Today’s Notable Young Professional is Caitlyn Squires, who’s currently spreading the word about Toronto-based specialty tea specialists Tease Tea in New York City as the company’s PR manager. We caught up with her to find out why she fell in love with the world of tea and what advice she would share with other young professionals…
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WORK
Describe what you do in less than 140 characters. Go.
I am the Public Relations Manager and Tea Specialist for Tease Tea, maintaining media relationships throughout Toronto and hosting tea tastings all over the city.
What was the inspiration for your career route?
I was always fascinated by women on television who had powerful careers, where gorgeous suits and high heels seemed like part of the job. I was inspired by their intelligence, confidence and drive, and knew I wanted to be a woman in business one day. After working for a luxury hotel in downtown Toronto with the most extensive tea program in Canada, I realized I had an overwhelming passion for the world of tea and wanted to share that passion with the world.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career so far?
When I was asked to be the face of Tease Tea in New York City. There is no greater feeling of honour than to be presented with an opportunity to pursue your dream in a city that you love.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years?
Alongside my business partner, Sheena Brady, standing out front of a beautiful store with a sign that reads ‘Tease Tea’ and that feeling of #wedidit.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Opportunities are rare, so grab them full force when they present themselves because you never know where they will lead you.
Do you support any charities? If so. Which ones(s) and why is it (or they) important to you?
We work with a different women-driven organization every month. For October, we’re affiliated with the Women’s College Hospital (WCH), Canada’s leading academic, ambulatory hospital and a world leader in women’s health. They advance and advocate for the health of women and improve healthcare options for all by developing, researching, teaching and delivering new treatments and models of integrated care.
What does the word notable mean to you?
When I think of ‘notable’ I think of embracing individuality because who you are is what makes you successful – whatever your definition of success is.
PLAY
Where is your favourite place to wine/dine in your city and why?
416 Snack Bar. I could eat those oysters for days!
What’s the most visited website on your internet browser?
I would have to say YouTube. There’s nothing more comforting after a long hard day than to sit back and watch adorable animals doing hilarious things. Never fails to make me smile.
Who’s one person you think everyone should be following on social media?
Sophia Bush. Not only is she beautiful, successful and a downright cool woman, she is intelligent, stands up for what she believes in, and is not afraid to speak her mind. She is an inspiring woman in business and reminds me every day to be proud of who I am now, not strive to be someone I’m not.
What’s you favourite cocktail?
Hands down, our Skinny In The City Blueberry Cocktail! You can’t go wrong with muddled blueberries, vodka and delicious Yerba Mate.
What gives you the greatest FOMO?
Weekends. I have a lot of friends who are the traditional 9-5 and they love it. Me? I’m usually working hard on weekends when my friends are enjoying a night out on the town. It crosses my mind from time to time how nice it would be to be enjoying it with them! That being said, despite working equally hard in NYC, my hours will be a bit different so I’ll be able to experience what it’s like to have Friday/Saturday nights to myself for the first time in over 10 years.
What would be your last meal? And don’t hold back…
Old El Paso tacos topped with the works… just like mom used to make!
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
Eating bowls of croutons with Caesar salad dressing in bed. No lettuce, just croutons. So good.
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