New Brunswick Women Business Owners

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Ambitious, intelligent and thriving women business owners are located throughout New Brunswick. Here are some of their stories...
Northwest
	Parise Côté : Au Bout du Monde Au Bout du Monde “Every one at one time another dreams of going to the ends of the earth. If you happen to live in Edmundston, N.B., the dream becomes real when you enter Au bout du monde, a one-of-a-kind boutique,”
	Garderie Winnie the Pooh: Danielle Michaud Garderie Winnie the Pooh When Danielle Michaud launched her daycare with six children, she never imagined that 10 years later she would be responsible for 60 children as well as a staff of 11.
	Selling Dreams is What Nicole Levesque Does Best Grand Falls Real Estate Passion transcends in everything Nicole Levesque does, whether it is cooking or being the successful owner of Grand Falls Real Estate.
	Carole Beaulieu of Beaulieu Plumbing and Mechanical Inc. Beaulieu Plumbing and Mechanical Inc. What started off in a spare bedroom of the paternal house for Carole Beaulieu and her husband Gaëtan in 1984, flourished into Beaulieu Plumbing and Mechanical Inc. the successful business located in Edmundston, NB, presently employing over 80 people.
	Francine Kanhai: Entrepreneur and Community Leader Francine’s Quick Mart Francine Kanhai was chosen as Grand Falls Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2008.
	Francine Guimont ~ “A Lifetime Tradition of Family & Food” Pizza Boy Growing up in a family of nine children, Francine had the responsibility of feeding her brothers, sisters, and parents. This task certainly benefited her future career decisions.
	Monique Godbout ~ Centre Énergie Mystik With Monique’s passion for business, it’s no wonder that this busy entrepreneur has been nominated for several awards and won the prize for “Best Service” in 2009 in Edmundston, NB.
	Lily Durepos - 2011 Provincial Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award Alliance Assurance Inc. Lily Durepos is the 2011 Provincial Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner for New Brunswick. She is the co-owner of Alliance Assurance Inc. – with a head office located in Grand Falls and 10 offices/point of sales situated throughout the province. In addition to owning Alliance Assurance Inc., this year’s laureate owns three other businesses – Advantage Financing Ltd, Place Broadway Limited (16 commercial offices, 163 000 square feet), and Keal Technology – (a manufacturer of technology for the finance and insurance industry with offices located in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.)
	Madelaine Levesque Toner - Best Western Plus (Grand Falls and Fredericton) Best Western Plus (Grand Falls and Fredericton) Quality, Service and Pride Describe Madelaine Levesque Toner’s Commitment to Business Excellence In 2008, Madelaine opened her second Best Western in Fredericton with 80 rooms. An additional 53 rooms have recently been added to host more guests. Moreover, both hotels are now recognized with the company’s “Best Western Plus” brand for their sheer elegance and comfort. When asked to describe her business in three words, she says, “Quality, service and pride.” To explain quality and service, she is constantly keeping up with the current trends in technology and listening to client needs. “I read every comment card. We ask clients to fill them out because we genuinely want to improve.” As for pride, “Our staff takes pride in cleanliness. They constantly strive for perfection and we are always working towards the same goal.”
	Dr. Carole Ouellette - Woman Entrepreneure of the Year 2011 - Grand Falls Region Dr. Carole Ouellette Dr. Carole Ouellette - Woman Entrepreneure of the Year 2011 - Grand Falls Region Imagine a place where many different health care professionals come together to collaborate in order to help people find their path to optimal health. The calm décor and relaxing music exude a sense of wellbeing as soon as you walk through the doors. Dr. Carole Ouellette made this dream a reality by opening Grand Falls Chiropractic Wellness Centre on October 15, 2008.
	Ambition Driven, Fuelled for Success CAJMO Confort Inc. On a shelf in Carole Michaud’s office sits a small mirror. On the bottom of the mirror is a securely taped piece of paper with one word. “NEXT.” The mirror and its message have been a source of inspiration for the successful entrepreneur and president, who owns CAJMO Comfort Inc, a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) company and also a wholesaler in petroleum products in the North West of New Brunswick.
	Gisèle Martin - O-Bo-Coffret O-Bo-Coffret Mrs Gisèle Martin is an extraordinary woman who has vision. Gisèle is a true businesswoman. At barely 12 years old, her favourite pastime was to sell products by catalogue to her teachers.
Southeast
	Martina Leblanc - Alphaplex Custom Fabrication Alphaplex Custom Fabrication Martina LeBlanc, owner of Alphaplex Custom Fabrication, a custom plastic fabricator located in Dieppe, NB has had many new beginnings.
	Nicola MacNaughton: Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2009 Occupational Concepts It was Nicola MacNaughton’s commitment to excellence and entrepreneurial spirit that led her to found Occupational Concepts, the largest private state-of-the-art occupational therapy rehabilitation facility in Atlantic Canada.
	Saving Time and Money and Meeting Your Building Potential at Meltech: Heather Beal Meltech Heather Beal and her partner Gordon Melvin recently launched Meltech Thermal Imaging, an innovative new company that uses an infrared camera to take thermal images and scans of buildings.
	Amanda Feindel, The Cackling Goose Market The Cackling Goose Market Amanda Feindel is the owner and operator of The Cackling Goose Market in Sackville, New Brunswick.
	Paula Morand - Jumpstart 720 International Inc Jumpstart 720 International Inc. Dynamic, authentic, genuine, knowledgeable and approachable are just some of the many ways to describe Paula Morand--entrepreneur, business professional, author, actor, broadcaster, and writer.
	Janice Melanson - Bella Promessa Bella Promessa It is not everyday that a stop at a red light beside a bridal boutique turns into a career altering change. But, that is exactly what happened to Janice Melanson, a lawyer by trade, who needed some retail therapy after a difficult court case.
	Evolution Graphics - Bernice Melanson Evolution Graphics “Evolution Graphics: Helping Clients Communicate Their Message to the World” Bernice Melanson opened Evolution Graphics, a full-service communications agency based out of Moncton, N.B. in 2007. This innovative company specializes in advertising, branding and marketing.
Fundy
	Entrepreneur Denise Dow Knows The True Meaning of Strong & Free Strong & Free For Denise Dow of Saint John, NB, “Strong & Free” is the realization of a life long dream to provide Canadians worldwide with an emblem to display their patriotism for Canada.
	Becky Consolvo: Where Service Means Everything Darlings Island Bike Shop “Darlings Island Bike Shop is the only choice for bicycle enthusiasts looking for a new bike or for parts and service in Southern New Brunswick."
	Christel Seeberger of tOTal ability: A Passion for Occupational Therapy Drives Her Success tOTal ability Christel Seeberger’s passion for her occupational therapy and helping others is contagious. This energetic and positive entrepreneur holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy from McGill University, graduating in 1993. Although she is originally from Montréal, she has made Saint John, New Brunswick her home since 1997.
	Marketing As Collaboration with Kim Houlahan of the Houlahan Group The Houlahan Group Kim Houlahan is originally from Brockville, Ontario but lived in Ottawa for 20 years before moving to New Brunswick in 2004. She holds as a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (Photography) from the University of Ottawa.
	Kelly Etheridge’s Passion will “Cater To Your Health” Cater to Your Health Cater to Your Health is what Kelly Etheridge does and she does it well. When sampling her food, it is incredible to believe it is actually good for you.
	Jennifer Fiander of Lil’ Angel Gifts Lil’ Angel Gifts Jennifer Fiander is the owner and operator of Lil’ Angel Gifts, an internet-based business that offers specialty journals, and note cards.
	Living the Dream with Zelda McKenzie: Zelda’s River Adventures Ltd Zelda’s River Adventures Ltd If you are looking for adventure and a family-friendly outdoor experience, Zelda’s River Adventures Ltd., New Brunswick’s first eco-friendly, electrically powered, disability accessible, 260 square foot pontoon boat is just the right experience for you!
	Beverly's Esthetic Studio Will Lift Your Spirits in Hampton, NB Beverly's Esthetic Studio If you are seeking an oasis, a tranquil environment where total body care is the key to beauty, visit Beverly’s Esthetic Studio in Hampton, New Brunswick.
	Donna Walsh, Cricket Cove: Putting a New Face on Knitting Cricket Cove Donna Walsh of Cricket Cove takes knitting to a new level. With a passion for knitting,this former nurse has a location in Black's Harbour that would amaze and impress the seasoned knitter or hobbyist the same.
	Sharyn VanDerGulik, Allure Fashion: The Bright, Fun and Relaxed Place to Shop Allure Fashion Looking for that perfect dress for an event, or good quality, everyday clothing for work or home? It’s now possible in St. Stephen, thanks to entrepreneur Sharyn VanDerGulik of Allure Fashion.
	The Girls Bra Shop – anniversary update The Girls Bra Shop Real Women, Real Bras, Real Beauty The personality of The Girls Bra Shop is all about spoiling a woman during her shopping experience. The aim is to create an atmosphere of luxury while a woman shops for her intimate apparel, so that she leaves the store standing taller and feeling better about herself... feeling beautiful from the inside out.
	Alaina Lockhart - Lockhart’s Weddings and Special Occasions Lockhart’s Weddings and Special Occasions *Lockhart Weddings and Special Occasions-Amazing Gowns,* *Memorable Experiences* One of the aspects of choosing a dress is the style and look. Lockhart’s is known for carrying the newest and most respected collections each season. Another important aspect is trust. Their professional staff wants to help each bride make their special day memorable. When asked to describe her vision, “I once considered multiple locations but when you do business models and measure against life balance, I like the flexibility and time to spend with my husband and children. We have room in our current location to grow.”
Northeast
	Les Blancs d’Arcadie: Alberte Doiron Les Blancs d’Arcadie Since 1991, Les Blancs d’Arcadie, a company based out of Caraquet, has earned an excellent reputation as a cheese maker on the Acadian Peninsula.
	First Woman Entrepreneur of The Year - Rachel Cyr - Framing Rachel Cyr Framing Diane Vigneault, development officer for the New Brunswick Association of CBDCs was pleased to present Rachel Cyr with the first ever Woman Entrepreneur Award for the Greater Bathurst region, at a lavish gala during Small Business Week.
	Flowers Speak to Your Heartstrings at Les Fleurs D’Acadie: Marie Lanteigne Les Fleurs D’Acadie When shopping for flowers, the last thing you expect to be asked by the florist is “Who are the flowers for?” “What are the person’s interests?” “What color are his/her eyes?”
	Marie-Hélène Whitty Accountant/Comptable Originally from Gaspésie Marie-Hélène Whitty studied administrative sciences at the Cégep de la Gasspésie et des Îles and later obtained her Bachelor of Business Administration from Laval University.
	Outcome Driven Describes Nancy McKay Does Best of Management Dimensions Management Dimensions To say that Nancy McKay is busy would be an understatement but this dynamic entrepreneur likes it that way.
	Brigitte Beliveau: Belliveau Insurance Belliveau Insurance Mrs. Belliveau is the head of Belliveau Insurance, which has just opened a branch in Dieppe, as well as maintaining its office in Campbellton.
	A Tranquil and Relaxing Experience at Aux Mille Herbes Produit Naturel, Inc. with Irène Boucher Aux Mille Herbes Produit Naturel, Inc. Imaging walking into a place and smelling fresh bread. There is no better smell and no better feeling. This is a reality when you visit Irène Boucher, owner and operator of Aux Mille Herbes Produit Naturel, Inc., une entreprise située à Caraquet.
	Claudia Martin: Occupational Therapist Occupational Therapy/Ergothérapeute Claudia Martin is an occupational therapist. Occupational therapy is a branch of rehabilitation that works towards independence of her clients through occupation. Occupational therapy promotes balance between self care, productivity and leisure.
	Atlantik Quality Care: Aging with Grace Soins de Qualité Atlantik Quality Care It is an undisputable fact that one of the fastest growing demographics in Canada is that of baby boomers approaching retirement, which accounts for approximately one-third of this country’s entire population.
	Harmonie Centre - Rose-Anne L. Savoie Harmonie Centre Rose-Anne L. Savoie, a bilingual business woman, has been operating the Centre Harmonie since 1997. The centre offers consultation services in human potential development including stress management, conflict resolution, general counseling, relaxation techniques, therapeutic touch visualization, Brain Gym and psycho-corporal movements.
	Karine Wade Image Karine Wade Image Living in Caraquet, New Brunswick, Karine Wade gives life to photography. She specializes in the art of photography, is an expert in commercial photography for advertising and provides personalized custom services. Thanks to her friendly personality, Karine creates a climate of trust with her customers who realize that she has captured their memories with her wonderful photographs.
	Living Your Dream is Possible: Nathalie Blanchard, La Résidence McGraw La Résidence McGraw “Living Your Dream is Possible with Hard Work and Determination” From a very early age, Nathalie Blanchard had the “entrepreneurial spirit”. Whether it was working as a health care aide at her Aunt Norma’s care home, running her own taxi company or working as a medical secretary for Dr. JM Michel, Nathalie was gathering a variety of experience that would serve her in the future.
	Hélène Haché and Nadine Roy Cormier Chez Goloso Chez Goloso- Discovering the Taste of Italy Right Here in Acadie Originating from the Italian word for “sweet tooth” Chez Goloso, a business specializing in homemade gelatos, is delighting taste buds. Friends Nadine Roy Cormier and Hélène Haché always knew that they would like to open a business together, but after a trip to Italy, their business idea became clear. They decided to take the Italian “joie de vie” and create a European experience right here in downtown Caraquet.
	Christine Dior - Bijouterie Christine Dior Jewelry “Be Positive and Smile With Life”-Bijouterie Christine Dior Jewelry For 33 years, Bijouterie Christine Dior Jewelry has been a fixture in Dalhousie, New Brunswick. Owner Christine believes in creating a family environment among employees and clients and treating everyone with consideration and respect. Known for her positive attitude, Christine says, “You must always be positive and smile with life. If you are positive and see a challenge, nothing can stop you.”
	Woman Entrepreneure of the Year 2010 - Péninsule Acadienne Wanita McGraw - Associate, Benoit McGraw & Paulin – Comptables Agréés Mrs. McGraw has worked for an International Chartered Accountants’ firm for 5 years before moving in the Tracadie-Sheila region. She is now a partner in an accounting firm in Tracadie-Sheila composed of 18 people and totalling 35 years’ experience.
	Olga Chouinard - Coffee Stain - Greater Bathurst Woman Entrpreneur of the Year 2011 Olga Chouinard - Coffee Stain In 2002, Olga opened the doors of the Coffee Stain. Lorne Daigle, quickly joined her team and they have been a dynamic duo ever since. The Coffee Stain has a friendly, open concept where friends sit at the counter for a home-cooked meal. It’s an old-style diner where the décor on the wall is representative of Bathurst and the owners know its history. When asked to describe the Coffee Stain in three words, Olga mentions, “Good food, great environment and reasonably priced.
	Camillia Boudreau - MJ's Sports Bar - Chaleur Region Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2012 MJ's Sports Bar It was in 2008 that her dream of becoming a sole proprietor became a reality as she acquired MJ's Sports Bar located at 969, Principale Street in Beresford. From renovations to innovations, MJ’s Sports Bar became a multifunctional place that you want to discover. It’s the place to go to relax, to have a snack while you listen to sports and socialize or even to celebrate during group meetings and special events. Her 10 employees are courteous and professional and the place is luxurious and immaculate.
	Amanda Larocque - Young acheiver of the Year 2012 - Acadian Peninsula Amanda Larocque- Vertigo Coiffure et Esthétique The Acadian Peninsula CBDC, and its partners were honored to present the Award of Young Entrepreneur 2012 to Ms. Amanda Larocque, owner of the company ‘Vertigo Coiffure et Esthétique’ of Shippagan. Ms Larocque opened the doors of her hairdressing salon and aesthetics in 2001 and, over the years, she has built her clientele and an enviable reputation as well on the level of the hairstyle as aesthetics. Her success comes from her keen work and her perseverance. She also diversified her operations by offering a wide range of beauty products and the service of suntan. Ms Larocque is very proud of this award. She also received a value of 6,000 $ in prizes, made up mainly of products and services for her business.
Southwest
	Kara Hachey - Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2011 Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. Go-Go Getter Kara Hachey Is a Rising Star Kara’s ambition has led to countless awards and recognition. Being a certified gymnastics coach and one of UNB’s elite MBA students, is a combination that ignited the idea for Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. It began in her New Venture and Entrepreneurship class that challenges students to develop a business plan. She and three group members introduced the class to the dynamic “Go-Go Gymnastics” plan.
	Jen Estey is bringing art back to local schools Estey Creations Jennifer Estey is a young artist that is making waves in New Brunswick’s art scene with her new business. She is the owner of Estey Creations, offering fresh designs and fine art created by Jennifer herself.
	The Barking Lot: Heather MacLeod The Barking Lot When asked about the philosophy behind her business, Heather MacLeod - owner and operator of The Barking Lot - will tell you that to her, “a dog or cat is not just an animal, but a member of the family”.
	Creative Breeze Training Inc: Janice Butler Creative Breeze Training Inc Janice Butler was born in Paquetville, a small village located in Northern New Brunswick. From an early age, she developed a passion for the arts: dancing, figure skating and painting to name a few.
	Perfect Parties by Nancy: Nancy Curtis Perfect Parties by Nancy If you are looking to have an anniversary party, corporate event, a wedding and so much more, you can count on Nancy Curtis of Perfect Parties by Nancy to take the worry out of your special day and make it fun-filled.
	Nicole Henderson of Grooming Tails Pet Salon Believes Quality Service Comes First Grooming Tails Pet Salon Nicole Henderson is the owner and operator of Grooming Tails Pet Salon, located in Fredericton, N.B. As a Fredericton native, Nicole was exposed to entrepreneurship at an early age, as her father owned his own business.
	Shelley Janes: Animal Essentials Offers Local Feel and Flavour in Fredericton Animal Essentials “ A proud Saint John er”, Shelley Janes has a Bachelor of Business Administration from UNB SJ and is currently completing her Human Resources Management Certificate from UNB’s College of Extended Learning.
	Suzanne DeLong- Made You Blush Made You Blush Made You Blush-Making Women Look and Feel Their Best “Make-up was the only thing I knew,” says Suzanne DeLong, owner and operator of Made You Blush, a high-end cosmetic boutique. “When starting my business I thought-- even if I could get by, I would be happy.” Suzanne opened Made You Blush in her hometown of Woodstock with five product lines. “Opening a business with higher priced items do not always work in a small town so it took a few years for trust in what we were bringing in and to relay why it is that price.” Now Made You Blush has over 40 product lines and opened a second franchise location in Fredericton.
	Sarah Drummie - Your Invited-Invitations for All Occasions Your Invited-Invitations for All Occasions Your Invited Offers Invitations for All Occasions Your Invited-Invitations for All Occasions was formerly known as Sarah’s Sweet Delights. Owner Sarah Drummie relocated from Regent Street to the Tannery District in Fredericton to focus on her passion: selling wedding accessories and invitations which can be used for all occasions.
	Crystal Mulherin - What On Earth What On Earth Engaging Employees and Treating Everyone with Respect is a Winning Formula at What on Earth What on Earth captivates the consumer with custom-designed pieces, created by skilled Canadian jewelers and metalsmiths. With four locations in Fredericton, Dieppe, Halifax and Ottawa, this unique enterprise is on an amazing growth path. Crystal co-owns of What on Earth with her entrepreneurial husband Patrick. When the desire to be closer to their families pulled them to the Maritimes from Alberta, the dynamic duo launched What on Earth.
Northumberland
	Lori Smith of Smith CustomCAD: Making the Vision of Your Home a Reality Smith CustomCAD Building the home of your dreams can be an overwhelming process but Lori Smith, of Smith’s CustomCAD, located in Miramichi New Brunswick, makes this process a rewarding experience with her personalized approach and her expertise.
	Sherry Sturgeon, Genesis Salon & Spa Genesis Salon & Spa If you are seeking a tranquil oasis to escape the busy world surrounded by business meetings and Blackberry’s, make Genesis Salon & Spa, located in the Miramichi, New Brunswick your next destination.
	Dr. Tina Saulnier - Miramichi Hearing & Audiology Inc. Miramichi Hearing & Audiology Inc. Hearing loss is something most of us attribute happening to senior citizens, but just ask anyone who has suffered a nasty head cold and they’ll attest to the discomfort of experiencing diminished hearing capabilities.
	Lisa McCormack: Providing a Personalized Touch and a Significant Experience in the Miramichi Lisa McCormack Real Estate Sales “If you can find a passion to do something you love, you will never work a day in your life.” And this passion and drive is what motivates Lisa McCormack.
	Mavis Williamson, Brunswick Driver Training Ltd. Brunswick Driver Training Ltd. What is the biggest social element and right of passage for young adults? Getting their driver’s license, that is.
	Darlene Bamford ~ Always Serving The Homestead Inn & The Jam Shack "I take the time with each of my guests to give them personalized one on one service. It’s all about genuine service done with love and I genuinely love all my guests."
	Valerie O’Donnell ~ “Eco-Adventures Await” O’Donnell’s Cottages & Outdoor Expeditions First impressions are important and Valerie O’Donnell knows the value of putting her business’s best foot forward.
	Claudia Mutch ~ Helping People Meet Their Needs CHM Management Group They aren’t just about filling numbers or jobs ~ they’re about the individual looking for work and the companies that are trying to hire the right person.
	Helen Ward-Wakelin: “ Earth Friendly Growing” Craft 'n Grow Helen Ward-Wakelin has been dedicated to gardening for as long as she can remember. As an aboriginal person, caring for Mother Earth has always been a passion of hers. Combined with her desire to be self-sufficient and a commitment to bring sustainable economic growth and development to her community, Craft n’ Grow was realized in 2002.
	Rebecca Campbell ~ AFRO-CAN Inspired AFRO-CAN gifts and crafts Becky Campbell is an inspirational woman who has been in business her whole life – from selling rice and cobs of corn to survive in Sierra Leone, West Africa, to owning a specialized boutique in the Miramichi, New Brunswick, her story is one of perseverance, optimism and vision.
	Treena Richard - The Medicine Shoppe The Medicine Shoppe “When it Matters Most.” Treena Richards of the Medicine Shoppe Built an Award Winning Pharmacy in the Miramichi Treena Richard, owner of the Medicine Shoppe’s entrepreneurial spirit was ignited at an early age, with her parents owning a family business. Born and raised in the Miramichi, Treena left for six years to pursue pharmacy and quickly returned to her hometown upon the completion of her degree. She wanted to be self-employed and own a pharmacy that focused on the patient and not on selling products such as soda and tuna fish.
	Sherry Sturgeon – Genesis Salon and Spa - Female Entrepreneur of the Year 2011 – Mirimichi Region Genesis Salon and Spa Ten years ago Genesis Salon and Spa “A Place for New Beginnings” was a dream come true for Sherry. She was now able to provide all of the services loved by women under one roof. Over the past 10 years Sherry has grown from hairstyling and aesthetics to registered massage therapy and laser hair removal with a staff of 20 professionals filling the positions of 8 stylists, 8 aestheticians, 1 Registered Massage Therapist, and 3 receptionists.