Meet Melissa! Melissa is originally from the Lower Mainland and has been living here in Kelowna for ten years. She enjoys hiking the many beautiful trails in the local area and spending some quality time with her children.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Originally from the Lower Mainland, have lived in various places across Canada, but lived in Kelowna for 10 years.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My favourite people to spend time with are my kids, (who are now adults!) because they are fun, compassionate, and kind individuals.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I like Man + Woman Home. Great quality products and knowledgable staff who seem to love where they work.
Describe yourself in one word.
Adventurous
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Cape Town, South Africa to hike, eat, and enjoy the beaches!
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Hiking (my favourite area is Glen Canyon Regional Park)
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I usually just laugh off embarrassing moments, so I’m not really embarrassed, just more amused with some situations.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Most inspiring thing that has happened to me… witnessing true kindness in people.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Swimming in a clean ocean, and playing on the beach in White Rock.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have volunteered for years at the BCSPCA, Crisis Line, and the Look Good Feel Better program, all in Kelowna.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
That cruelty to animals throughout the world would end.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm... or Glen Canyon for a hike.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
There is still a drug crisis in Kelowna. That needs to change.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The vineyards, the lakes, the hiking.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
(1) Travel to Austria to see where my Dad was from
(2) Go on an amazing vacation with my kids
(3) Learn Sign Language
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’ve always had long, blonde hair and a few months ago I shaved it all off!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Website: www.loveinwear.com Instagram: @loveinwear Website: www.melissacraven.ca Instagram: @melissacraven.makeup Personal Instagram: @the.happy.minimalist
What is the name of your business/organization?
Melissa Craven ~ Makeup Artist (mobile, freelance Hair & Makeup Artist) & LOVE-IN WEAR (Retro-style clothing + Love-in Brand clothing)
Why did you get into/start this business?
I’ve always had an interest in makeup & fashion ever since watching my Mom put on her makeup in the early ’70s and dressing up in that fun, fashionable hippie style! I got into the Makeup Artistry in 1999, and then this year I launched an online shop, Love-in Wear, with my own Love-in brand clothing & accessories, along with a collection of retro-inspired pieces.
What is the goal of your business?
To do what I love while giving clients the look(s) they desire.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I wouldn’t say I’ve had any work “struggles”. Life struggle: maintaining the energy (both mentally and physically) to keep being good ‘ol independent, adventurous me.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would do things the same. I’ve learned a lot and enjoyed a lot.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"It’s the little things in life that matter."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"Try not to stress. Nothing is forever. Things change. Appreciate the little things."
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Me. I would like to see myself from another perspective.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It’s important to support the community you live in, and to support small businesses.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
It’s a combination of doing charitable work, while furthering my education, and being independent, all while raising three kids on my own.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
KAI (Instagram: @imtherealkai ), a young Artist who writes, creates and produces music in Kelowna. Check out MistMinds Vol.1 EP on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2kddh4EaunZdeddJAjrD2p?si=rgnyAwP-QI6BdKUJNBCMuw Support Art! All types of art.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Artist KAI (Kyle Vallely)
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Change is good. Don't be afraid of change. Change your surroundings (people, places, or things). Change your thoughts. Grow. Learn. Explore.
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