Fifteen years ago, on International Women’s Day, Barb Stegemann set out on an unexpected mission. After her best friend, a soldier, was wounded on his mission to liberate women and girls in Afghanistan, she took up his cause—turning conflict into opportunity by sourcing essential oils from war-torn nations to empower farmers and their families.
From launching The 7 Virtues out of her Halifax garage to becoming the first woman from Atlantic Canada to secure a Dragons’ Den deal, Barb has redefined entrepreneurship with purpose. Today, her brand is a global leader in clean, sustainable fragrances, championing equality, period poverty relief, and economic empowerment. In this Q&A, Barb reflects on the role Halifax has played in her journey and some of the things she loves the most about this city.
This International Women’s Day marks the 15th anniversary of The 7 Virtues—how did it all begin here in Halifax?
I launched The 7 Virtues out of my garage with a dream to rebuild nations through commerce. A local women’s business group hosted me as their keynote speaker and helped give me my start, showing me firsthand how this city lifts women in business. This is our day, and no one gets there alone—the brave women before us and the young women after us, we are all part of change and advancing our communities. I became the first woman from Atlantic Canada to land a deal on Dragons’ Den, proving that big dreams can take flight from the East Coast.
How has Halifax influenced your journey as an entrepreneur and the growth of The 7 Virtues?
Halifax breeds scrappy, fearless entrepreneurs. Growing up by the sea teaches you to navigate storms and dream beyond the horizon. The local support has been incredible—from Dragons’ Den to Sephora, this city has backed me every step of the way—proving that big ideas can start in small places.
In your opinion, what makes this city special or unique?
Halifax is where ambition meets authenticity. It’s a city of storytellers, innovators, and risk-takers, all wrapped in East Coast charm. You can be dining at a world-class restaurant one moment and walking the ocean floor in your rubber boots the next.
Why was Halifax the perfect location for your brand’s flagship store?
The Queen’s Marque on the waterfront was the dream spot—where the ocean meets history. Our atelier is immersive, like the city itself, offering guests not just a scent memory but the chance to design their own bespoke perfume and name it—an experience like no other in North America.
What are your top recommendations for dining and shopping in Halifax?
For dining, ToriDori for fresh Japanese flavors, Bicycle Thief for Italian classics, Bar Sofia for vibrant Latin vibes, and Asia for incredible East Asian cuisine. For food shopping, Luke’s Small Goods is my go-to for the best local and specialty ingredients.
Beyond visiting the Atelier, what other experiences should visitors not miss in this city?
A waterfront walk is a must—stop by Pier 21 for a moving immigration story, then take the ferry to Dartmouth for craft breweries and cozy cafés. If you can, drive the Cabot Trail—it’s soul-stirring. And catch a live show at Neptune Theatre.
If Halifax were a perfume, what would it smell like?
A fresh ocean breeze, salt spray on your skin. The heart—fresh flowers from Point Pleasant Park, fresh pine from the trails, and the sweetness of a homemade oatcake. The base—driftwood, amber, and a hint of bonfire smoke by the sea.
