Meet Magnolia! Magnolia is originally from the Phillippines and has been living here in Kelowna for five years. She enjoys wine tasting at her favourite local wineries here in the Okanagan and spending some time by the lake with her family. 

Photo Credit: Amanda Rentiers Photography
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Born in the Philippines. Grew up in Brunei Darussalam. Went to college and worked for a few years in the Philippines. Migrated and lived in Vancouver before moving to the Okanagan where I’ve been living for 5 years.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
The whole family. My husband, daughters, dad, mom, sisters, nieces, nephew, brothers-in-law, mother-in-law and father-in-law. I’m happiest when I’m around them.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Stores that support handmade or handcrafted items like the Handmade Shoppe. It’s full of unique items, making it easy to find gifts for the whole family in one stop.

Describe yourself in one word.
Thoughtful.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
The Philippines. I love going back to my roots. I always enjoy being around relatives and close friends. Oh and the beaches! With more than 7,000 islands, there is an abundance of breathtaking and picturesque beaches to enjoy.

Photo Credit: Dulik Studio
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
In the summer, sitting by the lake and watching my family enjoy the waters. Also wine tasting at our favourite wineries.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Ask me to say 'hippopotamus'. I cannot pronounce it right, no matter how hard I try! Once, I said it in front of a group of six year olds. They laughed like they just heard the funniest joke on earth!

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Being a mom. It’s a roller coaster of emotions every day. There are many frustrating times and I’d catch myself sounding like my mom. I'd be mad, smiling and feeling grateful (for my parents) at the same time. There are also times, I think I don’t do or am enough, then I’ll hear my little one say, “I want to be a mom just like you, mama. You take care of me the best”. Parenthood is an inspiring ride, hands down!

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
The kids in the neighbourhood would play outside unsupervised (sometimes till 9 pm at night). We would bike everywhere til our legs hurt. We climbed old buildings (we got in so much trouble for that), played in ditches with mud and flowers, walked to the beach (which was only 10min from home).

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Food plays a huge part in the Filipino culture. It’s in my nature to help feed the community – food bank donations, going out to the streets with plates of a full meal or hot drinks and sandwiches. During the Christmas season, I make extra jewellery as gifts to girls and women in need.

Photo Credit: Amanda Rentiers Photography
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
More love. More love equals less judgement, less hate, less jealousy, less selfishness, less racism, less negativity. Eventually, equals to world peace 🙂

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
At a cafe. Sipping a good cup of tea latte, catching up on emails, messages or coming up with new designs.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
To have more kid-friendly festivals. There is a growing number of young families in Kelowna and I think more family-oriented events will be a win for kids and adults!

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
It amazes me, people from all over the world come here to enjoy the beauty of the lakes, mountains, vineyards, orchards, etc. For us, it only takes a short walk or drive to get to these beautiful spots.

Photo Credit: Dulik Studio
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. To visit Spain and learn more about my ancestry.
2. To have a girls trip around France with my daughters when they’re older.
3. To dance the tango with my husband in Argentina.

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I have a lot of nicknames – Mag, Mags, Maggie, Ma-ann, Ann. My nieces call me 'Ate' (big sister in Tagalog). My parents and sisters call me 'Che' (big sister in Hokkien).

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram – @magnoliagiroux and my website – www.magnoliagiroux.com or Etsy account – www.magnoliagiroux.etsy.com

What is the name of your business/organization?
Magnolia Giroux Jewellery

Why did you get into/start this business?
I was looking for a set of pearl necklace and bracelet for my then 18-month-old girl. I couldn’t find an affordable, no nickel/no lead jewellery for children with sensitive skin. So I made her one. I haven't stopped making no nickel/no lead jewellery since.

Photo Credit: Amanda Rentiers Photography
What is the goal of your business?
To be recognized globally.

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Saying no to junk food and live a healthier lifestyle.

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
In life, I wouldn't change a thing. I love how every challenge unfolded (in its own time) to blessings. In business, I’d like to change decisions that didn’t profit and cost me a lot of dollars.

What do you always find yourself saying?
"Sheesh kebobs!" I say it every time a bead or a small component bounces off the table which happens a lot.

Photo Credit: Amanda Rentiers Photography
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
I have so many but it all comes down to – saying a prayer or affirmation every day. Like if you find yourself comparing to others, say a nice affirmation for yourself and a little prayer for that person, you'll eventually see a positive change in your life.

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My grandmother. My only living grandparent. We have a very close bond. She’s old and we’re miles apart so to spend one whole day with her would be priceless!

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
#1- I know how much time and heart the local farmers, artists, makers, creatives put into their work to make the locals happy. #2- When you buy locally, not only do you support a Canadian livelihood, but you are also investing on your community's future.

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being pregnant (naturally) and giving birth to my two daughters. Doctors told me I had a slim chance or I couldn’t get pregnant. So when I defied the odds, TWICE, that’s an accomplishment!

Photo Credit: Amanda Rentiers Photography
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Christina of Dulik Studio. She’s a very talented creative who helped me with the startup of Magnolia Giroux website, logo, cards, etc. She also gives great business advice and lots of encouragement.

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
It's so hard to decide on just one because these ladies are so inspiring – Tara Nakashima and Kelly Craig of Invati Yoga and Karalyn Lockhart of Craft Culture/Tall Cloud Productions.

Some general comments I would like to share are:
I couldn't do this business without the support of my husband. You probably see him helping at some of my shows. He always comes up with awesome business ideas and advice (some are his brother's), stamps my packaging, take care of our girls while I work, so much more to mention and yet, he never complains. And, also without the support of my whole family. They’ve been my #1 cheerleader since day one.

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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!