Meet Chelsea. Chelsea is a proud Kamloopsian that his lived here her entire life and wouldn't have it any other way!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband, Kenny. Sounds cliche, but he truly is my best friend. We met in the 8th grade and he makes me laugh more than anyone else can.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
I don’t know if this fully qualifies as local, but Real Deals Kamloops! I spend a lot of time creating personalized gift baskets for clients and I love the great selection and the reasonable prices. Their stock constantly changes, so I never get bored.
Describe yourself in one word.
Honest.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
To me, the best place to be is with the people you love the most. If I can have my family and closest friends with me, I’d take being just about anywhere…….As long as there’s sun…...And a beach…….And cocktails!
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
It used to be the Waterslides (I’m really dating myself here) But, I would have to say Music in the Park. Such fantastic talent and I love that it’s open to anyone and everyone to enjoy.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
On my very first house showing as a new Real Estate Agent, I set off the house alarm. It was so loud and overwhelming to deal with. Needless to say, I didn’t make a sale that day!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Watching my mom make a difference in the lives of so many kids/teenagers over the years, in addition to raising myself and my three brothers. Some of the years she did this as a paid job, but many of the years she did it out of the kindness of her heart, often sacrificing things for herself in order to open up her home and heart to the kids that needed a place to feel safe and loved. She taught me so much about acceptance, compassion, and treating everyone as equals. She is an amazing person and I know she has many people out there that have had a better chance at life because she gave them opportunity to shine.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Family reunions in Cape Breton, hands down. When I think of my happy place, it here. I’ve spent many summers with my uncles, aunts, and cousins enjoying the singing, dancing and all around awesomeness that only a true Nova Scotia kitchen party has to offer. I feel so fortunate to have grown up with these great experiences and thankful that my girls have had the opportunity to be a part of it as well. They have both been back East at least 4-5 times so far.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
This year I have had the privilege to be involved with and sponsor a garden bed for the Grow A Row community garden, which support the Kamloops Food Bank. The goal is to provide the people in our local community with fresh and nutritious produce in addition to the generous donations of non-perishables that the great people of Kamloops give every year. I’m very proud to have been able to bring my girls along and teach them the importance of giving back.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
World Peace!........Just kidding. As lovely as that sentiment is, I honestly just wish for each person to be raised with more empathy for one another. Everyone is fighting a battle that you know nothing about. Be Kind!
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Usually I sneak away to my backyard, by the pool as I am right now, to enjoy the Kamloops sun! In the Winter months, I might curl up in bed with a coffee and good book. I’m a homebody at heart.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would love to see more nightlife available! Not in the sense of bars or nightclubs, necessarily but something like a comedy club would be fantastic!
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
Kamloops has something to offer everyone. Not only do we have friendly and welcoming communities, you’re never too far from any outdoor activity your heart desires.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. RV trip down the Oregon Coast
2. Taking up golf so the hubby and I have something to do in our, hopefully, early retirement
3. Making a proper bucket list for if I’m ever asked this in the future……...
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I love to plan parties! Not professionally but for family and friends. You might call me the “Theme Queen” (and I’d encourage you to do so) My kids’ birthday parties have often been the talk of the playdates, if I do say so myself!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
www.chelseamann.ca is my website and Facebook.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Chelsea Mann - Personal Real Estate Corporation.
Why did you get into/start this business?
Honestly, I kind of stumbled upon it. In the process of purchasing my first home, my Realtor (and eventual mentor) Donna McMillan, hired me as an office assistant. I fell in love with Real Estate and with helping people. The rest is history!
What is the goal of your business?
The surface goal is simple - Help people move. But, deeper than that is creating an experience that my clients can feel like they were listened to, protected & taken care of. My hope is that my clients know that I always have their best interests in mind
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
I think this is likely the answer from any working parent, but the biggest struggle is finding balance. Balance between having a successful career, being the parent, partner and friend that I can be proud of, and self care. It’s an ongoing labour of love.
What do you always find yourself saying?
How can I help? I’m a “fixer” by nature so I find myself constantly wanting to help family, friends and clients in any way I can.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Tell the truth, it’s easier to remember.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Channing Tatum........................No explanation needed
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
If we want great businesses to thrive, we have to support each other. You’re lifting others up and helping them achieve their dreams, and more often than not the products and services are just better.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My family. My husband and I just celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary and we work as a team to raise our two girls to be kind, caring, compassionate and also strong! Our goal is for them to be independent and to have the ability to stand up for and think for themselves. It will take more effort than ever with the world today, but we have created an amazing network of family (given and chosen) and we all work together. It takes a village!
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
I’d like to give a shout out to Teague Brinkworth and the whole team at Mortgage West! They are knowledgeable, personable and reliable. I can always recommend them with confidence!
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Karla Karcioglu! I teamed up with Karla earlier this year to help better market my brand and business and I couldn’t be happier! She bright and full of great insights and ideas for any small business owner
