In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Desiree Thring.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I grew up in Kelowna but moved to Vancouver in 2009. I moved back home to Kelowna in 2015.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My mom. She has always been my biggest cheerleader and has always had my back even when it meant tough love.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would probably have to say Thailand because I am craving an epic adventure.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Purnama Style Lounge. I might be a bit bias because I work there but it is so unique and the moment you step foot in the door you can tell it was made with love. The salon is travel inspired and full of beautiful trinkets and our team is truly amazing.
What is your favourite activity?
I love long walks with my dog. I also love enjoying great food with good friends.
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
Tacos hands down!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Too many to narrow it down to just one.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Moving to Vancouver. Having the opportunity to reinvent yourself is a powerful thing. That chapter in my life taught me so much and it was where I grew the most as a person.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favorite childhood memory would have to be a road trip to Disneyland with my family and my best friends when I was nine.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I don't volunteer in any single place in particular but if there is a need at a certain time and I am available I love to take part. I have volunteered with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and as a team, Purnama has given back to the Women's Shelter. In Vancouver I volunteered with the local food bank as well.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That is a loaded question because there are so many things I would change if I could. Those changes would include protecting basic human rights, animal rights, equality, and everything in between.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Anything outdoors and enjoying a glass of wine with my girlfriends in one of the many great local establishments.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I have two different 10 kilometer loops that I love to walk. One in West Kelowna and one downtown.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see more culture and activities for families.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Kelowna has beautiful beaches, amazing wineries and great people.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel the world
2. Have a successful career
3. One day raise a family
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
When I was 14, I took a photo in Florida that got published in a National Geographic coffee table picture book.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
On Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
I am an independent hair stylist working out of Purnama Style Lounge.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I knew from a very young age that it was what I wanted to do. I am super creative, social and love the freedom that this career choice gives me.
What is the goal of your business?
To make people feel beautiful. It is definitely the highlight of my job and I feel truly blessed that I can do that for my clients.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
My perfectionism. It is my strength but also what I struggle with most. It causes me to overthink many things.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I wouldn't change a thing.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Character is what you do when nobody's watching' and 'We are a product of the choices we make in life'
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Tony Robbins.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It supports the local economy, it creates jobs and creates a sense of community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Going back to school at the age of 30 and pursuing what I am passionate about.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Neeva Kine. Thank you for nominating me for the In Focus Spotlight!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Courtney Weller. She is the founder of Purnama Style Lounge. She is not only a savvy and creative business owner, but she is also incredible person.
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, Kelowna.
