The delightful Shannon Heth is a storyteller. She brings her clients’ news and developments to the public with grace and class. Heth PR, her boutique firm, was started but two years ago, and since has worked with some very notable people and companies. Find out more in today’s YEDaily feature.
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
Heth PR is a boutique public relations firm with roots in food, wine, art and design; all of life’s greatest things!
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
I’ve always loved storytelling and writing. For me PR is about having some of the best stories that people might not otherwise hear about made public. It’s thrilling to see a story run, and to know that I had some part to play in that.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I love meeting new people, whether it’s a visiting journalist, an up-and-coming designer, or someone looking to break into the industry. The most challenging part is juggling all of the responsibilities I have as a business owner, media liaison, and client consultant. Often there just aren’t enough hours in the day.
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
I’d love to expand eastward to Toronto or Montreal. Someone that I used to work for once told me that he wasn’t interested in growing his business. That kind of thinking was crazy to me. I want to be everywhere!
What does success look like to you?
I think the hardest thing for a young entrepreneur is finding balance between work and life. You need to understand that even though you run a business, you are not just what you do. Reward yourself and your success by taking a time out.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
I was lucky enough to work directly with actor, winery owner, and all around amazing gentleman Sam Neill last year as part of his participation in the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival. He was so fun and down to earth – plus his Two Paddocks wines are brilliant.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
One of the things I admire most in a person is fearless ambition. If you have an idea, I want to hear it. Don’t worry about what I might think. Sometimes the best ideas are the ones you’re most afraid of sharing.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
We’ll be supporting Hope in Shadows this year. As someone who works blocks from the Downtown Eastside, I see firsthand the poverty and struggle people face everyday in this area. The annual Hope in Shadows photography contest gives Downtown Eastside residents a creative voice and helps to empower, educate and provide employment training to low income people in the neighbourhood.
What is Notable to you?
Ambition, kindness, and a sense of adventure.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone. Today, tomorrow, always.