On April 25, 2019, I had the honour of being the Vancouver Island University (VIU) Design Grad keynote speaker. The grad show was named SHIFT, which really felt like a timely theme for me, since I’m shifting back into work … Continued
8 science-based tips from HR conference to improve productivity
I had the chance to attend our client CPHR BC & Yukon’s annual conference in May. I was really inspired by one of the main keynote speakers, Dr. Brynn Winegard, who spoke about how the brain works and how to … Continued
Mentorship is Essential
A couple weeks ago, I attended Vancouver Island University’s graduate design show, which got me thinking about mentorship. I think it’s important to make time to not only mentor others, but to also be mentored. One of my mentees graduated … Continued
Highlights of 2017
Before we sign off for our holiday break, we wanted to share our gratitude for a great year and all the good things that have happened at Backyard Creative over the last 12 months. 2017 is the year we focused … Continued
How to take a real vacation when you’re self-employed
I like to take a real vacation every year. I try to book one month off consecutively, usually in August. It’s the best month for hiking and camping locally, my husband is off work (he’s a teacher) and our clients … Continued
Madelen Ortega Makes Work Flow Easily at Backyard Creative
I’m happy to announce that my long-time collaborator and friend, Madelen Ortega, is taking on the ongoing role of Operations Director for Backyard Creative. Working from Edmonton, Madelen is leading all operations and refining our systems, processes and virtual collaboration … Continued
Meeting Elizabeth Gilbert at Conference
Over the years CPHR’s annual conference has had a wide variety of famous and inspiring speakers — but this years conference, Power Up, featured Elizabeth Gilbert. I have to say I am a fan of her work, and most recently, … Continued
A remote team of collaborative creatives
I feel very fortunate that when I moved to Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island nearly 4 years ago now, it didn’t really impact my business too much. I used to feel compelled to save up for a fancy office one day, … Continued
We’ve joined 1% for the planet
We wanted to show that we really are committed to supporting organizations who are working towards making the world a better place. By committing to become a member, we donate 1% of revenues to non-profits that are doing good in the … Continued
Pecha Kucha Nanaimo
In the midst of ramping up heading back to work after taking a mat leave, I was asked by a fellow collaborator, Jackie Kelly, to present at Pecha Kucha Night Nanaimo early in 2016. If you’ve not yet heard of Pecha … Continued