Blair McFarlane has been around the Edmonton social scene for (a few years) longer than most, and if there is one business owner in this city that respects the soul of our growing community, it’s him. As co-owner of The Bower, Red Star, and Lock Stock Coffee, Blair has positioned himself as one of the key proponents behind downtown Edmonton’s revitalization, and the collective goal of ridding ourselves of the “Deadmonton” misnomer. When he’s not busy running downtown’s favourite hangouts, Blair spends his time as a DJ, traveller, and all around foodie. His ongoing support for everyone within the community helps bring integrity and soul to our ever-expanding city. Thank you, Blair, for taking the time to give us your take on life in Edmonton!

Continue Reading

A few years ago —when streaming news online was still a somewhat novel idea— reporter Tom Gazzola was offered a position with the Edmonton Oilers as a digital media anchor for the team. This season marks his 6th anniversary in that role —a career accomplishment that many were skeptical about when he decided to trade his traditional media gig for a digital opportunity. We met up with Tom just before the NHL season kick off, and got his take on sports, broadcasting, and the best culinary experience he’s had on the road with our favourite team, the Edmonton Oilers.

Continue Reading

At 32 years old, Sylvia Soo has repeatedly demonstrated that she is an inspirational force to be reckoned with. A two time cancer survivor, business owner, author, and educator, she is proof of how far you can go when your strength comes from within. Since starting her journey, she has published a book (The Cancer Fabulous Diaries), been featured in two documentaries and a short film, and Sylvia Soo Leather —her line of handcrafted one-of-a-kind leather journals and accessories— has grown from therapeutic hobby into a full time career.

Continue Reading

Kevin Cam may not have been born in Edmonton, but he – and his restaurant North 53 – are definitely examples of what epitomizes Edmonton’s spirit. Continue Reading

Since returning to Edmonton in 2006, Kendall Barber has channeled her tenacious energy and dedication to hard work into the many projects she has taken on over the years. From her blog about discovering Edmonton, to starting an industry-changing shoe company with her sister, to putting her passion for marathon running to work in the community —it’s safe to say that Kendall has used her Edmontonian inspiration to inspire others. We were extremely fortunate that Kendall took some time from her non-stop schedule to tell us a little more about the many projects she currently has on the go, and how she manages to find balance between work and personal life.  

Continue Reading

23 year old Alyssa Lau is a born-and-raised Edmontonian who is making waves in the global fashion industry with New Classics — an online store that promotes style with a conscience. After graduating from the University of Alberta’s Bachelor of Sciences program, Alyssa decided to hold off on pursuing a biochemistry graduate degree, and make fashion her full-time gig. Her blog, Ordinary People, has a HUGE following -in the area of 52.5k followers (just on Instagram)- and serves as the perfect resource for fashion-savvy followers around the world. We were fortunate to be able to catch Alyssa between her roles as New Classics founder and style blogger, to chat about her life, inspiration, and get her take on the transition from fast-fashion to socially responsible style.

Continue Reading