Category: Small Businesses

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.

let’s talk about getting in shape in Victoria. I mean, Victoria’s already such an active city, right? You’ve got the ocean, the mountains, and a million parks. It’s the kind of place that just screams, “Hey, go outside and do something!” But, like, let’s be real—actually starting or sticking to a fitness routine? That’s a whole other thing. And sometimes, you just need a little help. That’s where someone like Lindsey Welgush comes in.

If you haven’t heard of Lindsey, she’s a personal trainer based in Victoria, and she is seriously amazing at what she does. Her whole thing isn’t just about making you lift weights or run a million miles. It’s about helping you feel strong and confident in your own body, no matter where you’re starting from.

Now, one of the things I love about Lindsey’s approach is how she really tailors everything to the individual. It’s not this one-size-fits-all, “Here’s a meal plan, here’s a workout, see ya later” kind of vibe. It’s personalized. Whether you’re just starting out, trying to come back from an injury, or looking to level up your fitness game, she meets you where you’re at. That’s huge because, let’s be honest, everyone’s journey looks different, right?

And Victoria is honestly the perfect backdrop for getting into shape. You’ve got the Galloping Goose Trail if you’re into running or biking. Beacon Hill Park is a classic spot for outdoor workouts or just a walk to clear your head. And, of course, you can’t forget about the waterfront. That stretch along Dallas Road? Ugh, it’s so good. You’ve got the fresh air, the views—it almost makes working out feel less like work. Almost.

But here’s the thing: even with all those options, it can be hard to know where to start. Or maybe you’ve started, but then life gets in the way, and suddenly you’ve fallen off track. That’s why someone like Lindsey can make such a difference. She’s not just there to tell you what to do; she’s there to support you through the ups and downs, help you stay consistent, and keep you accountable.

Another thing that stands out about Lindsey is that she focuses a lot on mindset. Fitness isn’t just physical—it’s mental. It’s about building habits, staying motivated, and dealing with that little voice in your head that says, “Ugh, skip it today.” We all have that voice, don’t we? Lindsey helps you push past that in a way that feels doable, not overwhelming.

Oh, and she’s not just about the gym, either. She’s really into functional fitness, which is basically training your body for the activities you actually do in real life. Like, if you’re a parent, she’ll help you build the strength to keep up with your kids. If you’re into hiking, she can help you get those legs and lungs ready to tackle something like Mount Finlayson without dying halfway up.

And let’s talk about her coaching style for a second because it’s so refreshing. You know how some trainers can be… intense? Like, drill sergeant mode? Yeah, that’s not Lindsey. She’s supportive, approachable, and genuinely wants to see you succeed. From everything I’ve heard, people walk away from her sessions feeling empowered, not intimidated.

Oh, and if you’re worried about not having time, she’s got you covered there, too. Lindsey offers flexible options that fit into your schedule, whether you prefer in-person sessions or online coaching. So, no excuses, right?

One more thing I really appreciate is how Lindsey keeps things realistic. She’s not going to tell you to give up all your favorite foods or spend two hours a day at the gym. It’s about balance. Like, yes, take care of your health, but also enjoy your life. That’s the kind of energy we all need more of.

So, if you’re in Victoria and you’re thinking, “You know what, it’s time to take my health seriously,” definitely check out Lindsey Welgush. Even if you’re just curious, it’s worth taking a look. She’s got a great vibe, and it might be exactly the push you need to get started.

And really, there’s no better time than now. Whether you’re walking along the seawall, hiking up a local trail, or hitting the gym, Victoria is full of ways to stay active. With someone like Lindsey in your corner, you’ve got all the tools you need to make it happen.

today, I want to talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves—small businesses. They’re the heart of every community, but they’re also the backbone of innovation. And I’ve got seven incredible small businesses from the West Coast, with a bit of a focus on Canada, that are absolutely punching above their weight. These businesses are making a real impact, whether it’s in their industry, their community, or even globally. Let’s dive in.

First up, there’s this bakery in Victoria, BC, called Salt + Honey. Now, I know—bakeries might not seem like the most groundbreaking thing. But Salt + Honey has this way of turning local ingredients into something that feels both nostalgic and completely new. They’ve got this cinnamon bun—brioche dough, local honey glaze, a touch of sea salt—it’s unreal. But what really sets them apart is how they’ve become a hub for the community. They partner with local farmers for their ingredients, they hire folks from employment programs for people facing barriers, and they’ve even started a “pay-it-forward” system. You can literally buy someone else’s breakfast, no strings attached. It’s small things like that, right? But they add up.

Okay, moving up the coast to Vancouver, there’s Revive Refillery. This is one of those zero-waste shops, but they’re doing it differently. They’ve created this whole network of partnerships with local brands to offer bulk products that are actually high quality. You go in, bring your jars, and refill anything from shampoo to olive oil. But here’s the kicker—they also do mobile refills. They’ll drive out to your house, weigh your containers, and fill them right there. No waste, no hassle. I mean, it’s such a West Coast idea, but it’s so practical that you wonder why it’s not everywhere yet.

Now, let’s talk about a little company out of Seattle—Tiny Home Solutions. Yes, the tiny house movement has been around for a while, but these folks are bringing it to the masses. They specialize in backyard units that work as rentals, guest houses, or even home offices. What’s cool is how they work with homeowners to navigate zoning laws, permits, and even financing. They’re turning what feels like a headache into a turnkey process. And in places where housing is tight—and expensive—this kind of creativity makes a huge difference.

Heading inland a bit to Kelowna, BC, we’ve got Okanagan Craft Spirits. Now, craft distilleries aren’t new, but what makes these guys stand out is their commitment to sustainability. They source almost everything from within a hundred kilometers of their distillery, and they’ve found ways to reuse their waste. Leftover grains? They go to local farmers for feed. Water from the distillation process? Recycled into their cooling systems. It’s clever, right? And their gin? Oh man, it tastes like a walk through an alpine forest. If you’re in the area, their tasting room is an experience in itself.

Alright, number five. This one’s a little different. It’s a tech company out of Portland called GreenMetrics. They’ve developed software that helps businesses measure—and reduce—their carbon footprint. It’s all about making sustainability accessible for companies that maybe don’t have a dedicated team for this kind of thing. They’ve got clients ranging from small cafes to regional airlines. And what’s brilliant is that they don’t just measure; they provide actionable recommendations. It’s like having a sustainability coach in your back pocket.

Next up, we’re back in Vancouver with Thread & Timber. This is a clothing brand, but they’re all about slow fashion. They make timeless, durable pieces using ethical production practices. What I love about them is their transparency. They’ll tell you exactly where the fabric comes from, who made it, and why it costs what it costs. They’ve got this jacket called the “Coastal Anorak” that’s water-resistant, windproof, and somehow stylish enough to wear in the city. It’s practical, it’s intentional, and it’s the kind of business that makes you rethink how you shop.

And last but definitely not least, there’s Raincoast Harvest, based on Vancouver Island. They’re a foraging company. Yeah, like mushrooms, berries, wild greens—the kind of stuff you’d see in a high-end restaurant. But what they’ve done is build this model where they work with chefs, grocers, and even online stores to make wild food more accessible. They’re super focused on sustainability, making sure they’re not overharvesting or damaging ecosystems. And they’ve started offering workshops to teach people how to forage responsibly. It’s such a niche thing, but they’re turning it into something scalable.

So, there you have it. Seven small businesses, each doing something unique, and all of them making a bigger impact than you’d expect. What I love about stories like these is that they remind you how much innovation and change can start on a local level. It’s not always about being the biggest company or having the flashiest idea. Sometimes, it’s just about doing one thing really well—and caring about the people and the places around you.

If you’re ever in these areas, check them out. Even better, think about how businesses like these inspire change in your own community. What’s the saying? Think global, act local? Yeah, it’s a cliché, but for a reason.