Meet Emily Shimwell

I’m a Yorkshire-born storyteller, experience designer, mom of two small humans, and lifelong gatherer, now rooted in Squamish, BC.

I believe in the power of gathering - the magic that happens when women come home to themselves, feel seen, celebrated, and inspired, and finally take a deep exhale at the table.

As the founder of Dine Wilder, I design immersive, emotion-led dinner retreats for women craving more: more depth, more connection, and more intentional space to just be. Since launching in September 2024, we’ve welcomed over 540 women to the table, each experience carefully crafted to leave them saying, “I’m so glad I came.”

Gathering is in my bones. If you know me, you know my door is always open, the kettle is always on, and I’ll happily run down the street just to give you a compliment. Creating spaces where people feel safe, alive, and deeply connected is the heartbeat of everything I do.

Hello,
I’m Emily!

“We’re so quick to look outside ourselves for energy and change, but I want to curate the spaces where women have time to look within - and find what’s already there.”

I’ve been an entrepreneur since the age of five - dreaming, creating, and turning big ideas into reality has always been part of who I am. Today, I’m the co-founder of Graze Wilder Charcuterie and the founder of Dine Wilder Events - ventures born from my obsession with beauty, experience, and community-rooted impact.

I’m an early riser and a night owl, fuelled by a constantly changing coffee order and a deep belief in the power of “why.” I live for brand-building, brave ideas, and conversations that crack you open and leave you feeling more yourself than when you walked in.

This year, I made one small but powerful shift: I stopped calling life busy and started calling it full. A full life is intentional. Abundant. Meaningful. It’s about presence, connection, and creating experiences that leave a mark — at the table and beyond.

If you’re looking to connect, collaborate, or join me at the table, I’d love to hear from you. My inbox is always open.

Drawing of a cat sitting on a pink surface with a yellow background.

  • “I had the JOY of being a guest speaker at one of Emily’s Dine Wilder dinners and I can confidently say her superpower is connection. Emily has a rare gift for bringing people together in a way that makes everyone feel like they belong. Every detail, from the ambiance to the conversations, is thoughtfully designed to create a truly unforgettable experience. She has a unique ability to transform any space into something extraordinary, and her energy is absolutely contagious. You can't help but leave her events feeling inspired, uplifted, and deeply connected. Emily doesn’t just host gatherings - she creates moments that resonate long after the evening ends. If you ever have the chance to be part of one of her events, don’t miss it!”


    Laura van der Veer
    Co-Founder, She Summits Forum, Facilitator, Speaker & Coach

  • “Emily has a rare talent for blending creativity, intention, and detail to transform a simple dinner into a heartfelt, multi-sensory journey. Her ability to weave together flavors, stories, curated speakers, and a thoughtfully chosen guest list creates an atmosphere of connection through food that is truly unforgettable. Working with Emily is seamless and inspiring. She understands the essence of community, collaboration, and celebration. For anyone looking to create meaningful, elevated events where connection lingers long after the last dish is cleared, Dine Wilder is an absolute gift.”


    Beriah Chandoo
    OT, Entrepreneur, Owner - Cedar Rock Wellness

  • “I had the honour of being a speaker and guest at Emily's inaugural Dine Wilder event. Emily pours her whole heart into everything she creates, and it shows. Her vision is executed with such precision and care, making the entire experience truly remarkable. The intention behind each Dine Wilder gathering is evident in every detail. Her energy is contagious and uplifting, making it an absolute joy to be part of. I can’t say enough about working with Emily - the quality of her delivery will leave you with an unforgettable experience!”


    Mallory Meyer
    Podcast Host, Human Resources Manager & Coach

  • “Emily is the ray of sunshine that everyone needs in their lives and an incredibly dedicated business owner. I had the joy of serving at three of her Dine Wilder events, and I can't say enough great things about them. From the moment you arrive, you're welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm. The level of detail she pours into these long-table dinners is truly next level. You'll walk away feeling completely fulfilled and uplifted.”


    Samantha Kent
    Partner Engagement Manager at ElearningU
Gold circular award badge with white and navy blue text indicating a winner of the Squamish Chamber Business Excellence Awards 2024, presented by RE/MAX Sea to Sky Real Estate.

This award honors an entrepreneur who demonstrates exceptional business acumen, implements exemplary practices, and embodies a true entrepreneurial spirit. It recognizes someone who consistently goes above and beyond—both within their business and in their community.

2024 Squamish Chamber Business Excellence - Emerging Entrepreneur

Media Features

Episode 195: Making Friends with Strangers: Emily Shimwell is Reimagining the Dining Experience

Coming Soon…

Emerging Entrepreneurs Squamish Youth in Business Mentor

The Emerging Entrepreneurs Program is a joint initiative stewarded by the Squamish Chamber of Commerce and Sea to Sky School District, to provide skills and resources for youth to become business leaders and innovators. Currently, the program features students from Howe Sound Secondary, with the hope to expand to other high schools.

Let’s Work Together

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I’ll be in touch!