#Powerwives is a bi-monthly column where we feature women who inspire us. Marital status is completely irrelevant. The title is inspired by our founders November 2013 Toronto Life cover story. This week’s #powerwife is Alison Slight.
In a career spanning from Toronto to Dubai, Alison has planned, managed and executed multi-million dollar luxury events for a discerning clientele in the fashion, automotive, jewelry and private banking industry. She is half of the dynamic event planning duo CANDICE&ALISON Inc. and is the former General Manager of Dubai’s premier luxury event agency Platinum. Since founding her company in 2009 she has has worked with the world’s top brands and is know for creating upscale galas, weddings and the hottest launch parties in town.
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Name: Alison Slight
Title: Partner & Managing Director – CANDICE&ALISON INC.
Handles across social media: Website: www.candiceandalison.com, @candice_alison on instagram and Twitter, Facebook.com/
Who is in your tribe? (family members, friends, partners) My husband Ryan, Daughter Lola Bea, Pugs Dr. Dre and California and Business Partner and Partner in Crime Candice
What does a typical day look like for you? Early morning wake up with Lola to get her ready for “school”. Owning my own company affords me the luxury of spending time with her each mornings which is very important to me. I feel good when I am able to make her a good breakfast and send her happily off for the day. Then I’m off to my office where I spend the day doing what I love at CANDICE&ALISON. We get to plan the most beautiful events and amazing parties. It is truly a labour of love.
What’s in your clutch? Cell Phone, Eyeliner, Pink Lip Gloss, Credit Card, Mints.
Five things you can’t live without? Family, 5 Inch heels, Chanel watch, Cell Phone, Mascara.
Who is your hero? No one person in particular. I am fortunate to be inspired and driven by the many role models that surround me.
What are you reading? Mostly children’s stories to be honest! Lola is at a stage where she has discovered books and she can’t get enough.
How did you get your start? I left my job in the toy industry to follow my husband to Dubai where he had received a job offer. At the time the city was booming and there were lots of opportunities available. I knew I wanted to get back into Fashion as this is what I had studied years prior. After a few weeks of interviewing I was offered a position with Platinum UAE, a luxury event planning agency that was very active in runway shows for big European brands. Essentially I was thrown into a very high end fast paced environment and had no choice but to step up.
Tell us about a time you were challenged and you learned a lesson. Trying to navigate a new cultural landscape was difficult and interesting, particularly for a young Western woman in the Middle East. My transition back to Toronto was equally as challenging as was launching a luxury focused company in the midst of a recession. I learned to be fearless and confident in each scenario and that bravery is an essential element to entrepreneurship.
What inspires you? Beautiful people and beautiful things.
What are you excited about right now? After a landmark year where CANDICE&ALISON celebrated its 5 year anniversary, I am looking forward to spending the holidays with my friends and family before an exciting 2015.
How do you unwind? With a glass of wine in the evening hours once the house is quiet.
Personal mantra: Always be gracious. Hard work will get you everywhere
Advice for women trying to get to where you are: Find what it is that you truly love and be willing to make sacrifices to do it.
