Vancouver Magazine July/August 2023

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Culture

HOT TAKE

Let’s get this garden party started—find luxe sandals, sun-friendly skincare and more stylish picks here.

THE DISRUPTOR

Forget baby steps: Brood is changing the way we think about pre- and post-natal care in Vancouver.

THE TICKET

If you’re feeling a goblinshaped hole in your summer calendar, have we got the show for you.

ABOUT TOWN

Snapshots from the city’s most iconic social events from man on the scene, Fred Lee.

CITY INFORMER

13 16 20 24 28 78

Palm trees are tropical, right? So why are there so many in Vancouver?

33 52 26

ON THE RISE

Renters, rejoice: this bold, beautiful and locally made wallpaper brings a punch of personality to any space.

NIGHTCAP

This cocktail from Suyo restaurant requires investing some time—but it’s worth it.

INSIDE STORIES

Four extraordinarily creative Vancouverites give us a tour of the most treasured spaces in their homes.

NEIGHBOURHOODS BY DESIGN

Upping your decor game?

Here’s the hyper-specific design directory you need.

WEDDING VENUES & TRENDS

Nine gorgeous local wedding venues, plus 2023 trends to say “I do” to.

61 67

THE ULTIMATE VANCOUVER PATIO GUIDE

Never wonder where to go for happy hour again: we dive deep into the best patios in Vancouver.

ceo and group publisher Ryan Benn group vp , publishing and operations Nina Wagner

editorial

editorial director Anicka Quin

editors - in - chief Janine Verreault ( Vancouver magazine), Nathan Caddell ( BCBusiness )

associate editor Alyssa Hirose

assistant editors Kerri Donaldson, Rushmila Rahman

editor - at - large Stacey McLachlan

wine and spirits editor Neal McLennan

contributing editors Melissa Edwards, Amanda Ross, Julie Van Rosendaal

editorial interns Astrid Agbayani, Tanushi Bhatnagar, Kikachi Memeh email mail@vanmag.com

design

senior art director Jenny Reed

art directors Stesha Ho, Edwin Pabellon

advisory council

Angus An, chef/owner, Maenam restaurant; Victoria Emslie, senior manager corporate relations, Nicola Wealth; Gary Pooni, president, Pooni Group; Jen Riley, VP brand and communications, Bosa Properties; Joseph Thompson, co-founder and COO, Kits Eyewear; Khelsilem, council chairperson, Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw; Greg Zayadi, president, Rennie Group

sales representation

director of sales Anna Lee

senior media specialists Brianne Harper, Mira Hershcovitch, Charie G. Ilon, Amy LaJambe, Sheri Stubel

sales specialist Roberto Diaz email sales@canadawide.com

production / administration

group vp education and administration Jane Griffiths vp of hr / admin Joy Ginete-Cockle

production manager/digital ad coordinator Kim McLane production support technician Ina Bowerbank

director of circulation Tracy McRitchie

circulation Kelly Kalirai

executive assistant Hannah Dewar publisher emeritus Peter Legge, OBC, LL.D (HON) finance

group vp , finance Conroy Ing, CPA, CMA vp of finance Sonia Roxburgh, CPA, CGA

accounting Terri Mason, Eileen Gajowski

address Suite 130, 4321 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5C 6S7 tel 604-299-7311 fax 604-299-9188 web vanmag.com email sales@canadawide.com

VANCOUVER MAGAZINE is published seven times a year by Canada Wide Media Limited, Suite 130, 4321 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5C 6S7. Phone 604-299-7311; fax 604-299-9188. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Not responsible for unsolicited editorial material. Privacy Policy: On occasion, we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened organizations whose product or service might interest you. If you prefer that we not share your name and address (postal and/or email), you can easily remove your name from our mailing lists by reaching us at any of the listed contact points. You can review our complete Privacy Policy at Vanmag.com. Indexed in the Canadian Magazine Index by Micromedia Ltd. and also in the Canadian Periodical Index. International standard serial no. ISSN 0380-9552. Canadian publications mail product sales agreement #40068973. Printed in Canada by Mitchell Press, 8328 Riverbend Ct, Burnaby, B.C. V3N 5C9. Distributed by Coast to Coast Ltd.

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Investing in British Columbia.

We’re proud to call British Columbia home. Since 2001, we’ve invested $59 billion, and we’re committing another $18.5 million over the next five years to expand our world-leading networks throughout the province – powering local business, and enabling greater access to virtual healthcare, education and remote work.

Together, let’s make the future friendly.

telus.com/ConnectingCanada

Victoria Rabbitt , Senior Operations Nicole McLaren , Founder Raven Reads Kamloops, BC

Ed Note

Welcome Home

back in may, when we held our first meeting with Vanmag’s newly appointed advisory council (a few of whom happen to work in the real estate industry), they had one key piece of advice: enough with the real estate talk. It’s admittedly hard to get through any conversation in Vancouver without bringing up the housing crisis. (I guess I’m breaking our first advisory council rule already.) Affordability, low inventory, high mortgage rates... there’s certainly no shortage of issues to discuss. On top of that, our editorial team had already decided that this summer edition would focus on homes.

Still, as we started planning, we took their suggestion to heart and decided to look at housing from a fresh perspective: we flipped the script and formed this issue into one that celebrates how we live now.

So when we interviewed the four fascinating Vancouverites we’re featuring in this issue (starting on page 33), we didn’t chat about the foreign buyers tax, or the challenges of renovating amid supply-chain disruptions, or even how much their properties cost. (Although we couldn’t help but wonder: how do they afford this? It’s a local tendency, right?) Instead, we asked them to tell us about their favourite room in their house, and what makes it special. And one thing quickly became clear: what matters most is universal—designing a home that inspires you, having a safe space to make memories with your loved ones and feeling a sense of community.

Which, in the end, circles back to why we pay so much to live here (sorry, advisory council, I’m doing it again). The true value of Vancouver’s real estate lies not in its physical structures, but rather in the incredible people and neighbourhoods that shape our city.

I also want to take a moment to introduce myself, as this is my first official issue serving as editor-in-chief of Vancouver magazine. I’m one of those rare folks who was born and raised right here in the Lower Mainland (shout-out to Burnaby) and have lived downtown for more than 20 years. I look forward to sharing my lens on the city with you while also honouring the more than 50-year legacy of this magazine. And while I have worked at Canada Wide Media for more than 15 years on various publications and have sat beside my extraordinarily talented colleagues on the Vanmag team for the past five, this is my first opportunity to work with them. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the incredibly warm welcome—thank you for making me feel at home.

Coming Up Next Issue

So-Fun City

Let’s dispel the myth that Vancouver is a no-fun city: we’ll be sharing insider info on the coolest events and venues—and the people behind them—to show that Vancouverites do indeed know how to have a good time.

Vancouver’s Best Sammies

As Fred Penner sang, “sandwiches are beautiful, sandwiches are fine.” And, just in time for the backto-school season, we’ll be rounding up the tastiest bread-and-filling combos in the city—from bao to banh mi and more.

On the Web

Is There a Distinctly “Vancouver” Watch?

YVR has quietly become a major centre for buying watches. Writer Neal McLennan susses out three timepieces, at three very different price points, as candidates for the title of the city’s signature watch.

Culture

Summer has arrived in our fair city, and with it comes all that’s bright and bold. Turn the page to find stylish and sunny shopping picks, Vancouver-made wallpaper that instantly levels up your space, behind-the-scenes deets on a goblin-ified rendition of Macbeth and the latest, greatest and local-est resource for birth and postpartum.

Summer Days Sit pretty in Paola Lenti’s Kabà outdoor furniture collection. From $1,640, living space.com

Culture Hot Take

Garden State

The backyard beckons this summer; here’s your elevated party prep.

NOW OPEN

Poppy Barley

2144 W 4th Ave.

The real luxury in Western Canadian shoe brand Poppy Barley? Its fairly priced leather and vegan leather shoes and accessories are all made sustainably and made to last. poppybarley.com

1. Skip the stilettos in favour of Chanel’s F/W 2023/24 pre-collection grass-friendly sandals—they’re dressed in summery sunset hues of burgundy, red, orange and yellow. Price upon request, chanel.ca 2. Pretty in pink, the new Rose Confetti rosy lip balm by Hermès offers a barely there sheen that’s enriched with antioxidant mulberry extract, while sesame seed and raspberry seed oils moisturize. $94, hermes.com 3. Dress for success in Reformation’s eco-forward Emerick frock featuring a CO2 footprint that’s 19 percent smaller than its conventional counterparts. $278, thereformation.com

4. Loewe creative director Jonathan Anderson’s new collection of home scents evokes a botanical garden with candles, diffusers and soap-on-a-rope in fresh fragrances like cucumber, honeysuckle and juniper berry. From $80, holtrenfrew.com

5. It’s always party time when you’re wearing the Palladio Edition Tonda GT, an haute horlogerie collab between Palladio and fine Swiss watchmaker Parmigiani Fleurier in celebration of the local jeweller’s 25th anniversary. $28,500, palladiojewellers.com 6. Stop and smell the roses with Aerin’s limited-edition Rose de Grasse Joyful Bloom beauty essentials set, including rose lip conditioner, rose hand-and-body cream and eau de parfum in geranium leaf, pink pepper and Turkish rose. $175, aerin.com

by Amanda Ross

B.C.’s Veterinary Medicine Field in Crisis

program. In September 2022, the Foundation launched its Fall Fundraising Campaign in support of VTEC students. The Foundation has since raised $260,000 to establish three annual bursaries of $3,000 in perpetuity.

“Students in financial need will have access to bursaries from our Fall Campaign, which reduces stress and allows them to focus on their studies,” explains VTEC Program Coordinator Dr. Jennifer Wakeling. “This leads to better mental health and helps ensure their success within the program.”

Every year, these bursaries will cover one full semester of tuition for three student recipients entering their second year of the VTEC program—a challenging term with the most intensive practical courses.

The veterinary medicine field in British Columbia is facing a shortage of qualified Registered Veterinary Technicians (RVTs), resulting in burnout among those within the profession and a lack of accessible health care for our four-legged family members. Moreover, the BC SPCA has raised concerns about the veterinary shortage and the effect it has on pet owners in B.C. as they struggle to access animal care.

RVTs form the backbone of veterinary medicine. They help veterinarians diagnose animals and treat them as prescribed. They also take blood samples, run dental X-rays, administer anesthesia and much more. Because they care for many different species, the breadth of knowledge and skill they require is extraordinary. But too many pets

need care, and there aren’t enough qualified RVTs available to treat them.

The current shortage presents RVTs with many challenges: burnout, compassion fatigue and an increase in mental health struggles, among others. Dozens of students across B.C. train to enter this profession yearly. Unfortunately, there are not enough Veterinary Technology (VTEC) graduates in B.C. to fulfil the increasing demand for animal care services. One way to mitigate the shortage is to strengthen pathways to education and financially support VTEC students during their studies.

The Douglas College Foundation is tackling the RVT shortage by removing financial barriers to education for students enrolled in t he Veterinary Technology (VTEC)

“Future generations of veterinary technology students need access to meaningful financial support,” explains Cheryl Bosley, Director of Philanthropy at Douglas College Foundation. “It’s essential to invest in the health and wellness of those in the veterinary profession and in their contributions to the animals they care for.”

The Douglas College Foundation would like to thank those who supported the Fall Campaign for Veterinary Technology students.

To learn about the full impact of the Fall Campaign, QR code.

@douglascollege

@douglascollege

@douglascollege

The Douglas College Foundation addresses the veterinary shortage by supporting veterinary technology students as they prepare for their careers

PHOTO CREDIT: ELAINE INNES

Culture The Disruptor

Labour of Love

Brood’s progressive pre- and post-partum care delivers a bundle of joy to B.C. families.

by Stacey McLachlan

Lizzy Karp may be one-third of the team behind Vancouver family-care agency Brood. But, two years ago, she only knew one thing about doulas. “I was aware that Erykah Badu was a

doula, and that was about it,” she laughs.

But—as we all well know by now—a pandemic can change things. Today, Karp and partners Emma Devin and Gillian Damborg are spreading the doula gospel via their modern, inclusive, community-driven doula and education services.

Devin brings the handson experience and educator skillset: they’re a full-spectrum doula with a decade-plus of experience, one who supported friends Damborg and Karp during their respective 2020

births. “It was an... intimate moment,” says Devin, thoughtfully. “We got to know each other really well.”

If you, like Karp once was, are new to the idea of doula-ing: it’s the act of caretaking before, during and after a birth, in whatever unique form that might take for a birther and their family. “I saw Emma support Gill through her pregnancy and postpartum mental health and feeding stuff, and I just thought it was so wonderful to see someone I loved be so supported,” says Karp. She saw

something special in that level of personal, thoughtful care, particularly in the thick of a lonely lockdown, when friends and family weren’t able to be part of the experience.

And so, in midst of the pandemic, a big idea was born (alongside Damborg’s and Karp’s happy, healthy babies). “It’s like, ‘A doula and two new moms walk into a bar... oh wait, we can’t walk in, it’s the pandemic, so instead we walk into a park and we dream the future that we want,’” says Karp. That future was one where birthers and families feel cared for and supported and respected, every step of the way; one where they can find reliable, accessible care that isn’t rooted in fear.

Karp and Damborg applied their marketing, strategy and branding expertise to Devin’s experience and talents as a care lead and educator, and then there was Brood: a labour of love. Today, Brood’s bold and beautiful mission statement is that “care is a radical and powerful act.” “We do this because giving and receiving care

We do this because giving and receiving care changes us. It’s proven to give us purpose, support our mental health and resilience, and give us the energy to show up for our families, our work and our communities.”

RADICAL CARE

The dream team delivering family care to BCers: (from left to right) Gillian Damborg, Lizzy Karp and Emma Devin. ALEXA MAZARELLO

Construction on the largest hospital redevelopment in BC’s history has begun.

The new St. Paul’s Hospital and Clinical Support and Research Centre on the Jim Pattison Medical Campus will usher in a new era in health care that will drive innovation and save lives.

Find out how at helpstpauls.com/newstpauls

Artistic rendering of the Jim Pattison Medical Campus. For depiction purposes only.

Culture The Disruptor

changes us. It’s proven to give us purpose, support our mental health and resilience, and give us the energy to show up for our families, our work and our communities,” says Karp. The Vancouver-based organization redefines the meaning of family care, creating an ongoing community of birth workers and parents of all stripes. (Transand queer-competent care is a huge pillar for Brood.) “We want families to access care in ways that work for them, with language that supports them, that meets them where they’re at,” Devin explains.

And meet them, they have. In just over a year, Brood has served more than 300 families, via a care team of 40 doulas and courses that strive to take care of families from those early days of pregnancy (or miscarriage) into that roller-coaster first year of parenthood. But what’s on offer here is more than simply prenatal education—it’s an opportunity for connection. For instance, Brood recently hosted a sound

bath session with Oto Healing. “We hung out, read some tarot cards,” says Devin. And on Family Day, the Brood community came out in full force for complimentary photos—capturing playful portraits of whatever family might mean to them.

Those touchy-feely moments, though, are backed by science, particularly in Brood’s online and IRL classes and

FAMILY MATTERS

On Family Day, Brood offered a complimentary photo session with Hana Pesaut—just one of the communitybuilding events Brood provides beyond the classroom.

workshops. “We’re pushing against that hippie stereotype,” says Karp. “These are supersmart, specialized courses.” A clinical advisory board reviews the courses to ensure medical accuracy and safety.

Naturally, there are the birthprep courses, but Brood takes a holistic approach to reproductive health and family-rearing: a toolkit for those who work in the

abortion space; an endometriosis workbook; support for perinatal mood disorders. Many of the resources are free. “We have this network of amazing educators and are using them to help create resources that don’t exist because of sexism and many other isms,” says Karp. These resources also intentionally offer representation (in imagery and language) for those who don’t typically see themselves in the birth conversation—whether that’s queer or non-binary parents, single parents or those using a surrogate.

Beyond the families who use Brood’s services, you’ll find a parallel (though sometimes overlapping) community of doulas: a network of careworkers who are being mentored, supported and legitimized by the livingwage-certified Brood.

Traditionally, doulas are unregulated; existing information about the industry is hazy at best. “We don’t know how many people out there practice, or who they care for,” explains Karp. “But, anecdotally, many burn out in five years.” Working in isolation, running a small business, offering such emotionally intense care—it’s a lot to handle solo. “It’s really, really nice to be able to uplift and validate that type of work,” says Devin. Down the road, the Brood crew is launching a doula training program in 2024 and expanding beyond B.C. to offer value-aligned doula care around the country.

But that’s the future. Right now, with their newborn business, the Brood brood is trying to live in the moment and appreciate that their dream of a better way to birth has come true. “It’s the simple things,” Devin says. “When we have a prenatal class, everybody’s nervous at first, and by the end, people say they’re excited. Birth is not this terrifying looming thing anymore. That’s so impactful.”

When it’s time to say goodbye to airline hassles and to hours wasted on the road,

When you would prefer to reach several locations in a single day,

When you want predictable, safe, and efficient air travel, without the cost or burden of purchasing or managing an entire aircraft, Then it’s time for AeroShares.

DEPARTING FROM: VANCOUVER, BC

Table shows optimal travel times. Assumes 1 hr airport arrival for airline flights, and non-stop driving. Destinations not served by airlines combine flight and driving times.

Culture The Ticket

Toil and Trouble

Three witches weren’t enough: this summer, Shakespeare’s famous play-that-mustnot-be-named is bringing goblins to the Vancouver stage.

by Alyssa Hirose

Shakespeare with a twist is a tradition at Bard on the Beach. Case in point: this season includes Julius Caesar thrust into 2023 (do you think Brutus would go viral on TikTok?) and a jukebox musical version of As You Like It set to the sweet tunes of The Beatles. But even for the boundary-pushing Bard, this year’s production of Macbeth is twisted.

Stage manager Lili Beaudoin puts it best: “The goblins are goblinizing it.” The Calgaryborn Goblin: Macbeth (created

by Spontaneous Theatre Company) tells the story of three mischievous, wrinkly creatures who discover a copy of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Predictably, they decide to put on a play—but in a wildly unpredictable fashion.

“The goblins add a really fun element of misbehaviour,” says Beaudoin. The Vancouver-based actor and improvisor is both stage managing the actual production and playing the stage manager of the goblin’s play-within-a-play, so her role

is marked with both behindthe-scenes responsibility and improvised mischief.

The goblins themselves wear striking, Hollywood-grade masks—“They are so realistic, it’s very freaky: I can’t take my eyes off of them,” says Beaudoin. It’s a sinister look that audiences will experience up close as the goblins mingle around in the lobby pre-show. The creepy (but endearing) creatures make their own creative edits to the text, resulting in a delightfully unique experience for viewers.

“I don’t think it’s going to be like anything they’ve ever seen,” says Beaudoin. bardonthebeach.org

GOBLIN: MACBETH

DATES August 19 to September 17

VENUE Bard on the Beach’s Howard Family Stage

COST From $30

The goblins add a really fun element of misbehaviour.”

Tomorrow and Tomorrow

Lili Beaudoin (far right) plays the stage manager in Bard on the Beach’s upcoming goblinified Macbeth.

PHOTO: TERRY MANZO IMAGE DESIGN: EMILY COOPER

Culture The Ticket

Food Fight

Notch8’s new afternoon tea offering invites you to embrace your inner artist.

Local books to read in the local sunshine.

UNBROKEN

Angela Sterritt

Past Vanmag Power 50 honouree Angela Sterritt has just launched a memoir: add it to your reading list, stat. In her book, the acclaimed Gitxsan journalist shares her personal stories as well as investigative work she has done while reporting on cases of murdered and missing Indigenous women. greystonebooks.com

GO

Here’s your summer 2023 bucket list.

THE ART OF AFTERNOON TEA

DATES Now through September 4

VENUE Notch8

COST $74

They say don’t play with your food—but Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is encouraging you to paint with it. Notch8’s new afternoon tea service is an immersive, pop art-inspired spectacular, with bold and colourful teatime bites that include a cheesecake decorated with edible paint. Time to bring out your inner Cake Boss. notch8-dining.com

2

TO HAVE AND TO HEIST

Sara Desai

Vancouver Island-based Sara Desai’s fourth romance novel drops this July—and a story that follows a jewellery heist during a big summer wedding (with some sexiness involved, of course) feels like the perfect beach read. massybooks.com

CREATE! ARTS FESTIVAL

DATES July 22 to 23

VENUE Multiple locations

COST From $5

Workshops at this awesome east-side arts festival run the creative gamut: think ceramics, painting, printmaking, glass fusing, Salish singing, storytelling and more. Plus, local artists are offering studio tours, and the onsite art zone features food trucks, wine and beer. createartsfestival.ca

AMBLESIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL

DATES August 19 and 20

VENUE Ambleside Park

COST From $215

Recovering angsty teens, time to say it is so: Weezer is headlining the Ambleside Music Festival this year along with Third Eye Blind. The lineup also features Said the Whale, Bahamas, Finger Eleven and Saint Motel. amblesidefestival.com

UNCERTAIN KIN

Janice Lynn Mather

Eighteen short stories make up this adult debut from local author Janice Lynn Mather. (She already has two popular YA novels.) The surreal, emotional subject matter is decidedly grown-up: one tale involves blood pouring from faucets. irondogbooks.com

The powerhouse of energy and life-long vibrancy

What are mitochondria, and how do we spark them?

They are like very tiny powerplants that produce energy in every living cell in our bodies. On average, every cell has 1,500 mitochondria. Can you imagine that for their extremely small size, it’s been said that they produce, gram for gram, 10,000–50,000 times more energy than the sun?

To say that mitochondria are important to human health is grossly understating their role in our

survival. We literally would not be alive without them. They convert our food into energy, so that every other function of our body can occur as it needs to. As we age, our ability to create healthy mitochondria to support our energy demands diminishes. And because about 90% of our cellular energy is produced by mitochondria, this decline can cause significant health issues.

Culture About Town

Bright Lights

Doctors, local celebrities and communitybuilders show up to support health care at this star-studded celebration.

1. Alice Chung, Echo Wu and Judy Leung chaired the 2023 Time to Shine Gala presented by Peterson and Viva Pharmaceutical.

THE SOCIAL CALENDAR

JULY 17

Aurora Gala

Raise a glass at the Friends for Life Society’s summer soiree. Join a stylish group atop the spectacular rooftop garden of the Vancouver Club for an evening filled with music, fine food and entertainment. vancouverfriendsforlife.ca

JULY 29

Love Is Love Gala White Rock’s marquee Pride fundraiser party is an unforgettable celebration of diversity and inclusion, including drag performances, live and silent auction and more. whiterockpride.com

4. Julia and Donald Leung of Donald’s Fine Foods ignited the evening of giving with a donation of $1 million. Major gifts also came from Johnny Fong, John and Linda Wong, Rick and Lauren Ilich and Jason and Emily Ko.

5. After a pandemic pause, the gala returned with television personalities Todd Talbot and Lisa Wu hosting the marquee fundraiser at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel.

6. Singer Shannon Chung and pianist Libby Yu performed at the sold-out soiree. Over seven years, the Time to Shine gala has raised over $22.6 million in support of Vancouver Coastal Health’s most urgent needs.

AUGUST 10

Picnic on the Pier

A magical evening overlooking the Pacific on the iconic White Rock Pier, this is the ultimate al fresco cocktail party featuring the most impressive longtable dinner. Proceeds will benefit Peace Arch Hospital. pahfoundation.ca

by Fred Lee

VGH & UBC HOSPITAL FOUNDATION’S TIME TO SHINE GALA

2. Anson Realty principals Stephen and Grace Kwok were among the Chinese Canadian community leaders giving back bigtime to transform health care in B.C.

3. VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation CEO Angela Chapman thanked the 400 guests for raising $4,123,500 in support of world-leading talent such as Dr. Brian Kwon, a spine surgeon at Vancouver General Hospital.

Culture On the Rise

Off the Wall

Vancouver-based Otto Studio masters the art of renter-friendly fabulousness.

by Alyssa Hirose

This city gets enough grey. At least that’s what Otto Studio founders Jen Cook and Hannah Lee believe: their collection of wallpapers ranges from funky florals to rainbow pixels to psychedelic squiggles. “Our home spaces have such a huge impact on our mental health and on our mood—having

colours that resonate with us is really important,” says Cook.

“In our generation, we just see grey all the time,” adds Lee.

The pair first launched their Vancouver-based removable (read: renter-friendly) wallpaper studio in 2022. The bright, bold and even bizarre patterns have resonated deeply with Vancouverites—particularly millennials and Gen Z. Cook and Lee, who first met when they were both working for a local fintech company, in part credit “dopamine dressing” to their success: the trend dictates that you can improve your mood by wearing clothes you love.

“Younger generations are really just craving the fun and the

STICKY BUSINESS

According to

OUR FAVE

energy and the colour—in their clothing and in their home,” says Cook, who designs the products herself (with the exception of capsule collections: the brand has collaborated with creatives including local artist Tierney Milne and NYC-based designer Zoe Schlacter).

Otto Studio’s wallpaper is printed in Langley. According to Cook and Lee, the superthick, low-tack product is the ideal non-permanent wallcovering: it peels off cleanly and won’t damage the paint underneath. Cook’s background in graphic design left her heavily influenced by the Bauhaus philosophy, and she says that she’s inspired by the women of the movement in

Otto Studio’s geometric Cirque wallpaper 10 square feet). The product is sold in two-foot-wide rolls, with vertical measurement choices of five, nine or 12 feet.

particular (like German textile artist Anni Albers). Retro ’70s patterns and pop art also play a role in Otto Studio’s portfolio.

If the idea of dedicating an entire wall in playful pattern triggers your commitment issues, the papermakers also offer more subtle options (wall decals and border frames that provide an understated pop of colour). For renters or owners, daring or discreet, Otto Studio is determined to bring a sunny vibe to Vancouver—year-round.

Hannah Lee and Jen Cook (above), Otto Studio wallpaper peels off cleanly after two years of use. The Poppy Fields pattern (left) is a collab with artist McKenzie Parrott.

Culture City Informer

we’ve got beautiful beaches and palms swaying in the wind, then this can’t be rain pooling in my shoes—it must be sweat?! And I’m loving it?!

Much of our city’s delightfully delusional landscaping is the work of the Pacific Northwest Palm and Exotic Plant Society— friends of the fronds, if you will. Inspired by a few forward-thinking gardeners of the 1960s, who independently brought some choice windmill palms into Lower Mainland landscapes, the Palm Society was founded to spread the word even further about the beauty of palms. (An easier task, to be fair, than, say, what the Skunk Cabbage Society might have faced.)

Despite their reputation as sun-seekers, windmill palms— which are native to China—actually fit just fine into our Canadian climate. (It’s not B.C.’s first palm-rodeo, in fact: 40 million years ago, our own CanCon palm trees were growing around the base of Burnaby Mountain.)

With compact root systems and a tolerance for a variety of growing conditions, windmill palms are as chill as you would imagine a palm tree would be if it were to come to life, Frosty the Snowman-style, to teach us some important lessons about friendship and also probably rollerblading. Good vibes only, brah.

Why Does Vancouver Have Palm Trees?

Unless you’re performing a medical procedure on me, I’m a big proponent of faking it ’til you make it. Which is why I for one support the presence of palm trees here in Vancouver, a city that is famously not Hawaii.

by Stacey

Some might say it’s cruel to taunt soggy Vancouverites in the throes of SAD with reminders that they do not live in a tropical paradise, but I say a tropical paradise is a state of mind! If

And so, in 1990, the Palm Society spearheaded a public planting project at Beach and Jervis, led by president Rudi Pinkowski, an amazing champion for palm tree rights who grew up in a perpetual winter behind the Iron Curtain and has been aggressively advocating for fun-inthe-sun ever since. Sixteen trees were sponsored by his equally passionate fellow Palm Society members, and Vancouver Park Board staff did the planting—

McLachlan

illustration by Byron Eggenschwiler

The city isn’t exactly a tropical paradise—so what’s with all the pretty palms?

Visit the Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale

The Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale is revolutionizing the healthcare experience for Canadian patients with personalized care and cutting-edge technology

Scottsdale, Arizona, renowned for its world-class healthcare, is home to a concierge orthopedic joint replacement practice, specifically tailored to meet the needs of Canadian patients. For more than 15 years, this innovative group has been providing exceptional care, convenience and personalized attention to those seeking hip and knee replacement procedures.

“With a dedicated focus on patient satisfaction and outcomes, our practice is redefining the healthcare experience for Canadians in Scottsdale,” says Dr. Shane Martin, principal at the Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale. “We offer a patient-centered approach, prioritizing personalized care and attention.”

Patients from Canada can expect an exceptional level of service and support throughout their journey, from initial consultation to post-operative care. A team of highly skilled orthopedic surgeons, nurses and support staff is committed to providing comprehensive care, ensuring patients feel comfortable and well-informed every step of the way.

At the forefront of medical innovation, the practice offers state-of-the-art robotic technology and employs the latest surgical techniques.

“We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care and embracing innovative technologies that can positively impact our patients’ lives,” Dr. Martin says.

His dedication can be seen with the opening of a new 13,000-square-foot surgical facility, equipped with cutting-edge robotic technology dedicated to joint replacement procedures. Dr. Martin has been at the forefront of robotic-assisted joint replacement since 2009 and has successfully performed over 4,000 procedures.

“In addition to its precision and accuracy, the robotic system also allows for minimally invasive techniques, which means smaller incisions, reduced scarring and less trauma to surrounding tissues,” Dr. Martin says. “This translates into less post-operative pain and a quicker return to daily activities for our patients.”

Recognizing the crucial role of rehabilitation in the recovery process, the Joint Replacement Center of Scottsdale provides comprehensive post-operative care. Highly trained physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists work closely with patients, tailoring rehabilitation programs to their specific needs and goals. This personalized approach aids in a faster and smoother recovery, enabling patients to regain mobility and resume their daily activities as quickly as possible.

By combining expertise, convenience and personalized attention, this practice aims to deliver exceptional outcomes and exceed patient expectations. For Canadians seeking orthopedic joint replacement procedures, Scottsdale’s premier concierge practice provides an unparalleled opportunity to receive top-quality care in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Culture City Informer

one large windmill palm and three mini ones grouped at each corner of the garden. Sure, they don’t offer much shade or release much oxygen, but these palms serve a much more important purpose: making your relatives from Manitoba jealous. And honestly? I can’t think of a better use of our tax dollars.

Obviously, the new addition to the beach district was a hit, because what kind of party pooper do you have to be to get mad about free-ass palm trees? From there, Pinkowski and the Palm Society (band name alert!) became hungry for more. They relocated palms from the Vancouver Aquarium to Sunset Beach; they rescued unwanted palms (adopt don’t shop!) from developer sites and took them down to the sand where they’d be happier; they discovered palm trees in planters on the deck of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre—a gift from Vancouver’s sister city of Odesa, Ukraine, of course, because what do you get the city that has everything—and set them free. We owe a debt of gratitude to these palm vigilantes and their noble cause of creating picturesque beach days for all.

All told, the Society has sponsored 100 palm trees in the neighbourhood over the past three decades. But their enthusiasm for building a beachier beach has inspired others to plant palms, too, and today, there are more than 200 windmill palms in the English Bay area alone, with plenty to be found on properties elsewhere. (Pinkowski estimates 10,000 in the Lower Mainland.) But wherever you find them, you’re a glance away from being transported to a tropical paradise. One look at a palm on the front lawn of a South Granville historic apartment complex or gracing the boulevards of Yaletown and you are instantly taken away to the balmy shores of the exotic, intoxicating West End.

thoughtful is a trusted guide

Inside Stories

Door’s open—come on in. Four Vancouver creatives reveal their favourite rooms and most prized possessions.

by KERRI DONALDSON, ALYSSA HIROSE, STACEY MCLACHLAN AND JANINE VERREAULT

photography by TANYA GOEHRING

Fairytale Finesse

“I’ve used lots of British brands here, like this House of Hackney wallpaper,” says Jackie Kai Ellis, pictured with son Kai. “Even the light fixture in the little window nook is from a British designer. This house is from around the 1930s, and back then a lot of Brits were in this area. So I felt like I wanted to be in keeping with that style.”

Cozy Cream Cabinetry

“The cabinets were in good shape. They were originally a periwinkle blue, but we just repainted them the colour of clotted cream and redid the hardware. From there we thought, ‘Okay, let’s go with a Cotswold-type wallpaper.’”

LOVE LIVES HERE

There’s always a beautiful dual intention that goes into designing a space: finding that sweet spot between the way you actually live and the way you want to live. And multi-hyphenate Jackie Kai Ellis—author, TV and podcast host, entrepreneur, pastry chef, creative woman-about-town, etc., etc.,—walks the tightrope between aspiration and actuality with impeccable style in her South Granville heritage home.

But before her now-15-monthold son Kai came along, Ellis and her husband Joe Chan were happily living in a very different space downtown. “I had imagined this life with my husband where we were going to be this fabulous cosmopolitan couple. I demolished the walls so we could just have a big dining space for entertaining, and everything was all black and hardwood and concrete,” says Ellis. “And then just a few weeks after our wedding it was, like, ooh, I think I’m pregnant.”

And when their little family expanded and they needed to rethink the number of sharp objects and low-hanging accessories in their decor (“The tables were just covered in books and knitting needles,” laughs Ellis), her eye turned toward a new vision for the future—one with this English cottage-inspired kitchen at the centre: “I think, ‘What do I want my Tuesdays to look like in five years?’ and design for that.” That meant freshly painted Clark and Kensington Cottage White shaker cabinets that practically glow in the warm morning sun, a hard-wearing marble countertop that will patina beautifully over time and

a whimsical animal-print wallpaper that’s sure to inspire a million stories when little Kai is older.

One more example: instead of replacing the kitchen window seat with more storage (the usual move in a Vancouver home), Ellis installed a reading lamp above the cozy nook. “I just kept on imagining: what will Kai’s life look like? I want him to get a book and sit here; I want to have mornings having coffee while he’s telling me something,” she says. “It’s all these tiny little things.”

—Stacey McLachlan

All Lit Up

“The lights above the island are from Huey, a company in Toronto. They’re ceramic, and the inside is glazed.”

“ Itsumo (279 E 6th Ave., itsumo.ca) is amazing. It’s a Japaneseowned store; the owner curates all these amazing little Japanese things—clothes, housewares. It’s one of the most beautiful stores I’ve ever been in.”

Marble-ous Materials

“The marble countertop is from Jade Marble in Richmond. The island here is open to the family room—it’s the perfect place to entertain and create a real home for my new family. (It’s also great for dramatic arrangements.) The marble sink is a find from an Etsy shop in Turkey called AegeanMarble.”

Stylish Stools

“The bar stools came from an Etsy shop that has since closed, but what’s strange is that they mysteriously arrived one at a time through the mail.”

Simple and Chic

“Sometimes this Cadine bowl is full of fruit, other times, a planted flower arrangement. My favourite mugs are from Cadine, too.”

Since 1864

Quanjude Beijing Duck

Michelin-Starred Restaurant With Yanghe Baijiu

The only Michelin one-star Chinese restaurant in Canada, iDen & QuanJuDe Beijing Duck House, is partnering with China's famous Baijiu brand, Yanghe Corporation, to host a Beijing Duck and Chinese Baijiu summer tasting event from now until the end of August. QuanJuDe Roast Duck, a national-level intangible cultural heritage, combined with millennium-old Baijiu, will showcase a feast of Chinese history and culture for all food enthusiasts.

QuanJuDe can be traced back to 1864 originated from the famous Qianmen Street in Beijing. Strictly adhered to traditional techniques and controlled every step of the roast duck preparation, resulting in thin and crispy skin, tender and juicy meat, and a delightful aroma. Mao Zedong personally wrote the inscription "QuanJuDe must be preserved forever" for the restaurant. During Mao's tenure, he frequently hosted foreign leaders at QuanJuDe, earning praise for "duck diplomacy" from many presidents. Richard Nixon was the first US president to visit China. In 1972, he enjoyed the renowned Beijing Roast Duck accompanied by Baijiu at QuanJuDe, expressing great satisfaction and admiration. This meal was considered a milestone in China-US friendly relations and enhanced QuanJuDe's international reputation. George Bush, with his wife and children, dined at QuanJuDe multiple times and became good friends with the roast duck chef, Shunli Guo. On Bush's 87th birthday, Shunli Guo was specially invited to Texas, USA to roast Beijing Duck.

The origin of Chinese high percentage liquor Baijiu can be traced back to over a thousand years ago, in the 9th century BC during the Western Zhou Dynasty. According to historical records, people in that period began using rice and other grains to brew liquor. Yanghe Corporation, established in 1949, is the finest Baijiu in China and ranks among the top three in annual sales, with $6 billion CAD in sales in 2022 and $3 billion CAD in the first quarter of this year. It is highly cherished by the Chinese people.

RSVP: 236-477-7777

www.quanjude1864.com

Summer is the most beautiful season in Vancouver, Yanghe Corporation is offering a special promotion from now until the end of August. Every Tuesday, iDen & QuanJuDe Beijing Duck House invite everyone to enjoy a complimentary tasting of various types of Baijiu ranging from 33.8% to 52% alcohol, also specially mixed Yanghe cocktails from iDen & Lounge. The event includes activities such as visiting the restaurant to learn about Chinese ancient architecture, a demonstration of the century-old Beijing duck slicing technique, and a presentation on the history and culture of Chinese Baijiu. Our professional sommeliers will provide you with the highest quality of service. Whether you are a devoted fan of Beijing duck or simply curious about Chinese Baijiu, this event promises to be a unique culinary and white spirit cultural journey.

RESERVATION HOTLINE: 236-477-7777

WEBSITE: QUANJUDE1864.COM

Handmade for Home

“My dining table is one of the last pieces I built before work got busy again,” says chef Angus An, pictured with his son Aidan, partner Kate and dog Cookie. “During COVID, I became obsessed with furniture making, more specifically hardwood and traditional Japanese joinery. This table is inspired by the late Japanese architect George Nakashima. I had so much fun making this project, and from start to finish this piece took several months.“

Bright Idea

“It was my dream to have a set of Bocci lights at home. After I finished my dining table, I felt like the room had finally come together, and I spoke with Bocci about what would work best—together we decided on 21.21. I absolutely love these lights.”

BLOCK PARTY

Angus An has a lot of Lego. Even a quick scan of his cozy East Van abode yields detailed models of quaint neighbourhoods, intergalactic transportation and historic structures (the massive Colosseum is a standout). And upon closer inspection, there’s even more. The delicate pink orchids? Lego. The tiny dinosaur skeletons? Lego. The typewriter? Also Lego—and with working buttons.

“We don’t have a kitchen table, so we eat every meal in this room,” says An. It’s appropriate that his favourite space in the family home is where they eat— after all, the chef/owner of some of the Lower Mainland’s most obsessed-over restaurants (including our 2023 Best Thai Restaurant Award winner Maenam, New West gem Longtail Kitchen and two locations of casual fave Fat Mao Noodles) knows the value of sharing a good meal. “Food brings people together—that’s one of the reasons I got into cooking,” he says.

But when it comes to design, much of An’s dining room actually came together during a time when there wasn’t much cooking to be done (at least not in his restaurants). “During COVID, I started teaching myself woodworking... and for a year and a half, I was pretty much a full-time furniture maker,” he says with a laugh. It started with an LED wall sconce made from wood offcuts. As time went on, his projects became more meaningful and more complicated—from a liquor cabinet honouring a late carpenter friend to the room’s centrepiece: a bookmatched curly walnut dining room table. “With every project, I wanted to learn a new technique,” says An.

The craftsmanship may be traditional, but the building that takes place atop An’s furniture creations is decidedly more modern: the dining room is also where the

Brick by Brick

“We have way too much Lego in our house. I have donated a ton, but kept the ones that are meaningful. In our dining room, we have the Super Star Destroyer (pictured at top)—it was Aidan’s first Mega UCS (Ultimate Collector Series). When it was completed, it was actually bigger than him.”

True Colours

“This painting by Derek Dunlop was a piece commissioned for the opening of Gastropod [the West 4th restaurant that eventually rebranded, becoming Maenam]. Derek was a former student of Ken Lum, my former teacher and my business partner at that time. It’s an abstract painting of people feasting, and it always reminds me of the Gastropod days.”

chef and his 15-year-old-son Aidan build impressive, colourful, intricate worlds out of blocks. “Our holiday tradition has always been building Lego together,” he explains, “and each one of these modular houses represents one year of my son’s life, and the memories we share.” Every year they get one big Lego set and put it together as a family. Whether gathering for a celebratory meal, doing math homework or building the next colossal Lego masterpiece, this is where it happens. “This is the room we use the most,” says An. “It’s more than just a dining room.”

—Alyssa Hirose

STOMPING GROUND

“I love the souvlaki and paidakia at Loula’s Taverna and Bar (1608 Commercial Dr., loulastaverna .com). Another favourite is Merci Beaucoup Cafe (1468 Commercial Dr., mercibeaucoupcafe .com)—I was sad when Au Petit Café closed, but also happy to hear that their chef was opening a place near me. The crispy spring rolls, beef stew rice and signature pho are all great.”

Raise Your Glass

“My liquor cabinet was the first complex piece of furniture I built during COVID. My dear friend Jim was a great carpenter, and we always talked about building this piece together. Unfortunately, he passed away from cancer and I never got the chance to do this with him. During COVID I took the opportunity—and the inspiration from him—to teach myself, and this piece led to many others.”

Signed, Sealed, Displayed

“I had dinner at Michel Bras [in France] back in 2005—I was visiting one of my best friends, Hans, who was on the pastry team there. It was by far the most memorable meal of my life. Every piece of food had a purpose; everything was so simple, but so meaningful and so well-executed. I ended the dinner with a one-hour dessert course in the kitchen while they were cleaning up. The next morning the team took me porcini picking, and then we cooked breakfast with our trophies. It was the best culinary experience I have ever had. Michel signed both a cookbook and the menu for me.”

“ I cook a lot at home, and love to go to Persia Foods (1730 Commercial Dr., persiafoods.ca) and La Grotta Del Formaggio (1791 Commercial Dr., lagrottadelformaggio .com) for ingredients. At Persia Foods, you will find fresh herbs and vegetables as well as imported and rare spices. I go through a ton of olive oil at home—La Grotta has some of the best selections in the city, as well as really good dried pastas. I often finish my shopping off at Liberty Wines (1622 Commercial Dr., libertywinemerchants .com) for a bottle of champagne (or two) for dinner.”

Deeply Rooted

“I love this series of work, Ginseng Roots, from Evan Lee—the prints have so much detail and life. It’s important to support local artists. Evan is a friend of another artist I love, George Vergette. I have a couple of George’s pieces in the living room.”

TRANSFORM YOUR KITCHEN

the cabinets to the ceiling, added crown moulding, backsplash, a new pantry and floating shelves.

of a larger remodelling project,” Ness says. “Your new kitchen will truly be custom-made for you.”

Who wants a gorgeous new kitchen makeover? You do! Who wants a hefty price tag and the stress of managing several trades? That’s definitely not you. Serving the BC Lower Mainland and Edmonton, AB, 180 Kitchens is a premier kitchen cabinet refacing company that can make your dreams come true stressfree and in half the time as a full kitchen remodel. Sound great? We thought so.

“You might feel stuck in your current layout,” says Brittany Schroeder, business development and operations manager for 180 Kitchens. “We can work with your existing layout and cabinet boxes to create that modern kitchen renovation feel without the full remodel price tag.”

The Hybrid Kitchen

One of 180 Kitchens’ most popular offerings is the hybrid kitchen, which combines old and new components and can refer to the physical, including cabinetry, appliances and furniture and the aesthetic, which means layout, accessories and design.

In the hybrid kitchen project pictured, the team installed a large new island, extended

“We also converted the base cabinets to drawers, which improves functionality and is more ergonomic because you can see everything in your cabinet without reaching into the back,” says Amanda Ness, design consultant with 180 Kitchens. “The jumbo island with a seating overhang is a functional seating area that creates a more family feel in what was an awkward space. This provides more space to prepare family meals, while allowing the cook to engage with their guests.”

Designer Secrets

Ness points to simple tricks like concealing cabinet door hinges or installing larger doors to save time and cost while modernizing the look and feel of a space.

“Old school kitchen cabinet doors have the hinges on the outside; we add new, softclosing, concealed hardware, creating a more modern aesthetic,” she says. “New doors, hardware and drawer fronts completely update the kitchen.”

Many homeowners think their kitchen update options are limited to either painting existing doors or undergoing a full renovation. Cabinet refacing is a third option that more people should know about.

“We assess each kitchen individually and can rebuild certain components when it’s part

Full-kitchen service

As if new cabinet doors and drawers weren’t gorgeous enough, 180 Kitchens also provides full-service add-ons—how about a coffee bar, a sleek quartz countertop, a beautiful matching backsplash or open shelving? 180 Kitchens can do it all.

“We are a one-stop shop for many trades,” Schroeder says. “We hire and coordinate your plumber, electrician, tiler, countertop installer and more.”

Your ultimate kitchen makeover from 180 Kitchens is waiting for you! (Spoiler alert: it’s easier, less expensive, and more beautiful than you ever imagined.)

180 Kitchens hybrid kitchen makeover: Before

180 Kitchens hybrid kitchen makeover: After

STYLE DIARIES

It may seem like a contradiction coming from someone with a wardrobe full of high-end labels (Gucci, Ferragamo and Versace can be spotted within seconds of entering the walk-in), but Aleem Kassam, co-founder and principal of design firm Kalu Interiors, believes that style doesn’t have to break the bank. “I think that no matter what your budget is, style is indicative of how creative you can be,” he says.

Kassam’s creativity and flair permeate the stunning Gastown loft he renovated alongside his fiancé, Victor Kazakov, in 2020 and 2021, especially in his massive walk-in closet and dressing area, a place that seamlessly combines his passion for fashion and interior design. “So much of my life revolves around working and collaborating with both local designers and international designers, but also mixing fashion and jewellery from a variety of household brands. Accessories are a huge part of the way I curate myself, just like I curate spaces,” he says.

Kassam recognizes that not everyone has the means to have a closet as extravagant as his, especially in a city like Vancouver (at 200 square feet, it’s larger than most bedrooms and gives Carrie Bradshaw’s famous walk-in from Sex and the City a run for its money). However, he echoes what Queer Eye has been preaching for years: aesthetics influence all of our lives, and ultimately how we feel about ourselves.

“Fashion and shelter are two things that everyone interacts with daily, no matter your income level or where you

Fashion Forward

“One of my favourite things is working with, collaborating with and supporting local designers—we have so much talent in our own backyard, so why not start with your own community?” says designer Aleem Kassam (left), pictured with fiancé Victor Kazakov and golden Bengal cat Theos. “Because it’s difficult to choose just one, I’ll choose the one that is a 10-in-one, which is my convertible and modular custom suit and gown by Jason Matlo: a four-piece collection with endless options. It’s simply epic.”

The Ultimate Accessory

“I love my Gucci 100th-anniversary Centum bag in red felt (with matching slide-ons), which only became available in the Vancouver boutique the same day Victor proposed and we were engaged. On this day, Victor had the store privately opened for us after hours, and this bag immediately caught my eye, so I purchased it to mark the occasion—perfectly fitting for the day.”

Elevated Style

“I have these Stella McCartney Elyse platforms in several colours and styles because they all have a dramatically high sole, providing me a significant lift in height—the perfect way for me to get a little closer to Victor, who towers over me at sixfoot-two.”

The glam room also functions as a guest room with a smartly placed Murphy bed tucked behind the back wall.

live. Interiors have influence on our wellbeing and mental health. And clothing, very similarly: it’s that element of feeling comfortable in your own skin. I always tell people to look at fashion and spaces as aspirational. Design your home for where you want to go in life; dress for the career that you want. Both are ways to elevate not just your style, but inherently your goals and dreams.”

—Janine Verreault

STOMPING GROUND

“You’ll find me at the Lobby Lounge at the Fairmont Pacific Rim (1038 Canada Pl., fairmont.com). It’s my favourite spot in the city. It’s close to home, close to the water, the staff are amazing and I love the design.“

SHOP TALK

A Not-so-Modest Proposal

“This is a no-brainer. Victor designed my engagement ring with my uncle, who’s a well-known jewellery designer in New York. This Modern-Decostyle piece has a central 2.5-carat rectangular emerald-cut diamond in a raised centre semi-bezel setting, and not only signifies this special moment in our lives, but also perfectly complements me and my style: bold, unique and rare.”

“I absolutely love Obakki (1638 W 3rd Ave., obakki.com). I love the clean, minimalist and modern interpretations of cultural designs produced in a variety of regions, including South America and Africa. And I love that they support these local communities through conscious production and by ensuring that sustainable, handcrafted and unique pieces can be enjoyed around the world. I also love Annie Axtell (1616 Pandora St., annieaxtell.com), who does beautiful upholstery and cushion accents that are more playful and fun. For vintage finds, I started following a couple of new, local Instagram accounts. One is Kollection by Irie (instagram.com/ kollectionbyirie) and they have some really cool mid-century pieces.”

Treasure Chest

“This Qing dynasty jewellery cabinet was purchased from an antique store on South Granville that’s no longer there. It’s actually a silverware cabinet from the 19th century that I converted to use for jewellery, sunglasses and accessories. I love this item because it brings in the old with the new and perfectly organizes each and every item in its place.”

We give where we live.

At TELUS, we’re driving positive social change by building healthier and stronger communities for all.

Last year alone, we gave $125 million to charitable and community organizations and our team members volunteered 1.4 million hours.

Together, let’s make the future friendly.

telus.com/ impact

Bonding Brushstrokes

“The painting on their wall was done by one of Evaan’s aunts, Grace Afonso,” says stylist Luisa Rino, pictured with her daughters (clockwise from top) Mafusi, Nthati and Nthatisi and and their dad, photographer Evaan Kheraj. “She’s a talented artist and made this special for them. She’s currently working on another painting for the girls—a portrait of them.”

ROOM TO GROW

Picture this: a home bursting with life, thanks to a dynamic duo and their three pintsized powerhouses. Meet photographer Evaan Kheraj and fashion stylist Luisa Rino, a creative power couple who, six years ago, welcomed their three girls from Lesotho and turned their twosome into a lively family of five.

Their favourite spot in the house? “Our daughters’ shared bedroom,” says Kheraj. “There are beautiful pieces from their birth country in there. And it’s where we play cards, read books and have the sweetest nighttime conversations.” It’s also a place for them to come together as a family and connect. “It’s their room but it’s also a family room. We spend a lot of time together there,” he says. “We don’t have that culture where you close your room off—that room is just part of our house. It’s open.”

The room’s decor weaves a whimsical tapestry of African culture and family heritage, punctuated by the classic doll pile on one of the beds—a sight that harkens back to many a girl’s childhood. Resting on the ends of three Ikea beds (that somehow fit into the tiny space with ease) are each of their radiant Basotho traditional heritage blankets. A painting by an aunt adds colour and love to the walls. Stunning Shweshwe quilts, made by yet another talented aunt, lovingly cover each bed. On one side of the room, a tapestry and flag from the children’s birthplace cozy up to a sizeable map of Africa. On the other side, a playful pennant string and some colourful paper crafts wistfully dangle.

In Rino’s words, “Everything in here holds a story. They are pieces passed down; someone has made it with their own hands— pieces with a provenance that will last and you can pass them on to the next generation.” This room isn’t just stylish—it’s a living, breathing canvas, telling a beautiful tale.

—Kerri Donaldson

The Patchwork of Love

“The quilts were made by another talented aunt of Evaan’s, Great Aunt Tete. She bought the pattern and South African fabrics from Celeste Compion, the owner of Meerkat Trading. The pattern is called chakalaka, and it is also the name of a popular soup. These quilts are made using Lesotho’s Shweshwe fabric, named after King Moshoeshoe (also spelled Moshweshwe), who brought the country together. In African textiles, you can identify the different regions from the unique patterns.”

Tales Told in Thread

“The tapestry we found on Etsy, a small shop owned by a woman who had travelled all over and collected various items on her journeys. This is a tapestry made in Lesotho that depicts rural life there and many homes are still built this way. We bought the flag in Lesotho, on our first trip, from a small shop on the side of the road.”

Fashioned Memories

“I look for history or something that will be historical. It should have a story. Even the dresses they are wearing (which were made by a South African seamstress) were made for them for a specific occasion. I’m keeping the girls’ dresses for them and archiving them for when they’re older. There’s a dress in here that belonged to my youngest sister, and her one daughter is older now so it was passed on to me. Now, when Mafusi wears it, she can talk about her aunt and see pictures of her aunt wearing it back when she was a child, and she can feel that connection. (And what is family if not connection?) There are also many pieces made by Evaan’s mum—there’s a white dress that was just a shell and she added these beautiful sleeves to it.”

A Swing to the Past

“My

Wrapped in Heritage

“They’re from Aranda Textile in South Africa and they are very special. These blankets hold immense significance in Basotho culture and go as far back as King Moshoeshoe I (Lesotho’s first king). The blankets come in different patterns that represent the Basotho identity using symbols that all mean something—the girls happened to all get the same pattern with the Spiral Aloe, which represents Lesotho’s Maluti Mountains. There’s a three-word motto in their country that is a part of the history of the blanket (‘Khotso, Pula, Nala’ meaning ‘Peace, Rain, Well-Being’). You can even find these blankets in the movie Black Panther.”

“We shop everywhere for home decor—from big box stores to Etsy to eBay and craft sales. We like the search. Sometimes we have something specific in mind, and other times we search by theme or era. In our neighbourhood, there aren’t any decor places, but I do regularly check our local Sally Ann store (salvationarmy .com). I’ve found incredible crystal glassware and midcentury ceramics.”

uncle made that swing. I had asked if he could make the same swing as the one I had growing up that I loved.”

DESIGNERS of the YEAR 2023

PRESENTING SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS

BEVERAGE SPONSORS

NEIGH BOUR HOODS

BY DESIGN

FAITHFULLY

GASTOWN GASTOWN

The streetlamps and cobblestones may give Gastown a yesteryear vibe (despite the fact that, ahem, these old-world aesthetic additions are actually from the ’70s), but the design shopping here is fresh, modern and downright playful, with plenty of international inspiration to be found.

OLD FAITHFUL SHOP

320 W Cordova St.

Warm and inviting, Old Faithful hosts an assortment of minimalist lighting and Scandinavian accessories from Denmark-based Skagerak, Ferm Living and more. Look for coffee table books, thoughtfully designed home goods and an extensive Japanese craft collection— including Hard Strong glassware. oldfaithfulshop.com

4.

NEMESIS COFFEE

302 W Hastings St.

The espresso is strong; the croissant skills are even stronger. Grab a caffeine fix (and maybe a little sugar fix, too—snag a raspberry pavlova cruffin if you can) in Nemesis’s bright, Scandi-minimalist space to get your head in the design-hunting game before you hit Gastown’s cobblestone streets.

nemesis.coffee

JUICE BAR

54 Alexander St.

Cult-fave coffee shop

SÖMN HOME

28 Water St.

FOR THE LINEN LOVERS

Stocked with bedding, bath and sleepwear, Sömn is a haven for linen lovers. The m.o. here is luxe fabrics—ubersoft washed linens are a specialty—paired with a stripped-down modern design sense that lets the fibres sing. somnhome.com

A KNICK-KNACK PARADISE

OUT AND ABOUT

321 W Cordova St.

FABLE HOME

205–332 Water St.

What started as an onlineonly dishware company now a full-fledged home decor destination. Find beautiful, Portuguese-made ceramic plates, bowls and in matte pastels or speckled white alongside ultra-durable glassware and feels-just-right premium cutlery. fable.com

The Birds and the Beets transforms at night into Juice Bar, an equally cool wine bar—so end your shopping day on the patio here with a glass of something small-batch

The shop may specialize in Japanese fashion, but you’ll pieces here, too. Case in point: satisfyingly stackable mugs cheery hues, arresting artworks, sumptuous herringbone twill face towels and quirky dog-shaped vases. outnaboutboutique.com

NEIGHBOURHOODS BY DESIGN

SOUTH MAIN

INFORM INTERIORS

50 Water St.

It’s impossible to miss Inform: the familyowned design shop takes up practically the whole block. A walk through the sweeping, multi-level showroom is like a visit to a design museum—discover global brands like Herman Miller and Vitra alongside local heroes A-N-D lighting and Christian Woo. (A thoughtful selection of books and accessories make it a top-notch gift-sourcing spot, too.) informinteriors.com

NEIGHBOUR OBJECTS

51 Powell St.

Sister store to Neighbour and Neighbour/Woman, Neighbour Objects carries the same quiet luxury into the home goods sphere. There are a few pieces of furniture here, but beyond the big bits, you’ll find everything you need to make a house a home, from coffee-geekapproved Moccamaster brewers to sculptural Nathalee Paolinelli candleholders to confetti-patterned Fredericks and Mae chopping boards. shopneighbour.com

RESOURCE FURNITURE

124 W Hastings St.

Step into the Resource showroom prepared for a magic show. The niche furniture design store specializes in modern, multifunctional and transforming furniture—bookshelves turn into queen-sized beds and compact desks expand into 12-seater dining tables. Condo dwellers, take note. resourcefurniture.com

Welcome to SoMa—home of oat milk lattes, vintage credenzas and craft beers aplenty. Step into our very own West Coast Brooklyn, where Michelin-starred restaurants meet cool local bars, and where hipsters, artists and people who have or are seriously thinking about getting a tattoo are known to congregate. The home design shops? A hub for mid-century modern and eco-conscious minimalism. And the best part: you’re always within reach of a great coffee shop, snack or post-shop patio beer.

VANCOUVER SPECIAL

3612 Main St.

Borrowing its name from Vancouver’s iconic ’60s and ’70s-era boxy homes, this indie design store is a modernist’s delight. Think of it as the cool cousin of Ikea that went to art school in Copenhagen. Vancouver Special is a playground of Scandi-cool, from coral Acapulco chairs to cream vintage desk lamps. Design power players like Alessi, Vitra and Muuto rub elbows with hip furniture brands like Normann Copenhagen. It’s stylishly minimal and, of course, special. shop. vanspecial.com

NINETEEN TEN

4366 Main St.

This popular indie store will have you questioning the difference between a “want” and a “need.” With curated, one-of-a-kind homewares, skincare and gifts, it’s a onestop shop for that perfect locally made teak coaster set, vacuum-sealed travel tumbler or delightful greeting card. nineteenten.ca

PARLIAMENT INTERIORS

2703 Main St.

Here, mid-century modern meets trendy seasonal with fresh decor pieces and accessories that cater to smaller spaces. Give yourself plenty of time in the extensive showroom as you debate with yourself over how much your current lifestyle necessitates a gold-mirrored bar cart. And don’t sleep on the Kermodi Living Art collection: find funky plants in minimalist pots here. parliamentinteriors.com

FUEL

4391

LIBERTY BAKERY AND CAFÉ

3699 Main St.

Start your SoMa day at Liberty Bakery, Main Street’s Wes Andersonesque café. Run by an artist, musician and photographer trio, it’s as cool as it gets. Prepare to be seduced by the aroma of fresh cardamom buns and the cuteness of Totoro-shaped gingerbread cookies. Pair one with a smooth latte and you’re all set to hit the streets, snack in hand for that mid-shopping energy boost. liberty-bakery.com

EL CAMINO’S

3250 Main St.

Cure your shopping fatigue with some happy hour pescado tacos, plus a refreshing paloma (Altos Reposado, pressed lime, grapefruit soda and a pinch of salt) to wash them down. And for a true Mount Pleasant experience, enjoy your cocktail on the quaint roadside patio, making cars and passersby green with envy. elcaminos.ca

Forgoing the hip hood’s usual pared-down vibe, Olive and Wild is like that one jet-setting friend who always brings back an earth-toned sculptural clay pot or 100-percent alpaca throw. Featuring elegant, global-chic accents from international and local designers, this boutique home decor shop is where you’ll find that je ne sais quoi oliveandwild.com

Armoury District Armoury District

Here’s fuel for a humble brag: just last year, Architectural Digest named the Armoury District one of the top 12 design districts in the world (hey NYC, jealous much?). Named after the Seaforth Armoury at 1st and Burrard, it’s home to Arthur Erickson’s masterful Waterfall Building and several top furniture and decor stores, as well as many local architect and design offices—and it’s just steps from Granville Island for a post-shop cocktail or two.

LIVINGSPACE

1706 W 1st Ave.

The building that houses Livingspace’s 30,000-squarefoot showroom is a destination in and of itself, namely to experience the architectural marvel that is the concrete-and-glass staircase that clings to its exterior. Designed by Bocci’s Omer Arbel, it’s flooded with light even on the grayest days—and serves as a proper entry to experience the showroom’s luxe European design brands (like Molteni&C, Paola Lenti, Poltrona Frau and Minotti). livingspace.com

EAST INDIA CARPETS

1606 W 2nd Ave.

The Armoury owes its curated, designforward nature to East India Carpets’ Ravi Sidhoo, who personally recruited many of the tenants to the ’hood. EIC itself has been going strong as a family business since 1948: its current collections run from classic Persian designs to the strikingly modern (like Matteo Cibic’s stunning Wunderkammer collection, which celebrates the Pink City of Jaipur). eastindiacarpets.com

ALIMENTARIA MEXICANA

1596 Johnson St.

There’s likely no more coveted spot on Granville Island than the patio

Alimentaria Mexicana on a sunny summer day, and for good reason. it’s an excellent spot people watching. But there’s a better way wrap up a successful Armoury shopping day— one of AM’s perfectly balanced margaritas hand, a side of happy guacamole (sprinkled with the inspired update of feta and pepitas)—well, facts are facts: there isn’t. alimentariamexicana.com

PRADO CAFE

1809 Fir St.

Expect a little local celebspotting in the Armoury outpost of Vancouver’s excellent mini-chain— many architects and interior designers have their offices nearby, and Prado buzzes with designoriented caffeine-seekers all day. (Fun fact: design legend Alda Pereira crafted the original space when it was under its previous ownership—and the room looks as fresh today as when she designed it nearly a decade ago.) pradocafe.com

FULLHOUSE MODERN

1545 W 4th Ave.

Coveting the perfect midcentury sideboard? Fullhouse brings together a thoughtful blend of vintage MCM furniture with new contemporary pieces from designforward brands like Menu, Loll Designs and Toronto-based Gus

PROVIDE & PROVIDE DESIGN GALLERY

1805 Fir St. & 1636 W 2nd Ave.

The perfect accessory awaits in this light-filled shop. Provide’s curated collection of unique, high-end textiles, ceramics, lighting and furniture pieces are gathered from leading brands and artisans around the world— including Teixidors, Seth Christou, Guaxs and dozens more, alongside celebrated local makers like Brent Comber and Quake Studio. Around the corner from the original store, Provide Design Gallery offers full-scale furniture, lighting, textiles, rugs and art collections in a space inspired by artful venues in Paris and Milan.

providehome.com

OBAKKI

1638 W 3rd Ave.

Treana Peake’s welcoming salon almost defies description: is it a store, a museum or a charity? It’s all three, as the founder and her team seek to raise the lives of makers from around the world, each exquisite and authentic design done in partnership with the artisan—truly making it one of the most unique spots in the country. obakki.com

1616

You may not realize how much you can covet a backsplash until you browse Ann Sacks’s tile collection. The Portland-based company chose this spot for their first entree into Canada a few years ago, and lucky us: wandering the collections here feels akin to immersing yourself in a grown-up candy shop. annsacks.com

IF MAD MEN IS YOUR VIBE

NEIGHBOURHOODS

BY DESIGN

SOUTH GRANVILLE SOUTH GRANVILLE

One-stop shop might be a cliché, but the delightfully walkable SoGra design district is about as holistic as it gets: Scandi-cool decor meets stylish kitchen accessories meets trendy modern furniture meets eclectic, covet-worthy textiles in this home-focused ’hood.

2717 Granville St.

Nail the “where-did-you-get-that” vibe the singular Details by Mr. K. Here, you’ll pedal-loomed pillows, hand-blown glass treasures and other colourful, unique home goods to give your living space that extracurated wow factor. detailsbymrk.com

EQ3

2536 Granville St.

If we could copy-andpaste EQ3’s gorgeous South Granville showroom into our own homes, we would. The minimalist brand’s in-house line is designed at its Winnipeg HQ (oh, Canada!) and international collections include picks from Marimekko and HerMiller. eq3.com

This big Canadian brand has moved far beyond books: in addition around the world (that Heather sure can pick ’em), find kitchen and functional catch-all trays here. chapters. indigo.ca

BEAUTS

STRUCTUBE

2401 Granville St.

Watch your back, Ikea. Quebec-based Structube has made a solid name for itself in the accessibly priced furniture game (in fact, the brand has a specific catalogue for more affordable wares).

Cheerful hues like sunny yellow, rose and teal prove that a small budget doesn’t have to mean boring. structube.com

KING LIVING

3097 Granville St.

Modular options make furniture from King Living the perfect condo hack— take, for example, the Jasper sofa, a down-under favourite (the brand is based in Australia) that offers incorporated storage, hidden shelving and, of course, an ultra-cozy place to hunker down on a rainy day. kingliving.ca

POTTERY BARN

2600 Granville St.

This store feels like stepping into your cool, well-to-do aunt’s house: the traditional, rustic-leaning wares in Pottery Barn will always be classics. An extensive outdoor furniture collection makes this pervasive brand perfect for patio-season shopping. potterybarn.ca

WEST ELM

2947 Granville St.

West Elm is home to both beautiful modern furniture and kickass housewarming gifts (we’re sessed with the funky vases and plant pots available here), and many of the products are designed in-house at their Brooklyn studio. westelm.ca

9.

SMALL VICTORY

3070 Granville St.

Grabbing a coffee at the super-Instagrammable Small Victory to kick off a design-focused day is a no-brainer. But be warned: the smell of fresh-baked bread and the rows upon rows of pretty pastries behind glass make it impossible to leave without picking up a brioche cinnamon bun (or two). smallvictory.ca

10.

SUIKA

1626 W Broadway

It’s technically a block away from the main South Granville strip, but the Asian-inspired cocktails are totally worth those few extra steps. Say cheers to your shopping haul with a yuzu melon mojito or an aloe G&T. suikasnackbar.com

2707 Granville St.

The first Ming Wo opened in Chinatown in 1917—and while the original location has now closed, outposts like the one in SoGra keep this excellent kitchenware store alive and well. Don’t mistake a long history for being dated: adorable Swedish dishcloths, the latest silicone baking tech and more modern kitchen essentials live here. mingwo.com

Sweet Summer Wedding Venues

Romance, check. Stunning sunsets, check. Lush greenery, check. These nine spots in and around Vancouver are the perfect backdrop for your dream summer wedding.

by Tanushi Bhatnagar

LOVE THROUGH THE AGES Hycroft Manor’s traditional vibes make it a timeless wedding destination.

Real Weddings 2023

VENUES

Science World’s Green Roof Terrace and Patio

LOCATION: Vancouver

CAPACITY: 180 ceremony; 160 reception

MINIMUM SPEND: From $7,300

Raise a glass to your romantic chemistry at Science World! While the venue offers multiple event spaces, we love the Green Roof Terrace for a summer wedding. Enjoy panoramic views of False Creek (and the lights on the “golf ball” dome once the sun starts to set) as you mingle in the shady comfort of a tented area that can accommodate almost the entire maximum capacity of the venue. scienceworld.ca

The Teahouse

LOCATION: Vancouver

CAPACITY: 70 to 100 in the largest room; up to 220 with a full-venue buyout

MINIMUM SPEND: From $1,500

Located on Ferguson Point in picturesque Stanley Park, the Teahouse is a beautiful historic venue with incredible water and mountain vistas at its doorstep (great for photo ops). This elegant restaurant has three dining rooms to choose from. The Conservatory is the largest space and features a glass roof and floor-to(glass)-ceiling ocean-view windows for a bright indoor ceremony. The Drawing Room and Tea Room are cozier spaces, which make them ideal for smaller gatherings. vancouverdine.com/teahouse

Morgan Creek Golf Course

LOCATION: Surrey

CAPACITY: 40 at the Creekside space; 150 in the Fraser Ballroom

MINIMUM SPEND: Varies seasonally

This award-winning golf course in Surrey features manicured lawns, elaborate florals and stunning views of Mount Baker. A beautiful wooden bridge at the main entrance with lush gardens in the background makes for perfect pictures. And don’t forget to take advantage of the complimentary bridal suite that you can use all day long. morgancreekweddings.com

REGAL DETAILS

Hycroft Manor’s heritage building features stately columns, intricate mouldings and gold chandeliers.

HIGHER LOVE

Hold your nuptials at Science World’s Green Roof Terrace and Patio, which overlooks False Creek.

The York Room

LOCATION: Vancouver

CAPACITY: 70 standing guests

MINIMUM SPEND: From $3,500

If your dream reception includes elevated cuisine, a sommelier-approved wine list and an intimate space with crystal chandeliers and architectural details, the York Room is the venue for you. Located in the historic Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and just above the Michelin-recommended Hawksworth Restaurant, this room is ideal if you’re looking for an indoor urban wedding. hawksworthrestaurant.com

Mintara

LOCATION: Burnaby

CAPACITY: 80 to 110

MINIMUM SPEND: Various packages available

Located atop Burnaby Mountain, Mintara boasts magnificent sweeping views and a beautiful rose garden surrounding the restaurant. The bonus? The staff will do everything in their power to make planning your big day a stress-free experience.

“We take care of a lot of your details at Mintara, leaving you time to really focus on what’s important: you and your guests,” says Carissa Quan, Mintara’s wedding and event expert. foodburnaby.ca

Hycroft Manor

LOCATION: Vancouver

CAPACITY: 100 seated guests

MINIMUM SPEND: From $4,500 (for rental) during the high spring/summer season

If you’ve always wanted a royal-style wedding, this century-old Edwardianstyle mansion can make those dreams come true. Picture backlit stained glass, hand-carved marble fireplaces and extravagant gold chandeliers indoors, or take it outside with a garden wedding under the warm summer sun. uwcvancouver.ca

Sky Hangar

LOCATION: Pitt Meadows

CAPACITY: Up to 300, including vendors

MINIMUM SPEND: From $4,000

If you want to add drama to your walk down the aisle, then the sky is literally the limit at Sky Hangar. Along with flight tours and spectacular helicopter entrances, this 6,000-square-foot canvas can accommodate any event style, especially if you want to have a big fat wedding. This venue is a unique way to have a destination-style wedding despite being only a 45-minute drive from Vancouver. skyhangar.ca

La Fabrique St-George Winery

LOCATION: Vancouver

CAPACITY: 67

MINIMUM SPEND: From $5,000

Want a vineyard wedding but don’t want to travel to the Okanagan?

Conveniently located in Mount Pleasant, this rustic yet urban setting is the perfect place for an intimate winery wedding where you can toast your special day with wines that are made on-site. fabriquestgeorge.com

Nita Lake Lodge Resort and Spa

LOCATION: Whistler

CAPACITY: 130

MINIMUM SPEND: $100 per guest

While Whistler is often considered a winter destination, it’s also a beautiful spot to host a summer wedding. This boutique luxury resort and spa in Creekside offers a lakefront location surrounded by breathtaking forest and mountain views. nitalakelodge.com

INDOOR ELEGANCE

The York Room is located inside the beautiful Rosewood Hotel Georgia in the heart of downtown.

MOUNTAIN HIGH Mintara restaurant on Burnaby Mountain boasts spectacular views.

WILDERNESS WEDDING

If you’re looking to tie the knot in the great outdoors, Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler is an ideal option.

Real Weddings 2023

TRENDS

The Wow Factor

After all the major decisions are nailed down (date, venue, person you’re marrying, etc.), it’s time to sort out the details: those extra-special touches that set your big day apart. We asked Stephanie Reitsma, owner and wedding planner at Vancouverbased Sweetheart Events, and her team what modern couples are doing to make their weddings unique. Here’s your guide to the tiny tweaks and daring details that will make your celebration extraordinary.

by Alyssa Hirose

Rethink Your Drinks

“You could name your signature cocktail after your pet—or you could go beyond that,” says Reitsma. Libations are a great opportunity to add unique touches: “This is your permission slip to get creative.“ She and her team suggest wine pairings with dinner (choose bottles that are meaningful and share why) or changing the game with a late-night signature cocktail—espresso martinis are always a hit.

Hire a Content Creator

This isn’t for influencers only: taking behind-the-scenes photos and videos to go along with your super-polished photography is a great way to preserve those wedding memories. “It helps capture the feelings and emotions,” explains Reitsma.

Vancouver-based company Your Wedding Bestie has social media content creation packages for weddings that start at $595—check them out at yourweddingbestie.ca

Slip into Something More Comfortable

Changing from a wedding dress into a reception dress is becoming more common, but there’s another quick-change trend on the scene.

“We’re seeing cowboy boots, graphic tees and full-on bride and groom sweatsuits,” says Reitsma.

Don’t Bust a Move

Dancing isn’t an essential reception activity—if hitting the dance floor doesn’t feel fun to you and your partner, consider an alternate crowd-pleaser.

“One of my weddings is doing Rock Band [the video game] and karaoke because they’re not huge dancers,” notes Reitsma.

Pay Your Florals

Forward

“Lately, a lot more people are choosing to be more sustainable and are donating their flowers post-wedding,” says Reitsma. Vancouver non-profit Repeat Floral will pick up your used bouquets and donate them to a local seniors home—find them on Instagram at @repeat.floral

Gain Perspective

Consider switching up the traditional positioning of the wedding party: if your half of the party stands on your partner’s side, and vice versa, you’ll be able to see their faces better. You can rethink the officiant’s placement, too: “If the officiant is standing in the aisle, the couple is encouraged to look at everybody during the ceremony,” says Reitsma.

Make Musical Moments

Reitsma’s team suggests asking guests for their own wedding songs and playing them during the cocktail hour or dinner. Another idea to help personalize your big day? If the event involves a long walk from one space to another, curate a walking playlist and provide a QR code to unlock the tunes.

KARAOKE: OLIVE AND BEAN PHOTOGRAPHY; ISTOCK

Unforgettable Whistler Wedding at Nita Lake Lodge

LOVE NOTES

“It’s hard to put into words how we feel about our time at Nita Lake lodge. David and I knew we were taking a big risk getting married so far from home and getting our families to fly halfway around the world to a destination and venue that we had only seen photos of on the internet. We put all our trust into the staff at Nita Lake Lodge. But Whistler, Nita Lake Lodge and the lovely staff far exceeded our expectations, leaving us with memories we will treasure forever and for which we are very thankful.” – Mr. + Mrs. H

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and nestled on a glacier-fed lake in Whistler, BC, Nita Lake Lodge is nationally recognized as a premiere destination wedding venue. Nita Lake Lodge has a variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces ideal in every season, each offering a unique picturesque backdrop for your celebration. The architectural expression recalls that of early mountain lodges framed in exposed wood and with a beautiful Portecochère. The striking environment, on-site bridal spa services and customized catering make Nita Lake Lodge a dreamy destination wedding spot in Whistler, BC.

Nita Lake Lodge boasts the professional talents of culinary and

events teams ensuring every aspect is creatively designed and carefully planned. Options may be selected from the wedding catering menu or let Nita’s Executive Chef create a custom plated dinner menu personalized just for you and your special guests. The dedicated pastry team also has all your cake and dessert needs covered.

As a four-diamond full-service boutique hotel, Nita Lake Lodge is proud to offer spaces to host both your wedding ceremony and reception or a wedding reception only. Exchange vows on the Lakeside Patio or at the stunning Portecochère. One of Canada’s most ‘Instagram-worthy’ properties, Nita Lake Lodge ensures a beautiful wedding album of wonderful memories for years to come.

“We are so thankful and happy that we chose Nita Lake for our wedding location. It allowed us to be with our favourite people all in one spot. The location is so beautiful. Our wedding day was just so perfect (even the weather!)—it was everything that I had envisioned it to be. The vendors also helped bring our vision to life and I honestly was just sooo blown away!” – K + M

“We appreciated everyone so much during the wedding! You have such a wonderful team at Nita Lake, and everything was beautiful! We will certainly be back for anniversaries or other celebrations in the future!”

– Mr. + Mrs. Z

@nitalakelodge

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and nestled on a glacier-fed lake in Whistler, BC, Nita Lake Lodge is nationally recognized as a premiere destination wedding venue.

The City of Burnaby features some extraordinary venues with catering packages that are perfect for meetings, corporate events, workshops, conferences, staff parties and weddings.

With many locations to choose from and a range of packages to fit your budget, let us make your event one to remember.

BOOK A TOUR OF OUR VENUES TODAY!

RIVERWAY CLUBHOUSE

FOODBURNABY BURNABYMOUNTAINCLUBHOUSE RIVERWAYCLUBHOUSE MINTARA_BURNABY FOODBURNABY.CA

Featuring our stunning new Mintara venue atop Burnaby Mountain.

ATOP BURNABY MOUNTAIN

MINTARA ATOP BURNABY MOUNTAIN

BURNABY MOUNTAIN CLUBHOUSE

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY

Social’s stylish patio checks two great boxes: it’s one of the few rooftop patios in the city and it has a late-night happy hour food menu—so you can stay fuelled for an all-night party under the stars (or at least until they kick you out).

Patio season is short and sweet: it’s go time. Read on for the best spots for sipping, snacking and sunning—think dog-friendly destinations, ‘grammable go-tos, hidden hangouts and more.

BY THE EDITORS

REFLECTIONS

801 W Georgia St., 4th floor

Listen, we obviously love this city (we’re called Vancouver magazine, after all) but, sometimes, isn’t it nice to pretend to be... away? When that feeling hits, that’s when we waltz through the lustrous lobby of the Hotel Georgia and ride up the elevator to the fourth-floor oasis: an open-air patio hugged by the hotel’s brick facades. Is this New York? London? Ponder the possibilities as you lounge under the pergola—draped with greenery and lights, of course, they’re not animals—and consider a quick nap on the cushy, low-slung sofas.

This isn’t the place to source a cheap-and-cheerful pitcher of beer, but if you’re looking for an indulgent, sophisticated afternoon getaway (no flight required), nothing beats this secret garden in the sky. Sip the maracuya colada ($24), an

upscale take on the classic allinclusive slushie: Black Barrel rum, passion fruit puree, coconut milk and coconut syrup just add to the transportive vibes. An equally enticing zeroproof cocktail menu makes the rooftop-ish experience something special for nonimbibers, too—the virgin watermelon mojito ($16) is a true taste of summer. Modern share-plate classics like blistered shishitos ($16) and salmon aburi ($27) will please your fellow faux travellers. Another round? rosewoodhotels.com

POPINA CANTEEN

1691 Johnston St.

The supergroup that opened Popina didn’t necessarily set off to create the unsung patio hero of Granville Island—but by setting up some outdoor seating between their colourful shippingcontainer takeout counter and the bustling ferry dock, they did just that. Chefs Angus An (Maenam, Longtail Kitchen), Robert Belcham (Campagnolo), Hamid Salimian (consultant for Earls, co-founder of Nextjen) and Joël Watanabe (Kissa Tanto) had a humble dream of showing Vancouver just how good lobster rolls and fried chicken can be. Little did they know that the simple dining space would offer up a beautiful side of Burrard Street Bridge views, fresh ocean breezes and a front-row seat to all the seagull drama—if you want more from a patio than that, we can’t help you.

All summer, Popina accommodates a steady stream of foodies coming and going from its benches, toasting a day

of successful market shopping with a glass of sparkling from JoieFarm Winery ($13), pregaming for live theatre with a Provincial Spirits cocktail ($12) or just taking in the sunset with an ice-creamstuffed cream puff ($9) in hand. popinacanteen.com

“I’ll go with the Granville Island hotel’s Dockside restaurant—for the ambiance, the fireplaces and that sophisticated, stylish and contemporary feel. Give me the skillet-baked cheese rolls and the pork belly and I’m good to go. There’s perfect waterfront views plus epic views of downtown, and they also have a happy hour and heat lamps and blankets when it gets chilly.” 1253 Johnston St., docksidevancouver.com

Mijune Pak, Food Network Canada entertainer, judge on Top Chef Canada and Iron Chef Canada and host of Michelin Vancouver

ROBBA DA MATTI

1906 Haro St.

Despite its home in the heart of this city’s densest neighbourhood, the lovely, lightsand-trellis-covered patio that is Robba Da Matti manages to feel like a hidden gem—and that’s in large part due to its residential location. This is no Denmanand-Davie see-and-be-seen beachgoer’s delight, but instead a quiet spot tucked right into the ’hood, dropped slightly from street level like a ’60s living room, and oozing with Italian hospitality. It starts from the moment the server welcomes you in—order the warm olives ($12), which clearly should be paired with a

PERSONAL PATIO PICK

glass of the Santa Margherita prosecco ($12) or a when-inalmost-Italy Aperol spritz ($13.50), because summer.

The restaurant brings in fresh burrata from Italy weekly and pairs it with prosciutto ($25), so go all-in with sharesies, and do gild the lily with the Ligurian dish of pasta el pesto and burrata: homemade pesto topped with pecorino romano, burrata cream and toasted pistachios ($26). Or, if your Italian interest falls to Rome, then spaghetti carbonara—fresh pasta beautifully coated in free-range egg yolk with salty guanciale and cracked pepper—is your bowl of comfort for the night ($28). And with the lights twinkling overhead, a warm summer breeze and the chatter of those strolling the pedestrians-only strip of Gilford Street nearby, you’ll be reaching for another bottle of prosecco and planning your next European vacation. robbadamatti.com

Need a new patio to add to your al fresco lineup? Here are Vancouver’s latest and greatest.

“I love Hanai’s patio. It feels like a community—whenever I go there, I bump into the nicest people. I usually have a glass of sake or one of their playful slushy cocktails. And, of course, Burdock’s garden patio (biased, I know), where you get to see Chef Andrea come out and pick herbs for dishes. Also there’s nothing better than having a beautiful piece of burrata or profiteroles while enjoying a bottle of bubbles.”

1590 Commercial Dr., hanaivancouver.com

Shiva Reddy, sommelier at Burdock and Co and food and wine columnist for CBC Vancouver’s On the Coast

WILDLIGHT KITCHEN AND BAR

5380 University Blvd.

Opened February 2023

West-siders (and eastsiders who aren’t afraid of a little drive), listen up: this new restaurant on UBC campus has a totally dreamy 40-seat patio that’s bathed in sunshine. The ultra-popular midcentury modern horseshoe booths are the ideal spot for snacking on pescetarian charcuterie. wildlightrestaurant.ca

LOCAL PUBLIC EATERY

8558 River District Crossing

Opened May 2023

Local is establishing a patio empire in this city. There’s the famed Kits Beach location, the touristfriendly Gastown eatery and now this buzzy, brand-new River District spot. The wraparound, yellow-umbrella’d patio seats 90: sip on a spicy guava margarita and judge this emerging dining destination for yourself. localpubliceatery.com

heartandstroke.ca/FAST

© Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2023 | ™ The heart and / Icon on its own and the heart and / Icon followed by another icon or words are trademarks of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

SOCIAL

1812 Commercial Dr.

Social is a true tropical paradise, complete with chic flamingo and jungle-themed wallpaper, ethereal rattan bucket lightshades and lush cascading vines to inspire eager Instagrammers. The macrame curtains and Pinterest-y wicker swivel chair further serve as influencer bait. Skylight windows and glass sliding doors flood the space with sunshine.

This sky-high oasis delights with local wines, craft beers and inventive cocktails (boozy slushies and vodka-spiked juice boxes, natch). The menu follows suit, featuring islandinspired bites like ahi tuna sushi tacos ($17) and spicy chicken dumplings with kimchi ($16),

available at a discount during late-night happy hour (9 p.m. onward).

Social’s patio is a stomping ground for live DJs, 20-somethings with shared party pitchers—try the boozy peach pink vodka lemonade ($31)— content creators doing their thing and brunchers living it up (croque madame [$18], anyone?). The vibe leans more toward party than lounge—Social is an apt name. socialyvr.com

MAXINE’S CAFÉ & BAR

1325 Burrard St.

Maxine’s has truly mastered the art of casual elegance—you know, like that one friend who somehow looks chic in a bicycle helmet. This charming West End patio seats 25, and the unfussy but adorable cushioned benches and rattan chairs are the perfect spot to enjoy some crispy happy hour fried chicken ($14) with tabasco honey butter, or to indulge in the brunch favourite Dutch baby ($23—and don’t let the name fool you, this monstrous cast-iron pancake packed with ham and cheesy mornay sauce is an adult-sized spectacular that’s decadent enough to share).

Drinks-wise, the basil gin sour ($15, $12 at happy hour) is an artful twist on the classic gin-and-lemon combo—basil syrup and celery bitters give the drink an extra wow-factor. The blackberry margarita ($15, $2 off at happy hour) is another winner: it’s more on the tart side than a

YES, but not during weekend brunch

traditional marg, perfect for summer sipping. That said, this little piece of Parisianesque paradise isn’t just a fair-weather destination—wellplaced heaters make it a comfy go-to well into the fall.

Plus, the people-watching is supreme: chaotic family bike rides, hardcore morning joggers and impeccably dressed people walking impeccably dressed dogs are all easy gets on the Maxine’s bingo card. maxinescafebar.com

“One of my favourite restaurant patios in the city is Livia on Commercial Drive. This family-run bakery, pasta and wine bar (named after the owner’s nona) boasts the charm and warmth you’d expect from an Italian café. It has such a welcoming atmosphere, and the front patio is the perfect spot (rain or shine—it’s covered) for people-watching. I highly recommend the breakfast sandwich for brunch, and you really can’t go wrong with any of Livia’s fresh pastas for lunch or dinner. On your way out, be sure to grab a loaf of sourdough (my favourite) and some of their mouthwatering pastries.”

1399 Commercial Dr., liviasweets.com

Jaycelyn

Brown, Said the Whale keyboardist and avid home baker

PERSONAL PATIO PICK

MINAMI

1118 Mainland St.

Did you know that Minami has a Japanese-inspired Zen garden patio tucked behind it? (Shhh, don’t tell anyone.) With just nine tables and 24 seats, this romantic little oasis in the heart of Yaletown is the perfect spot to impress on a first date. Snuggle up under the tree canopy and twinkling string lights while nibbling on the restaurant’s signature flame-seared pressed sushi. It’s hard to choose a favourite between the salmon (B.C. wild sockeye and jalapeño), ebi (prawn and lime zest) and saba (house-cured mackerel and miso sauce), so go for the sampler ($21), which includes two of each. Another must-have is the bluefin tuna Redwave roll

($12 for 4, $24 for 8), which made its triumphant return to the menu this year after a brief hiatus, during which the chef upgraded the ingredients. (We didn’t think it could get better, but it just did.) Looking to secure that second date? Treat them to the Iwate A5 wagyu nigiri ($12), a piece of exquisitely marbled beef perched atop sushi rice. Wash it all down with a sake flight (starting at $25), which includes a selection of three glasses hand-picked by restaurant manager Barnaby Malong. And don’t forget to save room for dessert: pastry chef Nikki Tam is always creating something sweet with her everchanging selection of “JapanEuro-influenced” confections, but the green tea opera cake ($16) is a staple. It’s the happy ending we all wish for in a fairy-tale setting. minamirestaurant.com

THE GALLEY PATIO AND GRILL AT JERICHO SAILING CENTRE

1300 Discovery St.

We patio lovers contain multitudes. Sometimes you seek out a patio for the happy hour special, or the great bar snacks, or the people-watching. And sometimes you want the beachiest, best waterfront spot in the city and you don’t even care what’s on the table in front of you—and that’s when you hit up the Galley.

That’s not to say the Moody Ales Blood Orange Hefeweizen ($8.50) on tap here isn’t going to be crazy refreshing after a summer-day stroll down Point Grey Road and the Jericho Beach pathway—or a pour of Red Rooster Pinot Gris ($11.75), if that’s your bag. It’s just that the selling point here is far more than the fare that comes out of the humble grill kitchen. No matter how crispy the fries or fish batter (one-piece fish and chips, $19.75), it’s the views that are going to make the hike up the Sailing Centre staircase worth the trek. From your perch above the sand at any of the wobbly, faux-marble patio tables, you can take in the sparkling ocean and downtown skyline in one sweep. There’s the snowcapped mountains, the colourful container ships dotting the horizon, the sailboats drifting back and forth in the bay. Get a second pint (and slap on a little more sunscreen): this is a postcardperfect view of the city we love, and you’re going to want to stay awhile. thegalley.ca

SUPERFLUX

505 Clark Dr.

Permanent patio opened May 2023

Thanks to a new bylaw allowing permanent patios at breweries, East Van’s Superflux now has a covered, year-round 67-seat patio—the no-frills picnic benches and ambient string lights beckon large groups of IPA aficionados. superfluxbeer.com

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THE VICTOR

39 Smithe St.

You’ve already dropped hundreds to see Beyoncé at BC Place, so why not enjoy a pre- or post-show dining experience that’s worthy of Queen Bey herself? Within walking distance of both downtown stadiums, The Victor’s expansive patio is surprisingly stealthy for one that’s located on a 30,000-square-foot green space. In order to find it, head up to the sixth-floor lobby of the Douglas Hotel in the Parq casino, then cozy up on the covered patio areas directly outside the lounge and dining room or bask in the sun at one of the umbrella-dotted tables that line the deck surrounding the water feature (furry friends are

permitted here). And then there’s the food. Recently awarded an honourable mention in the steakhouse category in our 2023 Restaurant Awards, The Victor is sure to please the steak snobs in your party. Choose from the numerous premium cuts (all cooked in a 1,200-degree broiler—we told you it was snobby) and dig into can’tresist sides like mac ’n’ cheese waffles ($15) and a classic onion ring stack ($13). Pair your steak with a selection from the extensive wines-by-theglass list (the Enomatic wine system keeps things fresh) or go with a signature cocktail (try the rum-spiked Tiki Kahiki) then sit back and relax while you enjoy a close-up of the glowing lights from BC Place and the views of False Creek and downtown. This is elevated (pun intended) pregaming at its best. parqvancouver.com

MOUNT PLEASANT VINTAGE & PROVISIONS

67 W 6th Ave.

Don’t be fooled by the unassuming little heritage home with its “This is not a cult” sign—this restaurant is trendy as hell. Take your patio pick: cozy street-facing front or elevated back alley. The former has AstroTurf flooring, lush greenery, colourful furniture and a giant graffiti-style mural. The latter has epic city and mountain views and a huge event tent that sets the stage for a summertime block party: choose from wooden picnic tables, vintage lawn chairs or painted cinderblocks. The Sailor Jerryesque mural and ’90s rap playlist bring a West Coast cool-meets-nostalgia vibe.

The happy hour menu (2:30 to 5:30 p.m.) reads like a kid’s birthday party spread, in the best way. There’s $3 fireroasted hotdogs (the condiments come in a cute vintage lunch pail) and crispy, perfectly seasoned tater tots ($5). Gourmet cookout favourites include wood-fired oysters ($19), burnt s’mores cheesecake with spicy blueberry compote ($11) and fall-off-the-bone eight-hour saucy beef brisket ($24, weekends only). Quench your thirst with local beers on tap or try a boozy slushy (think sangria or frozen Vietnamese coffee). Plus, there’s the Tiger Claw, MPV’s unique twist on a White Claw: it’s vodka soda in seasonal flavours like strawberry basil and pineapple star anise. This two-for-one patio party is barely a year old, but it’s already a cult fav (despite the sign). mtpleasant.bar

YES, on the front patio

SOME YES

Y ES (for 8 or more)

HOT

TIP Didn’t score Beyoncé tickets? The staff at The Victor confirm that you can hear concerts at BC Place from the patio—whether the stadium roof is open or closed.

Don’t mess with the classics: these go-to patios deliver spectacular views. Here’s where to bring out-oftowners to prove them wrong when they gripe about the rain.

Mahony’s Tavern | False Creek

A frozen bellini is only $8 during happy hour here, and those False Creek views are free. Watch out for seagulls—they love a good deal, too.

The Sandbar | Granville Island

Want a golden-hour snapshot of your truffle fries? This seafood-focused spot is perfect for sunset-chasers.

Tap and Barrel | Olympic Village, Convention Centre, Granville Island

A triple-threat of oceanfront views (and if crossing a big bridge doesn’t scare you, the North Shore location is just as stunning).

Provence Marinaside | Yaletown

T his seaside restaurant earned an honourable mention in the French category of our 2023 Restaurant Awards—don’t miss the escargots.

Cardero’s | Coal Harbour

Even the inside here has a beautiful waterfront view—but the patio is front-row ocean. Go all in with the $118 Dockside platter (oysters, clams, prawns, crab claws, and more).

The Boathouse | Kits Beach

The ocean scenery is a knockout, but the food isn’t fussy: find mini doughnuts alongside truffle Brussels sprouts.

Cactus Club | English Bay and Coal Harbour

This Vancouver empire took the gold in the Best Chain category at our 2023 Restaurant Awards, and those iconic Szechuan lettuce wraps are even better al fresco.

Design by Falken Reynolds/photo by Ema Peter

Culture

Good Drinks Come to Those Who Wait

This recipe is an investment in your future happiness (seriously, there’s a six-week aging process before you can enjoy your first taste). But like all good things—Vancouver summers included—it’s worth the wait. From the team at Suyo, which recently took home the title of Best Latin American in the 2023 Vanmag Restaurant Awards, this cocktail captures the sun-soaked Peruvian coast with every sip: it’s the summer fling you didn’t know you needed (despite the lengthy courtship).

THE SUYO CACTI

SERVES

1

30 ml Volcan Reposado

15 ml Sotol Ono

7 ml Grappa di Marolo

30 ml verjus blanc

2 dashes bay leaf tincture

10 ml chamomile-infused Strega liqueur (see recipe)

10 ml bee pollen syrup (see recipe)

50 g beeswax

Soda and grapefruit oils, to serve

1. Combine all cocktail ingredients except for the beeswax, soda and oils.

2. Gently melt beeswax in a disposable container. (It will ruin your pans so don’t use anything you’re fond of.)

3. Carefully pour the liquid wax into a clean glass bottle, and, while it’s still liquid, rotate the bottle, coating the inside with a layer of beeswax as it solidifies.

4. Allow to cool fully before filling the bottle with your batched cocktail. Age in beeswax for six weeks (at room temperature and out of direct sunlight). Be sure to date your bottle so you know when it’s ready.

5. Once six weeks have passed, pour 120 ml of the batched cocktail into a glass and add 60 ml soda. Spritz the top with grapefruit oils and enjoy.

CHAMOMILE-INFUSED STREGA

10 g chamomile flowers

750 ml Strega liqueur

METHOD

Steep chamomile flowers in Strega for 60 minutes. Fine strain, bottle and reserve in the fridge. (It can be kept indefinitely.)

BEE POLLEN SYRUP

40 g bee pollen

1 L water, boiling White sugar

METHOD

Steep bee pollen water for 20 minutes. vigorously, then strain paper coffee filter. remaining pollen add equal parts white Stir to dissolve. Once is completely dissolved, and reserve in the keep for up to two

CHELSEA