Guest Contributors

Simmie is a manager at Danali, a women’s and men’s clothing store. She began her career with Danali upon completing her undergraduate degree and, after 4 years, returned to school to complete her Business Administration diploma before returning to a managerial role at the store on a full-time basis. She enjoys working with a team that feels like an extended family, and takes pride in the longstanding relationships she’s developed with her clientele over the years. When she’s not at the store, Simmie enjoys spending time with her family, (and her new puppy, Molly!) or recharging with friends with a day at the spa followed by a great dinner out.

Kristie Pearson is a passionate and steadfast champion for The MATCH International Women's Fund. She balances voluntarism and community advocacy with her role as "mom" to kids Aleta (11), Max (9), and Parker (7), and wife to her husband of 13 years, Doug Pollard. She's a former marathon runner and Swamp Donkey Adventure racer, who has taken up cycling. She is a leader for community causes (including the Riverview Hospital Foundation, United Way Winnipeg and the Children's Hospital Foundation of Manitoba), often drawing from her MBA specializing in Marketing and Sponsorship. Kristie especially enjoys weekends at the family cottage during spring and summer seasons in Manitoba, and celebrates special moments with girlfriends over a good glass of wine (or two) and great conversation, venturing past talks of “just our kids,” renovations and travel - to the other things that matter in life.

Andrea Lenczner and Christie Smythe are Co-designers of Canadian womenswear label SMYTHE. Since launching in 2004, SMYTHE has expanded from classic blazers to a full, versatile, and timeless ready-to-wear line, and in 2011 the brand received the Design Exchange Award for Fashion. For the past 4 years, SMYTHE has collaborated with knitwear brand AUGDEN to feature designs made by local women in La Paz, Bolivia. On weekends, Andrea and Christie can be found skiing with their families (Whistler is a favourite!), or enjoying good food and wine with girlfriends at the cottage. 

Jess Tomlin is President and CEO of The MATCH International Women's Fund, which supports grassroots, game-changing innovators around the world. Jess loves a steady dose of light-hearted reading to balance the intensity of her days, and also enjoys spending time with her daughter and son individually, carving out special moments in an otherwise hectic schedule. She's an avid runner and enjoys long outdoor runs wherever she is in the world. A believer in “work-life integration,” Jess can be found catching up on work calls on the trail - where she does her best thinking! She recently climbed Mont Blanc with her husband for their tenth anniversary.

Claire Turnbull is a Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctor of Acupuncture, Certified NAET Practitioner and Cosmetic Acupuncturist. Her passion for alternative medicine began at a young age when she first received acupuncture to treat some of her own health conditions. Since her first treatment, she has had a profound respect for the medicine and its holistic philosophy towards the mind, body and spirit. In addition to completing a three-year acupuncture diploma program in Victoria, British Columbia, Claire has continued her education in courses across the globe to specialize her knowledge towards women’s health, cosmetic acupuncture, and allergy elimination. Nothing brings Claire more joy than seeing her clients with restored health and wellness and to help them flourish through life’s ups, downs and (hormonal) transitions.

Lennard Taylor is a Winnipeg born fashion designer, artist, and the creative force behind the cutting-edge boutique fashion house that bears his name. Early in his career, he apprenticed with industry professionals such as Bob and Michael Silver of Silver Jeans and later moved on to a position overseeing productions in China with Freed & Freed International. Lennard then opened his flagship boutique in the Historic Exchange District of Winnipeg, where his pieces combine exceptional fit and function with distinctive design, memorable details, and architectural construction for confident, modern, and sophisticated women.

A 15-year veteran of the food and beverage industry with a lifetime (and lifestyle!) surrounded with culinary classics, Carla lives life to its fullest. As the Director of Marketing & Events for De Luca's, she blends a passion for family and business into her life. When she's not developing incredible culinary experiences for others, Carla spends her time dining al fresco in the company of laughter, good friends, and exceptional wine.

Jennie is a mother, friend, wife, and outspoken advocate for essential oils. When she's not teaching others the virtue and benefits essential oils have on your life, she's spending time with her three "fur babies", her husband, and two (now grown) daughters. A 20-year plus veteran of essential oils, Jennie has discovered and rediscovered the power of oils and what they can do for the middle-aged body, mind, and soul.

Ana is the Business Manager for Chanel Beaute at Polo Park, and is a spirited, passionate soul when it comes to the creativity, courage, and confidence behind make up artistry. Having completed a university degree in communications, Ana followed her true passion to help other women embrace the boldness and comfort of their chosen look - whether glamourous or natural. When she's not building longstanding relationships with her dedicated clients, this soon-to-be bride is spending time with friends over her favourite meal - breakfast!

Kendall is Co-Founder of Poppy Barley, a Canadian footwear and leather goods company. She's also a (marathon!) runner, baker, wife, brand expert, globetrotter, and visionary. No stranger to the digital world, she created the first go-to lifestyle blog for Edmontonians, before founding Poppy Barley. Kendall's Canadian roots and international studies are what helped hone her eye for fashion, quality handmade goods, and sustainable business practices. This creative leader never leaves home without lipstick and a measuring tape, and frequents The Coveteur and Houzz for inspiration.

Geoff is a registered personal trainer and crossfit coach. With many years of experience and enthusiasm in physical fitness and professional coaching, Geoff has brought hundreds of people toward their best selves with his friendly and encouraging sense of training. He has a degree in kinesiology, a past professional career in elite wrestling, and is also a wrestling coach. He's just the kind of trainer our community (and every middle-aged woman!) needs.

Owner and designer behind Rebecca King Fashion House, Rebecca King is a Canadian fashion influencer who is quickly gaining recognition as the leader in structured, modern, and cozy sweaters made in Canada. A mom, wife, designer, and friend, Rebecca was named a Mercedes Benz Startup Top 20 Emerging Canadian Designer shortly after completing design school in 2005, and has seen distribution grow across Western Canadian boutiques since. No stranger to a good glass of wine with friends, Rebecca prefers Sundays with her family and is proud to call Saskatoon home.