RIVER DISTRICT
OUR COMMUNITY
GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT
PET CARE & ADVENTURES
PATIO SEASON IS HERE FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Artist Spotlight: WKNDRS
RIVER DISTRICT
L I V I N G
www.riverdistrictliving.ca
riverdistrictliving.ca@gmail.com
@riverdistrictlivingmagazine
@riverdistrictliving
@riverdistrictlivingrealestate
Land Acknowledgement
We recognize and acknowledge that River District is situated on the unceded traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Contributing Photographers / Artists
Rachel Rivera
Claire Ouchi
@wkndrsforlife
@pets through the lens
Katherine Hall
Susan Nguyen
Fraserview Veterinary Hospital
Joseph Cruz
Lily Liang
Cheery Hayashi
Daniel Johnston
Editor-in-Chief
Katherine Hall
Carlo Cheung
Wesgroup
Gretchen Cruz
Kevin Smith
Arnie Chang
Bianca Cloutier
Contributing Writers
Rachel Rivera
Claire Ouchi
@wkndrsforlife
Fraserview Veterinary Hospital
Dr. Carmen Chan
Gretchen Cruz
Kevin Smith
Linh Nguyen
Arnie Chang
Cover Art
WKNDRS - Rachel Rivera & Claire Ouchi
Features
SUSAN NGUYEN & CARLO CHEUNG
Proud Pawrents of Bao & Buster
Susan Nguyen
Carlo Cheung
Wesgroup
Arnie & Nancy Chang
Joseph Cruz
Tania Berrios
Daniel Johnston
Bianca Cloutier
Katherine Hall
Coco Okamoto
Content Director
Katherine Hall
RACHEL RIVERA & CLAIRE OUCHI
Feature Artists: WKNDRS
JOSEPH CRUZ, TANIA BERRIOS, & AUSTIN FISHMEN
Subtle Flex Street Wear
RHYS GIANNARELLI & DR. CARMEN CHAN
Fraserview Veterinary Hospital
GRETCHEN CRUZ & KEVIN SMITH
Vancouver Pet Parents
Dear Neighbours
Thank you so much for reading our editorial magazine! This is our newest way to connect with our River District community and showcase and appreciate the River District Living lifestyle that we are so lucky to enjoy here in our beautiful neighbourhood. This was intended to be a simple newsletter at first, but after receiving so much amazing content from our local contributors and friends of River District, a magazine was the only way to do it all justice.
As you may know, this journey of creating River District Living has inspired me to become a licensed Real Estate professional. If you have questions about buying or selling a home in River District, or if you would like to be featured in future issues of River District Living Magazine, please get in touch with me
Sincerely,
KatherineHall
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Mural Artist Spotlight: Rachel Rivera & Claire Ouchi
WRITTEN
BY RACHEL RIVERA & CLAIRE OUCHI
ART BY WKNDRS (RACHEL RIVERA & CLAIRE OUCHI)
Our work aims to create memorable and impactful visual experiences, always with a focus on community, connection, and creativity. Each project we undertake is a testament to our dedication to spreading positive vibes through art.
Rachel Rivera and Claire Ouchi, the dynamic duo behind WKNDRS, bring a vibrant and unorthodox approach to art and design. Known for their light and playful aesthetics, Rachel and Claire have cultivated a reputation for creating impactful visual experiences that leave a lasting impression. Their work spans a variety of mediums, including murals, graphic design, experiential activations, and textile design, all infused with an effervescent use of color and imaginative concepts.
As WKNDRS, Rachel and Claire have collaborated with renowned brands such as Lululemon, Aritzia, Arc'teryx, and Fairmont Hotels, demonstrating their ability to adapt their unique style to diverse industries including lifestyle, travel, hospitality, fashion, beauty, and food and beverage. Their projects often involve creating engaging content and visual storytelling that resonates with communities and promotes positive vibes.
Both artists are committed to fostering community, connection, and creativity Their partnership extends beyond art and design to include photography, marketing, and social media management, helping brands build a strong online presence. Rachel and Claire's passion for art and design is matched by their dedication to collaboration, making them sought-after creatives for public art projects and brand campaigns Through WKNDRS, they continue to inspire and uplift, bringing a fresh perspective to every project they undertake.
ARTWORK PROJECTS
The WKNDRS' contribution to the River District mural and artwork project reflects our commitment to vibrant, communitycentric art. Our mural, a central feature of the Riverside Street Vibe Festival, encapsulates the lively spirit of the area with its bold colors and dynamic shapes. The artwork is designed to be an immersive experience, drawing viewers in with its playful and energetic aesthetic This mural not only serves as a visual delight but also as a beacon of creativity and positivity for the community.
During the Riverside Street Vibe Festival, we engaged with the community through a live painting session. This interactive element allowed festival-goers to witness the creative process firsthand, fostering a deeper connection between the artists and the audience. The live painting session was a celebration of artistic expression and community collaboration, highlighting the importance of public art in bringing people together.
In addition to the mural, we designed a photo zone at the entranceway of the River District. This space, adorned with our signature playful and colorful elements, provides a perfect backdrop for visitors to capture memorable moments. It’s an interactive piece that invites people to become a part of the art, creating a shared experience that extends beyond mere observation
Beyond the River District, we have continued to work on various exciting projects. Recently, we completed a series of 3D ice cream installations as part of Vancouver's '93 Days of Summer' campaign These whimsical installations bring a touch of joy and creativity to public spaces, encouraging engagement and delight.
Our work aims to create memorable and impactful visual experiences, always with a focus on community, connection, and creativity. Each project we undertake is a testament to our dedication to spreading positive vibes through art
Introducing Our Annual Membership Plan: Unlimited In-person Exams
BY FRASERVIEW VETERINARY HOSPITAL
As pet owners, we always want the best for our furry friends, but sometimes, the costs of regular vet visits can be daunting To help ease these concerns and provide peace of mind, we at Fraserview Veterinary Hospital are excited to introduce our brand-new Membership Plan For a limited time, you can sign up for an annual membership and enjoy unlimited FearFree in-person exams for a whole year. This plan ensures that pets receive the consistent care they need without adding financial stress to their owners.
We sat down with Dr. Carmen Chan, the owner of Fraserview Veterinary Hospital, to discuss this exciting new offering and its potential benefits for pet owners.
Dr. Chan, thank you for speaking with us today. What inspired the Membership Plan?
Dr Chan: Absolutely! We’ve noticed that many pet owners are concerned about the cost and availability of vet services, especially in unexpected situations We wanted to create a plan that makes veterinary care more affordable and removes the stress of worrying about consultation fees. Our goal is to ensure that pets get the consistent care they need and owners can have peace of mind.
How does this benefit the standard of care?
Dr. Chan: By removing the consultation cost barrier, we can significantly improve the standard of care. For example, many common conditions we see in pets such as skin allergies or recurring ear infections often require multiple follow-up visits. With this membership, pet owners are encouraged to bring their pets in for these necessary follow-ups without the worry of consultation fees, allowing us to closely monitor and adjust treatments as needed, leading to better health outcomes.
Can you provide examples of how this plan benefits pet care for different stages of a pet’s life?
Dr Chan: Absolutely For puppies and kittens, the first year is crucial as they require multiple visits for vaccinations and check-ups With our plan, owners can bring them in for all these essential visits without additional consultation costs, ensuring they get their vaccinations on schedule and any early health issues are addressed promptly. For adult pets, regular checkups are vital for early detection of issues such as dental disease or heart conditions. Our membership encourages these regular visits. And for senior pets, frequent monitoring is often necessary to manage age-related conditions such as arthritis and diabetes. The plan ensures these visits are affordable, allowing us to provide continuous care as their needs change.
How does this plan benefit pets with chronic conditions?
Dr. Chan: Pets with chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease really require much more frequent assessments by veterinarians in order to adjust their treatment plans based on the progression of their disease process. Too often in practice, we see families limited in their ability to return for these visits due to the financial burden of the cost of consultation fees and so this leaves practitioners having to make their medical decisions without a full understanding of what really has been going on with their patients at home. The membership plan allows owners to bring their pets in for frequent check-ups without the burden of consultation fees, ensuring that we can keep a close eye on their progress and make timely adjustments to their care.
What other benefits does the membership plan offer?
Dr. Chan: Besides the unlimited in-person exams, our membership plan provides peace of mind. Knowing that you can bring your pet in for regular check-ups without worrying about consultation fees encourages proactive care Additionally, this plan helps build a strong relationship between our veterinary team and your pet, which is crucial for personalized and effective care
Can you explain how the membership plan helps in emergency situations?
Dr. Chan: While the membership plan doesn’t cover the cost of emergency treatments, having unlimited consultations ensures that we can see your pet quickly if an urgent issue arises. Our team receives phone calls daily from pet parents wondering if they should bring their pet in for a concern they have By subscribing to this membership plan, you don’t need to wonder if your concern is worth visiting us, simply just book your pet in with one of our vets and have your questions answered directly! This can be incredibly reassuring in situations where timely medical advice is crucial. By being proactive with regular check-ups, we can also identify and manage potential issues before they become emergencies.
What should pet owners know about the limitations of the membership plan?
Dr. Chan: It’s important for pet owners to understand that while the membership covers unlimited consultations, it does not include costs for vaccinations, medications, treatments, export exams, or specialty services such as behavioral, orthopedic, ophthalmology, sonography, and radiology Additionally, the membership is valid only at the location of purchase and is non-transferable between pets or owners.
This sounds like a wonderful opportunity for pet owners. How can they sign up?
Dr. Chan: Signing up is easy! Pet owners can visit our clinic or call us to enroll in the membership plan. We’re excited to offer this new service and look forward to providing exceptional care for our community’s pets.
Fraserview Veterinary Hospital 6637 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, BC, V5P 3X9
Phone: 604-265-6715
Email: info@fraserviewvet.ca
Website: www.fraserviewvet.ca
Instagram: @fraserview vet
Facebook: Fraserview Veterinary Hospital
Love for River District
River District is such a vibrant community! We have made great friendships with our neighbours and our dogs have made furry friends too We love that we can find a range of different restaurants just right outside our door. Grocery shopping couldn't be any easier as well. River District is still a growing community and we are happy to continue being part of this amazing place!
- Susan & Carlo , Bao & Buster’s Pawrents
What we love about River District is its vibrant sense of community and the harmonious blend of urban living with natural beauty. The area's dynamic atmosphere, coupled with its commitment to arts and culture, makes it an inspiring and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike. It’s a perfect canvas for creativity and connection.
- Rachel & Claire , WKNDRS
It’s the perfect blend of convenience and community here, and we love it! We also like that it’s quiet, safe, and dog-friendly River District isn’t too far from anything either - it’s a 20 minute drive to wherever we need to go. We’re also loving the new restaurants that are popping up, and can’t wait to see what else emerges!
- Gretchen & Kevin , Vancouver Pet Parents
Tania and Joe have been residing in the River District since 2021 along with their son and very quirky dog Miko. Over the past few years, we have really enjoyed seeing all the new Restaurants/Eateries/Food Trucks that have been popping up along with being able to just walk down the street to access so many services. The best part is that RD seems to be filled with talented entrepreneurs/small businesses and it's been amazing connecting with our neighbours and we look forward to working with other small businesses in our community!
- Tania & Joseph , Subtle Flex Street Wear
Since our kids go to Willowbrae, we have good connections with other parents and their kids, so this neighbourhood is very good for families with young children Also store staff are very kind to our kids and dog, which makes us very comfortable living in River District. Surrounded by nature, the walking path is good for exploring what kind of plants we can find with our kids. My dog loves to walk around River Walk as well.
- Coco , Coco Mobile Hair Stylist
What we love about River District? Its sense of community stands out. We love walking our dog Gus for our morning walks and chatting with all the people in this great neighbourhood! What other area would you say hello to every person you pass by? Not many. We also love how pet friendly River District is.
- Arnie & Nancy, Killarney Community Centre & Pawrents of Gus
Subtle Flex Street Wear
WRITTEN BY JOSEPH CRUZ & TANIA BERRIOS
PHOTOS BY JOSEPH CRUZ
Let Us Introduce Ourselves
We Are Subtle Flex Streetwear, a Family & Friend owned Custom and Vintage Apparel Retailer. Working out of the River District, we love helping other small businesses establish themselves by providing custom branded Tees, Hoodies, Polos, Crewnecks, Pants, Safety Apparel, Sport Uniforms, School Clubs, Band Wear and More…
Our custom apparel business offers personalized clothing and accessories options for both personal and business needs. For personal use, you can create unique designs on t-shirts, onesies, hoodies, or hats using vinyl and heat press transfers. Customers can have their favorite quote, images, or logos printed on high-quality garments like Gildan, ATC or Nike.
For businesses, we provide custom branded apparel using a variety of brands such as ATC (Our Fav Brand), Coal Harbour, and North Face in addition to Safety Gear For example, we can help businesses create professional uniforms with their logos which could include Hi Vis vinyl for safety reasons (think construction sites or overnight productions) or splurge on your employees with Nike Gear. Not to mention, what better way to advertise than to have others wear your LOGO, either as a give-a-way or as merch sold to them.
This division of our company is overseen by Joseph Cruz, who serves as the primary point of contact for all custom inquiries and will guide you through the process of placing your custom order. DM him on Instagram @sfsw customs to start your order! Here is small overview of how the process goes:
Email us with your logo, a little background about your event or business and we work with you to find the best blanks available.
Then we put together a mock-up to your specifications and needs along with a quote for your approval.
You approve the mock-up and quote.
Next step is for us to order the materials and start production on your order
Each order is unique and will have its own time frame for completion, factoring in quantity and complexity of design.
Website: www.sfsw.ca
Email: subtleflexstreetwear@gmail.com
Social Media Handles: Instagram: @sfsw customs
TikTok: @subtleflexstreetwear
Facebook: Subtle Flex Streetwear
Now let's talk about our vintage gems! We offer a handpicked selection of unique and stylish vintage items for those looking for something special with a touch of nostalgia. The thrifting and curation process is a meticulous one. Austin Fishmen, our curator, scours various sources to handpick each vintage clothing/ accessory item, looking for unique pieces that showcase quality, style and character. Once the items are selected, we carefully inspect and authenticate each piece to ensure it meets our standards. From there, our team curates a collection that reflects a blend of history, trendiness, and individuality. You can find these gems online at www sfsw ca
Last but not least, our social media is run by Tania Berrios who also supports her Husband Joseph Cruz with the custom orders. Tania and Joe have been residing in the River District since 2021 along with their son and very quirky dog Miko. Over the past few years, we have really enjoyed seeing all the new Restaurants/Eateries/ that have been popping up along e to just walk down the street to y services. The best part is that RD illed with talented entrepreneurs/ es and it's been amazing connecting hbours and we look forward to other small businesses in our e,
FREE, FAMILY & PET
FRIENDLY EVENT
Saturday August 24th 12-6pm
2023PHOTOZONEBY:@WKNDRSFORLIFE
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Vancouver Pet Parents
WRITTEN BY GRETCHEN CRUZ
At Vancouver Pet Parents, we specialize in group walks, drop-in visits, and private leashed walks. Whether you have a young puppy, senior dog, or even a finicky feline, we've got you covered.
Our drop-in visits include:
A bathroom break and short walk (+ playtime with our own dog, Dinosaur, if they're into that)
Their lunch/dinner and fresh water refills
Medication administration if needed
For cats: feeding and litter box cleaning
We clean up any accidents that might happen while you're away
We can even bring in your mail/packages and water your plants
Lots of text and photo updates for peace of mind!
This is perfect for puppies that can't be left alone for too long, senior dogs with strict schedules, cats that want to enjoy the comfort of their own home while you're away on vacation, or if you are out later than expected and need someone to come in to let your dogs out so you don't have to worry about rushing home right away!
We mainly offer off-leash adventures where your puppy will learn to socialize properly with other wellbehaved dogs in a small group setting. Plus, our excursions aren't just about fun; we incorporate training exercises, focusing on recall and any specific training goals you have for your pet.
We also offer add-on bath services at the end of every adventure, to ensure your pup returns home squeaky clean, when a towel isn't enough.
At Vancouver Pet Parents, we're more than just dog walkers; we're dedicated "pawrents" that extend the care and training you provide, ensuring your pet's enrichment with every adventure Tired and happythat's how we'll return your dog.
https://www.vancouverpetparents.com/ Instagram: @vancouverpetparents
TikTok: @vancouverpetparents
Whil ' d i d and the i why we c g you're w en our a
Email: vancouverpetparents@gmail.com
Bao & Buster, the dynamic duo!
Pets of the Month
BY SUSAN NGUYEN & CARLO CHEUNG
PHOTOS BY SUSAN NGUYEN & CARLO CHEUNG
Bao and Buster, the dynamic duo of the household. They bring boundless energy, loyalty, and heaps of joy into our lives! These two furry brothers couldn't be more different, yet their unique personalities complement each other in the most heartwarming ways.
Bao is our 2-year-old energetic cutie. He knows how to push his parents’ and older brother’s buttons He can play with his furry friends or l d th h f h ! D it
Buster is our 12-year-old golden boy. He finds joy in the simplest of pleasures, whether it's chasing after a ball at the dog park or cuddling with mom and dad on the couch. Buster likes to eat, sleep, and repeat Sometimes he will cave in and play with Bao. If you have food on you, you will find Buster right by your side giving you his puppy eyes to persuade you to feed him.
Together, Bao and Buster make an unbeatable team Despite their differences, they share an unbreakable bond through countless shared adventures and lazy afternoons spent basking in the sun. They complement each other perfectly, with Bao's boundless energy serving as the perfect counterbalance to Buster's calm demeanour Whether they're exploring the great outdoors or simply lounging by mom and dad, Bao and Buster are always by each other's side.
Follow Bao & Buster:
Patios of River Dist
Summer has officially arrived and we are ready for it here in River District! From tried and true to new additions, here are some amazing places to enjoy food and drink outside in the beautiful summer sun in our neighbourhood.
LUCKY TACO
Lucky Taco is a semi-authentic taqueria located in the heart of Vancouver’s River District. We offer delicious tacos and small plates prepared with wellraised meats, sustainable seafood, and local seasonal produce. Our bar serves an excellent selection of Mexican and local beers, as well as an impressive list of tequila & mezcal served straight up, in flights, or with freshly pressed juices in Vancouver's very best margaritas.
Instagram @luckytacoyvr
Menu https://www.luckytaco.ca/lucky-taco-rd
Hours: Patio 4pm - Close, everyday
Serves alcohol
Happy Hour Specials
Wheelchair accessible
Child friendly
Instagram @bufalayvr
Menu https://www.bufala.ca/menubrd
Hours: Patio open during restaurant hours
BUFALA
Bufala is the perfect place in the neighbourhood where friends and families can gather for delicious food & drink every day of the week. We prepare fresh, scratch-made classic & contemporary pizzas in the Napolitana style - blistered to perfection in our 800 degree stone oven - along with a tasty selection of Italian-inspired small plates and desserts. And as great meals require great drinks, we also offer a delicious selection of cocktails, wines, craft beers, and espresso.
Serves alcohol
Happy Hour Specials
Wheelchair accessible
Child friendly
Can accommodate large groups
LOCAL PUBLIC EATERY
The Patio at Local River District is the place to be! Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and good vibes at Local's inviting patio. Nestled in the heart of the River District our outdoor oasis offers a charming setting to unwind with friends over craft cocktails and great bites
Whether it's a sunny afternoon or a starlit evening, our patio promises a memorable experience where every sip and bite celebrates community and "Local" charm.
Serves alcohol
Happy Hour Specials
Wheelchair accessible
Pet friendly (Pup Patty available)
Child friendly
Can accommodate large groups
Covered and heated
Instagram @localpubliceatery
Menu https://localpubliceatery.com/neighbourhoods/river-district/menu/ Hours: Patio closes at 11pm
BOKETTO TEA BAR
We are an artisanal bubble tea café that serves delectable soft serve, cookies and mochi waffles. We offer lots of seasonal items throughout the year. We have an outdoor seating area in front of the store if you would like to enjoy your drinks and soft serve with you pup outside We also offer self serve ordering if you are waiting outside with your dog Place your order and we’ll bring your drinks out to you.
Instagram @thebokettolife Menu https://bokettopickup.square.site/ Hours: Patio open during business hours, subject to weather
SPECIAL EVENT:
Vancouver Ice Cream Festival
June 21 - Aug 5, 2024
Happy Hour Specials
Wheelchair accessible Pet friendly
Child friendly
Can accommodate large groups
Photo credit: Cheery Hayashi
Photo by: Lily Liang
Looking to buy or sell in the River District, or have general questions? Please reach out to see how I can help.Thank you!
Katherine
https://wesgroup.ca/residential/new -homes/harlin/
https://wesgroup.ca/harlin/
https://wesgroup.ca/residential/ne w-homes/ardea/
https://wesgroup.ca/ardea/
This communication is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract.
Katherine Hall lives in River District and is a REALTOR® at Dexter Realty
