Today, I want to share some stories that’ll make you feel proud, inspired, and maybe a little bit in awe of what’s possible. We’re diving into some of the most inspiring stories from west coast business owners. These aren’t just tales of success—they’re about grit, creativity, and the kind of determination that makes the west coast such a special place for entrepreneurs.
Let’s kick things off in Vancouver. You might’ve heard of Peace by Chocolate, right? They’ve gotten some national attention, but the story behind the company is what really sticks with you. The founder, Tareq Hadhad, and his family came to Canada as refugees from Syria. Back home, they had a thriving chocolate business, but they lost everything in the war. When they arrived in Canada, they started again from scratch—literally making chocolate out of their kitchen. Fast-forward a few years, and they’re not just rebuilding their lives; they’re employing locals, giving back to the community, and sharing a message of peace through their products. It’s incredible to see how they turned their hardship into something so meaningful.
Moving down the coast, let me tell you about a small-town success story from Port Alberni. There’s a brewery there called Twin City Brewing, and it’s become this unexpected hotspot for craft beer lovers. What’s inspiring isn’t just the beer—though, trust me, it’s good—it’s how they’ve revitalized the community. When they opened, Port Alberni was struggling a bit, like a lot of smaller towns that depend on resource industries. But this brewery became a gathering place. They host events, partner with local food producers, and they’ve brought this sense of pride back to the town. It’s proof that even a small business can have a huge impact.
Let’s shift gears for a second. How about a story that’s a bit more unconventional? There’s a woman named Sophia who runs a kayak tour company out of Tofino. She started it on a whim after deciding she wanted to live closer to the water. She had no formal business experience, no marketing budget, nothing. But what she did have was a deep love for the ocean and a knack for connecting with people. Over the years, her tours have become legendary—not because they’re the most polished, but because they’re so personal. People come back year after year, not just for the kayaking but to hear her stories and share in her passion. And here’s the kicker: she’s now using her business to fund ocean conservation projects. It’s this beautiful cycle where her work inspires others, and they, in turn, help her protect what she loves.
Now, I can’t talk about inspiring west coast businesses without mentioning Indigenous entrepreneurs. There’s this incredible wave of Indigenous-owned businesses redefining what entrepreneurship looks like. One that stands out is Cheekbone Beauty, founded by Jenn Harper. She’s based in Ontario now, but her brand is deeply connected to her roots and the west coast’s spirit of innovation. Jenn has built her company around sustainability and representation. Her products are eco-friendly, and a portion of the profits go toward supporting Indigenous youth. What really sticks with me is her transparency—she shares her wins and her struggles, and that honesty has built this incredible community around her brand.
Closer to home, I want to mention Skwachàys Lodge in Vancouver. It’s an Indigenous-owned boutique hotel and gallery that’s not just a place to stay but a cultural experience. What’s inspiring here is how they’re creating opportunities for Indigenous artists. Each room is designed by a local artist, and a portion of the profits goes back into programs supporting the community. It’s not just a business; it’s a platform for preserving and sharing culture, which is so important.
Let’s circle back to the idea of resilience. I heard about this bakery in Victoria—La Roux Patisserie—that almost didn’t make it through the pandemic. Like a lot of small businesses, they were hit hard by closures and restrictions. But instead of shutting down, they leaned into what made them unique. They started offering baking classes online, they created these beautifully curated gift boxes, and they built a loyal following through social media. Now, they’re busier than ever, and they’ve come out of the pandemic stronger. It’s such a testament to adapting when things get tough.
One more story before we wrap up—this one’s from a little further south, in Bellingham. There’s a bookstore there called Village Books, and it’s been a fixture in the community for decades. The owners, Chuck and Dee Robinson, built it with the idea that a bookstore could be more than just a place to buy books. They host author readings, book clubs, and even fundraisers for local causes. When they retired, they didn’t sell the store to the highest bidder—they passed it on to their employees. It’s now employee-owned, and the legacy they created is being carried on by people who care just as much as they did. It’s such a powerful example of putting community first.
Alright, so what’s the takeaway from all this? I think it’s that the best businesses don’t just chase profits—they build something that lasts, something that matters. Whether it’s creating jobs, giving back, or inspiring others, these stories show how much impact one person—or one team—can have. So, if you’re out there building something, keep at it. You never know whose life you might change along the way.