Meet Katy! Katy is originally from Toronto and has been living here in the beautiful Okanagan for ten years now. She enjoys hiking with her pups, sneaking away for some quiet time by the water, and spending some quality time with her family.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I moved from Toronto in 2009. The Okanagan feels like home.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
That's a tough one. My life is rich with pretty incredible people. I couldn't narrow it down to just one favourite.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I'd have to say FarmBound. They have filled a gap that Kelowna has been aching for, making zero waste much more approachable for people.
Describe yourself in one word.
Sentimental.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I'd like to go back to Scotland. That's where my family is from, and I'd like more time to explore it.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love to walk and hike with my three rescue pups. There is so much beauty to experience here in the Okanagan.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I've sent some pretty embarrassing text messages to the wrong people.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Working with youth. Baring witness to their resiliency inspires me every. single. day.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Summers spent at our family cabin in Northern Ontario. Picking wild blueberries and swimming all day long with my brother.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
A variety of animal rescues + the Gospel Mission.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Inspire more compassion in people.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Anywhere by the water.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think there is more to be done to support our most vulnerable community members. Mental health is grossly under serviced not just in Kelowna but across Canada. There is opportunity for us here in Kelowna to make positive changes to lift up those in need. I'd like to see shelter and mental health support services available to everyone.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
We live in such an abundant valley. It's landscape is so dreamy.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
I'd like to ...
1. Learn how to sail + live on the water.
2. Become fluent in a second language.
3. Visit all 7 continents.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I'm a pretty big Tolkien nerd.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram @itskatyeileen
What is the name of your business/organization?
Gold & Loom
Why did you get into/start this business?
In partnership with my dearest friend Jenna, we were inspired to create a positive change in the beauty industry.
What is the goal of your business?
We want to provide beautiful, holistic altenatives to help people achieve whole body wellness, to create products that are safe for people, animals and the planet!
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Setting boundaries.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would do it all the same. I think every choice has brought me to this moment. Every action has had lessons weaved through it. As long as I move forward being mindful of what I've learned along the way, I know things will be alright.
What do you always find yourself saying?
You can do it!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Allow yourself to be vulnerable, and stay true to yourself. Comparison is the thief of joy."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My dad. He's the best. It can tug my heart strings living so far apart.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I think it's important to support local businesses and choose items that were crafted with care and intention.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Gold & Loom!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My girl, Jenna Hill. She is the other half of Gold & Loom. Jenna made this dream a reality!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Arion Therapeutic Farms
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I'm really grateful for this platform to introduce myself and share a bit about Gold & Loom. Thank you, Kelowna Now!
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!
