Vancouver's Profiles of Excellence 2022

VANCOUVER’S profiles of

EXCELLENCE

2022 EDITION

“

“

What do we live for if not to make life less difficult for each other?

GEORGE ELIOT

A

s we continue to move through this time of pandemic recovery and adapt to new ways of living and being, changes with regards to new processes and perspectives also apply to the world of business.

These featured profiles of business excellence cover innovative individuals and organizations in businesses across all industries from an investment firm celebrating 100 years in operation to a new pioneer in the growing natural health space.

What the business leaders at the head of these companies all share in common is a tremendous amount of respect for their teams. They credit their employees and team members as the reason for their industry gains and successes over the years, and especially in these past years of challenges, uncertainty, and

transformation.

Through a collective effort made possible through dedicated teamwork, these businesses continue to put the needs of the people they serve come first.

W hether by prov iding excel lent customer service and client relations, placing health and safet y at the forefront of company policies, or making a positive impact on their local communities through community giving initiatives, they are committed to doing whatever is needed to support those people in need of a helping hand or listening ear.

For these businesses, upholding a reputation of taking care of others is the ultimate measure of business success. • ELIZABETH ROSALYN THE EDITOR

PUBLISHER

MICHELLE YU RE/MAX Real Estate Services

4

ODLUM BROWN LIMITED Investment Firm

6

OPAL by ELEMENT Elegant Retirement Suites

8

DR. MICHELLE COUTO Fraser Valley Orthodontics

10

EDITORIAL

Elizabeth The DESIGN + PRODUCTION

Jodeen Hodgson SALES

David Chiew Alison Clay MARKETING + SALES ASSISTANT

WARNETT HALLEN LLP Personal Injury Law Firm

12

WEATHERGUARD GUTTERS Gutter System Experts

14

THE WICKERTREE Indoor and Outdoor Patio Furniture

16

Karen Ngan PHOTOGRAPHY

THE GREAT CANADAIAN LANDSCAPING COMPANY Commercial and Residential Landscaping Services

18

FINLANDIA PHARMACY Natural Pharmacy

20

STATTONROCK GROUP Custom Home Builder

22

SKEENA RESOURCES LIMITED Recycling of Mines

24

GLACIER MEDIA DIGITAL Digital Marketing Agency

Michelle Bhatti

26

Mike Wakefield Lisa King Robert Huynh For inquiries regarding the next edition, contact

advertising@vancouverisawesome.com

VANCOUVER’S PROFILE of EXCELLENCE. IS PRODUCED BY AND IS EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF GLACIER MEDIA INC. COPYRIGHT 2021

3

Michelle Yu

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

W

ith over 27 years in the business and counting, award-winning RE/MAX Metro Vancouver realtor Michelle Yu has no plans to slow down, but she does want to make a difference.

Yu was recently awarded the 2021 RE/MAX Luminary of Distinction title, a distinguished award in which only 19 RE/MAX agents in Western Canada have been eligible to receive as of August 2021.

“This was an honour,” she says. “This is great news in my real estate career. I have two achievements I am proud of - the 2020 Community Care Award from RE/MAX’s head office in Denver, and now, the 2021 Luminary of Distinction Award.”

Yu hopes to pass the torch and inspire her team to do the same by combining ambition with a giving-back sensibility to equal what she believes measures true success. “I’m already very blessed. I hope that other realtors can look at not only getting the commission award but the community award too, that is my hope for the future.”

Yu’s team started back in 2002, with each member possessing their own expertise and skills. Yu believes collectively “they can motivate each other, using our strengths and our skills. My idea is that everyone can maximize our abilities and the resources we offer our clients.”

Staying ahead of the real estate curve during the past 2 years of the pandemic has been a challenge, and Yu is proud of her team’s ability to shift gears and uphold the exceptional reputation she holds as a cornerstone to their success. “Most of our clients are from referrals, and we build up confidence in our relationships, even from the signage in the city which lets people know what we are doing,” she says.

With a brand as high profile as Team Michelle Yu, potential clients hold them accountable to do more in the community.

Says Yu, “I like to help others and give back, and I’d like for my team to do the same.”

What that transpires are fundraising initiatives, including donations to the BC

Children’s Hospital Foundation, the BC Cancer Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, VGH, Richmond Hospital, World Housing, Learning Buddies, Green Technology Education Centre, and more.”

What trends has Team Michelle Yu seen in terms of real estate in 2021? “We’d have to start with 2020, the first year of the pandemic. For some, it was the best year in real estate in a long time,” she says.

“It was mostly local people buying versus overseas buyers. This year, the market is still very strong, the interest rate is super low, and people still have more time to stay at home working, and with their families. For renters, why not buy a condo while it’s more affordable?”

Both buyers and sellers are affected by the new norm when it comes to real estate, and Yu has seen a shift in how business is done since 2020 as well. Waivers are signed and COVID-19 questionnaires filled out before anyone enters a home listed on the market.

Gone are the days of open houses with packed homes filled with people crisscrossing in every room. “Before we allow anyone to enter a home, but now, we ask them to wear masks, sanitize, provide contact tracing information and read signage thoroughly,” adding that only one family is allowed to enter at one time so lineups outside are commonplace.

Virtual open houses, even on Facebook, have become commonplace, “where the realtor goes in alone, shows the buyer every corner of every room, every closet, the garage, and is quite detailed,” says Yu. “Before 2020 I didn’t even know what Zoom was,” she laughs, “and now I use it every day.”

Yu tells us that moving forward into 2022 it’s wise to consider the upcoming city election. “That means city plans and policy may change, and a high demand for properties in Vancouver will continue to rise.”

Clearly the demand is high, with Yu saying that “a week ago, one of our listings brought in 100 showings in two days in Vancouver East. I had multiple offers for the house.

Clearly, the market is still hot.” •

“

“

Staying on the Pulse of the Evolving Real Estate Industry

I like to help others and give back, and I’d like for my team to do the same.

MICHELLE YU

PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

SUITE 110, 3540 W 41ST AVE VANCOUVER, B.C. V6N 3E6 TEAM: 604.329.8228 OFFICE: 604.263.2823 MICHELLEYU.COM

5

Odlum Brown Limited

A

t Odlum Brown Limited, clients come first. That core value has been the foundation of the independent, B.C.-based investment firm since 1923 – and no once-in-a-generation pandemic was going to change that.

“As a firm, we’ve always had a long-term mindset, and we’ve weathered a lot over nearly 100 years in business,” says Odlum Brown President and CEO Debra Doucette (Hewson). “The world may change, and our industry may change, but our commitment to our clients is a constant.”

Being independent means that the firm can focus exclusively on the unique needs of their individual investor clients, and that Odlum Brown advisors are free to build portfolios that are personalized to each individual or family. Part of understanding those unique needs and circumstances, and how they may change over time, is forming long-term relationships with clients.

“Building portfolios is our business, but building relationships is our strength,” says Doucette. “Our clients know that their advisor will always be there to provide them with support and guidance. We’re committed to ensuring it’s always ‘business as usual’ for them, regardless of what may be going on in the broader landscape.”

While advisors are at the forefront of these client relationships, a collective team effort ensures they have the resources they need to support clients.

Odlum Brown’s independent, in-house research team provides analysis with the sole purpose of helping the firm’s clients grow and preserve their wealth. Free from the potential conflicts of interest that may exist at other financial institutions, Odlum Brown’s analysts are empowered to be completely objective when formulating opinions and recommendations.

The firm’s wholly owned subsidiary, Odlum Brown Financial Services Limited, provides specialized insurance, tax, estate and financial planning exclusively to Odlum Brown clients. This value-added service gives clients access to a more holistic financial plan to complement the investment strategies recommended by their advisor.

In addition, all of the firm’s administrative functions are performed in-house by a dedicated Client Services team, allowing for

a higher degree of personalization. “Everything we do at Odlum Brown is done by our team members, for our clients,” says Doucette.

As competition for investor dollars continues to increase, maintaining the level of service provided to clients is paramount – and that’s what Odlum Brown has been able to do for nearly a century.

In fact, at Odlum Brown a significant source of their growing business is client referrals – a testament to the firm’s long-standing focus on client relationships.

“Our advisory teams deliver great results, and that’s in part because they truly ‘walk the talk’ of the principles our firm was founded on. We all believe that if we take care of our clients, our clients will take care of us,” says Doucette. “This remains as true, and as important for our business, as ever.”

But it’s not only their clients who recognize what makes Odlum Brown special.

The firm once again achieved national recognition both as one of Canada’s Most AdmiredTM Corporate Cultures 2020 and one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies – the latter for their 22 nd consecutive year in 2021. Odlum Brown also received a 2020 Canada’s Volunteer Award from the Government of Canada in recognition of its team members’ commitment to enhancing the well-being of the communities where they live and work.

Says Doucette, “We see these achievements as acknowledgement that the way we run our business is not only effective in good times, but is also well-designed to see us through challenging ones. It’s also a testament to leading with your values – our firm’s success is proof that is always the right path, no matter how extraordinary a situation we find ourselves in.”

Heading into 2022, Odlum Brown’s aim is to continue to grow, expand and invest in their people and processes, all while staying true to their values and taking care of their clients.

Indeed, Odlum Brown will keep moving forward — an approach that has seen them through the myriad global events they have faced as a firm since their inception in 1923.

“Odlum Brown’s foundation is strong, and our future is bright,” says Doucette.“Whatever comes next, we look forward to experiencing it together, as always, with our valued clients.” •

“

As a firm, we’ve always had a long-term mindset, and we’ve weathered a lot over nearly 100 years in business. The world may change, and our industry may change, but our commitment to our clients is a constant.

“

Investment Firm Achieves Success

by Putting Clients First

DEBRA DOUCETTE (HEWSON) PRESIDENT AND CEO

Debra Doucette (Hewson), President and CEO

SUITE 1100, 250 HOWE ST VANCOUVER, B.C. V6C 3S9 604.669.1600 ODLUMBROWN.COM INFORMATION@ODLUMBROWN.COM

7

OPAL by element O

PAL by element is changing the perception of retirement residences not just in design, ambience and variety of amenities and activities, but also in the way we value food and the importance of nutrition for older adults.

The dishes presented by Executive Chef Alex Mok – and his team of sous chefs – at OPAL’s Hummingbird Café are mouth-wateringly tasty and refreshingly pleasing to the eyes.

Each meal is prepared with passion and top quality, fresh ingredients and presented with care and creativity.

Attention to detail is evident across all aspects of the boutique collection of rental suites and condominium units on Vancouver’s west side, and food is an important part of the equation.

It has the power to bring families and community members together and significantly enhance overall health and well-being.

While the culinary offerings at OPAL may come as a surprise for people expecting the usual fare, Mok has also found his experience at OPAL “inspiring,” he says. “I’ve worked in many different environments before, including small-scale fine dining restaurants, high-end hotels and corporate kitchens, but here, there are no limits to my creativity.”

Mok, who has won numerous awards and was featured on multiple television and radio programs, relishes this sense of freedom. Asked about his favourite dish, he laughs. “I don’t have a signature dish, because when you have only one dish you do best, this is bound to limit your ability to explore and be creative.”

Mok has a unique style and deeply personal approach to cooking: he values Western-style food presentation, loves combining elements of Asian and Western cuisine, and prefers fresh and seasonal ingredients.

“I am originally from Hong Kong, so I grew up eating a lot of Chinese food with my family, even after I moved to Canada when I was 11,” he says. Surely, staples like steamed live seafood and double boiled soup, on the menu at OPAL, have their origin in this childhood experience.

At the start of his career, Mok trained to become a pastry chef before studying classic French cuisine in Vancouver. “My first kitchen job was working in a traditional French restaurant,” he recalls. “After that, I worked in different hotels, including the Fairmont and Westin.”

Over the last decade, Mok has observed

a growing interest in healthy eating. “We would get more and more requests for vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free dishes,” he says.

“People also wanted to know whether the chickens were free-range and the seafood ocean-wise.”

He welcomes this interest in where food comes from and how it is produced. “As people say, ‘you are what you eat,’” notes Mok, who is now working with a dietician to ensure the meals at OPAL are not only tasty and well presented but also have a high nutritional value.

A focus on offering farm-to-table menus with wholesome produce from local suppliers enriches the culinary experience for residents while helping to strengthen local food systems, believes Mok. “We use free-run chickens and eggs from the Fraser Valley, for example, and blueberries or strawberries from Richmond farms,” he says, adding that this is a welcome alternative to supermarket strawberries that are often shipped from as far away as California and may be treated with preservatives or picked before they are fully ripe.

“Local ingredients are typically very fresh, and we have lots of choices available in B.C., for example, farms in Surrey offer Asian produce, like choi sum and napa cabbage,” says Mok. OPAL also has a rooftop garden, he adds. “In the summer, we grow carrots, tomatoes, kale, swiss chard, cucumbers, zucchini, onions, chives, green beans and a variety of lettuce, mint and herbs as well as edible flowers, blueberries and strawberries. In the winter, we switch to produce like garlic and squash.”

In addition to authentic ethnic cuisine, residents at OPAL have access to private family dining, rooftop barbecue parties, and bookings for private dining and event experiences at Hummingbird Café’s stylish new bespoke venue.

At an open display kitchen, they can smell the delicious aromas, for example, when in-house pastries come out of the oven. They can also watch the chefs in action, making fresh dim sum daily or using torches to caramelize the sugar topping of crème brulee for example.

In addition, Mok regularly leads culinary demonstrations and group classes.

With his dedication to excellence, Mok is a shining example of OPAL’s vision of enabling residents to live life to the fullest and enrich their days with memorable experiences. •

“

Attention to detail is evident across all aspects of the boutique collection of rental suites and condominium units on Vancouver’s west side, and food is an important part of the equation.

ALEX MOK EXECUTIVE CHEF

“

An Enriching Culinary Experience Within a Vibrant Lifestyle Residence

438 W. KING EDWARD AVE VANCOUVER, B.C. V5Y 0M5 604.871.9265 OPAL.ELEMENTLIFESTYLERETIREMENT.COM

9

Dr. Michelle Couto

Fraser Valley Orthodontics

P

racticing for 14 years, Dr. Michelle Couto recently joined the team at Fraser Valley Orthodontics in Langley, B.C. Having treated many patients in her career, Dr. Couto stays true to her values. “I’m big on informed consent,” she says. “For example, when a patient comes to me for their first exam, I like to give them all the options so they can choose a treatment that provides the results they are looking for, and that works with their lifestyle. I’ve had great success with patients who get involved with their treatment.”

Dr. Couto grew up in Kitimat, B.C, attained her DMD from Nova Southeastern University, and graduated from Loma Linda University with an MS in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Always upgrading her knowledge and skills, she regularly attends the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontics and American/Canadian Association of Orthodontics Conventions, plus the Invisalign Summit.

At her new Langley practice, 70% of her patients are kids and teens, and the remainder are adults. When it comes to children, “I think braces are like a rite of passage for adolescents, everyone gets them now,” she says.

Beyond just straightening crooked teeth “we have a lot of kids not sleeping well at night because they cannot breathe well, that have sleep apnea and snoring. Orthodontics helps that a lot by improving airway expansion.”

Couto believes people are more adaptive to wearing braces now, especially with the numerous options today vs. the steely ‘train tracks’ that were the only choice years ago.

“We have gold braces, clear, rainbow colours, Invisalign - it’s just accepted and it’s typical to wear braces or glasses anymore.

Plus, it takes a lot less time now as our technology has improved, the engineering, and physics has progressed.”

Adult patients have increased in number especially in the last two years during the pandemic, and Dr. Couto believes all that hiding behind our protective masks daily has made the choice easy, especially for anyone self-conscious about wearing braces. “Most people have more disposable income lately, we are not traveling for vacations as much, and we adults ‘see’ ourselves more,” referring to the uptick in improving one’s appearance in everything from facials, Botox, IPL and more. When it comes to adults fixing their teeth at any age, “most people say they wish they had done this sooner,” she says.

Fraser Valley Orthodontics believes in supporting their local community with contests, sporting events, working with B.C. children’s mental health, and “burger and beer night where we take the parents out instead of the patients,” Couto laughs.

During the pandemic, the health and safety of both patients and staff at any medical practice are crucial - with increased infection control, contact tracing, and virtual waiting rooms becoming the new norm, all safe practices that Couto hopes will continue.

Alternatives to traditional braces like Invisalign are increasingly popular and provide excellent results, but as she points out, only work if the patient is committed to wearing them as directed. And the trend of doing orthodontic self-treatment at home without a doctor involved? “It’s just not safe,” she says.

As Fraser Valley Orthodontics just opened in May 2021, building the business involves increased marketing and establishing a presence as a new service in Langley, but says Dr. Couto, “I have an amazing team, everybody works together, and it’s not just a one person show. We do a lot for our patients and our community, and the biggest compliment we get is that we all look like we are having fun.” •

“

When a patient comes to me for their first exam, I like to give them all the options so they can choose a treatment that provides the results they are looking for, and that works with their lifestyle.

“

Langley Orthodontist Loves what she does

DR. MICHELLE COUTO ORTHODONTIST

SUITE 426C , 19705 FRASER HWY LANGLEY, B.C. V3A 7E9 604.546.2279 FRASERVALLEYORTHODONTICS.COM

11

Warnett Hallen Law W

hen you’ve been hurt in a serious accident, you need a trusted advocate that’s ready to fight for your best interests.

That is where Warnett Hallen LLP comes in.

Founded by Paul Warnett and Manjot Hallen, the Vancouver-based personal injury law firm works tirelessly in pursuit of maximum compensation and fair outcomes for their clients.

Warnett, has vast experience representing clients before the Provincial and Supreme Courts of British Columbia, and the Court of Appeal of British Columbia. With thousands of cases to his credit, personal injury and car accident lawyer Manjot Hallen brings a wealth of experience to every client assignment.

Having connected as colleagues at a firm specializing in car accidents, Warnett and Hallen joined forces as partners in 2013 and started a firm that also represents those involved in other unfortunate accidents — such as slip-and-fall accidents and dental malpractice.

Warnett Hallen LLP’s motto is ‘Settle for More’, because to their team, clients should never have to settle for less than what they deserve.

“When we say settle for more, we’re not just talking about monetary compensation,” says Manjot Hallen. “we’re saying settle for more in terms of a lawyer that looks after and cares about your best interests and responds to your needs in a timely fashion.”

The partners at Warnett Hallen LLP have decades of experience litigating injury claims and pursuing full and fair compensation for accident victims. The firm’s legal team of attorneys handle the complexities of dealing with the insurance agencies so that clients can concentrate on their recovery.

In their aim to give an exceptional level of service, the firm makes their clients feel like they are doing right by them every step of the way. That means one-on-one consultations with their principals, timely follow-ups from their staff, and of course, a long track record of successful results.

“We’re never going to be the firm that convinces a client to settle for a certain amount or engage in unnecessary litigation they may be afraid of,” explains Hallen. “We are going to be the firm that puts all of the information to

our clients and helps them make an informed decision.”

Sensitive to the physical and emotional injuries experienced by personal injury victims, of equal importance to the Warnett Hallen team, in addition to defending their client’s interests, is to handle each case with the utmost care.

“We empathize with our clients when they’ve been in a situation where something awful has happened — they’ve been in a car accident, they’ve suffered a slip and fall injury, or they’ve suffered from malpractice,” says Hallen. “We want to be there to tell them that things are going to be okay, and we’re going to look after them.”

“

When we say settle for more, we’re not just talking about monetary compensation, we’re saying settle for more in terms of a lawyer that looks after and cares about your best interests and responds to your needs in a timely fashion.

MANJOT HALLEN PARTNER

“

Empowering Accident Victims to Settle for More

Beyond creating a comforting and encouraging environment for their clients, the firm brings their full depth and breadth of experience to ICBC claims. In response to the new claims system put in place by ICBC, in which injury victims have essentially lost their right to claim fair compensation, Warnett Hallen LLP has joined the province-wide campaign alongside the Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia and other law firms to stand up against these changes.

“We’ve got to fight, not just as the firm alone, but collectively as trial lawyers in B.C.,” states Hallen. “We have to push back against the new legislation and ensure that car accident victims and injury victims will continue to have the right to fair compensation.”

Constantly thinking about their impact beyond the firm’s cases, the team is active in giving back to their community, having been involved with BC Children’s Hospital, BC SPCA, Vancouver Pride, Vancouver Sun Run, and CIBC Run for the Care over the years.

Looking ahead, Warnett Hallen LLP is committed to ensuring that their firm continues to take the burden off of their clients and provide comfort and empowerment to them through achieving the outcomes they deserve.

“We take a lot of pride in how our clients view us after they’ve worked with us,” says Hallen.

“From being voted by the local community for awards to receiving exceptional reviews online, the best barometer of our success is the wonderful things that our clients say about how we were there for them and exceeded their expectations when they were in their time of need.” •

500 - 720 ROBSON ST VANCOUVER, B.C. V6Z 1A1 604.737.3300 WARNETTHALLEN.COM

13

Weatherguard Gutters

W

eatherguard Gutters has long been the first choice for residential homeow ners, st ratas, a nd commercial builder’s when it comes to gutter installation for their project. Whether it’s for a renovation or new construction needs, Weatherguard offers high-quality, custom solutions that are fair-priced, low maintenance and have one of the best warranties around, always installed by a team of experts.

“30 years ago, the company was started by the original owner, who brought it to a certain point and thought it was time it went further.

We bought it 6 years ago and saw that it was a niche business and important with all the rain here in the Lower Mainland,” says Stephen Wall, CEO of Weatherguard Group. Since then, they have “added more trucks to the road, trained more installers, and really grown the business.”

Wall is clearly proud of his 30-person team, adding “we have such great installers that are the core of the business, some with 15-plus years with the company, and the younger, newer guys have been able to train under these experienced people.”

How does one know when it is time to replace existing gutters, or what type to install in a brand-new build? “Most gutters have a 20-year life span, before they start failing, they don’t look as nice, and are maybe getting rusty,” says Wall. “That’s an opportunity to upgrade your system, and we usually match the profile that already exists, or suggest something else if there are a lot of trees in the area, like leaf screens which reduces the amount of maintenance, or traps at the bottom of downpipes that are more accessible to get debris.”

Weatherguard was the first in Western Canada to bring in European-style gutters, a half-round system, plus a hot décor trend are copper gutters that patina a lovely shade of turquoise colour over time.

Not to be confused with a gutter cleaning company, Weatherguard finds and offers “solutions based on the life of the system, what the issue is, and that doesn’t always have to be replaced,” offers Wall. “Gutters are often an afterthought, but most people want them done

right, as they enhance or take away from a nice build. Our estimators are great in the design process, considering gutters to be a trim, an art, and it’s got to be done right.”

When a potential client calls for an estimate, Weatherguard prides itself in a service most competitors do not offer – a house call. While others just look up the address online and give an estimate over the phone, Wall tells us they “always send out an experienced estimator to have a look, measure, and walk the client through the process, showing you exactly what your options are – dealing with a real person so they can make a better decision.”

“There are not a lot of callbacks or issues with our gutters,” Wall adds. “It’s an annoyance when you pay good money to get the job well done, and some companies do not warranty their work. Most of our business comes from referrals - people are happy with our service.”

Weatherguard values the good relationships they’ve established in the construction market as well, with builders who know “we have a good scheduling team, which is a huge benefit in our industry, and that we have an office so it’s easy to get someone on the phone, to schedule, or pay a bill. We offer a ten-year warranty, and that goes a long way, plus having our 30-year reputation.”

Just as in design and architecture, trends in gutter style vary through the years too, and Weatherguard has noticed that straight lines with round downpipes compliment new homes and “look nice from whatever angle you view it from” and the European gutters are gaining popularity for offering both form and function.

Like any company, growth and success is often measured monetarily, but Weatherguard values and credits their team as much as they do their customers. “Over the past 2 years our reputation for taking care of our employees has gone a long way,” says Wall. “We’ve had experienced installers want to join our team, because they heard good things about us, and we have had competitors approach us wanting to merge with our company. That is exciting, and we want to continue to grow our company that way.” •

“

“

Keeping Homes Safe and Dry in the Lower Mainland for Over 30 Years

We provide exceptional service with experience, and have a reputation that goes a long way.

STEPHEN WALL CEO

5525 272 ST LANGLEY, B.C. V4W 1P1 604.574.1985 WEATHERGUARDGUTTERS.COM

15

The Wickertree D

ustin Knapp is a people-person.

Anyone encountering him personally or seeing his video clips on the website of The Wickertree – which boasts B.C.’s largest selection of high-quality indoor and outdoor patio furniture and accessories – will notice his passion for connecting.

It is fitting then that Knapp, as CEO of the company, gets to reach out to past, current, and future customers to not only share his vision for the family business, but also listen to what they may want to reveal about their dreams and expectations.

“Connecting is very important to us,” says Knapp. “We want to connect with every customer who walks through our door.”

With the overarching vision to help customers create their dream outdoor or indoor living spaces, this connection should be “on a human level rather than focused on a sales pitch,” he emphasizes. “We want to engage people in a discussion about the products they are looking for and about what they are hoping to accomplish.”

Gaining background information about the plans of customers allows The Wickertree team to make recommendations based on their expertise and knowledge of different product lines, Knapp explains. “Exploring options together often means that everybody’s happier in the end.”

For a job well done, customers will have a seamless experience – and come away feeling a connection to The Wickertree.

The many online videos and customer testimonials suggest that this approach is working, and further evidence bolsters the claim of “customer satisfaction,” says Knapp. “In my previous role as general manager, it was my task to deal with complaints and returns.

However, I had to spend very little time on that, because we have extremely few complaints, and we don’t have returns.”

While the team’s efforts to help customers find the perfect fit is part of this success, there is another key element: a strong partnership with “excellent suppliers,” says Knapp, adding that many of the connections with trusted suppliers have been established over time by The Wickertree, which has been in operation in Langley since 1976 – and owned by the Knapp family for about 16 years.

“Quality is very important to us,” he says.

“Everything we sell, every product – whether it’s furniture or an accessory – is of high quality.”

The Wickertree’s motto – to choose quality over quantity – is also reflected in the number of suppliers, who are vetted not only on how well their products perform but also on whether sustainability and ethical sourcing are part of their value proposition.

Although this requires due diligence and investigations into the reputation of suppliers, the efforts are well worth it, Knapp says.

“We have a lot of confidence in our suppliers, and we know how good our products are.

We simply don’t carry things that would fail our customers within a short period of their purchase.”

And should an issue arise, good warranties paired with strong relationships with suppliers will help to see it resolved in a timely manner, he adds. “We have a lot of repeat customers, people who continue to come in and tell us they loved our product and service.

We’ve worked hard to build a reputation for quality, and I don’t think we would have our following, reputation and trust if our approach wasn’t genuine.”

“For more than a decade, The Wickertree has been partnering with the VGH, UBC and BC Children’s Hospital Lotteries, furnishing the outdoor spaces of the homes that are part of the draw, says Knapp.”

“We’re very proud of this connection, and that’s another area where you can see our work in a real-world setting.”

At a time when people spend more time at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on workplaces and travels, Knapp has observed that “people are more comfortable investing in their homes, whether that’s renovations, upgrades or enhancements.”

He hopes The Wickertree can be part of such plans and urges Wickertree customers, “Think of us when you’re sitting in your beautiful new spaces with friends and family.

We’re grateful when you share your experience, because word-of-mouth is still the best medium for spreading our message.

“We want to continue to grow and reach more people because there’s something about our approach that is really positive and resonates widely.” •

“

We want to engage people in a discussion about the products they are looking for and about what they are hoping to accomplish.

DUSTIN KNAPP CEO

“

Helping Customers Create Their Dream Living Spaces

102 - 20460 LANGLEY BYPASS LANGLEY, B.C. V3A 5E7 604.530.0818 THEWICKERTREELANGLEY.COM INFO@THEWICKERTREELANGLEY.COM

17

Building Community for over 21 years!

C

hris O’Donohue, President & Founder of The Great Canadian Landscaping Company comes by his chosen career naturally.

“I have grown up in a family business atmosphere,” he says. “When I was 13, I started working at Maple Leaf Garden Centre as one of the part-time students loading plants and bags of soil for clients in the nursery. In 1994, my father started “Plants Galore” in West Vancouver, and I worked there for over 6 years while in high school and my early college days.”

During this time, O’Donohue developed an interest in landscaping and horticulture. “In 2000, I decided to start my own business. Initially, it was solely a lawn and garden maintenance business with additional services such as hedge pruning and garden renovations, but it quickly grew.”

It all changed in 2003, when O’Donohue was hired by one of the founders of Milestones restaurants to install an entire landscape for his home in West Vancouver. From there, he realized that he could offer more than just maintenance services and expanding his service offerings would allow his business to really take off.

In 2006, O’Donohue added snow and ice management services, which included plowing, salting and shoveling sidewalks for many of The Great Canadian Landscaping Company’s strata and commercial clients.

“It was a good way to keep our maintenance teams working throughout the winter, rather than get laid off for 3 months,” says O’Donohue, the needs of his clients allowed his company to grow to further become a one-stop-shop.

Currently, the company specializes in landscape design, installation, maintenance, carpentry, outdoor kitchens, outdoor living spaces, fire and water features, landscape lighting, and irrigation.

At present, the business has over 65 employees, with 30% of them women. A slick website illustrates the talents and skills of the team beautifully, with inspiring photos and plenty of useful information for the potential customer. Residential clients are The Great Canadian Landscaping Company’s specialty and make up about 60% of their business, commercial clients are 25%, and strata make

up the remaining 15%.

He adds that “every project should start with a design. Preparing a design is helpful for the client to visualize the end result and will assist in eliminating costly errors during the installation process by not having to re-install portions of the landscape while underway.

When approved, we move on to the installation. When completed, we can continue with maintaining it as well. A concise design is the most important thing to ensure nothing is missed before the shovel hits the ground.”

As a proud resident of the North Shore, The Great Canadian Landscaping Company has a solid reputation of supporting local sports teams, donating to charities, and participating in fundraising for schools.

We are proud to sponsor is the Grouse Mountain Tyee Ski Club, as we believe a strong athlete base builds a better community.

As a professional, O’Donohue holds the designation of a Certified Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist in accordance with the Statutes of the Province of B.C. His team are a mix of skilled pros themselves, each member having strengths and talents that collectively add up to success for the client.

“Our team values include being accountable, having credibility, and standing behind what you do,” O’Donohue says, adding that To ensure that, each project has a manager who oversees it all, working as a liaison with both client and crew for best outcome.

“Our goal has always been to be the answer, to be able to take care of things, and make it easy so our customers don’t have to do it all themselves,” O’Donohue says.

Keeping up with environmentally friendly initiatives is crucial in the landscaping business and The Great Canadian Landscaping Company is moving to battery powered equipment for their maintenance teams.

As far as future plans and growth for the brand goes, O’Donohue’s approach is refreshing.

“It’s not always about growing, it’s about being able to give back to the community that supports you, live a great life, and make sure your family and work family is happy.

Our job is to improve people’s lives and we do that each and every day in all aspects of our business. We love to build and maintain our clients’ dreams, one landscape at a time. •

“

“

The Great Canadian Landscaping Company

We love to build and maintain our clients’ dreams, one landscape at a time.

CHRIS O’DONOHUE PRESIDENT & FOUNDER

118 GARDEN AVE NORTH VANCOUVER, B.C. V7P 3H2

604.924.5296 GCLC.COM INFO@GCLC.CA

19

Finlandia Pharmacy A

s individuals and as a global community, our health and wellness have never been more front and centre than today. As the world recovers from the pandemic, we all move forward with a strong sense of responsibility to ourselves and each other to be well and stay that way.

Vancouver’s Finlandia Natural Pharmacy is committed to that goal. As a community, many of us are eager to learn about preventative and alternative medicine, and Finlandia is a ‘One Stop Health Shop’ with professionals from all modalities on staff.

Expert advice and a wide range of products are available from herbal medicine, supplements, skincare, beauty products, and a compounding pharmacy.

Founded in 1974 by pharmacist Harlan Lahti, Finlandia Pharmacy and Natural Health Centre still uphold Lahti’s vision, values, and gold standard when staffing a solid health care team that genuinely cares about their customers.

“Service, Service, Service, has become Finlandia’s motto in all areas,” says Harlan Lahti, founder of Finlandia. “It simply became my passion for providing natural options to health care without drugs.”

“We are a pioneer in the natural pharmacy space,” says Gavin Mah, Chief Operating Officer of Finlandia. “We are the original natural pharmacy in Canada, where we offer a mix of western and natural medicine.

Additionally, a lot of people are not aware that we are a full compounding pharmacy, that we can fill any prescription you have.”

What this means is that Finlandia can formulate medicines to adapt to a client’s needs.

For example, people who struggle with swallowing pills can have their prescription made into a topical cream as a transdermal medicine. MDs, clinics, hospitals, and

naturopathic doctors have referred their patients to Finlandia for decades as a compounding pharmacy.

Alternative medicine has become a large part of many Canadians health care plans and goals, with the gap closing between that and western medicine in a very positive way. Finlandia recognizes that supporting one’s system with natural, preventive means and remedies works for our bodies and has for centuries.

Finlandia’s retail space, both at store level and online, has the most qualified health professionals who offer expert advice and take the time to educate customers to make informed choices when it comes to supplements and lifestyle products best suited for them.

Another essential aspect of optimal health is knowing when it is safe to mix western medicine with natural products. The Finlandia team and their licensed pharmacists ensure their advice regarding supplements will be safe and effective, factoring in all products from both modalities, so there are no unsafe interactions.

The health and beauty departments focus on a natural approach offering organic products of the highest quality. Well-known and sometimes hard-to-find natural cosmetics, hair and skincare brands stock the shelves in-store and online, a wide range of healthcare supplements from leading brands are available, plus healthy snacks round out the shopping list.

Wellness product offerings include essential oils, soothing candles, products for babies, pets, even natural household cleaning items.

Onsite-blended herbal teas are available and very popular. “We have it all,” says Mah. “We bring to the table what people need to stay well. We care, and we are here to listen and help.” •

“

When it comes to supporting your health, nothing quite matches Finlandia’s selection, customer service, and expertise.

GAVIN MAH

“

Pioneers in the Natural Pharmacy Space in Vancouver

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

1111 WEST BROADWAY VANCOUVER, B.C. V6H 1G1 604.733.5323 FINLANDIAHEALTHSTORE.COM

21

Stattonrock Group D

ifferent people will have different ideas of what their dream home looks like. It may be a 4,000-square-foot building with space for multiple generations, or a 300-square-foot tiny house.

Despite these differences in expectations, there is a common element that contributes to realizing a personal vision for building or renovating a home: it is best undertaken with a trusted partner who will listen, advise, and guide the project to completion.

That’s why Dan Dueck, president and co-founder of Stattonrock Group, considers client relationships a priority.

“We take the time to understand our clients’ overall vision so we can provide them with a beautiful and well-built home that meets their needs,” he says.

“We have extremely high expectations of ourselves, and this translates into the quality of our work and our client care.”

Tanya Maahs, Sales & Marketing Manager of Stattonrock, makes sure clients feel looked after with regular communication for project milestones as well as site visits.

“It’s exciting to witness the transformation in our projects together with our clients,” she says. “Recently, a client whose renovation just came to an end told us, ‘I am going to miss you; you’ve become like family to us.’ That’s exactly what we strive for.”

Client testimonials reveal that this approach – along with Stattonrock’s commitment to quality – is widely appreciated. And this reputation has helped the company, which was founded in 2007 by Randi and Dan Dueck, grow into a thriving enterprise forecast to achieve gross revenues of $20 million this year.

Today, the family business is comprised of four distinct entities: parent company Stattonrock Design + Build, Stattonrock Plumbing + Heating, Stattonrock Woodwork, and Simply Living by Stattonrock, the tiny house division.

“Having all this expertise under one umbrella helps us deliver excellence in quality across the entire value chain,” says Carissa Youssef, Stattonrock’s CEO, who sees the company’s growth as a reflection of the acumen and authenticity of the Duecks’ vision for achieving

a positive impact in a changing industry.

A key consideration for any custom homebuilding or renovation project is environmental impact. Dueck credits the BC Energy Step code, which sets five performance levels or steps that exceed the base BC Building Code, with encouraging builders to progressively improve the energy performance of buildings.

Step five indicates a home has been constructed as net-zero energy ready (NZER), and Stattonrock is poised to meet and exceed the provincial target that all new buildings be NZER-certified by 2032.

Youssef, who lives in a net-zero custom home that was completed in 2021, has noticed a number of practical benefits that have made a big difference in their quality of life.

“During the heat dome we experienced this summer, we were able to live comfortably and sustainably and didn’t experience any severe spikes in cost because our home is so wellsealed,” she says.

In addition to reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and energy costs, NZER buildings bring numerous health benefits.

“I’m very passionate about building science and how it allows us to create these new airtight, durable and extremely efficient homes,” says Dueck.

Beyond advancing environmental outcomes, Stattonrock is dedicated to achieving a positive community impact.

“Giving back is an integral part of who we are,” says Youssef. “We have made a commitment of $100,000 each to two charities, Foundry and Food for the Hungry Canada and enjoy our ongoing partnerships with these organizations.”

“Underpinning much of these efforts is a solid foundation established by the company’s founders, who created a positive and caring culture and work environment “where everyone has respect for each other and feels supported,” says Maahs. “It’s our vision to see all the stakeholders within our ecosystem flourish, and that includes employees, vendors, suppliers and clients.”

Youssef adds, “We’re a purpose-driven company with strong core values. We want to walk alongside people and help to elevate their journey towards a brighter future.” •

“

I’m very passionate about building science and how it allows us to create these new airtight, durable and extremely efficient homes.

DAN DUECK

“

Building Relationships Alongside Homes in B.C.

PRESIDENT AND CO-FOUNDER

4401 GLENMORE RD ABBOTSFORD, B.C. V4X 1X5 604.624.0100 STATTONROCK.COM

23

Recycling Mines for a Sustainable Future

M

etals are all around us. We use them in our smartphones, medical equipment, solar panels, and pretty much anything else you can imagine. If it’s not grown, it’s mined. Metals are both a critical part of a sustainable future and our evolving society.

Taking an innovative approach to providing us with the metals we need, Vancouver-based company Skeena Resources Limited has started a business model around the idea of mine recycling. The recycling of mines, called brownfield sites, means looking for additional mineral resources where they have been mined before.

“Rather than looking for new mineral properties, we started looking at closed pastproducing mines,” says Justin Himmelright, Vice President of Sustainability at Skeena Resources Limited. “This is more in alignment with the environmental and social values in society today.”

Skeena has acquired the closed past-producing precious metal mines of Eskay Creek and Snip, located in Tahltan Territory, an area known as the Golden Triangle in northwest B.C. Focused around working with communities, especially Indigenous Nations, Skeena offers value for those communities and drives business with contracts for services and employment.

“Social licence is an overused but paramount term,” says Himmelright. “Support from communities to move projects ahead is required. Skeena’s focus on the broader conversation of reconciliation within Indigenous communities is demonstrated by the focus of our organization which, along with the focus on recycling of mines, makes us a unique operator in the mining space.”

Recent successes for Skeena include the company’s collaboration with the Tahltan Nation on conservation and investing in future generations.

Skeena has worked with the Tahltan Nation to convert 3,500 hectares of their mineral tenures next to Mount Edziza Provincial Park into a protected area. This conservancy will be protected from mineral development forever – an example of the company’s innovative approach to sustainable development, collaboration, reconciliation with Indigenous peoples and protecting the land for

future generations.

In terms of investment in future generations, Skeena has created a mentorship program working with six young Tahltan Nation professionals in various capacities.

“Tahltan played a major role in the Eskay Creek Mine when it was previously in operation, making up 30-35% of the workforce.

We would like to build on that legacy and see Tahltans in management positions when the mine moves into operation again; we have begun with training and experience for young professionals who want to work in an industry that has a significant presence in their Territory.” says Himmelright.

Skeena is also supporting the Tahltan Nation in moving forward as a regulator on their territorial lands. The Eskay Creek Revitalization Project will be the first mining project in B.C. to be granted an Environmental Assessment Certificate authorized by a First Nation.

“We believe that this is the right step to take in acknowledging Indigenous Title and Rights in the area. This is unceded territory and taking this step is in line with our values on supporting reconciliation with Indigenous people.” Himmelright says.

The reopening and revitalization of the Eskay Creek mine is also a serious undertaking.

“During its operation, it was the highest-grade gold mine in the world. We have an opportunity to bring it to today’s standards; a project that is environmentally clean, runs on green energy, supports reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and creates prosperity in local communities,” Himmelright says.

The focus on mine recycling and collaboration with First Nation communities is proving to be a successful combination.

Skeena Resources has grown significantly over the past year and the Eskay Creek Revitalization project is on track to reach commercial production by 2024.

Skeena believes that working with communities, supporting reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, collaboration, partnership and innovation creates value for shareholders.

“Investing in our people is a huge part of our future. When you look across our organization, we have a young workforce that is socially aware and in tune with the realities of environmental standards of today. •

“

The company’s sustainability approach plans for future generations and is about the legacy you are creating.

“

Skeena Resources Limited

JUSTIN HIMMELRIGHT VICE PRESIDENT OF SUSTAINABILITY

1021 WEST HASTINGS ST, SUITE 650 VANCOUVER, B.C. V6E 0C3 604.684.8725 SKEENARESOURCES.COM

25

Glacier Media Digital S

ince its founding in 1988, Glacier Media Group has been a foremost presence in Canada as a producer and distributor of general and specialized products related to news, data and analysis.

Whether a community newspaper, an authoritative business journal, or marketing and advertising consultation, the Vancouver-based company has consistently evolved to fulfill the diverse needs of business and consumers alike.

But throughout the previous decade, it became increasingly apparent that how the masses prefer to receive and disseminate information was undergoing radical and permanent change. It was crucial that Glacier create a dedicated division for this new present and inevitable future.

The result, in 2015, was Glacier Media Digital (GMD).

From the outset, GMD’s mission has been to help businesses better understand and thrive in today’s complex and ever-changing digital landscape. Whether a sole-proprietor boutique in a small town or a multinational corporation, GMD tailors personalized plans that span all mediums—from social media platforms and digital magazines to a business’s own e-commerce website.

GMD’s suite of services—as well as its oneon-one approach with clients—has clearly struck a chord with business owners and stakeholders across the country and beyond.

From a mere six employees when it began, in less than seven years the company has grown to encompass almost 100 staff and extended staff.

GMD has successfully executed thousands of small- and large-scale projects for clients

from sectors including retail, hospitality, financial and medical services, real estate, non-profit, government and much more. In recognition of its achievements, GMD has won multiple provincial and international marketing awards.

Laura Larson, Director of Marketing Operations, credits much of GMD’s success to its 360-degree approach for every project— from ensuring that a client’s business model and specific needs are fully understood, to executing results that resonate strongly with the largest possible audience.

“

We prioritize client goals and factor in the end user’s wants, this process allows us to map the user flow for all of our digital services.

LAURA LARSON

“

Modern solutions for an ever changing communications landscape

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING OPERATIONS

“We prioritize client goals and factor in the end user’s wants,” she says. “This process allows us to map the user flow for all of our digital services. From content to websites to social strategy, everything starts with ‘Why.’” As well, because GMD is fully based in Canada—not overseas—and is home to the country’s largest online network of local news, its team possesses an intimate understanding of domestic businesses and consumers, including the latest trends that drive how an audience is engaged and retained for the long-term.

“As consumers increasingly shift their decisions and behaviours online, it’s a pleasure to work with our teams across Canada to support businesses in their digital transformation,” says Ian Smith, Director of Digital Operations.

At the dawn of 2022, GMD continues to expand and diversify, poised to remain one step ahead of a dynamic communications landscape that will surely be as unrecognizable five years from now as today’s is compared to 2016. • 303 W 5TH AVE VANCOUVER, B.C. V5Y 1J6 778.788.6679 GLACIERMEDIADIGITAL.CA

27