A new chapter for Waterlily Shoes!

A New Chapter for Waterlily Shoes – And for Me

This has truly been an amazing journey. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have a second career that I am every bit as passionate about as my lifelong work in animal welfare.

Just over four years ago, I took a leap of faith and purchased a beautiful ladies’ boutique shoe store in lovely Sidney, BC — Waterlily Shoes. I’ll admit that at 57, it felt a bit crazy (and completely terrifying at times!) to take such a big step into the world of retail. But what an incredible adventure it’s been!

I’m not new to being a business owner — I’ve been self-employed since I was 25, first as a dog trainer and later as the creator and facilitator of an employment training program for women incarcerated in the federal prison system. The program revolved around a dog training and boarding facility, where women learned employable skills while caring for animals. A lot of magic happened there!

From there, I moved into an Executive Director role at a large animal shelter. I loved the work and the amazing team I worked with, but as anyone in animal welfare knows, the work can be emotionally exhausting. I reached a point where I realized I needed to do something for myself — something that brought me joy and balance.

So, though it required a big investment and an even bigger leap of faith, buying Waterlily Shoes was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s been worth every penny and every moment of angst!

The Beginning of a Wonderful Friendship

When I purchased Waterlily from Christina in 2021, it felt like reconnecting with an old friend. We realized right away how much we had in common — our values, our sense of style, and our love for connecting with people. Christina did everything possible to make sure the transition went smoothly, and I will forever be grateful for her support and generosity.

I also want to acknowledge Sandy, the original creator of Waterlily Shoes (who I sadly never had the chance to meet), and Christina for building such a special store and entrusting it to me. To the Sidney and Saanich Peninsula community — thank you for the warm welcome, encouragement, and continued support. And to my incredible team, who share my love of shoes, fashion, and people — you make every day fun and inspiring.

Because of this journey, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working with so many wonderful, powerful, dynamic, confident, and supportive women — local business owners, colleagues, and customers — many of whom I’m now proud to call friends.

A New Adventure: Waterlily Shoes at Mattick’s Farm

I will always be grateful to Christina for the opportunity she gave me when I bought Waterlily Shoes more than four years ago — and now, for agreeing to be my partner as we open our second Waterlily Shoes location at Mattick’s Farm!

I can’t begin to express how proud (and perhaps still a little terrified!) but mostly EXCITED I am to embark on this new adventure together.

Here’s to friendships, new beginnings, and — of course — all things shoes and fashion!

With gratitude,
Jayne Nelson, Chief Shoe Addict
Waterlily Shoes 🌸