A force to be reckoned with

Dawn Manning redefines what it means to be passionate

Proudly wearing her medal of bravery, Dawn Manning sits with her son, Simon Impey, whom she rescued from a cougar attack in 2009. —

Breanne Massey photo

Dawn Manning has a lot to be proud of, and thankful for. In 2008 she took ownership of  Bear Country Kitchen, a trendy store in Rossland that has been providing the community with classy kitchen items and other quality merchandise since 1993.

“I offer gourmet kitchenware . . . a bridal registry, complimentary gift wrapping and a local delivery service,” said Manning. “We (also) sell custom-made gift baskets, frozen yogurt, ice cream and smoothies.  I have been described as an independent Williams Sonoma.”

Bear Country Kitchen is known for carrying top brands such as Le Creuset, Cuisinart and Emile Henry, to name a few.

The company website gives an impressive overview. Manning has done her homework, and prides herself on the business’s reputation for exceptional service and good value with respect to price.

“I want local people to think of Bear Country Kitchen before driving across the border or to the Okanagan,” she said. “I want my customers to feel welcome to browse and request specialty items.  I want to know their names, interests and (for them to) always be greeted with a sincere welcome to my store.”

Manning has more under her belt than just a shining reputation as a business owner. In 2009, when out on a hike with her family, Manning single-handedly saved her then five-year-old son Simon Impey from a cougar attack. As a result of her courageous act, she was awarded a medal of bravery from the Governor General of Canada on April 20 of this year.