Meet Nathan! Nathan is originally from Grande Prairie and has been living here in the beautiful Okanagan for one year. He has a passion for hospitality and strives to give his customers the ultimate experience.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Originally from Grande Prairie, lived in Toronto for the past 12 years. I moved to Kelowna just over a year ago.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My best friend Mac Hasselfield, because I know I can always count on him to keep me company in good times and in bad.
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
My favourite local store in Kelowna is Cask and Barrel because they have the best selection of rare wines and amazing craft beers.
Describe yourself in one word.
Passionate
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
New York City, because there is always an endless amount of possibilities, New Yorkers love to tell and hear jokes, are friendly to strangers, and you never know who you might meet.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
Getting outdoors for a hike, a stroll along the water, a good chill day at the beach with friends.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I lost my swim shorts in the ocean surf when I was 13.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Seeing my dad battle back from throat cancer. He fought hard and barely complained. Even though it was the hardest time of his life, he did not give up along the way back to regaining his spirit and vitality!
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Spending summers with my family travelling to Peachland and camping out of our Volkswagen Westfalia van.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Before I moved to Toronto, I was a big part of the music community of Grande Prairie, putting on shows, open mic's, and volunteering for the North Country Fair.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Violence toward children
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
On top of Dilworth Mountain.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
I would like to see ride share programs like Uber and Lyft so people are much less likely to drive drunk. It's very difficult to get a cab late at night, and it would also create more jobs and opportunities for the residents of this beautiful city.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
A strong community of people passionate about the environment.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Go on a lengthy road trip changing into a different vehicle every other day with Bill Murray and friends.
Drive a formula 1 race car in Monte Carlo.
Learn to fly an airplane.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I still love to make mixtapes.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Used to be more Facebook, but Instagram is taking over.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Flux 74 Eatery.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I've always worked in hospitality, and I love the work involved in giving guests an amazing experience.
What is the goal of your business?
We want to bring attention to amazing craft beers and brewers, as well as providing an awesome place to enjoy the company of friends, family and new people you haven't met yet!
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Communicating my thoughts clearly and concisely.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I may have taken a bit more time to further my post-secondary education, but otherwise, I wouldn't change a thing!
What do you always find yourself saying?
"This is sooo much fun!!"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
"No matter what happens, tomorrow is a new day!"
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Richard Branson
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Because it supports people who live in your community.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Getting my Sommelier Certificate
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Oliver Glaser of Boundary Brewing. He was one of our first guests, has been incredibly supportive and has brought many new faces into our establishment and continues to spread his love for what we are trying to accomplish!
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Being new to the city and opening a business can be tough to get people to come and support. Publicity is a good way to get the spread the word!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
My passion for this industry will never die, only get stronger. I hope that my enthusiasm to bring people together will help strengthen our community and build relationships that will last a lifetime!
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.
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