Which annual event do you look forward to every year ? PARK - Promoting Artists , Redefining Kulture is an annual fashion show that takes place at various unassuming locations that are oftentimes industrial . The event reminds me of when I lived in New York . I also love the Calgary Folk Music Festival that takes place annually in July in Prince ’ s Island Park .

Where ’ s the best place in Calgary for live entertainment ? The Jack Singer Concert Hall is beautiful for all kinds of musical performances . The Oak Tree Tavern is a casual and fun environment that showcases local bands The Dudes , and the Sadlier-Brown Band .

Where are your favourite places to shop ? Each neighbourhood offers unique boutiques that I love to frequent . I love Kensington ’ s Splash of Fashion , Purr and Kismet ; Mission ’ s Coco and Violet ; Britannia ’ s Ginger Laurier ; Inglewood ’ s Lauren Bagliore , Espy and Cody & Sioux ; Mount Royal Village ’ s Bamboo Ballroom and Kate Hewko . And finally — when I am really treating myself — I love to visit Handbag Jay at Holt Renfrew and the Chanel store with my fashion consultant , Elizabeth Middleton with Boss Babe Style .

The Consummate Communicator

The owner and director of PARKER PR , Ellen Parker has more than 15 years of communications experience to her name , from New York City to her current digs here in Calgary . She ’ s a member of far-ranging organizations such as the Calgary Folk Festival ’ s Secret Sound Society and ATB ’ s Emerging Leaders Network .

Do you have a favourite neighbourhood in Calgary ? I love Kensington . It is an eclectic mix of small restaurants , cafés , fashion and jewelry boutiques , an organic market , fitness centres and salons .

Where ’ s the best place to relax and have a drink ? The roof-top at Charbar ! I also love Cilantro ’ s patio , Native Tongues ’ margaritas and I am really excited about The Wednesday Room opening on 8th Avenue .

Describe your essential tour of Calgary for out-of-towners . Depending on what time of year , I recommend pre-booking tickets for the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra or one of the amazing events Calgary has to offer . Visit Glenbow museum and Masters Gallery — they both showcase amazing Canadian artists including the Group of Seven . Have brunch at the Brasserie in Kensington then walk along the river pathway and over the Peace Bridge . Have a spa treatment at Swizzlesticks SalonSpa !

What is surprising or unexpected about Calgary ? The people are friendly ! Calgary has a small but very engaged art scene . It ’ s bike friendly and the walkability is great !

PHOTOGRAPH : COURTESY ELLEN PARKER

24 THE ESSENTIAL CALGARY 2018