AVD INSPIRE with Aly Velji

Season 2 of AVD Inspire continues live from IDS Vancouver inside our custom recording booth by Bureau and this one’s a total glow-up! Aly sits down with Matthew McCormick, the brilliant mind behind Matthew McCormick Studio, to talk about all things light, creativity, and collaboration.Known for his sculptural lighting and quietly powerful presence in the global design scene, Matthew opens up about his creative process, career-defining moments, and what it really takes to make lighting unforgettable. This episode is packed with inspiration, humility, and design confessions that will change how you see the light. About Matthew McCormickHe is the Founder/Creative Director of Matthew McCormick Studio, an award-winning lighting design studio based in Vancouver. His sculptural creations explore the intersection of art, architecture, and engineering, bringing depth and emotion to the spaces they illuminate.Matthew’s work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Wallpaper, Azure, and Vogue Living. From intimate residences to international design exhibitions, his pieces reflect a refined sense of craftsmanship and curiosity that continues to shape modern lighting today.Connect with Matthew Website: https://www.matthewmccormick.caInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthew.mccormickSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsMASTERGRAINThe Canadian brand redefining modern living with premium fiberglass entry doors, available across North America.At MASTERGRAIN, we believe a door is more than just an entryway—that's why we're committed to building the best door on Earth. Born from precision tooling expertise, our journey began in 2008 when Weber Manufacturing Technologies in Midland, Ontario, set out to redefine what's possible in entryway design. Every door we create begins with craftsmanship and comes to life through a fully integrated manufacturing process—designed, engineered, and manufactured entirely in Canada.The result: architectural doors that combine material integrity, design freedom, and a seamless aesthetic worthy of the spaces they define.EXCLUSIVE PROMO for our AVD listeners! Get a FREE Tedee PRO Smart Lock when you purchase a MASTERGRAIN door system paired with a multipoint lock system (some T&Cs apply). Simply enter the promo code MGTEDEE in the product field when you place your order. All the promo details are included below: https://mastergrain.com/fall-dm-get-a-quote/Website : https://www.mastergrain.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mastergraindoors/INTERIOR DESIGN SHOWAs Canada’s premier showcase of new products, superstar designers, and avant-garde concepts from North America and beyond, IDS is the platform to experience the importance of design firsthand, uncovering not just what’s new and what’s next, but taking part in the larger conversation around design. Experiential and transformative, we bring together compelling concepts, innovative products, upcoming talent and key experts in the industry so you can be inspired by the best of the future.Website: https://interiordesignshow.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/idsvancouver/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/interior-design-show-ids-/BUREAUBureau is a furniture and design company specializing in workspace fit-outs and made-to-order furnishings. We believe that modern workspaces are decidedly unmodern, fixed on out-of-touch, catalogue cliché notions on what it means to make deep and meaningful work. Utilizing data and technology, we design spaces that flex and modulate to the ever-changing, often abstract needs and behaviours of its people, furnishing businesses with the tools they need to shape workspaces that work.Website: https://withbureau.com/ca/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bureau.globalLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bureauglobal/?originalSubdomain=ca

We’re keeping the Design Confessions rolling, recorded live from IDS Vancouver inside our custom recording booth by Bureau. Today I’m joined by the incredibly talented Ema Peter - an award-winning architectural and interior photographer whose images make you feel something.Ema’s work has that rare, emotional pull - the kind that stops you mid-scroll and makes you want to step right into space. We talk about the beauty of raw, honest work, the comeback of analog, and how to capture that spark that makes a photo unforgettable. From her early days at Magnum in Paris to shooting globally recognized projects, Ema’s philosophy is simple but powerful: create work that truly touches people.In this episode, we talk about:• Why raw work moves people and why imperfection can be magic• How to photograph spaces that tell a story and stop you in your tracks• The creative comeback of analog and tactile inspiration• The balance between art and marketing in architectural photography• The danger of overusing AI and keeping design real and human• Why details often speak louder than wide shots• Ema’s design confession — and what she refuses to do the “easy” way• How music, mood, and intuition shape every shootAbout Ema PeterEma Peter is the founder and creative director of Ema Peter Photography, based in Vancouver. Since launching her studio in 2005, she has become one of Canada’s most celebrated architectural photographers, known for capturing spaces with emotion, precision, and soul.Trained in both the visual arts and photojournalism - with experience at the Magnum Photo Agency in Paris - Ema brings over 20 years of expertise and an unrelenting passion for her craft. Her work has been recognized internationally, earning awards from Architizer A+, Dezeen, Spotlight, Créateur Design, and more.Connect with Ema Peter Instagram: @emaphotographi Website: emapeter.com LinkedIn: Ema PeterSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsEMTEKPersonal style lives in the details. For over 40 years, EMTEK’s has helped design lovers transform houses into homes with customizable door and cabinet hardware. Each moment is an opportunity to express your taste and invite others to experience your home as only you can imagine it. Assembled to order in California with short lead times, helping designers make each choice a statement: your statement.FREE Finish Ring for Designers! Visit https://www.emtek.com/finishring/ and use the Promo Code: AVDWebsite: emtek.comInstagram: @emtek_productsINTERIOR DESIGN SHOWAs Canada’s premier showcase of new products, superstar designers, and avant-garde concepts from North America and beyond, IDS is the platform to experience the importance of design firsthand, uncovering not just what’s new and what’s next, but taking part in the larger conversation around design. Experiential and transformative, we bring together compelling concepts, innovative products, upcoming talent and key experts in the industry so you can be inspired by the best of the future.Interior Design Show: https://interiordesignshow.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/idsvancouver/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/interior-design-show-ids-/BUREAUBureau is a furniture and design company specializing in workspace fit-outs and made-to-order furnishings. We believe that modern workspaces are decidedly unmodern, fixed on out-of-touch, catalogue cliché notions on what it means to make deep and meaningful work. Utilizing data and technology, we design spaces that flex and modulate to the ever-changing, often abstract needs and behaviours of its people, furnishing businesses with the tools they need to shape workspaces that work.Website: https://withbureau.com/ca/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bureau.globalLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bureauglobal/?originalSubdomain=caFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD Podcast:Instagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

Season 2 is here, design lovers! And I couldn’t be more excited to kick things off with someone who has been such a champion of my work and the Canadian design scene: Anicka Quin. She’s the VP of Content at Canada Wide Media and the powerhouse behind Western Living, Vancouver Magazine, BC Business, BC Living, and TV Week. Basically, she’s the woman keeping Western Canada on the design map — and doing it with serious style.Anicka and I go way back, and this chat feels full-circle. Usually she’s the one interviewing me, but this time the tables are turned. We dive into her unexpected path from music writer to magazine editor, the real secrets of what gets published (and what doesn’t), and of course her very first Design Confession. Spoiler: it involves rain showers and let’s just say…I know many of you can 100% relate!We also talk about the future of design, the rise of layered and lived-in spaces, and why AI can never replace the creativity, connection, and magic that real people bring to the process. Oh, and she shares her design heroes, favorite cities, and what’s on her playlist right now. (Yes, there’s a little George Michael love in there!)In this episode, we talk aboutAnicka’s journey from music journalism to award-winning magazine editor • What makes a home publish-worthy at Western Living • The design trend she secretly can’t stand • Why mentorship and happy accidents can change your career • How Canadian designers are shaking things up on a national stage • Timeless design, Paris cafés, and why George Michael always gets her on the dance floorAbout Anicka QuinAnicka Quin is VP of Content at Canada Wide Media, where she leads the editorial teams behind Western Living, Vancouver Magazine, BC Business, BC Living, and TV Week. Known for elevating Western Canada’s design scene to national recognition, Anicka has been at the helm of Western Living since 2010, guiding its legacy of celebrating architecture, interiors, and culture.Connect with Anicka & Western LivingInstagram: @aniquaWestern Living Magazine: westernliving.ca/subscribeSpecial Thanks to Our SponsorsROBINSON Lighting & BathBringing Homes to Life.ROBINSON Lighting & Bath is Canada’s largest retailer of lighting and plumbing. With 34 showroom and warehouse locations nationwide, they offer Canada’s best selection of design-forward lighting and bath products. Whether it’s a whole-home plan or the perfect statement piece, their design-savvy team helps bring every detail to life.Website: robinsonco.caInstagram: @RobinsonLtgBathFacebook: Robinson Lighting & BathInterior Design Show (IDS)As Canada’s premier showcase of new products, superstar designers, and avant-garde concepts from North America and beyond, IDS is the platform to experience the importance of design firsthand, uncovering not just what’s new and what’s next, but taking part in the larger conversation around design. Experiential and transformative, IDS brings together compelling concepts, innovative products, upcoming talent, and key experts in the industry to inspire with the best of the future.Website: interiordesignshow.comInstagram: @interiordesignshowLinkedIn: Interior Design ShowBureauBureau is a furniture and design company specializing in workspace fit-outs and made-to-order furnishings. We believe that modern workspaces are decidedly unmodern, fixed on out-of-touch, catalogue cliché notions of what it means to make deep and meaningful work. Utilizing data and technology, we design spaces that flex and modulate to the ever-changing, often abstract needs and behaviours of people, furnishing businesses with the tools they need to shape workspaces that work.Website: withbureau.com/caInstagram: @bureau.globalLinkedIn: ⁠@bureau.global⁠Follow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD PodcastInstagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

For our season finale of AVD Inspire, I’m joined by someone who’s not only curating Canada’s biggest design stage but also shaping where the industry is heading: Will Sorrell, National Director of the Interior Design Show (IDS).Will’s journey is a story of global vision meeting Canadian design. Raised in London by designer parents, he spent 20 years curating and producing exhibitions across 16 countries before making the leap to Canada. Today, he leads IDS Toronto and IDS Vancouver — reimagining what design shows can be and ensuring Canadian talent shines on an international stage.In this conversation, we dive into Will’s London-to-Victoria shift (from high-speed city life to paddleboarding the Pacific), how IDS is evolving to meet the needs of the trade, and the bold moves reshaping the future of IDS. And because you know I love a little spoiler — we're excited to share some exciting news: AVD Inspire Season 2 will be recorded live at IDS Vancouver this fall!In this episode, we talk about:Growing up in London with design in his DNAThe “Gucci to Gore-Tex” lifestyle shift to VictoriaWhat IDS does for Canadian makers, designers, and industryThe boldest changes Will has brought to IDS Toronto & VancouverCurating speakers and installations that elevate and inspireWhy design shows must stay trade-first to succeedA sneak peek into what to expect at IDS VancouverWill’s grounding rituals as a Dad, Creative, and Event LeaderAbout Will SorrellWill Sorrell is the National Director of the Interior Design Show (IDS). Over the last 20 years, Will has curated and produced events and exhibitions across 16 different countries, supporting the global design industry and celebrating innovation. Formerly with London’s acclaimed Design Junction (winner of Best UK Tradeshow, 2018), he now leads IDS Toronto and IDS Vancouver, shaping the conversations and connections that define Canadian design today.Connect with IDS & Will SorrellInterior Design Show (IDS): https://interiordesignshow.com/Instagram (IDS): https://www.instagram.com/interiordesignshow/LinkedIn (IDS): https://www.linkedin.com/company/interior-design-show/Instagram (Will Sorrell): https://www.instagram.com/willsorrell/LinkedIn (Will Sorrell): LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-sorrell-22b2601b/Special Thanks to Our SponsorsROBINSON Lighting & BathBringing Homes to Life.ROBINSON Lighting & Bath is Canada’s largest retailer of lighting and plumbing. Operating from 34 showroom and warehouse locations, we offer a wide selection of the industry’s best brands to design-conscious homeowners, designers and trades in Canada.Website: https://www.robinsonco.ca/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinsonltgbath/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robinsonltgbath/Western Living MagazineA huge thank you to our media sponsor, Western Living Magazine.Get your free subscription: https://www.westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow: https://www.instagram.com/westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD Podcast:Instagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

This week on AVD Inspire, I’m joined by the brilliant Laura Noriega — Founder and Creative Director of TRIBUTO, a design brand that celebrates Mexico’s cultural heritage through timeless, handmade objects.Laura’s story is all about leaving, returning, and rediscovering her creative roots. She studied and worked in Barcelona, Milan, and even Kyoto — chasing inspiration all over the world. But when she returned to Guadalajara, she found her true calling: reconnecting with her culture and championing the artisans who keep traditional craft alive.Together with her sister, Laura built TRIBUTO into a brand that’s as much about people and poetry as it is about products. But what really lights Laura up is community, collaboration, and proving that craft is not a thing of the past — it’s the future.In this episode, we talk about:– Laura’s journey from studying abroad to returning home to Guadalajara– How her friend’s simple drawing shifted the entire course of her life– Founding TRIBUTO with her sister and why family makes the best creative partners– Why Mexico’s artisans and workshops are having a global design moment– The challenges (and beauty) of weaving tradition into contemporary design– Measuring real impact and what it means to uplift communities through craft– Guadalajara’s rise as a design destination (and why you need to visit!)– Laura’s rituals that keep her grounded...literally! About Laura NoriegaLaura Noriega is a Mexican designer, thinker, and collaborator with a background in Product Design and Interior Architecture. She is the Founder and Creative Director of TRIBUTO, the brand she launched with her sister to design and produce handmade objects rooted in cultural heritage and traditional local production.Her work has been celebrated globally — from Architectural Digest México’s AD100 Creative Gurus to PHAIDON’s Designed for Life: The World’s Best Product Designers and Salone Satellite: 20 Years of Creativity. Beyond beautiful objects, Laura is passionate about teaching, leading workshops, and creating processes that spark dialogue between contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship.Connect with Laura & TRIBUTOWant more of Laura’s world of culture, craft, and creative collaboration? Follow her here:Website: tributo.mxInstagram: @tributomx | @laura_noriegaFacebook: TRIBUTOLinkedIn: TRIBUTO MéxicoSpecial Thanks to Our Sponsor — Centura TileFrom coast to coast for you! For over 96 years, Centura Tile has brought Canadians the very best in wall and floor coverings—offering innovative, carefully curated products, bespoke solutions, and expert guidance from concept to creation. With 13 branches nationwide, our reliable, friendly service and deep technical expertise help turn every design vision into a one-of-a-kind interior.Website: centura.caInstagram: @centuratileMedia Sponsor: Western Living Magazine A huge thank you to our media sponsor, Western Living Magazine.Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD Podcast:Instagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

This week on AVD Inspire, I’m joined by the inspiring and grounded TJ Edmondson — President & Owner of Windsor Workshop and Co-Founder of Local Made Market. His story is a masterclass in following your gut, taking the leap, and building a life with your hands, your heart, and a whole lot of sawdust.TJ’s journey began in the world of management consulting, racking up hotel loyalty points and living out of airport lounges. But when the pandemic hit, he swapped boardrooms for the woodshop, taking over one of North America’s most iconic furniture makers and carrying forward its legacy of handcrafted Windsor chairs.His work has been featured in Country Living Magazine, House & Home, Style at Home, The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Muskoka Life, Parks Canada, and Kabin Magazine — but beyond the press, it’s his commitment to preserving fine woodworking in Canada, mentoring the next generation of makers, and collaborating with other artisans that makes this conversation so special.In this heart-to-heart filled with craft, community, and real talk, we get into:– The leap from a secure corporate career to owning a heritage woodworking business– How TJ found Windsor Workshop (yes, it involves a “business for sale” listing)– Keeping 300-year-old joinery techniques alive in a modern market– The realities of manufacturing high-quality furniture in Canada– Building community among makers and why collaboration beats competition– Launching Local Made Market and celebrating Canadian craftsmanship– Balancing tradition with innovation to reach new audiences– TJ’s personal grounding rituals (spoiler: sawdust and yoga)Whether you’re a maker, a dreamer, or someone craving the courage to rewrite your story, this episode will remind you that your “one day” can start the moment you decide to build it.Connect with TJ EdmondsonWant more of TJ’s world of craftsmanship, collaboration, and Canadian-made design? Follow him here:Website: windsorworkshop.com | localmademkt.comInstagram: @windsor_workshop | @localmademktYouTube: @TheCanadianChairmanFacebook: The Windsor Workshop Canada | Local Made MarketLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjedmondson/Sponsored by Lux Windows Lux Windows and Doors offers a complete line of Canadian crafted windows and doors designed to meet the highest standards of durability, reliability, and aesthetic appeal. We continually strive to manufacture the best windows and doors possible, and service our clients with unparalleled care and commitment to quality. Crafted specifically for your home and style, every window and door bears our hallmark attention to detail.Brand Website: luxwindows.comBrand LinkedIn: Lux Windows & GlassBrand IG: @luxwindowsBrand YouTube: Lux Windows ChannelMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thank you to our media sponsor, Western Living Magazine.Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD PodcastInstagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

This week on AVD Inspire, Aly sits down with lighting designer and creative entrepreneur Kate MacNeill, founder of Concord Custom Lighting — the all-female Canadian studio known for crafting bespoke light fixtures for luxury residential and high-end hospitality interiors.In this episode, we dive into:How Kate built a women-led lighting design studio from scratchThe behind-the-scenes process of custom lighting manufacturingHow to turn a design vision into a functional, code-compliant productWhat it really takes to thrive as a female founder in the design industryHow to overcome imposter syndrome and trust your creative instinctsKate opens up about leaving behind a commerce degree and stepping into the world of industrial design, fabrication, and creative business ownership. Her lighting work has been featured in Architectural Digest, House & Home, The Globe and Mail, Dezeen, and The Local Project (Australia) — and we get into the raw, real moments that shaped her journey.Plus, we chat about our recent commercial design collab, why Canadian-made design matters, and the beauty of building a brand that empowers creativity, collaboration, and craftsmanship.“Sometimes you just need to take the leap… because the pain of living out of alignment becomes too heavy to carry.”Connect with Kate MacNeill & Concord Custom LightingWebsite: thisisconcord.comInstagram: @concordlightsPresented in Partnership With Napoleon FireplacesNapoleon Fireplaces, a Canadian owned and operated manufacturer, combines smart design with standout style, offering gas and electric fireplaces in a wide range of sizes, styles, and price points. Built for easy installation and long-term performance, their innovative portfolio gives designers flexible, customizable options for any space, from traditional to contemporary and everything in between.Website: napoleon.comInstagram: @napoleonfireplaceFacebook: Napoleon ProductsMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thank you to our media sponsor, Western Living Magazine.Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD Podcast:Instagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

This week on AVD Inspire, I’m sitting down with one of my oldest (and most fabulous) friends — Stanley Sun, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Mason Studio.Before he was designing hotels, restaurants, exhibitions, and retail spaces around the world, Stanley was deep in the world of neuroscience. That’s right…he almost became a doctor! But thankfully for all of us, he followed his heart (and his talent) straight into the world of design.In this episode, we’re talking about what it really means to bring your whole self into your creative work — your background, your culture, your quirks, all of it. Stanley opens up about discovering your true identity, working with intention, and how community-building is at the center of everything Mason Studio does.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Stanley went from lab research to luxury interiorsThe connection between science, creativity, and emotionThe wild story behind talking to industry pros at a spa…in bathing suitsEmbracing culture and queerness as creative superpowersWhy Mason Studio is more than a design firm — it’s a movementThe power of space to ground, heal, and connect us.Connect with Stanley & Mason Studio:Website: masonstudio.comInstagram: @masonstudioPresented in Partnership With:BRIZO® – Fashion Forward. Lifestyle Focused.BRIZO® is a luxury fittings brand for people who understand that fashion isn’t just about the clothes they wear—but their entire lifestyle. The high-end brand has a strong emphasis on refined style, design and trend, with a large variety of finishes and customization options. Full artistic collections that tell a story.Get inspired and explore: brizofaucet.caSubscribe for design inspiration: brizofaucet.ca/newsletter@brizofaucet | Pinterest | FacebookMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thank you to our media sponsor, Western Living Magazine.Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD Podcast:Instagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com

This week on AVD Inspire, Aly Velji sits down with Jonathan Sotto — Director of Business Development at the Global Creative Design Studio Yabu Pushelberg — for a conversation that’s equal parts style, soul, and show-stopping resilience.From cold-calling firms straight out of school to now leading business across Asia and the Americas, Jonathan shares the behind-the-scenes story of how grit, good timing, and knowing when to pivot shaped his two-decade journey in the world of design. The two dive into everything from imposter syndrome to the importance of feedback, what it's like to make bold career decisions, and why giving back to yourself matters just as much as giving your all.Also on the table? RuPaul’s Drag Race, Beyoncé and how childhood experiences totally shape who you are todayWhether you’re in design or just designing your life, this one’s for you.What We Cover:The Beyoncé tee moment and a designer friendship born in VegasGrowing up Filipino and dreaming of overcoming stereotypesDiscovering design through Lego, grid paper, and career pivotsCold-calling firms in 2005 — and the hustle before LinkedInFacing rejection and finally landing a job at Yabu PushelbergLeaving a dream job to move abroad and grow personallyWhat it means to “promote” design instead of “doing” designNavigating imposter syndrome and finding your voiceThe art of feedback (and not taking things personally)Travel, connection, and why giving back to yourself really mattersAbout Jonathan Sotto:By day, he’s pushing boundaries as the Director of Business Development at Yabu Pushelberg. By night? He's a Karaoke king and full-time Drag Race aficionado. With over 20 years of creative experience in interior design and building relationships with people, Jonathan brings equal parts heart and hustle to everything he does.Instagram: @yesitsjonathanLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jonathansottoSpecial Thanks to Our Partner:ROBINSON Lighting & Bath — Bringing Homes to Life.ROBINSON Lighting & Bath is Canada’s largest retailer of lighting and plumbing. Operating from 34 showroom and warehouse locations, we offer a wide selection of the industry’s best brands to design-conscious homeowners, designers and trades in Canada.Follow on Instagram: @robinsonltgbathFollow on Facebook: ROBINSON Lighting & BathMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thanks to our Media Sponsor, Western Living Magazine!Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow on Instagram: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/designs_avYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlykhanVeljiDesigns/podcastsWebsite: https://www.alyveljidesigns.com

What happens when you step away from something safe to pursue something soulful? In this inspiring episode of AVD Inspire, Aly Velji sits down with Toronto-based contemporary artist Murray Duncan to talk about creativity, courage, and the choice to start again—this time with purpose.After years of running his beloved retail store Hardware in Toronto, Canada, Murray followed an inner pull toward art. That leap turned into a career rooted in storytelling, emotion, and deep personal alignment. His work often described as an emotional visual diary—has now been featured in top publications and homes across North America.From his upcoming paperwork collection to collaborations with leading designers and galleries, Murray shares the mindset shift that made it all possible, and the unexpected joy of building a life that finally feels like home.In This Episode:Murray’s journey from retail entrepreneur to full-time working artistHow vulnerability became his most powerful creative toolWorking with designers and architects to tell visual stories through artHis upcoming paperwork collection and what it representsThe shift that happened when he started creating from alignmentWhy leaving something good is sometimes the only way to find something greatConnect with Murray Duncan:Website: murrayduncanstudio.comInstagram: @murray_duncan_studioSPONSORED BY: Divine FlooringDivine Flooring is a design-forward flooring brand known for curating premium surfaces that elevate spaces with style and soul. From luxury hardwood to innovative vinyl, they partner with designers, builders, and homeowners to craft interiors that leave a lasting impression.Aly’s own home features Divine Flooring’s “Cosmopolitan Naked” hardwood in a stunning chevron pattern—because real transformation starts from the ground up.Explore more at divinefloor.comFollow on Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/divineflooring/⁠MEDIA SPONSOR: Western Living MagazineA huge thanks to our Media Sponsor, Western Living Magazine!Get your free subscription at⁠ westernliving.ca/subscribe⁠Follow on Instagram:⁠ @westernliving⁠Follow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD Podcast Instagram: @designs_av YouTube: Aly Velji Designs Podcasts Website: alyveljidesigns.com

What is style, really? In this vibrant, heartfelt and hilarious conversation, Aly Velji sits down with legendary stylist and creative force Peter Papapetrou to talk about how fashion, identity, and creativity evolve across decades, cities, and life chapters.From the basement fashion shows of his youth to styling for The Marilyn Denis Show and working with couture houses like Giambattista Valli, Peter opens up about the hustle and the joy behind his colorful career.Now splitting his time between Toronto and Miami, Peter shares how marriage, moving abroad, vintage fashion in Amsterdam, and reconnecting with silence reshaped his creative vision—and why he’s finally turning the lens on himself.In This Episode:Peter’s incredible journey including his humble beginnings as a kid to becoming a Canadian style iconFashion vs. Style: The soul of how we show upHis favourite memories from being on The Marilyn Denis ShowVintage shopping in Amsterdam & rediscovering personal styleWhat TV taught him about storytelling, humility, and impactGrounding rituals, creative freedom, and what’s nextConnect with Peter Papapetrou:Website: plutinogroup.comInstagram: @peterpapapetrou1TikTok: @peterpapapetrouSPONSORED BY: TONIC LIVINGCreate a home that’s as stylish and soulful as Peter’s wardrobe.Tonic Living offers high-quality, handcrafted home textiles—for upholstery, window treatments and accessories plus a robust collection of decorative throw pillows—designed and handcrafted in Toronto headquarters (made in Canada).Use code AVTONIC15 for 15% off site-wide: tonicliving.comMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thanks to our Media Sponsor, Western Living Magazine! Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow on Instagram: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/designs_avYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlykhanVeljiDesigns/podcastsWebsite: https://www.alyveljidesigns.com

To launch the AVD INSPIRE Podcast, Aly Velji sits down with none other than Canadian media legend Marilyn Denis — in a heartfelt, full-circle moment that’s as personal as it is powerful.From her 49-year reign across Canadian radio and television to her timeless wisdom on reinvention, legacy, and self-worth, Marilyn opens up like never before. The two dive into everything from therapy and personal check-ins to career pivots, iconic interviews, and their shared Calgary connection — with a few surprises along the way (Stevie Nicks, Beyoncé, and a very memorable birch tree wallpaper).Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering the magic of Marilyn Denis, this warm, funny, and deeply inspiring conversation will leave you feeling like you just had breakfast with your bestie. Follow Marilyn Denis Stay connected and tune in to The Marilyn Denis Show on CHUM 104.5 (iHeartRadio): Listen live: https://www.iheartradio.ca/chum Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marilyndenis Website: https://www.marilyndenis.caPresented in Partnership With:Bow Valley CollegeCelebrating 60 years as Calgary's largest downtown post-secondary campus. We are a catalyst for change through our students and graduates.Learn more about the City Maker campaign: inspire.bowvalleycollege.ca/city-maker Website: https://bowvalleycollege.ca LinkedIn: Bow Valley College on LinkedIn Instagram: @bowvalleyMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thanks to our Media Sponsor, Western Living Magazine! Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow on Instagram: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/designs_avYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlykhanVeljiDesigns/podcastsWebsite: https://www.alyveljidesigns.com

This is where creativity gets lit.Interior designer and creative director Aly Velji invites you into the vibrant, real, and sometimes messy world of artistry, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.In this AVD Inspire teaser, Aly shares what sparked this passion project, what’s in store for Season One, and why launching this podcast on his birthday (June 24th) means more than ever.Whether you're in a creative funk, plotting your next big pivot, or just craving real talk with purpose-driven people — this podcast is your new go-to.Expect intimate convos with Aly’s closest friends and creative muses — artists, makers, and icons who are making bold moves, navigating real-life ups and downs, and sharing the rituals that keep them grounded.Hit SUBSCRIBE and get ready to be inspired. Official launch drops June 24th.Want to know about Interior Designer Aly Velji? Click here to discover his award-winning Calgary design firm.

This week on AVD Inspire, I’m joined by the brilliant and bold Simone Elizabeth Saunders, one of Canada’s most celebrated contemporary textile artists. Her hand-tufted portraits are more than art — they’re powerful statements rooted in Black womanhood, visual storytelling, and ancestral connection.Simone's rise from a decade-long career in theatre to becoming a globally recognized fiber artist is nothing short of inspiring. Her work has been exhibited in major galleries from Toronto to Miami, featured in Forbes, CBC, and Colossal, and now lives inside her stunning new book, Encompass the Galaxy.In this heart-to-heart full of vibes and real talk, we talk about:– The transition from performing arts to contemporary textile art– Centering Black identity, feminine strength, and history in visual work– Tufting, punch needle, and the tactile power of fiber-based storytelling– How Simone curated Noir Nouveau for Contemporary Calgary’s LOOK Gala– Trusting your voice (even when the world doesn’t get it yet)– Creative rituals, spiritual practice, and the role of ancestral wisdom in her art– The reality of being a Black female artist navigating today’s art worldWhether you're an artist, a dreamer, or someone seeking creative courage, this episode will remind you that your story is your superpower — and that art is a revolutionary act.Connect with Simone Elizabeth SaundersWant more of Simone’s vibrant, powerful world? Follow her here:Website: simoneelizabethsaunders.comInstagram: @simoneelizabethsaundersYouTube: Simone Elizabeth SaundersSponsored by Bow Valley CollegeBow Valley College is Calgary's College. In 2025, we are celebrating 60 years of launching professional journeys and providing students with opportunities to advance and evolve their careers. As Calgary's largest downtown post-secondary campus, we are a catalyst for change through our students and graduates.Website: bowvalleycollege.caInstagram : @bowvalleyLinkedin : Bow Valley College on LinkedInMedia Sponsor: Western Living MagazineA huge thank you to our media sponsor, Western Living Magazine.Get your free subscription at westernliving.ca/subscribeFollow: @westernlivingFollow Aly Velji Designs & the AVD PodcastInstagram: @designs_avYouTube: Aly Velji Designs PodcastsWebsite: alyveljidesigns.com