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?
Emma Ledyard
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
My childhood was spent in Lake Country and I have lived in Kelowna for the past eight years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband Sam, he challenges me, loves me and laughs both with and at me. We have fun.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Beijing, I have some people I would love to catch up with.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Old Town Market, I love having a locally owned grocer close to home where I can purchase a wide variety of local/organic products for both my daycare and myself.
What is your favourite activity?
Depending on the day it is probably a tie between Netflix and going on adventures outside with Cuzco the dog.
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
I can’t choose, love them all.
What is a hidden gem you enjoy in the Okanagan?
Oyama Lake for camping and lake activities
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I cannot pick out a particular thing as being the most inspiring. I am fortunate to be surrounded by many inspiring people and have had many inspiring moments.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I will always remember playing at my grandparents’ farm in Sorrento; it was a beautiful place to spend so much time outside.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have been casually supporting Inn from the Cold for the past few months with supply donations, they are a wonderful organization and I would highly recommend getting in touch with them if you are looking for an important cause to support.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would like to see a kinder world. More open hearts, and less judgement.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking with our dog Cuzco.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see more community space/ event development, we have such an amazing space to call home and it would be wonderful to have more opportunities to explore it and meet other like-minded people.
If you could be granted one wish for work or in life, what would it be?
A loaded answer but to keep it short the wish would be happiness in perpetuity.
What is the name of your business/organization?
The Purple Door Daycare
What does your business do?
I provide childcare for children between the ages of one and five.
How do people connect with you through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
You can find us on Facebook at The Purple Door Daycare
Where can people find your business online?
thepurpledoordaycare.com
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have been in the childcare field for over 15 years now, in varying capacities, and have always loved it. I was looking for a new and more stable adventure. We had just purchased our first house, the timing was right and the opportunity/support was there.
What is the goal of your business?
To provide a safe, nurturing, and fun environment for children to grow and thrive in! The Purple Door Daycare is my journey to offer a childcare program that gives each individual child the tools and opportunities that they need to develop into their wonderful selves. I provide all meals and beverages throughout the day and strive for them to be organic, gluten free and locally sourced whenever possible. I use both Urban Harvest and the Farmers' Market weekly which provides the kids with access to wonderful produce and helps me do my part to support other local businesses.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
Probably the same. I have no regrets, just an overwhelming feeling of love and gratitude.
Why do you think it is important to shop local?
Shopping local supports people in your town, is more sustainable, and helps foster a deeper sense of community.
Give someone that you think deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Everyone in my life deserves a shout out! I have been extremely fortunate to have had the right people in my life at the right time and I am forever grateful for the help, love, support, and kindness I have been given. Also, thanks Susan of Gramma Momma and Me for the nomination.
My nomination for the In Focus spotlight is:
Bai Tong and its owners. I’ve been a long-time patron and would love to know more about my favorite Thai place!
Other information you would like to share:
We have one spot open either full or part time for another four-year-old partner in adventure!
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!
