Public Relations for food, fashion, art, and design…who are you going to call on? Shannon Heth. She is your Partly Sunny Industry Insider this week.

Tell us about yourself. How did Heth PR come about?: I always had an interest in public relations. For a number of years I handled PR for friends and special events, sometimes for free, just to get my feet wet. In 2007 I went to New York and worked at a boutique PR firm there. When I returned to Vancouver in 2008, HethPR as it is now, was born.

Things you love about what you do?: I’ve always loved meeting and talking to people. The great things about what I do is that everyday it’s pretty likely that I’m going to talk to new people, hear new ideas, and learn new things. I also love events and parties, and I find I get to go to a lot of those, which is a bonus!

Have you felt any strain in the market due to our so called “recession”?: Surprisingly no. I think that a lot of people realize that now, more than ever, PR can be the most effective way to boost business.

How would you describe your fashion style?: I’d say I tend to overdress more than underdress, which is still rare for Vancouver. I love dresses, mixing patterns, high heels, and anything that makes a statement. Since I represent myself, it’s important that people notice and remember me. A lot of my dressing is done with that idea in mind.

Where are some of your favorite hang out spots in Vancouver? (Either for shopping, dining, etc): I do a lot of meetings at Cafe Medina, they make the most fantastic breakfast and the coffees are a great way to start the day. Since I live and work in Gastown, I like to visit the local shops. Amy at Nouvelle Nouvelle has a great eye and carries lines from New York and Australia that no one else in the city has discovered. One of a Few and Two of a Few are great as well. My all time favourite though has got to be Deluxe Junk. I’ve been shopping there for 5 years and I always find something exciting every time I walk in. For dinner I love L’Altro Buca, and Angus An’s newly opened Maenam on 4th Ave.

What are you sporting in your photo?: I’m wearing a Marc Jacobs dress and Gucci shoes with a Marc Jacobs bag, The bag was a loaner from a friend - the colour was perfect!

What was the last book you read?: Gargoyle. A great book that creates some incredible images, written by a local author. I think it’s going to be made into a movie.

What inspires you?: New York. I try to get back there as often as possible. Every time I go there I feel so energized, and the city is always creating something new. Also, my grandfather. He’s 91, owns his own business and still drives into work everyday. He’s amazing.

Sunny Shum, Your Industry Insider

*Photo Credit: Urban Mixer