From Shayla's Desk: June 2025

Jun 6

Welcome back to our monthly check-in! As we officially step into summer, we’ve been celebrating everything from personal celebrations, major project milestones, to that satisfying feeling of watching spaces fully come to life. Here’s what's been happening behind the scenes:

My Personal Journey

32 and Thriving
I rang in my 32nd birthday with the most perfect solo lunch at Restoration Hardware - caesar shrimp salad and a crisp Diet Coke hit the spot. The weekend celebrations continued with girlfriends over dinner, a Jaybird class, and a wine flight at the new Grape Witches in the Waterworks Food Hall. The best birthdays are the ones that are simple, low pressure and, for me, filled with endless conversation with girlfriends<3.

Celebrating My Dad's Milestone
We honoured my dad's 70th birthday at the cottage, where my mom, sister-in-law and I teamed up on the decor and planning. We were hit with unseasonably cold weather forcing a last-minute venue change to inside the lower boathouse, but we made it work and it turned out beautifully. I have 3 little nieces who love to run a muck so keeping this party at the cottage allowed everyone to be present and enjoy themselves!

Boathouse Demo Complete
The emotional and physical demolition of our century-old boathouse is officially behind us! Watching decades of family memories get carefully packed away was bittersweet, but we're ready for the next chapter: the rebuild.

Self-Made Breakfast Tour
I attended the Self-Made Breakfast Tour event, which provided incredible insights and inspiration from fellow entrepreneurs. These connections and conversations always fuel my passion for what we're building at Warm Welcome. Not to mention the catered lunch was from Food Dudes (who was my wedding caterer) - the rasa salad hit so good.

Project Update Highlights

Burlington Dental Office: Clean and Contemporary
We completed our presentation for a dental office opting for a clean, fresh, contemporary aesthetic. Vivian handled the client meeting, using renderings and physical samples to help them visualize the transformation. It's exciting to expand our commercial portfolio with spaces that prioritize both function and wellness.

The 11-Month Wait is Over
The custom-cut rug we ordered from Elte nearly a year ago has finally arrived! Hand-knotted in a custom mauve shade, this luxurious piece perfectly grounds the space and was absolutely worth the wait.

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Project Bronte Poolhouse: Summer Ready
Lights, millwork, and stone are installed! This poolhouse is so close to welcoming its first summer guests. Next up: custom sectional installation and furniture placement to complete the transformation. We're particularly excited about the Slim Aarons print we're having framed for the main space—it's going to be perfect.

Baby Point Bathroom: Almost There
Our bathroom renovation is nearing the finish line. The tile installation looks absolutely incredible, and the vanity plus finishing touches will be installed over the next two weeks. This project holds special meaning because the couple bought their house without a bathtub, and they needed this renovation so their little one could enjoy proper bath time. We're thrilled to have made this essential family need a reality.

Project East York: The Final Countdown
Just seven days until our clients move back into their completely transformed home! Vivian and I are laser-focused on tying up loose ends: counters, fixtures, and appliances all need to be functioning before move-in. Wait until you see their range - it's an absolute jaw-on-the-floor moment that will anchor the entire kitchen.