Living Out Her Dream

Read about the journey of a small-town girl whose love for storytelling has taken her all over the country. Here is our interview with Megan Shaw.

Megan Shaw
Reporter, CTV Ottawa
Instagram: @shawmegan

Note: Since our interview, Megan has moved on from CTV to the next chapter of her career and has also gotten married!

You began your broadcasting career in radio in your hometown of Windsor, and then moved to Alberta where you were a reporter and news-weather-sports anchor for Peace River Broadcasting, and a reporter and host for Breakfast Television Edmonton, now you are in Ottawa.

What made you choose broadcasting as a career and how has the experience been like so far.

Storytelling has always been a passion of mine. I can remember as far back as elementary school, I was the student who always wanted to read out-loud in class, the student who could not wait to present her speech in front of the school gym. As I got older, I furthered my passion for presenting and writing by taking English in University, and later adding a double major in Communication, Media, Film. I loved learning how to write better stories, the different writing styles for film, television, and news, how to produce a story, select images, edit and film and build a product. It was all very exciting for me. Now, being able to apply these skills at work everyday – it is not like work at all.

I get to meet amazing people, tell amazing stories and I am continuously learning and growing everyday at my job.

You did an internship at Etalk Entertainment and CTV Toronto. How was that experience like – living and working into Toronto.

When I first moved to Toronto, I was originally overwhelmed. I grew up in a small town and had never lived on my own before and I think I grew up a lot in that year. I was able to learn about public transit, paying my own bills, time management, etc. Once I started to feel comfortable and secured a job, that is when I really started to love it. I would intern in the day and then work at a restaurant at night, which was challenging at times, but taught me about working hard. I was also living with my best friend at the time and we had a blast together going out in the city. At my internships, I was able to see how television stations worked and what it was take for me to succeed. The most important thing I learned while interning, was that this was definitely a career I wanted to pursue and if I worked hard enough I could have a career in broadcasting.

Did you get to meet any celebrities?

I was able to meet a ton of celebrities at etalk, as well as Breakfast Television. I think you really get to see that they are just people too – and most of them are super down to earth. One of my favourite moments was meeting Raine Maida from Our Lady Peace. I grew up going to his concerts and then to see how genuine he was as a person was really inspiring.

Your hair and makeup always seem so perfect. Over the past few years have you learned any tips along the way?

It’s funny because growing up – I was a huge tomboy. I did not really get into hair and makeup until after University. I have had amazing people do my hair and make-up on set and I always ask them to show me what they are doing, what styles or colours work best for me. That way I can try and replicate the look later on. The best technique I have learned so far is how to curl my hair with a straightener. It takes me no time at all and the wave lasts all day.

Let’s talk wardrobe – how do you choose what to wear? You must have a massive closet.

Full disclosure – I am a shopaholic.

I l love clothes, I love shopping, I love switching wardrobes with my girlfriends. I usually find outfit ideas from social media like Pinterest, Instagram, or sometimes I will just google trends. Then, I will go to the mall and just try on a bunch of outfits to see what works for me. I do not really care for the brand name – more just what looks best.

Since we are a fashion and beauty blog, would you mind answering a few personal questions?

Do you have a daily beauty routine?

I wouldn’t say that I really have a set routine, but there are definitely things I like to do to look and feel my best. I try and go to the gym, drink a lot of water, and I am big on getting enough sleep. Otherwise, I really just make sure to wash my face, use lotion, and I will do a hair treatment every couples weeks.

Let’s hear some of your favorites…

piece of clothing you own: This is an impossible question.. probably just a classic black dress.
place to shop for clothes: I like places I can browse multiple items like Nordstrom, Simons and Neiman Marcus.
hair product: My blonde hair loves to fade so purple shampoo is my best friend.
make up must haves: I am a huge fan of eyelash extensions.

Do you have any beauty or fashion pet peeves?

Not really. I think there are definitely trends that work for some people that might not necessarily work for me, but if they can pull it off more power to them.

How would you describe your personal style?

Trendy. I will definitely get ready for an event or occasion – but honestly most days I am in my skinny jeans and sweaters.

What is your favorite way to pamper yourself?

Spa day! Massage – facial – nails. I love them all.

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?

Europe is on the bucket list.

Finally give us three words that describe you best.

Curious, lively and growing.