Meet Laura, she has been a resident of Kelowna on and off for 10 years. Laura runs a local wine consulting and event planning business, she loves to use her creativity to plan awesome events around the Okanagan. When she isn't working, you will probably find her at a winery sippin' wine and soaking up the sunshine.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My partner, Andreas. He's someone who fully understands me and we have so many common interests – the main focus being food and wine.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Lost Together – it's owned by a friend of mine, Shannon LeBlanc and she just has the best eye for fashion and unique pieces.
Describe yourself in one word.
Unconventional
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
SE Asia, I've travelled there several times and I just love the vibe, the weather, the food, and the laid-back nature.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Putting on events for my friends, family and clients – I've always had a passion and an eye for curating really unique, creative and sexy events.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Probably posting things, after too much wine, on Instagram, that I really shouldn't be posting. It's gotten me into some sticky situations in the past.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Starting my blog/consulting company, and receiving incredible and positive feedback on my abilities and knowledge. For years, I felt so down, uninspired and scared of success – I honestly thought I wasn't capable or deserving of achieving it. A shift in perspective (which is a daily practice) opened up a world of people, experiences and lessons I had never allowed myself to be exposed to.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
When my parents took us on a trip to Jamaica, and we hiked a waterfall. I was only six, but it still feels like it was yesterday.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have done extensive volunteering throughout my life. I coached Special Olympics swimming, walked dogs at the SPCA, spent time with the elderly at assisted living facilities, and every one of my events always has a charity that I sponsor and donate proceeds to.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Removed judgement, and being kinder to one another when we make mistakes.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Paul's Tomb.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
More culture, and exciting and interesting things to do see and try. It's definitely changing rapidly and for the better, but it would be nice to see it in a greater capacity – more interesting and creative food, music, and experiences.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The location
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- Make my own wine
- Open a wine bar in a shipping container
- Become a master of wine
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
Despite a confident exterior, I am extremely hard on myself and anxious and insecure about everything that I do.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
@silkandcoupe on all platforms
What is the name of your business/organization?
SILK + COUPE
Why did you get into/start this business?
My "purpose", "reason why", is to connect, educate and learn.
What is the goal of your business?
To provide a platform where I can assist others in learning all about wine, and the wine trade, the importance of hospitality and how integral it is for positive experiences especially at wineries.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Not learning from past mistakes. I'm a slow learner and a late bloomer.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would do it the exact same. I think everything happens for a reason and in a specific manner and time frame.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Be real, honest, authentic and vulnerable.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Be kind to yourself, and practice self-awareness. Learn to take accountability on how you can be and do better, as opposed to always placing blame.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Jancis Robinson.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
So many reasons – the carbon footprint, it's better for the environment, there's a better awareness of where your products come from, and then, of course, supporting our fellow entrepreneurs and neighbours.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Finding the confidence to start my business and put myself out there in a real way even though I was terrified.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Grayson Riordan – he gave me an opportunity when I needed it and it resulted in so much more than just a working relationship. His intelligence, capacity for building real relationships, and the love he showers on everyone around him, is so infectious.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
I'm not sure I understand this question
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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!
