“For me, slowing down is a conscious choice to prioritize quality over quantity”
We recently met Kayla Crump, founder of My Navy Home, and we invited Kayla to share some of her story about the slow paced life in Northern BC, Canada that she has made for herself, and how her creativity came to the surface in launching My Navy Home.
We recently met Kayla Crump, founder of My Navy Home, and we invited Kayla to share some of her story about the slow paced life in Northern BC, Canada that she has made for herself, and how her creativity came to the surface in launching My Navy Home.
E: Can you share a little of your background?
KC: I have lived most my life in a small Northern BC town where I grew up. I ventured different paths in my career and personal life. Some might hear my story and swear I’ve lived a few lives before turning twenty-three. In the career world I was a hairdresser, worked in the forestry industry, tried multiple admin roles to start my life and finally reached the point of mother hood. My son James is truly a gift and becoming a mother has profoundly changed my perspective on life. Being a mother has [given me a whole new appreciation] for the world around me and to value the small, meaningful moments in the everyday. I walk the earth again as a child noticing the magic in the mundane.
E: How did you start doing what you do (your photography, content creating and website)?
KC: I have always been a creative and explored this passion in many different ways. I jumped onto social media sharing our home renovation projects and my love of creating a home that is a reflection of one’s self. However, after building for eleven years and completing large projects I felt drawn to share more of our slowed down life instead, and the moments that [have created our] memories.
Living in the picturesque landscapes of Northern British Columbia has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the beauty of slow, intentional living. As a videographer, I find immense joy in capturing the serene, often overlooked moments that make life truly special. Whether it's the golden light streaming through my kitchen window in the early morning or the tranquil sounds of a secluded forest trail, my passion lies in sharing these glimpses of everyday magic with my audience.
E: What does it mean to you to slow down and be intentional?
KC: Slowing down and being intentional means embracing a mindful approach to life, where each moment is savoured and appreciated for its depth and beauty. It’s about pausing amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life to fully engage with the present moment, whether it's enjoying a quiet morning with a warm cup of coffee or taking a leisurely stroll through nature.
For me, slowing down is a conscious choice to prioritise quality over quantity, to cultivate deeper connections with myself, my loved ones, and the world around me. It's about being fully present and mindful in all that I do, whether I'm capturing a fleeting sunset on camera or spending quality time with my family.
Being intentional goes hand in hand with slowing down—it's about living with purpose and aligning my actions with my values and goals. It means making deliberate choices that enrich my life and contribute positively to the well-being of those around me. By embracing a slower, more intentional pace, I find clarity, peace, and a profound sense of fulfilment in both my personal and creative endeavours.
E: How do you connect with nature, and what inspires you to create and explore new ideas?
KC: Connecting with nature for me is a deeply personal and enriching experience. Nature inspires me with its raw beauty and endless wonders.
The inspiration to create and explore new adventures stems from my desire to capture and share these moments of awe and serenity. Each adventure - whether it's a hike, gathering firewood for winter, or holding a cup of coffee watching snow fall from inside my home, fuels my creativity as a videographer. It allows me to weave together stories that celebrate the magnificence of nature and inspire others to embrace the outdoors.
E: When considering what you buy, what influences your decision making?
KC: When making purchasing decisions, I prioritize quality and longevity over cheap, replaceable items. I value products that are built to last and that offer sustainable value. Investing in higher-quality items aligns with my belief in reducing waste and promoting a more thoughtful, long-term approach to consumption.
Shop Kayla's Ecologyst Collection Here
