It’s been nearly two months since I left Malenka Originals — hard to believe. I’m wondering why it took me so long to write this final blog post. I suppose the truth is — saying goodbye is hard!
If you’re only learning about this for the first time, you might have missed the announcement on our Facebook, Instagram and newsletter that — after over a decade as the founder and owner of Malenka Originals — I decided to move on.
So why did I leave? Well, it was just time. After 10 years, I was looking for a new challenge. The great news is that the legacy of Malenka Originals will live on. I’m overjoyed that my employee and long-term collaborator Lisa Silfwerbrand took over operations at the shop as of Monday, March 13th. Lisa has renamed the store under her own brand, Recreated Designs. I wish Lisa every bit of success possible!
As for what’s next for me, I had a major pivot over the last couple years. Although I loved the artistic side of Malenka Originals, the real surprise was how much I enjoyed being part of Ottawa’s business community and stretching my entrepreneurial wings. I decided to do an MBA at the University of Ottawa in 2021, where I discovered the field of family business. There are so many family business connections to my work at Malenka Originals — most of the suppliers I bought from were family run (Annie Sloan, Fusion, IOD, Crown Meakins and more) plus, I came from an entrepreneurial family (remember, my biz name is in honour of my talented grandfather — who used to call me Malenka Katrina — and his life-long antique/refinishing business).
I’m now working at the Family Enterprise Legacy Institute (FELI) at the Telfer School of Management where I hope to make an impact helping empower the next generation of responsible business owners. You can always connect with me on LinkedIn to keep in touch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-barclay/
I’m grateful to every single one of you who had a part in this shop over the last 10 years. It’s been a privilege getting to know so many of you and being part of your creative journey. Looking back, the sense of community and friendship has been so strong — so much that this doesn’t really feel like it was a job! It’s been a special time — thank you for helping make it what it was.
Thank you for everything. Keep creative, keep painting, and I hope to see you around!
Love Katrina x
PS: I was completely overwhelmed with the beautiful messages people left me on Facebook and Instagram and through emails. A friend suggested I compile them all together, because in many years from now, it will be incredible to look back. I haven’t done that yet, but I’ve picked a very small selection to put here. Honestly, it filled me with joy and made this transition easier (more emotional! But easier because I feel proud and happy to have made an impact in so many people’s lives).
Jolyne said: Katrina I felt your emotions and started to cry. You’ve been such a great coach and teacher and one of my favorite local businesses to boast about. Wishing you the best.
Khristine said: You will be missed Katrina! I attended a workshop years ago with you, and that is where my furniture painting journey began!! You have been amazingly supportive and always made everyone feel seen and heard. All the best to you in your new chapter!!
My friends at Helping with Furniture Ottawa said: You are an amazing human Katrina! Your support to HWF and the Ottawa community has made such an impact! Wishing you the very best in your new adventures! I’ve always looked up to you since we’ve met and will continue to do so! Wishing you and your family the very best!!!! Love Nat and HWF peeps!!!!
Amal said: What a wonderful space and gift you created for all of us. So much creativity, happiness, joy and laughter in this little special corner of the globe. Thank you for letting me be part of this chapter in your life. You were the best boss ever but most importantly you became a cherished friend and soul sister
Wishing you the very best in your next chapter!!!!
Carol said: Congratulations on your new journey and wish you the best. Without you, I would never have started on this wonderful hobby of renewing furniture which has filled many of my retirement days. Your creativity and advice have inspired me along the way
Kim said: I have to say the video brought a few tears. What an amazing journey you have had and continue to have. What an amazing new adventure you are starting and how very perfect for you and a great next step in your journey. I met you after losing my mom and needing to fill in the void in my life as I had spent 9 years caring for her. I was hooked on the first class. Your kindness, support and sharing of your knowledge helped me find my true self again and for that I am so grateful to you. Many fun times had – many new friends and let’s not forget about all the pop up shows – well maybe not the last one lol. I wish you all the best and am sending you positive energy. Please keep in touch with us all. xo
Dawn said: Congratulations on your new job it sounds very exciting and a perfect fit for you. I was at your opening day at your original store. I was so excited, as was my husband, as he no longer had to drive 100s of kms out of his way on trips so I could buy chalk paint. I participated in two of your pop ups shops and really enjoyed the experience. Thank you Katrina for being such a wonderful role model for women entrepreneurs and sharing your passion with so many of us. All the best on your new adventure.
Claudia said: Yes also a little teary! What a journey! I remember the kernel of an idea and it was a wonder to watch you grow it and pour your heart into it! Congratulations 
on making this world a better and more beautiful place!!! Best wishes in your new path, can’t wait to hear more
Julie said: katrina! i am so sorry to see you go but at the same time so very happy to hear you are starting yet another journey with im sure the same passion you brought to the creative community. you inspired so many people! and i always loved how you made every customer feel special. best of luck to you, best wishes, and much success 
And so many more! Thank you so much everyone. How lucky have I been to get to know so many of you!
