Meet the Director: Kelsey Phare

Meet the Director: Kelsey Phare, CFP®, RRC®

Financial Advisor, Mutual Funds Investment Specialist | Pemberton Chamber Treasurer

Pemberton is more than just a place to live for Kelsey Phare—it’s home in the truest sense. Born and raised in Pemberton, Kelsey attended both elementary and high school in Pemberton. Though she ventured away for a time for a stint in Vancouver, she quickly realized there was no substitute for the tight-knit, community-first feel of her hometown. So she came back—and never looked back.

Professionally, Kelsey brings a wealth of experience in the financial sector. With over eight years in banking, and her Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation earned in 2022, she now works as a Financial Advisor and Mutual Funds Investment Specialist at Blueshore Financial in the Pemberton branch. Her career path also includes some years in restaurant management—an experience that gave her insight into the daily realities of small business operations.

“I’ve always liked helping people,” Kelsey shares. “Finance can be overwhelming for a lot of people, so I love being able to simplify things and help people feel confident about their financial choices.”

On the Chamber Board: A Role Rooted in Purpose

As Treasurer of the Pemberton Chamber of Commerce, Kelsey chairs the finance committee and oversees the Chamber’s financial health. That includes everything from payroll and source deductions to business reports and investment recommendations.

“I saw joining the board as a way to grow both personally and professionally,” she explains. “It’s been a great opportunity to build relationships with local business owners and get more involved in the community.”

One project she’s particularly excited about? Supporting the Chamber’s Sign Committee, which is currently working to upgrade our industry sign when you first enter Pemberton. 

Business in Pemberton: Bright and Booming

Kelsey describes Pemberton’s business landscape as thriving and rapidly evolving.

“We’re seeing new businesses pop up all the time,” she says. “There’s so much economic momentum, and the community is becoming more sustainable for entrepreneurs. Hopefully, the Chamber has played a role in that growth.”

Her advice for new or aspiring business owners?

• Start with a strong financial foundation.
• Meet with professionals early on.
• Use the resources around you—BDO, Community Futures, and the Chamber itself.
• Make the most of networking events, social media, and the Chamber’s directory.
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Rapid-Fire Round with Kelsey:

Coffee or Tea? Coffee!

Favourite local hangout? Valley Trail or a friends backyard with a Mt. Currie view

Weekend plans? Gardening and tending her 5-acre homestead near Gates Lake

Chamber role swap? “I’d trade places with Adam for his wine cellar—and to get to hang out with David for 24 hours.”

Looking Ahead:

As a Chamber director, Kelsey hopes to continue learning, building her network, and giving back to the community she loves—using her skills in finance to support the local economy, the financial health of the Pemberton Chamber of Commerce, and the business ecosystem.

Get in touch with Kelsey for any financial needs - kelsey.phare@blueshorefinancial.com