Meet Jennifer Simmons. Jennifer has lived in Kamloops her whole life. She is a passionate woman who is all about her kids, checking out the local food scene, and visiting wineries.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I have lived in Kamloops my whole life, and for the last four years have lived in Westsyde.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family and my partner and best friend Tobin.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Well, right now it’s crazy 8cres, Privato Winery, and Woodward Cider Co. We’ve just recently discovered these local businesses that are literally a five min drive away from us. They have fantastic veggies and meats and music at the winery. Love it.
Describe yourself in one word.
Passionate.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Well, that’s hard. I think Italy to just experience the authentic Italian food.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Probably visiting the local wineries and eating at the local restaurants. Oh and music in the park.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Oh jeez, so many I’m just used to it now.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
My parents. Just watching them live life. They’ve been married 46 years, worked hard and now are traveling all over. And they love each other like they just fell in love yesterday. They are truly inspiring and I hope we are like that at 46 years.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
When we were young mom and dad would take us to Hyas lake every summer for the whole summer. I just remember fishing and cooking dinner on the campfire and swimming. It was a lot of fun.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
When the kids were in elementary school I volunteered for years as the crosswalk supervisor and noon hour supervisor. Many hours were spent at the school.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
For everyone to be just a little kinder.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
My house. It’s my sanctuary and I could spend hours baking and cooking or reading and gardening.
Where would you like to see a positive change in Kamloops and why?
There have been some great changes to the North shore so I think that is positive.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The community, the people are great here.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I used to have to read the directions on the back of a Kraft dinner box. I didn’t always know how to cook. I mostly taught myself and learned as I went along.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
https://m.facebook.com/TheDelectableBakery/ And http://instagram.com/the_delectable_bakery.
What is the name of your business/organization?
The Delectable Bakery.
Why did you get into/start this business?
It just sort of happened organically. I’ve always loved baking and I started by selling cookies and then it progressed from there. To breads cinnamon buns and all kinds of other things.
What is the goal of your business?
Just to feed people and have them love my baking. Makes me smile and warms my heart.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Time management and trying to balance between baking and everyday life.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Everything happens for a reason."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Listen to your intuition and that little voice in your head. It always knows.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Oh gosh. I don’t know. Maybe, chef John or Laura Vitale, they both have youtube channels where I learned a lot of my recipes.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
It’s healthier food, keeps money in the community, improves the local economy. Plus we get to know who we buy from. These are families trying to make a living.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My children. Raising them and watching them grow into beautiful human beings. They are my everything.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My kids Deven, Kayla, Tai, and Bella. I’m proud of all of them and love them to the moon and back.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Carla Ehman. She owns Valley’s Edge Designs.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I just want to say thank you I love baking and am so grateful for all the support I’ve received.
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!
