In Focus| Daneka McFetridge of Pomme Salon

In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.

What is your name?
Daneka McFetridge.

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born in Prince George, but moved to Kelowna at age 3!

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
SO many people. But first to come to mind would be my siblings (and their plus ones!), they always seem to make me laugh. They know me best, and I love when we are able to all get together.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would cycle around Iceland! Exploring the terrain there has been on my mind lately!

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Man + Woman! I love their stuff and always get outfit inspiration from their Instagram.

What is your favourite activity?
Doesn’t much matter the activity as long as it’s done with good company. I love trying new things and checking out new places; an art show, group fitness class or house concert, you name it.

If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
So tough, but probably a burger. Nothing beats a homemade burger with all the toppings.

What is a hidden gem you enjoy in the Okanagan?
Cedar Creek Dog beach! One of my favourite spots to take my dog, and it has a wicked view of the lake.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I’m inspired all the time! I think surrounding myself with young entrepreneurial role models is what really keeps me motivated. People who believe in themselves further inspires me to believe in myself.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Definitely one of them would be winning provincials back in my competitive soccer days playing for Kelowna United. Only time I’ve been okay with being drenched in Gatorade.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Donald Tru- just kidding. American politics aside, I would probably say acceptance. Accepting other people’s religions, views, opinions, choices, etc. There’s not enough of that.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
In the summer I love spending time out on the water, boating with family and friends. During the winter I like getting up to Bigwhite for a morning of snowboarding and an afternoon of après ski beverages, because it’s all about balance.

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
There’s a beach access by my childhood house that we call “the Point”. It’s so peaceful, and on a calm day, when the lake is like glass, there’s no spot better to reflect… pun intended.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
A positive change in Kelowna would be continuing to provide opportunity and support for underprivileged single mothers, and women struggling with addiction and homelessness.

If you were granted one wish for work or in life, what would it be?
To always remain balanced. Maintaining a healthy diet, active lifestyle, family and friendships, and continuing to learn and grow in a career I love. Is that more than one wish?

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I can do a pretty spot on bird call.

What is the name of your business/organization?
Pomme Salon!

What does your business do?
We are a L’Oreal Professional Salon who provide quality hair services that suit the needs and desires of each individual client.

How to people connect with you through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Pomme Salon can be found on Facebook , Instagram and Pinterest and I have personal accounts for Pinterest and Instagram!

Where can people find your business online?
pommesalon.ca

Why did you get into/start this business?
I’ve always loved styling hair, in combination with being a creative person, it was an obvious direction to take. Plus, I love people and building relationships with clients to help them look and feel awesome. That’s a pretty neat opportunity.

What is the goal of your business?
I will be graduating with my business diploma this coming April, and I am excited to have both my business background in addition to working as a hairstylist. My goal is to continue to advance my career as a stylist and seek the opportunities that may come from that.

What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Before I decided that I wanted to pursue my passion for the beauty industry and hairstyling, I had just resigned from a Registered Nursing program. After this, I was really discouraged as to what my next career step would be. The uncertainty involved with this trial period for young people can be very testing.

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would do it all the same! Even though my education and career path took a few winding turns; trial and error lead me to the place I am at today, and I couldn’t be happier about it!

Why do you think it is important to shop local?
Shopping local is soo important for our community. Not only does it allow you to get to know the people behind the goods and services, there is some serious talent and hardworking individuals in Kelowna, and that should be always supported.

Give someone that you think deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Becky Heinitz from Oranj Fitness Kelowna, she is one of the kindest, most compassionate and authentic people I’ve met! She challenges me in her fitness boot camps and spin classes. For years I have witnessed her do a wonderful job of balancing work, life and school.

My nomination for the In Focus spotlight is:
Alisha McFetridge, from Karis Support Society!

We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna.