Calgary and area women share their stories and advice on working in the beverage industry

By Darren Oleksyn

Nathalie Gosselin, owner, Vine Styles

Originally from Montreal, Nathalie Gosselin earned a bachelor of business degree from the Université du Québec à Montréal. After graduation, she spent a year in Australia, developing a taste for wine.

Following her adventure Down Under, she moved to Alberta to work at the Banff Centre from 2004 to 2013, becoming manager of conference services. Her interest in wine continued to develop, leading her to enrol in courses through the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET). A connection with fellow student Darren Stewart eventually led to them opening a wine store, Vine Styles, in Calgary.

Gosselin bought out her business partner’s share in 2019 and now operates the Kensington store on her own. She says being a woman entrepreneur has been trying at times.

“Our culture doesn’t quite associate women with success in the business world, and the extra steps and efforts needed to get to an equal footing with a man as a business owner have been very trying and emotionally draining. 

“Most men will say something along the lines of, ‘Yes, it is tough for us as well.’ But the reality is they have no idea how much harder it is for women to get the same respect and trust. And it is not something that you can quantify or explain without being judged or being worried that people think you feel victimized. It is very conflicting, not wanting to be victimized, but also wanting to speak out so the situation can change for younger women coming in.”

What advice would you give to a young woman looking to enter the trade?

“Surround yourself with all the best women you know, and don’t hesitate to speak up, ask for help and believe in yourself. Always keep in mind that what you are struggling with, or going through, is probably being felt by a lot of other women.”

Favourite wine for around $30: Illimis, Grenache Noir, Wellington, South Africa, $35.

Favourite wine splurge: Jean Vesselle, Oeil de Perdrix, Champagne, France, $90.

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