RIVER DISTRICT
L I V I N G
OUR COMMUNITY
GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT
ARTISTS & ARTISANS
LOCAL HOLIDAY EVENTS NAILS , PAWS , & PRINTS
RIVER DISTRICT
L I V I N G
www.riverdistrictliving.ca
riverdistrictliving.ca@gmail.com
@riverdistrictliving
@riverdistrictlivingmagazine @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
Rory Doyle
Vancouver Mural Festival
Gabriel Martins
Emma Peters
Sandra Ådahl
Lyne Reyes
Rick Lin
Raise the Woof
Photography
Cover Art
Linh Nguyen
Teddy Taylor
Barbara Borchardt
Katherine Hall
Tugboat Landing Artisan
Market Vendors
Fraserview Veterinary
Hospital
Mural by Rory Doyle
SANDRA ÅDAHL
Pin Doll Nails
Contributing Writers
Rory Doyle
Joanna L
Tony L
Sandra Ådahl
Lyne Reyes
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director
Katherine Hall
Features
RORY DOYLE
Artist & Muralist “Legwork”
BARBARA BORCHARDT
Tugboat Landing Artisan Market
Linh Nguyen
Teddy Taylor
Barbara Borchardt
Katherine Hall
Advertising Sales
Katherine Hall
LINH NGUYEN
Boketto Dessert Cafe
JOANNA & TONY TEDDY TAYLOR
DEXTER & LYNE REYES
Proud Pawrents of Ollie Bearsockz
Factory Twenty Custom Printing
Love for River District
When I visit River District, it feels very community based like its own sub-city. There was no shortage of engagement from the families on their walks along the pathway while painting Legwork. Everyone I encountered was very friendly. I also think it’s great having urban living near the Fraser River.
- Rory , Artist & Muralist
One of the things I love most about the River District community is how it offers the best of both worlds. It’s just steps away from the big city, yet it has that small-community feel that makes it so special. People here are incredibly neighbourly and supportive, always looking out for one another. There’s a genuine sense of connection, and I’ve really felt that since moving back to Vancouver. It’s the kind of place where I can truly feel at home.
Plus, I get to pet all the neighbourhood dogs when I’m out on walks, which is definitely one of the perks of living here!
- Sandra , Pin Doll Nails
Over the last two years, we’ve had the privilege of getting to know so many of our wonderful customers, whether they’re human or furry! Watching this community grow, seeing familiar faces, and witnessing our regulars’ kids growing up alongside us has been one of the most rewarding parts of being in River District Thank you for being a part of our story!
- Linh , Boketto Dessert Cafe
River District is truly such a family-oriented neighbourhood, and we find the residents are ever so friendly. The neighbourhood has an abundance of greenery alongside the waterfront while still being situated in the city. We love being able to go for regular family walks with the kiddos and running into familiar faces for a quick hello!
- Joanna & Tony, Pawrents to Ollie
Dexter is grateful for his home in the picturesque River District He enjoys taking strolls by the river The folks of this area are friendly, and I always feel safe in this growing community
- Dexter & Lyne, Factory Twenty Custom Printing
I moved to the River District with my brother in 2023. It was the only place he was able to find affordable accessible housing as a wheelchair user. We both love living here and really appreciate the community. We enjoy having a grocery store, pharmacy, transit, and lots of restaurant options available to us at a walkable distance.
- Taylor , Bearsockz
I moved to Fraser Pointe 1 at 3033 East Kent Avenue and Kerr in 1991. It was then one of the first rental towers built in the Fraserlands area. I stayed along the river because of the natural beauty and the sense of community. The walking paths and trails provide so much opportunity for connection among residents of River District. I feel these natural spaces go a long way to fostering community and people’s connection to this unique part of Vancouver that I’m so proud to call home.
- Barbara , Tugboat Landing
Artisan Market
Dear Neighbours
We are in the home stretch of 2024 and signs of holiday magic are all around us! From fairy lights in River District Town Centre, to festive eats and events around town, it is time to celebrate the season!
We have an abundance of talent in our community. Please consider supporting your local neighbouring businesses for your events, catering, and gifts! Many of our local restaurants not only offer catering, but also event space for your gatherings and parties. Our talented makers and artisans offer gifts that are hand-made with love and will be cherished by their recipients. Get party ready with local hair, nail, and make-up artists and clothing designers. Then let one of our many talented photographers capture the moment!
This year will be the 8th anniversary of the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market This not-to-bemissed two-day market will take place on Nov 30th and Dec 1st and boasts a wonderfully curated range of gifts with a focus on local businesses – it is truly an amazing way to support your River District community and find amazing gifts for loved ones and maybe a couple for yourself as well. We hope to see you there!
And as always, if you are looking to make a move in the upcoming months, I am here to help you with your real estate needs!
Sincerely,
KatherineHall
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Contact us for info, features, advertising riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail com
Mural Artist Spotlight:
Rory Doyle MURAL STATEMENT
This mural, Legwork, is inspired by its surrounding environment – outdoors on a walking path, promoting healthy living via vitamin D and movement Its palette celebrates diversity in both colour and style. The focus on legs and forward motion also serves as a reminder to do the legwork in a time of oversaturated shortcuts and misinformation.
The focus on legs and forward
Web:
“Legwork” by Rory Doyle
ARTIST BIO
A Vancouver based artist with a background spanning over 20 years; evolving from a 3D production artist to full time freelance artist specializing in large scale murals, fine art, illustration and packaging.
His work finds emotion in the viewer through vibrant palettes; having colour, figures and shapes tell stories It often celebrates surrounding community, its diversity, engagement with each other and their city. Traditional and non-traditional relationships of shapes and colour mirror this while creating balance and functionality in both the piece itself and the architecture that surrounds it.
Some of Rory’s featured clients include Birkenstock, MEC, BMO, Vancouver Canucks, YVR, UBC, Vancouver International Jazz Festival, SunRype, Vancouver Mural Festival, City of Richmond, Providence Healthcare and more. To see more online, visit seftoncreative.com or @rory doyle on social media.
WRITTEN BY SANDRA ÅDAHL PHOTOGRAPHS BY SANDRA ÅDAHL
Hi, I’m Sandra, and I’m excited to share my journey and my new nail tech business with the River District community! Originally, I’m from Sweden, but I moved to Canada years ago after meeting my husband in Vancouver We eventually made our way to Alberta, where I worked as a project accountant for about eight years
Last spring, we decided to move back to Vancouver, and we instantly fell in love with the River District there’s just something special about this tight-knit, welcoming community that made us know this was where we’d be for a long time.
Nail art has always been a passion of mine, and I’ve always dreamed of working in this field. I worked briefly with nails in the past, which only deepened my love for the craft. When I noticed there wasn’t a local nail tech here in the River District, I knew it was time to take a leap and give it a try So, I decided to follow my heart and start my own nail business
What really excites me about this work is the connection I get to make with my clients. I love hearing their stories and making their time with me an enjoyable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s so rewarding to see the look on someone’s face when they leave with a fresh set of nails that they absolutely love. That’s the part of the job that really makes me smile.
Beyond just nails, I wanted to start a business that would give back to the community I now call home. I’m all about making people feel pampered and cared for, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute in my own way Whether it's preparing someone for a special event or simply helping them unwind, it’s all about creating a positive experience for every client
I’m really looking forward to meeting more people in the River District and building relationships with neighbours. I love how this community is growing, and I’m excited to be a part of it!
Book your appointment:
Celebrate the Season with
WRITTEN BY LINH NGUYEN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINH NGUYEN
Catering & Event Space
Boketto Dessert Cafe is excited to be a part of this festive season by expanding our catering services and bringing back some fan-favorite holiday treats. Whether you’re planning a cozy gathering, a company event, or a grand celebration, we’re ready to make your event special. Our catering options offer large quantities of our signature cookies and mini mochi waffles, and we can customize these delicious treats to suit your event’s theme or your guests’ tastes. Plus, for those looking for a warm, inviting space to celebrate with loved ones, Boketto is also available for private events and gatherings. For catering inquiries or to discuss rental options, email us at hello@bokettoteabar.com.
Holiday Treats
We’re also introducing a delightful assortment of Christmas cookies and new edible gifts, crafted to bring extra warmth to your holiday gatherings. Our seasonal treats have become a beloved tradition at Boketto, and this year’s lineup is designed to make your celebrations even sweeter. As a holiday reward, receive a $10 bonus card with every $50 gift card purchase this season, redeemable on our January 2025 menu. Enjoy a little something extra as you share the joy of Boketto with family and friends.
Special Gift
With every $50 gift card purchase this holiday season, you’ll receive a $10 bonus card valid for January 2025 menu items See store for details
Gingerbread Decorating
Mark your calendars! Our popular Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop is back this year, kicking off the week of November 17th with more dates added to accommodate the growing excitement. This hands-on experience has become a Boketto holiday tradition, and we’re thrilled to invite families and friends to join us in creating holiday memories together. Stay tuned for more details and sign-up information.
We Are Turning 2!
In addition, this November mark anniversary. Reflecting on this journey, from opening during the pandemic to today, we’ve grown with River District in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Opening without any prior food industry experience was a risk, but it’s allowed us to create a welcoming, vibrant space that reflects the spirit of our neighbourhood. With your support, we’ve participated in countless food festivals, introduced new and unique desserts, and have grown in more ways than one. We’re deeply grateful to each one of you who’s supported us along the way. We can’t wait to celebrate another holiday season with you!
3471 Sawmill Crescent Vancouver, BC V5S 0E3 https://bokettoteabar.com/ Instagram @thebokettolife TikTok @thebokettolife hello@bokettoteabar.com
Colour the pie!
What flavour is it?
Answer:
Count the leaves!
Answer:
Help the bear get to the cave!
What do bears do in the Fall?
Answer:
What do you love most about Fall? Draw a picture about it!
WRITTEN BY TEDDY TAYLOR
ARTWORK BY TEDDY TAYLOR
Hi there! My name is Taylor. I’m 23 years old, a Capricorn, and I live in the River District with my brother and my cat, Clam Chowder.
I spend my days working as a barista at Boketto, where I serve drinks and desserts to my community. I like to crochet, play video games like Pokémon and Animal Crossing, and bake. My favourite food is salmon sushi and my favourite drink is jasmine milk tea. However, much like a masked supervillain, I’m better known online under my artist moniker Teddy, or “Bearsockz”.
I graduated in 2023 from the Emily Carr University of Art and Design with a degree in Illustration, which unfortunately takes Gold, Silver, and Bronze on the podium of most useless university degrees. Thankfully, I’m more stubborn than my degree is useless, so I don’t have any plans to stop illustrating. My practice focuses a lot on cartoons, comics, mixed-media character work, and digital art I like to explore everyday life in my work, and I often incorporate scenes from around Vancouver or even locally here in River District.
My most beloved character, Teddy, is a small anthropomorphic dog barista who faces endless menial torment at the hands of me, their creator. I created Teddy to help me work through my own feelings of uncertainty as a small human barista who faces endless menial torment at the hands of the universe (if that wasn’t already evident by the fact that they are named after me - why are all artists so narcissistic?) Thankfully, my wonderful boss Linh doesn’t mind when I set up my little doodles at work for photos, because posting Teddy took me from 0 to 80,000 followers on Instagram - it turns out a lot of people can relate to the feeling of being small and not in control of your own life. Who knew?
I’ve been enjoying my modest success by continuing to do what I always do, which is draw and make drinks at work, but now I have an audience 27 times larger than the population of my little hometown on Vancouver Island. But I won’t let it get to my head, I promise. I hope to one day be employed as an artist in a professional capacity, whatever it is that means For now, I’m going to keep creating art, making drinks, and trying to enjoy being young and uncertain. I’m just a little paper dog in a big, scary world.
Instagram: @bearsockz
TikTok: @bearsockz teddytaylorart@gmail.com Shop: https://bearsockz.square.site/ (Re-stocks done on the 15th of each month)
I created Teddy to help me work through my own feelings of uncertainty as a small human barista who faces endless menial torment at the hands of the universe.
Factory Twenty Custom Printing
BY LYNE REYES
BY LYNE REYES
WRITTEN
PHOTOGRAPHY
demonstrated creative abilities since an early age and has competed in several competitions. His interest in the arts fueled his commercial ambitions
Connect with Dexter:
Facebook: Factory Twenty
Dexter spends his spare time painting, drawing, and designing, which he finds calming and a good stress relief. Dexter began designing and creating shirts for his family and friends as gifts and keepsakes.
During the 2020 pandemic, Dexter started his home-based business. He creates superhero masks and T-shirts for healthcare personnel. He creates logos for his clients. He is continually concerned with ensuring that his clients are satisfied with the work he does. As his printing business developed, he expanded into hoodies, sweaters, and tote bags, with plans to add more in the future
Like any other business, there will be slow times and busier times Dexter never stops marketing his business Seeing the joy on his clients' faces after receiving the finished product motivates him to continue his business, even if it does not yield a high profit.
Instagram: @custom print20
Email Address: factorytwenty20@gmail com
Contact Info: 672-338-9825
FREE ENTRY
FOLLOWUS ON INSTAGRAM
TUGBOATLANDING ARTISANMARKET
You Are Invited to the 8th Annual Tugboat Landing Artisan Market
WRITTEN BY BARBARA BORCHARDT PHOTOGRAPHS BY MARKET VENDORS
If you have a pet, which many of us do living in either West or East Fraserlands, you get to know your neighbours by virtue of all the walks and occasions when you run into each other whether at the elevator or strolling along the river Having had a very social and friendly dog, I met a lot of people on my daily walks From those dog walks, I learnt we had many talented creative people in this community and they knew other talented creatives who had businesses or side hustles. It is from those dog walk conversations, that the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market was born.
The impetus behind it all was my neighbour, Jill Bartlett, the creative force behind ScouterWear. I discovered that Jill is an incredibly talented designer with a degree from Emily Carr University of Art & Design. Beyond her strong artistic foundation, she also excels in e-learning, web development, and graphic design, making her a perfect fit to help launch an artisan market. Leveraging my years of experience in organizational, marketing, and event planning - along with strong local connections I built through creating the ILiveInEastVan website we came together to launch the very first Tugboat Landing Artisan Market on December 17, 2016. Our combined talents and networks made it a success, setting the stage for what has become a beloved annual tradition.
2010 East Kent Avenue S., Vancouver Saturday, November 30, 2024 (11am-5pm) Sunday, December 1, 2024 (11am-4pm) www.tLartisanmarket.com Instagram: @tugboatlandingartisanmarket
What is the Tugboat
First and foremost, brings everyone tog same time promoting local businesses. Our curated market draws from the local community as much as possible, but we leave a few applications open to other vendors to round out our offerings and bring in new talent. The Tugboat Landing Artisan Market is focused on gift giving for the holiday season and we pride ourselves on seeking out quality items.
We have a great line up of vendors this year including ScouterWear and FureverEco with dog wear and accessories, Barks & Biscuits with treats for your furry best friend. Sole Tibi Studio will be on hand with her stunning handmade silver jewellery as well as Littlewood Turning with a beautiful selection of handcrafted wood designs made from locally salvaged wood. Ava Luna’s Creations will be on hand with beautiful handmade organic all natural soaps and Knit Collective is back with handmade, cozy West Coast knitwear and plushy toys.
A market favourite Toon’s Hot Sauce is back with a selection of small batch hot sauces along side East
Cao Leather Goods will have a selection of handmade leather goods. ILiveInEastVan will be on hand with East Van merchandise including reusable tote bags, reflective patches and stickers. Bower Fibre Goods will be showcasing a selection of artfully crafted textiles. Cord & Stone will be featuring hand crocheted jewellery made from Argentium Silver. Looking for a great cup of coffee, Odd Couple Company is back with their single origin organic coffee made in small batches. Mad Lab Distillery will also be joining us with a variety of spirits made in small batches. Oopsie Daisy Ceramics will also be on hand showcasing their their handcrafted whimsical ceramic designs.
This year we welcome Sweet Pea Designs featuring the sweetest handmade garments and accessories for kids. Artsy Candle will be joining us with some uniquely scented candles, diffusers and room sprays. Arlos Naturals is also joining us with personal care products and treats for your pets. We are excited to have Chickadee Chocolate join us with an array of delectable sweet treats including chocolates, caramels, toffees, marshmallows and hot chocolate mixes. Last but not least, we are excited to welcome Goldilocks Bake Shop who will be on hand with gingerbread houses and other delicious treats.
We invite you to join us for this year’s market being held Saturday, November 30th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday, December 1st from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The market will be held in the Harbour Master Clubhouse located at 2010 East Kent Avenue S. at the foot of Victoria Drive. We do not charge admission but instead host a raffle to raise funds for our favourite charities which have included BC SPCA, SAINTS (Senior Animals In Need Today Society) Rescue and BC Wildlife Rescue. To help raise funds for charity, we also host a Donation Café which serves hot chocolate, coffee, tea and sweet treats. To assist in our fundraising efforts, we are ever grateful for the support of Everything Wine River District. They have been on board for many years supporting this community event and donate a beautiful gift basket to raffle off.
Did you know Inside Vancouver dubbed the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market a Hidden Gem? “If you want to avoid the crowds of some holiday events, consider South Vancouver’s charming Tugboat Landing Artisan Market with its 20 or so vendors and familyfriendly Christmas vibe.” Be sure to check out one of the “best little markets in the City” this year. We hope you’ll stop by and support local this holiday season.
DID SOMEBODY SAY CHUCK-IT?!
PHOTO
Pet of the Month
WRITTEN BY JOANNA & TONY
Meet Ollie, our 3-year-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi, often referred to as Schmollie! We consider him to be a wedding gift to ourselves as we welcomed him home a few weeks after we got married. Fun fact, it was -31°C the day we picked him up as an 8-week-old pup in Fort St. John, BC. It’s probably why Ollie loves the snow so much whenever we get some downfall in Vancouver!
Ollie’s become a big part of our little family and he’s made our home feel complete since day 1. Some might say that Ollie even helped prepare us for parenthood for our daughter! If you’ve seen Ollie in our neighbourhood, you probably already know he loves to say hello to anyone willing to give him attention and he’d never turn down a good belly rub. His ears perk up whenever he hears ‘corgi’ as we walk by admirers. He’s always been so amicable with kids around River District, and we love being able to witness the joy he brings to families in the neighbourhood. As a very social and friendly pup, we knew Ollie would excel working as a Pets and Friends therapy dog. It was the perfect opportunity for Ollie to love and be loved!
Ollie’s absolute favourite thing in the world is mahm but a close second would be fetch with his Chuck-it ball. He has, to our knowledge, never turned down a good fetch session! The highlight of his week is meeting up with his neighbourhood furrriends for their Saturday walkies to Starbucks for a good ol’ pup cup.
It’s been a significant year of change for Ollie as we welcomed baby sister into our family. He’s grown up to be the goodest boi and learned to love her, despite the toddler shenanigans she puts him through. We couldn’t be prouder of him! It wasn’t always easy with the sleepless nights, baby cries, unpredictable walking schedule, less 1:1 play time and cuddles, baby sister’s grabby hands and flailing arms in his personal space, but through it all, he’s been resilient and remained loyal. It warms our hearts to see how his relationship with baby sister continues to grow and evolve!
If you ever see us walking around the neighbourhood, feel free say hello and maybe give Ollie a scritch or two cause our sweet boi Ollie is always ready to brighten someone else’s day!
PHOTO BY RICK LIN
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