Faces Magazine May/June 2025 - 2

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A DECADE OF DEDICATION

MATT SKUBE

THE RISE OF JINCY ROESE

RIDLY GREIG AND HIS POT-STIRRING PATH TO NHL FAME

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ISSUE NO. 91

IN THIS ISSUE

MAGAZINE

P.20 Ridly Greig Ridly Greig opens up about his infamous empty-net goal, his dislike of Leaf fans filling the Canadian Tire Centre, and life in the NHL.

P.30 Matt Skube Matt Skube reflects on over a decade at CTV Ottawa, the rhythm of late-night anchoring, and why his next chapter—at Bell Media in Toronto—is all about family.

P.36 Jincy Roese Olympian and PWHL standout Jincy Roese shares how she went from a late start in hockey to becoming a silver medalist and a key defender for the Ottawa Charge.

P.42 The 2025 Ottawa Awards The Official Winner’s List: View Ottawa’s people’s choice Award winners across over 300 categories of businesses and professionals.

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May/June 2025 - Volume 91 FIND FACES Faces Magazine is distributed bi-monthly and offered free at select locations across Ottawa and in cities across Eastern Ontario.

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June

Where To Go In

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Shawarma Fest June 1st Nicholas Street

Parkdale Night Market Opens June 4th

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Art in the Park June 7th - 8th Central Park

Escapade Music Festival June 20th - 22nd RA Centre

Doors Open Ottawa June 7th - 8th PBR Canada Cup June 14th CTC

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Ottawa Italian Festival June 6th - 8th Preston Street Ottawa Ferrari Festival June 6th - 8th Dow’s Lake Italian Concorso d’Eleganza

Mud Hero 6 km Marathon June 21st

Ottawa Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival June 21st - 22nd CTC

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Ottawa Jazz Festival Confederation Park June 20 - 29th

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Ottawa Senators Star

Ridly Greig and His Pot-Stirring Path to NHL Fame

If there’s a moment in the young NHL career of Ridly Greig that he’s most known for, it’s that famous slapshot into an empty net against the Toronto Maple Leafs last year. And if the Ottawa Senators’ rising star is being honest, he’s a little tired of talking about it.

BY STEVE WARNE PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLAI GREGORY

“Maybe a little bit at times,” Greig said. “But it was a big moment. People like to talk about it.

People like to hate on it and love it. I mean, I’ve moved on from it.”

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As Greig sits down for an interview with Faces, we’ve just passed the one-year anniversary of his empty-net goal.

With the Senators leading 4-3 and Toronto pushing for an equalizer in the dying seconds, Greig blocked a William Nylander shot, which led to a turnover and a breakaway the other way.

Was he angry that night?

With no one near him and nothing but net to shoot at, Greig decided to pulverize a slapshot into the empty net, delighting the Ottawa crowd and sealing the Senators’ 5-3 victory. However, Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly took it as a sign of disrespect and took a six-game NHL suspension after cross-checking Greig in the head.

With statements like that, it’s no wonder Senators fans have embraced Ridly Greig so quickly.

It became a hot topic for a long time afterward, with fans and media arguing over whether the slapshot was awesome, hilarious, or poor sportsmanship.

Leaf fans made their views clear, flooding Greig’s social media with hateful messages for days afterward.

“I guess that’s what fans do,” Greig said. “They care.”

But after all the abuse and complaints, would he do it again?

“I mean, I don’t know how many empty-net breakaways there are where you have as much time as I had. So, it probably won’t happen again, but I’d have to be pretty pissed off to do it again.”

“Yeah, I was,” Greig said. “With the 70 percent Leafs fans in the building.”

But they also appreciate Greig’s consistent effort on both sides of the puck. Despite his size (below average by NHL standards), Greig competes like a pit bull. He likes being physical, and, as the Leafs found out last year, he really doesn’t mind getting under people’s skin.

Frankly, the famous “Pesky Sens” of a decade ago have nothing on Ridly Greig.

Greig comes by that peskiness honestly. In minor hockey, he played up a year against older boys, which he believes helped shape the player he is today. He also comes from a competitive family, fully immersed in hockey from day one.

His earliest memories are from growing up out west, first in a small town called Coaldale, then moving to nearby Lethbridge, Alberta. The 22-year-old followed in the hockey footsteps of not only his father but also his two older sisters.

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Greig’s father, Mark, played over 1,100 games in pro hockey, including 125 in the NHL, suiting up for four teams: the Hartford Whalers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames, and Philadelphia Flyers. He also played 606 games in the AHL, 204 in the IHL, and 190 in Germany.

Ridly’s older sisters also played hockey, and when they were kids, he admits they sometimes ganged up on him during long, epic games of outdoor hockey with friends on the backyard pond. The rink was kindly taken care of by a neighbour the kids appreciatively referred to as “Rod the Ice God.” Rod even painted lines on the ice and installed boards behind the nets.

Dara is now a pro with the Montreal Victoire of the PWHL, and Kyra played three years at the University of Lethbridge. The Senators had their “Women in Sport” night this year on March 10, and Ridly says he couldn’t be prouder of the women in his sporty family.

“Yeah, for sure. Proud brother, so to speak. I don’t get too many opportunities to watch (Dara’s games) with our schedule, but I’m always texting my parents, asking how she’s doing. It’s nice to have a sister who’s in a similar sport and atmosphere as me.”

His mom, Cindy, has been immersed in her kids’ hockey from day one. With Mark often on the road, scouting for the Philadelphia Flyers, Cindy made sure Ridly and his sisters always got to practices, games, and tournaments on time. And naturally, his dad was always there for hockey and life advice.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better dad to help raise me and show me the ways of the hockey world—and how to be a person, too. But yeah, for the hockey side of things, it was really easy just to kind of ask him questions, for help through junior, and obviously going pro. I think that’s probably where he helped the most because he had played for so long.”

Mark’s long career came to a close when Ridly was just a baby. I asked Ridly if his dad ever dusts off an old VCR and forces him to watch videotapes of his old highlights.

“No, I don’t think there are too many highlights in there,” Ridly joked. “There’s just the stories he tells, but usually, they’re good stories with a good laugh to them.”

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Ridly is often praised for being a good student of the game, a player who doesn’t cut corners. But that didn’t necessarily apply to school, where he says he probably did the bare minimum.

“Obviously, I was in Brandon, so we probably weren’t active in school too much. We probably skipped it a little bit too much, but I think I did what I needed to, got my diploma, and moved on.”

Greig was far more focused on junior hockey with the Brandon Wheat Kings. As a 16-year-old, they drafted him eighth overall, and in his second year with the club, that’s when he started to realize he might be able to make a living at this someday.

“When I was 17, I kind of had a slow start, but midway through the year, I started to get some traction. Then there was the NHL Draft. There was a lot of noise around that, and schools started talking to me. I think that was probably when I had an idea that I could maybe make something out of this.”

The Senators thought so too, drafting Greig in the first round in 2020. Along with Tim Stutzle (3rd overall) and Jake Sanderson (5th overall), there can be no doubt that was the most lucrative NHL Draft round in club history. It was also the COVID draft, where players stayed home to practice social distancing – yet almost all of them were surrounded by family and friends at their draft parties.

“We did (my draft party) at my house. I had probably 30, 40 family members there with friends. Obviously, when my name got called, I was fired up, and we were able to have some laughs after that.”

But being drafted is one thing. Actually making it to the NHL is a lot tougher, and COVID played a role in that too.

“I remember my first (Senators) camp, I had just had COVID, and I was probably awful. I was throwing up and everything. I would probably say I weighed about 150 or 160 pounds. But since then, it’s just been good memories. You just kind of keep your head down and work as hard as you can to get noticed and get a taste.”

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“I couldn’t have asked for a better dad to raise me and show me the ways of the hockey world—and how to be a person, too.”

Jacob-Bernard was dealt to the Buffalo Sabres at the trade deadline, he and JBD had been renting a place together. But Greig does have one purchase in mind.

Five years later, Greig is happy with how his second full season in the NHL is going. The Senators just ended an eight year playoff drought and Greig has quickly become a player that head coach Travis Green can confidently call on in any situation.

That’s truly a fun piece of hockey trivia: Exactly 30 years before their sons were drafted together by the Senators, Mark Greig (first round) and Geoff Sanderson (second round) were drafted together by the Hartford Whalers at the 1990 NHL Draft.

Greig’s offensive stats were up this year, cracking the 30-point mark, though he’d still like to add a little more. But the Senators are thrilled with his development – so much so that GM Steve Staios just signed him in January to a four-year, $13 million contract.

“Yeah, it all kind of happened pretty quickly,” Greig said. “It was during the season, and we were playing every other day. So, you’re not really thinking about it too much. Steve (Staios) called, and he and my agent went back and forth for a couple of weeks, and then it was done.

“So, I was lucky I didn’t have to stress about anything too much. I was just kind of more worried about playing and winning because it was during the season. So, it all went pretty smoothly and easily for me.”

Despite the big new deal, Greig hasn’t bought anything fun for himself yet. In fact, he hasn’t bought anything at all, not even a house. Until

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“I’d probably like to get my parents something for all they’ve done for me.”

Along with JBD, Greig has a strong connection with teammate Jake Sanderson, which began long before the three Alberta residents ended up being roommates last year.

“Sanderson was in Calgary, so I played against him a little bit when we were younger. Then we played on Team Alberta together. Then we got drafted together (both in the first round in 2020). And our dads got drafted together too.”

The uncanny team affiliations don’t end there. Cole Reinhardt, another Alberta native who was drafted by the Senators in 2020, was Ridly’s linemate with the Wheat Kings.

So, this is a young man with plenty of reasons to feel right at home with the Ottawa Senators. Now that the Senators have ended their playoff drought, he’d like nothing more than to win a Stanley Cup here someday, while rubbing opponents the wrong way at every turn.

Ridley Greig may already be an important two-way player for the Ottawa Senators, but it’s pretty clear that his best is yet to come.

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PROUD PARTNER OF THE OTTAWA SENATORS AND THE OTTAWA REDBLACKS!

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The Latest What’s New In Local Living Ottawa Housing Affordability Hits New Threshold

Back Across the Pond: Direct Flights to Heathrow Return to YOW Air Canada’s Ottawa to London direct flights have returned, making a comeback since their cancellation amid the COVID-19 pandemic Flights to London from Ottawa leave Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with same day return flights.

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According to Ratehub’s April 2025 report, buyers now need an annual income of $133,350 to purchase an average home in Ottawa—based on a 10% down payment and a mortgage rate of 6.38%. While some Canadian cities have seen improved affordability, Ottawa’s housing market remains tough, with prices holding steady despite recent rate drops.

The New OC Transpo: Over 100 Routes Updated OC Transpo rolled out its largest network overhaul to date on April 27, with more than 100 bus routes changed as part of the “New Ways to Bus” campaign. The update impacted nearly every rider, introducing new routes, revised schedules, retired stops, and improved connections to schools, hospitals, and the newly extended O-Train Lines 2 and 4.

Twenty-seven routes now run every 15 minutes or less during weekdays, and staff were present at major stations during the transition to assist commuters. A free fare weekend followed to encourage residents to explore the new system.

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MAGAZINE

A New Chapter for

MATT SKUBE

By Dan Lalande | Photography by Sean Sisk

“Authenticity will land with people no matter what.”

It certainly did for Matt Skube, who, in a mere eleven-and-a-half-years at CTV Ottawa, became one of the city’s most beloved media personalities.

After more than a decade behind the anchor desk, Matt Skube signs off from CTV Ottawa to prioritize family and begin a new chapter in Toronto.

Traditionally, that style of ingratiation takes a lot longer. But Skube’s genial unpretentiousness, breezy temperament, and palpable professionalism made him an instant hit.

Needless to say, his imminent departure from the network, announced earlier this year, has thrown the station’s loyal viewership a curveball. But for Skube, that, too, is a matter of staying true to oneself.

“Moving to a late shift”—Skube’s working hours since 2024 have been 4:00 pm until midnight, Monday to Friday—”has taken a toll,” he shares, “especially on my family.” Skube met the love of his life, his wife Tricia, at St.

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Francis Xavier University, though coupledom came a few years after graduation.

Their two growing boys refer to Skube’s broadcasts as “Daddy TV.” While that might be enough for most working fathers, Skube has long longed to be on the other side of the screen.

“They’re always going to be my top priority,” Skube offers lovingly. “All aspects of my move align with what’s best for them.”

That move will be from Ottawa to Toronto, where Skube will be serving Bell Media, CTV’s owner, in a new capacity. Bigger market, better hours—hard to say no.

Skube’s career began in his native Thunder Bay. Growing up, there wasn’t a sport he didn’t play, including football. But in college, he didn’t just catch the pigskin, he caught the broadcasting bug. Offered a full-time on-air position back home, he worked in the field and at the anchor desk. He dabbled in weather, adding select

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A Thunder Bay native and former weather and news anchor, Matt Skube spent over a decade as a trusted face on CTV Ottawa’s evening broadcasts. Now, he’s stepping away from the anchor desk to begin a new chapter with Bell Media in Toronto.

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“Professionally, I discovered the true meaning of connecting with an audience,” Skube says. “I didn’t have to sacrifice who I was, what I loved, or what I did best.”

clips of that stint onto his demo reel. Though he was hoping to land the weekend sports anchor job at CTV Ottawa, he ended up with that beat instead, moving from weekends to weekdays after J.J. Clarke retired.

“There was some slight disappointment,” Skube, again with that trademark honesty, confesses, “but it quickly quelled once I met everyone in the newsroom. They were incredibly dedicated to their craft. I was in awe.”

While Skube might not have been hired for sports, that’s exactly what his first on-air assignment entailed: “We were sitting in the afternoon editorial meeting going over the lineup for the evening newscast,” he recounts. “We realized that the Rink of Dreams at City Hall was opening that night.

With all of the other reporters already assigned, the producer asked me if I owned skates. I said ‘Yes!’ maybe too enthusiastically. The next thing I knew, I was walking back to my apartment to get my skates. I did a live hit on the ice that night. I remember that they wanted me to skate towards the camera and stop. All I could think about was not falling. But everything went well, I didn’t bail, and I got a text from anchor Graham Richardson saying I did a great job.”

That “great job” continued for the next decade and a half. At the five-year mark, Skube became the frontman for the station’s 5 PM news show.

“I was ecstatic!” he recalls. “There aren’t many opportunities in this business where you truly get to start a show from scratch, but that’s what we did. I remember the early conversations about the format for CTV News at Five and the direction we were taking. It was going to be a fast-paced show, moving quickly from story to story while having some fun where we could. It didn’t take long for us to hit our stride.”

That stride will now be coming to a stop. Before Skube stands or sits before a camera again, though, he’ll be taking some much-needed time off.

Besides, he owes his wife a honeymoon; two days after they belatedly exchanged vows, he found himself tackling that taxing four-to-midnight shift.

There’ll also be some reflection on his time at CTV Ottawa, a process that’s already started.

“Professionally,” Skube reflects, “I discovered the true meaning of connecting with an audience. I learned that I didn’t have to sacrifice who I was, what I loved, or what I did best. I also learned about leadership and perseverance, especially watching colleagues during natural disasters or the COVID-19 pandemic.”

As always, though, it all comes down to family: “I also became a father over my time here,” adds Skube proudly, “a monumental adjustment of the lens through which I see the world.”

Now, it’s the world’s turn to see a different Matt Skube.

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GREY’S SOCIAL HOUSE A Bold New Chapter In The Byward Market

New In

Located at 2 ByWard Market Square, Grey’s Social House brings a fresh energy to a storied address. Formerly home to the Blue Cactus, the space has been reimagined as a sleek, inviting eatery designed for both casual dining and late-night cocktails. The menu balances elevated comfort food with global influences—think braised short rib tacos, wild mushroom flatbreads, and inventive share plates—while the cocktail list leans on house infusions and bold flavours. With moody lighting, contemporary finishes, and a central bar that anchors the space, Grey’s is poised to become the Market’s go-to for after-work drinks, weekend brunches, and everything in between.

Ottawa Two New Destinations For The Discerning Explorer

ST. ELSEWHERE Chinatown’s Vibrant Vegan Wine Bar At 826 Somerset Street West, St. Elsewhere is a fully plant-based restaurant and wine bar offering a creative menu of globally inspired small and large plates. With a cozy, art-filled interior and a thoughtfully curated wine list, it’s a welcoming spot for both vegans and non-vegans seeking inventive cuisine and a relaxed dining experience.

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MAGAZINE A two-time World Championship medalist and Olympian, Jincy Roese (née Dunne) is one of the most decorated defenders in women’s hockey. Now leading Ottawa’s PWHL team in both ice time and assists, Roese continues to bring precision, perspective, and leadership to the pro game.

BY STEVE WARNE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN SISK

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Ottawa’s Roese Jincy Roese’s Journey from Cold Feet to Pro

J

Xincy Roese didn’t always love hockey. In fact,

Dolce IV,” Jincy said. “Jessica and I are only 14 months apart. She’s probably the biggest reason I went to Ohio State. I was attached to her hip growing up!”

“I absolutely abhorred it,” she says, laughing now. “I didn’t like my feet getting cold at all.”

Josh Dunne, her younger brother and current forward with the AHL’s Rochester Americans.

“Josh is 18 months younger than me. We grew up doing everything together as well. He played USHL, Clarkson, and did two years with Columbus and Cleveland.

He is by far the best coach in our family.”

when she first laced up skates at the age of 10, she hated it.

That’s almost hard to believe, considering where that reluctant start eventually led. Roese (née Dunne) grew to love the sport and is now one of the top defenders in the world, an Olympian, and a two-time World Championship medalist. Roese is nearing the end of her second year as a pro, helping to lead the Charge in Ottawa – where she currently leads her team in both assists and ice time.

Though her parents never played hockey, Roese grew up in a household where the sport was basically a second language. With five siblings who all competed at high levels – collegiate, pro, and even national teams – the Dunne family is a hockey dynasty of its own.

Before we dive into her story, Jincy is more than happy to announce the starting lineup for the Dunne family: Jessica Dolce, Jincy’s older sister, only 14 months apart.

“Jessica is married and mama to my godson, Billy Joe

Josey Dunne, played for Chicago Mission and the University of Minnesota, and is currently playing and doing her masters at Lindenwood.

James Dunne, currently playing at Oklahoma State University. “He is the laughter and light of our family.”

Joy Dunne, a standout at Ohio State and with Team USA. “And Joy is tearing it up at Ohio State (62 points in 29 games) and with the USA women’s national team.

The true athlete of the family!”

With a family that practically lives and breathes hockey, it’s no wonder Jincy found her way to elite hockey herself.

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From those early (and warmer) roller hockey days to her role as one of the top defenders in women’s hockey today, Jincy took some time to answer our questions – and didn’t hold back.

You grew up just outside of St. Louis.

How did Blues legend Al MacInnis and The Tkachuk family become part of your youth hockey backstory?

I was playing with Al’s daughter on the U12 Lady Blues. He reached out to the coach of the 1997 Junior Blues (boys team) and said they should give me a tryout to see if I can make the team.

They listened, I made it, and it just so happened Matthew Tkachuk (now an NHL star) was on the team and his father, Keith, was helping coach. Brady played more with my brother, Josh, but would occasionally sub in for us if we were short on players.

You had an incredibly successful career at Ohio State. Which moment from your time at OSU stands out to you the most?

My fifth year was by far and away my best year (right until COVID cancelled it!). Our team culture was great, I laughed everyday, and loved going to the rink. I was in my masters and loving it, and just really happy during that time.

What did it mean to you to put on a Team USA jersey for the first time and what do you remember about that whole experience?

I was soooo young and terrified! I was 15 years old and just in awe!

What’s your favourite victory, gold medal, or moment in hockey?

My last year at Ohio State, we’d been the first team in Ohio State history to win our league tournament. I just remember the team had so much energy and we were having so much FUN. I had never laughed so hard, so often, and 38

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been so goofy in such a big game. And we pulled out a huge win against Wisconsin. It was also memorable because that was my last college hockey game (with COVID canceling our season) and I ended my college career with 99 points. I think that is hilarious.

What’s been the most challenging moment of your career so far, and how did you overcome it?

My first experience getting cut from the 2014 Olympics was hard because I was so young (16) and felt like an absolute failure. It took me a while to learn how to navigate it and gather the resources I needed to move forward. Four years later, I was cut again, and then you begin to wonder if you ever have what it takes. I think faith, gratitude, and perspective are what helps me overcome on a daily basis.

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“At some point, chasing any goal that matters to you will probably frustrate you or even bring you to tears— but stay in the fight.”

Did you ever think a league like the PWHL would come along and be so successful?

I knew it would probably come some day, but didn’t know if I’d still be around playing in it. I’m glad I stuck around though because what a gift to wake up and get to play hockey for a living!

You were drafted by Ottawa in the very first PWHL Draft. What do you remember about that day?

I remember watching the draft from my apartment in NYC not knowing what in the world was going to happen.

I didn’t attend the draft because (way in advance before we even knew a draft was happening) I had surprised my husband with tickets to his favourite band for his birthday.

Is your husband a hockey player too?

No. He doesn’t play hockey, can’t skate; total numbers guy.

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“I want to be remembered as someone who treated everybody with respect, honour, and kindness—who left people and places better than they found them.”

As one of the best defenders in women’s hockey, what’s your approach to training and nutrition?

It’s all in the details! Warm up, take care of your body, listen to it, cool down. You have one body, take care of it! Food is fuel, I want to make sure I’m putting the best kind of fuel in it!

What advice would you give to young female athletes who dream of playing for their national team or competing at the collegiate or professional level?

You have to love it. You have to always fight to keep that love and know why you do what you do. At some point, chasing any goal that matters to you will probably frustrate you or even bring you to tears— but stay in the fight, keep the love and don’t have a backup plan!

Many MANY years from now, when hockey is behind you, how do you want to be remembered in hockey?

I want to be remembered as someone who treated everybody with respect, honour, and kindness and left people and places better than they found them. I’m less concerned with what they thought about me as a player and more concerned with how they thought about me as a person.

As her family, friends and teammates would probably tell you, if that’s the legacy she’s aiming for, Jincy Roese is right on target.

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BUSINESS COMPANIES

Best Advertising Agency WebMarketers

BUSINESS

PROFESSIONALS Account Executive of the Year Charlie Connerty Administrator of the Year Makenna Dancose Advertising Specialist of the Year Kaitlin Wood Bookkeeper of the Year Ashley Rovito Best Business Development Coach Jennie West-Correia Business Owner of the Year Claudia Lepore Career Coach of the Year Katy McFee CEO of the Year Moe Awija CFO of the Year Erin Crowe Best Client Services Specialist Iqbal Islamuddin Communications Specialist of the Year Kaitlin Wood Consultant of the Year Mitchell Miranda Engineer of the Year M Paul Montgomery Entrepreneur of the Year Dr. Salima Ismail Executive Assistant of the Year Tamara Hollett Fundraising/Philanthropic Professional of the Year Patric McKechnie Government Relations Specialist of the Year Scott Stonham

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HR Professional of the Year Avaleah Plant Insurance Broker of the Year Nancy Merriam-Oliver IT Leader of the Year Sergey Poltev Manager of the Year Mike Wallace Marketing Manager of the Year Kirstin Collins Marketing Professional of the Year Monica Boudreau Mortgage Broker of the Year Aditya Wadhen Policy Analyst of the Year Sarah McCrimmon Professional Recruiter of the Year Bachir Yassine

Best Place to Work - Over 25 People Solid Rock Realty Best Place to Work - Under 25 People Play On Pediatric Therapy Best Commercial Cleaning Service Top 2 Bottom Cleaning Services Best Commercial HVAC Company Shouldice Mechanical Best Compliance Company Taylor’d Safety Services Best Consulting Firm Novatech Engineering Consultants Best Customer Service Snow Care Works Best Engineering Firm JLR Best Executive Office Space/Coworking Space Innovative Professional Offices

Program Manager of the Year Steve Poaps

Green Initiative of the Year Sustainable Publishing Broken Keys Publishing & Press

Project Manager of the Year Iqbal Islamuddin

Insurance Company/Brokerage of the Year Jubilee Financials

Public Relations Professional of the Year Mackenzie Braithwaite

Best IT Company Enviro IT Services

Receptionist of the Year Gillian Charbonneau

Local Business of the Year Lashed & Lifted

Sales Coach of the Year Nesrin Darrat

Best Marketing Agency Posh Media

Sales Manager of the Year Faddel Ghandour

Mortgage Brokerage of the Year Capital Mortgages

Sales Professional of the Year Zach Lafleur

Best Office Moving Company Two Men and a Truck

Security Guard of the Year Rick Pariag

Best Printing Company Broken Keys Publishing & Press

Social Media Manager of the Year Courtney Conto

Best Professional Writing Service DocDoctor Inc.

Best Virtual Assistant Amanda J Shaw

Best Recruiting Company/ Employment Agency Axe Staffing & Recruiting Best Security Company Sword Security Small Business of the Year Lashed & Lifted Start Up of the Year Feed The City

FOOD & DINING PROFESSIONALS Best Barista Kimberly Brotzman Best Bartender Meghan Glennie Best Chef Ian Carswell Best Mixologist Georges Haddad Best Restaurant Manager Alex Macvarish Restaurant Owner of the Year Tony Hanna Best Server Paul Adey

FOOD & DINING BUSINESSES

Best African Cuisine Suya Royale Grill & Chill Best Bakery Tartelette Bakery & Cafe Best Barbecue Meatings Barbecue Best Caesar Boulton House Best Breakfast/Brunch Wilf & Ada’s Best Bubble Tea Xing Fu Tang Ottawa Best Burger Pearson Street SmashBurgers N Melts

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Best Business Lunch Location Fratelli Kanata

Best International Grocer Duke Fine Foods

Best Restaurant View Joe’s Italian Kitchen - Almonte

Best Caribbean Food Run2Patty

Best Italian Restaurant Cabotto’s Fine Italian Cuisine

Best Sandwich DiRienzo Deli

Best Casual Dining State and Main

Best Japanese/Sushi Hockey Sushi

Best Seafood Pelican Seafood Market & Grill

Best Catering CMB Catering

Best Late Night Food Elgin Street Diner

Best Shawarma Shawarma Palace

Best Chinese Food Golden Palace

Best Local Brewery Kemptville Brewing Co.

Best Smoothies Stittsville Nutrition

Best Cocktail ALORA Ottawa

Best Local Food Product Beavertails

Best South Asian Cuisine Sundari’s Kitchen

Best Coffee Shop Bubba & Bugs

Best Locally Inspired Menu Makerfeed Co

Best South Indian Cuisine Sundari’s Kitchen

Best Date Spot Black Tartan Kitchen

Best Local Spirit Vodkow Classic Vanilla Cream Liquor

Best Sports Bar Final Score Sports Bar

Best Dessert Spot Tartelette Bakery & Cafe

Best Local Winery KIN Vineyards

Best Steakhouse Al’s Steakhouse

Best Dinner Dreamland Cafe

Best Lunch Occo Kitchen

Best Street Food/Food Truck Golden Fries Orleans

Best Distillery Dairy Distillery (Vodkow)

Best Meal Prep/Food Delivery Service Meal Prep Ottawa

Best Tacos/Burrito El Patcho’s Tacos

Best Donuts Suzy Q

Best Mexican Restaurant Casa Mexico

Best Tea Room Miller’s Oven Tea Room and Cafe

Best Fast Casual Food Pearson Street SmashBurgers N’ Melts

Best New Restaurant Dante Restaurant Ottawa

Best Thai Food Chili Thai

Best Fine Dining Giovanni’s

Best Oyster Bar Whalesbone

Best Vegan Menu Green Door

Best Food Supplier Ital Foods

Best Pad Thai Chili Thai

Buyer’s + Cellars Tasting Room

Best Gluten Free Menu Gutsies

Best Pasta Vittoria Trattoria

Best Wings Wild Wing Ottawa

Best Greek Food Trofí Restaurant

Best Patio Cheshire Cat Pub

HUMANITARIAN

Best Happy Hour Al’s Steakhouse

Best Pho Pho 99

Community Project of the Year Protect The Rise

Best Hotel Bar or Restaurant Zoe’s Chateau Laurier

Best Pizza Gabriel’s Pizza

Best Ice Cream Carp Custom Creamery

Best Poutine Golden Fries Orleans

Jonathan Pitre Award for Overcoming Adversity Laura Dill

Best Indian Food Sundari’s Kitchen

Best Pub The Cheshire Cat

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Best Wine Bar

Max Keeping Humanitarian Award Shawna Thibodeau Not For Profit of the Year Aga Khan Foundation Canada

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Volunteer Animal Care Worker of the Year Donna Macrae Volunteer of the Year Holly Surman Volunteer Organization of the Year Furry Tales Cat Rescue

HOUSING & RESIDENCES Best Basements Caribou Restorations Ltd Best Bathrooms DZN Centre Best Cabinets Warnock Cabinetry Best Commercial Landscaper Exact Landscapes Best Deck & Fence Company Gazo & Pierre Contracting Inc. Best Driveway/Concrete Sealing J Wilson Paving Best Flooring Company Amo Tile Best Furniture Store DJW’s Furniture Best Homebuilder HN Homes Best Home Entertainment Specialist Aura Design Best Home Inspector Perry Campbell - A Buyer’s Choice Best Hot Tub Sales & Service Club Piscine Ottawa Best HVAC Company Rick Menard Heating & Cooling Best Interior Design Company Westyle Interior Design Interior Designer of the Year Lisa Poirier Best Kitchens Laurysen Kitchens

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MAGAZINE Best Landscaper TerraCare Outdoor Solutions Best Lighting Arevco Lighting Best Moving Company Ottawa Moving Logistics Best Painting Company Upscale Painting Best Pest Control Pestroy Inc Best Pool Maintenance Robco Water Swimming Pool Services Best Property Management Diplomat Property Management Property Manager of the Year Kamil Stankowski Best Residential Cleaning Service Top 2 Bottom Cleaning Services Best Roofing Company Magenta Exterior Solutions Best Siding Company Magenta Exterior Solutions Best Tile & Stone Company Urbano Inc. Best Tree Removal Service Trillium Tree Experts Best Window Cleaning Capital Window Cleaning Best Windows & Doors Verdun Windows & Doors

REAL ESTATE Commercial Real Estate Agent of the Year Ted Wilson Luxury Real Estate Agent of the Year Joey Grimm New Real Estate Agent of the Year Keon Mohammad-Dawoudi Real Estate Agency/Brokerage of the Year Avenue North Realty Real Estate Agent of the Year Eli Skaff Best Real Estate Photography Tezz Photography

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FINANCE Accountant of the Year Marco Ranieri Accounting Firm of the Year Hendry Warren LLP Best Bookkeeping Service Numetrica Financial Advisor of the Year Jaspreer Kaur Wadhen Financial Analyst of the Year Scott Stonham Wealth Management Firm of the Year Capital Wealth Partners/Mandeville Private Client

LAW Law Firm of the Year Nelligan Law Lawyer of the Year Chanelle Dutrisac Legal Assistant of the Year Amanda Bui Litigator of the Year Charlene Kavanagh Paralegal of the Year Nikolai Singh

DIGITAL & SOCIAL Blog of the Year Perfectly Imperfect Fam Best Digital Signage Company UTG Digital Media Fashion Influencer of the Year Unstoppable.mama Fitness Influencer of the Year Jessica Chiarello Foodie Influencer of the Year Mombie_vedz Best Graphic Design Agency KB Media Graphic Designer of the Year Chad Preseault Influencer of the Year Perfectly_Imperfect_Fam

Best SEO Agency Optimized Marketing Agency

Best Professional Speaker Jill Wright

Best TikTok Account @nichsavage

Best Trade Show Ottawa Pet Expo

Visual Arts Artist of the Year Katerina Mertikas

MUSIC & ART

Best Web Developer Courtney Conto

Best Acting Coach April Pierrot

Best Youtube Channel Coming in Hot w/ Wallace and York

Actor of the Year Sara Scott

EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Best Audio/Visual Entertainment Company Midnight Music Best Black Tie Event The Mental Health Gala Comedian of the Year Janelle Niles Best Corporate Event/Conference Venue Brookstreet Hotel Best Craft Beer Festival I Heart Beer Festival Best DJ Roxy Sunset Best Event Planner Michael Budge Best Event Planning Company Peak Planning Best Event Venue Overflow Brewing Company Best Food Event/Festival Soiree In The Field Best Fundraising Event Puppy Yoga - Inner Soul Yoga and Cycle Best Game Night Venue LaserMaxx Ottawa Best Karaoke The Lookout Best Nightclub The Lookout Best Organizer/Promoter Chris Fry

Album of the Year Bonecat III Artist of the Year Romy Mounzer Author of the Year Michel Weatherall Choreographer of the Year Vanessa Plettell Country Artist of the Year Lynne Hanson Dance Instructor of the Year Emilie Phaneuf Dancer of the Year Casandra Lafleur Best Dance School Vanessa Plettell Dance Film Director of the Year Lisa Thompson Hip Hop Artist of the Year Cody Coyote Jazz/Blues Artist of the Year JW Jones Best Music /Drama Coach Lisa Thompson Music Group of the Year Bonecat Best Musical School Allegro Music School Best Music Store Long & McQuade Music Video of the Year Romy Moun FEEL

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New Book of the Year Jungle Buddyz: The Surprise Party

Best Lash Technician Sarah Potentier

Best Travel Agent Kerry Robbins

Painter of the Year Charlene Michalak

Best Makeup Artist Carolynbeautyandstyle

Best Winter Attraction Icelynd Skating Trails

Producer of the Year Warren van den Hoef

Medical Aesthetician of the Year Taissa Sekret

Song of the Year Bon Bon

Model of the Year Mary Elin Moore

Best Studio ALTS Productions

Best Nail Salon Magic Nails & Spa

Best Tattoo Parlour Sorry Mum

Best Tailor Pins and Needles

Best Theatre Group Paper Picture Productions

Best Wigs Shea D.esigns

FASHION & BEAUTY

LEISURE & TOURISM

Best Barber Nathalie Jones

Best Corporate Retreat La Vida Local Food + Wine Tours

Best Barber Shop Towne barber

Best Extreme Adventure OWL Rafting

Best Clothing Brand Meagan & Morgan

Best Fall Attraction Saunders Farm Frightfest

Best Clothing Store Schad Boutique

Best Golf Club Loch March Golf & Country Club

Best Colourist Katrina Powers

Best Hotel Brookstreet Hotel

Best Cosmetic Clinic Beauty Sekrets

Best Leisure Sales Club Piscine Ottawa

Cosmetic Physician of the Year Dr. Sean Smith

Best Marina/Yacht Club Nepean Sailing Club

Esthetician of the Year Lucie Rosano

Best Museum Museum of Nature

Best Eyebrow Specialist Lynsey Saikaly

Best Ottawa Experience Unexpected Journeys

Fashion Designer of the Year Kiki Coe

Best Spa Jask Salon & Spa

Fashion Stylist of the Year Melissa Morneau

Best Spring Attraction The Tulip Festival

Best Hair Extensions Glam Fairy Hair

Best Summer Attraction Bluesfest

Best Hair Salon Jet Black

Best Tour Kaleidoscope Kayaking by OVAP

Best Hair Stylist Ashlee James

Best Travel Agency Ottawa Travel & Cruise

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HEALTH & WELLNESS Acupuncturist of the Year Hannah Lohnes Best Bootcamp Mighty Maestro Fitness Chiropractor of the Year Dr. Keith Moore Dental Assistant of the Year Nathalia Jorge Best Dental Clinic Kent Street Dental Centre Dental Hygienist of the Year Roz Godin Dentist of the Year Dr. Rami Yassine Dermatologist of the Year Dr. Chloé Ward Best Dispensary Purple Meadow Cannabis Family/General Practitioner of the Year Dr. Malik Megjhani Best Fitness Studio Premium Performance Best Fitness Instructor Sharon Allard Foot Specialist of the Year Lisa Garland Hearing Specialist of the Year Sara Vujicic Holistic Specialist of the Year Lyn McCuaig Life Coach of the Year Sara Awija Best Limited Mobility Trainer Julie Pettigrew Massage Therapist of the Year Brooke Meister Best MediSpa Westend Laser Clinic

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Best Natural Wellness Company Elysian Wellness Centre Naturopathic Doctor of the Year Dr. Marie Matheson Nurse of the Year Lynda Lalor Nutritionist of the Year Sara Awija Occupational Therapist of the Year Myriam Decoeur Optometrist of the Year Saleh Yacoub Orthodontist of the Year Dr. Charles Cohen

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Best Personal Trainer Kimberly Funston Pharmacy of the Year Shoppers Drug Mart Merivale at Baseline Physiotherapist of the Year Michael McCreight Physiotherapy Clinic of the Year Elysian Wellness Centre Best Pilates Instructor Penny Butler Best Spin Class Greenboro Community Center Sports Injury Therapist of the Year Michael McCreight Best Strength & Conditioning Coach Krystin Paquette Wellness Coach of the Year Kimberly Funston Yoga Instructor of the Year Beverley Melymick Best Yoga Studio Inner Soul Yoga and Cycle

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SPORTS Best Angler Monica Borrello Athlete of the Year Rachel Homan Coach of the Year Anic Belleros-Daneault Best Diving Club Ottawa National Diving Club Best Diving Instructor Illya Kvasha Best Driving Range 19th Tee Best Equestrian Coach Courtney McHugh Best Equestrian Stable Riverview Stables Best Golf Pro & Instructor Gregg Foley Best Gymnastics Coach Stephane McNicoll Best Gymnastics Facility Tumblers Gymnastics Centre Hockey Coach of the Year Dave Stathos Best Recreation Centre Diane Deans Greenboro Community Centre Best Sports Club Rideau Gymnastics Best Swim Instructor Tara VanderLinden Best Youth Sports Program Dave Stathos Goalie Performance Center

TRADES Best Carpenter Claude Heroux Best Construction Company Ken White Construction Best Drywall Finisher Accurate Drywall Best Electrical Company DnD Electric Inc.

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Best Electrician Brandyn Hewett

Best Wedding Makeup Artist Al Fortier

Best General Contractor Camkade Construction

Best Wedding Officiant Merry Fairy

Best HVAC Technician Maxime Larose

Best Wedding Photographer Farrah Sanjari Photography

Best Interlock Prismatic Contracting Inc.

Best Wedding Planner Brigitte Samson

Best Plumber Jason Everett

Best Wedding Stationery & Design Daisy Designs

Best Refrigeration & Air Systems Company Core Climate Ltd

Best Wedding Venue Bleeks & Bergamot

Best Restoration Specialist Paul Davis

Best Wedding Videographer NoursPhoto

Best Welder Joshua Fortin

SOCIAL SERVICES

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY Best Animal Photographer Lynda Graveline Best Event Photographer Perry Campbell Best Film Editor Scott Rawson Brown Best Landscape Photographer Nicholas Wojtas Best Photography Account Kelly McDonald Best Portrait Photographer Anna Odeh Photography Best Videographer Marcel Preston

WEDDINGS Best Bridal Boutique Ever After Bridal Boutique Best Wedding Cakes Delightfully Delicious Desserts Best Wedding Caterer Prestige Catering - Orleans Best Wedding Florist Primrose & Willow

Counsellor of the Year Zahra Nafar Developmental Services Worker of the Year Alicia Ladouceur Health Educator of the Year Dr. Owen Wiseman Mental Health Worker of the Year Lorraine Downey Social Services Worker of the Year Nadine Kamhieh Support Worker of the Year Tara Vanderlinden

EDUCATION College Instructor of the Year Shannon Smithers Best Daycare Portobello Early Learning Centre Early Childhood Educator of the Year Sandra Botelho Educational Assistant of the Year Charlene Williams Principal of the Year Julie Hanna School Administrator of the Year Michaela DeShiffart

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Special Education Teacher of the Year Bonnie Walker Best Specialty School Aquatic Facility Training Ottawa Best Summer Camp Luv2Groove Elementary Teacher of the Year Joseph Caruso Graduate Teacher of the Year Allison Everette Secondary Teacher of the Year Rebecca Elizabeth Lord-Rainville Undergraduate Teacher of the Year Allison Everett Tutor of the Year Robyn McEwen

TRANSPORTATION & AUTOMOTIVE Best Automotive Sales Specialist Alex Gaidouk Best Auto Repair/Body Shop Highland Auto Body Shop Best Used Auto Sales Car Canada Best Auto Service 4My Auto Best Car Dealership Myers Barrhaven Subaru Best Delivery Service Gopher-it Deliveries Best Driver Trevor Robinson Best Driving School Safe2Pass Best Limousine/Transport Company Royalty Limousine Best Luxury Car Dealership Tony Graham Lexus Best Mechanic Anthony Franzese

MEDIA Animator of the Year Adam Pockaj Emcee of the Year Dylan Black Journalist of the Year Dylan Dyson Multimedia Specialist of the Year John Mielke Best Podcast Finn’s Friday Forecast Radio Personality of the Year Carolina Izaguirre-Campos Best Radio Station Blast The Radio Best Sports Podcast Coming In Hot w/ Wallace & York Sports Reporter of the Year Claire Hanna Best Talent/Casting Agency Smyth Casting Media Personality of the Year Matt Skube

PETS Best Dog Daycare Keshet Kennels Best Dog Walker Barking Up Trees Best Ottawa-Based Pet Brand Boop Pet Shop Best Pet Boarding & Sitting Priority Pet Boarding Services Inc. Best Pet Groomer Sarah Powers Best Pet Grooming Salon Pawsh Pets

Best Pet Training Dogs All Day Best Vet Assistant/Technician Ashley Deon Veterinarian of the Year Dr. Miki Shibata Best Veterinary Hospital West Carleton Animal Hospital

SHOPPING Best Book Store The Book’s Better Bookshop Best Children’s & Baby Store Humen Kind Best Farmer’s Market Carp Farmers Market Best Florist Acanthus Best Garden Centre Les Serres Robert Plante Greenhouse Best Gift Store The Niche Ottawa Gallery Best Grocery Store Loblaws Merivale/Baseline Best Hardware Store Rona Manotick Best Jeweller Magpie Best Jewellery Designer Amy Nicholls Best Mall/Shopping Plaza Bayshore Mall Best Sporting Goods Store Ottawa Valley Air Paddle Store Manager of the Year Stephane St-Pierre Best Vintage/Consignment Store Consignment World

Pet Social Media Personality of the Year @river_littlemissotis Best Pet Store Pet Valu Watters Orleans

Best Towing Service Sharkey’s Towing

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InSpirits The Cult Classic of Cocktails, Expertly Redefined

THE NEGRONI, REIMAGINED “Too much time in the barrel, and you’re drinking wood, not whiskey,” says Nathan Caldwell, master distiller. If it’s complexity you’re after, seek blend, not age—a mix of young and mature barrels often delivers the best balance.

It began as a rogue request in a Florentine café: gin instead of soda water. The year was 1919. Count Camillo Negroni unknowingly birthed a legend—equal parts bold and balanced. Today, the Negroni is a darling of cocktail culture. But like all icons, it’s ripe for reinvention.

The Gin

Negroni Variants

Classic London Dry brings sharpness, but modern gins like Monkey 47 or St. George’s Botanivore layer florals, citrus, even spice.

Want depth? Go barrelaged. “Gin is the backbone— but also the wildcard,” says Adrian Vero, beverage director at Lupo & Co. “Choose one that holds its own against Campari’s bite.”

The Boulevardier swaps gin for bourbon—rounder, richer, more brooding. Ideal for cooler nights, it leans into warmth while keeping the Negroni’s signature bitterness intact. The White Negroni trades vermouth and Campari for Lillet Blanc and Suze, offering a lighter, earthier sip that surprises even seasoned drinkers.

Then there’s the Unusual Negroni (gin, Aperol, Lillet)—a softer, citrusy take perfect for garden parties or pre-dinner refreshment.

Each version keeps the spirit but changes the story.

The Vermouth Sweet vermouth isn’t just filler—it’s the balance.

Carpano Antica is rich and vanilla-laced; Cocchi di Torino brings bright fruit and bitterness. Pro tip: keep it refrigerated and use within a month. Vermouth left lingering on the shelf loses its soul.

The Build

The Campari Question While purists may shudder, alternatives exist. Try Capelletti for a softer bitterness or Luxardo Bitter for a more herbal edge.

Even Campari itself has evolved—its formula was quietly altered in the early 2000s, making space for reinterpretation.

The Negroni How an Italian aperitivo became a modern mixology staple.

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Stirred, never shaken— agitation is the enemy of clarity. A Negroni should be velvety, not frothy. Serve over a single large cube or a slow-melting sphere to maintain chill without dilution. And don’t skip the orange peel: express the oils over the drink, not just into it. It adds aroma, brightness, and finish. In a cocktail this simple, every detail is visible—so make each one count.

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LAMAISON D’OR

By Dan Lalande Photography by Nicolai Gregory

A Shining Example of Canadiana

At a time when domestic retailers are scrambling to Canadianize their product lines, Ottawa’s own La Maison d’Or is well ahead of the curve—25 years ahead. A quarter of a century ago, company president Brent Harden was on a business junket in Antwerp, Belgium. He was seated in the offices of Overseas Diamonds, a mining, trading, and holding company operating out of Nevada. Out of nowhere, a representative from that company defied him with the following directive: “Brent, catch this!” What Harden caught would change not only his business but also his life.

The plastic-wrapped parcel, weighing approximately 20 pounds, held millions of dollars in uncut Canadian diamonds. This eye-catching cachet was the first-ever shipment from the newly operational Ekati mine in Yellowknife, NWT. “At that moment,” a still dazzled Harden recounts, “all of the stars aligned for me. I’ve had the privilege of working with these beautiful diamonds every single day since!”

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Jessica Harden, Rita Elias, and Brent Harden of La Maison d’Or are part of the team behind the store’s long-standing commitment to Canadian craftsmanship, from in-house design to educating clients on the value of natural Canadian diamonds.

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Brent Harden, President of La Maison d’Or, has spent 25 years championing Canadian diamonds, beginning with the historic first shipment from the Ekati mine in Yellowknife.

Buoyed by his catch, Harden made a trip to see the mine for himself. Not only did he get to witness the inner workings of an unheralded Canadian success story, but he was also made aware of its ancillary benefits.

The Ekati mine has created hundreds of jobs for the surrounding Dene community, an Indigenous people who are part of the larger Athapaskan language family. Members of the Dene Nation enjoy some of the highest salaries a miner can earn. Further, 10% of the profits of all crystals go directly into the amelioration of that locality. “It’s incredible what that mine means to the city of Yellowknife and the local Dene people,” corroborates Harden. “Here in Ottawa, our store”—the 75-year-old, family-owned business has its flagship store in Orleans— “continues to educate clients about the beauty, brilliance, and rarity of natural Canadian diamonds—plus the meaning of what purchasing a Canadian diamond truly means to local communities. It is so fulfilling and fun to be able to honour that legacy.”

In order to spread the word even further, La Maison d’Or enjoys a mutually beneficial partnership with the Natural Diamond Council, an umbrella organization devoted to the promotion of natural diamonds worldwide through research, retail partnerships, downloadable assets, and other educational vehicles.

“The Natural Diamond Council values our partnership and vice versa,” affirms Harden, “especially now that supporting a true Canadian success story is more important than ever before. They’re a valuable aid in our mission to broadcast the quality and beauty of Canada’s natural diamonds to the city of Ottawa.”

That message is coming in loud and clear.

La Maison d’Or fashions over 400 customdesigned rings, pendants, bracelets, and earrings every year using Canadian gold and labour. Over 95% of the company’s jewellery is made in Canada.

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That includes Maple Leaf Diamonds, a popular product line that began around the time that Harden snatched that lifechanging bag of diamonds out of the air.

Developed by a family-owned company in Toronto, the brand is one of La Maison d’Or’s top sellers. “Clients love the beauty and rarity of the diamonds,” says Harden, “along with the stunning mountings Maple Leaf Diamonds has created to show them off. They even have a Canadian designer, Shelly Purdy, who designs exceptionally beautiful Canadian-themed treasures. We are so proud to collaborate with such an exceptional Canadian brand.”

From Maple Leaf Diamonds to La Maison d’Or’s own upcoming collection, over 95% of the jewellery sold in-store is made in Canada using natural Canadian diamonds, gold, and platinum.

Impressive as that is for the proudly patriotic Harden and his staff (including Rita, Tammy, Arpi, Tracy, Laura, Erica, Melissa, and Amey), it’s still not enough.

The company remains devoted to wearing its Canadianess not only on its sleeve but on clients’ fingers, ears, and around their necks. “We are also creating our very own line of Canadian diamond jewellery,” Harden announces enthusiastically. “Manufactured in Canada by Canadians, this line will include unique engagement rings, anniversary rings, and wedding bands, all crafted in Canadian gold and platinum.

We are very excited to unveil this new line in the coming months.”

As for the increasingly volatile state of CanadaU.S. relations, the level-headed Harden offers fellow businesses a cautious, confident perspective. His message: “Simply, hang in there!” That said, he has more detailed advice for Canadian consumers: “Support Canadian businesses as much as you can,” he offers with the same deep-set concern and signature kindliness he affords his customers. “Canada is overflowing with so many amazing businesses; we need to join forces and keep ourselves strong. The U.S. has done many good things in the world over the years, but now, it’s our time to shine.”

To shine like a Canadian-made diamond from La Maison d’Or.

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MAGAZINE S of t Lighting

Skip the overhead floodlights. Opt for dimmable wall sconces, solar lanterns, or rechargeable table lamps like the Poldina Pro for a warm, inviting glow that carries you from sunset to starlight.

ALFRESCO

EVENINGS

4 Subtle Home Upgrades That Quietly Transform Your Space

Warm nights call for open-air rituals. This season, patios become extensions of the home—styled with low-slung furniture and flickering candlelight. Dining moves outdoors, but so does reading, working, and wine-sipping. It’s not about grandeur—it’s about slowing down, curating your corner of sky, and letting the breeze do the talking.

Elevate d S eating

Trade plastic chairs for low-profile teak or woven rope lounge sets. Brands like HAY and Neighbor offer sleek, modular pieces that feel like an indoor living room—just weatherproof.

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O utdoor R ugs Ground your space with a performance rug in neutral tones or subtle stripes. Look for options made from recycled PET, which handle rain and sun without fading or fraying.

Blue continues to be a standout choice for patio cushi al-inspired aesthetic, but for its practical performance. dust and pollen, and stays cooler under the sun compa wood, stone, or greenery, it offers a timeless accent th

ions—not just for its calming, coast. The colour resists fading, conceals ared to darker hues. Paired with hat elevates any backyard setup.

The B a r Ca r t A powder-coated steel bar cart or rattan rolling tray sets the tone for evening spritzes. Stock it with glassware that won’t shatter, like Estelle Colored Glass or Fazeek.

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PRESTIGE HOME IMPROVEMENT SETTING A NEW STANDARD IN HVAC WITH VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND VALUES-DRIVEN INNOVATION When Louis Lacombe-Denis and Travis Moriarty co-founded Prestige Home Improvement in 2022, they weren’t just starting a company — they were launching a movement. In an industry long defined by opaque pricing, outdated practices, and reactive service, the two entrepreneurs set out to build something radically different: a modern, valuesdriven HVAC company focused on speed, transparency, and trust.

The pair didn’t come from the trades. With backgrounds in sales, leadership, and customer experience, they brought a fresh perspective to a stagnant industry.

“I saw a massive opportunity to reimagine how HVAC services were delivered,” says Louis. “Travis and I knew that if we led with systems, clarity, and integrity, we could build something bigger than just a service business.”

That vision became Prestige Home Improvement—a residential HVAC company specializing in heat pumps and energy-efficient upgrades. But the product is only one piece of the story. From day one, Prestige was designed with a longterm vision: not just to fix what’s broken,

but to transform how homeowners interact with their homes—proactively, confidently, and on their own terms.

A Blueprint For Integrity Unlike many HVAC companies that evolve from the workbench up, Prestige was structured with intention from day one. Louis and Travis designed internal systems, defined clear standards, and created a scalable blueprint for delivering consistent excellence—before ever hiring their first technician.

“Integrity isn’t just a word on our wall—it’s how we operate,” says Travis. “If we say we’ll be there, we’ll be there. If something goes wrong, we fix it. No exceptions.”

That commitment runs deep. The company’s proprietary software platform, Prestige Pro, keeps projects on track, ensures seamless homeowner communication, and equips technicians with tools to perform at the highest level.

What started as an internal tool is now evolving into a licensable platform—both a new revenue stream and a clear signal of Prestige’s industry-shaping ambitions.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN SISK

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Travis Moriarty (left) and Louis LacombeDenis (right) co-founders of Prestige Home Improvement, oversee a growing HVAC operation with active teams in Ontario and Nova Scotia, and expansion plans set for the West Coast by 2026. Their values-driven approach and proprietary tech platform are helping to reshape the home services industry across Canada.

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“Integrity isn’t just a word on our wall—it’s how we operate,” says Travis. “If we say we’ll be there, we’ll be there.

If something goes wrong, we fix it.

No exceptions.”

People First, Then Product Prestige’s team isn’t just a workforce—it’s a community of brand ambassadors. Every technician is trained not only in technical excellence, but also in communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Each team member is expected to embody the Prestige promise: fast, honest, solution-oriented service that leaves no room for doubt or delay.

And it’s working.

Whether they’re installing a high-efficiency heat pump in Ontario or helping a Nova Scotia homeowner navigate complex rebate paperwork, Prestige delivers a turnkey experience that removes friction at every stage.

“Most people only think about HVAC when it breaks,” says Louis. “We want to flip that. We want homeowners to be proactive, informed, and in control of their comfort.”

That approach is fueling the development of a seasonal maintenance program and a customer-facing portal offering system health reports, digital reminders, and personalized upgrade recommendations—innovations that blend technology with a human touch.

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Growth Without Compromise With operations now thriving in Ontario and Nova Scotia, the company’s sights are set on the West Coast, where a full expansion is planned by 2026. But scaling for scale’s sake isn’t the goal. Louis and Travis are meticulous about preserving culture, quality, and core values as they grow.

“We’re obsessed with getting better,” says Travis. “Every team member knows that. Whether it’s our tenth job or our ten-thousandth, the standard doesn’t change.”

That commitment to excellence is deeply embedded in their leadership style. The co-founders regularly invest in conferences, mentorship, and team education—exposing their rising leaders to new ideas and frameworks from both inside and outside the industry. For Louis and Travis, leadership isn’t about hierarchy. It’s about empowerment.

“We hire for alignment before experience,” adds Louis. “The right mindset will always outperform the right resume.”

A New Standard for Home Services In a time when homeowners value reliability and transparency more than ever, Prestige Home Improvement is raising the bar. The company’s tech-forward, people-first approach offers more than just heating and cooling—it offers peace of mind.

This isn’t just a success story about two young entrepreneurs disrupting an aging industry. It’s about the power of vision, the discipline of systems, and the belief that doing things the right way—every time—isn’t just good business. It’s the future of home improvement.

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Shopping Guide Curated Picks for Stylish Warm Weather Living

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02 1. Assouline Kyoto Serenity Coffee Table Book, $150; 2.

Re/Fine Laya Fluted Acrylic Drinking Glass Set, $81; 3. Bang & Olufsen Beosound A5 Portable Nordic Weave Speaker, $2,200; 4.Acqua Di Parma Luce Di Colonia Candle, $135; 5. Missoni Home Timmy Throw, Col. 221, $894; 6. La DoubleJ TwoPiece Soup And Dinner Plate Set, $290

Statement Season

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his spring, decor takes a daring turn with vibrant pops of colour, gleaming gold accents, and a touch of Art Deco flair. Think statement pieces that command attention, rich textures that exude warmth, and sleek designs that blend vintage glamour with modern sophistication.

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WEEKDAYS 6–10

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