Who is Jess in one sentence?
Describing myself in one sentence is challenging because there is a lot to me but at my core, I am deeply passionate about leaving the world better than when I entered and I do that by being chaotically good. What does that mean? You’ll have to meet me to find out haha!
Where are you from, and how long have you been in Vancouver?
I was born in Vietnam, moved here when I was about 6 and have been here for the past 20 years.
What’s one food or drink spot in the city you keep going back to?
BAK’D Cookies, obviously!!! But if I can’t say that, Taqueria Playa Tropical never disappoints.
What are three things we’d find you doing on a Saturday?
Wandering a farmers market looking for local produce and yummy treats, having delicious dim sum with my family, or going up and down Commercial or Main to do some shopping, walking, talking, and eating!
What’s something you’re focused on or excited about in your life right now?
I am incredibly excited to learn how to enjoy life more and appreciate the little things. Last year was my first full year of owning a cookie cafe and I worked myself to the bone out of fear of failure. While I accomplished a lot, I also lost myself a bit, and this year is about enjoying my life without feeling guilty.
Someone in the city more people should know about?
Katty Wang. Business in Vancouver Forty under 40, Co-Chair of Vancouver Startup Week, and Director of National Operations for YELL where she introduces an entrepreneurial mindset to high school students. She played a huge role in inspiring my brother to become an entrepreneur which is how BAK’D got started.
If you could share a message with everyone in Vancouver, what would you say?
Vancouuuver - care, deeply. About what you’re building, about the people around you, and how you show up every day. The small things, the quiet things, the things no one sees, those are the things that actually matter.
Support local with intention. This is your community. There are real people behind every business, putting everything into it. When you find a place you love, go back, bring your friends, tell people about it, post about it. That kind of support means everything to someone on the other side.
And whatever you choose to do, don’t move through it half in.
Follow along with Jess and BAK’D on Instagram @x.jessn and @bakdcookies. And be sure to get a cookie the next time you’re in New West! 🍪
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