There are many new businesses in Prince Rupert, even though they may not have a storefront.
Twelve local entrepreneurs put their businesses on display during Unmasking New Business, the first annual Masquerade Social held at the Tom Rooney on Saturday, Oct. 6.
The networking event was organized by entrepreneurs Leanne Enns, Jewel Jerstad and Hannah Korhonen, and gave the community a chance to see some of Prince Rupert’s newest businesses.
Avant Garde by Courtnee’s Hair Design:
Located in Cow Bay, Avant Garde is owned by Courtnee Stephens who said, “What motivated me to open up was the need for a funky and educated salon in Prince Rupert”. There are currently three stylists employed at Avant Garde with a passion for hair and fashion. Stylists include Stephens, Aysha Kirkbright and Crystal Acker. 250-627-7441
Big Bookkeeping Services:
Shannon Movold received a certification in bookkeeping in 1985 from Northwest Community College, and in April her dream of running her own bookkeeping business out of her home came true. Movold offers services such as bookkeeping for small businesses, personal tax returns, word processing, data entry, resume writing and cover letters. 250-627-7247
DESOPS Design and Operations:
Owner Michael Spilsted opened DESOPS a couple of months ago and runs his business out of his home. The business does precision CNC machining and small part manufacturing using cutting edge technology to create reproduced products ranging from aluminum business nameplates, house numbers, 3D signage, and rubber stamps to custom vehicle grills, electric guitar bodies, long board decks and more. 250-600-5258
Harlow’s Eatery:
Harlow’s Eatery is an up and coming business that brings a unique perspective to any party or special event. Owned by Hannah Korhonen, and ran with the help of her family, the at home bakery offers custom-made cakes, cookies, cupcakes and other treats, as well as edible stands and decorations. 250-622-2383
Karis Counseling Services:
Karen Wells is the founder of Karis Counseling Services, and with the help of her partner Simon Wells, the two offer an arrangement of services including in-person seminars, in-office seminars, web seminars, telephone seminars, Skype counseling, workshops and more, for those struggling in their lives, marriages and at work. Karen focuses on helping women who are dealing with all types of trauma, and has written two books on the topic. Both are qualified therapists. 250-624-9535
Laser Fish Laser Tag Rental:
Alex and Julie Hogendoorn wanted to give kids and adults a fun, new party option and with the help of their sons Emmett and Caleb, the couple opened their laser tag business a month and a half ago. Laser Fish offers rental of laser tag equipment for any kind of party or event. People renting equipment can play tag indoors or outdoors, depending on what they want. 250-622-2627
Ocean Pearl Promotions and Event Planning:
Leanne Enns has been a promoter of bands and events for the last 15 years and decided it was “time to kick it up a notch and make a business” at the beginning of 2012. Ocean Pearl Promotions and Event Planning is run out of Enns’ home, and offers exceptional service in concert promotion, convention planning, fundraising and private parties. Enns says she would like to bring more entertainment to Prince Rupert, and is willing to work with promoters in other communities to do so. 1-778-884-6901
Punita Moudgill Photography:
Punita Moudgill has been interested in photography all her life, but in the past year her interest turned into her passion. “You see something you love and you want to hold on to it,” she said, adding that’s what photography is all about. Moudgill opened her business three months ago under the mentorship of Vancouver wedding photographer Jason Ho, who she says is her inspiration. Since starting her business, Moudgill has earned clients in places like Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo. Moudgill offers wedding photography, portraits, and more. 250-600-0953
Rainforest Babes Boutique:
Rainforest Babes Boutique is a children’s clothing business that owner Sophia Bubas currently runs out of her home. Bubas says if the business kicks off she will open a storefront in the community. The boutique specializes in children’s clothing sizes zero to eight years, from formal to casual wear, selling brands such as SOZO, Appaman, and Sophia. People can see what’s available on the businesses’ Facebook page. 1-604-374-3485
Siren’s Staging and Design:
Jewel Jerstad, owner of Siren’s Staging and Design, is an interior designer who offers home/event/commercial staging. Jerstad has worked in the industry for two years managing a local home décor and furniture store. Jerstad has a Diploma of Interior Design through the Design Institute and can address space concerns, lack of storage, as well as overall style and design. Free consultations. 250-622-9736
Wheelhouse Brewing Co.:
Although it’s not open yet, Wheelhouse Brewing is a micro-brewing company that will focus on brewing and selling beer. The business is currently being set up in Cow Bay and will be driven by what customers want. The owners are James Witzke, Craig Outhet and Kent Orton, who expect the store to be open in approximately four or five months. 250-600-3622
Zumba Fitness:
Partners Marilyn McKenna and Amanda Graham started Zumba Fitness a year ago, and since it has grown to become very popular in Prince Rupert. Zumba is a Colombian dance fitness program that's a fun way to keep fit. Zumba Fitness offers a number of different styles of Zumba classes including Zumba Gold, Zumbatomic, Zumba Toning, Zumba Sentao and regular Zumba. The business is currently operating out of the Lester Centre of the Arts, with different classes happening six days a week. 250-600-2688