Frederique Philip

While I co-owned the Sooke Harbour House hotel Restaurant from 1979 to 2020, I discovered my real passion during the three major renovations we did: building and creating artistic and relaxing spaces, interior design at its best with the help of artists. Art everywhere inside and outside was and still is my goal.

April 2003, I self published my first book: The Art of Sooke Harbour House, distributed all over Canada. The foreword was written by Robert Bateman, the book received very good reviews. I worked on 2005 and 2007 calendar that featured artistic recipe art cards created by two local painters and recipes by the Sooke Harbour House Chef Edward Tuson.

In 2002, I received the Women of Distinction Award for Business, the Professions and Entrepreneurship from the YM-YWCA of Greater Victoria.

In 2003 I was the recipient, among 57 other nominees, of the Volunteer Award from the District of Sooke during the 2nd Volunteer Recognition Award Ceremony.

In March 2007 I received the BC Community Achievement Award, recognizing and celebrating the spirit, imagination, dedication and contribution of British Columbians to their communities.

I received the Community Spirit Award from the Sooke Fine Arts Society in recognition of outstanding support of the Sooke Fine Arts Show.

In May 2010 I, with husband Sinclair, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Vancouver Magazine for our 30 years mentorship and inspiration to the regional food culture of British Columbia.

In June 2010, I, with husband Sinclair, received the Governor General Award, The Nation’s Table for Mentorship and Inspiration, recognizing role models and those who inspire their peers and fellow Canadians about the way which we think about, appreciate and participate in the nation’s table.

I am a very passionate creative individual that believes in hard work and in all possibilities, as long as you work with people and put your energy to it. Never tell me it cannot be done...I will prove you wrong.

One of the quote I like is “the key to success is to do common things uncommonly well”.