Convenience Stories

I’m beyond excited to announce a new project that’s incredibly close to my heart—a coffee table book filled with vibrant photographs and compelling stories, shining a spotlight on the hardworking local entrepreneurs who run the convenience stores and coffee shops that keep our communities going. This idea feels special to me, like it's meant to be shared, and I can’t wait to bring it to life!

The inspiration for this project came during one of the most difficult periods of my life—driving my best friend Amy to Princess Margaret Hospital for her chemotherapy treatments. As we passed by the corner stores and coffee shops in Toronto, I found myself drawn to them, wondering about the lives of the people who owned them. Where did they come from? What are their stories? Do they truly live and work in the same space, dedicating countless hours to their business?

These questions lingered with me, and I felt a strong pull to uncover and share their untold stories.

Amy had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen and valued, including me. :) Her ability to bring out the best in others and forge genuine connections has inspired me to honor her memory through this book—sharing these stories and celebrating the lives of those whose voices often go unheard.

This book will highlight the hardworking entrepreneurs, often immigrants, who pour their hearts into their businesses—whether it’s a corner store open late into the night or a cozy café brewing the perfect cup of coffee. Starting in Orillia, my dream is to expand across Ontario and eventually...Canada! This is just the beginning—the first in a series! Through photos and personal stories, I hope to give you a glimpse into the lives that make our towns special.

Stay tuned for updates and sneak peeks as the journey unfolds!