The dream life of a rich Quebecer

In the new documentary series Dream lifeviewers will have privileged access to the lives of six Quebec women with very different backgrounds, but with the common denominator of being very fortunate. Among the participants, we find Isabelle Gauvin, the wife of Luc Poirier, one of the richest men in Quebec.

In this 10-episode documentary, you will meet a woman who takes responsibility for herself. Isabelle Gauvin is not afraid to share with the public her daily life which would be the envy of many people.

At 45, this mother admits to loving beauty: designer clothes, beautiful bags, luxury cars, travel, without forgetting her frequent getaways to Florida, where she and her partner own a superb residence.

But aside from the opulence in which Isabelle lives, we wanted to know who she really is. We also asked her how she reacts to derogatory comments posted on social media. Because, it is well known, showing off one’s wealth is taboo in Quebec.

Finally, as she particularly likes Florida, she gives us some of her favorites here.

Did you hesitate for a long time before agreeing to participate in the documentary? Dream life?

At first, I was very reluctant, because I didn’t want to take part in a show like The Real Housewifes where women gang up on each other. But I finally accepted when I learned that the objective of the documentary was rather to follow each of us individually in our journeys. My partner, Luc Poirier, was himself very excited about this documentary and he strongly encouraged me to say yes. He saw this show as a way to make people know this woman he loves so much. One thing is certain, viewers will notice when watching Dream life that I am not only Luc Poirier’s wife.

Will people find out who you are on this show?

As Luc and I are almost always together on a daily basis, they will see us as a couple at events, social evenings or on trips. But I believe they will also get to know me in my everyday life. People will realize that despite our money, I get up every morning to prepare the children’s lunch, and that I work. I don’t spend my life going to the hairdresser, shopping or getting massages. I don’t have any employees at home either. I personally take care of grocery shopping and cooking. I have a cleaning lady who comes to help us for a day and a half a week, no more.

Do you think you will face criticism from those who watch the show?

Certainly, but it’s part of my reality. Luc and I are active on social networks, and we regularly receive hateful messages, because we do not hesitate to show off our beautiful cars, our acquisitions or even our trips. But since these messages come from people who don’t know me personally, it doesn’t affect me at all. Maybe 10 years ago I would have reacted differently, but over the years I’ve learned to put a shell on myself.

Do these malicious reactions surprise you?

No way. In Quebec, we know, we must refrain from talking about money and, above all, not show that we are making it. People sometimes forget how hard Luc works and experiences a lot of stress. Not everyone would be able to endure that. If there’s one person who should show off his success, it’s Luc. He grew up poor and became very successful financially. He is a man of great intelligence, with a thousand and one projects. If we are active on social networks, it is to motivate people to surpass themselves. And since we receive a lot of positive messages from people inspired by what we publish, we have no intention of stopping.

For your part, what kind of positive messages are you receiving?

People write to me that I inspire them, because I have a beautiful relationship with my children, and a fulfilling family life. Women tell me they think I’m lucky to be with a man who loves me so much. They tell me that they, in turn, dream of experiencing great love. I consider myself privileged to receive such beautiful messages, and it means a lot to me.

Your partner, Luc Poirier, is better known to the public, but much less is known about you. How would you describe yourself?

I grew up on the South Shore of Montreal in Brossard with an older brother 4 years older than me. My father was a manager of office buildings in Montreal, and this allowed us to attend private secondary schools and to travel. We were the typical family with two cars and a dog. We were not the poorest, but not the richest either. I studied administration at CEGEP and as beauty particularly interested me, I did a DEP in aesthetics. I dreamed of opening a beautiful spa, but ultimately as my skills were more in administration, I became regional sales director for Bell in the cellular and internet sector. I managed around fifty stores, and my career was doing very well.

But did your life change when you decided to start a family?

That’s right, I worked a lot, and I traveled all over Quebec. As we could afford it, I decided to stop working to devote myself to my family. This allowed us to travel and have a great time with the kids, which meant we became a tight clan. At the end of their primary school, I decided to become more actively involved in Luc’s business. I also trained to become a bodybuilding trainer, and also as a nutrition advisor because health and well-being are close to my heart.

What is your role within Luc Poirier’s company?

I’m his assistant, and I try to make his days easier. I help him with his paperwork, I answer his emails. When we have a new project in mind, I express my ideas and analyze the architect’s plans with him. […] I also sit on the board of directors of the Bruni Surin Foundation, so I’m quite busy.

Could you have imagined yourself one day living a life of luxury?

We all dream of having a bigger house, nice cars and gorgeous handbags, but it has never been a priority for me to have such a lifestyle. Does this make me happy? Of course, there are many advantages to living in luxury, I can’t say otherwise. But I succeeded before knowing Luc. When I was working, I never thought I would one day become a stay-at-home mom.

Are you asked for money a lot?

I would say almost every day, but we don’t give to individuals. Our philosophy is to give money to foundations that are close to our hearts and the money is then distributed to those who need it most. We’re pretty quiet on social media about it.

To recharge your batteries, it seems that you spend time in Florida, specifically in Fort Lauderdale, where you have a residence?

We love Florida because of the temperature and proximity to Quebec. Besides, Luc has already wanted to move to Florida. […] But for my part, I wasn’t too keen on the idea, because I am very attached to Quebec. This is where our roots, family and friends are. Plus, there’s not too much violence… I think we’re lucky to live in Quebec. Luc also likes it a lot, but I think that eventually, when the children are older, he would like to live in Florida six months of the year.

What do you want people to remember about your time on the show? Dream life?

I can’t wait to be able to share with the public the life we ​​have built together. We don’t hide from living a dream life. A comfortable existence where work allows us to realize our craziest projects. However, my greatest wealth remains my relationship and my family. Without them, the rest is worthless.

Isabelle Gauvin’s favorite addresses in Florida

Aventura Mall, in Aventura

When I want a nice shopping trip, I like to go to Aventura Mall. I prefer it to the Bal Harbor Shop which is not far away, as there is a greater selection of stores and boutiques.

Eataly, at Aventura

This is a chain of delicatessens that has just opened a branch at the Aventura Mall. Eataly offers all kinds of beautiful products that I always have a lot of fun discovering. I love cooking so these are the kind of establishments I frequent. Plus, you can grab a bite to eat on site.

Pura Vida Miami, in Fort Lauderdale

It’s the perfect place to have a healthy breakfast or lunch, especially if you’re a fan of smoothies. The atmosphere is fun, relaxed, I love the bohemian decor and the prices are affordable. There are Pura Vida Miami all over Florida.

Fancy James in Boca Raton

I really enjoy buying clothes at Fancy James in Boca Raton. The owner is hilarious, and he always finds beautiful clothes to sell me, whether it’s a $1000 dress or a $100 pair of jeans.

Estiatorio Milos, in Miami Beach

In Quebec, Milos is my favorite restaurant and good news, it also has a storefront in Miami Beach. At Milos everything is fresh, from meat to fish. It’s so succulent that even biting into one of their tomatoes is a taste experience in itself! It’s not for everyone, but it’s a classic!