Age: 35
Birthplace: Ottawa
Company: Morning Owl is a gourmet sandwich and coffee bar. We serve thousands of customers all over Ottawa every day.
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Esmee Bennison says she wasn’t sure what she wanted to do with her life back in Grade 11, when she enroled in a technological design class at uOttawa. She had
Education: Bachelor of commerce, Carleton University (2006)
Charitable involvement: Canadian Blood Services
Biggest biz achievement: In 2016, four Morning Owls opened as well as my new little baby, RAW, a juice and smoothie bar.
Biggest obstacle: Opening five stores in a one-year span was a tough go. It was very successful but definitely had its rough patches. It’s hard to be in five places at once.
Biggest influence: I have lots of influential people in my life, starting with my wife, who is my biggest fan. My parents never stop believing in me and I look up to my new partners every time we get together.
Biggest lesson learned: There is nothing more satisfying than working for yourself. My days are long, but seeing my business thrive keeps me fuelled. Mondays blend with Sundays.
First job: Bussing tables at a banquet hall. I was 13 and got paid under the table because I wasn’t legal age.
Advice I’d give the younger me: Remember that work-life balance is important.
What’s left to do: Family planning is looking like it’s in the near future. Same with more Owls and RAWs.
Favourite pastime: I like having morning coffee with my wife on the weekends.
I’m currently reading: I’m not a big reader. It requires too much stillness.
Favourite movie: The Boondock Saints
Favourite song: Birthday Song by Ben Lee
Favourite local pro sports team: Ottawa Senators
Favourite local summer event: Canada Day
Preferred social media platform: Instagram
