Meet Alanna! She is originally from Saskatoon and just recently launched her own salon in November of 2019!
![<who> Photo Credit: Alanna Olivares](https://imagedelivery.net/rCY_-t_NaBnc_UkEr8yoCA/49e249d9-27f9-4be4-8aef-75e58aaa4100/instory)
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I am from Saskatoon and have been in Kelowna for over 2 years now.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My boyfriend, Damien. We both enjoy the outdoors and trying new things. Since we moved we have had a blast getting to know the Okanagan exploring beaches, hiking trails, camping, fishing, and snowboarding!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
The Vibrant Vine is such a unique and enjoyable winery that offers a lot more than a nice bottle of wine. The winery is filled with art, often has live music and hosts events that are intriguing and fun.
Describe yourself in one word.
Determined.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Annecy, France. I got to go there with my family in 2017 it was absolutely stunning in its beauty. It was a priviledge to experience and I would not hesitate if I had the opportunity to go again.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Jet skiing on the lake in the summer and in the winter snowboarding at Big White.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I once fell into an empty pool in a friends yard. It was dark out and I had such a hard time finding my way out I had to text the people inside to come help me.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
My mom has really been an inspiration in my decision to start a business on my own. She had a few different careers while I was growing up and all of them were good in different ways, but she kept looking and making changes in order to find a career that she loves. Her willingness to change careers inspired me to make the change that I did and start the amazing career and business I have today.
![<who> Photo Credit: Alanna Olivares](https://imagedelivery.net/rCY_-t_NaBnc_UkEr8yoCA/c833c355-9025-4716-7f7d-6c57beac5f00/instory)
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
When I was four years old my mom took me to Chile for 3 months. It was a wonderful experience spending time family there and learning about chilean culture.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
This year we got to participate in the 2019 Kelowna Santas Toy Drive.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I feel like lot of the problems the world has today could be resolved if the everyone could be more accepting of each other.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I like to watch the water it can be so calming. We have so many beaches here it is never hard to find a place to sit and take in the beauty of the lake.
Where would you like to see a positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think the city will benefit from improvements of our roadways and public transit.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
It is a really happy and fun place to be. We get to enjoy living by many beautiful lakes and mountains so living here we have no shortage of fun things to do all year round.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Visit the Philippines and countless other countries,
2. Go skydiving,
3. Try paragliding!
![<who> Photo Credit: Alanna Olivares](https://imagedelivery.net/rCY_-t_NaBnc_UkEr8yoCA/27cc361e-1cb1-41e0-458b-688a17974a00/instory)
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I like to go hunting.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Luminesce Artistry Website
Facebook
Instagram
What is the name of your business/organization?
Luminesce Artistry
Why did you get into this business?
I was drawn to eye lash extensions as a part-time job that I thought I might enjoy as well as supplement my income. I ended up loving it so much I transitioned to it full time, expanded into a variety of other services, and eventually launched my own business here in Kelowna.
What is the goal of your business?
We provide a variety of services to accentuate the natural beauty of our customers. When they feel beautiful I feel accomplished
![<who> Photo Credit: Alanna Olivares](https://imagedelivery.net/rCY_-t_NaBnc_UkEr8yoCA/5495434a-557d-4af0-7ee5-70840be6e100/instory)
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
To to do it all. A balanced work and home life that meets all the expectations we set for ourselves is not easy.
If you could start all over again, would you do things the same or would things be different?
No, I am happy where I am, what I have, and who I am.
What do you always find yourself saying?
I need more time in a day.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Try new things!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My brother Nolan. We live in different cities and do not get to spend enough time together but now that he is going to be playing with the Kelowna Rockets I am excited to get that chance.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Buying locally is supporting locals and the more we support one another the more our city thrives.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My business Grand Opening in November 2019 was one of those moments where I really felt the progress I have made working so hard to start and run the business.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My boyfriend Damien for all the love and support he gives me.
![<who> Photo Credit: Alanna Olivares](https://imagedelivery.net/rCY_-t_NaBnc_UkEr8yoCA/da75b20a-ff00-4fec-19b7-66d7a3b63700/instory)
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Xoxo Esthetics.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!