Credited with opening Canada’s first concept store, Secret Location’s Carey Hulshof is somewhat of an enigma.
A world traveller, she has lived, breathed, and studied in the epicentre of Italian fashion, Milan, known for its unique blend of art, culture, and gastronomy. It was here that she further honed her love for fashion, obtaining a master’s degree in Fashion Design from the prestigious Istituto Marangoni.
What many people may not know is Carey’s entrepreneurial spirit started early. She grew up amongst a family of entrepreneurs, and spent a large portion of her childhood working on their cattle ranch. Her first university courses were in agriculture. While growing up, she often worked independently, sometimes along side veterans in the industry, and thus, developing her business acumen at a young age.
It was with this vigour and drive, along with her passion for fashion, art, and design, that she created Secret Location - a destination for people to feel inspired, to escape, and to discover a well-curated catalogue of unique pieces in a space aimed to draw wonder and surprise.
And, Carey does not do things half way.
Noted for never going subtle with her desired look of the day, she trained to be a master barista in Italy before opening Secret Location to ensure her staff knew how to make the best espresso for their clients.
A deep lover of art, Carey is part of the Seattle Art Fair’s VIP circle, and she also advises and mentors several young artists. She is partial to vintage jewellery with historical significance. Just ask her about her four rings.
From Canadian tuxedos to floral kimonos, she often describes her own style as multicultural, favouring both Asian and Western-inspired designs.
Though she is a regular fixture at global Fashion Weeks, her bold and cohesive personal style is not driven by trends on the runway. Instead, her mood and day-to-day experiences influences her daily wardrobe of choice.
Carey believes in sustainability, both of the earth and of fashion. She is heavily invested in how things are sourced and is an unwavering supporter of ethical and responsible production, sustainability, and craftsmanship. This translates to how she and her team buys for Secret Location. As a cattle rancher, she is a staunch believer in sustainable and holistic agriculture.
Often described as aloof upon first introductions, friends and family will say she is warm, personable, and fiercely loyal. When possible, she enjoys the ability to unplug and immerse herself in nature at the cattle ranch.