Hi, my name is… Katie Roe.
I’ve lived in Northwest Peoria for 15 years and I love it because… The area is so beautiful, and I have met so many wonderful people here.
A typical day in my life… Starts with checking social media and texts, then coffee and breakfast. Next, I get to work, which includes checking emails (there are always a lot), sending emails, creating social media posts, monitoring and responding to social media comments or messages, checking multiple news media outlets to see if there are articles that pertain to our community, and then any of a number of different things depending on the day. I am the founder of Upper West Side PHX (uwsphx.com), which is a grassroots community movement encouraging specialty shops and restaurants to open locations on the Upper West Side. Between Facebook and Instagram, Upper West Side PHX has over 18,500 followers that are engaged members of the community and work to create change in the zip codes of 85383, 85382, 85083, 85310, 85308, and 85373.
Some days I have a lot of meetings/events with local business owners, developers, businesses looking to come to the area, local government staff, or anyone that has a connection that may be able to help advocate for the Upper West Side PHX community. On days when I don’t have a lot of meetings, I spend a lot of time doing research and digging for info on what is coming soon. Somewhere in there I do all the normal errands, which often includes taking photos at local businesses. At night, if I’m not attending an event, my husband and I always sit down to dinner together. Then we’re usually sitting on the couch watching TV with our dog while I continue to monitor social media. On weekends I love hanging out on a patio at a restaurant having dinner and cocktails with my family and friends.
My family… Helps me a lot! My mom is always there anytime I need something.
One thing I cannot live without is… Dairy-free creamer and cozy blankets. I love being cold and snuggled up in a blanket!
My favorite movie I could never get tired of watching and why… Girls Just Want To Have Fun! I know all the words. It’s such a classic and such an underrated 80s movie. One of Sarah Jessica Parker’s original leading roles. What’s not to like?
When I was younger, I wanted to be… A figure skating coach. Then I moved to the desert. The irony is not lost on me.
The one person who motivates me is… My business partner Kristi Hunter. She never stops going! She juggles work, being a supermom and wife, and she is always doing something thoughtful and kinds for others. I must be motivated to be able to keep up with her!
The last thing that made me laugh out loud was… Probably an Instagram Reel of a bulldog doing something funny.
The perfect day would be… Sipping coffee on a lanai (covered porch) in Maui with my husband, followed by getting a massage, taking a nap, back to the lanai for cocktails, and then getting some good takeout.
My favorite local place to visit is… Lake Pleasant! I’d love to have a pontoon boat someday.
My life… Is crazy, but I’m becoming highly adaptable. I never intended to start a business and I learn a mind-blowing amount of information every single day.
The best gift I’ve ever received was… As far as material things go, probably a purse. I’m not really into fashion but I do love purses!
My dream vacation would be to… Tour all of Europe and see all the sights.
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received… Who you choose as a partner in life may be the most important decision you ever make.
