Meet Tanis from Inspiration Custom Cabinets & Furniture

Tanis Longshore loves putting her creativity to work turning a customer’s vision into reality.

Beginning her career as a cabinetmaking apprentice, Tanis enjoyed learning different woodworking techniques and challenging herself creatively. While she loved cabinetmaking, she longed for the chance to work directly with her customers. She also wanted to have the experience of working on an entire product from start to finish.

Inspired to start her own business, Tanis sought the financial investment and support of CYBF to launch Inspiration Custom Cabinets & Furniture in Stettler, Alberta. Along with seed financing, she was also connected to CYBF mentor Lew Hayes who provided her with business advice and encouragement along the way.

“As a business owner, I am a part of the cabinet production process from start to finish which allows me to work with the customer one-on-one to design their vision, as well as build and install the final product,” Tanis explained. “I have learned far more than I ever would have working for someone else.”

Tanis continues to expand her customer base while living her entrepreneurial dream. She hired her first employee in the first year of operation.

“CYBF has been an important factor in my own success, and the success of my business,” said Tanis. “CYBF’s resources, including the mentoring program, have been a huge benefit. Lew, my mentor, has helped me to look at business situations differently as well as set goals and develop a better plan for the future.”