Meet Tanya. Tanya has moved to Kamloops 2 years ago and is the owner and founder of Tanya's Workbench.

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
We lived in Spruce Grove for 25 years and finally made it back to BC 2 years ago, one of the best decisions we’ve made.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Absolutely my husband, we try to hit a different lake or trail almost every weekend.

What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Recently I spend almost everyday at Oxygen Yoga and Fitness! They are all so supportive and encouraging, they help you Love Your Life a little bit more everyday.

Describe yourself in one word.
Stubborn is what some would say… but I believe it’s not a negative thing, I just give  [💯]  If I believe in something that I can do.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
My husband and I packed up our car a few years ago with not much of a plan and traveled from Spruce Grove to Tofino on no timeline… best trip ever! I’d love to be able to do it again but through the Kootneys this time.

What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Anywhere exploring outdoors.



What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Nothing I can think of…I don’t really get embarrassed easily.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I’m inspired everyday to show my kids to never give up on your dreams and aspirations.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
It would have to be the endless hours before and after school training for our swim club.

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I do my best to attend and help out where I can at all the community and nearby running races, and recently I’ve been donating my signs to help out as donations and raffle prices. I’m looking forward to helping out more in the near future.



If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Making it more accessible for students to be able to afford to go to College/University so they can follow their dreams in the business world.

Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Anywhere on a quiet lake.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would love to see the importance of exercise and physical activity shared with children and their families.

What do you think makes Kamloops great?
Outside of the community supporting small businesses, it would have to be, accessing hundreds of lakes within 2 hours or less.

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Qualifying for the Boston Marathon 
2. Renewing our wedding vows for our 25th Anniversary next year anywhere on a beach 
3. Travel Canada with my husband exploring all the little hidden gems along the way

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’ve had Epilepsy for over 30 years, but doing everything I can to keep myself healthy by eating healthy, exercising and sleep as much as I can.



How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook and Instagram.

What is the name of your business/organization?
Tanya’s Workbench.

Why did you get into/start this business?
I made my first sign at the Barn Owl back home about 4 years ago. I loved the atmosphere and the relaxed feeling I got when I was making signs, and then when we moved here I had some health issues and decided this would be a great time to start something.

What is the goal of your business?
I would love to just help support my family, and have one of my pieces in every home in Kamloops… why not right?

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Probably starting over in Kamloops, but it’s finally all coming together.

What do you always find yourself saying?
Thank you… but what I always say to myself when training or finding the sign business a little hard is “I Do It For Me.”



Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Always do it for yourself, do what makes you happy.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
A whole 24 hours hidden away in a cabin with my husband hiking and exploring.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I do my best to support small businesses in and around Kamloops because I know they build their business on love and supporting others.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising 2 very beautiful and strong girls that never give up on their dreams.



Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Kristy from Go Fetch! A kind small business owner who supports her community and followed her dream of owning this Pet Store, also because she recently asked me to make some of my signs for her to sell out of Go Fetch!

My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Go Fetch in Valleyview.

Some general comments I would like to share are:
I want to thank Kamloops BCNow for taking the time to support and showcase businesses around town! I am very grateful to be chosen and hope to be able to do business with anyone interested in my handcrafted wooden signs!

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. Thank you, Kamloops.

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!