In honour of International Women’s Day, we wanted to celebrate the remarkable achievements of local female entrepreneurs. Here is our interview with Stacey Davis, founder of LoveFresh – a Toronto-based luxury line of fun, all-natural, non-toxic and highly effective body care products – offering an “easy luxury” experience and natural beauty products that will keep your skin glowing.
1. How did you come up with the idea for your brand?
I was working a very humdrum job for the city of Toronto. My children were young and I was looking for something fun and exciting to challenge me. I found a course on the therapeutic benefits of essential oils and dove head first. A total game-changer.
2. What inspired you to become an entrepreneur? (What were your motivations or aspirations at the beginning?)
Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, it came somewhat easy for me. I knew that working for myself gave me the control to make every decision in my business. If I made a mistake, it was mine to make.
3. What impact would you like to have on people, other women, society in general?
Don’t shy away from trying. I really believe that the biggest regret is not giving it a shot. If you believe in something, give it 100% of your effort. If you love your career, you’ll never work a day in your life.
4. How do you manage work-life balance as an entrepreneur? (Do you have strategies for managing stress and preventing burnout?)
You have to give yourself a break… or you will burn out. I like to keep Sunday for myself and family. Sometimes that means just doing nothing.
5. Are there any women who have inspired you in your professional or personal life, and if so, why?
My mother. She had a very big heart yet had no trouble speaking her mind. She believed in complete honesty in every aspect of her life. Always choosing the high road, very inspiring to me.
6. As a woman entrepreneur, have you encountered any unique challenges? (This could be related to gender, stereotypes, or social and economic barriers).
I don’t think women are always given the same respect when it comes to being a business owner. It’s still so surprising for men to learn you have a very successful business. Things are definitely changing, but that mentality is still very prevalent.
7. What advice would you give to young women who want to start their own business but are hesitant due to fear of failure or perceived barriers?
If you don’t believe in yourself, nobody else will either. Learn as much about your craft as possible. Knowledge is power and never stop listening and learning. Success truly does not happen overnight.
8. How do you define success?
A balanced life while making an impact on others. A feeling of accomplishment and having a soft place to land in your personal life is the sweet spot.
9. Can you share a defining moment or success that you’re particularly proud of in your entrepreneurial journey?
I have something very exciting coming in late 2025 that I am bursting at the seams about.
10. If you could give one golden rule to an aspiring female entrepreneur, what would it be?
GO WITH YOUR GUT. I have trusted my gut for the last 17 years and I firmly believe by doing so, you create the business YOU want to create. It’s a powerful tool.