Meet Sharon Bootsman. She's from St. Albert, Alberta and has been in Kelowna for 28 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family. I have a great fiance who supports everything I do, I have loving and successful daughters and an adorable granddaughter.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
The Mediterranean Market. It's my favourite because of the great service, great pricing and it feels like a mini European vacation when I walk in the door.
Describe yourself in one word.
Creative.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Scotland. It's at the top of my bucket list to see where my family came from.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Going downtown in the summer to see things like Parks Alive and to walk along the water.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
There are so many worth mentioning but the one that people always remind me of is the night at a party where someone had shut the screen door that was previously left open all evening. So when I walked through it next I took out the screen and frame.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Knowing that I've created this business and am succeeding and growing every year.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
The first time I walked along the ocean in California with my dad.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Locally I give back to the community through the Gospel Mission and First Lutheran Church. Globally I support ISee Solutions; which is an education based program in Uganda.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I wish everyone had access to proper nutrition and clean drinking water around the world.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I would spend a day at the spa getting pampered.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
More affordable housing for people starting out and better transit.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Our beautiful lakes and our array of wineries and restaurants. I also think its great that you can go skiing in the morning and can be golfing in the afternoon during the spring, not many cities can offer that.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. To travel, everywhere
2. Learn how to ride a motorcycle
3. Learn to play the guitar
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I won Best Horn Player in 1976. I'm still proud.
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?
Creative Cuisine Catering.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I always loved to cook and one day my good friend, Gary, asked me to cook a dinner for twenty-one people on short notice. After the dinner, one of his guests asked me to do their staff Christmas party. After that, I just needed to find a name.
What is the goal of your business?
To continue to expand and grow my business that I love.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or life?
Feeling confident in everything I do.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would have started my company sooner because I love what I do.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Colourful words in the kitchen.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Find what you love to do, and just do it. Don't be afraid.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I would spend a day cooking with Gordon Ramsay.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To support the people in our community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My daughters, but that's an easy answer. So secondly, my business.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Clarence Johnson and Claremar Delivery!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Gary Brucker from Courage For Youth Association.
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.
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.
