LISA WHYNOTT was just 15 years old when she fell in love with, well, love.
Originally from the United Kingdom, Whynott has been immersed in the wedding industry for decades. More than 20 years ago, she launched her own wedding-planning company, Everlasting Impressions, and later brought her business to Airdrie.
“There are a lot of differences between wedding traditions in the U.K. and Canada,” Whynott says.
“I had to rebuild my business from scratch here, so it took lots of research, finding new connections and recommended vendors. What’s kept me going are good couples, kindness, honesty and staying above the drama.”
Whynott’s generous spirit extends to her clients and the community. For couples on a tight budget, she offers free advice and access to her vast inventory of wedding décor. She also mentors aspiring wedding planners, offering them hands-on experience in the business.
“Hopefully, they either stay with me or start their own wedding-planning company,” Whynott says.
“I teach them the behind-the-scenes essentials, like budgeting and vendor relationships. It’s not all glamour — it can be 100-hour workweeks.”
Nominator and Whynott’s daughter, Katie Jones, admires her mother’s dedication.
“Mum is a one-of-a-kind person,” says Jones. “She leads with patience, teaches with kindness and makes every couple feel like family. She’s my superhero, and I love the example she sets.”