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 Karen accepting the Manufacturing/Industrial Award and the Prestigious Award of Business Excellence. Ms. Matthews was also nominated for the 2003 Rotman Canadian Woman Entrepreneur of the Year Award. |
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 Karen Matthews, the owner and operator of “The Nortique”, is a phenomenal yet modest business woman. Born in rural Newfoundland she enjoyed the simple pleasures of sewing and designing whether with fabric, wool or crafts. Many became aware of her unique talent early. Within her early teens she designed her own clothing that had a uniqueness that later grew into one of her special coat designs. Through the support of her family and friends, she was determined and sought out putting her entrepreneurial skills to the test. Rural Newfoundland was one of her greatest inspirations enabling her to design beautiful clothing that was not accessible within her region. She then traveled throughout Canada, United States and Japan, where she had met with other designers who shared the same aspirations. Karen ambitiously popped on the business scene in 1989, when more & more people became interested in purchasing her “Unique Nortique” coat designs. Through Karen’s perseverance, her retail/wholesale business employs 13 individuals, maintains four storefronts, and Karen has expanded her business beyond her expectations. With her dedicated team of a professional seamstress, through their customized tailoring and Karen’s creative flare for design, they have brought forth the quality that you see when you purchase a Nortique Fashion. Her classic collection is now nationally obtained. Nortique designs are carried by Specialty Boutiques across Canada. Not only has she become an icon for women in business, she also stays true to her roots, as an ambassador for Newfoundland. Through Karen’s significant contributions within her community she always finds time to give back. She is a Director with Community Business Development Corporation, member on the board of Canadian Manufacturers for Apparel in Newfoundland, a member of NLOWE, member of the high school council, and a member of the Corner Brook Chamber of Commerce. She is committed to hiring students for summer employment to further their education, she provides on-the-job training for production sewing. Karen is also a very recognized, active member in the 4-H program and a leader for other youth groups in her community. If you ever
have the honor of meeting Karen, her enthusiastic, energetic personality is what
built her business, and you’ll recognize that she prides her business on being
manufactured and produced
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The difference between
looking good & looking....Great!
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