Introducing Kaitlyn Bristowe and Clio De La Llave — friends, business partners, jokesters and scrunchie connosoisseurs. Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or a peaceful place without social media), you know Kaitlyn as the Season 11 star of “The Bachelorette”, ABC’s wildly successful show that helps men and women find the partner of their dreams — usually with some high stakes drama along the way.
Since her time on the show, Kaitlyn has embarked on a number of ventures, including her wildly successful Off The Vine podcast, which debuted at #1 on iTunes and is now on a Spring Break Tour across North America in five cities (hello, most fun friend date ever!) In addition, Kaitlyn has launched her new lifestyle brand The Dew Edit, starred in a Broadway production this past December and is now working on her own wine label, which is being released later this spring. Kaitlyn is a constant source of hilarity on Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram, and has a fervent following who enjoy her witty banter and ‘take’ on current events.
Clio is a one-woman business juggernaut, who balances running her own digital marketing agency Booje Media with her gig as Kaitlyn’s full-time manager, strategist and confidante. Anyone who knows Clio can attest to her incredible work ethic, creative ideas and boundless energy, and she and Kaitlyn travel constantly together, working on exciting media projects and embarking on crazy adventures. They knew each other far before Kaitlyn’s time on The Bachelorette and they are the perfect example of opposite personalities complementing each other.
For this profile, we wanted to get a peek into the world of these two powerhouse female entrepreneurs to discover what drives them, how they have fun in their downtime and what’s next.
In addition to supporting each other, Clio and Kaitlyn are true babes because of the way they lift up the women around them every day through their generosity, kindness and raw conversation. Without further a-dew (see what we did there), please meet Clio and Kaitlyn.
What does “Babes Supporting Babes” mean to you?
KAITLYN: It’s women acknowledging the power we have as females, and how lifting each other up and recognizing our strengths can unite us to change the world.
CLIO: To me, Babes Supporting Babes is doing what you can to help and support other women who are trying to achieve greatness in whatever they’re passionate about. Whether that’s reaching into your toolbox, connecting them with someone in your network or being a sounding board, support from peers can make a huge difference in someone achieving their dreams. There is power in numbers!
What city feels most like home to you?
KAITLYN: Leduc will always be home to me — I’m an Alberta girl at heart. However, my house in Nashville is the first home that I purchased, and I’ve decorated it and truly made it feel like my sanctuary. I always love coming home after traveling, it feels so cozy and warm.
CLIO: I was born in Mexico, but Vancouver is definitely the place that feels most like home. However, whenever I travel to Mexico and France (where my mom is from), it definitely feels like a part of me.
What is something that drives you?
KAITLYN: How many people I have a connection with. I always wanted to be a performer, and now I have a platform where I can connect with people everyday. It’s a dream come true.
CLIO: I am so passionate about all of the projects I’m working on and the people I get to work with. It truly doesn’t feel like work — it feels like my passion. What drives me is continuing to cultivate passion projects that don’t feel like work.
If you could go back in time, what year or era would you travel to?
KAITLYN: The early 90s. I love all things grunge, and it seems like times then were simpler somehow.
CLIO: The Roaring Twenties. I love speakeasy bars, and I would love to dress up and go to a Gatsby party.
Who are your mentors? What have they taught you?
KAITLYN: To be honest, Clio is one of mine. Clio works her ass off and she has incredible ethics — she always does the right thing. I also have to mention Penni Thow — she helped me so much when I got into the entertainment industry. We knew each other long before either of us were in the entertainment business, and she really made me think about longevity and the importance of making decisions with the long term in mind. She also taught me that wherever I go, it’s super important to remember people’s names and thank them. You never know who you’re dealing with and being kind is always good business.
CLIO: Honestly, I’ve learned so much from all of the people I’ve been in business with. I come from traditional marketing and PR and working with Kaitlyn, who is such a raw and real
What is your go-to karaoke song?
KAITLYN: Well, my love of ‘Shoop’ is well known, but my recent favorite has to be Fergie’s classic track ‘My Humps.’
CLIO: This is kind of embarrassing, but ‘Unbreak My Heart’ by Toni Braxton. (*Editor’s Note: we do not find this embarrassing whatsoever and also love this epic ballad.)
What is the most daring thing you’ve ever done?
KAITLYN: I mean, I think I’ve gotta say putting my love life and sex life on TV. That has to be it!
CLIO: Raising money for a tech startup. Asking people for money really took me out of my comfort zone.
Who would you want to play you in a movie about your life?
KAITLYN: Rachel McAdams. Because she’s Canadian, can play any role, and comes across as someone who seems real. And I’m wildly attracted to her.
CLIO: Same! We are both obsessed with Rachel McAdams. Do you remember that kiss from the MTV Awards years back? I sure do.
What do you consider your “superpower”, aka the thing you can do better than anyone else?
CLIO: I’m going to answer for Kaitlyn, because she’s modest and she won’t say this — but she is very magnetic. People are very drawn to her. It’s not because she’s well known…it’s because of her infectious laugh, warm energy and natural enthusiasm. It’s contagious.
KAITLYN: I’m going to answer for Clio too! She has two remarkable skills — she is very persuasive and extremely empathetic. Clio can find a way to get anything done, even if it initially seems impossible. She also has a knack for making people feel heard and being able to think about things from their perspective.
Who is your current celebrity crush?
KAITLYN: Jason Tartrick, obviously. And Ellen DeGeneres. She is my hall pass.
CLIO: Meghan Markle. I think she is insanely beautiful.
What characteristics do you most admire in the people you work with?
KAITLYN: Creative thinkers, people who can accept constructive criticism and people who can hold themselves accountable.
CLIO: Integrity, meaning people who have good ethics and morals, and self starters. I so appreciate it when I work with people who are resourceful.
If you could see any live act in the world right now, who would it be and what venue?
KAITLYN: Kacey Musgraves at the Grand Ole Opry.
CLIO: Bruno Mars — I love him! And I think Red Rocks is the most magical venue on the planet.
What was your first job?
KAITLYN: A busser at Smitty’s Family Restaurant — it was a franchise diner in my hometown. I cleared and set tables, would ring people out — you name it! I wore a maroon uniform and lasted a whole three weeks.
CLIO: I worked at Buffalo Jeans. I think I got the job because I wore a fuzzy pink turtleneck to my interview. Times were different then, okay? Ha.
What are three things we would find in your fridge at all times?
KAITLYN: Pinot noir (I chill it, which I know isn’t “a thing”…so sue me), egg whites and ketchup.
CLIO: Usually, nothing…embarrassing but true! But I usually have peanut butter, raspberries and sparkling water.
What is your most-trusted news source?
KAITLYN: Twitter, honestly. It’s the quickest way to learn about things that are unfolding. I also follow a ton of different outlets because I like to read different perspectives. It seems like every source has some kind of bias these days.
CLIO: I listen to The Daily podcast by The New York Times every morning.
What are your pet peeves?
KAITLYN: Invasions of personal space — Clio is a hugger and a toucher, and it took me awhile to ‘let her in’! I also don’t like loud chewers (I have misophonia) and people who clap when the plane lands. They are the worst.
CLIO: Slow walkers and slow eaters. I also have a thing about receiving bad service in a restaurant. I worked in the hospitality industry for a long time and think service makes or breaks an experience.
What is your version of a “power suit”, aka the outfit that makes you feel the most powerful?
KAITLYN: For business meetings, I usually rock a deep-v power shoulder pantsuit. If it’s for my podcast, I’m gonna be in a onesie and a toque. That is my go-to.
CLIO: A blazer with shoulder pads, matching slacks and heels. It’s the only time I wear heels, but it always gives me extra pep in my step.
When you were a kid, was there an artist, movie or album that had a profound effect on you?
KAITLYN: Alanis Morrisette’s ‘Jagged Little Pill’ was my everything. I did a book report, I did drawings of her…I sound a bit creepy but you get my drift!
CLIO: I loved (and still love!) The Backstreet Boys. Kaitlyn and I are actually going in mid-April to see them perform — we’re so stoked!
What public figure do you admire the most?
KAITLYN: Chrissy Teigen. She’s so funny, so real and honest. Her episode of ‘Hot Ones‘ was the best!
CLIO: Barack Obama. He’s the most eloquent public speaker and leads by example. I could go on about him forever.
What is something you’re currently working on?
KAITLYN: Learning how to receive constructive criticism.
CLIO: Less multitasking.
What’s a book you think everyone should read?
KAITLYN: The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman. It can help you in business relationships and personal relationships.
CLIO: It truly is a phenomenal communication book. And anyone who knows me knows that my love language is ‘touch.”
KAITLYN: Mine is definitely ‘words of affirmation’!
What are five things in your purse right now?
KAITLYN: I have about 30 things in there all the time. First off, my comb — a girl’s gotta pump up the volume. Next, I always carry individual makeup wipes, a booty band I never use, and my perfume, which I’m just getting used to. Short story — I have worn Calgon ‘Marshmallow’ Body Mist forever, but when I started dating Jason he was like, “um, you are an amazing woman who needs an adult perfume.” He gave me Chloe, which I like, but if I’m being honest…I still dream of my Calgon. Ha! I also always carry K’pure Naturals Calming Mist — it’s amazing for travel.
CLIO: I always carry Tarte Quench Lip Rescue, my laptop, TruMarine Collagen, L’Eauxygénante facial spray from Biologique Recherche and an external phone battery.
What did your grade school report cards say about you?
KAITLYN: That I didn’t apply myself as much as I should. I was the class clown!
CLIO: That I was very average and hardworking. I console myself with this boring anecdote by noting that C+ and B students are often the most successful entrepreneurs.
Favourite classic movie and why?
KAITLYN: My favorite is definitely The Sound of Music, but really any musical.
CLIO: Remember The Titans. I love the whole ‘team’ dynamic. I used to watch it before big basketball tournaments in high school. It was very motivational!
Describe the perfect night out in your hometown.
KAITLYN: In Nashville, my favorite night out would start at Arrington Vineyards for live music, swinging benches from trees, and a delicious picnic. And then let’s be honest, I’m probably going to head down to a honky tonk bar and rap for a few people, you know me.
CLIO: There are so many good restaurants in Vancouver — I love going out for dinner with friends. I also love catching live concerts at smaller venues like the Vogue and the Commodore.
Keep up with Kaitlyn on Instagram @kaitlynbristowe and @offthevinepodcast.
Keep up with Clio on Instagram @cliodelallave.
Introduction written by Alexis Sheridan.