Shop Local - Easy Floors!

Today’s Shop Local feature is a business which first opened in Regina in 2015 and was purchased by Shannon Forrester in November of 2017. It is a very unique business model which I find totally intriguing. The name of the company is Floor Coverings International Regina. What makes them so unique is that they come to your home in a van that is completely filled with flooring samples. No schlepping samples back and forth for you, the customer. They bring everything with them, including their design knowledge. Their mobile showroom holds 3500 skews, so they really do have something for everyone. Because their overhead is low, they are able to offer competitive pricing while still providing premium service and products. You’ll love Shannon. She is a self-described serial entrepreneur, having owned several companies in the past. She is a young wife and mother of 4. She took several years off to stay home with her kids, but now that her youngest is turning 3, she’s totally ready to get back into the game.

For more info, check out reginamobileflooring.com or give Shannon a call at 306-523-5667.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar January 2018.

Shop Local - Jesse at Blacksmith Art Studio

This month, we are featuring Jesse Exner from Blacksmith Art Studio, which has been in business for about 4 years now. Jesse has been a body artist for about 6 years and has been tattooing me since January of last year. I had investigated several studios before I walked in to Blacksmith and I immediately knew this was the place for me. Jesse and his business partner, Chris, run a very laid back operation. They play great music and are always happy to take all the time you need to help them understand what you want and why you want it. They are the epitome of chill and they are both amazing artists! I started off with a very small tattoo on my wrist, added another small tattoo several weeks later and then decided to go big or go home lol. I give Jesse an idea of what I’m after and he never fails to deliver. I love every single one of my tattoos.

If you’re interested in body art, or have questions, I’d encourage you to visit Blacksmith’s website at blacksmithartstudio.com, Instagram @blacksmithartstudio or Facebook @blacksmithartstudio. They are located at 1817 Halifax Street in an old converted house, and their phone number is 306.359.0130. You can message Jesse through Facebook as well. His hours are Monday-Saturday 11-6, and starting in October Tuesday-Saturday 11-7/8.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar September 2017.

Shop Local: Feeling Beautiful in Amazing Brands

Queen V Fashion House recently moved their store to 1846 Hamilton in the heart of downtown and Tammy, the owner, tells me that it was a fantastic move. Regina has embraced the new location and I’m not surprised. I’ve loved Queen V for years and their new location just makes me love it more. Tammy bought the women’s clothing store in March of 2016 and, I think, improved on what was already a great shop.

You’ll find everything from jeans to gowns there. They carry such amazing brands as For Love & Lemons, Lipsy London, Black Tape by Dex, Black Swan and French Connection UK to name just a few. But Queen V is more than a clothing store. You’ll also find beautiful jewelry as well as funky Sunglasses by Quay. And, let’s not forget the Juliette has a Gun line of fragrances. The name alone makes you want to buy it, right?

To find out more or to shop online, visit their website at www.queenv.co, email them at hello@queenv.co, call 306.206.1331, or better yet, go down and see the store in person. It’s stunning.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar, August 2017.

Shop Local: The Best Brisket Ever!

Our shop local spotlight this month is on Jack Keaton’s, which is a locally owned and operated restaurant. Owners, Brett and Kristi Huber started their business in 2011, naming it after their two sons, Jack and Keaton.

I learned about this amazing place a few years ago while I was at an event in which they were taking part. I was so impressed with the quality of the food, that I had them cater our staff Christmas party that year. Let me tell you, their food is absolutely delicious. They specialize in BBQ (can you say the best brisket ever???) but they also serve vegetarian dishes. They offer dine in, take out and, as I mentioned, catering. It is such a friendly atmosphere that you feel more like family than customers.

Jack Keaton’s also loves to partner with local businesses and currently has 7 local beers on tap. They also serve other local liquor in their signature cocktails. Since January of 2016, Jack Keaton’s can be found at 210 – 2410 Dewdney Avenue, in the Warehouse District (just down the street from The Wine Cellar). The restaurant has a rustic charm and there is a patio!!! Check them out. I highly recommend them.

For more information, visit www.jackkeatons.com.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar, July 2017.

Shop Local: Enhance Your Summer Fun!

It is such a pleasure for me to tell you about Windsor Plywood Regina. The first time I shopped there was to buy a new door for my office many years ago. I still love that door! They made the process so simple that ever since, Windsor Plywood Regina is the first place I think of for anything home renovation.

Windsor Plywood Regina is family owned and run, and you will find the owners, Richard and Val Daku, and their son, Brennan, on the store floor daily, helping customers. They and their staff have strong customer service values and will always do their best to make sure that their customer leaves happy.

Their staff is very knowledgeable about all of the products and are happy to share the information, making decisions between options very easy! Tell them a little about where the product is going to be used and how that space will be used and they know exactly which beautiful option to recommend.

Summer is here and if you are planning any home or yard renovations, stop by Windsor Plywood Regina at 920 Bower Crescent. You'll be glad you did.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar, June 2017.

Shop Local: Marketing Made Fun - and Easy!

One of the best things that has happened to our business in the last few years is meeting Danielle Carrier. When we met, online marketing was stressful. Website changes were difficult, social media was confusing and getting information to our customers was slow. Danielle knew immediately what we needed and how to make it all happen.

Marketing is still work, but with Danielle's training and using the plan she developed, I have discovered I love the social part of social media. We update our website easily and quickly anytime we have new information and we have an email marketing campaign that our customers love. All the stress is gone.

Danielle and Brandi Good launched Your Marketing Made Easy, DIY Marketing Membership +Networking for small business, this year. As a founding member, I highly recommend membership to any small business owner who has marketing decisions to make. They provide extensive resources on the members only website, live help twice weekly, network events and workshops. Non-members are welcome at events and can find tips on their blog. Their weekly small business event listing is a great resource that non-members can sign up for and advertise their events in.

We credit Danielle with the success of our move online. Her direction and training has provided a way for us to develop deeper relationships with our customers and getting to know them all has been such a joy!

Want to experience more joy in your online marketing? Check them out!
yourmarketingmadeeasy.com | diymarketinghelp.com  |  reginasmallbusiness.com

Originally published in The Wine Cellar November 2016.

Shop Local: Staying Strong with B's Fitness!

Our shop local feature this month is someone who is very near and dear to my heart. Several years ago, a hip problem caused me to stop running. Having always been active, this was difficult for me and when my hip improved, I was anxious to get back to regular activity but very aware I could injure my hip. Our daughter encouraged me to seek out the help of a personal trainer and that is how Brandi Smith entered my life.

Brandi was working at Gold’s Gym at the time and, from the very first time I worked out with her, I knew I was in good hands. She has her degree in kinesiology as well as her personal trainer credentials and truly knows her stuff. About a year after working out together, Brandi moved on to Heavy Gym. I finished off my sessions at Gold’s under George’s watchful eye and then followed her. Brandi is amazing. She makes a personal connection with every client she trains. She loves what she does. She believes in what she does. She lives what she does and it shows. When I was able to run stairs again, I realized she truly changed my life! She will help you get stronger and healthier. Don’t be intimidated.

I encourage you to check out B’s Fitness Facebook page or get in touch:
Facebook | Email | Call 306.540.6964

Originally published in The Wine Cellar October 2016.

Shop Local: Ginga Futebol Academy

Although we have always only featured local businesses which we frequent ourselves, we’re making an exception this month. That’s because the only reason we haven’t used this business is because they were not in business when our kids were young. Ginga Futebol Academy has been open since 2010. It is owned by two of my dear friends, Filipe and Sarah Cameron. Ginga  provides soccer training and development for kids ages 5 through 18. At Ginga, the focus is on building a strong technical foundation in a fun and supportive environment. With small player/coach ratios and trained coaches, they have something for everyone from the beginner to the player looking to take their game to the next level! Ginga is one of a kind in Regina and if our grandkids lived in Regina, we’d want to enroll them in this Academy. Filipe is totally dedicated to making sure that all kids have a wonderful experience. Fall registrations are open now!

I encourage you to contact Ginga Futebol Academy:
Register | More Info | Email | Facebook

Originally published in The Wine Cellar September 2016.

Shop Local: The Perfect Fit

If you’re like me, you have alterations and/or tailoring that need to be done from time to time. It’s always a bit scary leaving your favourite clothing items with someone to cut up and alter. Well, be afraid no longer and visit Alieh Soleimani at Art Tailoring, 1230 Broad Street, in the Value Mall.

Alieh opened her business in 2006. She is a lovely person and the most amazing tailor with over 20 years experience in the field. She does custom tailoring and makes complete wedding and grad gowns, and any kind of costume.

A friend of mine recently had a sari tailored by Alieh, which turned out beautifully. She has altered numerous items for my family and we trust her implicitly. She guarantees her work and she has the most reasonable rates.

Check Alieh out at arttailoring.ca, pop her an email at info@arttailoring.ca or call her at 306-525-9009.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar August 2016.

Shop Local: A Look Back

With summer here and many of us out and around the city enjoying the season, we wanted to take a second look at some of the fantastic local businesses in our community. Here are the ones we have featured so far. Click through to meet the owners and find out more about why I shop local.

Crave Kitchen + wine bar
Chef Jonathan Thauberger is a big believer in good quality food and supports local producers.

Hip2Knit
Hip2Knit offers knitters a place to get together, and share their knowledge and experience with one another.

Pawsitively Purrfect
Anything you need for your pet, can be found at Pawsitively Purrfect at a competitive price with unbeatable service.

Bib & Tucker Clothing
You won’t leave with something that doesn’t look absolutely great on you.

Brenda Klarer, RMT & Bowen Therapy
I encourage you to give Brenda a call if you are experiencing pain or mobility issues. She can help!

Tasha's Day Spa
Everything hair and nails, the entire staff at Tasha’s has a commitment to great customer service.

Serendipity Gluten Free Catering
Serendipity offers a daily luncheon menu as well as baking, featuring soup and more. It's all absolutely delicious!

Sara Lindsay The Makeup Store
Whenever I have a special occasion, Sara is my go-to gal and The Makeup Store luxury products are unbelievable.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar, July 2016.

Shop Local: Feeling beautiful with Sara Lindsay!

With wedding season getting into full swing now, I thought it would be a perfect time to feature one of my favourite shops: Sara Lindsay The Makeup Store, located at 3420 Hill Avenue, phone 306-347-7829. I first met Sara in 2012 when she had a small studio on Dewdney Avenue and she did my make-up for our daughter’s wedding. Although I will confess to being a little intimidated by her credentials when I first arrived, she immediately put me at ease with her friendly manner. I was so impressed by her professionalism and friendliness, not to mention the awesome job she did on my face, that I never forgot her. So, of course when she opened her shop on Hill Avenue a couple of years ago, I became a customer and now think of her as a friend. Whenever I have a special occasion, she’s my go-to gal. When I was recently nominated for a YWCA Women of Distinction award, Sara did my make-up for the Awards Gala and made me feel very beautiful. But Sara Lindsay The Makeup Store offers more than getting your makeup done! Sara offers makeup lessons as well for people of all ages. They also offer esthetics and lash extensions, and sell several lines of luxury cosmetics and hair products. Believe me, it’s beautiful stuff. For more information, you can find Sara Lindsay The Makeup Store online at:

Website  | Facebook  | Twitter  |  Instagram

Originally published in The Wine Cellar, June 2016.

Shop Local: Serendipity, YUM!

Many of you know that I have Celiac Disease. It is a real challenge at times finding food that is gluten free and tastes delicious. Meet Kathryn Santha of Serendipity Gluten Free Catering.

The first time I ever tasted the deliciousness that is Serendipity’s baking was at Tasha’s Day Spa’s grand reopening where Tasha was serving mini cupcakes from Serendipity. When I bit into the cupcake, I almost spit it back out. Not because it was not tasty, but BECAUSE it was soooo tasty. I thought for sure that this could not be a gluten free cupcake and that I was about to get very sick. Not so. It was completely gluten free AND delicious. I could not believe what I was tasting!

Kathryn began her business as a catering business four years ago and opened her bakery at 910 11th Avenue on October 15. You can read more about her serendipitous path to where she is today on her website. She has quite a story. Serendipity is truly a family owned business. Kathryn’s mother, Tara, helps with the baking and cooking and her dad does the deliveries and maintenance.

Serendipity offers a daily luncheon menu as well as baking, featuring delicious soup and other things. You can also find their products at Café Drip, Dad’s Organic Market, The Diplomat and Rochdale Roca House. I really encourage you to check them out, even if you are not on a gluten free diet, because Serendipity offers delicious food which just happens to be gluten free.

Find them online: Website  | Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Instagram

Originally published in The Wine Cellar May 2016.

Shop Local: Tasha's Day Spa

Our shop local feature this month is Tasha’s Day Spa. They specialize in hair, laser, nails and aesthetics. I’ve known owner Tasha Freistadt for many years now. She truly encapsulates the young entrepreneur. She worked as an aesthetician at a couple of spas/clinics in town and then decided to go it on her own. She found a spot at 925 11th Avenue and I don’t think she’s ever looked back.

Because she is so good at what she does, and has a wonderful personality, her customers love her and come back over and over. When she started out she did only nails and aesthetics. But her hard work has enabled her to expand her business, in size and services! Tasha’s Day Spa now offers hair styling, as well as laser hair removal, in addition to all the other services.

The entire staff at Tasha’s has a commitment to great customer service, which I love (as you know). I encourage you to check them out at tashasdayspa.com or on Facebook.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar April 2016.

February Community Support

United Way Regina celebrated Dr. Seuss' Birthday February 26, when 150 volunteers read to a children at four selected schools in Regina. In addition to that, sixteen various schools across the city celebrate Dr. Seuss, the man behind the funny rhymes.

I was one of the volunteer readers and I had such a great time! What a fantastic event. Well done United Way Regina!

We also had a chance to help the The Shirley Schneider Support Centre with a donation of a 36.6L stainless steel stock pot. My interest in nutrition has grown since being diagnosed with Celiac. The Wine Cellar was happy to help with nutrition education!

The support centre is a caring, trusting, supportive environment for pregnant and parenting teens in pursuit of education, self-esteem and life-long learning. If you want to know more about the work the centre does, check them out online.

Shop Local: Bowen Therapy with Brenda Klarer

Brenda is a certified Bowen Practitioner and has also been a successful businesswoman in Regina for many years. She recently sold her large clinic in favour of an in-home clinic. I say in-home clinic because that is where it is located, but once you enter the clinic, which has a separate side entrance from the living space, it is clear that you are now in a professional health care space with a welcoming atmosphere of total relaxation.

Brenda is an expert at Bowen Therapy. For years I had trouble turning my head properly to the right without experiencing pain. I went to see Brenda and, I kid you not, after only one treatment, I have been able to turn my head further than I had in years and without any pain whatsoever. This was a couple of years ago and I have not had any further problems with this issue. I became a big believer in Bowen Therapy in general and in Brenda in particular. I encourage you to get more information from her website and book an appointment. You will not regret it.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar March 2016.

Shop Local: Put on Your Bib & Tucker!

Bib and Tucker is one of my favourite clothing shops in Regina. Did you know that “bib and tucker” is an old British saying, meaning “your best dress”, as in “put on your bib and tucker”? Well, if you want to put on your bib and tucker, Bib and Tucker is the place for you.

Gaynor Novak, the owner, who opened the shop at 2535 Broad Street in July 2014, carries a fantastic range of clothing from jeans to party dresses. She carries many Canadian brands, including Watuko, a line of bamboo headwear out of Saskatoon! Gaynor limits the number of pieces she stocks in varying sizes, so that what you purchase really is special and you won’t see it on everyone all over town (which we all know, is very important to us women, right?)

Another thing that sets Bib and Tucker apart from other clothing shops is the service. Gaynor and her staff treat you like family the minute you set foot through the door. They are unpretentious, helpful and honest. You won’t leave with something that doesn’t look absolutely great on you.  You can get more information at www.bibandtuckerclothing.com and on Facebook at /bibandtuckerregina.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar February 2016.

In Support of the Regina Queen City Kinettes for Telemiracle!

The Wine Cellar is proud to support the 12th Annual Regina Queen City Kinettes Ladies Night Out for Telemiracle 40 by donating a Wine Making Experience valued at $200.

Looking for something fun to do on January 30? Click here to check out all the event details or to get tickets. Their 2015 event looks like it was a great time and all in support of a fantastic cause!

It's Pawsitively Purrfect!

It’s not only a one stop dog shop but a one stop pet shop. Anything you need for your pet, can be found at Pawsitively Purrfect at a competitive price with unbeatable service (and you know how we feel about service)!

I’ve been frequenting this great place since Ivy and Richard Morton first opened their dog grooming business in a small 400 square foot space on south Albert Street in October of 1997. Two moves later and they can now be found at 4637 Rae Street in 4600 square feet of space. They have everything (and I mean everything) you need for your pets, from kibble, canned, dehydrated and raw food to pet treats, leashes, beds, kennels, clothes, dishes… you name it and you’ll find it here.

They still do grooming as well, but appointments book up well in advance. You may want to take advantage of their $10 walk-in nail trims, which is a very popular service. For more details, I encourage you to check out their website onestopdogshop.com or visit them in person. You’ll find the service knowledgeable, friendly and second to none. Pawsitively Purrfect is another great reason to shop local!

Originally published in The Wine Cellar January 2016.

Shop Local: Drop by Hip2Knit!

Something you may not know about me is that I love to knit. Actually I love to knit while drinking wine and watching tennis on TV, hahaha.

Like many women my age, my mom taught me how to knit when I was a young girl, but I guess I just wasn’t the knitting type in my youth. Then 3 years ago, I decided to take knitting lessons at Hip2Knit.

This warm, little shop, located at 227 14th Avenue has been owned by Bill Schmidt since 2004. Although Bill is not a knitter himself, the man knows his yarns. He stocks lots of different types of yarns, mostly natural fibers, but also some blends. Hip2Knit has been a big part of the reason I enjoy knitting so much. Hip2Knit offers knitters a place to get together, and share their knowledge and experience with one another. There are usually a variety of knitting classes offered throughout the day on Saturdays, from beginner to advanced, most of them taught by Beth, lawyer by day, knitter by night, who is incredibly patient and knowledgeable. You’ll be amazed at the age range you’ll find there. Lots of young people are taking up the needles. I’ve made some good friends through knitting at Hip2Knit. If you want to learn how to knit, improve your knitting, connect with and share some laughs with other knitters, or find some amazing yarns and needles, Hip2Knit is the place for you.

Pop by and chat with Bill. He’ll point you in the right direction.

Hip2Knit is open T-F 10:30-4:30, Sat. 11:00-4:30, and is closed Sun & Mon.

Originally published in The Wine Cellar December 2015.

Supporting Our Community 2015

Hospitals of Regina Foundation -

The Hospitals of Regina Foundation works for you and your families to improve patient care at Regina’s hospitals.

The people of southern Saskatchewan depend on these hospitals for many essential services, and we depend on people like you for support that is equally important. We raise money for advanced equipment and other urgently needed enhancements. Without the generous donations from our community, we simply could not do this.

Ride for the Breath of Life 2015, Cystic Fibrosis Canada -

The Ride for the Breath of Life is an annual motorcycle fundraising event in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada at which Riders from all backgrounds band together to help change the face of cystic fibrosis from one of despair to one of hope.

Funds raised through the Ride for the Breath of Life support life-changing cystic fibrosis research, clinical care and advocacy. This support has resulted in outstanding progress in the quality of life for Canadians with cystic fibrosis.

With your help, we are getting even closer to finding a cure for this devastating disease. However, while we have achieved enormous gains in quality of life and life expectancy, we still lose precious young lives to cystic fibrosis every day. Join us at a Ride for the Breath of Life in your community!

CAMPA -
CAMPA is committed to a high quality music program in Campbell and the area schools, one that nurtures the understanding and appreciation of music as a life-long experience.

CAMPA’s purpose is to provide support for the music program through both financial and administrative assistance. Our goal is to enrich the music program while working in cooperation with the Regina Board of Education.

CAMPA also encourages and facilitates broad community involvement in the Campbell Area Music Program and the participation of the Campbell music community in the cultural life of Regina and beyond.

KidSport -

KidSport is a national not-for-profit organization that provides financial assistance for registration fees and equipment to kids aged 18 and under.

We believe that no kid should be left on the sidelines and all should be given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports. KidSport provides support to children in order to remove financial barriers that prevent them from playing organized sport.

Hockey & Hearts Celebrity Golf Tournament -
Hockey and Hearts is a volunteer driven non-profit organization committed to the prosperity of rural communities. The Celebrity Golf Tournament is it's flagship fundraiser, which was established to bring together the great hearts of the hockey community for a fun day in support of the Rouleau Memorial Rink.

Z99 Radiothon -
In support of NICU! This is the 28th year CC, Lorie & Buzz have hosted the Z99 Radiothon. The Z99 Radiothon has raised over $6.5 million for the Hospitals of Regina Foundation in support of the NICU.

Tor Hill Ladies Golf Club

High Noon Optimist Club Annual Golf Tournament

SunLife Financial Charity Golf Tournamant -
2015 in support of NICU!