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Meet Terri. Terri is Okanagan born and raised! She enjoys cycling around the city, relaxing at the beach, and spending some quality time with her husband & best friend, Michael.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born here in Kelowna. I grew up near Salmon Arm, but we had a lot of family here. I moved here in 1989 after graduating from high school.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
Michael, my husband of 28 years. He is my best friend. We genuinely enjoy each others company.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Bean Scene- Pandosy Village. Great coffee and a great vibe. Also, it is walking distance from my house.
Describe yourself in one word.
Dedicated
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Ireland. My family is from there and I have always wanted to go.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Cycling. Downtown, the Greenway, to the beaches. I'm so thankful for the new bike paths here in Kelowna.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
One memory comes to mind. When I was in high school, I was on the student council, and I got to meet Rick Hanson in person. His Man In Motion tour was so encouraging and inspiring.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
As a young girl, I always wanted a horse. I finally got one and rode all the time- one year I even got to ride in the local town parade!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
We donate to a number of local organizations: Hand in Service, McHappy Day, MS Society, and Bike to Work Week to name a few.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Poverty
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I walk to the lake and find a park bench. I love sitting by the water.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
There is such a large gap between wage/salary and the cost of living here in Kelowna. It is so expensive to live here. I would like to see that gap decrease, so young people and families can have a chance to get ahead rather than just staying afloat.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The wine, of course! The natural beauty of the lakes and mountains. Love it!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Visit Ireland - for 2-3 months
Tour wine country in Europe- Portugal, Spain, Italy, etc.
Get my scuba diving certification
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
When I am working, I talk to myself. A lot. :)
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
FB, Instagram
What is the name of your business/organization?
Distinctly Kelowna Tours and Roots & Vines Tour Co.
Why did you get into/start this business?
We always wanted to own our own business and work together. It seemed like a good fit for both of us. I focus on the office admin side of things and Michael is the people person; an amazing tour guide.
What is the goal of your business?
To offer a memorable experience to each of our guests. Our focus is 'hometown hospitality'.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
My biggest struggle is to find balance - between working hard and enjoying life. Owning your own business is stressful and hard at times, but I want to remember to leave room for enjoying life as well.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I don't have many regrets about the decisions I have made in my life. I have tried to learn and grow from all my experiences.
What do you always find yourself saying?
You got this!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Sounds so simple, but I think when life feels overwhelming, the phrase 'take one day at a time' seems to be what gets me through.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Oh man. That is a hard choice. I think perhaps someone like Alicia Keys. She is an extremely talented female artist who is down to earth, yet highly successful.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Yes! Business owners need to support other local business owners.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Homeschooling my four children.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Bruce & Kathy Wiebe. Owners of Orchard Hill Farm and Orchard Hill RV Park. Great team! Inspiring and hard working.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Kathy Wiebe
Some general comments I would like to share are:
When you book with Distinctly, you get all the benefits of our expertly-curated and customized tour packages.
On the trail, you get more than just a driver; our professional tour guides are your Ambassadors of the Okanagan Valley.
We take care of all the details, so all you have to do is remember the ABCs…
Absorb. Breathe. Capture.
Absorb and take in the natural beauty of the valleys, lakes, and vineyards;
Breathe in the fragrances of artful winemaking and local cuisine;
Capture the sensations in the moment, and savour the memories for years to come.
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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