INLET
DISTRICT LIVING
COMMUNITY
MAGAZINE
INSIDE
Discover the people, places, and pets in & around Inlet District, Port Moody
INLET DISTRICT
L I V I N G
Inlet District Living recognizes and respectfully acknowledges the ancestral and shared traditional territory of the kʷik
(Kwikwetlem), qicəy (Katzie), qiqéyt (Qayqayt), q ʼʷa:nƛʼ ən (Kwantlen), Stó:lō (Sto:lo), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam) Peoples. We extend appreciation to live and work on this territory.
Cover Art
The mural at Rocky Point Ice Cream Ola Volo
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director Advertising Sales
Katherine Hall
Katherine Hall
Contributing Photographers / Artists Contributing Writers
Ola Volo GARDENWORKS
Marina Sen
Elle McCleave
Lydia Podobnik
Little Gypsy’s Fine Jewelry, Gifts & Gallery
Connect with us:
Stephanie Peterson
Kayleigh Hansen
Courtney Burnett
Katherine Hall
@inletdistrictlivingmagazine
Ola Volo
Leah Bosello
Stephanie Peterson
Lydia Podobnik
Courtney Burnett
Alex Johnson
Katherine Hall
inletdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail com
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, fall in Port Moody feels like the perfect season to cozy up with issue 2 of Inlet District Living magazine In this issue, we’re celebrating the community, creativity, flavours, and hidden gems that make the Inlet District such a special place to call home
Inside our second issue, you’ll meet talented local artists and makers, discover charming hidden gems, and restaurants that serve up comfort with every dish We’re also introducing you to our adorable feature pet, along with a non-profit group bringing rescue dogs and local breweries together for adoption meet-ups.
For garden lovers, we’ve included a guide to planting fall bulbs - whether you’ve got a backyard or a balcony, you can look forward to beautiful spring blooms by planning ahead. And don’t miss our new Marketplace shopping section, where you can explore small and local businesses right here in the community!
As always, our goal is to connect neighbours, shine a light on the people and businesses that make Port Moody thrive, and celebrate the unique character of life in the Inlet District
Sincerely,
Love for Inlet District
Port Moody has a way of slowing you down in the best way. I love its blend of forest, ocean, and community spirit. There’s something so grounding about walking by the water, grabbing ice cream, and seeing families gather at the park. It’s creative, cozy, and filled with heart. An inspiring place for any artist. As well, I have been coming here since I was 10 years old and always loved it!
- Ola , Artist & Muralist
We love being part of Port Moody’s Inlet District, a growing waterfront neighbourhood that brings together food, culture, and community. With its scenic shoreline, welcoming green spaces, and lively mix of local businesses, the Inlet District embodies the same spirit of connection and hospitality we value at Osteria Povera - making it the perfect place to call home.
- Stephanie , Osteria Povera
One of my favourite things about the Inlet District is the blend of old and new. Of course progress is necessary, but preserving the heritage remains a priority…I love that! There is also a commitment to supporting small independent business owners such as myself, which is a great way to hold onto the flavour of community and home!
- Lydia , Little Gypsy’s Fine Jewelry, Gifts and Gallery
The Inlet District is all about uplifting the community by celebrating the local businesses that make it such a special place to live At Barks, Brews & Beyond! we share that same passion for supporting local - it’s at the core of what we do
That’s why it’s so important to us to bring other locally owned businesses along to our events, like Shopdogged, Chew Love Dog Treats, and Chi’s Chilly Treats These businesses not only enhance our events, but they also reflect the heart and soul of our community
When we highlight what makes a community greatthe people, the passion, and the small businesses - we bring people together, foster connection, and build the kind of pride we all need a little more of these days and that’s exactly what the Inlet District does!
- Leah , Barks, Brews & Beyond!
We moved to Port Moody searching for that perfect balance of city, ocean and mountains that Vancouver provided, without the “hustle and bustle” of downtown. While we’ve already fallen in love with Port Moody, we cannot wait for the addition of Inlet District and all the vibrancy it has to offer this amazing city!
- Courtney , Proud Pawrent of Beau
Working in Port Moody, I’ve grown to love how connected this neighbourhood is to nature. The forests, shoreline, and changing seasons always inspire my gardening, while the thriving local businesses make the community feel alive. It’s a place where both people and gardens can put down roots and flourish together.
- Alex , GARDENWORKS
Specializing in hard gel extensions & relaxing pedicures
Using Akzentz, a high-quality, professional Canadian nail brand
Hygienic care with sterile, sealed tools
Expert technicians focusing on your nail health
Relaxed cozy environment
1-121 Brew St, Port Moody (Suter Brook Village)
Phone: 604-469-6388
Email: inletnails@gmail com
Instagram: @theinletnailstudio www.inletnailstudio.com
Under new management since March
Artist Spotlight: Ola Volo ARTIST BIO
Ola Volo is a Canadian artist known for her signature style that weaves together folklore, fantasy, and intricate detailing Born in Kazakhstan and raised in the Tri-Cities area of British Columbia, Ola draws from her Eastern European roots and West Coast upbringing to create storytelling-rich visuals that explore themes of identity, connection, and empowerment. Her work lives at the intersection of public art and illustration. Whether it's a massive mural on the side of a building or an intimate hand-drawn piece, each creation is infused with symbolism and character.
Ola has painted murals around the world and collaborated with brands such as Disney, Starbucks, and Lululemon. Her largest mural to date, in Montreal, is the biggest painted by a woman in Canada. Beyond commercial work, she continues to exhibit in galleries, participate in artist residencies, and create spaces for community engagement through art
is storytelling Bold, poetic, tes viewers to step into her their own Whether she’s street, her goal is always to s imagination, and celebrates mmunity
FEATURE ART PROJECT
The mural at Rocky Point Ice Cream was inspired by the magic of seasons, the joy of childhood, and the natural beauty of Port Moody I wanted to create something that felt like a whimsical escape, a place where imagination meets memory. The design features playful animals, bold patterns, and elements drawn from local nature, like the surrounding forest and shoreline, and of course ice cream. It’s meant to feel joyful and a little surreal, like a story unfolding across the wall.
As a longtime fan of Rocky Point Ice Cream, I saw this piece as a love letter to the community and the moments we treasure. Sharing a cone after a swim, watching the sun set behind the mountains, or simply enjoying a walk with family. I tried to bottle up that feeling and pour it into the wall.
One of the things I love most about murals is how they live out in the open Anyone can experience them, even if just in passing This piece is for kids to point at, for couples to take selfies in front of, and for locals to recognize a little bit of themselves in it It’s art that belongs to everyone
Get in touch:
Website: www olavolo com
Instagram: @olavolo
Email: ola@olavolo com
“As a longtime fan of Rocky Point Ice Cream, I saw this piece as a love letter to the community and the moments we treasure. Sharing a cone after a swim, watching the sun set behind the mountains, or simply enjoying a walk with family. I tried to bottle up that feeling and pour it into the wall.”
The mural at Rocky Point Ice Cream by Ola Volo
BY LEAH BOSELLO
BY MARINA SEN & ELLE MCCLEAVE
Barks, Brews & Beyond!
Barks, Brews & Beyond! (formerly Barks n’ Brews) was founded in 2022 by Leah Bosello, Julia Booth and Emily Boucher - three high school friends brought together by our love of dogs and a shared experience. Each of us adopted our pups from different rescue organizations and, although grateful, found the process stressful, confusing, and impersonal at times That experience sparked a vision: to create a welcoming environment where people could meet rescue dogs in a more relaxed, open setting, connect directly with the rescues, and feel truly confident in adding a new member to their family
From that idea, Barks, Brews & Beyond! was born - a nonprofit dedicated to promoting dog adoption, responsible pet ownership, and fostering meaningful connections between the community and reputable local rescues.
“Our mission includes combating dog overpopulation, supporting ethical rescue practices, and creating a more compassionate, informed community of dog lovers. All proceeds from our events go directly to the rescues involved which help fund medical care, food, transport, and more. ”
Currently I (Leah) am the one leading the events with a team of amazing volunteers! We host the events once a month at local breweries or outdoor venues where people can meet adoptable dogs, ask questions, and learn about the adoption or fostering process in a casual, supportive space. The mission is simple: help more dogs find loving homes, while raising money and awareness for the local rescue organizations that save them.
Each event features adoptable dogs from trusted, ethical rescues, who are onsite to answer questions, collect adoption applications (pre-approval encouraged!), and share the stories behind the dogs in their care. Many adoptions happen right at the event, with families having had the chance to spend time with the dogs in a lowpressure, social setting
WORDS
PHOTOS
Beyond adoption, Barks, Brews & Beyond! is about education and advocacy. We provide important information and resources to help the public:
Understand the importance of fostering and how to get started
Learn about the necessity of spaying and neutering pets
Recognize and avoid backyard breeders and online puppy mills (especially on platforms like Kijiji)
See the real impact of choosing adoption over shopping
Our mission includes combating dog overpopulation, supporting ethical rescue practices, and creating a more compassionate, informed community of dog lovers All proceeds from our events go directly to the rescues involved which help fund medical care, food, transport, and more
Whether you're looking to adopt, foster, volunteer, or just spend time with dogs while enjoying a local brew, Barks, Brews & Beyond! invites you to be part of something meaningful.
Follow us on Instagram @barks.brews.beyond or on Facebook at Barks, Brews & Beyond for upcoming event announcements, adoptable dogs, rescue features, and ways to get involved. Volunteer inquiries, or venues that would like to host us can reach us at barksnbrewsevents@gmail.com
Lastly, I’d like to emphasize how grateful we are to local rescues and venues for their support and trust in our events We wouldn’t be here without that!
Get in touch:
Instagram: @barks.brews.beyond
Facebook: Barks, Brews, & Beyond
Email: barksnbrewsevents@gmail.com
WORDS BY LYDIA
PODOBNIK
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LITTLE GYPSY’S FINE JEWELRY, GIFTS & GALLERY
Little Gypsy’s Fine Jewelry, Gifts and Gallery is an awardwinning hidden gem in Port Moody, home to over 50 local B.C. artists. Situated in a tiny 1920’s era heritage house, owner Lydia Podobnik has brought together a diverse group of artists of all ages and backgrounds - jewelers, carvers, visual artists, photographers and more, each with a unique and distinct style Lydia herself has been a silversmith for over 20 years, and aside from the many items on the shelves including earrings, rings, bracelets and more, creates unique custom designs Many of the pieces in the gallery are one-of-a-kind, and how nice is it to know that no one will ever have the same piece you do?
Little Gypsy’s opened in January of 2015 when Lydia made the exciting and terrifying decision to leave her career in healthcare and dedicate herself full-time to her art. Although she has a lifelong background in painting as well as stone and wood carving, the focus was to be silversmithing, and over a decade later the gallery has gained many dedicated customers, and friends, now adorned in beautiful jewelry crafted right here in their back yard.
Alongside an incredible collection of handmade jewelry and art is a large selection of metaphysical items, everything from tarot and oracle cards, hand poured candles, healing stones and crystals, sage, singing bowlsthe list goes on and on, as well as eclectic gift items. Lydia is always on the lookout for things you don’t see everywhere, not only in the hand-crafted creations, but also in the metaphysical and gift side of the shop, and it is often commented by customers old and new that they’ve never seen such a large selection of unusual pieces. Gargoyles, leather journals, beautiful calligraphy sets, a little bit of
One of the things people love about Little Gypsy’s is the fact that the artists are all B.C. residents, many right here in the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas, but also Vancouver Island, Vernon, Salt Spring, Maine Island and Galiano. Lydia wanted to give as many artists as possible a chance to show their work, and the gallery is often described as a mini museum, filled to the rafters with beautiful creations accessible to every budget The jewelry is all sterling silver, 14k goldfill, copper and bronze, the highest of quality and with many one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else!
Whether you’re looking for a gift for a special someone, or your special self, there really is something for everyone at Little Gypsy’s It is a place of creative energy, a place of welcome, and often a place of finding what you didn’t know you were looking for. Unless of course you know exactly what you’re looking for and where to find it - a tiny heritage house in the Inlet District full of wonder, history and a visual feast.
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
See you soon:
49 Queens Street, Po
Email: littlegypsys@sha
Phone: 604-931-2662
Instagram: @little gyps
Website: www littlegyp
Facebook: Little Gypsy’
Connect the dots! What is it?
Answer:
Draw faces on the pumpkins!
Plant Now, Bloom Later
With a little autumn effort, your containers will dazzle through fall, then bloom back to life in spring.
WORDS BY ALEX
JOHNSON
IMAGES PROVIDED BY GARDENWORKS
Shorter days and chilly nights might have you packing up the patio - but before you call it a season, there’s one last chance to bring some magic to your space. Even if you garden on a balcony, a front step, or a small patch by the door, you don’t need a yard to create big impact. With a few layers of bulbs and a splash of fall colour on top, a simple pot can offer beauty that spans multiple seasons.
Fall bulbs - hidden just below the surface - hold a quiet promise. Tucked into containers now, they’ll sleep through winter and burst into bloom just as spring begins. All they ask is a little planning and a place to chill
Why Plant Bulbs in the Fall?
Many popular spring flowers - like tulips, daffodils, crocus, and snowdrops - need a period of cold to trigger growth. Planting them in fall gives them that head start. For smallspace gardeners, bulbs are a dream: compact, affordable, and capable of delivering serious wow-factor in early spring.
Best Bulbs for Containers
Choose a mix of early-, mid-, and late-spring bloomers to keep your pot flowering for weeks. Some top picks for containers:
Tulips – Endless colours; compact types do best in wind
Daffodils – Easy and dependable; try miniatures like ‘Tête-à-Tête.’
Hyacinths – Oh so fragrant!
Crocus & Snowdrops – Early risers with charm.
Muscari (Grape Hyacinth) – Great for edging or layering
Stick to shorter or mid-height varieties, and mix types for staggered blooms
How to Plant
Start with a pot at least 12” deep, with drainage holes. Add a layer of gravel or coarse material at the bottom, then fill partway with quality potting mix Mix in bonemeal or slow-release bulb food to support root growth
Layer bulbs from largest at the bottom (like tulips) to smallest near the top (like snowdrops) Cover with soil, water well, and place the pot somewhere it can stay cool through winter
Add Fall Flair
Top your pot with cool-season favourites like pansies, violas, ornamental kale, heuchera, or variegated ivy These will give you colour through the fall, and bulbs will rise through them in spring
Want even more seasonal charm? Try grouping pots with decorative gourds or pumpkins for a festive fall feel - then swap them out for evergreen boughs, pinecones, or lights as winter approaches.
Not Into Flowers? Try Garlic
If flowers aren’t your thing, fall is also the perfect time to plant garlic in containers. Tucked in now, cloves will root through winter and reward you with fresh, flavourful heads by summer. Growing your own food - even in a small space - can be surprisingly satisfying
So don’t hang up your trowel just yet A little effort now can bring colour, flavour, and joy for months to come
See you soon:
2575 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam, B.C., V3E 1K9 (Just a 5 minute drive from Inlet District!) lnstagram: @gardenworkscanada
Facebook: GARDENWORKS Canada
Website: www.gardenworks.ca
Phone: 604-648-0230
Osteria Povera: A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Port Moody
WORDS & PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE PETERSON
The concept of Cucina Povera can be found in every society and is really about making great food with simple yet high quality and available ingredients
Experience the heart of Puglia with our Cucina Povera dishes, where simplicity meets flavour and every step counts. Rooted in tradition and the ideology of avoiding waste, we celebrate humble ingredients by utilizing fresh tomatoes and homemade pasta.
Crafted with love and a touch of history, our in-house pomodoro sauce embodies this spirit, ensuring that every bite is a true taste of Puglia. For the love for sharing good food and good company.
But Osteria Povera isn’t just about the food - it’s about the full dining experience The restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for everything from date nights to family celebrations Guests linger at the table, enjoying lively conversations, attentive service, and the restaurant’s carefully curated bar program Among the highlights is the Negroni Mesquite smoked, a house favourite that has quickly become a local signature as well as our Grappa based Cocktails Balanced, bold, and beautifully crafted, it pairs perfectly with Osteria Povera’s menu or can be savoured on its own as the ideal start to the evening.
For those who love exploring new flavours, the cocktail list offers an inventive selection alongside classic Italian pours. Wine lovers will also appreciate a thoughtful list that celebrates both Italian vineyards and local B.C. producers, designed to complement every dish.
“Osteria Povera isn’t just about the foodit’s about the full dining experience. The restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect setting for everything from date nights to family celebrations.”
Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting Port Moody for the first time, Osteria Povera offers an experience that’s both authentically Italian and unmistakably welcoming It’s a place to slow down, raise a glass, and share in the joy of good food and good company
Discover Osteria Povera at 2331 Clarke Street, Port Moody - where Italy meets community, and every meal feels like home.
Meet our Feature Pet
WORDS BY COURTNEY BURNETT
PHOTOS BY KAYLEIGH HANSEN & COURTNEY BURNETT
Say hello to Beau - a rescue from Saskatchewan who has settled into Port Moody living!
Beau was meant to be a temporary foster, but after just three days, it was clear he was home for good - a joyful “foster fail” that no one regrets for a second
Beau’s favourite hobby is patrolling the Port Moody trails for the best sticks. He has a special talent for finding the biggest one around and proudly parading it in front of everyone before flopping down to chew it in the shade. His most impressive talent, however, is being able to hear the rustling of a cheese wrapper (whether it be a Babybel, cheddar, etc.) from any corner of the house Beau has yet to meet a cheese he didn’t like - we affectionately refer to it as “paying the cheese tax” in our home
Being still in that “puppy phase”, Beau also enjoys a romp around the local Port Moody dog parks, chasing his favourite orange ball until the sun goes down. Despite his playful bursts of energy, Beau knows how to embrace Port Moody’s easygoing lifestyle, taking in the inlet air and forest scents on his walks before claiming his favourite corner of the patio at home.
While we’ve tried to turn Beau into a “true” British Columbian, camping has only shown us his “diva” side (we like to affectionately blame his attitude on his Malamute genes) He hates sleeping in tents with a burning passion and his glares of “can we go home yet” could probably burn a hole in you BUT Beau has become a hiking fanatic, being a big fan of the ever-sopopular Jug Island hike where he gets to splash around in the water at the end as a reward
Beau will be turning two this September, and if you’re in Port Moody, you’ll likely spot him celebrating at Brewer’s Row, lounging on a patio with a birthday bandana, surrounded by his “paw-some” friends. He has perfected the art of roaming between neighbouring tables in search of pats and scratches, before finding the perfect spot to sprawl out with a good Yak Chew.
If you see Beau around, don’t hesitate to say hello - he’ll likely beg you for some head scratches on the patio!
Follow Beau:
778-882-6545
tnenadic@hotmail ca
Website: skinenvylaserandmedispa com
Instagram: @skinenvylaserandmedispa
Facebook: Skin Envy Laser & Medi Spa
