Meet Rona, she is from originally from Ontario and has lived in Kamloops for 17 years. Rona is the owner of Amazing Inspirations, a local boutique store selling recreated furniture and décor. Rona utilizes her passion for creativity in making custom projects for interior design such as refurbished furniture and antiques. Stop by her store the next time you shopping for a unique find.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My boyfriend Mike and my kids, they are all very caring and kind-hearted. I love hearing about their days and what they have been up to or what they have planned. My daughter helps me at my store almost every day.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Amazing Inspirations.
Describe yourself in one word.
Motivated
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Europe, there is so much culture and beautiful scenery.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
I love hiking all the beautiful trails, although I haven't had much time lately.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Which day? Way to many to divulge. I am sure my girlfriends could give plenty of examples.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
When I took over Amazing Inspirations, I was very scared and insecure. Since opening at the beginning of July, I have had wonderful feedback about my creations and that has really inspired me to keep going and use my creativity to do what I love.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My babysitter's daughter and I used to make forts out of blankets and random furniture. They looked to us like a palace. I think that’s where it all began. My love for creating.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I used to be on the Gur Singh Memorial Golf Tournament committee for five years. Right now, I am actively pursuing joining a new committee within Kamloops. I can't say which one right now, as it is still in the works but I can say that I am really excited about it.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would love it if people could love more and hate less. Quit judging, and start being nicer to one another. Build each other up!
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
My workshop
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would like to live up the North Shore. Let’s get some more boutiques and make it a wonderful place to wander around.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
All the community events and not for profit agencies.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
- To get back to the gym
- To weed my garden
- To take a vacation somewhere warm this winter.
I live in the “now”
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I was born in Yellowknife and I hate the cold!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Our store has a Facebook and Instagram page.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Amazing Inspirations
Why did you get into/start this business?
It has always been my passion. However, I stumbled upon it, purchased it and quit my job to start the new adventure with only 2 weeks of preparation.
What is the goal of your business?
To make customers love their products as much as I do.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Letting people know that the store is open and getting our name out there.
What do you always find yourself saying?
Awesome, let’s do it!
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Enjoy what you do and you will not look at work as a job.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
A famous chef. I’m super hungry and I don’t have time to cook. Let’s get busy in the kitchen! I’ll bring the wine!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It is great to support members of the community. Let’s keep local businesses open and thriving.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My kids. They are wonderful humans with big hearts.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My boyfriend Mike. He works tirelessly and is always there to help me with anything I ask of him. He encouraged and supports me with all the business needs and just loves to see me happy.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Shanah Skjeie
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.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
