GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT
PETS & PLANTS
ARTISTS & MAKERS FOOD & FINANCE
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
Ciele Beau
Jose Sierra
Gabriel Martins
Marina Bochar
Alison Columbus
Janice Voth
@hongphotography
Lise Boullard
Alain Boullard
Tracy Rogal
Cover Art
GARDENWORKS
Annah van Eeghen
Robin Nuber
Ranpreet Brar
Yousra Sentel
Ouss Sentel
Oriana Galindo Parparcén
Johnny Hoang
Katherine Hall
Mural by Ciele Beau
CIELE BEAU
Multi-disciplinary Visual Artist "WAKE UP"
ALISON COLUMBUS & JANICE VOTH
PredatorBWear
YOUSRA & OUSS SENTEL Sentel Beauty
ANNAH VAN EEGHEN & ROBIN NUBER Catoro Cat Cafe
Contributing Writers
Ciele Beau
Marina Bochar
Alison Columbus
Janice Voth
Lise Boullard
Tracy Rogal
Oriana Galindo Parparcén
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director
Katherine Hall
Features
ORIANA GALINDO PARPARCÉN
A Holistic Approach to Food & Life
JOHNNY HOANG, PFP® Mortgage Broker
Leanne Johnson
Annah van Eeghen
Ranpreet Brar
Yousra Sentel
Ouss Sentel
Johnny Hoang
Katherine Hall
Advertising Sales
Katherine Hall
RANPREET BRAR
Sweet Pea Designs Co.
MARINA BOCHAR
Proud Pawrent of Juniper & Lilah
TRACY ROGAL Oopsie Daisy Ceramics
LISE BOULLARD LEANNE JOHNSON JoiebyLise Urban Farming with GARDENWORKS
Dear Neighbours
As the seasons shift and the days grow longer, we’re excited to welcome Spring in the River District! From this issue forward, we are moving to a bi-monthly publication schedule with even more beautiful, fun, and interesting content in every issue of River District Living magazine.
In our March-April issue, we explore urban gardening and how to find amazing food at local BC farms. We highlight one of our amazing River District mural artists, several small businesses in our community, and of course our feature pets! We also learn more about the magical Cat Forest at Catoro Cat Cafe, and explore options on how to keep small dogs safer outdoors.
We hope this issue inspires you to explore, engage, and discover something new in River District & nearby. Thank you for being part of this journey with us this Spring and beyond!
Sincerely,
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
KatherineHall
Love for River District
I love the River District When I was painting my mural back in 2020 everyone was so friendly, and welcoming I often visit for a walk along the river, and to look at all the murals. I think the art-focused boardwalk is a really unique feature of the neighbourhood!
- Ciele , multi-disciplinary Visual Artist & Muralist
I love being able to wake up in the morning, make a cup of coffee and go for a stroll along the river Listening to the birds chirping as a tugboat chugs along the Fraser is so relaxing, and it’s exciting to spot wildlife including herons, river otters and bald eagles. It’s a great way to decompress after an afternoon of painting and it’s often where I get my best ideas.
- Lise , JoiebyLise
GARDENWORKS loves River District's dedication to sustainability and community integration! The focus on green spaces, support for local businesses, and commitment to environmental stewardship make us the perfect pair. River District embodies a vibrant and environmentally aware community that deeply connects with GARDENWORKS, and being just minutes away, we look forward to growing together through the seasons!
- Olivia & Kaileyne , GARDENWORKS
What makes the River District so special? As a part of the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market for the past few years, you get a real feel of the strong sense of community, the people are so friendly and there is an amazing energy that fills the air It's such a beautiful place to take your furry friend for a walk, it’s like a cute little oasis by the river Whether you’re attending the community events, sitting at a cafe with a coffee relaxing or shopping for something special....there’s something for everyone.
- Tracy , Oopsie Daisy Ceramics
We have been enjoying our time here at the River District. Since day one, we have felt loved and welcomed by our neighbourhood The views are just breathtaking, and the community is out of this world It won't be easy to leave (if we ever do), because we feel we have everything we need right here The location is perfect, we are 20 minutes from everything, and the neighbourhood is family oriented and supportive, and the parks and views are perfect for our family.
- Oriana , Ava Luna’s Creations
Since moving to River District in December 2023, I’ve really come to love this growing community There are plenty of walking trails, green spaces, and a lively Town Centre with great local shops and more on the way It’s a great spot for young families, professionals, and even retirees looking to downsize. Plus, Bella, our 7-year-old Cavapoo, loves how dog-friendly the area is!
- Johnny , Mortgage Broker
River District is a vibrant waterfront community that perfectly blends urban convenience with nature. I love its scenic walking trails, breathtaking Fraser River views, and the peaceful atmosphere. The neighbourhood offers a great mix of shops, restaurants, and green spaces, making it an ideal place to relax, stay active, and enjoy a strong sense of community
- Yousra & Ouss , Sentel Beauty
I enjoy the blend of nature and community This charming neighbourhood offers proximity to beautiful trails for outdoor adventures The convenience of nearby amenities ensures that everything I need is just a stone's throw away, while the friendly neighbours create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I truly appreciate the strong sense of community here, where everyone looks out for one another.
- Marina , Proud Pawrent of Juniper & Lilah
During Christmas 2024, I had the privilege of attending the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market in the River District for the very first time, and I was completely enchanted by everything the area had to offer The River District isn’t just a place it’s an experience As a newcomer, I immediately felt welcomed and embraced by everyone around me The people in the River District exude a warmth and hospitality that is rare to find.
- Ranpreet , Sweet Pea Designs
Mural Artist Spotlight:
Ciele Beau
ARTIST BIO
My name is Ciele Beau, and I am a multidisciplinary visual artist, based out of Vancouver, Canada (the unceded lands of the Squamish, Musqeum, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations). I graduated with a BFA, Major in Visual Arts, from the University of Victoria, and received my 2D Design Certificate from Emily Carr University of Art and Design. My practice includes painting, illustration, murals and design I use bright bold hues and playful imagery as part of my visual language Some pillars of my work include community, the human experience, and sometimes a cheeky social commentary (where appropriate) Community engagement, and a focus on the impact that artwork has on the communities it’s installed in or showcased to is very important to my practice and my approach to public works, and client projects.
I am a full-time freelance creative, and have worked with companies such as Pabst Blue Ribbon, Warner Brothers (CW’s Riverdale), Simons, Slack, Adobe, Topo Chico Hard Seltzer, City of Vancouver, City of Richmond, Vancouver Opera, Vancouver Mural Festival, Vancouver Pride, Georgia Straight, Sarah McLachlan School of Music, Park Production House, Wesgroup Properties, PCI Developments, various BIA's and more. Fun Fact: I have synesthesia, which is a neurological condition where the brain misfires sensory information! There are a lot of different ways that synesthesia can present but for me when I hear music - I see colour! I use this experience to inform my fine art painting practice where I paint songs in the colours that I see when I hear them It’s an abstract concept in writing, but it’s a huge part of the work I do outside of murals and illustration
PHOTOS BY JOSE SIERRA
“WAKE UP” by Ciele Beau
MURAL STATEMENT
I love playing with colour, and creating work that is bright and poppy. Something that livens up a space, a room, a wall. And I was so excited to be able to do that for the River District. In 2020 I was selected to be a part of the Vancouver Mural Festival as one of the first rounds of artists painting for the boardwalk. At the time I didn’t realize they would be building on that every year and it was so cool to see how the murals growing and growing along the river path.
The mural I created is called ‘WAKE UP!’ easily recognizable by the words ‘WAKE plastered across it, along with a visual of a wo getting splashed in the face by cups of coffee meaning of this mural is two fold On the sur it is a playful take on how difficult it can b wake up first thing in the morning A vis caffeine explosion right in the face of the sl figure “But First Coffee” type energy Undern that, there are larger themes at play. Context this mural was created in August of 2020, there were a lot of things happening in the w We were in the middle of a pandemic, there w protests, and earlier that summer we felt ripples from the death of George Floyd across continent. There was a lot of social unrest. M of which still exists today. And it felt lik collective wake up call. It felt like we could longer ignore the things that were right in front of us. And that was very front of mind when I created the design for ‘Wake Up’. Something light for the passerby, something deeper for the slow ponderer
On the surface it is a playful take on how difficult it can be to wake up first thing in the morning. A visceral caffeine explosion right in the face of the sleepy figure. “But First Coffee” type energy. Underneath that, there are larger themes at play.
PHOTO BY GABRIEL MARTINS
WORDS, IMAGES & CLOTHING BY
RANPREET BRAR
I’m Ranpreet, the heart and hands behind Sweet Pea Designs Co. This brand was born out of my lifelong passion for fashion, design, and sustainability. With a BSC in Fashion Design, my career began in the adult fashion industry, where I spent years immersed in textiles, patterns, and creative challenges But everything shifted when I became a mother I made the choice to step back from my professional career and dedicate my energy to raising my daughters, pouring my focus into family and home life.
Though my career took a pause, my love for design never did. In fact, it grew in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I found myself designing and sewing dresses for my girls, creating special pieces for family and friends, and experimenting with fabrics and styles right in my own home. There was something incredibly fulfilling about making something meaningful for my daughters, and it ignited a deep desire to take this beyond my personal circle
After over a decade of this creative journey, I knew it was time to share my designs with the world. And that’s how Sweet Pea Designs was born a brand focused on creating unique, handmade clothing for children. But this wasn’t just about fashion for me; it was about a new way of thinking about what we wear.
Sustainability has always been at the core of what I do I’ve never been a fan of fast fashion I wanted to create clothing that wasn’t just beautiful but also lasting pieces that could be cherished, handed down, and loved through the years. The timeless designs at Sweet Pea reflect this ethos. Every garment is made with care, using highquality materials meant to withstand the test of time. I believe in clothes that transcend fleeting trends and become a lasting part of the family story.
I’ve never been a fan of fast fashion. I wanted to create clothing that wasn’t just beautiful but also lasting — pieces that could be cherished, handed down, and loved through the years.
For me, Sweet Pea Designs is about more than just clothes. It’s about a more intentional, thoughtful way of dressing. My designs blend tradition with modern sensibility, and my journey from a mother crafting for her daughters to a designer creating meaningful fashion is woven into every piece. Sweet Pea Designs is more than a business; it’s a reflection of my passion, and it continues to inspire me as it grows
During Christmas 2024, I had the privilege of attending the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market in the River District for the very first time, and I was completely enchanted by everything the area had to offer. The River District isn’t just a place it’s an experience.
As a newcomer, I immediately felt welcomed and embraced by everyone around me The people in the River District exude a warmth and hospitality that is rare to find It’s not just about being a part of the market or attending an event; it’s about being part of a family. There’s a deep-rooted sense of belonging that ties everyone together from the local business owners to the shoppers, and everyone in between. It felt like I wasn’t just an outsider attending an event, but someone who was being invited into a tight-knit community that genuinely cares about its members.
The level of encouragement and support I received was overwhelming in the most wonderful way. It wasn’t just friendly smiles and polite gestures it was a constant outpouring of love, inspiration, and mutual respect People were so eager to share their stories, offer advice, and celebrate each other's work There was no sense of competition, only collaboration and genuine connection I was genuinely moved by the kindness and positivity that surrounded me, and it made my experience not just memorable, but deeply meaningful.
It was clear to me that the River District is built on more than just commerce it’s built on the idea of community, collaboration, and support. Each person I met seemed to believe in uplifting each other, and there was a collective desire to see everyone succeed. Whether it was a fellow vendor sharing tips or a local resident stopping by just to say hello, there was a true sense of togetherness in the air I could feel the passion that each person had for not only their craft or business but also for the community itself
My time in the River District was more than just a market visit; it was a moment of connection, inspiration, and joy. It made me feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a vibrant and loving community, even if just for a brief moment. I left the River District with a heart full of gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. The experience has stayed with me, and I look forward to returning to this beautiful place, knowing that it’s a community that will always welcome me with open arms.
Get in touch:
Website: sweetpeadesignsco ca Instagram: @sweet.pea.designs.co
Email: sweetpeadesignsco@yahoo.com
Ph: 780 803 4444
More Than Just a Mortgage Brok
Buying your first home can be both exciting and intimidating. Between navigating financial jargon, understanding mortgage rates, and handling endless paperwork, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why having someone like Johnny Hoang in your corner can make all the difference.
Johnny isn’t just another mortgage broker he’s trusted advisor who genuinely cares about helping people achieve their dream of homeownership Licensed in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, Johnny has helped countless clients across multiple provinces find mortgage solutions tailored to their unique financial situations But what truly sets him apart isn’t just his expertise it’s his dedication, personal touch, and the exceptional team he’s built around him
ADedicatedTeamThatWorksforYou
MoreThanJustNumbers:WhoisJohnnyHoang?
For Johnny, mortgage brokering isn’t just about securing the best rates it’s about understanding the people behind the numbers. His passion for real estate finance is rooted in his desire to help clients feel empowered and educated throughout the mortgage process. Johnny takes pride in simplifying what can often be an overwhelming experience for first-time buyers, walking them through every stage with patience, clarity, and genuine care.
Johnny’s approach is personal. He takes the time to understand each client’s needs, financial goals, and long-term plans. Whether you’re buying your first condo, upgrading to a family home, or exploring refinancing options, Johnny works tirelessly to ensure you’re confident in every decision you make
One of the key reasons Johnny stands out from other brokers is his dedicated support team, designed to make the mortgage process faster, smoother, and more efficient
• In-House Adjudicator: Speed matters in real estate, and Johnny’s adjudicator works behind the scenes to assess and process applications quickly This ensures that clients don’t face unnecessary delays and increases their chances of securing the best rates before the market shifts
• Fulfillment Specialist: Managing paperwork can be overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers Johnny’s fulfillment specialist handles all the necessary documentation, ensuring everything is accurate and submitted on time This attention to detail means fewer mistakes, faster approvals, and a stress-free experience for clients
Together, Johnny and his team work as a cohesive unit to provide unparalleled service that goes beyond the typical mortgage broker experience
Secure,Efficient,andPersonalizedService
Johnny understands that sharing sensitive financial information can feel uncomfortable That’s why he’s integrated secure technology into his process, including a protected client portal for uploading important documents This ensures that all personal and financial information remains confidential and safe
What’s more, Johnny uses automation tools to speed up the mortgage approval process so clients spend less time waiting and more time preparing for their new home.
TailoredSolutionsforEveryBuyer
Not everyone has a perfect credit score or a traditional job. Johnny specializes in providing alternative lending solutions for clients who might not qualify through conventional banks. Whether you’re self-employed, have irregular income, or need flexible lending terms, Johnny’s vast network of lenders allows him to find competitive rates that suit your specific needs.
What truly sets Johnny apart from other mor professionals is his genuine care for his clients. known for being approachable, patient, and a willing to explain even the most complicated mor terms in a way that’s easy to understand. His c often praise his integrity, honesty, and commitme ensuring they feel supported every step of the way ATrustedPartnerforYourHomeownershipJourn
StartYourHomeownershipJourneywithConfidence
If you’re a first-time homebuyer looking for expert guidance, personalized service, and a team that truly cares about your success, look no further than Johnny Hoang With his industry knowledge, dedicated support team, and client-first approach, you’ll have everything you need to navigate the mortgage process with ease
Visit johnnyhoang.ca or call (778) 838-1316 to get started today. Your dream home is closer than you think with Johnny by your side, you’ll get there faster and with complete peace of mind.
“As a first-time homebuyer, I was overwhelmed by the process. Johnny didn’t just help me get a mortgage—he taught me about my options, answered every question I had, and made sure I felt comfortable with every decision. His team made the process smooth and stress-free.”
Johnny Hoang, PFP®
Mortgage Broker
M: 1-778-838-1316
E: johnny@johnnyhoang.ca www.johnnyhoang.ca
Instagram: @johnnyhoangmortgages
Facebook: Johnny Hoang - Mortgage Broker
LinkedIn: Johnny Hoang, PFP®
This Spring, Become a River District “Urban Farmer”!
WRITTEN BY LEANNE
JOHNSON
PHOTOS BY GARDENWORKS
GARDENWORKS Mandeville – just blocks away from the River District – is your locally owned and operated garden centre Our experts are excited to be your garden coach this spring
No garden? No problem! There are delicious crops you can grow in containers right on your patio or balcony Start planting now for a summer filled with a bounty of fresh vegetables, fruit, and culinary herbs.
Why not try starting from seed now, or plant seedlings later in April? Either way, your choices are endless for nutrient-rich, gourmet varieties, all while fostering a sense of pride with “I grew this myself!”
Some of our favourites… Lettuce & leafy greens –easy to grow all season long – shallow roots, so these grow great in any patio planter.
Love to add flavour to your cooking? Give planting fresh herbs a go. You can’t beat fresh rosemary, thyme, chives, mint, or oregano! Want to plant basil? Wait until the heat arrives, mid to late May just the right time to plant your tomatoes as well!
Impress your family and friends by growing super unique veggies from seed. How about a “watermelon radish”? The Rido Red radish is white on the outside with a bright fuchsia center. Gorgeous AND delicious! So many options!
TIP: Plant a new batch of seeds (or seedlings) in 2-3 week intervals, so you have a steady stream of fresh, nutritious, and fun vegetables to harvest.
A few other edibles that are super successful when grown in containers on your patio include columnar or dwarf fruit trees Love blueberries? Blueberries grow well in bigger pots just remember to plant at least 2 different varieties for cross-pollination and a bountiful berry harvest!
Oh, and don’t forget to plant carrots maybe potatoes too! They’re easy and fun to grow!
New to veggie gardening? Our passionate and knowledgeable team would love to share information, tips, and advice to coach and cheer you on to ‘grow your own groceries’ this spring!
Visit us today to get GROWING!
We offer lots of FREE seminars and fun workshops throughout the year! Stay in the know by following GARDENWORKS through the links below:
denworkscanada ENWORKS ardenworks.ca 4111
Drive, Burnaby, B.C., V5J 3G6 drive from River District!)
Customer Appreciation Day: Every 3rd Thursday of each month!
WORDS & PHOTOS BY TRACY ROGAL
Let me introduce myself - I'm Tracy Rogal, the creative force behind Oopsie Daisy Ceramics. Although I stumbled upon ceramics later in life, once I did, I was completely hooked! There's something truly magical about transforming dirt from the earth into a stunning piece of art using imagination, heat, chemistry and time.
My ceramics journey began with hand building - messy, yet incredibly enjoyable. It wasn't long before I ventured into the world of slip casting I can still vividly recall the day I stumbled upon my first vintage mold - a super cute scrubby frog It brought back memories of my grandmother and I instantly knew I had to learn about slip casting to bring that froggy back to life And so, my obsession with slip casting began
Right from the start, my work has been bursting with whimsy and vibrant colours, reflecting my love for all things bright and cheerful I just love the process of creating and if my pieces can bring joy to someone, then that's an added bonus!
In my small studio, I carefully craft each ceramic piece by hand, using what I’ve learned about slip casting, vintage molds, hand building, glazes and... patience. (I’m still working on the patience part....let’s just say I’ve peeked in my kiln before I should have on more than one occasion! LOL)
I believe in taking my time with each creation, as the process cannot be rushed (I’ve learned the hard way!) One of the most thrilling moments in the creative process is when I add the eyes to my pieces Suddenly, the personalities I've been envisioning come to life, and I can't help but grin in anticipation of the finished product emerging from the kiln
There's a unique kind of happiness that comes from holding something you've created with your own two hands from start to finish And that, my friends, is the magic I find in ceramics!
My ultimate goal is to spread happiness through my work by crafting pieces that bring a smile to people's faces and evoke fond memories That's why I offer my creations in various forms - finished, unfinished, and even customized! Many customers have asked if they could purchase my pieces in bisque form so they could paint or glaze them themselves. I thought this was a fantastic idea to spread even more joy, so I started offering my pieces in bisque for those who want "ready to paint" pieces. Sometimes, customers reach out to me with requests for customized pieces. I am thrilled to accommodate these requests and modify pieces to fit my customers' vision as best as I can. It brings me so much joy to see my creations bring happiness to others in unique and personalized ways!
There's a unique kind of happiness that comes from holding something you've created with your own two hands from start to finish. And that, my friends, is the magic I find in ceramics!
Oopsie Daisy Ceramics is a delightful mix of whimsical, quirky, and unique handmade decorative pieces. From slip casting to hand building, pattern mixing to speckled glaze, my creations reflect my passion for learning, exploration, joy, art, and creativity.
You can purchase my ceramic pieces from my Etsy store, www oopsiedaisyceramics etsy com, or if you happen to be on Galiano Island, make sure to stop by the Oxeye Bakery to check out my work in personand don't forget to try their delicious donuts while you're there! You can also find me at select markets throughout the year
Stay connected with me on Instagram @oopsiedaisyceramicstr for sneak peeks of my latest creations, behind-the-scenes looks, upcoming events and other pottery-related inspiration. Let's create some joy together!
& Stay Connected:
Every small dog deserves protection and every pet owner deserves peace of mind.
PHOTO BY @HONGPHOTOGRAPHY
Keeping Dogs Safer Outdoors
BY ALISON COLUMBUS & JANICE VOTH
Protecting Our Canine Companions: The Story Behind PredatorBWear
What started as a simple question between two veterinary professionals has grown into a mission to protect the smallest and most vulnerable members of the canine community. "Hey Janice! What do you think about creating something that helps protect these little dogs?" That was the spark that ignited PredatorBWear, a company born from a shared passion for animal welfare and a commitment to innovation.
Founded in 2020 by Janice and Alison, PredatorBWear is the result of over 35 years of combined experience working in veterinary hospitals. Having seen countless small dogs come in with injuries from attacks by larger dogs, coyotes, and even birds of prey, the duo knew they needed to act. Their solution? The spiked Predator Protection Harness a product designed to keep small dogs safe from harm, whether they're in their backyard, on a neighbourhood walk, or exploring the woods.
Why Small Dogs Need Special Protection
Unlike their larger counterparts, small dogs face unique challenges. They are more likely to be bullied or attacked due to their size and vulnerability. The team at PredatorBWear understands these risks firsthand.
“We’ve seen so many cases in our clinics that could have been prevented,” says Alison. “Vet bills can add up quickly, and the emotional toll on pet owners is immense. We wanted to give pet parents peace of mind, knowing their furry friends are protected.”
The flagship spiked harness is not just for walks or bathroom breaks. It’s particularly beneficial for dogs who hike in wooded areas, are recovering from surgery, are blind or deaf, or are otherwise more vulnerable to attacks. The harness provides a muchneeded layer of protection, ensuring that dogs can enjoy their lives without unnecessary risks.
Expanding the Mission: Safety at Night
Building on the success of their original product, PredatorBWear has recently expanded its offerings to include an LED harness. Designed for visibility during those gloomy days and dark nights, the glowin-the-dark LED lighting system ensures that both pets and their owners are easily seen while out walking.
“Being visible can be a lifesaver,” says Janice. “It’s one of the simplest ways to prevent accidents and keep both pets and people safe.”
Driven by Passion, Fueled by Experience
PredatorBWear’s journey is rooted in a deep passion for excellence and an unwavering commitment to pet safety. Every product is thoughtfully designed with both functionality and comfort in mind, ensuring that every customer has a rewarding experience.
The team believes that every small dog deserves protection and every pet owner deserves peace of mind. With their innovative products and compassionate mission, PredatorBWear is making a difference one harness at a time.
Join the Movement
Whether you’re a pet parent concerned about safety or simply someone who loves innovative pet products, PredatorBWear invites you to join their mission. Protecting our favourite canines has never been easier or more important.
For more information, visit PredatorBWear.com or follow @PredatorBWear on social media for updates, tips, and inspiring stories.
Get in Touch
Website: PredatorBWear com
Instagram: @PredatorBWear
Facebook: @PredatorBWear
Email: PredatorBWear@gmail com
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WRITTEN
PHOTOS
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ANNAH VAN EEGHEN
ANNAH VAN EEGHEN & ROBIN NUBER
Tucked away in East Vancouver is a bright green building with cats sitting in the windows. If you pass by on the street, you see posters in the window advertising the week’s nice and naughty cats. This is Catoro Cat Cafe: a unique community space that promotes animal welfare while also offering a peaceful, relaxing space to escape the hustle of city life.
Catoro Cafe was founded with the goal of reducing the feline overpopulation crisis in Canada by providing a comfortable, safe space for rescue cats to live while awaiting adoption. Since opening in 2019, Catoro has seen over 1500 cats get adopted. Visitors can book time in the Cat Forest a calm, cozy nature-themed lounge where they can relax and interact with 15-20 cats. Studies have shown that spending time with animals reduces stress and anxiety, and many visitors leave feeling lighter, whether or not they take home a new furry friend.
At its core, Catoro is dedicated to finding loving forever homes for rescue cats. Every resident of the cafe has their own story: these cats have been saved from neglect, abuse and dangerous environments. Many of the cats were rescued as strays or from hoarding environments where they were forced to live with dozens of other cats in neglectful conditions. Some of the cats arrive sick, scared and skinny. But the good news is that every cat who comes through the doors of Catoro has finally found a safe, warm home where they can be cherished and spoiled.
Catoro prioritizes finding homes for hard-to-adopt or special needs cats and promoting education around responsible cat ownership. Many of the cats at Catoro would face euthanasia in a traditional shelter environment, either due to behavioural issues or medical problems. Catoro has found homes for cats with three legs, blind cats, cats who are FIV+, and diabetic cats. They also help their rescue partners fundraise for complex medical cases and care for sick cats until they are stable and ready to be adopted.
Catoro provides a low-stress, interactive and enriching space that allows each cat’s personality to shine—helping adopters make meaningful connections.
Catoro is not just a fun place to hang out for an hour - it’s also a space for the socialisation of shy or semiferal cats. By exposing them to positive human interactions in a stable environment, traumatized cats can regain their trust of humans. This makes it much easier for them to find loving forever homes. Unlike traditional shelters, where animals can feel overwhelmed or isolated, Catoro provides a lowstress, interactive and enriching space that allows each cat’s personality to shine helping adopters make meaningful connections.
Catoro also hosts special events each week, including yoga and barre exercise classes where you can get a work out done with the help of their cats. You can also join them for movie nights on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Catoro screens an eclectic selection of films that can be enjoyed while sipping bubble tea with the cats.
But Catoro is about more than just the cats themselves it’s also about fostering an empathetic, supportive community. Through educational endeavors, mental health advocacy, and partnerships with local rescues, the café raises awareness about animal welfare and the therapeutic benefits of time spent with animals. It’s a space where animal lovers can gather, share stories, and support a greater cause while indulging in a delicious bubble tea. Admission to Catoro’s Cat Forest is $18 per person and advance bookings are strongly recommended. Learn more at catoropets.com
Catoro Cat Cafe 666 East Broadway Vancouver, BC V5T 1X6 604 423 2987 info@catoropets com catoropets com
Instagram: @catoropets
Tiktok: @Catorocafe Facebook: Catoro Pets
French Flair
AN INTERVIEW WITH ARTIST LISE BOULLARD
Long-time lifestyle journalist and River District resident Lise Boullard is bringing joie de vivre to the neighbourhood and beyond with her new candle and card brand, JoiebyLise We sat down with her to hear where she gets the inspiration for her products and how she hopes to honour Canada’s diverse cultures, one customer at a time
After working as a sustainability, lifestyle and travel journalist for 15 years, with publications including Reader’s Digest and The Vancouver Sun, it’s really cool to see you exploring the visual arts. It’s not a transition I see often in our industry; how did that come about?
Well my parents are both artists they actually met in the ‘70s at the art school we now know as Emily Carr and for years people would ask me whether I was a painter like my parents I would always reply “no, I’m a writer ” But in January 2020, I got the urge to feel a paint brush gliding along a piece of textured watercolour paper, as I had done a few times as a child My dad, Paris-born artist Alain Boullard, invited me over to his place in the West End for a one-on-one watercolour tutorial That opened the floodgates for a passion that has led to over 100 hand-painted greeting card designs and many hand-poured soy wax candles
Your products are so beautiful. And I noticed that your candles have names like Weekend à Paris and Citron Pressé. Can you tell me about that?
I was really lucky to grow up spending summers visiting my dad’s side of the family in France We’d wake up and have bowls of café au lait for breakfast, enjoy warm, flaky pain au chocolats in the ft d i l d t l it é
OIL PAINTING OF LISE BOULLARD BY HER FATHER, PARIS-BORN VANCOUVER-BASED ARTIST ALAIN BOULLARD
That’s lovely. It sounds like you put a lot of thought into developing the candles.
I’ve always dreamed of living in France and creating these candles and cards is a way of bringing a bit of France to us here! I think we’ve reached an unsustainable level of busy-ness and burnout here in North America. My intention with the business is to inspire people to take a moment out of their busy lives and begin to incorporate some of the joie de vivre the French are famous for, into their day-today.
Your greeting cards are beautiful as well. And I see that some of them are available in different languages.
Yes! I think it’s such a shame that we have such a rich multicultural fabric here in Canada, but when you go to the greeting card aisle in a pharmacy you only see cards in English and maybe French. I want to make cards with text available in Mandarin, Tagalog, and other languages widely spoken in Canada to celebrate and honour the many cultures we have here. All of the designs on the cards are hand-painted by me, then scanned and printed on premium paper. They come ready to gift with an envelope too.
So cool. So where can someone reading this find your products?
My cards, candles and shea butter soaps are available at a few boutiques around the city including The Storehouse on Main Street and Craft Maison on Commercial Drive. Customers can also order on my website www.joiebylise.com, via DM on my Instagram at JoiebyLise or send an email to joiebylise@gmail.com. I’m also a vendor at markets around the city from time to time, and offer candles with custom labels for weddings, events and as corporate gifts.
That’s wonderful. And we can’t wait to see where JoiebyLise goes in the coming months and years.
Instagram: @joiebylise
Facebook: JoiebyLise
Pinterest: Joie By Lise joiebylise@gmail com
Meet Juniper & Lilah
the sweet & sassy sisters
WORDS & PHOTOS BY
MARINA BOCHAR
Sniffari Time!
Juniper is a spirite Thailand Known for the neighbourhood w eagerly greeting her dramatic, Juniper of Bosley’s and Everythi sass and spunk shine making her a beloved
Juniper
Lilah
Awooo friends!
On the other hand, we have Lilah, the gentle and incredibly sweet 2-year-old rescue from Turkey With a playful and adventurous spirit, she loves to explore the River District trails, embarking on daily sniffaries that are filled with exciting discoveries Lilah's kind nature complements her sister's vivacity, creating a perfect balance in their dynamic duo
Together, Juniper and Lilah bring joy, adventure, and a touch of sass to their neighbourhood, making every day a little brighter for those around them Follow Juniper & Lilah:
Together, Juniper and Lilah bring joy, adventure, and a touch of sass to their neighbourhood, making every day a little brighter for those around them.
A Holistic Approach to Food & Life
WORDS & PHOTOS BY
ORIANA GALINDO PARPARCÉN
Local River District neighbour Oriana talks about her passion for supporting small, family-owned local businesses to feed her family, and making food and home goods from scratch.
Hello neighbours! I’ve been living in the River District since 2018, and we are loving it
My name is Oriana and I'm a shapeshifter Its hard to say what I do, even though I have a degree in Dentistry and Dental Hygiene, and that’s not only what pays the bills, but it is also what I feel passionate about there is just a twist, I’m into the holistic approach
I am also a soap maker (my Instagram is @ava lunas creations), a sourdough baker (yes, my starter’s name is Lola), and a knitter (soon I'll be digging into embroidery as well) I feel extremely passionate about supporting small, family-owned local businesses, and making good food from scratch
I created the Instagram account @support localBC, where I share all my hippie content, plus all the places I go to get milk, eggs, veggies, meats and even raw milk (which I know can be controversial, but it is the best milk to make cheese)
The reason why I think I started this "hippie" process is because it took us quite a few years to conceive our first daughter, and I became more aware of ingredients and what’s going into my body I started reading labels in more detail and that’s when I decided to make soaps, not only with the most natural ingredients but also to make a positive impact on people's lives
I go to Chilliwack, Ladner, Abbotsford, Langley, and of course locally, to find my groceries.
I find that people have disconnected too much from food and don't appreciate the work of our farmers as much as we should. That’s why I like going straight to the farm to teach my daughters where their food is coming from. Although now my daughter thinks that milk comes from a machine, because we go to a dairy farm where we fill our milk jug directly from their machine. The milk doesn’t have any additives, its non homogenized and you get that nice cream on top.
I find that people have disconnected too much from food and don't appreciate the work of our farmers as much as we should. That’s why I like going straight to the farm to teach my daughters where their food is coming from.
I can go on and on about the farms and places I go and the people I've met throughout this process, including Katherine, who I know we all know and appreciate But I feel I could write a book about it
I forgot to mention that I also help my mom with her balloon decor company called @coco balloonsyvr. She has been living with us at the River District, and it has been a hidden talent of hers, because she is a nutritionist... I guess that’s why I am the way I am.
I definitely have more appreciation for people that work in marketing and do videos on TikTok, it is not an easy thing to do.
We have been enjoying our time here at the River District. Since day one, we have felt loved and welcomed by our neighbourhood. The views are just breathtaking, and the community is out of this world.
It won't be easy to leave (if we ever do), because we feel we have everything we need right here. The location is perfect, we are 20 minutes from everything, and the neighbourhood is family oriented and supportive, and the parks and views are perfect for our family.
If you got to read all this, thank you, and maybe let's be friends, it seems like we have things in common!
And if you want any more information (or if you have any suggestions), I am all ears.
See you around our beautiful walking path.
Thank you for reading!
Follow along:
@support localBC
@ava lunas creations
@coco balloonsyvr
dark chocolate andraspberrysourdough
@coco _balloonsyvr
Oriana’s Top 7 Farms
Here are Oriana’s favourite family-owned, farms where she shops in an effort to support small local business and source the highest quality food and ingredients for her family. She recommends checking these places out not only to shop, but also to learn more about where our food comes from and what it takes for farmers to produce excellent quality products.
May Blooms Acreage
Instagram: @may blooms acreage
Website: maybloomsacreage.com Chilliwack, BC
fresh eggs (Feb-Oct)
Instagram: @creeksidechee
Website: creeksidecreamery Agassiz, BC
Creekside Cheese + fresh milk, award winning
Central Park Farms
Instagram:@centralparkfarms
Website:centralparkfarms.com Langley,BC
free range, non-GMO fed chicken, pasture raised pork, eggs, grass fed / grass finished Black Angus beef
Cropthorne Farm Stand
Instagram:@cropthornefarmstand
Website:cropthornefarm.com thamIsland,BC/Farmer’sMarkets(Vancouver)
ied Organic family farm growing a diversity h-quality vegetables
Goat’
Smits & Co.w Farm Cheese
Facebook:Smits&Co.wFarmCheese
Website:smitsandcow.wixsite.com/handmade Chilliwack,BC
handmade farmstead Gouda style cheese
s Pride Dairy
Instagram:@goatspridedairy
Website:goatspride.com
Abbotsford,BC
goat’ s milk, cheese, & yogurt & duck eggs
The Meat Shoppe
Instagram:@themeatshoppe.ca
Website:themeatshoppe.ca
Abbotsford&PittMeadows
family raised pork, beef, chicken, & eggs
Connect the dots. What is it?
Spot the differences in the pictures. How many did you find?
BONUS: Find all the hidden eggs. How many did you find?
Colour the egg. Then decorate the blank eggs with your own creative designs!
Draw some flowers on the stems to create a beautiful garden.
To advertise here please contact: riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com (some exclusions apply)
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