The Mint Experience Westman March 2022

Lighthouse Wellness Centre Heal yourself and find your light Women in Business Love & Connection in the kitchen

The Mint Experience Westman VOL 6 ISS 2 MARCH 2022

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FIRST WORD From Editor in Chief

JAMIE WILLEY

Volume 6 Issue 2, March 2022 Publisher Mint Marketing Experience Inc.

Editor Jamie Willey

Graphic Designer Ghislaine Moffitt

Writer Lisa Cress

“There is something so special about a woman who dominates in a man’s world. It takes certain grace, strength, intelligence, fearlessness and the nerve to never take no as an answer” - Rhianna hat does strength mean to you? Depending on the situation, it can range from the simplest physical strength to the emotional strength that guides us through thick and thin. This issue is filled with an abundance of women who continue to build the cornerstones of our community.

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Our Cover Feature, Luanne and Jenny of Lighthouse Wellness are building their dream to provide a space that welcomes everyone to heal and help them take the important steps to work on their mental health.

We don’t always see ourselves as strong, especially when we falter. Strength can be internal that takes the shape of courage to face the unknown. Our world isn’t what it once was and we can take that to be an opportunity to be even better. As we read about the wonderful women of dentistry at Princess Dental and their accomplishments that guide them in their personal and professional lives.

This issue is dedicated to my pillar of strength, who embodies every definition of strength, who keeps me going when I don’t think that I can – my mom, Natalie , and that my friends, is my strength.

With gratitude,

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Contributing Writers Shelby Wood Kim Raaijmakers Michael van Lierop Nancy Dutiaume Stefanie Baranowski Anna Dumas

Photographer Studio 78

Cover Photo

Rheanon Neale Photography

PRINT ADVERTISING & DIGITAL MARKETING INQUIRIES hello@mintmarketingexperience.ca FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES Jamie Willey jamie@mintmarketingexperience.ca 204-721-1296 mintmarketingexperience.ca The Mint Experience is published by Mint Marketing Experience Inc. The Mint Experience Westman is published 6 times per calendar year. Articles and art may not be reprinted without written permission from the Publisher. The Mint Marketing Experience Inc assumes no responsibility to return any unsolicited editorial or graphic material. The Mint Marketing Experience Inc. considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible, although reporting inaccuracies can occur; consequently, readers using this information should do so at their own risk.

Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 29 10th Street Unit J Brandon, MB R7A 4E4

CONTENTS 8 18 20 28

IN THIS ISSUE 8

Fashion & Beauty

18

Health & Wellness

28

Eats & Drinks

36

House & Home

40

Local Culture

FEATURES 20

Cover Story: Lighthouse Wellness Centre

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Love & Connection in the kitchen

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CONTRIBUTORS IN THIS ISSUE

JAMIE WILLEY Born and raised in Manitoba, Jamie comes from a long line of entrepreneurs. Owner of Studio 78 Lofts, and Editor in Chief of The Mint Experience, Jamie has a soft spot for the fearless business community.

Combining her creative photography talents with her business roots, she is proudly bringing stories and inspiration with Westman’s best magazine.

Jamie has a love for cooking, and of course delicious wines. She is very proud of her two boys, Braden and Nate, who never cease to amaze her with their wit, humour and compassion.

REGAN BUETI

Regan comes from a long line of Entrepreneurs and has always known she would run her own business one day, but didn’t know in what form.

After graduating from Fashion School in LA, she went home to Winnipeg and worked as a clothing designer for 7 years, before combining her two dreams into one, and Style Bar came to life in 2013. She strives to make everyone feel welcome, and beautiful when they step into Style Bar and she wants you to feel like you’re shopping in your best friends closet. She hopes to show her daughter Emilia how hard work and determination can make all your dreams come true.

STEFANIE BARANOWSKI How can Diamond Lotus help you? Stefanie Baranowski is the CEO and Founder of Diamond Lotus. She lives eats and breathes health and wellness.

With a live to learn spirit that she shares with intentional thoughts and kindness through her corporate wellness services. She has been in the health and wellness field for 20 years with experience, education and knowledge in various areas of health and wellness.

Diamond Lotus works at helping you incorporate your definition of wellness into your daily routines, your workplace, and into your transformative self.

LISA CRESS Lisa Cress is an advertising specialist, writer and wannabe fantasy author living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She started her freelance career under the name Slay it in Writing in 2019 and has had the opportunity to write and create for a variety of publications and companies. Her expertise is in connecting businesses to their audiences with copy and creative that engages, entertains and inspires. Get in touch with her at slayitwithlisa@gmail.com.

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SHELBY WOOD Shelby absolutely has a deep appreciation for food, and is working on putting together a cookbook, which is a real passion project for her. Since her Dad passed pretty horrifically 3 years ago she found herself searching for understanding and mainly ways to work through trauma and grief. For Shelby, food it is not only nourishment, but a real form of love, bringing people together in a special way.

Especially right now with what is going on in our world, it can connect us from right inside our homes. The kitchen is the heart, it’s where the tunes get turned up!

“Probably embarrassingly, if you could be a fly on the wall, as I sing into my kitchen utensil, and sassily dance like I’m Beyonce, but hey, that’s the joy!” says Shelby

MICHAEL VAN LIEROP Michael van Lierop is President & Founder of New Outlook Wealth, a Manitoba-based wealth & advisory firm that brings financial planning and low investment management fees to all Canadians, regardless of their wallet size. Visit their website at www.newoutlook.ca to learn more and to find an advisor!

KIM RAAIJMAKERS Kim Raaijmakers is a mom of two, a business professional of 20+ years and personal development junkie turned transformation coach. Kim is helping women leaders create their best lives, by creating clarity of their vision, developing undeniable belief and discovering strategies that make success inevitable. What began as a personal journey, she has turned into a mission to help women experience the same freedom. When you’re ready for your best life, reach out for a conversation at info@kimraaijmakers.com or check out kimraaijmakers.com

NANCY DUTIAUME Make Up Artist, Entrepreneur, Mentor. Owner and Lead Make Up Artist behind MADE Beauty Company. With a team of 17 professional make up artists and hair stylists, donning professional client services and skills. I am on a mission to bring out the beauty in each person that I meet, through make up artistry, teaching skills and mentor ship. With 20+ years in the Beauty Industry as a Professional Make Up Artist & Beauty Expert, 8 years as an entrepreneur and my experience as a leader in the industry allows me to help others let their lights shine. MADE Beauty Company is a collective of extraordinary make up artists and hair stylists in Winnipeg, MB. We provide onsite beauty services for weddings, engagements, beauty shoots, TV, print, runway, commercial and more. www.madebeautyco.com The Mint Experience

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Get colourful!

Lime green, citrus orange or bubble-gum pink. Spring 2022 doesn’t have a colour - if it’s vivid, it’s in. Brighten up your closet this season. Wear head to toe or use an accent piece to add a pop to a neutral look. A bright coat over a cute, neutral dress? Yes, please!

Aria Mini Dress $69.00 Dottie Open Front Coat $105.00

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Look good staying warm

Classic Trench $129.00

Manitoba has been a little cold this winter – so maybe we should talk about coats?

Fight the chill in the air with a gorgeous trench coat, which are back on trend this spring.

Choose a classic, neutral jacket to as a staple piece to help bring you into warmer weather.

Available at Style Bar, 470 River Ave, Winnipeg MB | Or shop online www.shopstylebar.com The Mint Experience

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a

Jewelry

Season of the dreamer

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Layering dainty, delicate necklaces is as on trend as ever. Say goodbye to winter with warm gold tones. Find pieces that come as a set to make layering all that much simpler. Give your style a personal twist with an engraved coin that features your star sign, favourite symbol or initial.

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c The stars align with a bold statement piece. Larger links are among the top trends for 2022.

Wear oversized gold chains solo to make a statement or layer them with other over-the-top pieces to play-up any outfit and add some personality and style.

d Items and Prices a) Zodiac Necklace $39 b) Initial Necklace $35 c) Misc Prices d) Grace Necklace $49

Available at Style Bar, 470 River Ave, Winnipeg MB | Or shop online www.shopstylebar.com The Mint Experience

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At Home Blow Out, Salon Quality Results

BY BRITTANY MONKMAN, SENIOR STYLIST, MADE BEAUTY COMPANY

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e have all had a bad hair day, and it totally has the power to make or break our day. Knowing how to present yourself is imperative to feeling like a #boss. Whether in the office, on a zoom call, or networking, looking your best suggests you have it all together. Even if you don’t ;) Begin with clean, towel dried hair. Using suitable shampoo can make or break your style! Talk with your stylist about what is right for your hair type.

Be sure to identify needs of the hair when selecting products. Questions to ponder - What is the forecast?

Biggest challenge? Are you looking for hold or volume, shine, hydration or texturizing products?

Priming your hair, allows for other products to distribute evenly throughout and prevents build-up of styling products in certain areas. Hair is porous, so working a primer into damp hair protects your hair from damage.

For Nancy, I chose Milkshake Incredible Milk and Blow Dry Primer throughout. For the root, KMS Sea Salt Spray. This amazing spray doubles as a finishing product!

Finally, I used KMS Hot Flex Spray from mid hair to ends. These products work together to create a pretty, volumized style, with less effort by cutting dry time.

To create that perfect salon blowout, switch to a blow dry brush. The Sutra Blow Dry Brush is my favourite. This tool has heat control settings and removes the need for additional hair tools.

1 | Using your blow drier, rough dry to reduce moisture by 70%. This look is more efficient when you have damp hair.

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Style front sections and fringe first. This hair can be super stubborn if set the wrong way.

If the brush gets too hot, turn the setting to air only. The brush remains hot, while continuing to dry your hair.

Switch back to heat as needed.

2 | Section a row of hair starting at the bottom. The width of the brush will help you gauge the size of the sections. Work section by section towards the back. Lift hair 90 degrees from your scalp, rounding downward and pulling through to the ends.

Dry from root to ends. One trick I do for more detailing and personalization, is finish the section by holding the brush at the root for a few seconds, remove. Next, wrap the ends around the brush once and hold for a few seconds. Unwrap, smooth and twist around fingertips.

Quick tips - lifting creates volume. Tension creates smoothness. Twisting creates bend and texture.

Continue working your way up, section by section.

3 | If needed, lightly run a flat iron over the

top layer from mid section to ends. Finish with hairspray to tame any fly aways. My favourite is Milkshake Strong-Hold Hairspray.

Voilà! Bouncy, polished, and beautiful hair at home, that brings out the professional in you and lasts for days! For a refresh and extra flare, spray dry shampoo and pair with a hairpin or low pony to switch up your look from day to day.

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THE BUSINESS

of Beauty

BY NANCY DUTIAUME, MAKEUP ARTIST BEAUTY EXPERT, MADE BEAUTY COMPANY

A perfectly polished makeup application, allowing every business woman to put her best foot forward.

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It’s been a tricky time trying to navigate the new “work from home” life. It’s become easy to throw on those yoga pants and live, “business on top”, and just plain lazy on the bottom. Let’s be honest, showing up less than “dressed for success” in rolled out of bed mode, has become not only common, but near acceptable. Camera off is always an option, right?

But how good is this for our mental health.

Begin breaking the COVID habit and start living in the “only one time to make a first impression” quota again.

Having a polished look doesn’t have to be complicated.

Incorporate multi use products into your daily makeup routine, to create a flawless look, in less time.

TOOLS | Choose a collection of brushes that have specific use. Purchasing just a few individual brushes can be much more beneficial for you, than a collection of brushes that aren’t the shapes and bristles you need to create a look. These 5 MAC Cosmetics Brushes are a perfect start to your collection and will have you mastering your makeup routine in no time.

CONCEAL WITH CONFIDENCE | Many of us have discolouration not only under our eyes, but on our lids as well. Utilizing a concealer strategically to conceal any depth under the eye area, or redness on the lid, will instantly brighten your look.

Set with powder and you’ll be bright eyed in not time. Try the Nars Radiant Concealer. Brighten and perfect in one simple product.

SET, SET, SET | Finding a coveted setting powder that creates a natural finish can be tricky. Investing in the incredible Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette will be a decision you’ll never regret. This setting powder, highlighter and contour in one can be used by highlighting and shaping the face, or delicately glide your brush over all 3 shades and dust all over to add some beautiful colour.

BEST IN BASE | Simplify creating a flawless base by using a multifaceted tinted foundation, that contains skincare components and SPF. The results, super glowy skin with just enough coverage. My favourite is the Beautycounter Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20. Moisture, tint, and SPF in one. Why make things complicated?

LOVE THOSE LASHES | Mascara is one item I’m absolutely okay to splurge on.

Find one that’s magic to your lashes and stick with it! Add a Lash Primer for maximum lash extension and volume.

I’m loving the Lash Idôle Lash-Lifting & Volumizing Waterproof Mascara. A volumizing mascara that keeps my lashes lush, while extending my length with just enough drama. Your lashes will seen for miles. Ok, maybe just defined for those zoom calls behind spectacles.

BLUSH. ALWAYS | Adding a pop of colour on your cheeks can liven up your whole look with one easy step. Popping that same shade of blush on your lid to add just a bit of freshness? Well ok! Focus on creating colour on your cheeks and blending in a circular motion. This will give you softness with just enough colour to have you perfectly polished.

LOFTY LIPS | Creating a soft lip is effortless with the Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner. A perfectly workable lip pencil with the creamiest formulation, that sets down to create long wear. This pencil allows you to fill in your lip and create a lipstick like finish.

Pop on your favourite lip gloss for just the right shine.

Let’s get back to being dressed for success.

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Beauty empowerment Dr. Barb Kelleher believes there’s no shame in wanting to look good and feel good

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

If you feel guilty about wanting to enhance your beauty and feel gorgeous – this is your sign to stop.

“There isn’t anything wrong with wanting to do something for yourself that’s going to improve your looks and make you feel good,” says Dr. Barb Kelleher, Owner, The Skin and Vein Centre. “When we feel confident and good in our own skin, we live our best lives.”

Dr. Barb Kelleher has been practicing medicine for just over 30 years. She began her career as a family physician and then took the leap to start her own clinic in 2006. She continued with family practice up until 2013, when she switched to focus on vein and aesthetic treatments.

“I saw that there was a need for a clinic that was the best when it came to medical aesthetics and vein treatment in Manitoba,” explains Dr. Kelleher. “I enjoy the cosmetic side of medicine because it really makes people happy.

Every service we offer at the clinic, from anti-aging treatments to body sculpting, is a confidence booster.”

Dr. Kelleher has a decorated career. She’s been a member and past president of Doctors Manitoba, diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, and Fellow and active member of the Canadian Society of Phlebology.

“In my career, one of the many challenges I faced was getting involved in medical politics,” says Dr. Kelleher. “I was the president for Doctors Manitoba from 2016 to 2017.

I’m glad I took that step and embraced the opportunity to

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“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”

- Coco Chanel

chair meetings. I proved to myself that I could do it just as well as any of my male colleagues.”

When it comes to women in leadership and progress for gender equality in the workplace, Dr. Kelleher believes things are shifting for the better.

“I think things are improving – but more women need to get involved in leadership and believe they can do it,” Dr. Kelleher says. “Back when I had my daughter, I was only able to take four months of leave and that took me two years to pay back the clinic I was with at the time.

Today, thanks to Doctors Manitoba, there’s a parental leave program – but it could be better. Inequality still exists.”

Dr. Kelleher has no regrets about her career journey and is incredibly grateful to have the support of her family and peers.

“My husband and children have always been rock-solid.

They’ve supported me every step of the way,” Dr. Kelleher says. “Becoming a business owner is an evolution. I hope any woman looking to start her own business follows her heart and doesn’t give up on her dreams.”

They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If that’s true, then the only beholder worth their salt is the one looking back at you in the mirror. If all it takes is a little beauty treatment to get there, why not?

As Dr. Kelleher says – look good, feel good!

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

HARNESSING THE POWER OF YOUR MIND!

BY KIM RAAIJMAKERS

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Ever stepped into a meeting and already begin to feel irritated when you see who is there?

DECIDE WHAT YOU WANT TO FEEL OR HOW YOU WANT TO RESPOND.

Is there a song that you hear takes you right back to high school?

So you could choose to feel excited or motivated.

Or maybe you want to calm yourself down and remember to breathe.

Maybe it’s a smell, that takes you right back to a specific place and time?

These are natural ways your brain has associated certain sounds and smells with a memory or feeling. Within neuroscience this is called anchoring. You’ve anchored a specific sensation based on something that you see, hear, smell, touch or feel. This happens when you in a heightened state of emotion, both positive and negative; your brain takes note to remember, so that next time it is easier for your brain to know what to do. So now each time you hear that song, smell or feeling, your trigger an automatic reaction in your brain which creates a specific feeling or behavior.

This is a reason why if you don’t like conflict, you may go into a state of avoidance.

Same as each time I hear “Time of Your Life” by Green Day I’m taken back to my high school graduation and prom. The feelings mixed of relief to have graduated, nervous about what comes next, excitement to start a new journey, sadness to the ending of a community in which I had spent so many years. Just this one song triggers so many feelings and thoughts.

Why does any of this matter?

CHOOSE IF YOU WANT IT TO BE SOMETHING YOU HEAR, SEE, FEEL OR SMELL. All that upbeat music that plays before a sports game is meant to pump up the audience, you can do the same. Pick your favorite song that gets you feeling energetic and motivate.

Or do you want to calm down when you’re irritated or stressed? You could choose to take a deep breath (or three) before you respond. As a side note, this has worked so well that my children now know that I’m calming myself down when the inevitable complaints over dinner begin, because I’ve trained my brain to just breathe rather than to react.

GET STARTED AND PRACTISE. This does not happen all at once, you will have to take the steps to put the feeling you want with the anchor you want to create. Put on a song that gives you that sense of energy and play it loud, dance to it and create an experience from it. Do it every day and you will notice you walk away with the energy and motivation you wanted.

You can make these anchors yourself. You can use them to pump yourself up in the morning with energy, confidence and motivation. You can use anchors to calm yourself down in moments when you need it.

Each time you start to feel stressed, take a deep breath. And if you can’t remember to do this in the moment, practise by imaging yourself in that situation and then seeing yourself taking a deep breath.

Up until now you have been accidently creating anchors which trigger automatic behaviors. Like when you hear the name of your high school bully and begin feeling that sense of dread or stress. Or how when some says there is a test or exam at the end, you already tensing up and thinking I hope I can remember the answers. And honestly, it doesn’t matter what the test is, this is just what happens every time!

It is not about getting this perfect, it will take time for the anchors to take hold and become as automatic as the ones that you have accumulated naturally over your life. How awesome is it when you know you have the power to get your brain to work for you! The possibilities are endless on how and where you can use this.

So what can you do to create the anchors that you want?

So what are you ready to try today?

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COVER FEATURE

Heal yourself and find your light

Lighthouse Wellness Centre is a private, women-led clinic empowering people to navigate trauma and improve their mental health

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY RHEANON NEALE PHOTOGRAPHY

Jenny Steele and Luanne Rae are passionate about compassion. As the Co-Owners of Lighthouse Wellness Centre, both women are psychiatric nurses with formal training in evidence-based therapies and counselling techniques. The two have found their calling in helping people manage their mental health, weather life’s storms and deal with difficult situations.

“Our dream was to create a space where people feel comfortable and safe to talk about sensitive topics and

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what they have going on in their life,” says Luanne.

“We’ve done our best to make our centre not feel like a clinic. When people come see us and they’re happy and completely themselves – it’s very rewarding. I love that we can provide comfort for people to get them through difficult times.”

The past few years have certainly been challenging for many. Research has shown an overall increase in substance use, depression and anxiety since the start

“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” - Eleanor Brownn Lighthouse Wellness Centre offers services in person or over the phone. Luanne and Jenny are exceptionally accommodating so their clients don’t continue to struggle and feel alone. Young mothers without support, for example, can bring their children with them to appointments.

Jenny and Luanne are both mothers with families themselves. As one can imagine, the balance between their business, clients and families is fast-paced and demanding.

“We’d be lying if we said it wasn’t hard to keep up the momentum some days,” Luanne says. “I think it works because we make a point to take care of ourselves, too. We make sure we eat; we take breaks and do the little things that revive us. We know how important it is to bring our best selves to the table for every person who needs us.”

of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Even people who have never struggled with their mental health have been affected.

“We opened our doors in October of 2021 and have continued to build our business and gain more clients weekly,” Jenny explains. “Since the pandemic, talking about our mental health has become much less taboo.

It’s a good thing to see people acknowledging they have something going on and reaching out.”

Clients come to Lighthouse Wellness Centre from every walk of life. Jenny and Luanne help families, teens, adults and children as young as three years old.

“I have worked with clients of all ages to help them regain self-awareness, confidence, emotional regulation and distress tolerance,” Jenny says. “I’ve seen clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, identity exploration, gender dysphoria, stress, trauma, grief and anger. It’s very broad.”

“I really enjoy working with youth and have training in what’s called therapeutic play therapy, which is great for young children because they don’t necessarily have to talk,” Luanne adds.

Book an appointment with Jenny or Luanne and learn more about Lighthouse Wellness Centre at lighthousewellnesscentre.com.

Lighthouse Wellness Centre 29-10th Street, 4th Floor Brandon, MB 204-728-0054 office@lighthousewellnesscentre.ca

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The Butterfly Language of Growth

BY STEFANIE BARANOWSKI, DIAMOND LOTUS YOGA

When I sit back and reflect on where I was a year ago, I was a different me. I can see I have grown and changed with my experiences and all the things I have had to overcome. I am now mentally stronger and wiser and have a better understanding of myself.

I look back at what I’ve gone through and feel proud of my ability to find growth and transformation through all the mud and pressure.

Opportunities for growth are given to us daily.

Sometimes these opportunities are strongly evident and placed directly in front of us, and other times they are presented to us as small markers or unclear ways that may make us question a deeper meaning behind their presence. Sometimes we won’t know what that opportunity for growth might bring until we take on the challenge to see it, greet it, and meet it with open arms.

Growth happens in the challenges, the discomfort, and the mess of the non-linear path. To find growth requires us to move out of our comfort zone and feel all the emotions that come to the surface when

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we come face to face with our fears. Our comfort zone is usually what’s consistent, predictable, and gives a sense of safety. It’s where we usually find ourselves in a nice, relaxed state in our mind and body. However, we don’t manifest growth when we stay the same.

The one thing that is constant in life is change; change is always occurring around us day to day, hour to hour, and minute to minute. We can choose to either resist change and stay within the confines of our comfort zone, or we can choose to embrace change and move with it and grow with it. Growth happens when we decide to embrace the discomfort, as mentally and emotionally challenging as it is.

It’s in embracing the change and discomfort that we find transformation over time. Just as the butterfly needs time in its cocoon to transform, so do we as humans. When we welcome change and discomfort, and can find patience in the concept of time, transformation will transpire. We might not notice the transformation as it’s happening, but when we

give ourselves the opportunity to self-reflect in days, weeks, months, and years, we can see that transformation is time sensitive. We are not the same person we were a year ago, a month ago, a week ago, or even yesterday. Giving yourself the opportunity to embrace change every day will allow you to move towards that transformation to being the best version of you.

Moving through change can feel frustrating at times and as though the light at the end is far out of reach. It’s in those times we need to show the most kindness to ourselves. Growth and change require us to self-reflect and find gratitude in even the smallest of things. So, let your heart be bigger than your ego and your soul shine brighter than the darkness of the day.

“A diamond needs to go through an immense amount of pressure before it finds its true beauty, and the lotus flower needs to find its growth in muddy water.”

– Stefanie Baranowski (Diamond Lotus, 2021).

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Business Profile | Princess Dental

Women in dentistry

Get to know the dentists transforming smiles and changing lives at Princess Dental

BY LISA TACHAN PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments and progress women have made in the workforce across all professions. In the dental profession, women dominate in roles such as dental assistants or hygienists, but it wasn’t until the last decade that we’ve started to see a rise in female dentists. In fact, dentistry 24

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is a shifting paradigm, where more and more women are stepping into leadership.

Princess Dental is a perfect reflection of that shift.

Women dominate the office, with four of the five dentists at Princess Dental being female.

Here’s what they had to say about their career journey and what International Women’s Day means to them.

I want to help people achieve their dental goals – and I approach every patient with kindness and compassion.

- Dr. Jill Gudmandson

DR. JILL GUDMANDSON Q: What type of training do you have?

A: I obtained my Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) from the University of Manitoba. I then continued my education for an extra year and completed a General Practice Residency at the Health Sciences Centre. Within that residency, I was trained in oral and IV sedation and had the opportunity to work with those with special needs and medically compromised adults, as well as infection and trauma cases.

Since entering private practice I have expanded my general dentistry education by attending the Pankey Institute and will be starting my journey at the Kois Institute in Seattle this fall (COVID pending).

Q: Describe your chair-side manner A: I want to help people achieve their dental goals – and I approach every patient with kindness and compassion.

I believe very strongly in building trust. Before we begin any treatment plan, I always make sure my patient fully understands it, what’s involved and why I think it’s the best course of action for them.

Q: As a female dentist, have you ever faced any gender-specific barriers in your career?

A: In previous generations, dentists were primarily male. When I first started, there were some people that weren’t used to discussing their issues with a young female dentist. One memorable example of this was a gentleman who was very concerned if I was “strong enough” to do his extractions.

And - as a woman who is self-employed, I do not get parental leave benefits. When I became a mom in 2019 and then again in 2021, it was tough to figure out how much time to take off to heal and bond with my children. Luckily, I work with a wonderful group of people who all are very supportive and family oriented.

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“I like to take a friendly and casual approach with my patients and get to know them on a personal level.”

- Dr. Jessica Carswell

A: When I first started my practice, I was often mistaken for the hygienist or assistant and would have to explain that I was the dentist. It’s interesting to witness how my male colleagues never had to experience this second guessing or questioning of their position. To overcome this, I did my best to carry myself with confidence and started introducing myself as the dentist when first entering the room. I also kept a sense of humour about it and didn’t take those comments too seriously.

One of the challenges of being a female dentist is that we typically can’t access government programs like maternity leave.

- Dr. Brett Embers

DR. JESSICA CARSWELL Q: What do you love most about being a dentist?

A: I love having the opportunity to change the way patients perceive the dentist. I want to help put an end to dental anxiety and help patients get excited about their oral hygiene. Through modern dentistry there are so many amazing tools for prevention and treatment that I am so enthusiastic to share!

Q: Describe your chair-side manner.

A: I like to take a friendly and casual approach with my patients and get to know them on a personal level.

I always look forward to hearing about vacations, grandkids, dogs or exciting milestones before getting started on caring for their teeth. Coming to the dentist doesn’t need to be an anxiety-inducing experience – I do my best to help put patients at ease and feel comfortable.

Q: As a female dentist, have you ever faced any gender-specific barriers in your career?

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DR. BRETT EMBERS Q: Tell us about your education and career path as a dentist.

A: I graduated with my Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Sydney, Australia four years ago, having previously attended Brandon University for my undergraduate degree. Prior to that I was a Registered Animal Health Technologist, where I discovered my interest in dentistry.

In addition to working full-time as a general dentist, I’ve also been the jail dentist at Brandon Correctional Centre over the past couple years, and worked as an Immunizer at the Covid-19 Clinics. I’ve also recently taken on the role of Chief of Dentistry at the Brandon Regional Health Centre.

Q: What challenges do you face as a female dentist and working mother?

A: Working while pregnant in dentistry certainly has its hurdles. It can be very difficult to work with good ergonomics at the best of times, so you can imagine how much more challenging that can be while nine months pregnant. Adding in extra PPE and nausea certainly increases the discomfort as well!

We’re still adjusting to life as a family of three, having a job that you love makes the transition that much easier.

I’m very fortunate to have a wonderful husband at home on parental leave with our son.

“By celebrating the achievements of the women in this field, we can improve visibility and encourage other women to pursue these career paths.” - Dr. Erica Seebach

DR. ERICA SEEBACH Q: What made you decide to pursue a career in dentistry?

A: Dentistry is the perfect combination of art and science. I wanted to pursue a career where I could be creative while exploring my interest in health and physiology. It also provides a ton of variety, allowing me to perform both the diagnosis and treatment for my patients. I may teach a young child about oral health then provide another patient confidence by improving their smile or help relieve someone’s discomfort.

Q: How can we encourage women to pursue careers that are predominantly male?

A: As women, we often underestimate our abilities, yet we have passions and talents that lead us down historically male-led paths. Progress to a genderequal world can be reached by continuing to address barriers and biases and pursue these paths despite the challenges.

Q: Why do you think it is important to celebrate International Women’s Day? A: In many fields, including dentistry, women are underrepresented. Female dentists currently make up fewer generalists and specialists and hold fewer academic and leadership roles. By celebrating the achievements of the women in this field, we can improve visibility and encourage other women to pursue these career paths.

Princess Dental 3409 Victoria Ave, Unit 7 Brandon MB 204-727-0440 info@princessdental.com www.princessdental.com

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EATS & DRINKS

Shelby’s

Directions:

PORK SCHNITZEL with mushroom gravy

3-4 Boneless Pork loin chops

2 tsp garlic

2 eggs

2 tsp paprika

1/2 cup Kelloggs cornflake crumbs

1 tsp salt

2 tsp onion powder

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• On one plate whisk two eggs.

• On another plate, add cornflakes, breadcrumbs and spices.

Ingredients:

1 cup bread crumbs

• Cover boneless pork loin chops in stretch wrap and pound out thinly with a meat pounder or a rolling pin.

1 tsp pepper Oil, canola ½ cup butter

• Like an assembly line, dip your pork into the egg and then into your coating and pat well into the crumbs to cover. Set aside until ready to fry.

• In a large frying pan, add oil to coat the bottom about half inch deep for a shallow fry.

• Add butter and let come to a medium high heat. Then add in your schnitzel.

• Cook for approximately 8 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy.

Mushroom gravy Ingredients: 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms 1/2 cup butter 1 tsp basil 1 tsp onion powder

German yellow bean salad Ingredients: 1 can of yellow wax beans Half a cucumber

1 tsp minced garlic

¼ cup of red onion sliced thinly

½ tsp salt

2/3 cup white vinegar

1 tsp pepper

3 tbsp olive oil

1 cup whipping cream

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp flour whisked together with ½ cup water (this is your “roux” to thicken the gravy)

1 tsp pepper

Directions: • In a small saucepan, brown mushrooms in butter for approximately 5 minutes • Add the rest of the ingredients to combine.

• Let thicken and simmer while continually mixing.

• Serve on top of your Schnitzel.

Directions: • Drain your can of yellow beans and add to a bowl.

• Chop half cucumber into quarters and add to the beans.

• Next, add red onion, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper.

• Toss to mix and coat until combined.

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Business Profile | Shelby Wood

Love and connection in the kitchen Shelby Wood is pouring her heart into a new cookbook

Lovely readers, I am so excited to share that I am on the beautiful journey of creating my very own cookbook! It’s always been my dream to help people make connections and memories through the ritual of preparing food and the enjoyment of eating a great meal. I can’t wait to offer you a cookbook filled with equal parts sassy eats and healthy, nutrition-packed meals.

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Creating my cookbook has been a process so far – but I’ve realized how incredibly important it is to acknowledge that every small step towards a big dream counts. The largest, most worthwhile mountains aren’t conquered in a day!

Many of you already know that the kitchen has always been my place of healing. I deeply struggled with grief and loss after my Dad passed away. My kitchen was a safe space where I could express what I was feeling and

Life is always going to have obstacles – but we can’t let them get in the way of living our best life or pursuing our dreams. - Shelby Wood reconnect with the beautiful memories I have of him.

He and I believed a delicious meal could change your whole mood and that “putting on a good spread” for those you care about is an act of love and service.

If you can’t tell, I am extremely passionate about what food can mentally and emotionally bring to your life.

After all, food isn’t just a source of energy and nutrients – it’s a connection that carries across time.

Preparing and sharing food is such a beautiful part of life. Food connects us all and brings us together.

The recipes and meals we love and enjoy are passed down through families and exchanged among friends.

Through those much-loved recipes, memories of our childhood or departed loved ones live on – and isn’t that incredibly special and wonderful?

Life is always going to have obstacles – but we can’t let them get in the way of living our best life or pursuing our dreams. I have personally had to learn how to let pain fuel me, not break me. Hard times are going to happen – but they are part of the journey.

I am so excited about this cookbook and everything that will go into making it for you! Putting together a cookbook is something I have wanted to do for a long time, and I am proudly and wholeheartedly choosing to pour all my energy into this and make something incredible. Getting to be a part of the memories that are made in the kitchen means the world to me.

Thank you to all of you who have been following my career through the pages of this magazine! I hope one day my cookbook will find its way into your kitchen.

I can’t wait to share my stories, savoury treats and delicious meal ideas with you.

Connect with me on Instagram to see what I’m up to and keep in touch! @allmylove.allmyrecipes Xox Shelby

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You only live once, so drink great wine.

SEVEN DEADLY ZINS Smooth as a girls night out without wine… which lets be honest would be smooth but not as fun. True to to the name it feels like a sin in Zinfandel form. This is a gem of of a wine boasting a full bodied taste with a lot of different flavors.

From the initial burst of jammy berry fruit to the oak spice linger, it should be your new go to for a sassy girls night or a bathtub full of bubbles. Subtleties of raspberry and chocolate but the balance of aroma and flavor. This is the new wine for all your Zins…..

BY ANNA DUMAS

Women’s day

signifies so many things. It shows that we have come so far, we are recognized. Not only as mothers, sisters, aunts, and grandmothers but as the matriarch of our families. We have come a long way. We are now providers of the life created and contributing to society in a way we haven’t in the past. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom, a working mom, or a single woman, you are and forever will be stronger as a gender than ever before! So in honor of that let’s celebrate with our best friend….wine!

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ALAMOS SELECCION MALBEC Everyone would recognize Alamos Malbec, but their new seleccion from the terroir near the Andes Mountains is bold!

With this cool climate red I was expecting a lighter taste. Not the case at all! It blew me away with its astringent beginning leading to plum, oak, pepper and a hint of cherry. If you like bold full bodied and dry this is your new best friend. Classic yet elegant in its well rounded flavor with a lasting finish that will make you crave the next sip….. and a beautiful purple label to boot because who doesn’t love purple?

“Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together” - Elizabeth Taylor

SUNGODDESS SAUVIGNON BLANC Appropriate to its name, the flavors of this delicious wine are certainly indicative of grapes that grew with more sun. It has a fruit forward taste with a kick that can only be recognized as intensely aromatic highlighting tropical fruit and banana while creating a long smooth finish that will please your palate long after the first sip. A slight lemon and mineral characteristic give this beautiful wine a complex and delicious taste. True to its name and highly recommended as we goddesses deserve the best.

FRISKY ZEBRA I wanted to pick something unique and as South Africa isn’t known for its Sauvignon Blancs, I thought I would give it a try. I can tell you I was not disappointed at all from the first sip to the end of the bottle……glass I meant glass……ok bottle this one didn’t get recorked at all!

Easy drinking with classic Sauvignon Blanc character such as melon citrus and a lingering tone of vanilla and honey. We all need to be frisky every once and a while so why not do that with a zebra…. The wine I mean, but you do you girl.

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Why you need a digital marketing strategy in 2022 Entrepreneurs are continually changing and creating ways to make it possible to grow and find new opportunities. Paired with traditional marketing strategies, effective digital techniques complement other methods of marketing.

The internet allows us to reach a whole new market.

Digital marketing has become the norm for a successful business, make sure you are maximizing your digital efforts.

Digital marketing brings opportunities and growth, leading to increased and consistent exposure, more sales and a positive shift to your goal to increase your profits.

Digital marketing comes in various forms: PPC OR PAY-PER-CLICK: It’s a marketing strategy that will draw paid traffic to your business website. The advertiser will pay the publisher every time their ad has been clicked.

SOCIAL MEDIA: It involves platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and more. Promote your brand with valuable content and communicate with your customers.

SEO: This is a marketing strategy that requires businesses to focus on increasing their websites ranking to increase their traffic. The higher your website ranks on Google’s SERP, the more chances it is to grow your brand.

CONTENT MARKETING: It’s a strategy that allows businesses to bring their customers valuable content, focusing on value to attract customers.

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VIDEO MARKETING: A popular and effective marketing content that will bring more customers to your business. Use it to promote your brand, product, show behind the scenes of your business, share stories and testimonials.

EMAIL MARKETING: It’s one of the oldest forms of digital marketing that has one of the highest ROI, by sending out personalized emails to a target audience.

Why Digital Marketing is Important for your Business YOUR CUSTOMERS ARE ONLINE

The online market is the best way to expose your business.

When people hear about your business, they want to learn more about it and will check your presence online to know if you do exist.

If people can’t find anything about you online, chances are you’ll lose them as a customer.

COST-EFFECTIVE AND FASTER

Digital marketing is affordable, and your business can start the process immediately. If you have limited time and resources, spending money to advertise traditionally is not enough.

INCREASED ROI

Many businesses claim that doing advertisements online, whether it is paid or free, has an increased return on investment. It’s possible to have a higher conversion rate

or return on investment because most of your customers can be seen online.

Get to know your target audience and lay out a strategy that will turn your leads into customers.

YOU CAN REACH OUT TO YOUR CUSTOMERS

When you can build a good relationship with your audience, it can boost your business. Build relationships with customers by reaching out to answer their questions, solve issues and turn them into repeat customers.

CATERS TO MOBILE PHONE USERS

There are billions of people using their mobile phones to do research or scroll through social media. When using digital marketing, you can reach out to these people. You can promote your business in ways that mobile phone users are the target.

ESTABLISH YOUR BRANDS REPUTATION

Digital marketing will give your business a chance to establish a rapport, allowing you to show your customers what your business is made of and how you can help them with their needs.

Digital marketing is crucial in the survival of today’s businesses. Mint Marketing Experience can help. Working together, we will show you that your company has a lot of potential to expand because of it.

“Content is King but engagement is Queen, and the lady rules the house!”

Mint Marketing Experience Inc. 204-721-1296 jamie@mintmarketingexperienceca

- Mari Smith

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HOUSE & HOME

7 Essential

Home Office Design Tips Inspire productivity and creativity One of the joys of working from home is that you do not have to sacrifice your style within your office space with cookie cutter desks, bland wall colors and uncomfortable standardized chairs. An organized space goes beyond how it looks. Its functionality and vibes are important to working towards your goals and being in a space that creates the backdrop of possibilities for your future self.

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1.

If you don’t have a desk, make one. While working from home gives you all the comforts of home, don’t forget the real purpose of your home office. Separate your work life and home life and get your laptop out of your bed.

2.

Make use of shelf space. Whether you add in a small shelving unit or hang a shelf of a nearby wall, take advantage of the vertical space to store your papers, notes and any other things you need for daily work tasks.

3.

Allow enough space. Make sure you can work comfortably as you don’t want to sacrifice your productivity for camped quarters. Ask yourself if you will be able to move freely, stand up and sit back from your desk. It can be easy to underestimate how much space you will need.

4.

A place to meet. Will you have clients or colleagues visiting during the day? Plan for some additional seating in your home office design to allow for these sit-down meetings. This can be as simple adding in a settee or 1-2 comfortable chairs that are easy to pull up to your desk.

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5.

Natural light and view. Good lighting is a must for any home office space, especially for the best screen views on your next Zoom meeting. Position your desk facing a window to give you soft, even pleasing light on your face. You can enhance natural light by including a mirror and keeping your walls mostly light in color.

SMALL TIPS AND CHANGES THAT WILL MAKE A BIG IMPACT IN YOUR HOME OFFICE Invest in a Great Chair.

Paint the Walls a Color You Love.

Choose Homey Accessories.

Organize Vertically and Horizontally.

6.

Personalize your accessories. Don’t sacrifice your personal style, and since you are the owner of this work house, this is your way to shine like a #boss.

Think about what or who inspires you to level up.

YOU can decide how you want your home and office to feel. These personal touches will greet you when you start each day and make you feel at home.

7.

Get creative with mugs, cups and vases. Repurpose what you already own as storage tools for every items like pens, scissors, rulers etc. These are an extension of your home and creative flair, so bring that look into your home office.

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Business Profile | Amber Bauman, Grey Pearl Interior Design

Owning her space

Amber Bauman, Grey Pearl Interior Design believes women can have it all - if they want to.

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

Amber Bauman loves the challenge of transforming a room. From residential homes in need of a refresh to clinics and offices looking to enhance their functionality and improve their workplaces, Grey Pearl Interior Design has built a solid reputation from a diverse portfolio of satisfied clients.

Bauman has certainly paid her dues and invested in her career. She studied interior design at the Art Institute of Vancouver and graduated with honours in 2008. She is also certified by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), which demonstrates a practising interior designer has the experience, skill and ability to satisfy a client’s needs and resources.

“I’ve always wanted to be in charge of the work I do and who I build relationships with,” explains Bauman.

“But I also understood that work experience was extremely important. I was with a small design firm for 10 years before I started my own business in 2018.

After starting my family, sole proprietorship felt like the natural next step.”

Interior designers typically work with architects, engineers and construction laborers to determine how an interior space functions and flows. Bauman acknowledges that her profession can be a bit of a boy’s club.

“There are a lot of women in the design industry – but having worked in an architecture firm and being on site a lot, a woman’s expertise is often dismissed,” Bauman says. “I make it a priority to be as educated as I can with my contract documents and when speaking 38

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to other consultants. I deserve respect and to be taken seriously - I know I am very good at my job.”

Bauman finds inspiration to grow and build on her success from her family. The support of her family strengthens her determination to provide and be better every day. Eventually, she hopes to retire her husband.

“I love what I do. I hope to still be designing when I’m 80 – I can’t see myself ever quitting,” Bauman says.

“I truly believe that when a woman sets her mind to something, you can’t stop her. Can we have it all? Well, if you don’t want it all, what’s the point?”

Confidence comes with time and experience. For career-minded women with ambitions to start their own business, Bauman encourages you to find what your passion is, go after it and don’t stop.

“Sometimes we need to stop and ask ourselves ‘what would a man do?’ because women tend to care so much about the needs of others. We’re often putting ourselves and our wants and dreams last,” Bauman says. “Care less about what people think. Set boundaries and give yourself the space and grace to make mistakes. The world is slowly changing to make room for women in leadership, but no one is going to hand it to us. After all, behind every successful woman, is herself.”

Grey Pearl Interior Design www.greypearldesign.ca 204-509-4020

“Power’s not given to you. You have to take it.”

- Beyonce Knowles

AMBER BAUMAN

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LOCAL CULTURE Business Profile | Brianne Roblin, Once Upon A Child & Plato’s Closet

Smart and trendy meets sustainable When things get tough, Brianne Roblin keeps going

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

Every Plato’s Closet and Once Upon A Child location is individually owned and operated by local business owners. Brianne Roblin opened her own Once Upon A Child in September 2020 and Plato’s Closet in January of 2022 and hasn’t looked back.

“I am so grateful to be a business owner in the Westman community,” says Brianne Roblin, Owner. “At Once Upon A Child and Plato’s Closet, we really strive to create the best experience for our customers. We know shoppers are smart and trendy and want to find value without compromising style.”

Along with managing two businesses, Roblin is a wife and mother to 9-year-old Brynley.

“One of the reasons I started my own business was because I wanted to be a role model for my daughter,” says Roblin. “I wanted her to see how important it is to reach for her dreams and aspirations and not be afraid of hard work or pursuing something she could be proud of.”

Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it also takes a village to run a business. Roblin’s family has supported her at home and at work every step of the way.

“When I first had Brynley, I really struggled to find fulfillment being at home taking care of the house and new baby. I felt shame and guilt for wanting to go back to work,” says Roblin. “My husband and family were very supportive when I re-entered the workforce. My husband and I are a team when it comes to balancing who does what at home and at work.”

Roblin’s husband Jason is familiar with the Westman business community. When Roblin opened her stores, he made sure that people knew who was in charge.

“When I first opened, people would often go to Jason if they had questions or concerns about the business.

He was very quick to say, ‘Oh no, this is Brianne’s thing – you need to talk to her.’ After 15 years of being together, he knows how strong-willed I am and how much having my own business means to me. He knew I wanted the whole responsibility of being a business owner.”

“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”

- Jennifer Lee When it comes to the next generation of female entrepreneurs, Roblin encourages you to push through and live authentically.

“As a woman in business, everyone is going to have an opinion about what you should be doing and how you should be doing it. You will never make everyone happy and that’s okay! Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people you aspire to be like.”

Plato’s Closet and Once Upon A Child offer a shopping experience that’s cool, fun and full of exciting and affordable finds. If you have dreams of trendy brand names in perfectly good condition are on the rack and up to 70% off. You can stop daydreaming and go visit Roblin and her team.

BRIANNE ROBLIN

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Brianne Roblin Once Upon A Child & Plato’s Closet platosclosetbrandon@gmail.com onceuponachildbrandon@gmail.com

Business Profile | Manitoba Entrepreneurial Hubs

Connecting women entrepreneurs in rural Manitoba PHOTOS BY K. HLADY PHOTOGRAPHY

One of the key aspects to running a successful business is surrounding yourself with people that can guide and support you on your entrepreneurial journey.

As a woman entrepreneur, where do you turn to for ongoing support? How do you keep track of training or funding programs? Where can you connect with other women who may be facing similar opportunities or challenges?

START YOUR SEARCH WITH THE HUBS. The Manitoba Entrepreneurial Hubs (aka The Hubs) is a network of entrepreneurship centres & coworking spaces that serve women entrepreneurs at all stages of business.

Over the past two years, The Hubs have connected hundreds of women across Manitoba through virtual programs, events and coworking. These personal connections have led to collaborations, mentorship and business growth during times when it was needed the most.

Based out of the main coworking space in Dauphin, the Hub’s staff team is available to assist women business

owners from all over Manitoba. Currently, all events, programs, business advisory and coaching services are offered virtual but in-person events are being planned for the Westman region this spring.

Dive into Digital is their most popular online group coaching program, aimed at helping women to improve their online marketing presence. Applications for the spring cohort are now open with sessions starting in April.

Regardless of where you live, you have access to a wide network of women and support organizations who can help make your entrepreneurial journey easier. Reach out and ask for help. Be open to new connections and collaborations. And most importantly, celebrate your progress and success!

Manitoba Entrepreneurial Hubs (aka The Hubs) Dauphin, Manitoba 204-701-0440 www.thehubs.ca @thehubsmb

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Business Profile | Andrea Epp, Epp Law Office

Empowered women empower women As a successful lawyer, Andrea Epp knows just how important it is to support other female professionals

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

Andrea Epp has been practicing law in Brandon for over 12 years. She started her own firm and opened Epp Law Office in November of 2020 with the goal to do business a little differently.

“Purchasing a home or starting a business can be stressful – and people are often a little nervous to be working with a lawyer,” says Andrea Epp, Epp Law Office. “We’ve made the effort to make our offices feel like a welcoming environment and really take the time to make sure clients are comfortable and understand every step of the process.”

The Epp Law Office mainly focuses on legal matters concerning commercial and residential real estate, corporate law, estate planning and administration. The office is warm and inviting, with Epp taking care of details to help her clients feel welcome and at ease.

“We really about creating professional, long-term relationships. We want our clients to know they can turn to our team time and again for trusted advice,” says Epp. “We are committed to the highest standard of the practice of law and serving clients.”

Epp’s office is busy. Her caring and warm approach to law in such a demanding industry is likely why her services have been so in demand. Her office has been open for just over a year and in that short time, she’s brought on another lawyer and moved to a larger space to support the needs of her team and clients.

“It’s nice to see significant strides in this community with the acceptance of female professionals. When I started my professional career in banking in my 20’s and then moved on to work in law in my early 30’s, it

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was difficult to be taken seriously,” says Epp. “I had to constantly prove my worth in order to gain respect.

Over the past few years, the shift in how people treat professional women has been incredible. I’ve heard a good number of people say they would actually rather work with a female professional, whether it is their accountant, realtor, lawyer or doctor.”

Supporting other women and advocating for gender equality is something Epp does in both life and work.

“I think female entrepreneurs tend to take a more nurturing and holistic approach to their family, community and their business. Empowering women in business or leadership roles tends to result in improvements to quality of life, work-life balance and inclusion for everyone.”

It takes a village to help the female entrepreneur thrive. Epp notes every female professional can only grow if we’re willing to build each other up.

“On International Women’s Day, I hope we can go the extra mile to be kind to one another and support women in business. Whether it’s a compliment or encouraging word – we need to stand together and continue to push for change in gender equality to better our communities.”

Epp Law Office 642 18th Street, Unit A 204-717-3775 reception@epplawoffice.ca www.epplawoffice.ca

“Courage, sacrifice, determination, commitment, toughness, heart, talent, guts. That’s what little girls are made of; to heck with sugar and spice.”

- Bethany Hamilton

ANDREA EPP

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Strong. Fierce. Talented. YOU! Discovering your natural talents is the first step to your best self

BY WENDY HOFFORD, WH STRATEGIC DRIVE

Are you living to your full potential? Are you lost and confused about who you are and what your purpose is?

To understand who you want to be or what potential you have, you must first understand who you are and how you are wired and what comes to you, naturally.

CliftonStrengths is an online assessment tool that identifies the talents and strengths within. Once you understand your unique and powerful talents, you can 44

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begin the journey of learning more about who you are and cultivating your best self.

Results from the ClifftonStrengths assessment tool are measured against 34 different talents. These talents help you understand why you see the world the way you do and what sets you apart from others. When we understand where we shine, we can leverage our natural abilities to grow and reach our goals.

where we thrive, our confidence skyrockets. When we are confident in who we are and know our value, we are empowered. When we are empowered, we can believe that our success is deserved and legitimately achieved.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR TALENTS AND STRENGTHS CAN HELP YOU FLOURISH IN YOUR CAREER. We all have talents and strengths that can help us reach our potential in both our personal and professional lives.

It isn’t about what specific talent you need, but rather, what specific talent you have that you can leverage to reach your potential in your life and career. Learning how to build on what comes natural to you is much easier than trying to become someone you aren’t.

So where do you start? The first step is: do the CliftonStrengths assessment. When you get your results, you can study the areas where you shine and gain a better understanding of the talents you can nature to become your best self. A strength can also be a weakness – so we need to learn how to use our talents in a positive way.

LEARNING ABOUT YOUR NATURAL TALENTS CAN BOOST YOUR CONFIDENCE AND SQUASH IMPOSTER SYNDROME. Research shows that 79% of women struggle with their confidence and self-esteem, while 75% of us experience imposter syndrome. What that means is most women struggle to see themselves as capable, talented and worthy of their accomplishments.

With the CliftonStrengths assessment, you will learn about the talents you are naturally gifted with and what makes you unique. Women I have worked with have discovered their natural talents and strengths are exactly what they need to guide them to be the best version of themselves.

When we focus on maximizing what we’re good at and

Once you begin to understand how you’re wired and what you’re good at, the work begins. It takes the investment of intention, focus and practice to turn a talent into a strength and become the person you are meant to be.

WH Strategic Drive 204-981-3967 wendy@wendyhofford.com www.wendyhofford.com

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Business Profile | Nicole Rice, Finance Broker

Have courage to chase your dreams and be confident in your skills Nicole Rice is your local choice for equipment financing

BY LISA CRESS PHOTOS BY STUDIO 78

To get the job done, one needs the right tools. If the tools you need come in the form of combines, tractors, specialized trailers and long-haul trucks, you may want to speak to Nicole Rice, Westman’s local equipment leasing broker.

“I started my business to help small and medium sized companies buy and sell new and used equipment with lease financing,” explains Rice.

“I provide local financing services for agriculture, construction, transportation, medical, office and technology. My goal is to help people grow their business by connecting them with alternative lending options.”

There are many benefits to leasing equipment. For new businesses, equipment leasing provides you with the accessibility not typically offered through traditional lenders. For the established business, the speed of approvals and flexibility of term structures allow you to quickly acquire equipment and start generating income as soon as possible.

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What you do makes a difference - and you get to decide what kind of difference you want to make.

- Jane Goodall “It can be difficult for business owners to get the financing they need, especially when they’re just starting out,” Rice says. “Broker services allow for tailored financing solutions, matching your specific needs with the best lender for your growth. As an independent equipment leasing specialist, I help our local business community by offering competitive finance options, quality customer service and honest advice.”

Learn more about equipment leasing options by contacting your local broker, Nicole Rice, at nicole@groupesfa.com.

Rice is proud to offer a local service the Westman area can rely on.

“Our community is full of hard-working, progressive entrepreneurs,” Rice says. “The best part about my job is meeting new people and learning about their business and what I can do to help them grow.”

Equipment purchases and upgrades are an investment in your business. As your local broker, Rice is an advocate for investing in yourself and believing in your abilities.

“When I knew I wanted to start my own business, my biggest challenge was having the confidence to go out on my own,” Rice says. “But I knew that Westman needed a service I could provide that didn’t yet exist locally.”

Along with owning her own business, Rice is also a wife and a mother to four girls. She wants to show her daughters that when it comes to their futures and what they are capable of, the sky is the limit.

“Women need to support each other. When they do, incredible things happen,” Rice says. “Gender does not dictate your career options. Everyone should have equal opportunity to do what they love and chase their dreams. I make it a priority to instill confidence and independence in my girls because I want them and young women everywhere to believe in themselves and find their own voice. That voice doesn’t have to be loud, but it does need to be direct and confident.”

Nicole Rice, Finance Broker Affiliated Financial Services 204-721-2501 nicole@groupesfa.com www.nicolericeleasing.com

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WOMEN IN WEALTH IN CANADA

BY MICHAEL VAN LIEROP, PRESIDENT NEW OUTLOOK WEALTH MANAGEMENT

f you include retail or branch level banking in Canada, women make up just shy of one-quarter (23%) of financial advisors in Canada. If we exclude these typically salaried positions, the percentage drops precipitously. In other words, the major wealth managers whose compensation models are commissioned or meritbased seem least likely to attract – and especially retain – women advisors. As a consequence, an increasingly large segment of clients with wealth in Canada – female clients with money – are not getting advice from advisors who resemble them.

The wealth management industry needs to expand its engagement of women – in terms of client service and especially advice. The financial planning field has more women than ever, but this remains a “man’s world” which puts women advisors, and by extension their clients, at a huge disadvantage. That said, the business case is enormous for greater gender equity: women increasingly make critical financial decisions in households, and in ways that were not even possible a few decades ago. Accessibility to information and technology have provided power to those who want it – information is power and women have equal access to this. Increasingly, mortality rates continue to show a major gap between men and women in Canada, with women living often several years after their partners have died.

In many cases, they find themselves solely responsible for their financial well-being and that of their estate (children, grandchildren) without the financial literacy or support they need at a vulnerable time.

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Indeed, massive amounts of wealth (hundreds of billions of dollars) will transition in Canada in the next decade that will be largely managed by widowed (or divorced) women in their 60s, 70s and 80s. Over 70% of estates are inherited by women. Who will be best able to provide the support, empathy, and understanding they need to make the best decisions possible? Research has demonstrated that female investors are 2.5x more likely to take investment risk if they are being coached and advised by a female advisor.

Arguably, despite awareness, not enough is being done to support women. In an industry which likes to present itself as purely meritocratic, sales organizations (of which every large wealth management firm is, whether they acknowledge this or not) are loathe to do anything that may favour someone over another. In theory this is all fine and dandy, but in practice it’s another story. While other

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businesses have gone to great lengths to encourage and support (ie: with dollars) those who may be disadvantaged for racial, ethnic, cultural or gender reasons, the business of wealth management in Canada seems unable – or unwilling – to do more than pay lip service to the issue. And while the “old boy’s club” mentality of the industry has largely dissipated in the last decade, the make-up of the industry is so heavily skewed towards older men (the average age of advisors in Canada is nearing 60) it’s difficult to imagine this male dominance is a legacy of an industry desperate for modernization. Even the metrics for success in the industry remain male-centric.

It’s not as though the industry isn’t acutely aware of the challenges – the fact is, there are many extremely successful women advisors in Canada, but they are a tiny minority of the total number of advice professionals in the industry.

Virtue signalling corporate behemoths Lots of big companies in the wealth management space in Canada make grandiose pronouncements on social media and in their marketing of how progressive and inclusive they are. The “token” successful women – who often fit a very narrow definition of beauty and success – are aggressively showcased. They exude success and prosperity. Meanwhile, the reality – an aging, predominantly male workforce – continues to run the show. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t powerful women on boards and inside the C suite as senior executives, it just means there remains a certain degree of showmanship relating to women’s inclusion that just fails to match up with the day-to-day reality.

The bottom line is this: the financial industry in Canada needs to address this issue with urgency – and the

business case for doing so is compelling. The decisionmakers increasingly are women. High net worth clients – the ideal target for most wealth firms – are increasingly women. If the industry is truly working in the best interests of clients, having a comparable and suitable advice capacity (in terms of women advisors) will help ensure that women with wealth – and those without it – can still get proper financial planning advice.

Statistics Source: “Why there are so few female financial advisors: and what needs to happen to grow the numbers” by Judy Paradi, Paulette Filion (https:// www.strategymarketing.ca/wp-content/uploads/Femalefinancial-advisors-why-so-few-2020.pdf)

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