Caitlyn Bellavance ~ Seamstress ~ Fernie, BC
1. What inspires, moves or drives you?
I have been fascinated with creating and tinkering since a young age. I enjoy taking things apart and seeing how they are made, and am thrilled by the process of construction and crafting. I am always in a happy space when I can create whether it is clothing, jewellery, painting, cooking or other art forms. I am passionate about creating authentic pieces and I take my inspiration from nature and connecting with the world.
2. What are a few of your favourite things?
I'm a little obsessed with pastels. Something deep inside me resonates so well with them. Anything iridescent/ holographic / sparkly also sparks a lot of joy in me. I love all animals. I have always been attracted to wolves as I respect their spirit. I am fortunate to live in a mountain community where the smells of the forest, rivers and vegetation surround me very day. Music is very much part of my world as well as cooking and baking. My guilty pleasure is fresh baked cookies!
3. What does an ideal world look like to you?
A world where everyone is kind and loving to one another. A world that is equal to all in terms of resources, education and health. A world where authentic, healthy food is easily available for everyone. A world that gives us access and knowledge of natural health and medicines.
4. What is your “offering”, creative or otherwise?
I love to create in multiple mediums (painting, drawing, crafting, DJ-ing, cooking, baking), however these days I am primarily focused on sewing. I run a sewing business in Fernie, British Columbia doing alterations and repairs to support my passion of making clothes. For now, I am only doing custom order one-off garments and collaborations when I am not doing repairs. I really enjoy the custom process because it allows me to make something unique and personal for my clients. I have also recently partnered with the amazing company @mutha_earth , a sustainable self- care and superfoods company. I am now able to offer their products at my studio and we have some exciting things in the works for the future.
5. How can we find your work or follow along with your journey?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caitlyntenovebellavance/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bella.v.co/
Website: www.bellavco.com
Email: caitlynbellavance11@gmail.com
Caitlyn Bellavance
BELLA.V Co.
Seamstress Services
P.O box 677
Fernie, BC V0B 1M0
6. What are your favourite quotes or words to live by?
“Ain't nothing but a thing.” My Mom would say this whenever I was facing a challenge. She would also say, "When someone shows you who they are, believe them!” As well as, "Is it kind? Is it true? Is it necessary?"
"Don't sweat the petty things , and don't pet the sweaty things."- My Dad
7. Who are your heros/heroines and how have they impacted your life?
My mom, for sure! Number one boss lady and the most amazing woman. She is my best friend and number one supporter and I would not be where I am today without her. She always said I would go to fashion school, and the rebellious teenager in me rejected that. After two years of dragging through a Bachelor degree in Fine Arts, her predictions came true and I ended up going to Fashion School and feeling instantly at home. (just one example of her intuitiveness and intellect). She's the most cool, calm and collected lady who also stands fierce for what she believes in. She raised my brothers and I to be grateful for what we have, never take more than you need, and always be kind.
8. How will you leave your mark on the world, both in terms of community and the environment?
I want to continue to do things to reduce my carbon footprint and make environmentally responsible choices. Be conscious of where I spend my money and acquire my resources. Make meaningful and loving relationships and spread light.
9. What advice would the present you share with the past you?
Don't be in a rush to grow up.
Take good care of your mind, body and spirit.
Listen to your mom.
10. What challenges have you overcome and how?
Being a one woman show is a challenge in itself as well as running a small business while trying to learn it all myself. But I've learned these things come with time, patience and practice. Stressing about things doesn't usually change the outcome so there's no point! Advice for the world right now would be: We are all in this together and we will come out stronger!