Meet Natalie Dollman. Natalie is from Kamloops, born and raised! She is a busy bee who loves spending time with family and hitting up Scoopz.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
Kamloops - Born and raised!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family. Never a dull moment.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Big fan of Scoopz Ice Cream Parlour. I like 'almost' any flavour and it must be on a waffle cone. Never trust someone who eats ice cream out of a cup..
Describe yourself in one word.
Gosh, that's a tough one. I want to say a 'busy bee', but that's two words. Ha.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Disneyland. I've never been! My parents took us to Disney World as kids. So I am looking forward to seeing it through the eyes of my kiddos..and also seeing what all the rage is about for the churro.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Heading up to the hill. Whether it's winter or summer, Kamloops has something for everyone.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Not the most embarrassing thing, but I wish people would just tell you when you have something in your teeth or on your face or stuck to you. Do your friend a solid and just let them know. They will thank you later.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
When my first was born and I became a mom. I instantly saw the world differently. Things that you once thought were important stopped being important and you get a new sense of what truly matters.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Probably learning how to ride a bike. I skipped training wheels, my bike was a hand-me-down from my older brothers and three sizes too big, but I got on and just started peddling.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Last year I organized a 'Earth Day Community clean-up' within my neighbourhood. After just two hours of walking around as a group, we managed to collect 18 LARGE garbage bags full of garbage! The best part about it was when the kids (Ages 3-4) that were helping were excited to say, "We are cleaning the earth!" I knew then we were making an impact. My hope is that it will cause a ripple effect and one by one each person will begin to be more mindful of the waste that lives around us and help do something about it.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would change how people treat it. Go back to some of the simple ways of living.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
A coffee shop.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
To see the people living a more simple/thoughtful life towards the environment. To reduce the amount of garbage/waste we create and consume while being mindful within our homes and the community.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The local business owners. Their community support and their drive to see growth in this city.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook and Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Natalie Dollman Photography.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I love being creative and crave that outlet. So when I began my business as a photographer it just seemed right.
What is the goal of your business?
I want to capture life. As my clients grow, start families, become families; I want to be there along with them capturing all the joys that come along with it.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Finding balance, 100%. Being a small business owner and a mom of two littles can be a juggling act. While you want to see your business grow and succeed; you want to be present and enjoy the time with your family.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Why is this sticky?" "No, you can't have a popsicle for breakfast." And "Is it bedtime yet?"
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Dance to your own beat, roam without cages. To see the world through the innocence of a child.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Without local businesses, the community does not grow. The local businesses are what keeps the heart of Kamloops pumping.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
My two kids. Hands down.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My hubby and The grandparents —They don’t ask for thank you’s and they don’t question the need for their help when life/business starts to get crazy!
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Terri Runnalls. She is a mom of twins, a true advocate for the arts, and my beautiful sis-in-law.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Be kind, stay humble. You change the world by your example, not your opinion.
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!
