In Focus | Ellen Geber

Meet Ellen. Ellen is Okanagan born and raised! She enjoys playing golf at the many incredible courses in the area, relaxing on a patio by the lake, and spending some quality time with her mom.


Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Kelowna, born and raised but left for a few in-between.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My mom, she is the funniest person I know.

What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
Mediterranean Market, the staff and subs!

Describe yourself in one word.
Funny

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Columbia and Ecuador, to visit the rose greenhouses.

What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
As much as I like the patio vibes on the lake, nothing makes me happier than being on one of the amazing golf courses!

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
There are so many things that have turned my cheeks red but I guess the one that hits the hardest is pretty much giving away a birthday surprise to a woman when I worked at a local hotel :( thank goodness she also had a surprise engagement that night!

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Two and a half years ago I had emergency open-heart surgery and almost died. It was really crazy to go through such a life-changing event. It has been really hard to understand all of my emotions that surround the surgery and recovery. But like many others who have gone through what I have, we discover there is more. My more was to listen to myself and be inspired by my surroundings. I found that I was happiest in the garden throughout my recovery and things kind of 'blossomed'.

Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
WILD & WET! hahaha OK, actually our family cabin on OK lake. We were there all summer every year. All the family, cards, and Archie comics a kid could want!!


If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Daylight Savings!

Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Anywhere with a good swing.

Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would love to see some more progress on the new N. Glenmore sports facilities. We are need of something like H20 in this particular area of town. A community gathering spot.

What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The general vibe.

What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Heli-ski
Attend Chelsea Flower Show
Snowboard in Japan

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I cry in almost every movie I ever watch...

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Facebook & Instagram @peakflowers

What is the name of your business/organization?
Peak Flowers

Why did you get into/start this business?
I love flowers and plants.

What is the goal of your business?
To brighten someones day through flowers or plants.

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Recovering from Open Heart Surgery

If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
The same.

What do you always find yourself saying?
"You just have to stay positive."

Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"If you don't have somewhere to be, take your time."

If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
That's easy, my mom.

Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Let the little guys' dreams come true too!

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Starting my business.

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I want to give a shout out to Chris Dedinsky and Russ Burnell-Higgs down at Kettle River Brewing. They are a powerhouse duo running a tight ship!

My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Alicia Meier

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.

In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!