We wanted to share our recent interview with Dawn at HAVAN, (The Homebuilders Association Vancouver). We recently joined this year, and are in good company with our friends at Jamie Banfield Design and Vinyltek Windows to name a few.  HAVAN provides both industry and consumer education, and actively liaises with local municipal governments with the focus of meeting Metro Vancouver’s housing needs.  A not-for-profit association, HAVAN is proudly affiliated with both the provincial CHBA BC, and national CHBA offices.

 

Tell us about yourself & your company

I am the Co-Owner and General Manager of Long Life Windows & Doors. I took over the family business from my Dad 10 years ago. We are a local residential window and door replacement company that began in 1989. We pride ourselves on our customer service and expert industry knowledge, we believe home renovations should be a fun and enjoyable experience! Renovation tip: ask for neighbouring jobs the company has completed for reference, people love sharing their experience. 

 

What are your hobbies?

Exploring new hiking trails with my wife and our two dogs, spending weekend getaways at our property on Galiano Island in our tiny home which we built in 2018 for our wedding. I also love golfing, fishing as well as collecting wine and whiskey.

 

Proudest Moment

We were recognized as the #1 Window Dealer in North America for our community involvement which felt so nice to be able to give back and know that we are making a difference.  

 

What have you done in your community in the last year? [Highlight community involvement / connections – can be big or small]

I participated in the Sleepout Vancouver Entrepreneurs Edition with Covenant House to raise funds and awareness for at-risk and homeless youth in our city. I also serve on the board for Mission Possible and the Entrepreneur Organization taking part in the mentorship program for young up-and-comers. 

 

Last Piece of Advice you Received?

Never waste a crisis. Using this time to strengthen our internal processes, help the community and stay connected as a team. 

 

Favourite HAVAN event and why?

We have just recently joined HAVAN and since then everything has gone virtual, so far the event we have attended is the orientation which has already shown us how welcoming and effective this amazing association will be for us!

 

Last HAVAN member you spoke to?

Jamie Banfield from Banfield Design mostly just to tell eachother how much we think the one other rocks! 

 

It’s 11AM on Sat morning, what are you doing?

Most likely exploring the UBC endowment lands with my pregnant wife to tucker the dogs.

 

Does pineapple belong on a pizza?

Yes! But my go to has to be keeping it simple with the Margherita pizza- the Italians knew what they were doing. 

 

Share an interesting fact about your life / life experiences?

When I was a baby I sat in the Stanley Cup and filled up my diaper… it must have resembled the potty trainer..  

 

First concert?

Weird Al Yankovic at the PNE when I was 11. 

 

Starbucks / bar order?

Cold Foam Cascara for myself with two Puppuccinos to go for the dogs! / Hendricks and Soda with cucumber

 

Best work perk at your job?

That I can bring the dogs to the office

 

Favourite holiday / destination?

Christmas with a vacation in Maui 

 

Where were you born?

Edmonton

 

What inspires you?

My community around me – from family, friends, coworkers, organizations and other small businesses. 

 

Pets?

Two Rescue Dogs – Avery and Abby

 

Weakness? Come on, everyone has one?

Time Management

 

Song on repeat right now?

I’m loving listening to Podcasts, currently it is: How I Built This – Guy Raz

 

Don’t leave home without it (you’ve already got your phone, wallet, keys)

Airpods

 

Last book you read or movie/show you watched?

Last book was The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

 

Fun fact about you?

I love cooking – favourite meal to cook is Paella

 

What do you collect?

Aeroplan Miles

 

Most personal item on your desk?

The Amethyst stone from Burning Man

 

What are you excited for / looking forward to right now?

The birth of my first child, our baby girl is due next month!

 

Netflix guilty pleasure?

Tough choice between Brooklyn 99 or The Ranch

 

Anything else you’d like to add?

We are so thrilled to be a part of the HAVAN community and get to know everyone.