Whistler is more than a world-class destination for outdoor adventure—it is a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, driven by the women shaping its business community. From long-time locals to newcomers who chose to call Whistler home, those featured in this year’s International Women’s Day spotlight embody resilience, creativity and ambition.
Their contributions span industries including real estate, hospitality, retail, the arts and wellness, each leaving a distinct mark on Whistler’s economy. Beyond their own successes, these women are dedicated to mentorship, collaboration and leadership, creating space for the next generation of trailblazers.
Engel & Völkers Whistler
Carmyn Marcano, a dedicated Real Estate Advisor at Engel & Völkers Whistler, is setting new standards in Whistler’s real estate market. Voted Best Realtor in Whistler by Pique Newsmagazine in both 2023 and 2024, Marcano delivers personalized, stress-free real estate experiences with exceptional client care. Her business philosophy emphasizes authenticity, integrity and a proactive, hands-on approach, ensuring her clients’ interests are always her top priority.
With a natural entrepreneurial spirit, Marcano has successfully operated two local businesses, providing her with unique insights and deep connections within the community. Serving clients from Vancouver, across Canada and internationally, she possesses extensive knowledge of resort-town real estate, including zoning regulations, tax considerations and investment opportunities. She is fully engaged at every step, providing expert guidance to ensure her clients achieve the best possible outcomes in this competitive market. Marcano’s strong negotiation skills and carefully curated network of trusted professionals further enhance the exceptional service she offers.
As a board director for the Real Estate Association of Whistler and an active member of the Rotary Club of Whistler, Marcano stays informed on emerging industry trends and community initiatives, offering her clients a significant competitive advantage. Her thriving real estate practice is built on meaningful relationships, trust, and a belief in collaboration over competition, recognizing that her success is closely tied to the success of others.
Despite Canada's foreign buyer ban, Whistler and Pemberton remain exempt and continue to welcome international buyers seeking vacation homes or strategic investment properties. Carmyn Marcano, along with Engel & Völkers Whistler, expertly navigates these specialized markets, ensuring seamless transactions and rewarding outcomes for her valued clients. To learn more, visit www.carmynmarcano.com.
Whistler Housing Authority
Marla Zucht’s commitment to secure, affordable housing is shaped by her own experience. When she moved to Whistler in her early twenties, she struggled to find stable housing. This challenge, combined with a year of volunteering in Southeast Asia, deepened her understanding of how secure housing affects mental, physical, and financial well-being. Motivated by these experiences, Zucht became determined to help address the housing issues facing Whistler residents, a task that is especially important as Canada's housing system faces increasing strain coast-to-coast.
As the General Manager of the Whistler Housing Authority (WHA), Zucht brings a wealth of experience to her work, including protecting affordable housing through policy and legal covenants, as well as contributing to the development of new housing options.
Zucht finds the most fulfillment in knowing that her work directly contributes to Whistler’s community. Every time the WHA opens a new door for employee housing, she is reminded of the lasting impact her and her WHA team’s efforts have on the people and families who benefit from the security and stability that housing provides. Whistler now has almost 7,500 beds of affordable rental and ownership housing dedicated to those working in Whistler.
As a woman in business, Zucht has faced challenges, but her advice is clear: "Be bold, courageous and strong." She believes that being a changemaker is never easy, but it’s always worth the effort, especially when it creates positive change for the community. To learn more about Whistler Housing Authority, visit whistlerhousing.ca or send an email to [email protected].
Heike Designs
After immigrating to Canada in 1999 with the initial goal of ski instructing, Heike Stippler soon discovered her true calling in landscaping. As a proud local female business owner, Stippler has established herself as a leader in Whistler’s landscaping community.
A Red Seal-endorsed Landscape Horticulturist with a degree in architecture from Germany, Stippler’s dedication to quality and environmental stewardship shines through in every project she undertakes. Now celebrating 20 years in business, Heike Designs Inc. continues to thrive by working closely with clients to bring their unique visions to life.
With multiple industry accolades, including a Georgie award, Heike Designs Inc. specializes in design, installation, maintenance and consulting services tailored to Whistler’s distinctive landscape.
Stippler is highly dedicated to the local community, actively contributing through her roles on the boards of the BC Landscape and Nursery Association (BCLNA) and the Canadian Nursery and Landscape Association (CNLA). She collaborates closely with local contractors, suppliers and industry groups to foster strong relationships, support local businesses and champion eco-friendly practices. Her company uses largely electrified equipment and encourages Nature-based solutions, highlighting the benefits and importance of plants and Horticulture Best Practices.
As Heike Designs Inc. continues to care for gardens, clients and staff, the company is always looking for skilled professionals who share her passion for horticulture and the environment.
BlueShore Financial
Born and raised in Pemberton, Financial Advisor Kelsey Phare’s deep-rooted connection to her community gives her a unique perspective on the Sea-to-Sky lifestyle, which she leverages to help clients navigate their finances. As a Certified Financial Planner® (CFP®) at BlueShore Financial, Phare is dedicated to building strong, trust-based relationships and guiding locals through their financial journeys.
"I enjoy my role because it allows me to connect with Pemberton locals and directly contribute to their financial success," Phare shares. "It’s deeply fulfilling knowing I’m making a tangible difference in my clients’ lives." Her approach centers on offering personalized advice in areas such as retirement planning, investment management and mortgages, all designed to help clients make confident, informed decisions to help reach their goals.
Beyond her role at BlueShore Financial, Phare is actively involved in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce. This role helps her stay informed about local economic trends and ensures she is in tune with the distinct needs of her local clientele. Phare also serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Birken Recreation and Cultural Society.
With branches across the Lower Mainland and Sea-to-Sky Corridor, BlueShore Financial helps clients achieve financial wellness by offering tailored solutions and expert guidance in a distinctive and supportive environment.
For Phare, true fulfillment lies in knowing that her work supports local community members in building secure financial futures, enabling them to live with confidence and peace of mind.
Flashback Photobooth
Founded by Erica Ferri, Flashback Whistler offers premier photo booth rentals for weddings and corporate events and private parties. With a passion for hospitality and photography, Ferri has created a business that goes beyond capturing moments through a unique and unforgettable experience.
After moving to Whistler, she turned her love for photography into a business, she designed and built a custom wooden-style booth that complements the Sea to Sky region’s natural beauty. Using top-notch technology, Flashback Whistler provides studio-quality images, instant prints and guest engagement.
Ferri and her team work closely with clients to ensure the booth experience aligns perfectly with the event’s theme and vision. They are committed to providing a premium experience where every detail is thoughtfully curated, from personalized photo templates to backdrops that match the theme.
Event planners highly recognize the value of having Flashback Whistler’s photo booth at their events, as it fosters guest connection and leaves behind tangible memories of the occasion.
Don’t miss the opportunity to make your event unforgettable and cherished for years to come with Flashback Whistler, serving the beautiful locations of Whistler, Squamish, and Pemberton. Follow @flashbackwhistler on Instagram and Facebook to check out their stories and Behind-the-scenes moments. Learn more at www.flashbackwhistler.ca.
