would relate and be attracted to. Since then, the name Vixen has been the talk of the town in households, offices and funny enough in neighbourhood parks, ironically where it all began for her as a child. It's now known as the go-to place to feel sexy and beautiful inside and out. She wanted to have a direct impact on the community around her and for everyone to experience the Vixen Difference, ultimately making the impossible, possible. Vixen Nails & Spa was established in 2011 and is committed to making clients look & feel their best. With 4 Corporate locations and several Franchise locations opening in 2018 across Ontario, the client experience is the #1 focus and aims to build relationships and improve the lives of everyone. This is done by means of collaborating with brand partners and using authentic products while maintaining strictly high sanitization standards. Every detail of the client experience has been carefully thought through providing an environment of comfort and enjoyment for people of all ages. Vixen is licensed to sell and serve alcohol at all their locations which is another distinguishing feature of the business that enhances the overall client experience. Over the years, Vixen Nails & Spa has proudly served tens of thousands
of clients which has enabled them to be an industry leader, achieving awards of excellence year after year. Vixen is the Top Choice Award Winner for 5 consecutive years in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and is this years winner for Top Nail Salon in 2018. Indentifying a huge gap in the marketplace, Vixen Nails & Spa rapidly became the destination for those who value overall wellness and superior client care within a clean and friendly environment - at a price point that's not scary cheap and not outrageously steep. It's a one-stop shop for all beauty needs and continuously works towards having the most current techniques and trends to achieve amazing results. Vixen® is the brand that inspires confidence by providing premium services while improving lifestyles and raising the bar in client experience and personal care. It is Canada's award winning, upscale & trendy beauty destination. Vixen® offers an array of beauty service including Full Hair Salon Services, Manicures, Pedicures, Nail Enhancements, Facials, Waxing, Laser Hair Removal, Massages, Make-up and More. Vixen's motto is Live Well · Be Sexy
Locations in Milton, Mississauga, Toronto, Burlington. Visit vixenspa.com for details.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 15
FEATURE
A Review of Chestnut Flooring YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR FLOORING NEEDS. By Natalie Servello D E S I G N I N N O VAT I O N H A S BECOME a top trend in the interior indus-
try thus far. The importance of combining a chic design, that is sustainable, user and budget friendly surpasses any other group of characteristics when making purchasing decisions, in any industry. This combination has essentially become the future of design. Chestnut Flooring is a corporation that which has mastered this combination, all within the flooring industry. The products they offer go beyond aesthetics, they cherish the quality products they acquire and provide one of the largest selections in the Greater Toronto Area. Chestnut Flooring specializes in flooring coverings, with such a large selection their services go beyond floor covers. The goal of the corporation is to educate the consumer, to ensure they are making a purchase that is most accustomed to their needs. While purchasing a product with Chestnut flooring they provide the client with an exceptional amount of expert advice, including references to the most professional and reputable floor installers, a maintenance guide to any product and design tips to ensure the right decision is made. The client is very important to the corporation, and due to this they have developed a cohesive network in the design industry.
16 Summer/Fall 2018
The options of flooring are endless, ranging from Engineered hardwood to Prefinished hardwood. As a corporation, they have acquired many sustainable options. The first is Eco-friendly hardwood, a flooring that emits little to no greenhouse gasses and allergens all while using less energy and still remaining aesthetically pleasing. In correlation, the product has the longest service life and is naturally biodegradable and easily recyclable. As the list of benefits continue so does the list of alternate products in which share just as many features. Chestnut flooring further highlights the key benefits of specific products such as Vinyl tiles, Laminate flooring and carpet. The maintenance and benefits are highly pushed by the corporation. It is their focus to care for the client and their brand to maintain a content cliental and positive brand reputation. Alongside this, the corporation provides the client with a user-friendly website allowing clients to access it for daily updates on interior design money savers, dĂŠcor ideas, new sustainable products and installers. By doing so, Chestnut Flooring has not just created a brand but has inevitably created a community amongst their clients. The passion for flooring design is increasingly evident within the
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Hardwood Flooring Services of 2018 in Vaughan
corporation. Design advice is also an important aspect to the purchasing process at Chestnut Flooring. Ensuring the product purchased is the best fit for the client in all aspects. How the product physically looks when installed in an alternate benefit that continues to put Chestnut Flooring at the epitome of flooring in design. They are a brand that has developed itself further for the purpose of the consumer and environment, a real innovative approach in the interior design industry.
"
The options of flooring are endless, ranging from Engineered hardwood to Prefinished hardwood."
The flooring industry is one that is favored within interior design. However, it takes knowledge, understanding and a true passion for the products in which allows a corporation to become successful within it. Chestnut Flooring has done just this – whether the purchaser is an industry
professional or personal client – they take pride in meeting their needs and ensuring product quality. The corporation has surpassed the expectations when combining aesthetics, sustainability, and budget awareness. Chestnut Flooring is the future to flooring design.
HARDWOOD . LAMINATE . CARPET . VINYL . TILE
(905) 761-6655 8601 Jane St, Concord, ON Browse our collection of flooring options at chestnutflooring.ca
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 17
FEATURE
Nails @ Anthony's THE EPITOME OF GLAMOUR AND TRUE THERAPY ESCAPE FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN. By Natalie Rose Servello WITH OVER 20 YEARS of experience Nails @ Anthony’s is the Chanel of nail salons within the Vaughan area. Nail’s at Anthony’s is not just a salon in the heart of Vaughan, it is the epitome of glamour, a true therapy escape for both men and women. Owners, Anthony and Carol Nguyen have taken their salon to a caliber so high in the salon industry, it has become a sanctuary for many. There is nothing like a Nails @ Anthony’s weekly service to keep
18 Summer/Fall 2018
you refreshed and feeling beautiful, “What is most important to us, is to satisfy the client” says Anthony. The salon goes beyond just hand and foot services, the aestheticians are trained in all areas of aesthetics, also offering body waxing and spa treatments. The staff is trained on a consistent basis, allowing them to stay up-to-date on trends and treatments within the industry. It has been noted the salon does not just over exceed the expectations of a good manicure but can also wax a perfect brow.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Nail’s at Anthony’s has become Vaughan’s one-stop-shop, a place where men and women feel comfortable and at home. Succss is more than just being the best in your specific industry, it takes time, experience, passion and a family to ultimately achieve it. Anthony and Carol have done just this. They have developed an extensive cliental through their customary service style, and personal relationship building. The salon has become a family for Anthony and Carol, allowing them to
“
It’s all about good product and consistency with work… we want our clients to feel comfortable” – Carol Nguyen, Co-owner
develop personal relationships with their cliental. They pride themselves on quality service, cleanliness and customer contentment, “It’s all about good product and consistency with work… we want our clients to feel comfortable” stated Carol. The men and women of the salon are not only considered clients but friends and family to the couple. This is a main element to the level of success they have attained thus far. It truly is exceptional to build a personal connection with the people you spend most of your time with and let’s be real we all spend a lot of time with our aestheticians. Owner Carol, is focused on placing herself in the position of her clients to ensure they receive the most elusive experience. “To take good care of my clients I think is the most important – understanding my client and their needs and always giving them the best product, this is important, and also no rushing” Carol added. As a salon, it is important the personal element is present, however Anthony and Carol have taken this tactic and made it entirely their own. Their personal element is real and when in the salon the bond between them and their cliental is strong. When we think Nails @ Anthony’s, we think chic. The salon location is decorated with the top trends in interior. Both husband and wife are focused on style and professionalism – elements of the salon that which clients appreciate greatly. For a new client walking in the atmosphere is exhilarating. From the 3-D wall paper, to the leather seats, custom paintings and chandeliers, the salon is curated to perfection. Nail’s at Anthony’s is a catalog in itself, a real 360 experience. Carol explained “Once they come to experience the salon they are never going to feel the same way about any other,” they are focused on taking care of their clients and this also includes an atmosphere that aesthetically pleases the body and mind.
Nail’s at Anthony’s continues to surpass the expectation of clients, the salon is fume free, a characteristic the couple takes pride in. Comfort for the client is key, the salon ensures all clients are treated exceptionally well. They are seated, jackets are taken, beverages are offered; truly granting them an extensive spa experience. In correlation, the salon is focused on all areas of hygiene. Cleanliness is crucial for Nail’s at Anthony’s and it is always in a pristine state. As a fourth-year recipient of the Top Choice Awards the salon is beyond grateful for the support they have received. Nail’s at Anthony’s has greatly expressed their appreciation for their clients. They feel their clients represent their brand and their good vibes only motto, “All about good vibes in here, we want positivity” a quote shared by both husband and wife. Thanks to Anthony, Carol and the Nail’s at Anthony’s team they have curated a luxurious, and at home experience we all deserve.
905 856 8988 8099 Weston Rd., Woodbridge (Off Weston Rd. South of Langstaff)
NailsAtAnthonys.com
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 19
AUTOMOTIVES
AUTORAMA TORONTO’S TOP INDEPENDENT DEALERSHIP, STANDING OUT FROM THE CROWD. IT'S NOT ENOUGH TO hope your company, as it stands, will win and become successful. In order to achieve success and be ahead of the game, you need to be a million times better than your competitors and push yourself to the limits, because to become number #1 you need to act like number #1. Nasser Rad, the CEO & President of Autorama, started his Journey in 2000 and wanted to make an impact by being different and creating a unique company with strong ideals. His vision was to be GTA's most recognizable and trusted pre-owned dealership by providing extraordinary customer service and high-quality inventory that exceeds all competitions. Today, Autorama is a multi-award winning Preowned Dealership in Toronto and its ever-growing number of well-earned awards are testament to the hard work and dedication shown by Rad and his team. Located in the heart of Toronto at 1205 Finch Ave West, AUTORAMA is an elite superstore which provides a wide selection of hand-picked vehicles to choose from at very competitive prices. The dealership carries a variety of popular Japanese, North American & European brands in every make and model you’ve been dreaming of, all of which are indoors which makes it easy for customers to browse. Once you find your match, the finance team will arrange the car loan that makes the most sense for your unique needs. Autorama understands that every customer has specific auto finance requirements. The dealership has partnerships with almost all banks and financial institutions which allows them to serve customers with any credit background. With a team of experts, they are able to match each customer with the right car and the right lender.
20 Summer/Fall 2018
“
We achieve true success when we positively enrich lives and make our community a better place to live. This is not just our responsibility, but our obligation,” –Nasser Rad, President & CEO of Autorama
As a well-known brand and a highly reputable company, improving quality is a daily priority at Autorama. From sales and services to finance, Autorama always aims to increase customer satisfaction. “We constantly meet our own high demands and are committed to continual improvement,” Rad said. Autorama proactively seeks opportunities to support the community. Rad, who is a strong believer in initiatives that directly improve the condition of others, initiated the “Care to Share – Free Cars for People in Need” program in 2015. This program changes lives one car at a time and is designed to serve the financially strained individuals or families who are in dire need of a vehicle.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Being recognized amongst a great league of professionals within the industry as the Best Used Car Dealership in Toronto 6 years in a row is truly a humbling honor for Rad and his entire team. Nasser Rad stated: “Offering better quality, better value and better cars is our vision. Cars are our passion and to always stand out from the crowd is our mission. Perfection is our driving force and we won’t accept anything less. That is how we move into the future.”
416-739-7262 1205 Finch Ave. W, Toronto autorama.ca
1
PICK YOUR CAR
2
PICK YOUR PAYMENT
3
DRIVE TODAY! BETTER QUALITY BETTER VALUE BETTER CARS
20 18
416-739-7262
1205 FINCH AVE. W., TORONTO, ON
AUTORAMA.CA
Thank You, GTA! Robert Half is honoured to have been chosen as the 2018 Top Employment Agency in the Greater Toronto Area.
As we celebrate our win, we’re also celebrating you. As proud as we are to receive this Top Choice Award for 2018, we’re even more appreciative of the opportunity to work with so many amazing individuals and organizations in the Greater Toronto Area.
1.855.270.0488 roberthalf.ca © 2018 Robert Half Canada Inc. RH-0518
Making YOU Stand Out exposystems.com ExpoSystems Canada is the largest manufacturer of modular display solutions in Canada.
ExpoProfile KitZ Modular display options configured to your specifications. Your ready to go “Booth in a Box”.
Banner Stands
Lightboxes
Accessories
A wide range of styles and sizes to suit your needs.
With our ExpoLED Lightbox your graphics will demand attention.
Everything you need including lighting, cases, seating and more.
Lifetime Warranty on ALL ExpoSystems hardware.
Become an ExpoSystems Dealer today. Visit exposystems.com to register and view our full line of industry leading products. 420 PASSMO RE AVE N U E , S CAR B O ROU G H , ON M1V 5B1
1-800-263-3976 | dealers@exposystems.com
AUTOMOTIVES
Bay Auto Zone LUXURY VEHICLES AT EXCEPTIONAL PRICES…FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS.
BAY AUTO ZONE 888-229-3962 1017 Finch Ave. W Toronto, On M3j 2C7 bayautozone.com
24 Summer/Fall 2018
IT ALL BEGAN AS one mechanic in a garage fixing up old cars, and has now expanded to one of the top car dealerships with two showrooms filled with an incredibly unique selection of pre-owned vehicles and an exceptional, fully licensed service shop. Despite our massive growth, however, we still pride ourselves in being a family owned and operated business. Our President & CEO Bahman Bayat’s passion for cars was ignited at a young age, having a mechanic as a father meant he was constantly surrounded by cars, so he quickly learned all there was to know! Upon immigrating to Canada in 1996, his passion was reignited as he tried to find the perfect car for him and his family. After scouring dealership, after dealership, it was difficult to find a suitable car for the right price, so he took it upon himself fix up a 1986 BMW 3 series. Inspired by the car’s transformation, Bahman worked hard to achieve his Certified Mechanic license, to soon be able to open up Bay Auto Zone’s first location, in 1999 and start his business doing what he loved. Our success can only be attributed to the fact that our business is based off of a passion for cars, one that still runs deep amongst the family at Bay Auto Zone. From our knowledgeable team hand selecting unique, high quality vehicles every day, to be a part of our 180+ vehicle inventory. To our thorough service staff and certified mechanics undergoing a full point inspection report with each ca that comes through our doors, in our own licensed facility, to ensure that they are in their
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
best condition for our customers. Not to mention our eager sales team, dedicated to working with every customer to navigate our indoor showrooms, understand what they are looking for in a car, and help find one perfectly suited for them. For the past 20 years, Bay Auto Zone has been dedicated to creating lasting relationships with our customers. Every deal we make is rooted in transparency and trust between us and our customers, we understand the level of commitment that comes into choosing the right car and our main goal is to ensure that we are offering our customers the top cars on the market, in both quality and price. Our customers understand this too, year after year, we love to see them returning with their well-loved vehicles, in search of their next! One of the many qualities that Bay Auto Zone is known for is that we service what we sell, meaning that we welcome our customers to return to our service shop for any work to be done on their vehicles, as well as for a complimentary annual alignment service. Our customers know that working with our service team, there is no doubt they are getting the best deal and safest car. At Bay Auto Zone, our approval rate is 100%! Our team works with many banks and financing institutions to find leasing and financing for all of our customers, regardless of credit or circumstance. We stand by our competitive prices, and always offer price matching with our competition to ensure that our customers are getting the best deals!
150+
CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED VEHICLES
EASY FINANCING
WE FIANCE ANY KIND OF CREDIT
TRADE-INS
WE PAY TOP DOLLAR FOR ALL TRADE-INS
PURCHASES
WE CAN FIND YOUR NEXT CAR FOR YOU
BAY AUTO ZONE
888-229-3962 FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
1017 FINCH AVE. W TORONTO, ON M3J 2C7
SINCE 1999
BAYAUTOZONE.COM
20 18
VOTED TOP PRE-OWNED LUXURY CAR DEALERSHIP OF 2018
EDUCATION & LEARNING
Ultimate Dance Company TAKING DANCE IN CALGARY TO THE TOP Photo: photobliss.com Makeup: Maysaa Elrafih @maysa.maisonblu
DEBRA MUDD HAS PASSION, talent and drive – a combination necessary to reach the pinnacle of success. Debra, a dancer, teacher, studio owner and most importantly mentor, has taken the Calgary dance scene to a whole new level. She opened her first studio, Ultimate Dance Company, in Calgary, Alberta in 1996 – this was the beginning of her career and the original foundation of her journey to inspire local dancers. It was in 2014 when Debra decided it was time to add a second location in Calgary. Growing up, Debra always had a passion for dance. Her dance training began when she was four years old and has never stopped, “I started dancing when I was four, all my training evolved, I went to school (postsecondary) for Early Childhood education and wanted to open up a preschool and instead opened a dance studio,” says Mudd. Debra’s education in dance is one that surpasses many, as she is trained in various segments of the art. However, it is ballet where her true forte lies. In addition to attending summer intensives with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet school, Debra has trained in both the Cecchetti and Vaganova methods of ballet and has achieved a number of certifications in ballet, including credentials with the Royal Academy of Dance and British Association of Teachers in Dance. Debra is currently a registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance. This nowhere near concludes the list of Debra’s credentials in dance education as she is always pursuing additional training. Presently, Debra also works as a mentor for new teachers, assisting them in gaining their certification with the Royal Academy of Dance.
26 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
DEBRA MUDD Dancer, Mentor and Owner of Ultimate Dance Company
Due to Debra’s expertise and the increased demand for her studios, there is talk about further expansion. “Yes, definitely, I am always thinking and planning.” Debra’s approach to teaching styles differs in comparison to most. She takes a caring approach and focuses a great deal of her attention on her faculty at the studio. The studio is always up-todate on the latest in dance training and instruction, and Debra makes sure to offer workshops to the students in all dance styles. Ultimate Dance Company has created an environment that goes beyond just dance training and offers opportunities for faculty and students to build lasting relationships. Ultimate Dance Company includes both competitive and recreational dance programs for families with different types of needs. Debra makes sure to offer a wide range of classes for all ages and abilities so that the studio can cater to what people are looking for. In addition to training, Debra takes the time to incorporate dance trips for all her students. Such trips include Disneyland, where most recently, 64 dancers were granted the opportunity to perform on a stage in Disneyland as well as train with Disney professionals. Debra has also made it her goal to ensure her dancers are granted ultimate exposure. Debra hosts three large yearend recitals, where the students can share everything they’ve learned from the past year with all their loved ones. What grants Debra the upper hand in the industry is her true passion for her career, “I love what I do, every day, all day.” Debra has learned an exceptional amount as a dance studio owner for 22 years. Her challenges are few and the inevitable hardships she encounters are turned into learning experiences. “I think if you continue to stay in touch with training and what’s new in the industry and expose yourself to it, there isn’t really much of a challenge.” Debra’s energy is focused on her students, always ensuring that inspiration and positivity are instilled in their instruction each day. Positivity is key when overcoming obstacles and maintaining the calibre of studio that Ultimate Dance Company has become. As a mentor, Debra is constantly encouraging her students to attend workshops, auditions and summer school programs. Debra is recognized for taking
“
I love what I do, all day, every day.”
the extra time with her students and defining their needs as dancers. She is determined to prepare her dancers for the path they are destined for, whether it’s personal training for top dance schools located around the world or simply identifying a dance form that best suits them. Because of her extensive experience, she is aware of the demands that top international dance schools place on students, thus allowing her to prepare her students for what will be expected. Debra’s students have done additional training with Joffrey Ballet School in New York City, Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washington, Boston Ballet School, Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, and Canada’s National Ballet School in Toronto. In relation to her personal success, Debra acknowledges her participation with Top Choice Awards, “It has taken my studio to a whole other level.” Being a Top Choice Award winner has granted Debra and her Ultimate Dance Company faculty a leading edge in the city. The community has recognized the achievements of the studio and the benefits it has granted its young students. Also, when considering further studio expansion into new areas, Top Choice Awards has established an exceptional system of brand awareness. For this, Debra is beyond grateful for the future opportunities available to her as a Top Choice Award winner.
It is through the art of dance that Debra has had the opportunity to offer her students an exceptional addition to their extracurricular education. Her efforts and determination shine above all other attributes when recognizing her success as a studio owner. Debra completes every task to her fullest potential and this is a motto she projects upon her students. “There will be ups and downs but don’t give up, keep pushing forward, take every opportunity to learn and train, because there are endless possibilities in the dance world”, says Debra as she shares her most prominent words of wisdom with the Top Choice Awards team. Evidently, through Debra’s personal and professional pursuits she has proven to be not only a mentor, but an inspiration to young dancers everywhere.
403-251-6472 ultimatedanceco.com 2 locations in Calgary 306, 19369 Sheriff King Street SW 19, 4948 126 Avenue SE
EDUCATION & LEARNING
VOTED Top Choice Montessori School of 2018 in Brampton
Songbirds Montessori School MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE CHILD AT A TIME! SONGBIRDS MONTESSORI SCHOOL OPENED its doors in 2004.
Since then it has grown from a small classroom with only 3 children to 5 locations across the GTA serving over 450 families. This significant growth was only possible thanks to the passion, hard work and dedication of our wonderful team. It all started with a childhood Dream and passion of Director, Preeti Paul, who loved children and Education. She always wanted to do something with kids and Educating them. And when the time came to fulfil her dream, her husband Sourav Paul was there to encourage her and help her. Since then they both have been working together towards the same goal of expanding the schools as well as serving the community. Songbirds Montessori
28 Summer/Fall 2018
School is proud to provide a safe and stimulating environment for ages 16 months to 6 years. We also offer an Elementary program at our Brampton North location for Grades 1-3. Songbird's is licensed by Ministry of Education and are also proud members of various Organizations like Raising the Bar in Peel, CDRCP, ADCO etc. Our School follows the Montessori Method which is an educational philosophy that was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over hundred years ago. Dr. Maria Montessori has developed the program by doing detailed observations of each child at work or play. Montessori education promotes the child’s total development and helps children achieve their potential without pressure or competition. Children at Songbirds Montessori Schools are free to challenge themselves at their own pace without feeling ahead or behind. Our teachers provide the children with the tools and strategies to develop important skills and become successful contributors to the community. Children are encouraged to love learning and asking questions. They build confidence and reach their goals through experience. Songbirds Montessori School’s mission statement is “A Secure place of Joyous learning” and we excel in that. Our school respects and welcomes every child and family regardless of their race, religious beliefs and cultural values. Our staff is
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
welcoming, caring, friendly, experienced and fully trained in Montessori and/ or Early Childhood Education. Our locations have upgraded, large outdoor spaces and equipment to promote each student’s gross motor skills. Songbirds Montessori Schools are open year-round; we follow a curriculum-based education throughout the year and offer summer camp programs. We arrange field trips for children and put on concerts and holiday parties for parents and extended families to enjoy. We are very pleased to create smaller classroom sizes to enhance learning and provide one on one attention that every child deserves. We are very proud to win the Top Choice Award for the 5th year in a row! Proudly serving at 5 locations: Brampton Downtown 49 Wellington Street West Brampton North 2 Fisherman Drive Brampton West 9705 James Potter Road Whitby 293 Michael Blvd Brampton – Ellen Street 8, Ellen Street 1-800-285-1767 songbirdsmontessorischool.com
EDUCATION for life The Songbirds Montessori School is committed to the promotion and delivery of quality childcare. Adhering to a Montessori approach which promotes a child’s total development
Ages: 16 months to 12 years 6 campuses in the GTA: Brampton, Milton, Oakville, Whitby
905-444-9777 • SongbirdsMontessoriSchool.com
20 18
“
MY DAUGHTER GAINED SO MUCH more than amazing dance training, she gained confidence in herself and learned how to be a part of a supportive team! She made life long friends, and really came into her own outside of dance in school because of her confidence” – R.Fiorientino, Parent
With over 19 years of success in the dance industry, CDA offers beginner and advanced recreational, competitive and performing programs from ages two to adult!
20 18
(905) 836-8040 16715 Yonge Street Unit #28 Newmarket, Ontario, L3X 1X4 cdadanceacademy.com
Back 2 School - Introductory Special ONE Week of Unlimited Classes TWO 15 Minute Private Lessons FREE Uniform
prodigymartialarts.ca
905 542 3999
.com
putting the excellence in services
info@prodigymartialarts.ca
EDUCATION & LEARNING
Toronto Dance Industry TORONTO'S TOP DANCE STUDIO HELPS YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT DANCE EDUCATION FOR YOUR STAR.
C H O I C E S . E V E RYW H E R E W E TURN, we are given choices. Dance edu-
cation is no different. Choosing the right dance studio for your child is an important task. This is where your child will flourish in physical fitness and understand the importance of commitment and hard work. This is where your child will attain independence and learn many valuable life skills that will stay with him or her well past their dancing days. Ask yourself, “what do I want for my child?� Do you want a positive, welcoming establishment, where your child is
32 Summer/Fall 2018
20 18
Voted Top Choice Dance School of 2018 in the GTA
happy to attend? A place where your child can learn from professionals, but still be a child? Do you want a place where good old fashioned respect and manners are qualities that remain in tact? Do you want options? People choose dance for different reasons. Some are looking for recreation, others are looking for the start of a career. Some dance one hour per week, while others dance 15 hours. Either way, the one thing that should remain the same, is enjoyment. We believe that success is attainable through enjoyment. Your dance education
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
experiences should be both fulfilling and rewarding. A family business since 1988, we are currently celebrating our 30th Anniversary with many second generation families at the studio. We are flattered and very grateful to see our previous students now bringing children of their own to TDI. We pride ourselves in the friendly, family-oriented atmosphere that we are known for. Our 14,000 square foot state-of-theart facility houses six dance studios, two parent lounges, with television and class viewing monitors, multiple change
(416) 285-4470 1530 Birchmount Road, Unit 1 Scarborough, ON M1P 2G9 inquiries@torontodanceindustry.com @torontodanceindustry
rooms, quiet room, lunch room and parent work-out room. We offer free wi-fi for your convenience, and there is plenty of free parking in our three separate parking lots. The studio is located directly on Birchmount Road, just south of Ellesmere Road, in Scarborough, making it easily accessible by both car and public transit. Our qualified, friendly faculty of 15 are dedicated to the progress of every student at the studio, recreational or competitive. Our reception staff is on hand during operating hours to assist and answer any question you may have. With six dance
studios, our class schedule is quite extensive, allowing many options to fit classes into your already busy schedule. Our dance season runs from September through June, with an eight week condensed program over the summer. Our award winning competitive team attends between four and five competitions each year, and performs in both our Winter Showcase and Spring Recitals. Our recreational dancers perform in our Spring Recitals, complete with professional staging in a beautiful theatre. We strive to give back to the community with
guest performances, and are happy to provide many incentive and reward programs to our dance families throughout the year. Professional programs and facility statistics aside, there are many options available for current and aspiring dancers of all ages. Again, ask yourself, “What is it that I want for my child?” You’re making a choice that involves more than learning just a few dance moves. Our doors are open for anyone wishing to learn more about Toronto Dance Industry. The choice is yours!
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 33
Voted Top Choice Music School in the GTA for the fourth time. Thank you.
CELEBRATING OVER
YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
B2B SERVICES
Information Can Be Sexy RECORDXPRESS HELPS YOU MANAGE AND CONTROL YOUR DATA “SEXY” IT HAD BEEN 27 years in the business before I heard this term used when referring to data, and in this case, it was referred to when converting hard copy to digital, not a term I would have used but used nonetheless. However, I did get your attention and I thought bikinis and abs would be over the top. But in fact there is data everywhere, you print that email, fill out a form at the doctors, sign the paperwork at the bank, and even that entry form to win a tablet at that conference you attended. All this information is gathered, stored and then what. With RECORDXPRESS we teach and train all our sales and even our inhouse staff to always ask “And Then What” how many times have you hit the little disc icon and then had to decide what to call the document, and then have to decide where to put it, and then 3 days later cannot remember
36 Summer/Fall 2018
either and do the 3 second hope that it is still in your recent documents folder only to be let down and see that at least that recipe for Sheppards Pie deep fried potatoes balls is at least there. And again it brings us back to why we ask “and then what...”
VALUE Information does cost to store and it does cost to manage internally or externally, however, there are returns to be found in the data. Looking at past process’s and work flows to find room for improvement and using the data to evaluate, cost analysis and comparing year over year values of various products, sometimes we can be surprised about the value of something when we look at the numbers, something as simple as looking at the start times of you staff can help manage productivity. Which clients are your most valuable, who is has lost value and who have you done business with in the past and can you go back to them.
GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR INFORMATION Communication is where to start, unfortunately, more often then not we hear “I did not know” or, “no one told me”. So communicate with your staff and teams and let them know what the expectations and policies are around your data and information governance plans are
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
(been trying to write this term in the entire article) and help educate them on the importance of practising safe information management. Some information and data may not always seem relevant and some may need to be kept due to legislation and or internal policy, but more often then not we can use it for gain and understanding. Use it to better your Business, and yourselves internally. But the bottom line is using it, manage it and find the value within it. Set up, train, and follow up on your programs. Over the years I have found rewarding people for believing and following information management programs can go along way. As many will preach about the importance of keeping and managing data and information. It is equally responsible to set a retention period or life cycle in order to manage and protect your organization as well. Old outdated documents can hinder management of information, and add unnecessary cost. As an organization decide where that line is, follow ministry regulations to assist with these programs, old data can be just as harmful as not having the right data. There is a balancing act and a line to be drawn, so put it in place and make it happen. To learn more about RecordXpress, visit recordxpress.ca or see our ad.
We manage your
data you manage your
business
RECORDS & DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT • SECURE DOCUMENT DESTRUCTIONS • DATA BACKUP & MEDIA MANAGEMENT
20 18
TORONTO 416.849.5991 • KITCHENER 519.585.0062 • SUDBURY 705.524.5554 • TOLL-FREE 1.877.581.5357
RECORDXPRESS.CA
B2B
Gredico Footwear YOUR FOOTWEAR SOURCE FOR OVER 40 YEARS. Gredico is honoured to be voted Top Choice Canadian Footwear wholesaler of 2018 in GTA. For more than 40 years, Gredico has been and continues to be a prominent footwear sourcing agent and wholesaler, representing the largest footwear providers and retailers in the world. Privately owned, with a stellar reputation in the footwear industry for quality and reliability. Specializing in the importing and the wholesaling of men’s, women’s and children’s private label, licensed and brand name footwear. To be successful, Gredico relies on their tight-knit team of sales professionals across North America and Asia to manage production, source innovative materials, provide quality control and export logistics. They not only design, import and warehouse the product for their customers, they have also seen tremendous growth from their Branded Sales Division. With brands like Foamtreads®, Taos®, Salt Water Sandals® and Havaianas®, it is no small feat delivering top notch customer service to over 1000 active accounts ranging from clothing boutiques to specialty retailers. Gredico’s success is largely in part to their insistence on quality merchandise, on-time deliveries, and their ability to provide in-stock and in-season replenishment by size. One of the Brands, Gredico is proud to own is Foamtreads®. Foamtreads® is an innovative, comfort focused, slipper brand for women, men and children. The brand draws on a unique blend of European and Canadian designed, supported by 50+ years of sales growth in North America. Their specialty line called Foameds, is feature rich and designed to bring comfort to patients with health concerns that impact their feet or mobility. Gredico is proud to distribute Taos® Footwear for the last 10+ years. Founded in 2005, Taos® was born from a simple
38 Summer/Fall 2018
"
Gredico’s success is largely in part to their insistence on quality merchandise, on-time deliveries, and their ability to provide in-stock and in-season replenishment by size.
idea, to create stylish and comfortable footwear without compromise. Designed in Southern California and produced globally, their influence remains tied to the namesake city of Taos, New Mexico, for its serenity, artistic nature, and casual lifestyle. Signature touches include but are not limited to natural stones, metal ornaments, and playful embroidery, all referencing the area’s natural heritage. The DNA of Taos Footwear is easy to see, but difficult to duplicate: adjustable uppers, anatomical footbeds, and artisan finished leathers. Buying a pair of shoes from Taos Footwear is more than just a purchase; it’s validation of Taos Footwear’s promise to provide style and comfort. In 2016, Gredico started distribution of the brand Salt Water Sandals® in Canada. An American tradition for almost 70 years. Salt Water Sandals® have remained a dependable summer staple. More than just a name; they invite you to wade into the ocean or throw your dirty sandals into the
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
washing machine to see how quickly they dry and spring back into shape, ready for your next adventure. There is no substitute for the Original Salt Water Sandal. Proudly distributed in Canada is Havaianas®. Born in Brazil, where they are still made to this day Havaianas® are the Original Flip Flop that has been making feet happy since 1962. Made from 100% premium rubber recipe that no other brand has been able to replicate. Thousands of styles with prints that begin with handdrawn sketches from their designers. Browse our brands and footwear selection by visiting us online at gredicofootwear.com
20 18
www.gredicofootwear.com
FINANCE & LEGAL
SHABNAM AKRAMI Managing Partner and Founder of Akrami & Associates
Voted Top Choice 20 18
40 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Immigration Law Firm of 2018 in Mississauga
Akrami & Associates MISSISSAUGA'S TOP CHOICE IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM WITH THE REVIEWS TO BACK IT UP! WE UNDERSTAND THAT FINDING
yourself in a position where you need legal immigration advice canbe stressful. We also know that legal jargon can be confusing. This is why when you turn to Akrami & Associates for help, we take the time to explain your options in plain language, before taking any action. In matters of the law, nothing matters more than the firm and people you choose to represent your interests. By choosing Akrami & Associates, you will have a team of fearless advocates who will work towards servicing your best interest. In short, we share an uncompromising commitment to serving your interests and ensuring a successful outcome. Perhaps it’s why we are the most consistently recommended and selected Top Choice law firm in Mississauga. We have grown significantly in the last few years. This is all thanks to our clients who believe we can make a difference in their lives.What has made us very successful is our approachability. We strive every day to provide exceptional service by a team who cares about the future of our clients in Canada. We offer competitive flat rates to allow clients to have an expert to deal with their immigration matter so they can have a piece of mind. We apply our dedicated client approach to each case and are proud to offer low flat rates. We do have a high success rate and we achieve this through practical and innovative legal solutions. We invite all our clients to contact us and give us an opportunity to review their case and outline options for them. We believe in “There is Always a Way!” Akrami & Associates would like to thank our clients for voting us the Top Choice Immigration Law firm of 2017 and 2018. Our team of professional practitioners strive towards excellence in customer care and we hope we can continue to provide you with exceptional service. We invite you to read some of our favourite reviews from our amazing clients.
“I made the perfect choice with Akrami & Associates. They are really professional and very helpful in the whole spouse sponsorship PR application. I want to thank them for their patience and care through my whole PR application process. They put a lot of effort which resulted in a positive result. I give the credit for getting the approval of my application in just less than 6 months of my application date. Thank you a lot Akrami & Associates and wish you all the best.” StarStarStarStarStar review from Hassan Merei “Akrami and Associates provided excellent advice and guidance during our application process. We greatly appreciate your open communication and timely responses to all our questions and your follow up after the process has been approved. Thank you!” StarStarStarStarStar review from Kendra Neoh “Akrami and Associates is a fantastic firm. They helped me with my criminal rehabilitation application from start to finish. They provided help via phone and email whenever I needed it. They provided me with all the necessary forms, detailing exactly what I needed to fill out and return, as well as giving me recommendations as to where go for outside needs (fingerprints/photos). Plus, due to their diligence in the matter, my application was approved in a shorter than expected time frame!” StarStarStarStarStar review from Gedusa Engineer 1100 Central Parkway West Unit 28, 2nd Floor, Mississauga Toll-free: 1 (877) 820-7121 (416) 477-2545 thevisa.ca
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 41
FINANCE & LEGAL
AP Lawers A SUCCESSFUL LAW FIRM CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO Elizabeth Strange Everyone wants a talented, driven lawyer that they can trust– and afford. The team at AP Lawyers works towards challenging common practices in their industry while providing exceptional service to each client they represent, regardless of budget. If being recognized as the best family law firm in the Durham Region from 2016 to 2018 is any indication, this strategy is working. Winning awards was never a goal for the team at AP Lawyers. Their goal has always been to provide exceptional legal service, treat their customers as they treat their own family, and bring those they represent the results they deserve. One key reason why the firm continues to exceed clients’ expectations is their ability to evolve their practices to meet the current climate of their industry. The needs of clients in family law are constantly evolving, and the team at AP Lawyers works tirelessly to ensure that their services are held to the utmost standard. Those who work at the firm know that the traditional path isn’t always the correct one, and aren’t afraid to go off the beaten trail to find creative solutions that cater to each client they represent. The team at AP Lawyers focuses on ensuring that they can provide comfort to their clients by offering the best legal advice at realistic price points. Along with this, each lawyer takes the necessary steps to ensure their clients understand their file, the current path of action for their case, and exactly where each dollar they are spending is going. Family law is emotionally draining and certainly time-consuming. Throughout the journey, your lawyer becomes a trusted partner who advises you outside the court and represents you inside the court. When choosing any member of the AP Lawyers team, one is choosing a lawyer who will work diligently to exceed what is expected of them, while respecting a specific budget throughout the process. As a skilled,
42 Summer/Fall 2018
ANGELA PRINCEWILL Founding Lawyer of AP Lawyers compassionate, and driven group of lawyers, AP Lawyers is a small office with an enormous heart – one that guides their work with each client they represent. Judging by the extraordinarily positive reviews of the firm both online and off, AP Lawyers’ loyal base of clientele will continue to grow with the firm as it develops into the future. When you get to know each lawyer on the team, it’s clear that Angela has cultivated a team of likeminded individuals working towards the same goal. Not only does each lawyer at AP Lawyers have an impressive track record and strong educational background, but each is guided by personal ethics and the firm’s core vision of compassion and respect. The team will continue to fight for those they represent and uphold their high standards of service. The team is re-defining what it means to be a modern law firm and is what many consider the new face of law in the Durham Region.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Family Law Firm of 2018 in Durham Region
905-492-7662 1480 Bayly Street, Suite 2 Pickering, ON aprincewill.com
AFFORDABLE ACCESSIBLE MOBILE LAWYERS PC
LAWYERS • • • • • •
REAL ESTATE CLOSINGS BUSINESS LAW LITIGATION MORTGAGES & MICs WILLS & ESTATES CONDO DEVELOPMENT
JEFF LEVY MANAGING PARTNER
LEVYZAVET.COM ASK@LEVYZAVET.COM
416.477.5941
(TOLL FREE) 1-877-777-8977
20 18
FINANCE & LEGAL
Costa Law Firm PC TOP CRIMINAL LAW SERVICES IN TORONTO. WHEN YOU'RE NOT FEELING well, you go to a doctor. When you're tooth is aching, you visit a dentist. When you need legal advice or action, you go to Costa Law Firm.From criminal to family law and everything in between, they've got you covered. It's no wonder why they've been voted by their clients as Toronto's Top Choice for 10 years. Their goal at Costa Law Firm is for your success. They believe business people and individuals require cost-effective quality legal advice. The professionals at Costa Law Firm understand this and continue to meet and exceed client expectations. Creative, practical solutions at every stage make them the competitive choice to achieve your objectives. You can expect your lawyers to go the extra mile for your business and personal needs every time. They can schedule appointments at your convenience, they will return your calls promptly, and keep
44 Summer/Fall 2018
David Costa, Founder and Principle Lawyer of Costa Law Firm PC
you informed of your matters as they develop. At Costa Law Firm, they will utilize their experience, skills, and resources until opportunities and solutions are found. You can feel confident and relaxed that you're in good hands. By servicing more than 25 cities and municipalities in 9 different legal fields, it is clear why the voters have chosen Costa Law Firm as the Top. “Thank you again, David, for being my legal eagle, our hero and good friend, and thank you for being a good friend to our family. It is a treasured gift for us to have your friendship.� David Costa is the founding member of Costa Law Firm. Within a short period of time David generated a client base that recognizes his unique ability to achieve effective results. He has expanded the firm among specialized associates who together provide a wide range of legal counsel to local and international clients.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Mr. Costa obtained his Canadian law degree from the University of Windsor. He also obtained his American law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Costa Law Firm has developed the skills and experience needed to address the legal concerns of the local community. Mr. Costa leads the Criminal Law division at the firm. As well, he works with the associates in the Business Law, Municipal Law and Real Estate Law Departments to provide the best service to those wishing to realize their business objectives.
Professional Corporation
24-hour Pager: (416) 535-0329 1015 Bloor St. W, Toronto costalawfirm.ca
Top Choice Awards 10 Years Running
FINANCE & LEGAL
Davies Law Firm THE DIFFERENCE IS IN THE RESULTS Davies Law Firm delivers results. The law firm has been voted the top family law firm in Ottawa for the fifth year in a row. This prestigious award is reflective of the public recognition of Davies Law Firm’s persistent defence of their clients’ rights in family law matters and its ability to achieve successful outcomes for its clients. At Davies Law, the focus is always on advancing and protecting the rights of the client. Clients can be certain that their
46 Summer/Fall 2018
concerns will be addressed promptly and professionally. The fact that Davies Law has been chosen once again for the Top Choice award for Family Law Services illustrates that clients of Davies Law appreciate the quality of service that the firm delivers. Tanya Davies is the founder and principal lawyer at Davies Law Firm. She is responsible for the firm’s day to day operations and overall case management.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Family Law Services of 2018 in Ottawa
Tanya Davies approaches every case with a caring and open mind, combined with a strong desire to advocate on behalf of the client. Her goal is always to achieve the most effective and beneficial result for the client. Her experience, creativity and legal knowledge make this goal a reality. Tanya obtained a degree in Psychology before turning to a career in law. She obtained her law degree from the University of Ottawa in 2003 and was
"
My approach to family law is always to make sure that the client is fully aware of his or her options and provide open and honest advice." – TANYA DAVIES, FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL LAWYER
called to the Bar two years later. She has successfully operated a family law practice in the Ottawa area since then. She has taught family law at the college level and has published articles on family law issues. Her practice is focused on family law. She is dedicated and committed to working hard for her clients. She understands the stress and emotional upheaval that family law proceedings cause and she works hard to guide her clients through the legal minefield that is family law. Her educational background in psychology enables her to consider each file from a unique perspective and to analyze the motivation behind the behaviour of parties following separation as well as their legal positions. Tanya’s approach to family law is always to make sure that the client is fully aware of his or her options. She will give open and honest advice. If a matter can be resolved amicably by negotiation, she will pursue that route. But if the matter needs to be litigated, then you will find in Tanya Davies a forceful, persistent advocate for your rights. Rest assured, Tanya will advance your position with skill and passion. Her goal is to achieve a successful outcome for you. She will fight for your rights. At the same time, she will make sure that you understand the process and are not left in the dark. Legal proceedings are always stressful. Tanya will let you know where you stand at every stage. And she will stand by you. Davies Law Firm has achieved its reputation as a very successful family law
firm thanks to hard work, professionalism, skill and a commitment to provide a superior level of personalized service. Tanya Davies understands the legal system. She knows family law and, like the skilled practitioner that she is, she will give you competent, effective service. When it comes to family matters, an experienced family lawyer is not only an asset: it is a necessity. The legal professionals at Davies Law are equipped to take on the challenges that family law cases often present.
613-688-0462 tdavies@davieslegalfirm.com 275 Slater Street, Suite 900 Ottawa, ON K1P 5H9 daviesdivorcelaw.com
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 47
FINANCE & LEGAL
Diamond & Diamond Extends Tough Advocacy Brand Across Additional Levels of Law PAST PRESENCE OF CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE GIVES YIELD TO LEGAL SERVICE EXPANSION. IT WAS A MERE five years ago when Personal Injury powerhouse Diamond and Diamond setup shop in a North Toronto office with new management and a mission. That mission, to revolutionize the Personal Injury industry, has been one that has been undeniably successful. Cut to countless awards, an expansion to an additional 13 offices, national media exposure, shrewd marketing, a client base keen to refer friends, and you have the perfect recipe for business success. It is just that reputation that has given way to a service expansion poised to shakeup the legal industry as a whole. In 2017, the firm setup brand new divisions in the areas of real estate, family law, immigration, wills and estates. Their sell? To provide flat rate legal services without the intimidation of large bay street retainers. “We have a very large base of satisfied clients who initially came to us through word of mouth,” said Jeremy Diamond,
48 Summer/Fall 2018
– SANDRA ZISCKIND, MANAGING PARTNER
one of the firm’s partners. “It is a natural extension that you would help them in other areas.” The flat-rate pricing has proven to be a successful model, especially in the face of shifts within the legal business structure of firms across the country. With fixed pricing there are no surprises and the firm has an incentive to work efficiently on a file. Just weeks ago, the firm hired lawyer Darryl Singer to head up yet another division, corporate commercial. Singer, a Toronto-area lawyer with more than 24 years of trial, advocacy and negotiating experience, brings with him
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
“
We’re a law firm for the people, we want access to justice for all and we will continue to work tirelessly for it.”
his entire team of lawyer paralegals and law clerks. His experience includes arguing over 60 complex commercial injunctions losing only twice. Singers addition to the firm allows them to extend their brand across nearly all major services of law and for them to answer calls from their current client base. Now all that’s left to do is continue their non-stop geographic expansion across Canada. For managing partner, Sandra Zisckind, a new wave of law is on the horizon. “We’re a law firm for the people,” said Zisckind. “We want access to justice for all and we will continue to work tirelessly for it.”
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Injury Law Firm of 2018 in Toronto
1-800-567-HURT diamondlaw.ca
THANK YOU TOP CHOICE AWARD FOR VOTING US BEST PERSONAL INJURY LAW FIRM 2018
INJURED? Call us today!
CAR ACCIDENT SLIP & FALL BRAIN INJURIES
WRONGFUL DEATH
ANIMAL AND DOG BITES LONG TERM DISABILITY
TM
14 Offices to serve you better!
FINANCE & LEGAL
Eddie Quindamo FOR 28 YEARS, EDDIE QUINDAMO HAS DONE MORE THAN HELP PEOPLE GET A MORTGAGE, HE HAS HELPED THEM JUMPSTART THEIR LIVES WITH A MANAGABLE MORTGAGE THAT IS RIGHT FOR THEM. HOW TO SELECT THE
right Mortgage Broker for you? There is a lot to consider when financing your home and selecting the right Mortgage Broker is essential in maximizing the right mortgage for you.
SERVICE I am paid a finder’s fee by the lender, which is similar to commission in traditional sales, meaning no cost incurred by you.
SIMPLE APPLICATION PROCESS Experience is essential here. I am able to assess, process and deliver your application to lenders within 24 hours. I make sure the application is done right the first time, to help avoid delays.
STEP BY STEP GUIDANCE
I have access to discounted interest rates that the banks cannot compete with as well as insights to a wide range of mortgage products.
I am able to walk you through each stage of the mortgage process, regardless if you are a first time home buyer or a seasoned real estate connoisseur. By understanding every step, you will feel more confident in the decisions you are making that can otherwise seem overwhelming.
SHOPPING THE MARKET
A LASTING RELATIONSHIP
I am working for you, not the bank. For that reason I can shop the market which includes credit unions and trust companies, saving you time and money.
I truly appreciate your business and your referrals, so I work hard to ensure that you are satisfied with my service. My commitment to you as a client, always goes the extra mile. Annual Mortgage Check-Ups, Variable Rate Updates and the planning of your Mortgage Burning Party are all thoughtful ways that separate me from other Mortgage Brokers.
DISCOUNTED INTEREST RATES
COMPARISON I am able to provide you with side by side comparisons of both interest rates and mortgage products (not all lenders have the same mortgage products).
50 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
20 18
Voted Top Mortgage Broker in Vaughan
RECENT REGULATORY CHANGES Most recent regulatory changes have made it challenging for home buyers and borrowers to qualify for a mortgage or obtain muchneeded financing. Eligibility can be trickier now more than ever for an array of Canadians. Self-employed individuals and credit challenged clients still have options amidst all the changes that have come about. My continued access to over 25 lenders, including private lenders, helps to tailor a proper, manageable mortgage and financing product to my clients’ specific needs and ultimately, their financial goals.
EDDIE QUINDAMO Mortgage Broker License # 10584 For 28 years, Eddie Quindamo has helped thousands of clients obtain their dream home and other financing goals. Eddie’s proven record of success can best be captured by his solid reputation and the strong relationships he has developed within his community as well as with his 25+ lenders.
(905) 652-3000 ext. 200 eddie@idirectmortgages.com 7827 Kipling Ave. Woodbridge, On L4L 1Z4 eddiequindamo.com Each Mortgage Centre office is independently owned and operated.
Feldstein Family Law Group founder Andrew Feldstein and the Firm’s 12 lawyers continue to display excellence within the family law services industry with their focus on the well-being of children, their dedication to providing access to family law services for all Canadians, and with their live-streaming family law Q&A show ‘Ask Andrew’.
The Well-Being of Children
ABOUT US
Going through a divorce or separation is a stressful and confusing time in a child’s life and can have a lasting impact on them as they enter adolescence and young adulthood. The lawyers at Feldstein
The Feldstein Family Law Group is devoted to practising family law exclusively, in areas such as divorce, custody and access, spousal support and child support, and division of family property. We also negotiate separation agreements on behalf of our family law clients. The Firm has shown a continuous commitment to providing family law services in the GTA, and a dedication to improving access to those services. To learn more about the Feldstein Family Law Group, visit their website at www.separation.ca.
Family Law Group are committed to serving clients in a way that minimizes the negative impacts for any children involved in the matter. It is their experience in practising exclusively in family law that allows the Feldstein Family Law Group’s lawyers to work with their clients in this way.
Unbundled Family Law Services The lawyers at Feldstein Family Law Group understand that legal costs are an obstacle to some people, and they are dedicated to making family law services as accessible as possible. FamilyLawHelp.ca was developed to guide people through basic procedures and documents they may encounter
To inquire about the family law services offered by Feldstein Family Law Group, call us toll free or email us today.
in family law. Unbundled legal services provide assistance on a limited retainer basis, meaning that the client decides what work they would like to be done by a lawyer, giving them more control over their case and the associated costs.
1-800-498-3486
Family Law Q&A Live Show The ‘Ask Andrew’ show is a free family law Q&A show that
info@feldsteinfamilylaw.com 20 Crown Steel Dr Suite 8, Markham, ON L3R 9X9 www.separation.ca
streams live to Facebook and YouTube once a month. In each episode, Andrew and a special guest engage in a discussion on a certain topic as it relates to family law. The show also takes questions from viewers. Building on the idea of FamilyLawHelp.ca, the Ask Andrew show is the perfect platform to reach a wider audience and educate those who may not have easy access to legal information. Find out more at AskAndrew.ca.
FINANCE & LEGAL
JEFF KAHANE Founding Lawyer of Kahane Law Office
Kahane Law Office THE LAW FIRM WITH MORE THAN THEIR FAIR SHARE OF FRIENDLY FACES
EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, KNOWLEDGEABLE LAWYERS WHO CARE
and reasonable flat rates has allowed Kahane Law Office to blossom from a solo concentration in Real Estate Law to a fullservice law firm providing legal assistance in the areas of Real Estate Law, Civil and Commercial Litigation, Employment/
52 Summer/Fall 2018
Labour Law, Wills and Estates, Powers of Attorney, Corporate Services, Criminal Law, Family Law and Uncontested Divorces and Immigration Law in Calgary, AB. We apply our dedicated client approach to each case and are proud to offer low flat rate legal fees for the majority of our real estate services. Our friendly,
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
knowledgeable lawyers and staff take pride in our high customer satisfaction ratings. Kahane Law Office has claimed the status of being on Top of our competition because we consistently strive for excellence within our company and wish nothing less for yours. Continue reading for useful information for your business.
COMPANIES WITH MORE THAN ONE SHAREHOLDER NEED SHAREHOLDER AGREEMENTS! Shareholder agreements are contracts between two or more shareholders which govern the relationship between shareholders by defining the rights and obligations of each shareholder regarding the management of the corporation and the transfer of its shares. The following are eight reasons why a company should have a shareholders’ agreement:
1) PREVENTION OF LEGAL DISPUTES When a business relationship begins, they envision a long-term relationship of cooperation and trust. Unfortunately, disputes are bound to arise which can lead to litigation, that is time-consuming, expensive and harmful to a business. A shareholders’ agreement provides a mechanism and framework for shareholders of a corporation to effectively deal with any disputes that arise between the shareholders without proceeding to court.
2) RESTRICTIONS ON THE TRANSFER OF SHARE Shareholder agreements can prevent shares from being sold and transferred to individuals that are either unknown or have undesirable qualities for current shareholders. These restrictions allow existing shareholders to participate in new offerings and approve new or replace partners of the business that were never contemplated at beginning of the business relationship. One mechanism that is typically in place to protect the interests of both the selling shareholder and remaining shareholders is a “right of first refusal”. A right of first refusal allows a shareholder to sell their shares to a third party, but only if they first offer the same terms to existing shareholders.
3) RESTRICT THE POWER OF DIRECTORS Typically, business decisions of the corporation are left to the board of directors. In a shareholders’ agreement,
"
Shareholder agreements can protect the corporation by implementing clauses that protect the intellectual property of the corporation."
6) MAJORITY SHAREHOLDER PROTECTION
Voted Top Choice 20 18
adversely prejudiced by majority shareholders. Examples of rights include; a. A right to proportionate representation on the board; b. The ability to veto fundamental changes to a corporation; and c. The requirement of minority shareholder consent regarding any major decision of the corporation.
Real Estate Law Firm of 2018 in Calgary
shareholders can limit a director’s discretion. This mechanism provides shareholders of the corporation with greater control over the day to day operations of the corporation.
4) EXIT STRATEGY FOR SHAREHOLDERS Shareholders may want to exit a corporation for numerous reasons such as retirement, they want to cash out their investment, they simply no longer want to be involved with the corporation or they no longer see eye to eye with the remaining shareholder. A shareholders’ agreement can define the procedure of how a shareholder may exit a corporation. Examples include; a. Shotgun Clause: Allows a shareholder to offer to buy the shares of the other shareholder or to sell their own shares at a specific price. The non-offering shareholder elects either to buy or sell the shares. b. Put Option Clause: A shareholder can force the corporation or other shareholders to buy them out. c. Call Option Clause: The Corporation or shareholder can purchase the shares of a shareholder at any time or after the occurrence of an event.
When a majority shareholder wishes to sell his shares to a third party and exit the corporation, a third party may request that all the shares of the corporation be sold to complete the transaction. In order to provide the majority shareholder with an exit strategy, a shareholders’ agreement can provide the majority shareholder with a drag along right. It can require the minority shareholders to sell their shares to the buyer as well, allowing a majority shareholder to exit the corporation without a minority shareholder blocking the sale.
7) CONFIDENTIALLY, NONSOLICITATION OR NONCOMPETITION CLAUSE Shareholder agreements can protect the corporation by implementing clauses that protect the intellectual property of the corporation, prevent the solicitation of clients and employees by current and departing shareholders. Further, shareholder agreements can prevent departing shareholders from competing with the corporation.
8) POLICIES REGARDING DIVIDENDS Shareholder agreements can set out the specific terms as to when or if dividends will be issued. There are many shareholder disputes that arise from this decision. Further, so that all shareholders are treated evenly, regardless of the shareholder class shares they hold, the dividend policy can maintain fairness among all shareholders.
5) SHAREHOLDER AGREEMENTS PROTECT MINORITY SHAREHOLDER A Shareholders’ agreement can provide protection and rights to minority shareholders they may not otherwise have and are used to prevent them from being
(403) 225-8810 7309 Flint Road SE Calgary, AB kahanelaw.com
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 53
FINANCE & LEGAL
Claiming Long-Term Disability For Mental Illness WHEN SOMEONE IS DEALING with a mental illness, everyday chores can be a challenge and being effective at work can be even more difficult, if not impossible. In Canada, like many other western nations, increasingly more people are affected by mental illness and as a result, are unable to function in their jobs. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) reports that 20% of Canadians are personally affected by mental illness during their lifetime and about 8% of adults will experience major depression. This means that every Canadian will likely be affected by mental illness at some point in their lives, when a friend, family member, or colleague suffers from a condition such as depression, anxiety disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Some experts suggest that the reason for the change in the type of illnesses seen in the workplace relates to the nature of work and the pace of work. In particular, we have seen an increase in the level of stress in the workplace - a 2001 CMHA study found that 75% of Canadians feel stressed at least once a month and 43% feel very stressed a few times a week. Also, jobs are more sedentary and less physical for most Canadians. These circumstances have led to a reduction in the percentage of claims for back injuries seen by insurance companies and an increase in claims related to mental health problems. In fact, about 30% of disability claims, including short-term and long-term disability, are attributed to mental health illness (per “Benefit plans can help with mental illness, but many still afraid to use them”, Financial Post, July 24, 2013). A mental condition, such as depression, affects a person’s energy level, cognitive function, memory, emotional state, sleep patterns, and many other characteristics
that directly impact the ability to function at work. Depression drains a person’s energy and ability to think, and people in any walk of life and occupation can be impacted. If you have disability insurance, whether through your workplace or a private plan, you are entitled to long-term disability coverage if any illness or injury, including a mental condition, prevents you from performing your job. Many employers also offer programs or counselling for employees who suffer from mental illness, that are available even before the employee is off work. If you are struggling with a mental health condition, it’s a good idea to peruse your workplace benefits package to find out what’s covered and whether your employer provides any support or resources that you can make use of before things get worse. Unfortunately, stigmas about mental illness and the fear of being judged can prevent many people from seeking help and treatment, but sufferers need to remember that they are certainly not alone and once depression is diagnosed and treated, about 80% of sufferers are able to return to their normal activities. If a mental illness prevents you from doing your job, you may be eligible for disability benefits, just as you would if an injury or physical illness affects your ability to work. You can find out about your eligibility for long-term disability payments by talking to your disability insurance provider and/or checking the terms of your policy. As a rule, a person is eligible for LTD benefits in the first two years after they become disabled, if they cannot fulfill the duties of their current job. Two years after becoming disabled, a person is eligible if they are unable to fulfill the requirements of any job for which they are reasonably
NAINESH KOTAK Founder and Principal Lawyer of Kotak Personal Injury Law
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Injury Law Firm of 2018 in Mississauga
qualified, or could be qualified for, by way of education, training or experience. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that depression will be the 2nd most common cause of disability worldwide by 2020. Insurance companies now recognize that stress and mental illness take a significant toll on Canadian workers and companies. A Canadian insurer, Desjardins Life Insurance Company, has published “Mental Health: A Workplace Guide” to help employees understand how mental illness affects workers and the workplace, how to recognize mental illness in co-workers, and ways to support workers who are suffering from depression, anxiety and other conditions. Kotak Personal Injury Law/ Disability Lawyers Can Help You! 905-755-8900 • KotakLaw.com
DISCLAIMER: This article is intended to supply general information to the public. We make even,’ effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, as laws change quickly, the reader should always ensure the accuracy and applicability of such information with respect to their particular case. The information contained in this article cannot replace a thorough and complete review of the reader’s situation by competent legal counsel who has had an opportunity to review all of the facts.
54 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
LONG TERM DISABILITY & PERSONAL INJURY LAW
KOTAK
LAW.COM
FREE CONSULTATION
(905) 755-8900
FINANCE & LEGAL
“
TODD and FRED LITWINIUK lead the award winning team at the firm established by their parents.
What makes this award so special is that it is chosen by the most important judges – our clients.” – Fred Litwiniuk, Director of Business Development and Marketing
Litwiniuk & Co. ACHIEVING SUCCCESS THROUGH THEIR AWARD-WINNING TEAM. FOR THE FOURTH YEAR
in a row, Litwiniuk & Company is the Top Personal Injury Law Firm in Calgary. Thanks to the votes of hundreds of happy, satisfied clients, the firm has once again captured a coveted Top Choice Award. The Top Choice organization helps companies improve customer satisfaction, and gives consumers the power to make educated choices about where they choose to spend their hard-earned money. When a business wins a Top Choice Award, it is a sign to potential customers that the business truly cares about providing outstanding customer service. “What makes this award so special is that it is chosen by the most important judges – our clients,” says Fred Litwiniuk, Director of Business Development and Marketing. “We believe that we provide
56 Summer/Fall 2018
the best client service of any injury law firm in Alberta, and it’s wonderful to know that our clients feel the same way.”
TOP CHOICE AND CANADIAN LAWYER MAGAZINE TOP 10 Litwiniuk & Company has also made Canadian Lawyer’s list of the Top 10 Personal Injury Boutique Firms in Canada. Managing Partner Todd Litwiniuk attributes the firm’s success to the Litwiniuk team. “We know that we wouldn’t be a Top Choice or be in the Top 10 without our incredible team. The hard-working people at our firm make these awards possible. Not only are they providing high quality legal services, they are providing incredible client service every day.” Fred echoes his sentiments. “You build an exceptional firm one exceptional individual at
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
a time,” he says, “and that’s what we set out to do. I think we’ve got the best people in the industry on our team, and I think that clients can feel that difference. Our team is the reason we are the only Alberta firm on this list.”
CLIENT CARE, SERVICE, TRUST AND HARD WORK ARE FOUNDING PRINCIPLES Todd and Fred lead this venerable Calgary-based firm, established in 1976 by their parents Larry and Marianne. From humble beginnings, the brothers have grown Litwiniuk & Company to be Alberta’s largest and best-known personal injury firm, with two locations to serve clients across Alberta and Canada. Though the firm embraces leading-edge technology, it still adheres to these
simple, founding principles: client care, service, trust, and hard work. Litwiniuk & Company puts the personal in personal injury lawyers; community initiatives, charity work, volunteerism, and team culture are as important as doing excellent legal work. “We owe our longevity to our client-first attitude. It is a privilege to serve them, and there’s no way we would be here for over 40 years if we weren’t doing it right. Albertans are demanding, they have high standards, and when a business can’t meet those standards it won’t last. The Top Choice Award is another great way for us to see if we measure up. I’m honoured that, for the fourth year in a row, our clients are telling us that we do.” See our ad for locations and contact information.
FINANCE & LEGAL
MacLean Law STRATEGIES FOR WEALTH PRESERVATION WHEN SUPER BOOMERS DIVORCE. PEOPLE OVER 50, KNOWN as super boomers, now control most of the wealth in Canada. The middle-aged have made astronomical gains on real estate, businesses and stocks. A sad reality of this demographic is that many who are married or in a marriage-like relationship, will separate or divorce. Asset protection and preservation is key to maintaining lifestyle for both people. Furthermore, wealthy ex-spouses are attractive targets, so super boomers should know how to protect their assets if they enter a subsequent relationship.
JOINT WEALTH AND ASSETS When two wealthy spouses from a longterm union separate, chances are, most of the wealth was jointly acquired. Whether both spouses were breadwinners or one stayed at home, courts in BC accept that both roles are equally valuable, and in most cases, the family property is equally divided.
THE BC FAMILY LAW ACT* AND PROPERTY DIVISION IMPACTS: • spouses who receive gifts or inheritances during their relationship • re-partnering and bringing assets into a new relationship • spouses who want to help their children financially in the future • property division
58 Summer/Fall 2018
Since the BC Family Law Act was updated in 2013, all married spouses and couples in a marriage-like relationship for at least two years, equally share jointly acquired property except for the starting value of: • property acquired before or after the relationship, unrelated to jointly acquired property • gifts or inheritances to one spouse • damage awards and insurance proceeds (with some exceptions) • trust property a spouse has a potential interest in Although this property is excluded from equal sharing, increases in the value of the excluded property during the relationship is considered shared.
WHAT HAPPENS TO THE FAMILY BUSINESS UPON DIVORCE? Excluding the starting value of a company, stocks or real estate is a great start for super boomers looking to protect their wealth. Massive gains made on company ventures, stocks, and gains on real estate are often the result of market forces and smart money management by one spouse who brought them into the relationship. When a family business that one spouse brought into the relationship is involved in a marriage breakdown or
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
received by way of a gift or inheritance, things get even more emotional and sensitive. Business valuations are done using valuation dates at the start and end of the relationship. These valuations involve checking the accuracy of financial statements, valuing assets, checking personal benefits and any non-arm’s length salaries, assessing tax liabilities, the viability and profitability of the company, and dozens of other factors.
OFFSPRING INHERITANCES The financial future of children may also be at risk in second marriages with offspring from the super boomer’s first marriage facing a smaller share of the estate if a new relationship ends with the wealthier partner’s death. As a result, a well-crafted marriage agreement, coupled with a solid estate plan that may include a company succession plan, estate freezes and the setting up of trusts is a must for any wealthy super boomer who considers re-partnering. Lorne MacLean, Q.C. is one of Canada’s most experienced lawyers dedicated tohigh-net-worthh and complex family law disputes across Canada. *This article references specifics to the BC Family Law Act.
MacLean Law is one of Canada’s most highly regarded family law firms. An award winning firm qualified to secure your assets, shield your business and ensure your continued financial viability.
DIVORCE WEALTH & ASSET PROTECTION SPOUSAL/CHILD SUPPORT MARRIAGE AGREEMENTS CUSTODY ESTATE LITIGATION
20 18
1 877 602 9900 or www.macleanfamilylaw.ca
FINANCE & LEGAL
Noble Mortgages FINDING THE RIGHT MORTGAGE FOR YOU IS OUR BUSINESS.
AT NOBLE MORTGAGES, WE know that the real value of properties is represented by the dreams their future owners have. It is our job – a job we do with pride – to simplify that dream until our clients call it 'home'. From residential and commercial mortgages to debt consolidation, construction loans and second or third mortgages, we are here to provide results. Our success stems in strong work ethics and a deep commitment to our customers' needs. We believe that homes are about people and our client-centered approach is the secret to exceeding all expectations. Excellent customer service, responsive staff, and a hands-on approach to business makes us leaders in funding our clients' dreams of home ownership. The best thing about our job? We are fair and able to do the right thing at the right time. Honest, reliable, and never breaking a promise. We thrive because of our word and repeated business from a diverse range of communities all over Ontario - that is our real business card. Our primary expertise is to locate funding for mortgage financing. We know which lenders have the best rates so we can negotiate with multiple lenders at one time. What's more, we will take great pride in the service we provide and rely on referrals and your repeated business. We do not work for any specific lender, so we are not limited in the products that
60 Summer/Fall 2018
we can offer you. As full service mortgage professionals, we work closely with you and your lender as well as your real estate representative, lawyer, and appraiser to ensure that your transaction proceeds smoothly. In most cases, there is no cost to use the services of a mortgage professional as bank or lending institution takes care of fees. Our success as a Mortgage Brokerage relies on a number of personality traits like creativity; self-confidence and courage; community characteristics, such as social skills and work-related expertise like commitment to excellence and cooperation. We are able to recognize and understand our clients’ needs. In over a decade of working in the field of mortgage services, we managed to form an amazing team of professionals who go the extra mile to achieve outstanding results, every single time. From the first phone call to the minute our clients move in the last piece of furniture, we are there for our clients. Guided by their expectations, never at rest with the thought of being second best, Noble Mortgages is the way forward. Welcome to the future you envisioned, welcome to your new home! Finding the right mortgage for you is our business. At Noble Mortgages, we find the perfect mortgage for you at the best rate, which is suited for your unique situation.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Brokerage License #12446 416-241-2227 216 Chrislea Road, Suite 306, Woodbridge, ON L4L 8S5 www.noblemortgages.ca
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Mortgage Brokerage of 2018 in Toronto
20 18
NOBLE MORTGAGES INC. Brokerage License #12446
Office: 416-241-2227
|
Fax: 866-544-3707
WWW.NOBLEMORTGAGES.CA 216 Chrislea Road, Suite 306, Woodbridge, ON L4L 8S5
FOOD & DRINK
Antonino's Original Pizza THE BEST PIZZA IN TOWN OR YOUR MONEY BACK… EVERY PENNY! WHILE MOST BUSINESSES WOULD shy away from such a claim,
Antonino’s Original Pizza Inc. President, Joe Ciaravino, is so dedicated to the quality and excellence of his much-loved pizzerias that it isn’t something he’s afraid to tout. For more than half a century, Antonino’s original recipe has been winning the hearts—and palates—of thousands of loyal Windsor-Essex customers. In addition to winning hearts and palates, Antonino’s has also won several awards. In 2011, The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce awarded Antonino’s the much-coveted Business Excellence Award for Small Company of the Year. The pizzerias, which do not offer delivery (except for party orders of $60 or greater) were named “The Best Pick-up Palace for Foodies,” in 2013 by popular local publication BizX Magazine. This year, the 3 pizzeria—and growing—chain was honoured with the Top Choice Award, voted by the people of the Windsor-Essex. Antonino’s loyal and satisfied customers took the time to vote for them as the Top Pizzeria in Windsor of 2017, to thank them for their high-quality service and food. Winning the Top Choice Award is a testament to the skill, passion and vision of Antonino’s. With the survey englobing 28 cities and gathering information from over 998,000 voters, Antonino’s is honoured to come out on Top as a winner in this year’s survey. The Antonino’s story began in 1959, when Antonino ‘Tony’ Ciaravino, Joe’s father, opened the first pizzeria in South Windsor. His father’s popular, mouthwatering recipe became a rapid-fire hit. Joe’s Dad eventually sold his pizzeria— along with the recipes for the sauce and
62 Summer/Fall 2018
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Pizzeria of 2018 in Windsor
the dough—and, as a result, his recipe also became the standard for several other pizzerias that began appearing throughout the city. “Today, more than 30 pizzerias in the area can trace their roots back to my Dad’s original recipe,” says Ciaravino. In 1999, almost 20 years after his father’s passing, Joe, under the guidance of his mother Vita, opened his first pizzeria not far from where his father began, naming it in honour of his dad—one of Windsor’s pizza pioneers. With the outstanding success of Antonino’s on Howard Avenue, the business expanded in 2010, opening a second location on Manning Rd. in the Town of Tecumseh. A third location in the Town of LaSalle just celebrated it’s one year anniversary in May of 2017. Antonino Ciaravino’s standard of excellence has continued with his son who maintains an exacting dedication to using
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
only the finest ingredients in every pizza he and his staff (he proudly refers to them as "The A-Team") serves: Five Roses flour made from Canadian wheat for the dough; fresh packed vine-ripened tomatoes for the sauce; 100 percent whole milk mozzarella manufactured by local cheese maker Galati Cheese; specialty cheeses imported from Italy; and premium, centre-cut real bacon. Ciaravino and his A-Team’s enduring dedication to detail is reflected in the presentation and flavour of his food, which is why Antonino’s can proudly boast so many loyal customers, some of whom can easily be described as discriminating pizza connoisseurs. Antonino’s high take-out volume is indicative of the quality of their old-school menu offerings… pizza, salads, appetizers and authentic Italian desserts, so good… it’s worth the drive! And if you’re in the mood for something quick, pizza by the slice is always available. In a city like Windsor, where the pizza is famous and the pizzeria listings are long, Antonino’s may just be king.
See our ad for our locations or visit us online at originalpizza.ca
The Best Pizza in town or your money back… Every Penny! “Come taste the pizza generations have strived to perfect.”
South Windsor 4310 Howard Avenue (519) 969-1959
Tecumseh 1695 Manning Road (519) 979-9759
originalpizza.ca
Lasalle 6535 Malden Rd (519) 978-2500
FOOD & DRINK
Sweet Tooth or Savoury Craving? COME CHECK OUT THE BAKERY. VOTED TOP BAKERY OF 2018 IN KITCHENER/ WATERLOO. T H E B A K E RY ( BY C E F O O D EXPERIENCE) is a fun and unique indus-
trial building conveniently located along the Spur Line Trail, right next to Len’s Mill Store, 136 Moore Ave South. The Bakery carries a variety of options for everyone in the family, with all products made from scratch and on site! Dietary restrictions are very important to us at The Bakery as we all have loved ones with allergies and know the severity of a clean and orderly kitchen. Please do not be shy to talk to any of our team members as they are well knowledged in all products we offer, perks of making everything from scratch! We always carry a selection of Gluten free, vegan, keto, nut free and soy free products. Custom orders are also available as well as cakes and pies. Come check out the biggest selection of fresh and from scratch baked pastries and savouries in the city!! Cecelia Johnston, owner/head baker, graduated from Stratford Chef School and returned to her hometown of Waterloo to start her catering company Ce Food Experience 5 years ago. 2 Years later The Bakery opened their doors on a chilly January morning to a very hungry neighbourhood! We have been honoured to receive, in our first year open, The Reader’s Choice Award in KW for the favourite
64 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
place to buy your muffins and now a Top Choice Award. The endless opportunities for growth keep our passion and creativity alive! Whether you are looking for a large dessert platter or picking up a coffee and muffin on your way to work we have new chooses daily to keep you on your toes. Not only do we change things up, but we have a suggestion bin to allow for customers creative food suggestions to be shared. We have quite the social media presence and enjoy staying in touch with all our customers! Every morning check our facebook, instagram & Twitter for daily delicious posts, fresh bread choices of the day and upcoming event information. KW allows us the access to a lot of great local produce and ingredients. Thursdays are our go to St. Jacobs Farmers Market shopping adventures. This allows the selection to vary at The Bakery depending on what’s in season, what looked enticing and fresh as well as what the hot deals of the day were. Local breweries allow collaboration for unique beer breads and sweet treats (earl grey porter cupcakes!). We proudly support local businesses helping local businesses! Not to mention we also supply to local cafes & restaurants as well. Downtown? Pop on in Cafe Pyrus, vegan focused cafe, for a customer favourite “brookie’. Thirsty? Swing by The Falls Road Irish Pub and enjoy a delicious burger on our fresh potato buns! Check us out at "Local Renaissance" in Elmira for a house muffin and our sweet and savoury cookies. Do we have you drooling yet? Don’t be shy and come on by, Ce you soon!
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Bakery of 2018 in Kitchener/Waterloo
136 Moore Avenue S. Waterloo, On 519 635 5080 cefoodexperience.ca
CHEF ABOD CAFE & CATERING Savory Middle Eastern & Delicious Canadian Cuisine
ALL-OCCASION CATERING
3217 Kempt Rd. Halifax, NS
902-455-3881 www.chefabod.com
CHEFABOD
Tired of seeing the same food choices offered at every wedding and corporate event? Then why not spice things up a bit? Imagine your event being catered by one of Halifax’s top chefs! Chef Abod came to Canada 15 years ago after working as a Personal Chef for a Saudi Prince. He’s won several culinary awards for his work. Chef Abod will create a spectacular menu of intensely flavourful and succulent foods, from appetizers to desserts. Your guests can experience an assortment of traditional Middle Eastern and Canadian dishes. And as always, Chef Abod chooses locally-sourced fresh, healthy ingredients to expertly prepare your feast! So you've suddenly realized that you're not going to be able to afford that trip abroad anytime soon. Luckily, it's not hard to travel via your taste buds in Halifax! a direct flight to some of Halifax's best Middle Eastern fare — no passport required CHEF ABOD CAFE AND CATERING
Come visit us today SCARBOROUGH
ETOBICOKE
MISSISSAUGA
51 Lebovic Ave, Scarborough, ON M1L 4W1
1060 The Queensway, Etobicoke, ON M8Z 1P7
5165 Dixie Road, Mississauga L4W 4G1
info@dspotdessert.com
•
www.dspotdessert.com
Hidden among the romantic street lights of Elm St. in Toronto, you will find a quaint Italian fine-dining experience…
37 Elm St. Toronto, ON (416) 595-5001 • donatellorestaurant.ca
20 18
... your guests this holiday season & book your party at Dynasty Chinese Cuisine. Great food & attentive service in an elegant setting in Yorkville. Lunch & Dinner | Private Functions | Weddings | Catering | VIP Room
20 18
69 Yorkville Ave., Toronto (Bay/ Yorkville)
Tel. 416.923.3323 | dynastyyorkville.com
FOOD & DRINK
Healthy Creations BAKING UP SOMETHING SPECIAL SINCE 1994. IT HAS BEEN A huge blessing for us to be able to create products for people with food sensitivities, specifically gluten. Here is our story... Back in 1991 when our son was only 11 months old he got a throat infection and antibiotics were prescribed to treat the infection. After the treatment was complete the throat infection was gone but then he suffered from persistent loose stools. It was puzzling, as so many things can cause loose stools. We went through quite a series of tests and medications, for 2 and a half years, to try and fix this issue. In 1994 at the age of 3 and a half our son was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. 2 years later his youngest sister was diagnosed with the same disorder. Celiac Disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten(a protein found in wheat, barley and rye.) And so began my quest to create delicious and appealing gluten-free products. The commercial gluten free foods available at that time were not appealing to my children. Since they would not eat store-bought gluten-free foods I was determined to create products that would rival their gluten counterparts. Nobody should have to go "without" and I know how important it is to fit in, especially for children. They don't want to be different. After developing a few surprisingly good products, friends that I had met through our local support group asked me if I would consider making my products for others. I said "sure" and on that day Healthy Creations was born. This was back in 1998. So 20 years later here we are... We opened our first commercial establishment in 2009, our second in 2011 (in London) and our 3rd in 2016 (in Lakeshore). 11 years of product development in my basement kitchen/bakery really paid off as our business has grown steadily since. What is
68 Summer/Fall 2018
especially significant for my husband and I is that this is truly a family endeavour. He retired from Ford Motor Company in 2011 and took on a prominent role in this business. We have 12 employees, 3 of which are our children, a couple cousins, an aunt, some uncles, a niece, an in-law and 2 friends who we consider family. The greatest thing about having a business like ours is the joy we bring to people with the food we create. It is truly humbling when a customer breaks down with gratitude and tells us that we are lifesavers. It's a responsibility we take seriously. We are fortunate to be able to do what we do. When you love what you do, it isn't work, right? Well, in all honesty, it is a tremendous amount of work but it's totally worth it. We strive for consistently delicious products and hope the smiles of happy customers continue for a long time!
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
3 locations to serve you, see ad for details.
Gluten-free & ® Totally Delicious If you’ve been looking for gluten-free baked goods with rich, delicious flavour, then look no further. Healthy Creations bakes many products that are gluten-free and readily available for individual and wholesale customers.
Voted Top Choice 20 18
PROUDLY SERVING WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY, LONDON Windsor, On (226) 773-7881 333 Dougall Square
Lakeshore, On (519) 735-0090 33 Amy Croft Dr.
London, On (519) 472-0111 502 Springbank Dr
See what’s new and baking today at
healthy-creations.com
Bakery of 2018 in Windsor
FOOD & DRINK
La Sem Patisserie OVER HALF A CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE – SINCE 1963 Over half a century is a milestone by any means. Half a century of living is often celebrated with an elaborate party. Half a century of marriage is referred to as a “golden anniversary”. And half a century of running a successful business? That’s easy. It’s called excellence. La Sem Patisserie has been serving Mississauga and the GTA since 1963, an accomplishment that’s already worth noting. Even more noteworthy is the endless recognition and praise this authentic European style bakery has garnered by exceeding customer expectations time and time again. Their award winning cakes, pastries and other confectionery delights have made La Sem a staple in the community and one of the most popular spots for sweet treats in the city! Voted Top Cake Boutique in the City of Mississauga for the second year in a row, this family owned shop is only improving with age.
70 Summer/Fall 2018
Mimi Semeraro founded the original La Sem in Bari, Italy in 1930 and so the story began. A young Nicola Ventola was instantly hooked; a passion was born. Thirty-three years later and an ocean away, Nicola opened the La Sem patrons have come to know and love in Toronto in 1963. His goal has remained unchanged after all these years - to continue the legacy of La Sem and bring a true European style patisserie to the city. Celebrated for their delicious cakes, their award winning bakers and cake artists can make any event a memorable one with custom cakes available for any occasion. Using only the freshest, finest ingredients, the endless choices of flavours and fillings will leave customers wanting a bite of each one. The bakery is also happy to offer artisan bread, traditional Italian gelato and European cookies and pastries. Zeppole, a beloved Italian pastry topped with sugar and filled with a delicious vanilla custard, is a fan-favourite and available daily from mid-January to April. Their renowned cannolis are in demand year round and were voted as the best in the GTA by the Toronto Star. Their fresh cannoli shells are made in house, giving customers an unmatched taste of Italy in every bite. Part of what makes La Sem Patisserie so special is the dedicated client base they’ve amassed in over 50 years of service. Amidst the awards, testimonials and referrals, authenticity and excellent customer service is still at the heart of every
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
order, in every cake and in every scoop of gelato served. The bakery remains a unique symbol of European culture and cuisine without ever compromising the great service, delectable products and fantastic taste people can’t stop talking about.
2014-2016
2014 & 2016
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Cake Boutique of 2018 in Mississauga
PATISERRIE (905) 624-8888 1275 Eglinton Ave, East Mississauga info@lasemcakes.ca lasemcakes.ca
FOOD & DRINK
Anh Chang, Owner
Maki Maki Restaurant EDMONTON'S TOP CHOICE FOR SUSHI AND MORE
Maki Maki Japanese & Vietnamese Restaurant has hit another milestone in its business and has received the Top Choice Award for its fourth year in a row. Thanks to Maki Maki’s loyal customers and its great team of staff they are able to provide such great service as well as excellent presentations of food as well as unbelievable taste. The owner of Maki Maki is Anh Chang and she has dedicated her life to serving excellent food to her customers and bringing joy to her customers through excellent services. There have been numerous types of celebrations celebrated at Maki Maki such as Birthdays, Engagement Proposal, Wedding rehearsals, and graduations. For every occasion, Maki Maki is the right place to celebrate. Through the achievements of Anh Chang’s success with Maki Maki she is able to open up her
second business Volcano Restaurant. She is a prime example of successful women in business. Her expertise has been in food presentations as well as sourcing out some of the freshest ingredients. Some Roll’s that she has been known for are the Caterpillar Roll, Famous Dragon Eyes Roll, Déjà vu Roll, Mexican Roll, Oilers Roll, and the Dragon Roll. Maki Maki has the widest selection of Rolls in Edmonton due to its name Maki Maki meaning “Roll Roll”. Anh Chang has traveled the world and used her inspirations & experiences to bring to its customers some of the best food in Edmonton such as their flavorful Ramen, Beautifully Décor Sashimi. Once again Maki Maki would like to thank their customers for voting with Top Choice awards, without such loyal customers Maki Maki wouldn’t be here today with Top Choice Awards.
780-438-8298 8109 101 Street NW Edmonton, AB MakiEdmonton.com
72 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
MAKI
your way
to Edmonton’s
FAVOURITE
Sushi Restaurant 20 18
780-438-8298 MakiEdmonton.com 8109 101 Street NW, Edmonton, AB
Premium Your local
butcher shop
2313 Yonge Street Toronto, ON, M4P 2C6 4646 Heritage Hills Boulevard Mississauga, Ontario L5R 1N4 |
Premium Selection
|
Specialty Cuts
|
Himilayan Salt Wall
|
Custom Orders
Visit us today in-store or online at paramountbutchershop.com
|
Authentic Mexican Cuisine Come visit Victoria’s Top Choice Mexican Restaurant and experience the culture, people and homemade favouries from the regions of Ixtapa, Zihuatenejo, Guerrero in a comfortable environment. Sombrero optional!
778-433-1331 1205 Quadra St. Victoria, BC
latortilla.ca
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Mexican Restaurant of 2018 in Victoria
FOOD & DRINK
di sc ov e r t h e t rue
FLAVOUR o f t he Middl e East
paramountfinefoods.com
76 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen FROM HUMBLE BEGININGS TO INDUSTRY LEADER... WITHOUT COMPROMISE
2018
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS, a single Middle Eastern Restaurant in Mississauga, Ontario has now become the largest and fastest growing Middle Eastern halal food chain in North America. With over 40 locations in Canada alone, Paramount Fine Foods prides itself on creating authentic Lebanese food, using only the freshest ingredients to satisfy recipes that have been passed down for generations. Paramount has gone so far as to fly in renowned international chefs in order to deliver the finest take on Middle Eastern cuisine. As the largest Middle Eastern Halal restaurant chain in Canada, Paramount Fine Foods strives to make Middle Eastern food accessible to the masses while breaking the traditionally held perceptions of Middle Eastern cuisine. Each restaurant is decorated and laid out in such a way that patrons feel warm, comfortable, and welcome. Many locations even include a children’s playground. With newly added menu items like the Halloumi Baby Spinach Salad, Salmon and Rice, and Chicken and Zucchini Pizza, Paramount seeks to provide diners with a restored and memorable culinary experience.
Likewise, Paramount’s deep commitment to the Canadian values of kindness, generosity, and altruism set it apart from other restaurants and businesses. CEO Mohamad Fakih has made philanthropy a key part of Paramount’s culture and identity. His character is reflected through the brand in several ways, from charitable giving to lending his influence to a variety of causes. Mohammed most recently partnered with UNHCR Canada by challenging participating Paramount restaurant to raise funds in support of Rohinga families, who are caught in the world's fastest growing refugee crisis. Similarly, Paramount’s determination to uphold these values of giving back to Canadian communities remains unwavering. With the aroma of freshly baked bread in their wood-burning ovens, charcoal BBQ meats, and handmade sweets, Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen celebrates every occasion with great food that is generously served and joyfully prepared to bring family and friends together. Paramount brings a borderless experience of Middle Eastern food culture that is sure to please any guest, embracing every and all dietary preferences.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 77
FOOD & DRINK
20 18
The Maharaja TORONTO’S FIRST BOUTIQUE INDIAN RESTAURANT LOCATED IN THE HEART OF MISSISSAUGA ESTABLISHED IN 2016, THE word ‘Maharaja’ literally
means ‘Great King’, conjures up a vision of splendor and magnificence. Built as a tribute to the lifestyle and rich culinary legacy of Indian Royal Heritage. A unique dining experience that showcases India’s legacy of hospitality over hundreds of years.
INTERIORS This intimate and ornately designed restaurant is a journey back in time, with the interiors inspired by three Palaces of India – ‘The Hawa Mahal’, ‘Palace of Wind’, ‘The Rang Mahal’, ‘Palace of Colour’ and ‘The Sheesh Mahal’, ‘The Palace of Mirrors’ offers a unique setting within the cozy 85 seater restaurant. The walls are adorned with recreated original Indian Art by a local Mississauga artist, some embellished with gold leaf. From the Grand Crystal chandeliers to the velvet plush seating, the space radiates a nostalgic glow.
78 Summer/Fall 2018
THE CONCEPT Inspiration for ‘The Maharaja’ is drawn from an era, reminiscing over the Royal Grand Banquets and fanfare of the Yesteryear Kings, - ‘Mighty Mughals’ of Avadh, ‘Noble Nizams’ of Hyderabad and the ‘Magnificent Maharajas’ of Punjab and ‘Royal Rajputs’ of Rajputana, a collation of note worthy dishes from the kitchens of the Golden Era. The storybook menu is divided into four regional cuisines in India, which bear influences from various regions including Central Asia and Persia.
THE CUISINE, SERVICE AND PRESENTATION Fr o m d i s h e s l i ke t h e ‘Sikandari Raan’- A baby lamb leg slow cooked overnight, served on a bed of fragrant Basmati Rice- a meal actually quoted in the Books of history as the favorite of ‘Alexander the Great’ or the ‘Awadhi Gilwati Ka Kebab’ - which is a mouth
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
melting lamb kebab, pounded to silky smoothness bursting with flavors of the finest spices - made for a toothless Nawab (Emperor), each of the dishes tells a tale of culinary passion of the yesteryears, carefully culminated and presented in a full flair silver service including the traditional bowl of lemon water to clean your fingers after your meal. Each of the menu items are served in copper bowls and unique copper tabletop grills that bring out the unique experience at the restaurant. Months of planning and research during the initiation phase revealed recipes dating back during the time of the Maharaja’s with traditional preparation methods. Wherever possible key ingredients are imported to be able to hone the authentic flavors in these dishes and maintain the authenticity in the recipes. Yellow Chili powder is imported from Agra, Saffron from Shiraz, Cinnamon from Yemen and Pepper from Kerala.
THE BAR The elegantly lit bar located in the center of the restaurant, made of a single piece of hand crafted luminescent honeycomb onyx from Pakistan, has one of the finest collection of
single malts, blended scotch and premium beverages on offer, paired with a hand picked wine list that partner beautifully with the carefully curated menu items.
THE TEAM Since its inception early Feb 2016, the family owned restaurant has won numerous awards including the winner of the ‘Top Choice Awards’ for two consecutive years in a row and have been voted ‘The Best Indian Restaurant’. The owners, Jehangir Khan along with his wife Sheryl Serrao and father Kekky Khan personally manage every aspect from service to the daily operations. Executive Chef Praveen Chilkuri, hails from ITC Sheraton New Delhi, and has also worked as an Executive Chef at The Marriot in Toronto, heads the team who put together this amazing dining experience. For those looking for a truly unique and memorable dining experience, ‘The Maharaja’ is a must visit! 4646 Heritage Hills Blvd., Mississauga, ON 905.507.2444 themaharaja.ca
Boutique Indian Restaurant A tribute to the lifestyle & rich culinary legacy of Indian Royal Heritage. An authentic dining experience reflecting a riot of colors, flavours & tastes of the golden era.
4646 Heritage Hills Blvd | Mississauga, ON L5R 1Y3 | 905.507.2444 | 905.507.2440 | themaharaja.ca TheMaharajaCA | TheMaharaja_CA | TheMaharaja_CA | #TheMaharajaCA All meats served are Halal. We accept reservations for private parties and events.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Allure Body Bar WELL-RENOWNED WAXING SERVICES… WITH CHARACTER. Allure Body Bar, voted Top Wax Bar of 2018 in Toronto, is well known for its waxing services offered to customers across the GTA. Owners Frank and Ala’a Abbassi opened the first location in Danforth in 2012, and have since opened new locations in Newmarket and most recently Vaughan. Allure Body Bar offers waxing and skin lightening services to all genders. Ho m e t o t h e f a m o u s 8 -m i nu t e Quickzillian Brazilian Wax, the wax bar is known for Ala’a’s unique technique of waxing that makes it as painless, fast and efficient as possible. Ala’a ensures her techniques are taught to employees by offering further in-house training for various hair textures, growth patterns and with hair anatomy. Allure Body Bar’s dedicated and experienced wax specialists are available to make the experience as comfortable and relaxing as possible. The wax bar’s services are designed to help customers look and feel their very best, and they believe that everyone should have access to self-care services and love the skin they’re in. As a non-judgmental space that offers waxing and skin lightening to everybody, Allure Body Bar focuses on making all services inclusive for all. They like to talk about things others might be shy from such as hormonal discolouration which is a very common topic. At Allure body bar since body confidence is so important they offer a skin lightening treatment for hormonal discolouration. There are many aspects of the environment
80 Summer/Fall 2018
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Wax Bar of 2018 in Toronto
and internal body changes that make a lot of men and women get inner thigh, knees, elbows, bikini and anal area to be discoloured. Allure body bar offers a treatment that does not have any harsh chemicals in them to help fade the discolouration away and bring as much of the skins natural pigment back. This is a very popular service for them that has helped boost confidence of their clients.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
They believe in being the leaders and maintaining professional standards at all times in the industry. “Waxing hurts... it’s not a massage but we do our best to make it hurt less.” Says Ala’a. Allure body bar has had much love by the press and awards in the past as well. Clients love their fun approach to tackling body hair. No wonder they say “You grow it, we mow it. “ It is really important for Allure body bar to make it a unisex friendly environment. Every aspect and service provided at Allure body bar was made to be unisex gender friendly. So guys there is no need to feel shy or embarrassed anymore. Additional services offered at Allure Body Bar include the Manzilian Wax, Skin Lightening Services such as Anal and Vaginal Bleaching, Itsy Bitsy Bikini Wax, Classic Bikini Wax, Underarm Wax, Lip Wax, Eyebrow Wax, and more. To find out more about Allure Body Bar and the services it offers, visit allurebodybar.com or see our ad for details.
you grow it, we mow it!
Waxologist
Comfortable
Save
Experience
Sensitive
There will be no LOVE without a GLOVE from our waxologist.
A judgement-free space aimed to make everyone comfortable.
Affordability is important we love to help you save.
When it come to waxing, there should be no experiments.
All of our products are excellent for sensitive skin.
Newmarket 58 Davis Dr. 905-235-7861
Toronto 735 Danforth Ave 416-461-2400
Vaughan 3255 Rutherford Rd. Unit J21 905-597-7862
allurebodybar.com 20 18
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Alpha Physiotherapy BRAMPTON'S TOP CHOICE FOR CARE AND RECOVERY ALPHA PHYSIOTHERAPY AND REHABILITATION CENTRE was estab-
lished in 2014 by our clinic director, Parmeet Risum, with the principle to always prioritize patient care. We believe in addition to technical quality and clinical care the patient’s recovery process should be compassionate and caring. Alpha Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre treats a wide variety of conditions including but not limited to sports injuries, motor vehicle accident injuries. Our clinic houses an experienced team of experts including Chiropractors,
82 Summer/Fall 2018
Registered Physiotherapists, Registered Massage Therapists, Chiropodists, and Acupuncturists. Our head registered physiotherapist, Vimarshiny Sundaresan (Vimi), comes highly recommended by all our patients. She ensures that she and our staff go for continual training and education to best practices and optimal services are delivered to our clients. Our team of specialist consults to provide a multi-disciplinary approach to patient care, leading to the best overall treatment plan for our patients.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
By creating a detailed treatment plan that is patient-specific, we are actively increasing the potential for a quick recovery and long-term prevention. At Alpha Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre, we take pride in our multidisciplinary approach to customize your treatment plan in accordance with your individual needs. Alpha Physio uses numerous diagnostic tools that assist our healthcare team to assess and analyze your medical condition. Alpha Physio has high-quality medical gradient compression stockings and is pleased to offer it to all patients in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. 100% of the materials are made in North America and all of our products meet the quality and medical accuracy standards. Whether it’s mild, moderate or firm support that you require, we have got you covered. At all levels, the concept is set to softly massage the leg muscles throughout the day, using their advanced technologies the stockings help release moisture quickly from the skin to keep you feeling cool and relaxed. Custom orthotics are created to support the specific needs of your feet. They assist in restoring balance and alignment in your body by identifying the root cause of your unhappiness: foot function.We work together to correct foot abnormalities by using custom orthotics as they help reduce the issues that cause pressure points to add on muscle strain, which in turn affects your ankles, knees, hips and spine. Over a period of time, the custom orthotics will correct the biomechanics of your feet and relieve the pain and tired feeling you have, allowing you to enjoy your day to day activities once again. 4 locations to serve you, see our ad for details.
Providing personalized treatment for each individual. Voted Top Physiotherapy Clinic
of 2018 in Brampton 20 18
WSIB
Physiotherapy
Laser Therapy
MVA
Chiropractic
Tens Machine
EHC
Custom Orthotics
Massage Therapy
Slip and Fall
Orthopedic Shoes
Acupuncture
Private
Custom Braces
Compression Stockings
BRAMPTON
ETOBICOKE
MILTON
MISSISSAUGA
905-789-0123 2955 Sandalwood Pky E Unit 17
416-744-4000 900 Albion Rd Unit A-2
905-864-9141 875 Main St E Unit 6
905-306-8181 777 Dundas St W
alphaphysio.ca
HEALTH & BEAUTY
The Creditview Dental team
Creditview Dental TOP DENTAL CLINIC IN MISSISSAUGA PROFESSIONALISM, EXPERTISE, CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY, and
truly caring for and listening to each and every one of their patients, are the reasons why Creditview Dental has been chosen to be Mississauga’s Top Dental Office three years in a row. Their state-of-the-art clinic was established in 1996 and has just undergone a comprehensive expansion and renovation, providing luxurious comfort in a relaxing spa-like environment, including waterfalls and massaging dental chairs. Their philosophy and unique approach to dentistry is based on the 3 pillars of prevention and education, restoration and esthetics, and focusing on the connection between oral health and overall general health. The full spectrum of dental services is provided by a dedicated and cohesive team of highly trained professionals who strive
84 Summer/Fall 2018
every day to make each patient’s dental appointment an enjoyable and relaxing experience. DR. KAPLANSKY
graduated from McGill University Dental School in 1981 in General Dentistry and went on to complete a post graduate residency program at Sir Mortimer Davis Hospital in Montreal. He has had extensive training and experience in Cosmetic Dental Procedures, Placement of Dental Implants, Oral Surgery, Periodontal Surgery, Root Canal Therapy, Therapeutic Botox Treatment for TMJ Disease, and the use of Soft Tissue Lasers. He has a Fellowship from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists in the Placement of Dental Implants, and is a P r e fe r r e d P r o v i d e r o f I n v i s a l i g n Orthodontics. “We are honoured to have been given this prestigious award”, says Dr. Kaplansky. “We put our education, experience, passion, and compassion into our everyday practice, in order to give our patients the very best care. Thank you for this recognition. “
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
D R . PA R N E E T Y
comes from a family of doctors and surgeons that have a long tradition of serving people in the field of education and medicine. With more than a decade long experience in the dental field, she brings with her a unique perspective to the dental practice. After graduating from dental school in India in 1997 with both the gold medal and the best graduate awards, she maintained a very busy general practice serving the community. Her quest for excellence and knowledge soon brought her to Canada where she completed DDS as a General Dentist with honors from the University of Toronto. She truly believes that learning is a lifelong experience and she loves her daily interaction with all of her patients.
905 926-4929 6085 Creditview Rd. Mississauga reception@creditviewdental.com creditviewdental.com
BEAUTIFUL SKIN STARTS HERE.
ANITA KRAWIEC founder
(519) 571-1010 ANITASKINCARESPA.CA 430 THE BOARDWALK SUITE 401 WATERLOO, ON
20 18
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Want Celebrity Lips? Think Again! WHY DR. JONATHAN LEE WON’T GIVE YOU ANGELINA JOLIE LIPS ARE YOU THE TYPE of person who brings reference photos of celebrities to a hair appointment? Your hairdresser probably loves you, but hopefully they’re setting expectations so you’re not expecting to come out looking identical to that celebrity. They’ll work with you to give you something you love, but they’ll also be working with what is realistic for your hair. Just like going to your hairdresser, it’s great to have a reference point for the results you’d love to achieve with your cosmetic surgery. And just like your hair, there are certain considerations when it comes to replicating the looks of celebrities like Kylie Jenner or Angelina Jolie. Dr. Jonathan Lee at The Calgary Institute of Plastic Surgery takes an individualized approach with his patients to ensure they’re getting the procedures and adjustments that will work to provide a natural and rested look. He says you should try to pinpoint what it is about a celebrity’s face that you like. Is it her lips? Do you like her jaw structure? “If you actually look at Angelina Jolie’s lips, they work on her face because she has a very wide jawline,” Dr. Lee says. “So, proportionality, her lips fit on her face, but If you were to put them on someone else’s face with a smaller jawline, it would look ridiculous.” The approach at the Calgary Institute of Plastic Surgery is to optimize the features you are hoping to enhance while remaining true to the proportions of your face or
86 Summer/Fall 2018
body. “We work towards the Golden Ratio, or Phi, that is used in architecture but also fits in beautiful human faces, as well,” says Dr. Lee. By optimizing ratios so they approximate Phi, facial proportions can then be optimized. Dr. Lee says he sees certain fads and trends that are driven by celebrity culture and it can be dangerous to get caught up in those. “What looks good today might not look good tomorrow. I try to choose a style that’s timeless, that’s classic,” he says. “For instance, when it comes to breast augmentation, I always tell my patients, they want a breast implant size that they can wear now, that they can wear 40 years from now and it will still look great.” When advising patients on the best approach to achieving their goals, Dr. Lee says he would rather create that natural, rested look rather than something that’s overexaggerated. “If someone is requesting to have procedures done that would not be in their best interests, where they think it looks great, but I think it would look odd
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
or unnatural, I tell them I don’t think I can deliver what they’re asking for. “I probably turn down more people than we accept sometimes,” Dr. Lee says. “We’re not interested in creating something that’s disproportionate.” Rather than promoting unnatural aesthetic goals, Dr. Lee says the primary job of the Calgary Plastic Surgery is education. “We never want to pressure someone to make a decision or make them feel as if they should buy something.” He says it’s dangerous for people to feel pressured to choose one option because that is a clinic’s only available option. “If a patient is looking for perfection, we’re not necessarily the place to go,” Dr. Lee says. “We try to approach symmetry, we try to approach ideal proportions. Part of looking natural is imperfection and there’s a beauty to that.” To book your consulation call us at (403) 286-4263 or visit calgarysurgery.com
Navigate your aesthetic goals with expert advice from Dr. Jonathan Lee Boost self-confidence and feel more comfortable in your body with a breast augmentation tailored to your specific goals
Dr. Jonathan P. Lee MD, FRCSC
Book a consultation to learn about the latest surgical and non-surgical solutions available and our complimentary luxury service upgrades. (403) 286-4263 | calgarysurgery.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
External Affairs Medical Spa THANK YOU FOR VOTING US TOP MEDICAL SPA OF 2018! From Waxing to Laser Hair Removal, Chemical Peels to Mixtos, Cosmetic Injections to Vampire Facials, and BHRT to CoolSculpting, External Affairs will take care of any and all of your Esthetic and Regenerative Medicine Needs. Perhaps what sets EA apart is their dedication to their client's safety and care. Known for their slogan "Helping People, Making Friends, Having Fun", External Affairs' culture is embedded in this. They ensure their clients know and follow their patient's rights. They care for and create a comfortable environment for their patients. On top of that, whether you enter their building happy, sad, tired, or glum, you will always leave smiling. A lot has changed in the medical spa industry, External Affairs was one of the innovators of Laser Hair Removal in Edmonton and after that Neuromodulator injections (Botox®/Dysport®). While popularity in cosmetic services continues to increase, what sets External Affairs apart from the competition is their continued dedication to training their staff, their fierce effort in providing the highest standards of treatment and the hyper-focus they place on patient care. "Patient safety is the most important thing to us, so whether you see us, you see your dentist or you go somewhere else, we like patients to understand their rights," says Becky Wilkins. External Affairs employs a full-time Medical Director, Dr. Robert Briggs, who has spent years studying hormone health as well as female and male sexual health. The Vice President of External Affairs and Clinical Director, Becky Wilkins is the Galderma trainer for Western Canada. After being in the business for 23 years,
88 Summer/Fall 2018
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Medical Spa of 2018 in Edmonton
there is a lot they've learned and mastered in the process. If you're unsure about what your rights are as a patient, download External Affairs' free Guideline to Safe Cosmetic Injections by visiting: externalaffairs.ca/a-guidelinefor-safe-cosmetic-injections/.
St. Albert, AB Edmonton, AB 8 Mission Avenue 13303 127 St. NW 780-459-5520 780-455-2754
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
externalaffairs.ca
"
We are above and beyond honoured to be voted Top Medical Spa! Thank you to our lovely clients, without the support from each and every one of you this wouldn't have been possible. We are thrilled to be a part of the Edmonton and St. Albert community for the past 23 years!" – Becky Wilkins, Vice President, and Clinical Director.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
European Massage and Physiotherapy Clinic A FAMILY RUN CLINIC THAT HAS BEEN HELPING THE COMMUNITY FOR ALMOST 25 YEARS ESTABLISHED IN 1993, EUROPEAN
Massage and Physiotherapy Center is a family run clinic that has been helping the community for almost 25 years. Our Clinic has been focused on car accidents, workrelated injuries, and sports injuries and rehabilitation. Highly trained and experienced staff help patients recover quickly from complicated injuries and enable them to return to a normal life. We use methods that allow for one on one manual therapy and provide sophisticated equipment including a decompression table, shockwave therapy, and cold laser therapy. The decompression table is equipped with a sophisticated computer to enable the treatment of debilitating back pain caused by a bulging disc. Shockwave therapy is used to treat degenerative soft tissue disorders like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis and has been shown to be 80% effective. Cold, low power laser therapy is effective in treating many painful conditions by reducing
90 Summer/Fall 2018
swelling and inflammation including swollen ankle and knee sprain. Local doctors recommend our clinic and our services are accepted by most insurance plans. For injuries and chronic pain, schedule a 20-minute consultation with our experienced physiotherapists. Treatment from our well-trained massage therapists can help if you are stressed, have chronic headaches, or have trouble sleeping. We also help people who have chronic pain due to office work and sedentary lifestyles. A combination of therapeutic massage and a functional physiotherapy program as prescribed by our therapists will provide relief. If you have foot pain, our seasoned chiropractor can provide a computerized foot scan and gait analysis to prescribe custom orthotics if necessary. Properly designed orthotics can prevent or help with foot, knee, hip, and back pain. In the United States, there are 250,000 hip replacement surgeries done every year. Hip arthritis initially starts with soft tissue
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
stiffness and pain which, if left untreated, leads to irreversible damage. Many of these surgeries could have been prevented if they were caught early and were treated with proper physiotherapy. As the old adage says, prevention is better than cure. To successfully treat hip dysfunction, physiotherapy treatment must begin within two weeks rather than after years following the onset of pain. Surgery is an invasive last resort that proper physiotherapy can help avoid. We also ensure that you are able to continue and maintain your physiotherapy treatment at home by making it easy to obtain simple equipment like foam rollers, exercise balls, and TheraBands through our clinic. For many years, EMPC has sponsored the training of our physical therapists. This year, we are proud to announce that one of our physiotherapists, Amiras Ghori, participated in a workshop with a top specialist researching and treating spinal injuries, Professor Stuart McGill, from Waterloo University. We believe that never-ending improvement and education is the key to our success. Our son made our clinic hitech. Clients can now book, confirm, and reschedule their visits online at www.medmassage.com. We would like to thank our wonderful patients for referring their friends and family to our clinic as well as for voting for us in the Top Choice Awards competition. It is with your confidence in us and with your votes that we have won this award.
HAVE CHRONIC BACK PAIN? YOU MAY SUFFER FROM A SLIPPED (BULGING) DISC Most common symptom of slipped disc is back pain and numbness that radiates to buttock or leg, most commonly on one side.
WE BRING HAPPINESS TO LIFE AGAIN
If you suffer from symptoms described above, there is a good chance that you have a slipped disc. Our clinic is focused on spinal disorder therapy. We have sophisticated equipment including a decompression table used to treat bulging neck and lower back discs. Our physiotherapists participate in workshops with the top specialists researching and treating spinal injuries like Professor Stuart McGill, from Waterloo University.
Book a free 20 min consultation with our Physiotherapists to see if our clinic can help. Offer expires October 09, 2018.
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Physiotherapy Clinic of 2018 in Mississauga
905-270-5553 • 1140 Burnhamthorpe Rd W (Unit 123) Mississauga, ON medmassage.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Function Studios YOUR TOP CHOICE FOR FITNESS IN NEWMARKET & AURORA. FUNCTION STUDIOS IS THE only Multi-Disciplinary fitness studio serving Newmarket, Aurora and the surrounding areas. We specialize in classes for ALL women at any age and fitness level! Function has 3 studio’s and a fully equipped gym floor, change room with showers and a daycare. Our class schedule offers approx 140 classes per week! Function’s Main Studio offers a huge variety of classes such as FIST, XROW, BATTLEROPE BOOTCAMP, Pilates Mat, DRILLS, Barre, FIGHTCLUB, Core, Function Strength, Zumba, Super Sets, Full Body Conditioning, TABATA and more. Our Bike Studio offers an advanced 45 min high- intensity class where our instructors will coach you to reach your personal best. We also offer a 30 min beginner class and of course our famous SIVER RIDERS CLASS !! SILVER RIDERS is a set of 20-minute classes designed for our Active Aging Program. This class is for ladies 60 years plus, therefore the intensity and music are lower. We have also ensure
92 Summer/Fall 2018
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
that the music for these classes is also age appropriate. Our beautiful Yoga Studio offers the four elements of energy and an amazing team of Yoga teachers. We have found over the years that to get great Yoga classes ladies would need to have 2 memberships one for fitness and one for Yoga. Another one of our specialities is Pilates. Pilates sets your body up for success. Our results-driven program offers over 25 classes per week. Reformer will condition your whole body. Owner Kelly Punzo has added a contemporary twist to classically focused classes and offers classes for all fitness levels. we are also very proud to be the only facility to offer a full Active Aging Program. Function Studios has a large selection of workouts specifically designed for ladies 60 years and up, taking with consideration joints, backs, music, etc. One of our greatest compliments is how friendly and supportive the environment is here at Function. We hope you will come to try a class and join our family soon!
YOU DESERVE MORE THAN THE SAME OLD SWEATY GRIND
Visit Function Studios to experience our innovative programming and a team comprised of highly energetic, motivating fitness instructors and personal trainers who are experienced, well trained, and carry only the highest levels of certifications.
Voted Top Fitness Club in Aurora/ Newmarket
Specializing in YOGA, STOTT Pilates, BIKE, MMA, Rowing, Barre, Dance and much more‌
16655 Yonge Street, Unit 202 Newmarket, On 905-953-9392 • functionstudiosinc.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Meet Gordana Tirnanic THE VISIONARY BEHIND ICI PARIS SKIN CARE CLINIC & SPA – TOP BEAUTY SPA IN TORONTO 2 YEARS IN A ROW. The first thing you will notice when you meet Gordana Tirnanic, co-owner of Ici Paris Skin Care Clinic & Spa, is that her skin is flawless. But it was not always that way. Q: What led you towards a career in the aesthetics? A: What got me into aesthetics was my own skin issue. I had severe acne as a teenager. Growing up in Serbia (former Yugoslavia), there were limited skincare options, so I had to take matters into my own hands. I used to go to the drugstore and buy things like salicylic acid and mix it with lemon and other natural ingredients to make a mask to work on my scars and acne. Q: Was Ici Paris your destiny? A: I studied aesthetics in college and arrived in Canada as a European-trained practitioner in 1982. Actually, my first home was around the corner from Ici Paris that is how I discovered this gem. I used to go there for facials and pedicures before the original owner hired me as an aesthetician. Then when she wanted to retire in 1992, I decided to buy the business so I could help others with their skin issues. And it paid off – thanks to my team’s hard work, Ici Paris earned the Top Choice Award for Best Beauty
94 Summer/Fall 2018
Spa two years in a row plus an Industry award, one of Top 25 Spas in Canada. It is my passion to work with clients and to help them achieve the best results. Results are what drive me. So, yes, Ici Paris was my destiny and I guess I was its. Q: What is your favourite thing about the business? A: Well that is simple, my aestheticians. My team is my pride and joy. They are the ones I can truly rely on. I know they are true professionals and passionate about their work, same as I am. As the backbone of Ici Paris, they are involved in client consultation and satisfaction. From the moment you walk in our staff goes above and beyond what is expected – that is the core of our success for over 42 years. I am proud of my team. Q: You have been in the beauty industry for many years. Can you share with us, how you manage to stay on top? A: Finding the way to meet our clients’ expectations and keeping up with the industry is crucial. By having the knowledge and experience of how to give the best European Facials and utilizing the synergistic effects of various non-invasive technologies we show our clients how to take their skin to the next level.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Q: What is Ici Paris known for? A: We are known for our holistic philosophy; a belief where to treat the skin you have to treat it inside and out. During the facial, the staff will go over this in detail, including how to support the skin with proper nutrition. Ici Paris feels obligated not just to clean the skin, but also to help clients with an effective homecare routine that will generate optimum results. Q: What is your favourite anti-aging treatment at the moment? A: I would rather use the word pro-aging, which is dedicated to the healthy aging. After all, aging cannot be stopped, at least not yet. Our
signature Power Facial--latest in medi-facial technology, is currently my favourite. By combining laser, radio frequency, ultrasound devices and other technologies, we realized you get longer lasting results while slowing down the aging process. It utilizes the synergistic effects of 5 different non-invasive technologies to give an instant youthful glow, tighter pores and firmer brighter skin. I invite everyone to try it!
416.461.1774 370 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, On iciparis.ca
20 18
VAUGHAN 2-3611 Major Mackenzie Dr. 905 553 7778 TORONTO 6-2085 Lawrence Ave. E 416 901 7778
TASIOSORTHO.COM
HEALTH & BEAUTY
MR. HUSSAM IKKAWI Owner and Founder of Khalil Barbershop
Khalil Barbershop A LEGACY OF SUCCESS SINCE 1990 Nobody ever forgets his or her first impression of you. With that being said, your physical appearance is the first impression you will ever make. For a man, facial hair makes all the difference whether it’s the eyebrows, beard and obviously- the hairstyle! Khalil Barbershop takes pride in providing the utmost customer care and making sure that every client sitting in the chair walks out feeling confident and happy. The barbershop’s owner, Mr. Hussam Ikkawi- commonly known as Sam, embraces this confidence by keeping up with all the new trends in hairstyling, while continuously allowing himself and his employees to learn and advance their skills by going to hair shows frequently. Hussam Ikkawi’s success, which won him the Top Choice Award for the Top Barbershop in Ottawa, is founded on the pleasure he takes in his work. In his eyes, Hairstyling and Barbering is an art. Every client leaves as a masterpiece, which makes
96 Summer/Fall 2018
the team at Khalil Barbershop artists. The barbershop staff provides a consultation with each and every client prior to making any changes to establish trust. Through verbal communication, a discussion arises of what the client desires and the technicalities that are determined by the shape of the head and face, and the type of hair being dealt with. Hussam first learned to barber through the teaching of his father and eldest brother in Beirut, Lebanon where his father, Khalil Ikkawi ran his barbershop. The family business flourished in the area, which allowed them to expand the business and open another location on the other side of the city to keep up with the flow of customers. In 1987, the family moved to Canada where Hussam decided to keep the family business alive by establishing Khalil Barbershop in 1990 in honour of his father. Aside from work ethic, the foundation of Khalil Barbershop is ultimately built
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
on the employees and the loyal clientele. Hussam takes more pride in his employees than he does himself because a business cannot solely depend on one man. It is crucial when employing a team that each member is not only skilled enough but are also as driven and exemplify the principle values of individual integrity to reflect and share too and with the team. Hussam pays forward his appreciation to the regular guest that confide in the barbershop’s work. Hussam hosts the barbershop as he would host guests into his home by offering beverages, keeping them entertained through casual conversation and providing professional personal care to each and everyone of his clients. Hussam would like to thank Top Choice Award for the acknowledgement of his hard work and team’s effort into developing Khalil Barbershop to what it has become today. With every year that goes by, Khalil Barbershop increases in terms of numbers and the satisfied customers leaving the owner and employees amazed at the result of their well-earned achievements and success! See our ad for contact information.
PROFESSIONAL
BARBERS MEETING YOUR
DESIRES FROM EVERY
ANGLE (613) 723-7686
1430 Prince of Wales Dr. Ottawa, On
khalilbarbershop.com
20 18
VOTED TOP BARBER SHOP OF 2018 IN OTTAWA
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Skinsational CELEBRATING 30 YEARS AS BARRIE'S GO-TO SKIN CARE SPECIALIST From the friendly welcome that clients get when they walk in the door, to the relaxing and rejuvenating pampering they receive, Skinsational has become a regular retreat for over 30 years to many in the Barrie and surrounding area. While Skinsational is a full-service aesthetic salon offering everything from manicures and pedicures to body treatments, waxing, electrolysis and therapeutic massage, its speciality is skin care solutions. Skinsational started as a small 525 square foot day spa with only 2 staff in 1988 and has grown to 3000 square feet and 14 staff. Many of the regular clientele have been coming since the start. They continue to recommend their family and friends for the professional and caring ambience. Growing up in a small hamlet outside of Owen Sound, Darlene Price didn’t have many options when it came to taking care of the acne problems she grew up with. There were no spas and only one dermatologist in the area. She started her pursuit to help herself and others suffering the same affliction. Darlene attended Gina’s School of Aesthetics and Electrolysis in Waterloo and found a love of learning many facial techniques and products available. Her journey
98 Summer/Fall 2018
started here, but she and her team continue their education on a regular basis to bring the latest in facial technology to their clients. Skin care solutions are their passion. From customizing treatments in microdermabrasion, lymphatic drainage and peels to anti-aging solutions like radio frequency facials, muscle toning and galvanic penetration of customized skin care products, they aspire to find enduring results for everyone. Clients that initially came in when they were young with acne have now moved into treatments for anti-aging. Skincare is a journey and prevention is the best option. Darlene Price likes to compare it to going to the dentist. She says” You can go to the dentist every six months, but if you don’t brush and floss in between, you are not going to get the results you want.” It is the same with skin care. Facials are fabulous and give intense results, but for long lasting results, your aesthetician needs to prescribe the best home care products for your needs. Darlene and her spa manager Colette Malcolm are headed to Paris to continue their education in June. Skinsational’s main skin care line, Guinot, is manufactured there and they will be attending intense
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Darlene Price, Owner
training on new techniques, products and aesthetic machines they offer. Skinsational is very proud to have received its very first Top Choice Award. They have, since the inception of the Barrie’s Reader’s Choice 18 years ago, received at least one and more often multiple awards each year. The Top Choice has added a new dimension to solidifying their reputation as Barrie’s premier day spa.
705-721-5800 65 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie, On skinsational.ca
Since 2010, Peace of Mind Massage has been dedicated to your well being – physically, emotionally, mentally, & spiritually. Voted Top Choice 20 18
Massage Therapist of 2018 in Calgary
#740 – 1110 Panatella Blvd NW, Calgary 403.452.7899 • peaceofmindmassage.net MASSAGE THERAPY • ACUPUNCTURE • INJURY REHABILITATION
Thank You For voting Solar Dental the Top Dental Clinic of 2018 in Kitchener/Waterloo.
(519)-893-2790
655 Fairway Rd. S, Kitchener ON
solardental.com
20 18
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Are you benefitting from your smile? OR IS IT HOLDING YOU BACK? Research shows that 45% of adults are unhappy with their smiles. What many people do not realize, is the level of selfconfidence that comes with a nice smile. Interestingly enough, research shows that people who smile frequently: öö Make more money öö Are happier and tend to have a more positive outlook öö Are healthier öö Attract more compliments öö Have more friends Some research even indicates that people who smile more live longer! South Surrey Smiles is in the business of health, but also in the business of creating self-confidence. The power to change people’s lives every day is why they love what they do. South Surrey Smiles is an orthodontic practice that prides themselves on delivering exceptional quality care while creating an amazing experience for patients and staff. Their goal is to give people a life-changing smile that will give them confidence for a successful future. The CEO of our practice, Dr. Lesley Williams, is board certified in both the US
100 Summer/Fall 2018
and Canada. She is The Chief Examiner for the Canadian Fellowship Exams for orthodontic specialists. As well, Dr. Williams is the past president of the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists and belongs to the world-renowned Angle’s Society of Orthodontics. Needless to say, her standards are high and she runs a tight ship! The combined experience of the doctors at South Surrey Smiles is more than 40 years, so you know you will be in good hands. South Surrey Smiles specializes in braces and Invisalign and they were named an Invisalign Preferred Provider in 2016 and a Platinum Provider in 2017 & 2018. South Surrey Smiles was also awarded the Reader’s Choice award for 2017. Throughout the orthodontic journey, South Surrey Smiles gives their patients an experience that is positive and comfortable. South Surrey Smiles offers advanced technology, including digital x-rays and scanners to eliminate uncomfortable procedures like impressions! Amenities are offered and include a latte bar, water station, snacks, wifi, and iPads. Friends and family of patients can enjoy the theatre room while patients have their appointments. In addition to receiving quality care and excellent service, patients are excited
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
"
South Surrey Smiles is in the business of health, but also in the business of creating self-confidence."
to be part of South Surrey Smiles because of their involvement in the community. Partnering with other businesses, schools, and extracirricular activities, South Surrey Smiles is always finding ways to put on events and get the community involved South Surrey Smiles is honored to have received the 2018 Top Choice Award for Top Orthodontic clinic in Vancouver for the second year in a row and they look forward to continue raising the bar in the orthodontic profession while changing their patients’ lives.
20 18
101-2626 Croydon Dr. South Surrey, BC (604) 670-2296 southsurreysmiles.com
Spectus Eyewear SPECTUS EYEWEAR BEGAN ITS impressive journey
25 years ago, when Todd Crichton, the owner and a licensed Optician, opened its doors in 1994. He pledged to provide the people of Vancouver with the latest eyewear styles, advanced designs and highest quality available on the market.
The store is located on the west 4th Avenue, in the heart of beautiful Kitsilano, famous for its’ trendy and healthy lifestyle. Spectus Eyewear mission statement is to have fun while serving beautiful eyewear to the people of Kitsilano in a positive life enriching environment, while providing a unique and
personalized shopping experience. Todd networks with elite fashion designers, travelling the Globe in search of inimitable ideas he could integrate into his business. Spectus has highly trained, experienced Licenced Refracting Opticians and Contact Lens Fitters that provide personalized Sight Testing and Multifocal Lens Fittings. Their production process includes biometric measurements, using advanced tools like Visio-Office and the highest equipment in Contact Lens technology. Their knowledgeable Lab-technicians are well-known for their skills in lens manufacturing, using most advanced Digital Essilor edging System and proficient adjustments. Spectus is proud to carry one of the largest Lindberg Titanium collections in Canada. The Danish Designer offers a vast assortment of customizable Platinum, Buffalo Horn, Mammoth Tusk, Gold and Diamond frames. The store’s product list is continuously growing and recently, in addition to MayBach, welcomed
905.271.2980 1200 Vanier Drive unit #2 Mississauga, ON
20 18
another luxury brand – Shamballa. Shamballa Eyewear is a collection inspired by the ancient traditions of Yoga and Meditation. It is a Japanese hand-built eyewear and sunglasses with the highest quality Zeiss lenses and exotic Italian leather and precious metals. The staff at Spectus Eyewear is constantly challenging themselves to improve their skills and knowledge about new products and innovative solutions in order to provide an exceptional customer service. For foreign speaking clients, Spectus offers numerous languages like German, Russian, Portuguese, Japanese and French. With the unique collection, friendly staff and unbeatable customer service, Spectus Eyewear is a winner of many awards and is a sight to behold.
604 730 0503 2209 W 4th Ave, Vancouver spectuseyewear.com
Celebrating 20 years in the Beauty/Spa Industry
HEALTH & BEAUTY
The Skyview Family Dental team come together to celebrate their 2018 Top Choice Award for Top Dental Clinic in Aurora
Skyview Family & Cosmetic Dentistry CHANGING THE WAY PEOPLE FEEL ABOUT DENTISTRY! ACCORDING TO DR.HADDAD, A
healthy smile has to come from within. At Skyview Dental Care, Dr.Haddad has built his practice around treating the whole patient. With over 30 years of experience as a dentist, Dr. Haddad takes a comprehensive approach, believing there is an interrelationship between one’s teeth, body and emotions.
CONNECTION WITH PATIENTS We believe that to be able to do dentistry effectively the patient has to feel connected to the dental office. Therefore it is important that our clinicians understand the patients’ needs first before the clinical result is achieved. People have different fears, anxieties, in a dental environment. To some there is a needle phobia; to others it is merely the sound of the drill. Therefore understanding these aspects are important before any dental work is commenced. People also have different needs and philosophies. Some just want the essential dental work to achieve a healthy mouth, while others have specific cosmetic needs that they are looking for. Slightly crooked
102 Summer/Fall 2018
teeth, as an example, may be a part of a patient’s character and is acceptable, while to others they have to be perfectly aligned. By understanding the person we can achieve the final desired smile.
COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY We take patient education very seriously, and to help with that we have a host of visual tools, including intra-oral cameras and digital radiography, to involve patients in the care we provide. People are amazed by what they see in their mouths. It helps make them become true partners in the treatment plan, which is the ultimate goal. While most people emphasize the artistic element of cosmetic dentistry, there are other equally important considerations. We use facial measurements to achieve proportion and balance. There is science behind every beautiful smile we create. We are able to provide a number of dental procedures at the same office without referring to other specialists. This takes years and years of commitment to continuing education and training in different aspects of dentistry.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
We are proud to say that we are able to provide high quality comprehensive treatment for our patients.
COMFORTABLE SURROUNDING We truly believe that one’s emotions, physical health and dental well-being go hand-in-hand. Therefore being in the right environment is an important aspect of the whole dental experience. Esthetic alluring furniture, Relaxing colors, and soft lighting satisfy the sense of sight. Aromatherapy and the absence of dental odors appeal to the sense of smell. Listening to music, watching shows, or silence, deal with the sense of hearing. Comfortable chairs, massage chairs, neck pillows and blankets, are important for the comfort of the patient while having dental treatment.
372 Hollandview Trail Suite #200 • Aurora, On 877-811-6628 • skyviewdental.ca
DR. RAMZI HADDAD takes a comprehensive approach, believing there is an interrelationship between one’s
TEETH, BODY & EMOTIONS
HEALTH & BEAUTY
The Gambit Barbershop INSPIRED BY FAMILY, MOTIVATED BY PASSION THE BARBERING INDUSTRY FOR
3 Locations to serve you: 3883 Rutherford Rd Woodbridge, On 12992 Keele Street King City, On 105 The Pond Rd Etobicoke, On thegambitbarbershop.com
104 Summer/Fall 2018
me is something that’s been generational in my family. My grandfather was a barber, my parents are both hairstylists and growing up in their hair salon and watching them work really ignited my passion for the industry. I started cutting hair as a teenager and that’s really when I decided that this is what I wanted to do. I loved the way you can make someone feel by giving them a new look and the confidence they feel after leaving your chair. After a few years of working under my parents at their hair salon, I decided to venture off on my own and pursue my career as a barber and that’s when I opened The Gambit Barbershop. The Gambit Barbershop Vaughan, our first location, was opened in 2013. After months of hard work and dedication, we quickly built our clientele through our delivery of top notch service and cuttingedge style. We offer services for people of all demographics. Whether it’s just a haircut or one of our luxury services such as a traditional hot towel shave, we always strive to give our clients the utmost in professional service. At the Gambit Barbershop,
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Barber Shop of 2018 in Vaughan
we pride ourselves on our professionalism and the ability to offer our clients only the best in quality products and the latest styles. We have since then expanded to two more locations in King City and York University. At The Gambit Barbershop, we feel so fortunate to be a part of the beautiful city of Vaughan that we take great pride in giving back to the community. As a large number of our clientele are the youth of Vaughan we try to give back and support those youth by sponsoring the various hockey and soccer teams that they are a part of. We also always accept apprentices and those participating in co-operative education programs in the surrounding high schools. We’ve been blessed with the opportunity to be a part of this industry and want to do the same for aspiring young barbers and hairstylists. We are so honored and privileged to have been chosen for the Top Choice Award Top Barbershop in Vaughan and we look forward to continuing to maintain our highest level of service and professionalism for the years to come.
LEAVE THE CHAIR WITH
CONFIDENCE
20 18
LOCATIONS IN
Vaughan, Etobicoke & King City
thegambitbarbershop.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Top 5 Trends in Non-Surgical Skin Care BY BEAUTY INFLUENCER, SHAWN SOLOMON CEO, MA, CLT Advertorial by Thornhill Skin Clinic YOU MIGHT NOT WANT
to say it in a corporate job interview or list it on your Facebook profile, but I am of the belief that "skin care" fully qualifies as a very important hobby. After all, skin is your largest organ and your first line of protection against everything the earth might decide to throw your way on any given day — why shouldn't it get a big chunk of attention? Of course, you already know the basics — retinol, vitamin C, and SPF are crucial blah blah blah — so make 2018 the year you go deep. Learn what your ingredients are really doing, tend to your sun damage and rosacea, consider PRP treatments, and you just might come out the other side with your best skin ever. Ahead you will find five product and procedural trends that the I am super excited about this year — and that'll put your complexion ahead of the curve.
PRP THE VAMPIRE FACIAL This treatment brings us visions of Kim Kardasian and a blood-soaked face. Theatrical and horrifying to some, but truly a remarkable time in anti-aging and skin care. The vampire facial, also known as the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) facial, includes drawing blood from your arm, separating the platelets, and
106 Summer/Fall 2018
then injecting them into your skin via microneedling. The practitioner runs the needle pen over your face while squirting the platelets into the micro channels. Since the platelets are high in growth hormone, and the microneedling stimulates the skin to regenerate, the entire procedure is meant to aid cell regeneration. Coupled with the infinite power of your own growth factors, derived from your blood, it will support the strength and stretch in the skin, improve pore size, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and is even amazing for acne and acne scars. PRP will show your skin the love inside and out. It can be used on the face as well as body and PRP is widely gaining popularity in treatment of alopecia (male and female pattern baldness) with stunning results. A formal consultation is the best way to find our if the Vampire Facial is right for you, but in my opinion, I would usually say, it is pretty much for everyone.
LASER GENESIS When I speak of Genesis I am not quoting from the Bible, even though this skin treatment should be considered nothing short of a miracle. One of the most compelling aspect to skin and skin care of 2018 is the desire for results with little to no downtime. Well if this sounds divine to you, Laser
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Genesis may be what you and your skin have been looking for. Laser Genesis is your solution to bad lighting and Instagram filters...because, once you have had it, you won’t need them. Laser Genesis is a breakthrough laser treatment that stimulates the skin’s natural processes to reverse the signs of aging and promote a vibrant healthy complexion. Micro-pulses of laser energy activate collagen remodeling to improve the appearance of the lines and wrinkles and will target unwanted facial redness. Although individual treatment results are subtle, the overall effect of a treatment series can be quite dramatic. Laser Genesis will help restore your skin’s youthful glow. A
series of 4-6 treatments are recommended to achieve an optimal outcome and ongoing maintenance treatments are encouraged to sustain results over time. We are aging every day, so it should be an open consideration that maintenance is a must. This treatment can be added to your regular cell renewal treatments for that extra skin boost. Today is all about the glow, and Laser Genesis delivers every time.
LIPS Clownish, over-inflated lips are so passé. Natural-ish is a the new ‘now’ goal. The latest in injectable trends includes new product offerings like Restylane Kysse. This modern and superior product offers your lips a
natural, juicy, hydrated pout. It will soften the lines and creates a very natural-looking result, which lasts up to a year. Gone are the days of the quack, quack and hello to the glossed, and hydrated look of a perfect pout. The forgone conclusion of big is always better has changed (yet again), but what will always be ‘in’ and on trend is beautiful, smooth, proportionate lips.
BOTOX FACIAL (MICROCHANNELING) The AquaGold® Fine Touch is a glass vial topped with 20, 24 gold plated, hair thin needles allowing the introduction of product under the skin through the process of micro- channeling. Many clinicians have their own secret cocktails. At TSC we have our very own proprietary blend that is sure to be your latest addiction. A mixture of Botox, Juvéderm and other skin vitamins prove to be just the thing to repair your tired skin back to its smooth and pore-less days. Hyaluronic acids or dermal fillers have historically been used to fill the creases in our skin, make our cheekbones more prominent or shape our lips Angelina Joli-esque, but now you can also fill in and tighten those pores. Pure genius! Ok, I’m gonna have to say I’m a little obsessed with AquaGold® simply because it fills a void in skincare, that in the past we really couldn’t touch. Fine lines and wrinkles that truly need a-lot of work, but youwere-just-invited-to-the-party-of-the-year and must get ‘selfie’ worthy and fast.... well this is your answer! The short and quick results of AquaGold® are amazing all on their own, but the long-term benefits of collagen induction caused from the microchanneling make this little device the best thing since sliced bread. Even Kim K had it done in preparation for The Met Ball! I think 2018 will leave us with AquaGold® on our mind.
GROWTH FACTOR By definition: a substance, such as a vitamin or hormone, that is required for the stimulation of growth in living cells. Sound good to me! If it were up to us, we would all have perfect, flawless complexions and look as if we were ready to stroll down the red carpet at any time. Unfortunately, genetics plays a major role in determining what type of skin we inherit, and it seems totally unfair that we have no say at all! For anyone grieving about their misfortune, the good news is that now more than
ever before, there are more methods and products available for achieving and maintaining healthy skin. On a daily basis we are asked for the ‘1’ product that can do it all. Now even though we all know it is unrealistic to think there is any, one potion that will be the end-all-be-all, but if I had to pick one that is currently trending as one of the top must have products for 2018, it would have to be Skin Medica’s TNS Essential Serum. This power packed, double pump serum is nothing short of liquid gold! SkinMedica TNS also fights free-radicals with antioxidants, including Co-enzyme Q10, Vitamin C, Green Tea, Blackberry, etc. And finally, for instant cosmetic effect, SkinMedica TNS also contains a few ‘specialty ingredients’ such as aminobutyric acid, which purportedly acts as a neuromuscular inhibitor, relaxing facial muscles; and hyaluronic acid, which acts as a kind of molecular sponge, resulting in a smoothing effect. In other words, short of making you a cup of tea in the morning, this product has just about everything you need for the ultimate beauty sleep. More than a promise, it is the absolute fan-favorite at TSC. Not just the best seller, but the best reseller. Once you have tried it, it is kind of hard to live without. I will always recommend good skin care in combination with the right treatment plan but if you must... this would be the one. Your welcome! The times are changing quickly, and science and innovation is moving faster than we can keep up with...the future looks great for the anti-aging aficionados of today. These Top 5 trends promise to keep you smooth, refined and wrinkle free while we wait for the next latest and greatest on the horizon. I can hardly wait to see what’s in-store for 2019! Here’s to aging as gracefully as we ‘choose’. Nothing like options to make it easy.
“Look as young as you feel.” Thornhill Skin Clinic is your Uptown Medi-spa with a downtown feel. Cutting-edge technology meets the highest standard of service and experience. Your beauty is our business.
20 18
905-771-0913 7787 Yonge Street Unit 11 & 12 Thornhill, On
thornhilskinclinic.com
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE Summer/Fall 2018 107
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Urban Nails A LEGACY IN THE MAKING Eric Pimentel MANY INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES STRUGGLE to start up, upwards
to 60% of them fail within the first year of business. The creation of Urban Nails is a tale about opportunity, determination and defying all odds, making merely an idea a successful reality that has benefited the community in many ways. The story begins with the founder of Urban Nails, Kevin Nguyen. He opened up his very first nail salon in 2008 with a small team of only three staff members. Faced with adversity, a competitive industry and a tough road ahead of him, Kevin buckled up for the bumpy ride. Year after year Kevin continued to push forward, constantly improving himself and his nail salon. Although it was a tough journey Kevin remained focused on his goal of developing his business into what it is today, the Top Nail Salon of 2018 in Toronto, 3 years running. In just 10 years we have had the pleasure to watch Kevin flourish, expand, and develop his business into a thriving nail salon with extremely high levels of customer satisfaction. He now maintains a team of twenty-two staff members and is moving towards opening a second location in the near future. Urban Nails is a stand out salon defined by their impeccable customer service and attention to detail. They strive to keep their customers happy and ensure only the highest quality of craftsmanship. Their nail salon specializes in shellac manicures and pedicures, as well as unique nail design. Urban Nails extends their expertise to include waxing, bio sculpture gel, nail enhancement, solar manicures and
108 Summer/Fall 2018
pedicures, and even artificial nails. Through hard work and genuine care for their customers, they’ve rightfully claimed their status as Top Nail Salon in Toronto for a second year in a row. You can undoubtedly expect to leave the salon with a polished smile on your face. Customer satisfaction is key and Urban Nail’s priority is that you love your nails. They are proud to carry high quality products, trained technicians, and offer a soothing atmosphere in their beautiful salon, but most of all they want their clients to leave with a “nothing less than fabulous” experience. They are known for their cleanliness and hygienic approach to nail care, offering the latest in chemical and fragrance-free treatments. Your seat is awaiting you! Just as any other Top Choice Award winning business they were voted by the consumers as the Top Nail Salon of 2018 in Toronto. This win displays the love that the members of the community have for the expertise in which they have to offer. The Top Choice Award seal of approval displays the ambitions of Kevin and his hardworking team, filling the city’s
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
need for a Top quality salon with the care and dedication of a humble and professional team. Kevin’s tale is the epitome of inspiration for entrepreneurs everywhere. He had a dream which he believed in and through dedication and hard work he was able to make that dream a reality. Kevin grinded day and night, faced many adversities and was stronger because of it. He truly displays what it means to be a Top Choice Award winner. He is respectable, admirable, and overall determined in his pursuit. Kevin’s story of success portrays that nothing in life is handed to you, you need to work for everything you want, and rest at nothing to reach your goals.
416-778-8288 179 Danforth Ave, Toronto urbannails.ca
You’re in great hands...
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Nail Salon of 2018 in Toronto
NAILS • MANICURES • PEDICURES • WAXING
416-778-8288 179 Danforth Ave., Toronto urbannails.ca
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Vanguard Hair Parlour IT'S NOT JUST ANY EXPERIENCE, IT'S THE VANGUARD EXPERIENCE.
110 Summer/Fall 2018
IT’S AN AGE-OLD TALE – when you look good you feel good – and Vanguard Hair Parlour is just the salon to make that happen. It is quality and client contentment that has given the salon it's elevated reputation thus far. Sometimes, a bad day just needs a good blowout, however at Vanguard, they do more than just that. With busy lifestyles becoming more prominent than ever, Vanguard Hair Parlour makes it their goal to ensure their clients experience comfort to the fullest. Vanguard Hair Parlour, is a Redken exclusive salon, specializing in hair colouring and colour corrective services. With a highly trained staff, the salon is able to offer an extensive array of services to meet the needs of a diverse clientele from the utmost exquisite blowouts to deep conditioning treatments, highlights and correctional colour services, the quantity of hair services available is endless. The overall salon aesthetic is chic and visually pleasing to the cliental. With a focus on interior trends, the location additionally establishes an environment that
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
allows the client to relax and rejuvenate. To further insinuate the overall environment, the salon has become a family to many of its clients. There is a distinct level of comfort allowing the salon to act as a social gathering for individuals to destress from their daily lives and feel beautiful. The stylists have developed a balance of quality and creativity with beauty in mind. Vanguard Hair Parlour has reached the epitome of salons in Ontario. The salon’s dedication to quality services and client contentment has placed it above others for boundless reasons. For many, their hair acts as a form of security and their initial influence when feeling beautiful. It is important we place it in the hands of experts, good hair care goes a long way. Vanguard Hair Parlour has accomplished just this, they are experts in all the services they offer. Inevitably, the salon is dedicated to bringing creativity, comfort and quality back to salon services. See our ad for location and contact.
Relax and rejuvenate with The Vanguard Experience… Voted Top Choice 20 18
Hair Salon of 2018 in Newmarket / Aurora
DEDICATED TO BRINGING CREATIVITY, COMFORT AND QUALITY BACK TO SALON SERVICES.
905-503-8800 4-38 Wellington St. E. Aurora, On vanguardhair.com
HOME SERVICES
ALBO Renovations YOUR TOP CHOICE FOR RENOVATION SERVICES IN TORONTO QUALITY AND COST FOR YOUR HOME RENOVATION SO YOU’RE READY TO
transform your home into a beautiful living space. However, a few concerns pop into mind: who can you really trust to remodel your kitchen? How do you know the contractor will follow through with your basement renovation? Does your contractor know anything about electrical wiring? And, most of all, have you been quoted fairly? We have found out that most of homeowners go through 4 (on average) contractors or renovation companies before they decide, on who should be awarded with the job. One of the biggest mistakes people make, when selecting a company is selecting the company who gives the lowest cost for the job, disregarding actual details that go into contract, experience and reputation of the company. After all this is your home and you will be living there, so should you not use more professional and trusted service that will cost a little more?
ALBO RENOVATIONS ALBO Renovations is aware that each client has their own set of worries when it comes to honesty, cost and quality. With that, they have a unique way of catering to clients, which is why they have earned a Top Choice Award in Top Renovation Services of 2018 in Toronto. Based in
112 Summer/Fall 2018
the GTA and operating since 2005, the ALBO specializes in custom home designs and construction, basement finishings, offices and even cottages. They have multiple awards from Houzz and Homestars for renovation services in Toronto (best of 2017 and 2018). Unlike other companies ALBO RENO gives very detailed quote on all the work and will never go above the limit unless the scope of work changes. As ALBO representative explains: “Many homeowners are shopping around to find a cheaper deal, but in the end, the results are very bad”. About prices vs quality debate for renovation he replied: “Looking at the renovation market from the inside, we realized that many so-called renovators without a reputation tend to give cheaper prices. However, this puts homeowners at risk of being scammed for money and poor quality work.”
COME AND SEE THE WORK What also makes ALBO Renovations stand tall in a crowd of home improvement companies is their customer service. Consider how they handle references: as you know, providing references is key to gaining trust from clients. But unlike other renovators who solely provide the numbers and emails of past clients, this company goes above and beyond. They literally invite prospective clients and current customers to visit job sites.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
This is where you can see how tasks are managed by a project manager; understand how renovations progress step-by-step; and watch the ALBO RENO in action.
ALBO HOMES Last year the company created a separate division – ALBO HOMES, specifically
dedicated to building custom homes in Toronto and GTA. We wish them good luck and more clients in future years as they continue to satisfy homeowners and winning multiple awards for renovations and home builds. (416) 909-9966 alboreno.com
The very best in
LUXURY HOME RENOVATION SERVICES …since 2005
(416) 909-9966 • www.alboreno.com
20 18
MONEY. TIME. EFFORT. JUST A FEW THINGS WE DON’T WANT YOU TO FLUSH DOWN THE DRAIN
All Plumbing Repairs Plumbing Installations Drain Cleaning Video Inspection Power Washing Sump Pumps Sewage Pumps Water Filtration Water Softening Waterproofing Boiler Heating Repair Top Plumbing Services of 2018 in Toronto, 12 years running
Austin and Greg Tsakopoulos, owners of Priority Plumbing
416-762-8662 PRIORITYPLUMBING.CA Same Day Service | 7 Days a Week Service | Upfront and Fair Pricing | Highly Skilled Technicians | Lifetime Warranty
WE’RE HONOURED
to serve
Your friends at Roy Inch & Sons Service Experts wish to express our gratitude to all our valued customers for your confidence, trust and many years of support. Thanks to you, Roy Inch & Sons Service Experts has been voted Top Air Conditioning and Heating Company of 2018 in London! Roy Inch & Sons has been servicing the heating and cooling needs of the London area for more than 90 years.
519.681.2450 RoyInch.com
Heating & Air Conditioning Indoor Air Quality Duct Cleaning HVAC Installation Plumbing · Fireplaces
Don’t just call anyone, call the Experts.
WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS, 24/7
© 2018 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc.
HOME SERVICES
Do Something Good with Douglas AT DOUGLAS WINDOW & DOOR INC. OUR MISSION IS TO HELP. EACH AND EVERY DAY WE WORK HARD TO HELP OUR CLIENTS, PARTNERS AND COMMUNITY. WE DO SO BY providing more than just a service; not only do we offer unmatched customer experiences, products and aftercare, we are also strongly dedicated to making personal impact through relationship building and regular community outreach. This year, Douglas was presented with our third consecutive Top Choice Award for our work in the Window and Door Industry in Southwestern, Ontario. We are incredibly honoured to have earned this Mark of Excellence and are humbled by the incredible support we’ve received from our loyal customers, service partners, family and friends. Most importantly, we are thankful to have access to this unique platform to discuss the importance of choosing the right contracting partner for your unique needs. Embrace a different way of doing business. Douglas Window & Door Inc. was founded in 2005 out of a strong desire to do business differently. Having spent many years witnessing the detrimental impact of aggressive sales tactics, convoluted warranties and contracted installation teams on several industry leading brands, company President, Christopher George, recognized an opportunity to make a change. At Douglas, we understand that high quality products and competitive
116 Summer/Fall 2018
prices mean nothing if they are not supported by a foundation of integrity, transparency and above all, a passion for providing thorough, 360° customer experiences. As such, our primary objective is always to ensure each and every client receives a seamless, transparent and personalized customer experience that exceeds expectations. The Douglas team doesn’t just make connections, we work diligently to build relationships that inspire brand loyalty and repeat business. We focus on comfort, work to prove our dependability, and most importantly, we take the time to listen. That’s the Douglas Difference. Make a smart investment. For many, selecting a contractor can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Top Choice makes it easy to source and contact the most renowned service providers in your area. When replacing your windows and doors, it is absolutely crucial to partner with an experienced contractor who maintains a strong dedication to installation, service and aftercare. Too often, homeowners are faced with costly repairs as a result of poor window installation. With over a decade of industry experience and an unwavering commitment to integrity, Douglas is London’s most trusted window and door specialist. Passionate
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
about their craft and dedicated to exceeding expectations, our experienced team of expert installers are truly unmatched in the industry. Updating your windows and doors is a smart choice, one that could benefit your home’s value, your family’s comfort and even the overall health of our environment. Invest in a brighter future with Douglas. Make the right choice, the Top Choice.
For more information on the opportunities available with Douglas Window & Door, please visit our website, reach out directly or join our growing digital community on social media. douglaswindowanddoor.com facebook.com/ Douglaswindowanddoor
Experience The Douglas Difference Proudly Serving London and Southwestern Ontario For Over 13 years!
At Douglas Window & Door, we strive to do business differently. With an emphasis on personalized service, extended support and unparalleled installation, we work to ensure each client has an exceptional experience.
1-800-488-3193 www.DouglasWD.com
HOME SERVICES
Meet Kitchen Land THE KITCHEN REMODELING & RENOVATION EXPERTS AT KITCHEN LAND WE believe that the key room in your home is your kitchen. Kitchen design and decorating is a balance between what’s trendy, and what will endure the test of time. You may have a limited budget and feel as though there’s little you can do to create a new look. Surprisingly, it’s often the little details that make a big difference in how the central hub of your home is perceived. Whether you’re starting from scratch, building a new home, remodeling your kitchen completely or just freshening things up, Kitchen Land will bring your dreams to life. Let’s talk colours. White is still the most selected cabinet colour today, but innovation is welcome. Soft grey shades are being offered by leading cabinet manufacturers with great results. Grey painted accents combined with deep stained wood makes a beautiful combination. You can mix and match wood species as well as stains. Adding rustic hardwood floors will help soften the look and meld country with contemporary styling. It’s the simple things that can change the look of the room. Contrasting finishes are now, more than ever used by kitchen designers in their creations of contemporary kitchens, utilizing contrasting shadows and textures to create interesting combinations. Dark cabinetry with white mosaic backsplashes and countertops add volume to small rooms. Today’s kitchens are adding drama through a balance of dark with light. There’s no need to break the bank when selecting a new countertop. While granite
118 Summer/Fall 2018
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Kitchen Remodelling Services of 2018 in Mississauga
and quartz are still strong choices, many of the quartz patterns mimic natural stone patterns plus beveled or raw finish edges give the high-definition look that will have your guests touching it to see if it’s real. Wood countertops are making a comeback as stand-alone island toppers or combined with marble. Functionality in a kitchen is paramount to any other element. Cabinet manufacturers have found some innovative solutions to maximize organization. From multitiered drawers, appliance garages, tiered countertops, double-level islands and backsplash shelving, to door caddies, there are endless ideas for maximizing space &
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
keeping cookware hidden until needed. Keeping everything tucked out of sight but easily accessible is the best of both worlds. Open concept designs are the new it! New kitchens are generally open to other rooms in the house, harmonizing colour palettes and accessories between rooms to help tie them together. Open shelf units in the kitchen can complement a similar unit in the great room. Coordinating area rugs or floral arrangements will add a subtle contrast and eye-pleasing finishing touch. Consider clean lines or removing some upper cabinets and replacing them with open shelving, allowing the room to feel more open and less cluttered. A mix of closed cabinets and open shelving can also be practical - keeping mismatched small appliances out of sight while displaying more decorative pieces. Kitchen Land is one stop shop for all your kitchen needs. We are the true connoisseurs of kitchen design and our passion for style combined with perfection of execution will help you create the kitchen of your dreams.
(905) 848-8509 1075 Queensway E Unit 14, Mississauga, ON kitchenland.ca
YARD MAINTENANCE • SPRING CLEAN-UPS • BED MAINTENANCE • FERTILIZER • PLOWING SIDEWALK CLEARING • SNOW REMOVAL • PARKING LOT SANDING
Experience the Bite
Calgary 403-621-1298
Edmonton 780-451-6600
TOP CHOICE_HalfPage_June2018.pdf 1 5/7/2018 4:38:26 PM
20 18
Carrington College a division of Peel Montessori School
Toddler to Grade 8
905-823-6522
The Edge the Future Demands. The Evironment your Child Deserves. Advanced Personalized Curriculum Flexible Schedules Ideal for Competitive Athletes Transportation Requests
International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school
peelmontessori.com
Voted Top Montessori School
of 2018 in Mississauga
20 18
RELIABLE, TRUSTWORTHY AND PROVEN Focused on Quality Cleaning and Customer Service Satisfaction since 2003
WWW.SSCCLEAN.CA
(613) 443-7781
S I M P LY @ X P L O R N E T. C O M
SERVING OTTAWA EAST TO WEST STITTSVILLE TO ROCKLAND
Commercial Residential • Carpet & Upholstery Solutions • Maid Service • Windows Post Construction • Pressure Washing • Property Management Solutions • Building Cleaning
Bonded-Insured-Trained Staff-Fall Protection-WHMIS Certified-WSIB Registered Security Cleared Company Award Winning Cleaning Teams -Veteran Independence Program (Blue Cross) We Strive to Provide a Superior Le vel of Ser vice
A-663 NOTRE-DAME STREET
EMBRUN, ONTARIO
K0A-1W0
HOME SERVICES
Meerkat Roofing TOP QUALITY SERVICE FOR OVER 20 YEARS. MEERKAT ROOFING & EXTERIORS
Ltd. is a company that has continued to grow and improve because of our dedicated customers who have taken the time to publicly acknowledge us by writing great reviews across several online platforms. Our customers are happy to tell others why they would choose us again! We believe this is because we are not just a roofing company, but a company that is built on integral values and commitment. Investing in serving Calgary & the surrounding areas with top quality service for over 20 years has been our #1 focus since we started business in 1997. How do we achieve this? We enforce amazing quality control procedures for every job, no matter how big or small it is. Our steps to guarantee the job is done efficiently and correctly remain the same whether we’re providing a homeowner with a full roof replacement, or we’re doing a simple repair on their eavestrough system. We believe in making sure that No detail is overlooked and our aim is to accomplish every job at a high level of excellence.
122 Summer/Fall 2018
Our Team is made up of unique individuals who each bring something different to the table which is both recognized and valued by our management team. This is reflected in how we care for our customers since we strongly believe that our staff members will be more inclined to care for homeowners with respect and a positive attitude if they feel appreciated by their managers. One of the most frequent things that our customers will highlight in their reviews is the Excellent customer service that they receive from each of our departments. We pride ourselves in really listening to the needs and requests of our customers. We take it very seriously that they have entrusted something as personal as their home to us. Our customers are real people, not just a number. Meerkat Roofing & Exteriors Ltd. is not only committed to investing in our customers, but also in Giving back to others. We have a dedicated Social Conscious Coordinator who organizes our annual charity work and is always looking for new ways to get our team involved with volunteer opportunities in our community. We even work with organizations beyond our Canadian borders! Our amazing office manager, Bev has been volunteering and serving at the Casa Alto Refugio (orphanage) in Mexico since before starting with Meerkat 20 years ago and we help these efforts in any way that we can. It always puts a smile on our face to know that our success can help benefit someone else’s life.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Safety is of the utmost importance to us, which is why we are Recognized as COR certified with the Alberta Construction Safety Association. The Certificate of Recognition (COR) is a voluntary program that Meerkat diligently chooses to participate in and keep up to date on all of their standards and beyond. Right from our crew orientation process to our frequent safety meetings, it’s obvious that we are committed to the highest standards of safety for the wellbeing of both our workers and customers. Another key element that has helped us be a successful company is being Innovative and willing to make necessary changes both internally and externally in order to remain relevant in today’s fast paced society. This has given us the ability to better meet the needs of our customers, which is yet another reason we have been named the Top Choice for Roofing Companies in Calgary. And last, but not least, our customers can sleep easy knowing that we warranty all of our work. INTEGRITY is not something that you can fake or imitate. It must be in the foundation of who you are and for Meerkat Roofing & Exteriors Ltd. this couldn’t be truer. It is evident in the quality of our work, the commitment to our customers, our values, our honesty and our genuine desire to serve our community even beyond our cliental. For more information or a free estimate visit meerkatroofing.ca
CALAGARY
135 - 2710 - 3rd Avenue NE Calgary, AB T2A 2L5 Office: (403) 226-2700 Fax: (403) 248-9996 Emergency: (403) 874-5550 RED DEER
#11 – 4845 79th Street Red Deer, AB T4P 2T4 Office: (403) 346-1000 Fax: (403) 346-1008 Emergency: (403) 990-8915
HOME SERVICES
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Why should you have your air ducts cleaned? THE EPA CLAIMS, “YOUR INDOOR AIR QUALITY IS FOUND TO BE 70 % MORE POLLUTED THAN THE OUTDOOR AIR.” THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER
Affairs also states, “Children and the elderly are more likely to be affected by polluted air.” By having your entire air handling system professionally cleaned, you are helping to reduce the risk of developing breathing disorders and reducing dust and pollutants in your home. The Asthma Society of Canada claims that, “Many cases of asthma and breathing disorders are triggered by allergens and pollens, dust mites, moulds and certain air pollutants, all of which can be found being circulated within your home.” Having your air ducts cleaned
124 Summer/Fall 2018
helps reduce the symptoms of allergies and asthma, as well as reduces the risk of costly repairs to your HVAC system. It will help it run more efficiently and effectively, saving you money year round. The decision of who you choose to use to have your air ducts professionally cleaned is just as important as the decision to have them cleaned. Just as there are many levels of service and quality in any industry, the same holds true in the air duct cleaning industry as well. Pricing for this service and standards can vary widely. Make sure the company you choose is reputable, has been in business for some time and offers a guarantee. Remember, the company you choose will need to enter each room in your home and will need to spend a reasonable amount of time to do a thorough cleaning depending on the size of your home. At Prestige Cleaning, we use only HomeSafe™ cleaning products, top of the line truck mounted units and equipment and provide our technicians with industry leading training. We are extremely proud of our entire staff for continuously delivering consistent, high quality service and great value to all of our clients since 1988. Our technicians are clean cut, uniformed, trained and certified by NADCA: The HVAC Inspection, Maintenance and Restoration Association as well as the Mechanical Systems Hygiene Institute. They take pride in the service they provide
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Duct Cleaning Service of 2018 in the GTA
and express an attitude of care and concern in your home. Our technicians walk through the cleaning process with you and inspect your air handling system before as well as after cleaning to show you the benefits and the difference the cleaning has made. All of our staff go through a rigorous screening process before hiring including security checks for our clients’ safety and are full time, permanent, career oriented employees. From the first time you make contact with our company to our post service follow up, we are constantly striving to improve your service experience. All of our work is 100% guaranteed which is stated directly on your invoice. We would like to thank our residential and commercial clients throughout the entire GTA for choosing Ontario’s largest and most respected professional duct cleaning and carpet cleaning service providers. We proudly accept the 2018 Top Choice Award for the 9th consecutive year
1.888.925.3265 prestigecleaning.ca
E
E
GEN Y
S
ER
C
EM
Thanks Ottawa for Awarding
R V I C
The Top Heating & Cooling Company for
2018
Satisfaction Guaranteed!
The people have spoken!
We are your only choice for year-round home comfort. Stan’s. Your local heating and cooling specialist. Serving Ottawa for 50 Years!
613.237.4040
I
stanshvac.ca
Emerald Management & Realty Ltd. is a family owned and operated Calgary Property Management Service Company with over 40 years of experience providing rental property services to local, national and international investors. We are dedicated to providing the foremost in service to our Property Owners and their Tenants, and believe that our continuing success in the property management business attests strongly to our commitment to both.
Experts in Property for over 40 years
20 18
emeraldmanagement.com 1036 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB (403) 237-8600
HOME SERVICES
TriMatrix Construction MAXIMIZING THE VALUE OF A HOME
WHEN PURCHASING A HOME,
people often fall in love with a house for several reasons including overall character, location and price. However, after living in a house for some time, it is common to find faults in the home’s functionality and appearance. This is the stage when renovations are usually considered. When renovating, the main focus is typically on how to make the home more functional but also, one should keep in mind, how a renovation can add to the value of the home and how it can potentially increase its future resale value. TriMatrix Construction has over 30 years of experience in the industry and renovations are our speciality. We know how to increase the value of your home and focus on the areas that will provide maximum returns. We always advise our clients to renovate the interiors of their homes first. With the busy lifestyles we all lead, functionality is key. We always ensure that the renovated spaces coincide and reflect the lifestyles of the respective homeowner. With a functional space that works well, it is extremely fun to add pizazz with finishes. The kitchen is a top priority. The kitchen is the heart of the home, the area where everyone gathers to prepare and enjoy family dinners or special celebrations. Dedicating a sizable budget for a kitchen renovation ensures that all needs are met in terms of function, and
128 Summer/Fall 2018
"
…renovations are our speciality. We know how to increase the value of your home and focus on the areas that will provide maximum returns." Voted Top Choice 20 18
Renovation Company of 2018 in Vaughan
some splurges can happen with respect to increasing the value of the home. Invest in changing the layout, attain new cabinetry, and purchase modern appliances. Home buyers will always be more inclined to purchase a home with an updated kitchen. Next, we suggest tackling the bathrooms of the home. If the house has multiple bathrooms, renovate the main bathroom first. Renovating one bathroom at a time will ensure that there is always a usable bathroom in the house, thus allowing homeowners to keep living there even during renovations. Bathrooms are part of the essentials therefore, they are key to increasing the value of a home. If the budget and space doesn’t allow for too much change, upgrade the countertops, faucets, and accessories to give the space a fresh look. Finally, we recommend taking the renovations outside. Curb appeal is
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
vital to increasing the value of a home. Homebuyers will be more inclined to look further if their first impressions of the exterior is a good one. Investing in landscaping for both the front and backyard is ideal. Create an outdoor living space if possible to extend the size of the home, raising potential functionality and home value. When possible, make outdoor living spaces flow from the interior thereby, providing an expanded unified living area. From our expertise in renovating homes for over 30 years, we have learned that investing in these three areas of the home will not only maximize a home’s value for potential resale, it will also increase the enjoyment of the home because of its newfound functionality.
Visit our Showroom: 115B Saramia Crescent Concord, On 905 856 5156 • trimatrix.ca
FASHION
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Designer Kids Wear CANADA’S LEADING LUXURY MULTI-BRAND, OMNI-CHANNEL CHILDRENSWEAR BOUTIQUE. DESIGNER KIDS WEAR OFFERS
extensive collections of the most luxurious brands in children's apparel, footwear and accessories. We are Canada’s leading luxury multi-brand, Omni-channel childrenswear boutique. Our personable, knowledgeable and friendly associates ensure that every child feels special and wears beautiful pieces with a style that best represent their personalities. For the Second consecutive year, we’re honored to be crowned 2018 Top Kids Clothing Store in Vaughan. An integral part of our success is due to our loyal customer base in Vaughan, Toronto, the GTA and across Canada. This award exemplifies our commitment to provide our clients with a carefully curated balanced representation of designer collections, of which includes apparel, footwear, accessories and gift items, for both boys and girls from ages newborn to size 16 years. This
130 Summer/Fall 2018
past season, the collections of: GUCCI, GIVENCHY & MONCLER, were some of our top performing brands for Spring/ Summer 2018. As Canada’s leading luxury multibrand, Omni channel retailer we are constantly striving to evolve and grow by providing the best customer service and some of the most exclusive, children’s brands from around the globe. Our buying team has over 30 years of combined experience in childrenswear, and is known for selecting the very best products and collections. From season to season, our team travels around the world carefully selecting unique pieces from some of the most renowned fashion houses. We are constantly looking for new brands to bring to our customer base and are excited to announce that we will be representing the exclusive collections of KENZO Kids and BALMAIN for Spring/Summer 2019. Both
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
Kid's Clothing Store of 2018 in Vaughan
of these Parisian Fashion houses are celebrated worldwide for their iconic style, quality and attention to detail. KENZO is known for its quirky combination of color and culture. BALMAIN is synonymous for its ‘Mini-me’ styles, which display the same classic and edgy pieces as their adult collections. Over the years we have continuously evolved in order to embrace the ever-changing retail landscape and environment. This has allowed us to merge our retail operations to enable our customers to transact via physical store, online store and mobile commerce. In doing so, we have created a seamless shopping experience whereby customers have the option to purchase online and pick-up in-store. By remaining consistent and ‘up to date’ with the latest trends/versions of integrating online shopping, we feel that we can furthermore improve our clients shopping experience. Designer Kids Wear is Canada’s "go to" destination for high quality luxury children’s fashions. It is our goal to ensure that all of our customers have an enjoyable and memorable in-store and online shopping experience. Happy Shopping! You can browse our collections by visiting designerkidswear.ca
905.264.7228 • 7500 Martin Grove Rd Unit #8, Vaughan • designerkidswear.ca
FASHION
Fabio Menswear COMMITTED TO THEIR CLIENTELE… FOR OVER 45 YEARS. F O R OV E R 4 5 Y E A R S , Fabio European Menswear has been outfitting gentlemen from all walks of life in fine, quality clothing—from expertly tailored suits to their famous non-iron cotton shirts and casual wear to take you from the workday to the weekend. This family business's secret serving its customers for nearly half a century? Commitment to their clientele has been what drives Marco, the owner of Fabio’s, from day one. You won’t get any fast-talking salesmen looking to make a commission here—instead you'll find attention to detail and service that every guy deserves when shopping for a suit, most likely from Marco himself. You'll also meet Armand, his long-term colleague and a suiting expert with decades of experience in men’s clothing. Now, we know how important it is to look the part to feel successful, especially in today’s fast-paced business world. Not only do you feel more confident and comfortable when you're dressed in a well-fitting and quality suit, but you're also telling the world to take you seriously. You're turning
132 Summer/Fall 2018
ARMAND, Suiting Expert and MARCO, Owner
heads and commanding attention—from your boss, colleague, client or staff member. At Fabio, you will see exclusive European name brands that you’ll likely not find anywhere else in Toronto. What makes their suiting collection truly remarkable is not only the high-end collections at affordable prices, but the selection of wrinkle-free, non-iron shirts and machine-washable suits. Yes, you read that correctly, the suits are machine-washable! You can throw them in the washer like the rest of your laundry, take them out, hang them and wear them again the next day, as good as new. Marco, the passionate and animated founder isn’t shy to show you how they work himself. So don’t take our word for it; stop by the downtown-Toronto location and ask him yourself for a demonstration. The secret is their advanced, cuttingedge fabric blends that have two-way stretch, antimicrobial, moisture-wicking, stain- and wrinkle-resistant properties. You truly have to see it to believe it. This may come as a shock to most people since
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
we generally don’t associate good quality suits and shirts with machine-washable practicality. And let’s face it, the only thing men dislike doing more than shopping is ironing and spending money on dry-cleaning. Not only has Fabio maintained impeccable service and a near 5-star Google review rating over the years, they have also managed to amass a loyal and impressive client base who, once they buy, can’t shop anywhere else and become patrons for years to come—from new graduates excited to get their first suit, to seasoned professionals running Fortune-500 companies. Come say hello and see for yourself why Fabio has been offering the same consistent quality of European menswear for generations.
You can visit Fabio Menswear in the beautiful Entertainment District at 270 Wellington St. W, Unit 101. Call them at (416) 364-2480 or visit them online at fabio.ca
Over 45 Years of Experience in Menswear
Wrinkle Resistant Stain Resistant Stretch Fabric for Extreme Comfort
Purveyors of Exclusive European Brands
270 Wellington St. W, Unit 101 Toronto (416) 364-2480
FABIO.CA
Customize Your Own Designs Suits & Tuxedos for Your Wedding & Groomsmen
Made-to-Measure Suits
Huge Selection of Wrinkle-Free Shirts
Choose from Hundreds of Available Fabrics
Made from the Finest Quality of Fabrics 20 1 8
For the best in customer service… For the best in name brands… For the best in styling… Come to the best in Woodbridge…
Market Lane Shopping Centre
140 Woodbridge Ave., Woodbridge, On
20 18
905-851-6566 brandosclothing.com Facebook-square Twitter-Square INSTAGRAM �@brandosclothing
FASHION
A Shopping Experience Like No Other LAUREN GEISER, OWNER AND FOUNDER OF MAISON JOLIE, BRINGS THE WORLD’S MOST UNIQUE FASHION AND PERSONALIZED SERVICE TO THE WOMEN OF TEXAS. While Lauren Geiser always had an eye for fashion, she never expected to own the top-rated lingerie store in a city of over 6 million people. “Even as a young girl growing up in Biloxi, Mississippi, I always sought out unique clothing that no one else was wearing. And I would put things together that my friends would initially question, but then began to adopt into their own wardrobes.” said Lauren of her early start with fashion. Since opening in late 2015, Maison Jolie has rapidly become the go-to location in Houston for the highest quality lingerie and swimwear along with top-notch service. Originally approached to help with buying and to make an investment in a new boutique, Lauren’s role quickly developed into being the sole owner and operator of the new store. From the start, Lauren’s vision of a limited number of special items with bespoke service has been consistent, and she has worked tirelessly to build her brand and team. This work has resulted in her winning numerous awards including “2017 Best of the City: Style” by Houston Modern Luxury magazine and the store being featured in various publications, websites and television shows. Maison Jolie specializes in only the most unique items, and the boutique’s vendors are located across the globe from Europe, Asia, Australia and North and South America. Lauren personally selects all the items that are brought into the store, many times with particular clients in mind. She also continues to pair different items in distinctive ways to make a statement.
136 Summer/Fall 2018
713 850 1362 4003 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX, USA maisonjolie.co
“
Attractive and comfortable lingerie allows a woman to feel confident and sexy in any situation” – LAUREN GEISER
From the beginning, Lauren has grown her team with experienced sales people that specialize in personalized service and operate as a cohesive unit. The team treats its clients like members of the Maison Jolie
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
family with individualized notices when new items of interest arrive at the store and invitations to fashionable events in Houston and Austin. Each of her associates has also been trained in bra-fitting, and the boutique has been featured on a local TV station to demonstrate to women how important a properly-fitting bra is for their comfort and health. Due to the success of Maison Jolie in lingerie and swimwear over its first two years, the boutique recently expanded into the space immediately next to its original location and now offers ready-towear clothing and accessories. Many of its key clients are ecstatic with the growth since they can now shop for exceptional shoes, bags and dresses while also picking up a few sexy lingerie items as well. But remaining steadfast is Lauren’s commitment to top-quality and an all-star team. “The expansion allows my team and I to add stylish outerwear and accessories to our line-up of out-of-this-world lingerie and swimwear” commented Lauren. She continued “We would love to see you in Houston or have you visit us online or on social media.”
FINE LINGERIE, SWIMWEAR & READY-TO-WEAR
maisonjolie.co
SPECIALTY SERVICES
AS Special Events UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGES OF EVENT HOSTING HOSTING AN EVENT CAN be a very
stressful and exhausting process, whether it is a wedding, corporate or a small private event. There are many details to pay attention to, from choosing the date, booking the venue, to deciding on the theme and decor, everything requires details. At AS Special Events, we understand these challenges that our clients face and assist them in the process of planning their special events, with sensitivity to details and professionalism to ensure a successful event. Over the years, we have serviced events ranging from backyard parties to fully servicing large city festivals like Taste of Danforth. Our core values and ethical principles paired with our unmatchable service are only a few reasons why our clients continuously choose AS Special Events. Therefore, in an attempt to better serve our loyal clients, we have extended our service to • Operating 7 days a week • 24/7 live chat service through site • Delivery, product assembly, and pickup services within the GTA • Updated inventory line every 6 months • Predetermined discount rate for partners and Event Planners • Price matching with competitors • And we accept last minute orders!
138 Summer/Fall 2018
“
AS an Event Coordinator, I have worked with numerous rental companies, but none of them are as reliable and accurate as AS Special Events. Two days ago, I placed an order for the NEXT DAY and they had no issues fulfilling this request right away. Highly recommended! ”
Being in the industry for over 20 years, we have the expertise to provide our clients with more than rental services. In addition to our wide selection of inventory rentals, including chairs, tables, tents, dishes and cutlery, linens, lounge furniture, and bar supplies, etc, we also provide event consultation and referrals to other services like catering and decor for your special events. Our in-house event planners can support you in the planning and coordination process, so all you have to do is invite the guests and we will take care of the rest! As a one-stop shop for all your event planning needs, we strive in providing exceptional personal services for each one of our clients, as we value your trust in our business. Having had the honour of accepting the Consumer Top Choice Award for the past three consecutive years, and the 2018’s top choice award for Top Event Rental company, it is no secret that AS Special Events has achieved
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
overwhelming success! And we want to thank our clients for their trust and loyalty to us over the years. Therefore, in an effort to give back, AS Special Events has contributed to various charities and social organizations, including Walk in a Mile in Her shoes, Hope for Rawenda, and Griffin Centre: Everybody Counts.
416.757.2100 80 midwest Rd. unit 20-24, Toronto, Ontario, M1P 4R2 info@asspecialevents.com asspecialevents.com INSTAGRAM /ASspecialevents Facebook-square @ASSpecialEvents Twitter-Square @as_specialevents
“YOU INVITE THE GUESTS AND WE’LL DO THE REST!”
Full-Service Wedding & Event Rental Chair & Tables, Tents, Lounge Furniture, Dishes & Glasses, Catering Equipment, Linen, Staging & Flooring, Bar Supplies, BBQ Supplies and much more...
Wedding • Corporate • Private Voted Top Choice 20 18
Party & Tent Rentals of 2018 in Toronto
416-757-2100 • 80 Midwest Rd. unit 20-24, Toronto, On • ASSPECIALEVENTS.COM
PROFESSIONAL CLEANING, ATTENTION TO DETAIL & CUSTOM SERVICE
3 LOCATIONS IN THE GTA
PICKUP & DELIVERY SERVICE
SOUTH WOODBRIDGE 630 ABERDEEN AVE. 905-851-9953
20 1 8
VAUGHAN’S TOP CHOICE • 4 YEARS
NORTH WOODBRIDGE 4101 RUTHERFORD RD. 905-851-1818
KING CITY 1700 KING RD. 905-833-7337
NORTHPARKCLEANERS.COM
FAMILY JEWELLERS IN MISSISSAUGA
JEWELLERY REPAIRS AND SERVICES
CASH FOR GOLD GUARANTEED RATES
10K, 14K, 18K & 22K Gold Sterling Silver Jewellery Diamond Jewellery Gemstone & Pearl Jewellery Watches Engagement & Wedding Rings
Traditional and skilled jewellery services are still alive. In-house jewellery and watch repairs are our specialty, as well as custom, handmade jewellery, engravings, and gold plating.
Receive cash for your gold with the option of repurchasing it within 90 days. We encourage you to take advantage of our buyback option, and our rates are guaranteed.
3038 HURONTARIO ST. MISSISSAUGA, ON 905-615-9009 • VALENCIAJEWELLERY.COM
20 18
Multiple Top Choice Winner Best Insurance Broker
SPECIALTY SERVICES
Fiesta Rentals CREATING MEMORABLE EVENTS YOU’LL NEVER FORGET! THERE ARE LOTS OF event planning and party planning businesses that exist in and around the greater Toronto area, but most want nothing more than for you to tell them your order and move on so that they can go about their day. That’s not how we work at Fiesta Rentals.ca. We believe that every event is different and that each one should overflow with fun, function, and unique memories. Our goal is always to craft the perfect party or event for each client, and that means working with you to make sure that you’re going to be getting something fun, memorable, and, yes, even magical. In order to do this, we try to learn about the type of event you want, the space you have available, and the people who will be attending so that we can cater to your specific needs. Often, this means that we end up spending quite a bit of time working directly with each client and on their individual events.
142 Summer/Fall 2018
Other companies might not ask for as much of your attention, but with us, you’re not just using a rental service and having party favors delivered. You’re getting a partner who will make sure that your event is extraordinary. Even after you’ve completed the initial planning stages with us and put in your order, you can always contact us with questions or concerns. Our friendly and experienced staff will be happy to help you out and assure that your needs are being met.
WE ARE ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR EVENTS NEEDS! Party Planning Is a Calling: Who We Are Claudia Rivas opened the doors of Fiesta Rentals.ca in 2002, and the company has been helping people in and around the Toronto area to craft unforgettable events. But if you ask her about it, Ms. Rivas will tell you that her career in party planning
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
really began much earlier – way back when she was a child herself. At the age of 11, Rivas discovered her knack for entertaining others, and was almost always putting on a show for someone or other. Sometimes it was in a more formal setting like the school play, but just as often she was making people laugh and cheer by dancing, pretending to be some kind of fictional character, or engaging in some other kind of antics. Others recognized her talents as well, and by the time she turned 13, Rivas was already hosting parties for other kids. That’s where she discovered her true calling: creating magical and unforgettable events for people by discovering what they really enjoyed and giving them exactly what they wanted. To learn more about Fiesta Rentals, visit them online at FiestaRentals.ca
Phone: (905) 738-5437 Toll-free: 1 877 472 5058 Email: info@fiestarentals.ca UNIT 16 - 10 Westcreek Drive Woodbridge, ON L4L 9R5
SPECIALTY SERVICES
What's your Unexpected Property Damage Plan? DO YOU KNOW WHO TO CALL? ARE YOU SURE THAT THE COMPANY YOU ARE CALLING WILL ANSWER? WHAT IF IT'S A HOLIDAY OR MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT? Voted Top Choice 20 18
Restoration Company of 2018 in the GTA
RESTORATION & RECONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS
416-747-1613 ntccanada.com
144 Summer/Fall 2018
AT NU-TREND CONSTRUCTION WE are your first responders following
significant damage to your home or business after fire, flood, water damage, sewer backup, windstorm and other major events. Our team is ready for your call, 24 hours a day 7 days a week including holidays. We handle all types of commercial, industrial, condominium and residential property claims. From a small residential basement flood to a large commercial fire, Nu-Trend Construction will be there to help ensure consistency, dedication and support. We work as a team to provide our clients with the confidence to make quick, sound decisions during devastating situations. When disasters occur, Nu-Trend is ready. Family run and operated for over 40 years, Nu-Trend has gained recognition as one of the most dependable Restoration Contractors in the Insurance industry servicing Toronto and the GTA. We promise all of our clients that they will be treated
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
with respect, dignity and honesty during the claims process to ensure a positive claim experience. Our mission, vision and values all revolve around outstanding results and customer satisfaction. Once you notice damage to your home or business, Nu-Trend begins with our “Mitigation Team” also known as “Emergency Services” or “Clean Up”. Once your home or business is cleaned, the “Nu-Trend Restoration Team” moves in and takes over by repairing and rebuilding the damaged property. Our professionals are skilled in working closely with Insurance companies, Engineers, Insurance Adjusters, Architects, Property Managers, on your behalf to establish a reasonable and acceptable solution to your property loss. After carefully analyzing the damage, we make professional recommendations on how to best proceed. At Nu-Trend Construction, we value accountability, ethical and honest interactions. We are proud to say that “we are well respected, and the pillars of excellence upon which this company was founded continue to be a competitive advantage for us.” Disasters do not have regular business hours, neither does Nu-Trend! We are available any time, any day! All calls are answered, no voicemail. At this time we would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation and thanks to each and every person who supports Nu-Trend Construction and for voting us you’re 2016, 2017 and 2018 Top Choice Winner.
When catastrophe strikes… call the insurance claim specialists.
RESTORATION & RECONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS
Providing unparalleled service to residential, commercial and condominium clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
416-747-1613 Visit us at ntccanada.com or connect on
Voted Top Choice 20 18
Restoration Company of 2018 in the GTA
SPECIALTY SERVICES
MICHELLE TAO and DOUG KWONG Owners of Woofur Dog & Cat Services
Woofur Dog & Cat Services A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO PET CARE YOUR DOG OR CAT is so much more than just a pet - they’re family! When it comes to your furry companions, you want to be sure that they’re always in good hands. Offering a holistic approach to pet care, with a complimentary blend of products and services focused on industry-leading excellence, Woofur is an award-winning, all-in-one, comprehensive pet care center that offers pet wellness consultations, behavioral consultations, natural animal therapies, dog training, doggy daycare, overnight services, dog grooming, cat grooming and cat sitting services in Richmond Hill and Vaughan. Behind this award-winning business are Michelle Tao and her husband, Doug Kwong, who are passionate entrepreneurs committed to providing the best quality care and service to their two and fourlegged clients. Their mission is to set new standards in the industry, making a difference for pets and their owners’ lives and to have Woofur’s brand become synonymous for experts in quality pet care. As consumers are becoming better informed about healthy lifestyle choices for themselves, so are pet owners who are also actively making similar choices for their furry companions. With help
146 Summer/Fall 2018
from Woofur, clients are guided to making smarter choices for their pets that improve their mental and physical health through their holistic approach. Whether it be nutritional consultations, alternative physical therapies, or behavioural modifications, Woofur has you covered! The Woofur team believes that for pets to live a long and fulfilling life, one that has a deep and meaningful connection with their owners, one must find an optimal balance between physical health, internal health and social well-being. With two locations conveniently located in Richmond Hill and Vaughan, Woofur’s modern, safe, clean, cage-free and state-of-the-art facilities offer a variety of services to surrounding neighbourhood pets. Their 5000 square-foot facility in Vaughan has three daycare zones to accommodate dogs of differing play energies, as well as a secured outdoor area for daycare guests to run around. For clients who want to experience the best of both locations, but cannot travel there themselves, Woofur provides a daily shuttle between the two facilities. Woofur welcomes prospective clients who have dogs or cats, or even those who are considering getting a pet for the first
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
20 18
Voted Top Choice Pet Services of 2018 in Richmond Hill
time, to come visit them in store, check out their website (www.woofur.ca) and social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube) for a wealth of information about pet health, wellness and maintenance. The Woofur blog contains articles that are “top of mind” for pet owners, encouraging them to make informed and healthy choices for their dog or cat. If you are in the York Region area, why not drop in and see for yourself why clients make Woofur their Top Choice for Pet Services!
416-238-7358 • woofur.ca Richmond Hill 1285 Elgin Mills Rd E Unit #3-4, Richmond Hill, ON Vaughan 661 Chrislea Road Unit 7-9 Vaughan, ON
From Wedding flowers to “Just Because” flowers. Blooming Wellies Flower Boutique appeals to those who appreciate luxurious style, creativity and exceptional service.
20 18
(905) 657-8984
171 Main St S, Unit 1 Newmarket, On
bloomingwelliesflower.com
SPECIALTY SERVICES
20 18
Tigris 5 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING AN EVENT STAFFING & EXPERIENTIAL MARKETING AGENCY Choosing the right event staffing and experiential marketing company is crucial to producing a successful event. How do you select the best agency for your specific needs and goals? We suggest asking these 5 questions to ensure a perfect partnership.
1. HOW DO YOU FIND YOUR EVENTS STAFF?
VOTED BEST EVENT STAFFING AGENCY 3 YEARS IN A ROW! Our award-winning personnel, promotions, marketing and events are available nationwide, across Canada. Get a quote today! Call 416-283-9119 or go online: tigriseventsinc.com
148 Summer/Fall 2018
Whether the agency is actively recruiting new talent or sorting through an influx of online resumes, it’s important to understand where the candidates are coming from. Are they using social media or job posting sites to attract new talent? How often are they replenishing and refreshing their current roster? Although it may seem unnecessary for an event staffing agency to continuously recruit, it’s a huge part of the agencies role. Attracting top talent in major (and niche) markets is a talent in itself!
2. WHAT SUPPORT DO YOU PROVIDE THROUGHOUT THE PLANNING PROCESS? Don’t just hope for the best while working with events staff. An account manager should be assigned to your account, who will walk you through the process of selecting, preparing and delegating tasks to the team. Knowing which deliverables to expect from the agency will help avoid last minute surprises and manage expectations from both sides. Look for an agency that’s transparent with their timelines, capabilities and prices.
T P CHOICE MAGAZINE
3. HOW DO YOU MANAGE A LARGE TEAM (OF 50+ STAFF)? Onsite management is crucial. With a large team of events staff, there must be someone onsite from the agency to delegate duties, oversee staff, manage breaks and be your main point of contact throughout the day. How many ‘managers’ do they provide per quantity of staff? What is the manager responsible for? These are all important questions to ask if you require a large team.
4. CAN YOUR COMPANY ASSIST WITH LOGISTICS? It’s usually easier to deal with a fullservice agency instead of sourcing your unique event components from different vendors. Ask if the agency handles booth design, vehicle and storage rentals, staff uniforms, and promotional product giveaways, to name a few. That way their support is there if you need it!
5. WHAT DO YOU PROVIDE POST-EVENT? If an ‘invoice’ is their answer, you may want to keep looking. Although you may only require staffing support, the agency should still provide you with a detailed report. This report may include consumer testimonials and insight directly from the staff. It’s important to learn from those who interacted directly with your consumer. This report may help you decide whether you’ll execute the same event again, what worked and what didn’t. Simply put, here at Tigris, we create, plan, and staff unforgettable experiences that build brands and businesses nationwide across North America. To learn more about how event staffing and experiential marketing can boost your brand, give us a call at 416.283.9119.
Trust. Commitment. Excellence. At Davies Law Firm, we believe In keeping our promises and doing the right thing. With a commitment to service excellence, we deliver legal solutions to clients that achieve results.
VOTED OTTAWA’S TOP CHOICE FOR FAMILY LAW SERVICES
20 18
613-688-0462 daviesdivorcelaw.com
20 18
VAUGHAN 2-3611 Major Mackenzie Dr. 905 553 7778 TORONTO 6-2085 Lawrence Ave. E 416 901 7778
TASIOSORTHO.COM