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Meet Charlotte! Charlotte is originally from Edmonton and has been living here in the Okanagan for over 20 years. She enjoys sampling all the various local wine and food as well as spending quality time with her loving husband, Travis.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
From Edmonton - been here for 21 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband Travis. He is my best friend, my business partner, my baby daddy, my rock. We have fun together and share so many common interests, and he makes me laugh!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Strut Shoes in The Mission - Well I love shoes for start, and as I get older I like comfort and style and this store has the very best selection of both.
Describe yourself in one word.
Outgoing.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Europe - for culture, food, wine, shopping and fun.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
I love food and wine, so I guess going out and exploring all our dining options.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
There are just too many things to have a "most".
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I would have to say starting a family, when my daughter was born it changed me forever. She inspired me to be a better person, to set a good example, to reach for more success so I could provide for her. To work hard on my marriage and invest in our success.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I grew up on a hobby farm outside of Edmonton, my very favorite memories are of my horse Chloe, as a kid she was my unconditional best friend. Whether it was riding her on our dead end road, or just sitting on her bare back in the open fields - just thinking about this makes me remember her smell.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Well I have to be honest, this is an area that I could improve on. My husband and I work very hard at growing our business and raising a child and working full time is a tough juggle. We sponsor a few teams here and there and recently joined COBSS (Central Okanagan Bursary Scholarship Society) and have sponsered a skilled trade this year. We will continue to grow this relationship.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Human Suffering - Hunger/Water etc.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Our boat!
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think Healthcare would be a good one. We are of course an ageing population and I believe this will continue to grow. With that adds strain to a system for wait times. I also know that for new people moving into our community, they have very few resources for new doctors and specialists. I would also like to see more money in education. With a daughter in the public school system I am now aware of just how hard everyone is working with limited resources, and how valuable all the volunteers are that help make the system work.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The sheer beauty.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel
2. Watch my family grow old
3. Make a positive impact on the people who know me
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
My hair is not really brown - LOL.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook - Instagram - but in person is best!
What is the name of your business/organization?
Destination Custom Homes
Why did you get into/start this business?
A passion for real estate.
What is the goal of your business?
To help people plan and execute their dream home.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I am very open, direct and passionate - it took my 30's and 40's to really fine tune that.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
There are a few things I would do different, but for the most part everything happens for a reason - if we can be open to discovering what that is.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Welcome."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Don't sweat the small stuff."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
That would have to be my sister Dianne. She lives in Victoria and is a mom to 3 terrific kids. We just don't get to spend enough time together but when we do it is just so easy.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
To support your community and reduce carbon foot print.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
20 years with my husband Travis and our beautiful daughter Carly.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Easy, my husband Travis. He is turning 40 years old this April and I have known him for half of his life. I have had the pleasure of watching him grow and mature into an intelligent business man, loving father and wonderful husband - love you Travis!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Kathi Rookes
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.
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