In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KamloopsBCNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Kristen Gentile.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I moved a lot growing up but Kamloops is home!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My two boys! They are my world. Sure, they drive me crazy at times but most of all they make me laugh, smile, and warm my heart. I love watching them learn and figure out the world.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
I would love to take off to Greece and sit with a drink overlooking the water.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Well Big Boot Inn and Red Wing of course but we are so lucky to have many great local shops in Kamloops. I love Jardines, Castles and Cottages, and McAllister & Howard. They always have great quality, unique items and amazing service.
What is your favourite activity?
Curling. I have curled since I was young and, while I no longer play competitively, it will always be in my blood. I love the strategy of the game almost as much as the social side.
If you had to choose: pizza, tacos, or burgers?
I would have to choose tacos. I love a good spicy salsa.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
I was caught on live TV trying to hide an adult beverage while sitting in the stands at the Brier, an annual Canadian curling championship! The camera man set us up perfectly.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I am inspired by watching my parents. They are the most amazing couple. They celebrate 37 years married next week and they have been through good and bad together. They have run successful businesses, which has inspired me to attempt the same. They have travelled to great places. The stories and pictures motivate me to travel more. Despite the focus on business and travel, they manage to keep family time as number one. They inspire me everyday to be the best parent and person that I can possibly be.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
One moment that really stands out is a train trip to Disneyland with family friends. I am lucky to have many good childhood memories but the annual summer trips to my grandparent’s cabin at Turtle Lake, Saskatchewan were definitely very special. As well as our huge family Christmases were great. Anything with my family!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I help in running the Kamloops Curling Club Ladies’ League. Ryan and I also do our best to help with local fundraisers and events supporting those in need. I am very proud of the Kamloops community for really coming together and pitching in to help evacuees during the forest fires.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would love to see people get back to having real conversations. I am very much a participant in social media but I am realizing the texting and Facebook conversations just don’t replace face to face interactions. I urge people to grab a friend for coffee, test out a park bench or walk Victoria Street and converse with someone.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
We love to head out to the cabin on Kamloops Lake. It's my happy place!
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
I love to go for a good hike in Kenna Cartwright Park to get out and get some fresh air. Good for the body and soul.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I am biased towards promoting the attractions and culture of downtown. It is so great to hear customers say they are meeting friends downtown for shopping, coffee, or a concert. I hope we can find a way to continue to promote the downtown core as a social place to meet with friends and enjoy free time.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
It’s the combination of big city amenities and small town culture. We have services and activities that rival a big city, yet it’s still more than okay to smile at a stranger or strike up a conversation with someone new.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Climb Mount Terry Fox
2. Traveling to Greece
3. Taking the family to Disneyland
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
Despite owning and operating a shoe store, I actually have a bit of a phobia about feet. I have always had a problem having other people’s feet anywhere close to me. As for touching them, yuck. I guess that’s why I like shoes, they cover the feet up!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Nothing beats a phone call or FaceTime, but Facebook is where you can find me on social media.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Big Boot Inn Shoe Store, Red Wing Kamloops and Red Wing Abbotsford.
Why did you get into/start this business?
My parents asked Ryan and I if we were interested in stepping into the business. Initially, I told them no. However, Ryan soon decided he wanted to make a career change that would allow us to establish our roots in Kamloops. We jumped in, purchased the business and haven’t looked back since. We are thankful for the opportunity to pursue a career that will not require us to relocate our family. Also, I can’t talk about our early transition into the shoe business without thanking the Digeso family. They built such a great business with a rich history and, to this day, continue to help and encourage us toward our own success.
What is the goal of your business?
We want to always go above and beyond to make sure that each customer leaves with the perfect size and style for their needs. If the customer joys there experience, then so do we! We would love everyone to leave thinking 'Hey that was fun!'. Shoe shopping doesn’t have to be a scary or an unpleasant ordeal.
What has been your biggest struggle either in work or life?
Loss of loved ones is by far the biggest struggle for me. I am very thankful for the great family and friends in my life that have helped me to push through these struggles, storing the important memories and arriving at the happy place I am today.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
I think I would have slowed down as a young adult. I might be just a bit impatient and I can see my husband roll his eyes right now. I would have travelled more and taken my time with school and career choices versus trying to rush out into the work force. At the same time I am where I am for all the good and bad decisions I have made. So I really don’t have any major regrets.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Living the dream!' My two year old has taken to saying that all the time now too.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I would choose Adele. Her songs have had an impact on me and I would love to just talk to her and get to know her.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
I am a huge believer in shopping local. When we shop local, there is potential to build a relationship with someone who becomes like a personal advisor in their area of expertise. I love the fact that, when you shop downtown, you are often being helped by the owner or a family member. There are some very knowledgeable and talented people who are building their own Field of Dreams. Most important, your money supports the economy in Kamloops, allowing for growth in our local goods and services. I believe every dollar spent locally contributes in at least a small way to our tax base, which in turn, supports our health care, education and so much more.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My two boys. I am so proud of the amazing kids they are.
Give someone you think that deserves a shout out and explain why!
Dean Shaffi of Heritage furniture. He is a rotary member and is always jumping in to help others. He is someone who truly understands the importance of shopping local and is always supporting our local Kamloops businesses.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Dean Shaffi.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I can’t leave this without acknowledging my amazing husband and the rest of our team. We have the absolute best team and family around and our store would be nothing without them. I am so grateful everyday! Ryan, Mel, Dot, Kimi, Alison, Cheetie, Chloe, Alyssa, Eric, Christina, Geneva, Brian and Janet. Thank you.
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. Thank you, Kamloops.
