March 20th, 2018.

Twenty-seven years + seventeen days living my best life.

Ten (-ish) years of experience working at both independent, family-run shops and a large clothing & accessories retailer.

Two and a half years working in the media & communications industry with some of Canada's most influential brands and talent. 

Five days working towards my dream of owning a boutique store filled with all of my favourite things.

And here we are - launching a website for a business that isn't even open yet.

For someone who finds comfort and security in structure and routine, it may seem strange that I've left two full-time jobs without a plan or even a next step. But every decision I've made has led me to where I am today, and it's exactly where I want to be.

Blessed with the most encouraging support system and the belief that I can do anything I set my mind to, I am able to take risks and pursue my dreams. I have a strong desire to make this happen, but it takes more than just passion. It's going to take a lot of hard work, dedication and trial and error (hopefully more trial without the error). 

I'm confident that the tangible skills and experience I've gained over the years, as well as the incredible personal and professional relationships I've built, will help turn my dream of owning a store into a reality. But this is all very new to me, and I look forward to learning with you and from you as I embark on this next chapter in my life. 

Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur, a future customer or a friend (old or new), I hope you'll share your stories and experiences with me. I hope you'll offer advice and constructive feedback. I hope you'll join me on this journey.

I've registered the business, built this website, set up social media profiles, and I've got a plan. Now, I'm on a mission to find the perfect location and the right vendors to bring my vision to reality. My ultimate goal is to host a grand opening on September 15th, which would be exactly six months after I enjoyed dinner with a friend who inspired me to go forward with a dream that seemed so out of reach.

As I power through my to-do list (aka the steps outlined on a million different websites I've Googled), I would love to have you be a part of this process. I'd love to bounce ideas off you and get your input, because this boutique is as much yours as it is mine. So, please feel free to follow along on Instagram + Facebook and connect with me via email. My hope is that Inspired Living Boutique inspires you as much as it inspires me.

Forever grateful.