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Meet Lauren! Lauren is originally from Ontario and has been living here in Kelowna for just over three years. She enjoys being outdoors in nature, especially by the lake and spending quality time with her husband & best friend, Brent.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I am from Ontario originally and have lived in Kelowna twice! This second time around I have been here for 3.5 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Hands down my husband, Brent. We spend endless time together and it will never get old. He is my rock, my best friend, and the most fun person I know.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Canoe coffee, they are right in my neck of the woods and they have the best coffee ever. Also Modo Yoga!
Describe yourself in one word.
Spirited.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Europe, every time. I can never go enough! Europeans just know how to live life.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Anything lakeside!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Honestly, I am a known clutz, so there are several. But I would say falling down stairs in front of a library full of people tops the list.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I have had several family members and close friends go through serious illnesses. Their strength, vulnerability, resilience, and compassion have been nothing short of an inspiration. We only have one life, hold your people close and give love without keeping score.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
So many! Probably running wild in Disney World. Or the endless camping trips and adventures we would take as a family. The epic dance routines my sister and I would force other people to watch.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I regularly donate blood and it is something that I really believe in and encourage others to do! My company has a 1% back policy where I support charities doing the work to clean up our water systems and oceans. And showing up for friends that need support is an amazing way to impact our community.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Cancer would be cured.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Top of Knox and then I hike down a little bit and find my own spot. I’ll listen to a podcast or just meditate and look at the amazing view.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see more diversity! Especially in the way companies show up online. Also can we please ban plastic bags already!?
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The outdoor activities at our fingertips, the community/people, wineries, being able to bike almost year round!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
-Go on an ocean conservancy/clean up trip
-Own a home somewhere tropical
-Hike as many mountains as I can
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I really love a good crossword puzzle.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Business: @lumasocial Personal: @wanderingyogi
What is the name of your business/organization?
Luma Social
Why did you get into/start this business?
I started this business as a way to bring my love of great design/aesthetic, tech, and community into the world. It is a creative outlet for me. And a dream come true! I have always wanted to be my own boss, set my own hours, and work from anywhere in the world!
What is the goal of your business?
My goal is to help small to medium size business share their story. To create and illuminate brands. From website development, content creation, graphic design, social media management- Luma helps people share their passions with the world!
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Work-life balance for sure. As an entrepreneur, there is always more to do. It's knowing where to draw the boundaries and close your laptop. It's a lesson I'm slowly learning!
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
No regrets! Everything brings you right to this moment, exactly where you are meant to be.
What do you always find yourself saying?
I love you. (I’m big on love)
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
YOU DO YOU. Life is here for the taking and we are the creators of our reality. Take society, opinions, or expectations out of the equation and ask yourself what YOU see as an exceptional life. Then….get out there and make it happen!
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I’ve gotta be cheesy and say, my husband! It’s true!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Oh my goodness, this is so important. Environmental reasons for one. We make a smaller footprint with smaller companies. Secondly, you are giving back to your immediate community, that person beside you in yoga, your friend, your friends' friend.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
It’s not a specific accomplishment, but rather the life I have created. I live my truth, I have followed my dreams, put my people and creating memories with them first, and on top of it get to live in beautiful Kelowna running my business!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My sister Nicole- she does content creation with me at Luma. She is a fantastic artist, a big advocate for buying secondhand, and a great knowledge base for ethical + inclusive business practices. @nicole.etc
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Jenna Paddock, RMT. My dear friend and massage therapist!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
“To love ourselves and support each other in the process of becoming real is perhaps the greatest single act of daring greatly.” -Brene Brown
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. Thank you, Kelowna!
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