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CHEAP EATS THE BEST BARGAIN BITES AND HOTTEST MEAL DEALS P.59 AWAY TEAM What Happens If We Lose the Whitecaps for Good? p.22

CITY OF STYLE

FASHION SECRETS FROM VANCOUVER’S BEST-DRESSED

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plus Interior designers’ small-space secrets

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Contents SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026 VOLUME 59 // NUMBER 6

36 CHEAP EATS THE BEST BARGAIN BITES AND HOTTEST MEAL DEALS P.59 AWAY TEAM What Happens If We Lose the Whitecaps for Good? p.22

Culture

11 14 16 20

PERSONAL SPACE

Inside a young family’s “adult treehouse” loft in Mount Pleasant.

FASHION SECRETS FROM VANCOUVER’S BEST-DRESSED

$ 7. 9 9

SO FUN CITY

Arts and culture events to warm your heart as the weather cools.

MADE IN VANCOUVER Maria Ida’s colourful glasswork blows us away.

(HOME) JANIS NICOL AY; (PERSONAL SPACE) TANYA GOEHRING

plus Interior designers’ small-space secrets

and the makers putting Vancouver design on the map

ON THE COVER

SHOP HOP

Sweet stationery shops for pretty paper goods.

CITY OF STYLE

21 22 24

Photography by Clinton Hussey

THE HAUL

Poppy Finch CEO Amanda He’s fave blazer and more.

AT ISSUE

What would happen if Vancouver lost the Whitecaps for good?

KNOW-IT-ALL

If your high-rise elevator seems to always be out of order—here’s why.

To put together our shoot for the cover and the accompanying fashion feature took a whole lot of great clothing—we asked each cover star (clockwise from top left: Jason Pillay, Sadé Awele, Justin Mulrain, Sabrina Bloedorn, Julian Lucila and Sue Randhawa) to bring three or four outfit options. Art director Stesha Ho then had to select a cohesive collection of totally unique looks. The result is a shoot that showcases some wild and wonderful waredrobes from some of the city’s most interesting characters.

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

A PUBLICATION OF CANADA WIDE MEDIA LIMITED

VANMAG.COM

ceo and group publisher Ryan Benn

group vp , publishing and operations Nina Wagner

editorial vice - president , content Anicka Quin

editors - in - chief Stacey McLachlan (Vancouver),

Darcy Matheson (BCBusiness), Anicka Quin (Western Living) senior editor Mihika Agarwal (BCBusiness) managing editor , food and culture Kristi Alexandra assistant editor Kerri Donaldson (Vancouver, Western Living) wine and spirits editor Neal McLennan contributing editors Melissa Edwards, Alyssa Hirose editorial interns Justine Drummond, Medina Mohammed, Nibras Sharar email mail@vanmag.com digital

c ’Fit Check Want to know what our cover stars are wearing? Flip to page 26.

vice - president , digital Darcy Matheson

digital marketing manager Rebekah Ho

brand partnerships/digital copywriter Sandrine Jacquot social media and content creator Xiao Qing Wan

design creative director Jenny Reed

art director Stesha Ho (Vancouver, BCBusiness)

FASHION FORWARD

Six of the city’s most fashionable folks share their style and shopping secrets.

Taste

59 62 63 64 66 6

SMALL WONDERS

How interior designers bring big function to the smallest of Vancouver spaces.

CHEAP EATS

Great eats for a great price, all hand-picked by our editorial team.

IN THE MAKING

IN SEARCH OF

Vancouver’s design scene is popping off on the global stage; it’s time for the city’s makers to get their applause at home, too.

BEST THING I ATE

We go hunting for the best seafood towers in town.

An out-of-this-world octopus dish from Chupito rocked our food editor.

THE WINE LIST

Small-batch bottles sure to delight.

MEET CUTE

Our esteened dating columnist laces up her sneakers.

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

TRAVEL

What it’s like to tag along for a trip on the planet’s premier luxury residential ship.

REAL WEDDINGS

An inspiring real-life B.C. wedding and trends galore to kick off your planning.

advisory council

Angus An, Maenam; Patrick Barron, Telus; Victoria Emslie, Nicola Wealth; Peter Jackman, Terminal City Club; Carol Lee, Vancouver Chinatown Foundation; Carol Liao, UBC Peter Allard School of Law; Matt McClenaghan, Edgar Developments; Jennifer Murtagh, Maturn; Gary Pooni, Pooni Group; Greg Zayadi, Rennie Group sales representation vice - president , sales Anna Lee

senior media specialists Brianne Harper,

Mira Hershcovitch, Cathy Huynh mail sales@canadawide.com

production / administration group vp , education and administration Jane Griffiths operations manager Emily Heffring

director of circulation Tracy McRitchie

executive assistant and event producer Julie Fisher events and office manager Julia Jarman

procurement manager and business support specialist

Natasha Jayawardena

production support technician Ina Bowerbank customer service Kelly Kalirai

finance group vp , finance Conroy Ing, CPA, CMA

Sonia Roxburgh, CPA, CGA Terri Mason, Eileen Gajowski

vp of finance accounting

address Suite 130, 4321 Still Creek Drive,

Burnaby, B.C. V5C 6S7 fax 604-299-9188

tel 604-299-7311

web vanmag.com email sales@canadawide.com

VANCOUVER MAGAZINE is published eight times a year by Canada Wide Media Limited, Suite 130, 4321 Still Creek Dr., Burnaby, B.C. V5C 6S7. Phone 604-299-7311; fax 604-299-9188. Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Not responsible for unsolicited editorial material. You can review our complete Privacy Policy at Vanmag.com. Indexed in the Canadian Magazine Index by Micromedia Ltd. and also in the Canadian Periodical Index. International standard serial no. ISSN 0380-9552. Canadian publications mail product sales agreement #40065475.

(FASHION FORWARD) CLINTON HUSSE Y

Features

EDITOR’S NOTE

Coming Up Next Issue

Well Worn

STACEY McLACHLAN editor - in - chief smclachlan @ canadawide . com |

@ stacey _ mclachlan

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

The 2026 Vanmag Wish Book Find more than 100 great gift ideas in our third annual Wish Book—a catalogue of the best locally sourced goodies from your favourite neighbourhood shops, curated by our editors and the city’s coolest tastemakers. Happy holidays, indeed.

Music Makers Dive into the city’s live music scene with a little help from assistant editor Kerri Donaldson. She’ll be breaking down the essential venues, on-the-rise artists and key players sure to rock your world.

behind the scenes

Stage Right The fashion-forward Vancouverites we’re celebrating in this issue deserved a stage, so photographer Clinton Hussey (left, standing with art director Stesha Ho) commissioned his son Gavin to build the perfect platform.

(PORTRAIT) EVA AN KHERA J; (ST YLING) ALSU PASEK; (HAIR AND MAKEUP) ALISHA HOPPS; (CLOTHING) THE BLOCK; (JEWELLERY) ENTI ANA

Our editorial team has the great privilege of being invited to all sorts of events around the city. Just last week, we were offered the opportunity to attend four restaurant openings, a birthday roast for Vancouver’s favourite charity auctioneer, several sneak peeks into new boutiques, an elegant awards dinner and, somehow, even a special fitness experience hosted by a toothpaste conglomerate. While we politely passed on that last one, when we do accept a generous invite to leave our cubicles, the conversation at the office often turns to what to wear. What’s the dress code? What will be appropriate? And, inevitably, one of the editors will offer a timeless reminder: This is Vancouver. Someone will be in a ball gown, and someone will be in cargo pants and flip-flops. Whatever you wear will be just right. This city gets some flak for prioritizing comfort over fashion, but the way I see it, authenticity is as cool as it gets. If stretchy pants bring you joy, why should anyone dare to stop you? I love to live in a place where no one feels pressured to dress to impress, and not just because it allows me, a woman on the cusp of her 40s, to wear shorteralls. I love it because it means anytime I do encounter a strikingly stylish Vancouverite, I know I’m seeing someone with a true passion for fashion—someone who’s getting dressed for the pure love of the game. Contrary to popular belief, these fashion lovers are everywhere. The cool soprano in my community choir, rocking a multicoloured set of corduroy overalls and Dr. Martens. The optician who helped me shop for glasses while wearing a neon-green crocheted caftan. (I persuaded her to be one of our cover stars this month—hi, Sue!) The publicist who has made a short suit his signature look, usually accessorized with a martini. Maybe most Vancouverites don’t feel like they need to dazzle with every outfit and every occasion, but those who love to bring it, bring it, embracing the opportunity for self-expression and beauty with a lovingly, thoughtfully curated wardrobe. Our fashion feature this issue (page 26) celebrates a handful of the city’s most stylish. Whether their recommendations inspire you to dress to the nines for your next special occasion (e.g., a VIP toothpaste-themed workout) or to bring some sartorial creativity to the grocery store, I hope it leaves you feeling and looking like your favourite version of you. And if that means continuing to rock your best pair of shorteralls? All power to you.

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SHOP HOP // SO FUN CITY // MADE IN VANCOUVER // the haul // AT ISSUE // KNOW-IT-ALL

CULTURE

PuttingDown Roots PERSONAL SPACE

by Sandrine Jacquot

photographs by Tanya Goehring

Nicola Wealth’s Jada Fleur-de-Lys is living the childhood dream with her young family in this Mount Pleasant “adult treehouse” loft.

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

C U LTU R E / / PERSONAL SPACE

eople are often surprised that Jada Fleur-de-Lys works in finance when they see her home. The nearly 1,400-square-foot, two-bedroom loft on East 2nd Avenue is bright and brimming with life: numerous large plants, Willy the fluffy 13-year-old cat, Scout the sweet COVID rescue pup and a wide-eyed 10-month-old baby named Remi. “It’s not as big a contrast as you might think,” says Fleur-de-Lys, noting that her job at Vancouver-based wealth management company Nicola Wealth requires a level of creativity, just like decorating does. Over her 12-year tenure at Nicola Wealth, Fleur-de-Lys climbed the ranks from wealth planning associate to director of insurance operations. She first joined the firm a year after she and her now husband, Kyle Legare, moved from Edmonton to Vancouver in 2013. They settled in Mount Pleasant and never left. When they were ready to grow their family, the couple began searching for a place to upsize. They stumbled upon this loft, which happened to be across the alley from the home they had then. With its rope railings, rotating vertical wooden slats separating the upstairs loft space, plenty of built-in storage and a surprising amount of front-garden greenery, they were sold. The couple moved into their “adult treehouse,” as Fleur-deLys describes it, in June 2024. “It just really feels like us,” she says. Everything from the layout to the mysterious giant “Pancho” sign was as-is, move-in ready for the new owners (minus a minor ceiling renovation in the guest room). And just as Fleur-de-Lys uses her creativity to lead a 19-person insurance department at work, she’s curated an eclectic and deeply personal collection of paintings, pottery and photographs in their home. “It was very easy to decorate this place,” she remarks. (“You made it look easy,” her husband clarifies.) Some

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

works she made herself, others were sourced from local artists and shops. “I’m borderline obsessed with Old Faithful,” she notes. Legare’s contribution, Fleur-de-Lys emphasizes, was tech-ing out the place with a smart home sound system that’s ready to play Raffi to Remi’s content whenever it’s “party time.” But when Fleur-de-Lys needs some peace, she’ll sneak down the stairs as the sun comes up, make a cup of coffee and relax. “If you come down right in the morning, you can just sit on the stairs and see the light peering through the windows,” she says.

1 A Sign of the Times Hung above a mirror in the walk-in closet is a flashy keepsake from the couple’s wedding in October 2022, originally placed in the middle of a floral wall for photos on their special day. Legare notes that the sign reflects both of their personalities.

2 Character Study The couple purchased this digital print from Vancouver artist Allan Dobbs when they first moved to British Columbia. “The general consensus is that it’s baby Whoopi Goldberg,” she says. 3 Nacho Average Wall Decor It’s impossible to miss the massive “Pancho” sign that sits high along the living room wall. It was one of the main reasons they viewed the home. “When I saw it, I was like, ‘That is the weirdest thing I’ve ever seen,’” says Legare. After the couple moved in, he did some digging and discovered it’s from an all-you-can-eat Mexican buffet in Phoenix, Arizona, called Pancho’s that closed in 2012. How it reached Vancouver—and where the “’s” is— remains a mystery.

4 Eyeing the Tiger Fleur-de-Lys describes her grandmother, Barbara, as a homey, creative person, always cooking and painting. This hand-painted tiger on porcelain (a gift from her grandmother) depicts Fleur-de-Lys’s Chinese horoscope. “It makes me think about her every time I see it,” she says. 4

Paint It Black Fleur-de-Lys painted over a floral image with black paint following a miscarriage when they first moved into the space. “I wanted to do something that embodied what we were going through,” she says, adding that it’s a reminder that “on the other side of darkness, there’s still beauty.”

Making a Splash According to Fleur-de-Lys, a previous owner had used the space as a pottery studio, leaving behind a kitchen backsplash with handmade tiles (and a few industrial-grade outlets to power a kiln). It adds a special touch to the kitchen, where the couple gets to be creative in a different way. “Most meals are home-cooked,” says Legare. Fleur-de-Lys adds: “We’re always experimenting with different flavours, different cuisines.”

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

C U LTU R E / / SHOP HOP

Get That Paper

These Vancouver stationery shops are packed with perfect pens and paper goods designed to delight. by Caroline Mitchell THE STORE

j GO FOR

THE ESSENTIAL BUY

Paper-Ya 9–1666 Johnston St., paper-ya.com The Regional Assembly of Text 3934 Main St., assembly oftext.com ribbons j Typewriter and retro-inspired

paper goods that would be right at home in a Wes Anderson movie. You’ve been meaning to send more mail: the cheery, floral-bordered Flowers stationery set ($14) comes with a dozen blush-coloured pages and six soft coral envelopes.

trove j Aof treasure artful wrapping

paper, specialty agendas, grown-up glitter pens and washi tape for days. Leuchtturm1917’s hardcover notebooks (from $25) are a classic for a reason, and Paper-Ya stocks a whole rainbow of the German brand in a huge range of sizes and formats.

Sort 2550 Stephens St., sortdays.com a variety of beautiful j Alongside housewares and organizational tools,

you’ll find a tightly curated selection of Italian, Japanese and Korean office supplies, including plenty of Penco products. You’re gonna need something to lug around your felt-tips. The Osakana Fish pen case ($22) is, quote, “possibly the most conversation-worthy pouch we’ve ever carried.”

Buchan’s Stationery and Gifts 2141 W 41st Ave., buchanst.com for your Hobonichi j Refills Techo “life book”—the

cult-fave customizable Japanese planner—and the fanciest fountain pens in town. Drops for new Techo journal covers sell out fast. If the watercolour-printed Mina Perhonen cover ($210) is still in stock by the time this goes to press, snag it to keep your carefully annotated planner pages safe.

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

1912 Amax 2120 W 41st Ave., @1912amaxstationery notebooks, j Cutesy colourful calligraphy

tools and Jellycats galore. (Can smiling plush toys help organize your life? Only one way to find out.) The TWSBI Eco fountain pens ($51) rarely dry out—no wonder these smooth-writing tools are a fave of pen nerds worldwide.

S P O N S O R E D

R E P O R T

models operate at sound levels as low as 34 dB (like a whisper or soft hum), so homeowners can enjoy conversations, family gatherings and everyday moments without the grating background noise often associated with kitchen ventilation.

THE KITCHEN APPLIANCES OF THE FUTURE ARE ALREADY HERE From near-silent range hoods to convenient in-sink dishwashers, Fotile Canada is helping people fall in love with cooking again.

n innovative kitchen appliance doesn’t just mean using new technology or increasing output power. Innovation also means designing an appliance to be its cleanest and most inviting version. These products make people truly want to spend time in the kitchen. This is the intention behind Fotile Canada’s line of premium kitchen appliances. Over the last 30 years, Fotile has become an innovation leader in the kitchen appliance industry. Every year, Fotile invests over 5 percent of its annual revenue into research and development. The company operates a global network of research centres in China, Germany and Japan, and has accumulated over 16,000 patents. Fotile’s appliances are intentionally designed to make cooking a healthier and more enjoyable experience—one that makes

people want to gather in the kitchen, rather than wait for the meal in another room. These appliances have also been recognized by the international design community: Fotile has won 75 iF Awards and 35 Red Dot Awards. From powerful ventilation solutions to advanced cooking and cleaning technologies, every Fotile product is designed to enhance comfort, convenience and well-being through innovation, thoughtful design and a deep understanding of how families live and cook. RANGE HOODS THAT DEFINE COOKING AS A SHARED EXPERIENCE Unlike noisy traditional range hoods, Fotile’s range hoods are engineered to operate quietly while still maintaining powerful ventilation airflow of up to 1,250 CFM to minimize strong odours and vapour. Some

STOVES THAT KEEP THE HOME HEALTHY But what if a healthy and happy kitchen started before ventilation? Fotile’s ranges feature FreshBake™ technology to reduce cooking odours before they spread throughout the home. With a German glass ceramic cooktop and flexible cooking zones, Fotile’s electric range also uses patented PCF filter technology that captures and breaks down particles and harmful vapour to reduce odours by 90 percent. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight stir-fry, roasting vegetables or hosting an eight-person family dinner, you can enjoy the flavours of cooking without worrying about lingering smells settling into sofas, curtains, carpets or clothing. The result is a fresher, more comfortable living environment long after the meal is over. IN-SINK DISHWASHERS THAT SIMPLIFY CLEANING Dishwashers already make post-meal clean-up so much easier, but what if you could simplify the process even further? Fotile’s innovative in-sink dishwasher solutions eliminate the need to bend, making everyday dishwasher loading and unloading smoother. It’s also energy-efficient, holding an ENERGY STAR® certification, using 155 kilowatt hours per year. But perhaps the most convenient feature of Fotile’s in-sink dishwasher is that it can also clean fruits, vegetables and seafood, so every ingredient is ready for cooking without the need for washing it by hand. Plus, these in-sink dishwashers can be retrofitted into existing kitchens and can suit a wide range of layouts, from compact urban homes to spacious kitchen islands. By combining performance, innovation and elegant design in its appliances, Fotile helps Canadian homeowners create kitchens that are cleaner, quieter and more enjoyable places to cook, gather and connect—the kitchens of the future, today.

Learn more about Fotile and its premium, award-winning kitchen appliances at https://ca.fotileglobal.com. Connect on

@Fotile Canada |

@fotile_ca C REATED BY CANADA WIDE MEDIA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FOTILE CANADA

C U LTU R E / / SO FUN CITY

Spin Your Partner

Why some Vancouverites are swapping clubs for ceilidhs. by Anjini Snape As a born-and-raised Scot living in Vancouver, I’ve found it surprisingly easy to find pieces of home here. There are the pubs, the Macand Mc-somethings and, of course, the rain. But one thing Scotland does especially well is an evening of live music, dancing and drinking: a ceilidh. I didn’t expect to find that in Vancouver until I stumbled across Vancouver Ceilidh, a group putting on monthly dances in Marpole. First launched in 1998, their events have grown from around 30 attendees to monthly sellout crowds of 160, many of them in their early 20s. Organiser Duncan Mac Kenzie believes the popularity comes down partly to affordability. Tickets cost $20, or $15 for students— which draws a large crowd from UBC each month. Hosted at the Scottish Cultural Centre, the Vancouver ceilidhs feature traditional Scottish country dances, from group dances like the Dashing White Sergeant to partner dances like the Gay Gordons. If you ever

Fiddle Me This You don’t need to hail from Scotland to join in on the ceilidh camraderie at the Scottish Cultural Centre.

THE DEETS

Dancing runs from 8 to 10:30 p.m., with an optional class beforehand at 7 p.m.

did country square dancing in gym class, you already understand the basics; in this case, a caller walks everyone through the moves while a live fiddle band keeps the crowd in step. It is, as MacKenzie calls it, “Chaos. Organized chaos.” In a city where nightlife is pricey, the ceilidhs can

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Upcoming ceilidhs are on Sept. 25, Oct. 23 and Nov. 13.

be an affordable way to try something new. Whether you bring a dance partner or come solo, after a few rounds of shoulder-knocking dosi-dos, you’ll make friends quickly enough.

Dress comfortably, stay hydrated and prepare to sweat—feel free to skip your cardio class that week. Wear a kilt if you have one, but, whatever you do, don’t call it a skirt: as the old Scottish proverb goes, it’s called a kilt because they kilt the last person who did.

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C U LTU R E / / SO FUN CITY

Back to Cool

Your extracurriculars are here: concerts, festivals, theatre and every fun excuse to ditch your couch. by Kerri Donaldson

TRICKS AREN’T FOR KIDS: AFTER DARK: SCIENCE OF SLEIGHT— MAGIC EDITION WHEN September 2 WHERE Science World COST From $35 An adults-only evening about the science behind magic, sleight of hand, misdirection and illusion. The real magic? No kids. And drinking next to all the science.

WHEN September 4 WHERE Freedom Mobile Arch COST From $49 Get ready to hear “September” in September, as God intended, followed immediately by one guy saying, “Too bad it’s not the 21st tonight.” That guy cannot just let us have this.

KICKING IT: VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC VS. LA GALAXY

FRINGE BENEFITS: VANCOUVER FRINGE FESTIVAL WHEN September 10 to 20 WHERE Granville Island and various venues COST From $15 (plus $10 onetime membership) Theatre, comedy and everything in between. Keep an eye out for Solovela: An Improvised Solo Telenovela because, honestly, why wouldn’t you?

WHEN September 9 WHERE BC Place COST From $39 The Whitecaps host LA Galaxy in a midweek match that feels suspiciously like you just found an excuse for stadium fries.

NIGHT MOVES: BRITA NIGHT RUN VANCOUVER

➣

DILL WITH IT: PICKLE-FEST VANCOUVER WHEN September 12 WHERE City Centre Artist Lodge COST From $25 Move over, pickleball: this is picklefest proper. More than 40 vendors gather for a full day of brined, fermented fun in honour of cucumber’s sassier cousin.

DO YOU REMEMBER?: EARTH, WIND AND FIRE AT THE PNE SUMMER NIGHT CONCERTS

WHEN September 11 WHERE Ceperley Park (Stanley Park) COST From $83 She’s not like a regular run—she’s a cool run. First, it’s at night, famously the coolest time of day. Second, it’s 19+, because drinking! (After the run, not during—that’s water’s time to shine.) Plus, there are medals. Because medals!

HIGHWOMAN: BRANDI CARLILE WITH CMAT WHEN September 17 WHERE Rogers Arena COST From $90 Listen, if you won a Grammy 11 times, I’d go watch you.

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PAN FINALÉ: PAELLA PATIO AT COMO TAPERIA WHEN September 6 WHERE Como Taperia COST $28 The final paella to close out patio season. The big pan gives one final sauté salute before it’s loaded into a giant dishwasher, then buried in the bottom drawer of an equally giant oven until next year.

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REEL GOOD TIME: VANCOUVER QUEER FILM FESTIVAL WHEN September 10 to 20 (online: September 21 to 27) WHERE Various venues/online COST From $19 VQFF returns with queer cinema, sharp conversations and the kind of post-film feelings that require immediate lobby processing (and probably one more popcorn refill for the road).

APOLLO MISSION: BALLET VANCOUVER: BALANCHINE’S APOLLO AND OTHER WORKS

BIG CLASS: VSO: CHOPIN AND TCHAIKOVSKY 4 WHEN September 11 to 13 WHERE The Orpheum COST From $32 Chopin brings the bangers, while Tchaikovsky brings Symphony No. 4, one number and a few centuries shy of a mambo.

WHEN September 11 and 12 WHERE Vancouver Playhouse COST From $30 Ballet Vancouver opens its debut season with a triple bill that includes the infamously difficult Black Swan pas de deux: 32 fouetté turns, equivalent to roughly one attempt to parallel park on Hamilton Street.

THE SPORTING SPICE: MELANIE C

➣

WHEN September 18 WHERE The Vogue COST From $70 Sporty herself hits the Vogue for a night of solo bangers, Spice Girls nostalgia and dancing through whatever 1997 did to us.

For even more fun to-dos around town this month, check out the online events calendar at vanmag.com/events 13

BOOKED AND BUSY: WORD VANCOUVER BOOK FAIR WHEN September 19 (main fair); September 10 to 26 (festival events) WHERE UBC Robson Square and various venues COST Free A week of reading panels, book-fair browsing and seeing how much attention span you have left.

TWENTY SOMETHINGS: 20/20/20

IF YOU BUILD IT: LEGO LIFE

WHEN September 19 WHERE Little Mountain Gallery COST From $20 Three comedians. Twenty minutes each. The math is mathing. And the you? Laughing.

WHEN Tuesdays WHERE Slice of Life COST $5 A low-stakes Lego night for adults who know the architecture of happiness is tiny, plastic and surprisingly painful to step on.

THE PLAYLIST

The Abramson Singers make catchy, unexpected songs shaped by folk, indie rock and jazz. Their spring EP, Anything You Could’ve Been, is, as Leah Abramson (above) puts it, “essentially a midlife crisis in three-part harmony” and “what happens when you write songs not expecting anyone to ever hear them (oops!).” Here, she shares the Vancouver tracks to queue up next. 1

ITSY BITSY: BITS AND BOBS SAMPLES AND SECONDS SALE WHEN September 19 WHERE Heritage Hall COST From $3 Got Craft’s one-day sale of samples, seconds and studio clear-outs is a treasure hunt for people with great taste, weak impulse control and a need for tiny ceramic doll hands.

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PLEASE LIKE THIS: JOSH THOMAS WHEN September 20 WHERE The Vogue COST $55 The Australian comedian brings his bright, dark, beautifully awkward brain to the Vogue. All ages, somehow.

BOY CONCERT: FOO FIGHTERS AND QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE

(& JULIET) MAT THEW MURPHY; (LEAH ABRAMSON) ANGEL A FAMA

WHEN September 20 WHERE BC Place COST From $105 Loud, millennial, nostalgic. I’m excited for all our older brothers. They’ll have such a good time.

BIG FEELS: BIG THIEF

20 MANE EVENT:

SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS VS. BC LIONS

WHEN September 24 WHERE Malkin Bowl, Stanley Park COST From $68 The indie-folk heart-crushers bring their raw, devastating songs to Stanley Park. Bring a sweater, a friend and those feelings you’ve been calling “seasonal allergies.”

WHEN September 25 WHERE BC Place COST From $25 If you enjoy football, drinking beer and shouting in public, you’re either an AI-written spec for a Budweiser commercial or you should probably go to this game.

UPTOWN FUNK: VSO POPS: THE MUSIC OF BILLY JOEL WHEN September 25 and 26 WHERE The Orpheum COST From $32 The VSO takes on the Piano Man himself, which means someone’s dad is about to have the night of his life.

22 SINCE U BEEN

GONETH: & JULIET WHEN September 29 to October 4 WHERE Queen Elizabeth Theatre COST From $77 The pop-musical remix that lets Juliet not only live—but also live her best life. Think: less starcrossed, more Crossroads.

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Immix

Immix is Robyn Jacob’s experimental blend of pop, voice and electronics. A longtime part of Vancouver’s music scene, she plays with some of the city’s best musicians and, “in true East Van style,” says Abramson, “is also my kid’s piano teacher.” LISTEN IF YOU LIKE: Experimental pop, vocal layers, minimal arrangements and music that drifts, glitches and glows. SIMILAR TO: Laurie Anderson, Julia Holter, Björk if she taught an East Van synth choir. BEST SOUNDTRACK FOR: An introspective onion chop. Crying from either raw onions or raw emotions. ESSENTIAL TRACK: “Ocean Eyes.” 3

Great Aunt Ida

You might also know Great Aunt Ida as Ida Nilsen, who ran the legendary Sugar Refinery on Granville Street. “There are so many stories about it,” says Abramson. “I met Ida after showing up there as a young singer-songwriter with a demo in my hand. I think I first saw her play at the Railway Club a million years ago. Listen if you want good songs and maybe a good cry.” LISTEN IF YOU’RE A FAN OF: Intimate, piano-led chamber pop and beautifully bruised songwriting. SIMILAR TO: The Weather Station, Boygenius, Japanese House, early Feist. BEST SOUNDTRACK FOR: Walking home in the rain and your feels. Nearly home. Nearly healed. Very wet. ESSENTIAL TRACK: “Out of Your Light.”

Oxpital

“Not sure if this is cheating, because I play bass in this new band,” says Abramson, “but it’s a supergroup led by Lyn Heinemann, with Ida Nilsen on keys and Oliver Pulleyblank on drums. We all have day jobs and play in multiple bands— which is very Vancouver.” No album yet, but they’re recording this summer. LISTEN IF YOU LIKE: Local supergroups, side-project lore and a suspiciously high day-job-to-talent ratio. SIMILAR TO: So Faint, Great Aunt Ida and East Van rehearsal-room magic. BEST SOUNDTRACK FOR: Finally learning bass, joining three bands and opening up to your roommate. ESSENTIAL TRACK: “Annelids Now”— find it on their YouTube channel or catch a show. VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

C U LTU R E / / MADE IN VANCOUVER

WE LO V E LO C A L A few of Maria Struk’s favourite shopping spots and homegrown makers.

BETA5 409 Industrial Ave. beta5chocolates.com “I love Vancouver brands that combine creativity and play and are delicious. Beta5 is a big favourite of mine. Their chocolates feel like tiny edible art projects. Super special flavours and incredible design and colours.”

PAPER-YA 9–1666 Johnston St. paper-ya.com

House of Glass

How a spontaneous glassblowing class turned into a decade-long love affair with heat, colour and the art of staying present.

“Paper-Ya on Granville Island is pure joy. I walk in and immediately want to send someone a letter on some cute stationery with a brand-new gel pen. So many cute things and the perfect place for a gift. They have an amazing selection of stickers for any sticker lover!”

by Stacey McLachlan

When you know, you know. And when Maria Struk took her first glassblowing class in 2014, she knew. “I signed up thinking it would be a fun creative experiment, and I was hooked immediately. I fell hard for glass,” says the maker behind Maria Ida Designs. “The heat, the colour, the way the material moves... it just felt alive.” What started as curiosity quickly turned into hours upon hours in the studio at Terminal City Glass Co-op, learning through trial and error (“and a lot of play,” says Struk). More than a decade later, she’s built an international reputation for her vibrant blown-glass bowls, vases and glassware: speckled, curvy, candy-coloured beauties that capture her playful spirit. The Rainbow nest bowls and Rainbow mini vases are her best sellers: “They brighten a shelf or a table, and give you a small hit of joy.” But it’s the process, not the product, that keeps the designer passionate about creating after all these years. “Working with glass forces you to stay present. You can’t rush it, and you definitely can’t zone out,” says Struk. “That balance of patience and spontaneity is what keeps me coming back.”

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WOO TO SEE YOU 3671 Main St. wootoseeyou.com “Woo to See You is such a cute boutique with local artists and international brands. They carry the most fun hair clips. They also have Fingerless Joe accessories: the perfect Vancouver-specific gift. I love my green City Centre Motor Hotel hat.”

OH OKAY 209–2111 Main St. ohokay.ca “I recently discovered Oh Okay by taking one of her silver clay ring workshops. I bought her starter kit and made a silver handmade ring at home. The class was fun and welcoming. Super cool material to work with.”

C U LTU R E / / THE HAUL

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Sparkle and Shine Poppy Finch founder and CEO Amanda He left Toronto and the high-pressure world of finance for Vancouver a decade ago, and turned a passion for collecting vintage brooches and earrings into a thriving career in fine jewellery design. The pretty, modern pieces she produces for Poppy Finch are each made to order, with every pearl, diamond and link chosen with discernment. “We’re picky,” says He. But while you can take the finance girl out of Bay Street, you can’t take Bay Street out of the finance girl—as you can tell with a glance into He’s closet. “It’s all blazers,” she laughs.

IMAGE CREDIT

1. Ligne Roset Togo Loveseat It’s probably the most comfortable seat in the house. I got it at Livingspace in Vancouver, and my daughter especially loves it—she’s basically claimed it as hers. We sit there together almost every day to read. It’s incredibly comfortable, but also has such a cool, unique shape that makes a room feel more interesting. $6,775, livingspace.com 2. Aesop Istros Aromatique Room Spray My daughter loves the smell of hotels when we travel, so I started

spraying this in her room and around the house. It reminds us of those trips together, and has become a little ritual at home. I love using it before bedtime or before guests come over because it makes everything feel calm, warm and a little more luxurious. $81, aesop.com 3. Marni Prince of Wales Check Blazer I have a busy schedule between work and family, and throwing on a blazer instantly makes me feel more put together. I have always loved a great blazer—everything from vintage Celine to

Smythe to stealing my husband’s. This Marni one is my newest favourite. I love the classic Prince of Wales check, the beautiful tailoring and how effortless it feels with a tank top, jeans and jewellery. $1,701, farfetch.com 4. Levi’s Embellished Dad Trucker Jacket I love denim and I love jewellery, and I especially love wearing them together. This jacket feels like the perfect mix of both—classic vintage denim covered in colourful rhinestones that look like little jewels. It’s fun, chic and makes

me happy when I put it on. $300, levi.com 5. Santos de Cartier Watch My Santos de Cartier watch was a wedding gift from my husband, so I have worn it for years. I love that it’s so classic and timeless. It’s one of those pieces that goes with everything and never feels out of place. I rarely leave the house without it on. $8,950, cartier.com 6. Sidia The Hand Serum I always keep a hand cream on my desk. When you work in

jewellery, your hands are always in the frame somehow, whether it is meetings, styling pieces or quick photos throughout the day. This one from Sidia is lightweight, moisturizing and smells beautiful without being overpowering. I also love that it’s Canadian. $48, formulafig.com 7. Longchamp Le Pliage Cosmetic Case This little pouch keeps all of my everyday essentials in one place— keys, wallet, lip balm, phone. I throw it into my tote every morning, but it’s also chic enough to grab on the go. I love

that it’s light, practical and so easy to clean, so I never have to be too careful with it. $160, holtrenfrew.com 8. Poppy Finch Bela Diamond Signet Ring This is one of my favourite Poppy Finch pieces. It was originally designed for Isabela on my team and her partner, which makes it feel even more special. It’s bold, confident and timeless, and I love wearing it on my pinky. It has a quiet power to it—it’s a statement on its own, but still easy enough to wear every day. $5,000, poppyfinch.com

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C U LTU R E / / AT ISSUE

How Do You Lose a Winning Team?

The team is winning. The bars are packed. Interest in pro soccer is at a fever pitch. So why can’t the Whitecaps turn a profit? And what happens to the city if they leave? by Graham Templeton

Downtown Vancouver residents don’t need to check a schedule or follow the team to know when the Vancouver Whitecaps are playing at BC Place. All they have to do is listen for the singing. “We’re Vancouver Whitecaps,” the fans chant to the tune of “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister. “We’re Vancouver Whitecaps... ever-more!”

Decked head-to-toe in blue and white, and led by a particularly enthusiastic fan group called the Southsiders, ’Cap supporters turn every game day into a celebration, marching together from bar to stadium, or from bar to bar. They maintain an infectious energy that regularly outshines much larger fan bases, and drives reliable, much-needed activity in the downtown core. Yes,

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the recent World Cup turned seemingly everyone into a soccer superfan, but the passion of the Whitecaps fan base burns bright whether FIFA banners are hanging up or not. “I’m often seeing a bigger following for the Whitecaps than I am for the Vancouver Canucks,” says Tyler Broers, general manager at Dublin Calling, a downtown sports bar. “It means I can guarantee shifts for my staff.” “It’s a really important part of our business,” he adds. “It’s hard to even imagine the team leaving this city.” Yet that’s exactly what could happen, according to Whitecaps management. They’ve been floating the idea

This city, and really the whole province, is showing what it means to them to keep the team in Vancouver.” -— David Ousted, former Whitecaps goalkeeper of selling the team since 2024, citing revenue shortfalls relative to other MLS clubs. The team’s management openly admits that the games are well attended and the

ALBERTART/SHUT TERSTOCK

IMAGE CREDIT

Team Spirit Fans gather in front of BC Place (opposite); Whitecap parties at Dublin Calling are a beloved tradition (above); former Whitecaps goalkeeper David Ousted remains a vocal supporter (left).

merchandise sells like hotcakes, but even last year, when the Whitecaps acquired star player Thomas Müller and came within a hair’s breadth of winning the playoffs, the prospect of a sale was casting a shadow over the festivities. Despite its achievements, the team is consistently last in the league in profitability. One of the biggest problems seems to be low income from ticket sales, with some reports claiming that the Whitecaps get as little as 12 percent of income from games played at BC Place. There have been proposals to build a new stadium partly owned

by the club, or to take over operation of BC Place on gamedays, but these ideas have yet to turn concrete. That failure to find an off-ramp within Vancouver leaves the city open to the danger of losing tens of millions in extra spending over hundreds of thousands of annual visits by non-residents. European travellers have gravitated to the city for its soccer culture but it’s the non-Vancouverite locals who bring the most prosperity into the city core. And only time will tell if Vancouver’s role hosting the World Cup this past summer will continue to bring soccer-loving tourists to town going forward. “If we were to lose the Whitecaps, we’d be losing a big part of the downtown community,” says Jane Talbot, CEO of the Downtown Vancouver

ALBERTART/SHUT TERSTOCK; PHOTO WORKS/SHUT TERSTOCK

Business Improvement Association. “We’d be losing a lot of what brings people from farther out into this part of the city.” One of the main proposals for a stadium has been to build on the PNE grounds, in Vancouver. This would be a loss to downtown, but it would leave the city with its soccer team intact—and act as a more convenient destination for fans driving in from the suburbs. Talbot has seen the level of impact the Whitecaps can represent, for downtown or anywhere else. It’s not due to single-season influxes of cash, but rather to a reliable turnout from a proudly all-weather fanbase. Followers of other teams may come and go from year to year, but Whitecaps fanatics are solid, and here to stay. That means local businesses can plan for the extra money a game will bring, and always see it paid. Beyond the reliable shifts for servers, venues can also make investments in the best possible experience: Dublin Calling, for example, has become one of the city’s hubs for Whitecaps fans, which, in Broers’s estimation, has happened because the bar more or less let fans take over the place. “When I take reservations on game nights, Whitecaps fans get priority seating,” he says. “We have a little closet for them that has all the Whitecaps flags, blankets, scarves and everything that they come in for. Every game.” The buy-in from all parties is causing frustration for the fan base, which has been vocal in its opposition to moving the team. With such a solid

foundation for business, many are questioning how it’s possible that the team could fail to make a profit. For instance, the famous 2001 loss of the city’s NBA team, the Vancouver Grizzlies, is often attributed to that team’s lack of success in its final seasons in Vancouver; however, despite the Whitecaps’ incredible performance in 2025, there was still no end to the talk of a potential sale. Fans are beginning to worry, and some are asking a distressing question: If this level of success from the team and this level of commitment from the fans can’t keep the Whitecaps in Vancouver, is there anything that could? There are, at least, ideas. “I really believe that a local ownership group could build something stronger,” says David Ousted. He’s a former Whitecaps player and the creator of a petition aimed at showing the city just how many Vancouver sports fans value the franchise. “It’s been amazing, the level of support,” he says. Within a few weeks of launching this past spring, the petition already had almost 20,000 signatures. “This city, and really the whole province, is showing what it means to them to keep the team in Vancouver.” More than the lost revenue from food, drink and parking, the real impact of a Whitecaps sale would be to rob the city of one of its few remaining sources of open, approachable collective culture. It would be a loss not just to the fans who would no longer sing, but also to the city that can no longer hear them.

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C U LTU R E / / vertical travel

Why Is My Elevator Always Broken? If the stairs aren’t an option and you’re stuck waiting for a ride down to freedom, it gives you plenty of time to wonder if elevators broke down this much in the olden days.

KNOWIT-ALL by

Stacey McLachlan illustration by

When I started this column 10 years ago, it was with the intention of addressing civic quandaries and solving the city’s mysteries, but there are only so many times you can answer whether the Girl in Wetsuit statue is single. So I’m thrilled to take

Kasimir Chupik-Hall

Got a question for Know-It-All?

stacey.mclachlan@ vanmag.com

VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

a break from explaining that she’s in a situationship with one of the A-maze-ing Laughter boys (the hot one) and instead address some of your technical engineering questions. What a great opportunity to spice things up, and to learn some fun facts along the way: for instance, did you know elevators can go up and down? This info has been a real gamechanger for me, personally. So: why are elevators in Vancouver high-rises seemingly so unreliable? When you’re pacing the hallway of the 51st floor of a Yaletown tower for 20 minutes, desperate for the lone working elevator to arrive and save you from making small talk with your strata’s most notorious filibusterer (her name is Pam), it’s only natural for the mind to start looking for someone to blame. Are modern elevators designed to fail? Did Pam tamper with the cables? Because I care as much about finding answers as I do about finding an excuse to expense a cute set of coveralls [note from accounting: stop that], I set out to go undercover as an elevator mechanic. It was time to get to the bottom (and then the top, and then the bottom again) of the issue at hand. I set my ringtone to Aerosmith’s most explicitly pro-elevator track (“Love in an Elevator,” or as it was titled for its U.K. release, “A Wee Shag in the Lift, Bruv”). Then I started what I assumed was the application process: hitting the red elevator alarm button over and over until professionals arrived. Unfortunately, it turned out that not only do

they prefer to receive resumés via LinkedIn, they also do not consider the frequent reading of Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator as a child to be useful previous experience. I changed out of my elevator mechanic cosplay coveralls and into a fresh set of journalism coveralls [from accounting: what did we just say?]. Much like an elevator has several back-up cables to prevent it from plummeting (unless it was built by Oompa-Loompas), I had a Plan B: send an email asking an elevator mechanic to write this article for me. Though I’d assumed they’d be too busy making wildly inconsistent decisions about whether the main floor of a building should be accessed with a button labelled M, G, L or 1, the official spokesperson of TK Elevators was kind enough to respond and also teach me the phrase “vertical transportation system.” (Note: if you are fluent in editorial markup lingo, you know this company name is going to wreak havoc on our proofreading department.) TK reported that, ultimately, elevator reliability over time comes down to proper use and appropriate maintenance— regardless of building height— but high-traffic environments such as busy residential towers can see thousands of trips each day, which places greater demand on equipment, and therefore can lead to more frequent repairs. So while you may look back fondly at your old low-rise apartment and its workhouse old-school ’vator, these lifts aren’t necessarily more reliable

than their modern brothers (sorry, forgot to mention: all elevators are boys). The vertical transportation system units in older, smaller buildings likely just do less work, and have probably been consistently maintained and upgraded over the years. It’s not cheap or easy to get your elevator maintained here, though—so maybe that’s why you keep getting stuck listening to Pam’s elaborate conspiracy theory about the parking garage leak at inopportune times. According to my new favourite beach read, Elevators by Stephen Smith at the Centre for Building in North America, elevators cost three times more in Canada and the U.S. than anywhere else in the world, and repair expenses in North America are 10 times what they are in Europe. This is primarily because there’s an oligopoly on elevator designs— the majority of elevators here are manufactured and maintained by the mere five companies who bother to meet the unique safety regulations of our comparatively small market. (Canada actually has the second-lowest number of elevators per capita in the modern world.) Add to that a general shortage of elevator technicians and complications with the Canadian supply chain, and it’s no wonder you feel like you’re always staring at an outof-order sign. On the plus side, haven’t you been saying how you’re trying to get more steps in? Your building’s stairwell isn’t breaking down anytime soon...

Volunteer With Us

Become a volunteer with The Salvation Army It's a great way to give back to your community. -

Serving meals Packing hampers Kettle campaign roles �omm�nity �o�ncils �

For more information contact BCinfo@salvationarmy.ca Or apply online at salvationarmy.ca/volunteer

FASHION

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IMAGE CREDIT

For those who still insist on saying Vancouver is an unfashionable city, meet six local style icons who are happy to prove you wrong.

As told to Stacey McLachlan

Photographs by Clinton Hussey

FORWARD It’s gonna be a delicious summer. Chef Chanthy Yen takes us on an emotional journey at his new upscale Cambodian-Canadian concept, Touk; we search for the city’s coolest drinks and chef-approved eats; and comfort dishes abound at an inviting new Korean restaurant. Plus, the bottles certain to make you happy during the sunniest season.

VIRANLLY LIEMENA

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Mulrain wears a silver suit from Simon’s, with earrings from Plenty and additional jewellery from Vitali. Shoes were a thrifted find from The Only.

Digital Creator

JUSTIN MULRAIN My Style

“ Bold, effortlessly polished and unique. For major occasions, you never know what to expect.”

Do you have any favourite Vancouver brands for accessories? When I first came to Vancouver, I was introduced to Mine and Yours: they have really amazing pieces. For me, it’s been a cool place to get inspired. My partner first took me there, and I was so intrigued about what they had and felt like I wanted to buy the whole store. The Cross is another place I really have had some inspiration in shopping around for some jewellery pieces. Mogano remains my staple favourite for day to day: the pieces are timeless and perfect for any occasion. What’s a favourite piece you’ve sourced recently? I recently grabbed a super cute red and blue button-up from The Only that has become an everyday staple for me as it’s very easy to dress up and dress down. What are some favourite Vancouver shops? Plenty is one of my

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favourites. I feel like there’s something chic in there for everyone. At Duer, the denim is timeless—so easy to dress up and accessorize. Any favourite spots for vintage shopping? Leo’s Clothing Supply is a new one for me, but every time I’ve gone, they have so much. What would you wear to date night? I tend to wear an all-black ensemble for date night, but throughout the summer I’ve was trying to balance with some colour. Plenty has had some short-sleeve button-up shirts that have made me feel incredible and confident ahead of date night. If there was one made-in-Vancouver clothing item you would recommend as a souvenir, what would it be? Something from either Arc’teryx or Lululemon. Those are brands that speak to the Vancouver core.

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Stylist and Costume Designer

JASON PILLAY Do you have any favourite Vancouver clothing brands? Some of my favourite local designers are Eduardo Ramos, Himikalas Pamela Baker, Alex S. Yu, Evan Clayton, Shivajothi, Bahar Kianpour and the amazing Catherine Regehr. Do you have any favourite local brands for accessories? I love accessories and a good stack. Pyrrha is timeless. Some others would include Bloodline Design and incredible local Indigenous designers like Inner Wolf and Zaleska. I also love visiting local markets and pop-up shops to discover amazing artisans. What’s a favourite piece you’ve sourced recently? I recently thrifted an Oak and Fort cream short coat from Community Thrift and Vintage, and it was the perfect find. It’s structured perfectly, and I recently wore it to dinner and received so many compliments. What are some of your favourite Vancouver shops? At Community Thrift, you never know what you’ll find. Neighbour is curated and inspiring. The Block has great brands and is always a fun shopping experience.

If you’re trying to find something special to wear to a big event, where do you go? If it’s for a client, I’ll sometimes connect with Once Twice for amazing pieces and events. For myself, I generally connect with my favourite local designers, or I’ll reach out to Canadian designers outside of Vancouver. What would you wear for grabbing a coffee with a friend? Probably vintage denim, a tank, an oversized button-up, jewellery, sunglasses, a handbag and a good pair of boots.

Pillay’s suit is Brunello Cucinelli from Mine and Yours, paired with a Ganni jacket from One of a Few and a Pink Tartan shirt. He is wearing Kate Spade earrings, rings from Inner Wolf and Pyrrha, talisman necklaces and a silver cuff from Pyrrha, a belt by Vince Camuto, eyewear from Kits and Dr. Marten boots.

What would you wear to date night? We’re giving mysteriously sexy. I like something with a romantic feel—silk, satin or a flowy top paired with tailored pants. I love jewel tones and deeper colours, finished with silver or gold jewellery. Vancouver has a reputation for being an unfashionable city. Is that true? We value comfort and functionality, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t style here. Some of the most interesting dressers are people who aren’t trying too hard. They’re embracing themselves. The city has a quiet confidence. Any advice for someone trying to find their style here? Don’t be afraid to mix high and low, luxury and vintage. Some of my favourite outfits have come from combining a designer piece with something thrifted.

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My Style

“I dress based on my mood. Fashion is storytelling. I love pieces that are bold and elevated, but also lived in, with a mix of tailoring, streetwear and thoughtful details.”

IMAGE CREDIT

How do you think living in Vancouver has influenced your style? Being surrounded by a diverse creative community and working as a fashion stylist has opened me up to embracing individuality rather than dressing for a specific scene. We live in a city where you can go from a meeting to hanging at the beach to a press event, so versatility is important.

Musician

SADÉ AWELE

Do you have any favourite Vancouver clothing brands? I’m drawn toward independent designers and custom work and I’m always keeping an eye out for emerging creatives in the city. I recently wore a piece from Lumina Eligma that I love. I have a signature jacket from Sleepless Mindz. I’ve worn unique pieces from Hazi Haus and Sara Armstrong as well. Do you have any favourite brands for jewellery? I gravitate to local boutiques like Front and Company, where they stock some of their pieces from independent and local consignors. What’s a favourite piece you’ve sourced recently? I purchased a vintage red plaid blazer from a vintage store called Leo’s Clothing Supply.

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What are some of your favourite Vancouver shops? Revival is a great boutique owned by Christina Florencio. Not only do they have signature resale pieces, they are also intentional with their space, hosting wellness events and colour analysis workshops. If you’re trying to find something special to wear to a big event, where do you go? My first call is always to a design-

Awele wears a custom dress from Thelma Trends with a skirt from Urban Revivo. Her boots are from a Montreal shop called L’Interval.

er or a tailor. For big moments— a show, a red carpet, a stage— I want something that was built with my body and my vision in mind. If I’m browsing, I’m looking for independent designers, locally or online, who are doing something that feels original. Any favourite spots for vintage shopping? There are so many vintage gems out here—just walk on Main Street! Some of my favourites in the city are Mintage Mall, Woo Vintage Clothing, Wardrobe on Main and Gore Street Vintage. What would you wear to a date night? Something that makes me feel powerful and feminine at the same time. A strong silhouette— maybe a wrap dress, a tailored piece, something with an interesting detail and complementary jewellery. I like looking like I made an effort without trying too hard. Any advice for someone trying to find their style here? Don’t rely on the big commercial strips. The best finds in this city come from exploring—the smaller neighbourhoods, the pop-ups, the independent makers. And if you have a vision for what you want to wear, find someone who can build it for you. Vancouver has the talent. You just have to look for it.

My Style

“It sits somewhere between structured elegance and cultural expression. I love a strong silhouette, rich textures and pieces that feel like they were made specifically for me.” VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

My Style

“ It evolves every day, but it’s still deeply rooted in sci-fi, outdoor technical, high-fashion-core.”

Bloedorn is wearing Oakley sunglasses and Turkish earrings. Her shawl is by Rafael Batista and and Hannah Beeker Caballero, and her kimono is by Snow Peaks, sourced from Haven. The pants are a Ukrainian designer, paired with boots from Roa Hiking, found at Neighbour.

Content Creator

SABRINA BLOEDORN 32

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What’s a favourite piece you’ve sourced recently? I recently got some vintage athletic wear from two girls in Vancouver: they have a brand called Archive Athletics where they source pieces from all over and honestly just have the most insane vintage athletic apparel. Do you have any favourite Vancouver clothing brands? The brand Surface Athletic has been on my mind a lot lately. I love their pieces and how technical their swimsuits are. Archive Athletics, Adhere To, Colin Meredith and Soh Studios are such amazing outdoor apparel creators. If I had to pick another one in the Pacific Northwest region, it would be Gnuhr. The design is so futuristic and the company’s digital creative is out-there in the best way. What are some of your favourite Vancouver shops? Siista has the best selection of

elevated basics and cool girl looks. Haven is excellent for outdoor gear. They have the best selection and their store has such a cool vibe—I wish they opened a coffee shop or something attached to it. I also love Woven. It’s a vintage shop that has cool designer goods. I just really love all the pieces they source. If you were trying to find something really special to wear to a big event, where would you search? I would head over to either Woven or Leisure Center. They both have new or vintage designer pieces; so many stand-out moments. What would you wear for grabbing a coffee? Free People jeans or pants. I have way too many of them, but these are such staples for when I’m not hiking. They have the best silhouette and fabric. I’d top that off with some kind of Gore-Tex shell or windbreaker. And maybe my Adidas x Song for the Mute taekwondo shoes—so comfy. What would you wear to date night? To be honest, I love a diva moment, which should make sense since all my hiking ’fits are very over the top and dramatic. I would wear my Jean Paul Gaultier jeans, Fidan Novruzova boot sandals and some cute tops from Siista.

LUIS VALDIZON

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How do you think living in Vancouver has influenced your style? I think moving away from my small town in Ontario (1,200 people, to be exact) has helped me see more people be themselves and find their own personal style. I think because of that I have really come more out of my shell living in Vancouver.

Optician and Owner, The Optical Boutique

SUE RANDHAWA Do you have any favourite local clothing brands? Alex S. Yu and Evan Clayton are two of my favourite Vancouver-based designers. Their evolution has been amazing to watch. Every collection reflects a sense of artistry, refinement and vision.

Randhawa’s Karen Walker glasses came from her own store, The Optical Boutique; the shirt is made from Marc Jacobs fabric sourced in New York, while the Cadill pants were found at Dover Street Market. Her shoes are a New York brand, Tibi.

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My Style

“Architectural, artistic and intentional. I gravitate toward independently designed pieces with strong lines, interesting shapes and thoughtful craftsmanship rather than trends. Colour plays a huge role in how I dress. ”

What’s a favourite piece you’ve sourced recently? I have two pieces that I relish. I scored a La DoubleJ two-piece printed velvet matching set from Boboli recently that I absolutely love, and my cape from Cape de Coeur. For rainwear, no one does it better than Cape’s Bettina Mueller Reichl. She understands the technical aspect of waterproof fabric and produces designs that are powerful and bold. What are some of your favourite Vancouver shops? The collections that are carried at Gravity Pope are always chosen with thought and intention. The commitment to independent designers always impresses me. The Untold Chapter is my most recent discovery. Many of the pieces play with volume and proportion, both of which I love. Bacci’s is a longtime favourite. Andrea has an exceptional eye for seeking out independently designed collections that stand the test of time. My approach to fashion has become more intentional over time. I’m drawn to pieces with strong design and lasting relevance. I want

clothing that can be worn, restyled and appreciated for years rather than reserved for a single occasion. Boboli next door is such a treat to visit too, with emerging designers alongside established names. Where would you search for something special for a big event? Wardrobe Apparel has a fantastic eye for beautifully made elegant collections. Canadian designer Greta Constantine has been a part of the story from the beginning and remains one of my personal favourites. Any favourite spots for vintage hunting? Some of my favourite pieces are my vintage finds and Turnabout is one of my favourite spots for vintage shopping; Style Reissue is a close second. Lily and Kam are a great team that really do a fantastic job of buying and authenticating. Vancouver has a reputation for being an unfashionable city. Is that true? Absolutely not. Having worked in fashion retail as an optician for more than 35 years, I’ve seen firsthand that Vancouver is full of people who appreciate design, craftsmanship and self-expression. They come from every age group and every walk of life. Fashion here may be quieter than in some cities, but it’s no less vibrant.

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Lucila’s shirt, hat, pants and socks are all Polo Ralph Lauren. His shoes, though, are Fluevog.

My Style

JULIAN LUCILA How do you think living here has influenced your style? Vancouver is where I learned about street dance and hip hop culture. The community is small here; however, it’s full of people who embody what it means to be your authentic self. My mentors preach about being genuine, and they emphasize that there’s space for everyone to exist in the community. This doesn’t just stop in dance and music; this bleeds into how you represent yourself with what you wear. Do you have any favourite Vancouver clothing brands? I love John Fluevog. The designs are colourful, bold and unique. The style reminds me of pieces worn in the Soul Train era. 34

What’s a favourite piece you’ve sourced recently? The Rasa fedora from Claudia Schulz. I bought it from a popup in Gastown. I love its unique design and exceptional quality. Where would you search for a special event outfit? I have yet to do it, but I do want a suit made by Modernize Tailors. I love the history of the business and the quality of the clothes that they make. Any favourite spots for vintage shopping? Vintage Sponsor. I love the curation of their selection, and it helps that the owner appreciates Ralph Lauren. I also love to browse Wildlife Thrift and Stoxx Vintage.

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What would you wear for grabbing a coffee? Polo Ralph Lauren, head to toe. If there was one made-in-Vancouver clothing item to bring home as a souvenir, what would it be? Vancity Originals “UnDMC” shirt has become synonymous with the city. The shirt comes from a streetwear store called Vancity Originals Brand on Hornby Street (formerly Dipt). I love how, over the years, they’ve incorporated designs that commemorate local sports teams, iconic businesses and Indigenous designers. Now, when I travel and meet different dance communities, I bring one of those shirts as a souvenir from the city.

Any advice for someone trying to find their style? It’s not necessarily a clothing store, but I highly recommend checking out Beat Street Records on Hastings and Richards. It’s a store that has a vast vinyl collection of hip hop, funk and soul. As a dancer, music is a huge part of my life and has become symbiotic with how I dress. When I think about different silhouettes of clothing, I think about the era of music that it belongs to. When I think about colour palettes in putting an outfit together, I think about how the colours of album covers interact and go together. I come to this store because it reminds me of how I fell in love with music in the first place.

IMAGE CREDIT

Dancer

“My style is an extension of my personality and a reflection of my influences in life. It’s bold, preppy and, of course, funky.”

S P O N S O R E D

R E P O R T

GET ON BOARD At St. Michaels University School in Victoria, success means more than just grades in a classroom.

oarding school can be a formative experience for young people. It builds character and teaches students invaluable life skills and habits that will prepare them for the often-challenging post-secondary transition period. According to a 2025 report from the Association of Boarding Schools, boarding school students and alumni find their work more engaging, value learning more and feel more successful in school and life. St. Michaels University School (SMUS) in Victoria offers the ultimate university preparation experience, both in its academic programming and premium boarding. For students in grades 9 through 12, SMUS represents an ideal balance: a globally minded, university-preparatory education with Advanced Placement classes, paired with a supportive residential experience that fosters independence, leadership and global perspective.

“SMUS is proud to find that balance between global perspective and local connection,” says Keith Driscoll, director of boarding and student life at SMUS. “Our community brings together students from around the world. We are also a community deeply rooted in Victoria, which creates an environment that feels both expansive and grounded.” THE VALUE OF BOARDING At the heart of the SMUS experience is its premium boarding environment. And, contrary to the preconceived ideas that are sometimes attached to boarding school, Driscoll notes that boarding students at SMUS experience a strong sense of community built on trust and intentional care. “We focus on developing self-reliance, not isolation,” says Driscoll. “Students learn to navigate life while understanding they are part of a supportive, connected community.” At SMUS, students benefit from small class sizes, personalized guidance and a strong sense of community. “House parents at SMUS are highly trained professionals, and students form meaningful connections with a consistent group of adults who know them well,” says Driscoll. “At the same time, boarding at SMUS is designed to feel like a real teenage experience,” he continues. “Students have

the freedom to explore the city, spend time with friends and make choices about how they use their time, while supported by a clear structure and a caring adult network.” MAKING BOARDING ACCESSIBLE Boarding schools are not exclusively for the wealthy. SMUS is making efforts to lower the financial barriers of boarding school through scholarships and financial aid. Last year, more than 20 percent of the SMUS student body received financial aid. SMUS’s The Best School Year Ever contest, for example, offers prospective students the opportunity to enter to win a full or partial scholarship to board at SMUS for the 2027-28 school year. “The Best School Year Ever contest opens the door for students who may not otherwise consider a boarding experience like SMUS,” says Driscoll. “It removes financial barriers and focuses on potential, passion and what a student can contribute, not just academics.” The contest opens in September 2026 for students in North America entering grades 9 to 12 in September 2027. The contest closes in December 2026. “It is also about possibility,” he concludes. “Students who are selected gain access to an environment where they can explore their strengths and carve out their own path, because at SMUS there is not just one definition of success.”

Learn more about boarding at SMUS at smus.ca/boarding. Learn more about The Best School Year Ever contest at bestschoolyearever.ca. Connect on:

@yoursmus |

@St. Michaels University School

C REATED BY CANADA WIDE MEDIA IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ST. MIC HAELS U NIVERS ITY S C HO OL

Small

WONDERS What does it take to create a big impact in a small space? Vancouver’s interior designers know. We tapped four of our faves to share the storage secrets and small-space hacks that have infused their recent projects with impressive functionality. Whether it’s a compact Yaletown apartment or a cozy heritage home, these are spaces that punch above their weight—er, square footage.

IMAGE CREDIT

by Stacey McLachlan

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The Kitsilano Refresh It’s not that there was anything specifically wrong with this 1,800-square-foot builder-spec home in Kitsilano: it just wasn’t quite right for the family who lived here. So in came Ami McKay, principal of Pure Design Inc., to give the narrow house a more personal touch. “It wasn’t a renovation, it was a refresh,” she says. “We wanted to make it super functional with no wasted space, and lots of texture to help it feel warm and homey.” With the addition of tons of sneaky storage and layers of creams and whites, she did just that. JANIS NICOL AY

1 Add cabinets wherever you can. Next to the stovetop, McKay installed a super-narrow cabinet perpendicular to the dish storage—just the right dimensions for keeping spices and bottles of oil within reach for cooking. A nook that was once home to just a wine fridge became even more functional after McKay designed cabinets, shelving and a countertop around it.

2 Tuck countertop appliances out of sight. An appliance garage built into the oak millwork kitchen cabinets makes room for the toaster and blender and helps keep countertops clear. 3 Call in the pros. “My secret weapon is Sherry Borsheim, a professional organizer I’ve been working with for 25 years,” says McKay, who uses Borsheim to help manage her own home. “Your quality of life goes up when someone really figures out how to make things efficient.”

4 Blow out the closets. There’s often dead space at the top of the closet, thanks to the bulkhead above a standard-sized door. Blow it out and go for full-height storage instead, with custom cabinetry that goes right to the ceiling—here, McKay integrated drawers as well.

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Small Wonders

The Curated Kitchen Maximizing the functionality of a kitchen can be a trick at the best of times: creating one designed for both everyday cooking and frequent hosting offered double the challenge for designer Jeffrey Liu (principal of Jeffrey Liu Studio), who tackled the renovation of this 870-square-foot Fairview condo for a creative couple. “Because the homeowners love to entertain, the new design needed to function as both an efficient workspace and a serving surface for tapas and charcuterie,” he explains. 38

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1 Rethink appliance placement. Relocating the fridge allowed Liu to create a larger working surface next to the cooktop, improving workflow. It also revealed some dead space that had been hidden behind the old refrigerator: that cavity became a niche for displaying the homeowners’ glassware and ceramics, and provided a dedicated station for small appliances, keeping the counters clean and uncluttered.

the ensuite. Deep green cabinetry (that’s Sherwin-Williams’s Roycroft Bottle Green) balances out the weight and drama of the stone.

2 Don’t be afraid to be bold.

4 Use both sides of the island. A breakfast bar is nice and all, but eating side-by-side isn’t always ideal. Lui extended the width of the island to create a cantilevered countertop on one end, opening up the walkway and allowing the homeowners to face one another (or their frequent guests!) while dining. Liu also increased the depth, adding cabinetry on the backside for liquor and glassware.

If you love neutrals, great! But don’t fear rich colour or wild patterns in a small space. “The homeowners wanted to showcase some impressive stonework throughout,” says Liu. He used one slab of Concrete Gris from Westcoast Granite to generously clad the backsplash (and wrap the sides and back wall return) and chose Verde Alpi marble as a defining feature of

3 Play with scale and volume. A substantial four-inch-thick quartz countertop tops the island and anchors the space, while the fullheight pantry—custom millwork from D3 Custom Cabinets—is detailed with oversized trim and handles.

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Small Wonders

4 1

3 Light it up. You’ll find floating cabinetry throughout this condo (the bathroom vanity, the bedroom dresser), all with LED underlighting. This, says Kassam, is key: “You can’t just lift things off the floor, you need illumination. This helps to accentuate the look and feel of floor space below to visually create the illusion of more space.”

The Bold Bachelor Pad Designer Aleem Kassam (principal and founder of Kalu by Kassam) would never declare one client to be his favourite— but, objectively speaking, wouldn’t a homeowner who gave carte blanche for a makeover of their 2006 Yaletown loft be the dream? All the owner of this 890-square-foot condo asked was that Kassam incorporate his art collection. Otherwise, the designer was simply invited to think outside the box. “It was a fun place to start,” Kassam laughs. 40

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1 Have dinner around an oval table. In addition to the built-in bench in the dining room (with storage drawers underneath, obviously), Kassam created more space with his choice of table shape. “It’s another visual cue that allows the eye to flow around the space.” Extra shelving flanks the banquette. 2 Go right to the ceiling. The five-by-eight-foot flex space was transformed into an office that feels surprisingly spacious thanks to a visual trick. “We brought the millwork right up to the ceiling to create a visual expanse,” says Kassam. (The panelling also conceals a bulky HVAC unit.) The integrated desk and shelving is slightly narrower than off-the-shelf models (20 inches instead of the standard 24 to 30), providing room to breathe without sacrificing function. Open shelving prevents the space from feeling closed in, and a light fixture from Restoration Hardware brings a little hint of glamour.

4 Combine components in the bathroom. To pack all the necessary elements into the ensuite—the full-sized soaker tub, the linen cabinet, the shower, the vanity—Kassam considered the room from a fresh perspective: “Instead of looking at designing for separate functions, we combined everything,” explains the designer. By conjoining the millwork and layering the vanity into the tub surround, all the functions visually meld into one and create a cohesive, compact space. A bronzed mirror on the back of the door creates a wow moment that also helps the room feel more expansive. 5 Build function at the front door. The entryway in the original iteration of the space was vastly underutilized—until Kassam added a custom white oak veneer millwork piece with a flip-down door, shelving and counterspace for dropping keys, mail and whatever else. “It’s the landing area,” he says. 6 The hallway can be a highlight. “There’s a lot of hallway here,” says Kassam. He turned the expanse into a highlight by adding a vibrant rainforest wallpaper mural from Rebel Walls that nods to the homeowner’s Brazilian heritage. All the closets are push-toopen, which means no hardware (and no visual interruptions). On hallway’s other wall, custom trim adds depth and interest. The floorboards form a chevron pattern to create the illusion of movement.

PROVOKE STUDIOS

3 4

frame and runs the length of the bathroom to sneak in some extra storage, without taking away floor space. 4 Anything can be seating. Nordstrom loves to pick or build furniture that is seat height and multi-functional. “Things like credenzas, especially in small spaces, are great at an 18-inch height because if you have spillover, people can sit there,” says the designer.

The Heritage Makeover The owners of this cozy, century-old character house in Kensington-Cedar Cottage endured the cramped layout for years as they raised their little girl— but eventually enough was enough. “The rooms were really segmented and closed off,” explains interior designer Jenalee Nordstrom (of Schédio Spaces), who took on the renovation project with glee. “We wanted to bring in full sightlines and allow the light to pull through.” The reno went beyond knocking down a few walls in the 1,050-square-foot home, of course— Nordstrom rebuilt with a focus on creative storage. “People live full lives and I want to help them have all the things they need to live those full lives,” says the designer. JANIS NICOL AY

1 Weird nooks are an opportunity for more shelving. Here in the front hall, the shelves carry on past the wall’s edge to fill an awkward corner. “If you have a weird wall jut-out bit, use that to your advantage and get more depth for your shelves in certain spots,” says Nordstrom. 2 Go custom in the entryway. A built-in bench will have the perfect dimensions for your front hall—and can accommodate storage underneath, too. 3 Build in the niches you need.

The depth of a wall is anywhere from four to six inches—just the right size for storing toilet paper, spare shampoo or other toiletries. Nordstrom designed a tiled niche that juts in between the wall

5 Not all storage is created equal. There used to be a spooky crawl space under the stairs, but the dark, cavernous area wasn’t being optimized. Now, a built-in countertop with drawers and cabinetry is a highly functional mini bar. 6 Skip the bulky media cabinet. Wall-mounting your TV is key to avoiding visual clutter in the living room. Here, Nordstrom ran a conduit behind the wall to connect the screen to the outlet and electronics below. “There’s no heavy cabinet on top. Everything’s tucked away and seamless.” 7 Drawers are king. “Drawers give you far better access to items in the back than a cabinet with doors,” stresses Nordstrom. “They allow you to use a vanity much more efficiently than if you’re awkwardly trying to reach to the back and bottom.”

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Made in Vancouver Some prominent pieces and people in Vancouver’s booming design scene (top to bottom, left to right): Ben Barber of Ben Barber Studio; Bocci lights; Deagan McDonald of Origins; side table by New Format Studio; Celina Dalrymple and Najeeb Dawary of Ffabb Home; chair by Hinterland; Jeff Martin of Jeff Martin Joinery; vase by Kate Metten; and Henry Norris of New Format Studio.

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IN THE MAKING

by SARA HAROWITZ portraits by

POOYA NABEI

& CARLO RICCI

Vancouver’s furniture and product designers are earning international acclaim— but at home, they’re still waiting for their moment in the spotlight. Becki Chan knows talent when she sees it, and when it came to Vancouver’s design community, she sees a lot of it. The problem, in her eyes, was that people outside of the design world weren’t properly aware of the treasures hiding within their own city. “Vancouver’s furniture and product design scene is deeply talented and quietly ambitious. There’s a strong relationship to craft, local materials, sustainable practice and interdisciplinary thinking,” she says. “Many makers here are producing work that belongs on a global stage, but the scene can still feel fragmented because there aren’t enough public platforms that help people discover, understand and support it locally.” She set out to change that with Design Vancouver Festival, which debuted in 2024 and aims to make the design scene more accessible through city-wide open houses, pop-ups and collaborations. (Mark your calendars: this year’s festival takes place from September 17 to 27.) “We bring together designers across disciplines, design enthusiasts and supporters of the creative sector to grow public understanding and strengthen connections across the city,” says Chan, who also produces PechaKucha Vancouver. “It’s also an inclusive platform where emerging and established talent show up side by side. The impact goes beyond sales: awareness, new networks, learning, collaboration and cultural visibility. That’s part of what makes a design city.” Vancouver is many types of city. An outdoorsy city. A beautiful city. A laidback city. A gritty city. An Arc’teryx-obsessed city. But a design city? Many would likely shake

their head at the notion. Those who look a little closer, though, will see that Vancouver is on the precipice of coming into its own as a producer of world-class furniture and product design. The rest of the world already views us this way, and it’s about time we caught on. “We have such a vibrant and strong design community here, especially in the interiors realm: furniture, fixtures, lighting,” says Riley McFerrin of Vancouver-based furniture studio Hinterland Design. “When so many of us travel abroad to do trade shows either in the States or Europe or even Asia, you can really see that people outside of Vancouver are very aware in the industry that we have so much good stuff here.” And that international recognition isn’t just a nice boost for the local ego: for many Vancouver design brands, it’s a crucial part of their business. While of course it’s natural for most companies to want to scale into bigger markets, in the case of the city’s independent design ventures, seeking customers outside of Vancouver is often the only way to survive. “It’s hard, for sure,” says Kaly Ryan, who founded Capella Design, a Vancouverbased accessible furniture and product design company, in 2022. “I think a lot of people who have found success have the ability to broaden their market and sell into other markets.” When Henry Norris began his luxury furniture brand New Format Studio in Vancouver in 2016, he focused on marketing to the local market—but soon realized that he needed more. “When I started making furniture, I did local shows and talked to local designers,” he says. “I definitely sold some pieces, but it wasn’t enough to build a studio on; there

weren’t enough clients here that I could find at the time.” Inspired by local brands like lighting design company Bocci, he began to branch out into other cities and countries. “I looked around and saw contemporaries and friends and people that were making amazing work, and they were doing trade shows in New York, and they were flying to other cities and having meetings with different designers,” he recalls. “I was like, ‘Okay, well, I can do that, too.’ It became possible.” Norris says that his customer base fluctuates from year to year, with the local market making up anywhere from 25 to 75 percent of his business. In his eyes, the need for high-end furniture and product design companies to seek customers outside of Vancouver is a simple matter of numbers. “I think it’s mostly about volume: if you make a product that’s somewhat for a niche, the reality is that there’s only going to be a certain percentage of buyers out of the whole population,” he explains. “If you can sell one product to every 100,000 people, then in Vancouver, if there are three million people here now, you can basically sell 40 a year.” But if a company needs to sell 200 pieces to make their business viable, he says, they’ll have to expand into larger customer pools, where they have a bigger chance of making a sale. Chan agrees: “In larger markets, there are often more collectors, more press infrastructure and a stronger buying culture around independent design.” There’s also Vancouver’s ever-present cost of living to factor in: salaries haven’t caught up to the rising prices of homes, groceries and literally everything else. For a

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In the Making

lot of the people who might want to support a local design company, spending upward of $5,000 on one table isn’t financially possible. “It could just be that there’s a handful of very wealthy people in the city, and then there’s the rest of us,” acknowledges McFerrin. “And the rest of us literally cannot afford to buy sustainably made, well-designed products.” Still, Vancouver—and Canada as a whole— does seem to suffer from a bit of a pride problem. Maybe it’s our proximity to the U.S., but at times it feels like we only love our talent once it’s broken big elsewhere. “Historically,” says McFerrin, “people have always said that to be well known in Vancouver, you first have to be well known somewhere else.” That’s starting to change (#elbowsup!), especially thanks to initiatives like Design Vancouver Festival. By making local design more accessible to those outside the industry, the festival is casting a spotlight on the skill we have right here at home. “Vancouver has the makers, but fewer established pathways that connect the public to contemporary furniture and product design,” says Chan. “We need to make local design easier to discover and easier to trust. People support what they can see, experience and connect with. Open studios and public programs help because they take design out of a photo online and place it in real spaces with real people. We also need more local champions: retailers, developers, hospitality and institutions that commission local work and normalize it as part of how Vancouver lives.” There is work still to be done in order for Vancouver to fully recognize its place on the global design stage. But Norris thinks we’re on the right path. “We do sell more pieces locally now than we used to,” he says. “I also see that, from the design community side, people are ambitious, and they’re making great work and trying to get it recognized, and trying to have different shows and open galleries. There’s energy around it.” Considering that Vancouver is still a relatively young city, maybe these are just natural growing pains. It’s easy to complain here, but, for his part, Norris chooses optimism. “My take on the whole situation,” he says, “is that I think everyone’s doing a great job.”

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Start Here Local designers to put on your radar.

Lakaz Studio Cheerful home accessories crafted in colourful resin.

Jeff Martin Joinery

Ben Barber Studio

New-age furniture for the art obsessed.

Furniture and sculpture using materials such as granite, steel and brass.

Salish Blanket Co Large-scale textiles made with traditional Salish weaving techniques.

Christian Woo Contemporary furnishings with a rebellious edge.

Origins

Sfossils

Studio Heidle

Ffabb

Woodworked objets in the form of accessory bowls and hanging sculptures.

Modern lighting and furniture spanning metal, enamel, ceramics and glass.

Wooden furniture with a focus on smooth, organic lines.

Contemporary upholstered furniture, including sofas, armchairs and bed frames.

Lock and Mortice

Nathalee Paolinelli

A-N-D

Form and Function

Minimalist wooden furniture, from dining chairs to coffee tables.

Glazed ceramic pieces, such as plates and bowls, in interesting shapes.

Modern lighting in unique silhouettes.

Residential furnishings, including bed frames and upholstered chairs.

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Available exclusively in natural food stores.

THE WORLD FOR SAIL For three days, I lived aboard The World, the first luxury residential yacht of its kind, where the ultra-rich share a floating neighbourhood, a packed social calendar and surprisingly strict opinions about jeans. By Kerri Donaldson

The first thing The World takes from me is my passport. At check-in, a crew member files it with those of every other passenger on board for this leg. My identity is not gone, exactly. It’s safely organized behind reception, presumably alphabetically. Over three nights, I am travelling from Vancouver to Ketchikan, Alaska, aboard a private residential yacht. Not a boat. Not a cruise. Those words are forbidden here.

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When I ask the difference, I’m told that boats pull things. I mention tugboats before realizing that the ship’s status is not up for debate (even if my sense of humour might be). We respect the ship. And, fair enough. The World contains 165 privately owned homes, and I am a guest. Residents know one another and have been notified of my arrival. I am the outsider—the

COURTESY OF THE WORLD

one who has already committed the conversational equivalent of wearing shoes on the carpet. I shelve the jokes. I’m in uncharted waters, after all, and have no intention of rocking the boat (or ship). I have been given Residence 634. I am a resident now. Or at least I have a key card. Canadian customs delays boarding, leaving the actual residents lined up outside their homes at Canada Place. They are annoyed in the specific way condo owners might get annoyed if they were locked out of their lobby. That lobby just happens to be attached to a 196-metre luxury yacht. It is 2026 in Vancouver, where housing anxiety is practically required civic small talk. The ship carries roughly 150 to 200 residents and guests, supported by about 300 crew members. Unit resales run from US$3.5 million to US$15 million. A boatload of money. Sorry. Shipload. The deck plan reads like a narrow town: restaurants, bars, a theatre, library, spa, gym, pools, poker room, tennis court and

Bali beds. The homes, owners and more than 15,000 bottles of wine keep moving. Residence 634 is an ocean studio with a kitchenette, Bulgari toiletries and a minibar stocked with Perrier, champagne and pop. I take a Coke. Within hours, another appears. I never see anyone replace it. My housekeeping team corrals my clothes into piles. Fresh bedding, towels and more Cokes appear. I never ask, and I rarely see the people who are doing this work. They run a tight ship. An “Adriatic sea sponge” waits beside my sink. At first sight I have no idea what that is but within three days, I’m no longer sure how I survived without it. This World is starting to feel normal. Still, no amenity compares with the ever-changing view. Then fog rolls in and becomes the talk of the ship: the one thing money still cannot control. Weather remains the great economic equalizer. That night, I wear my sophisticated jeans to East (one of the many restaurants aboard the ship), where the dress code is

smart casual and the menu leans PanAsian. A wooden boat arrives carrying sushi and sashimi. This “b” word is permitted. Fresh salmon follows, along with a spicy lemonade cocktail and the perfect red wine selected by the ship’s sommelier. At Fredy’s Deli Café, The World’s food and beverage team explains how it keeps a floating enclave of the ultra-rich fed as it circles the globe, timing deliveries of fruit, specialty imports and wine to ports worldwide. The logistics could send any supply-chain algorithm into an existential crisis, though the real crisis here is clearly running out of wine. The next morning, pancakes, freshly squeezed orange juice, a latte and American maple syrup materialize at my door, the logistics behind their arrival as invisible to me as the whales I scan for from my private balcony. I must look like I’m starring in my own Freedom 55 commercial, living my best retirement life, until the wind sends my pancakes and me back indoors.

Ahoy, There Guests are welcome to join for excursions via invite only—so if you want to ride along without buying a place, try making friends with the next World resident you meet.

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THE WORLD FOR SAIL

The nine-page in-residence menu runs from chia pudding to late-night pizza and caviar. At 2 a.m., a single call can summon a US$54 striploin, a US$10 hot dog or half a kilogram of Imperial Beluga Hybrid caviar for US$3,480. Extreme wealth means no craving is too unreasonable to indulge. I think I’m home. Never mind. The printed dress code for the ship begins “This is our Home,” then explains what may be worn in that home, venue by venue. Even casual clothes must suit an “upscale, country club atmosphere.” There are indoor hat rules and designated bathrobe routes to the spa. I’ve never known a home to have a dress code. I hate choosing clothes even on a normal day, and this policy reveals several exciting new ways for me to be wrong. The handout uses the word “casual” a lot for a dress code that feels anything but. Perhaps the rich fear frayed denim. All I know is that I will never be able to fully relax considering how many jeans I’ve brought aboard. I swear, somehow they can tell. Most residents favour a kind of quietluxury MEC look, ready for the boardroom or bocce. A few flamboyant older women sweep through in bright designer outfits and feathers, dressed for their own World. The crowd, at least those I encounter, skews older and American, mostly couples, with a handful of younger families. The

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All Aboard

kids have impressively niche World residents have access to all the interests, like birding, along amenities of an on-land with the composure of tiny neighbourhood, from dining options to tennis accountants. Then there are courts to grocery stores— a few older single women, too, plus bucket list excursions playing mahjong, booking at every destination. massages and living their best ship life. Good for them. Transactions are largely invisible. I order a coffee at Rocky theme. Three of us pedal nowhere Fredy’s, receive what may be the best latte while the ship does the actual moving. I have ever had, and simply walk away. Then I surrender my laptop shoulders No card. No tip prompt. No moment of to a Thai massage in a room with heated wondering whether 18 percent is now rude. floors. It’s exhilarating, although possibly While I’m inside the spa, everyone only to me. else sees orcas. This is not the yacht party you might Everyone knew me as press before I picture. By 10 p.m., much of the ship is even set foot on the ship. Three days is quiet. It feels less like Below Deck and not long enough to tell what is typical more like an extremely well-funded and what is being put on for my benefit. retirement community. I’m their guest, after all. I haven’t I take my first-ever spin class to earned the neighbourhood gossip. I’m Tabata remixes of “Despacito” and the also about to write about them.

COURTESY OF THE WORLD

By day three, however, routine settles in and I’m starting to feel like a resident of The World myself. I know which dining room has the best caviar selection. I know which elevator reaches the spa. The corridors still look identical and the spiral staircase reliably produces an emotional spiral of its own, but the towels refresh, the minibar replenishes and my needs have their own extensions. I could get used to this, I think, before realizing I already have. But inconvenience is part of travel’s texture. Things like getting lost, choosing

a bad hotel, fighting kids in the back of a packed-to-the-brim Subaru—that’s the zest. Aboard The World, spontaneity is usually accompanied by a strict departure time and, presumably, a smart-casual dress code. It feels, dare I say, corporate. By night, I’m alone at sea among people with access to almost everything, missing my own people and the messy world where not every surface has been polished into submission. Back in Vancouver, finding and keeping a home can consume most of a person’s money and attention. Here, home moves with you, and every inconvenience is met with someone whose job is to make it disappear. Perhaps the ship’s hardest task is not keeping the fresh fruit stocked, but instead creating a sense of home. More than that, a sense of community. The World comes close. Residents share whale sightings, save seats at dinner and recognize one another in the halls. But your neighbours are either fellow owners or

people employed to make your life easier. Socializing can easily slide into networking because home is also an investment. One that depreciates like a car. Even if it’s a car that’s constantly on the road and loaded with billionaires and wine. The privilege is undeniable: seeing the planet without leaving home, with your pillow and a full wine glass waiting. I spend my last night in a Bali bed alone, staring off into the night sky. Once again, the fog steals my starry view and reminds me I can’t always get what I want, despite what my experience is telling me on this ship. Still, it’s breathtaking. The part that feels most real aboard The World, however, is the part that can’t be purchased: someone remembering your name, saving you a seat and texting when the whales appear, without it being in their job description. That is the world I want to live on. That, and unlimited Cokes. Don’t get me wrong: I would still gladly move aboard The World if someone wanted to float me the down payment. Sociopolitical concerns can quickly be smoothed away, after all, by the arrival of fresh towels and an unending chain of caffeinated sodas.

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From the editors of

magazine

LOVE BY DESIGN When two architectural designers plan a wedding, the details are both deliberate and delightful.

by CAROLINE MITCHELL

photographs by MASON NEUFELD

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SCREEN TIME Korean tradition says that the byeongpung defines the ceremonial space; they are usually decorated with symbols of longevity and prosperity. Kim and Fernando put their own spin on those symbols: to represent cranes, they filled the screen’s openings with bird of paradise flowers; a rich, warm stain for the wood is representative of the sun. (Though the byeongpung’s panels are usually paper or silk, they built the full structure from wood as a nod to the symbol of the pine tree.)

IN BLOOM Kim wanted to work with florist La Bomba before she’d even met Fernando. “That was the first phone call I made when we got engaged, before the venue, before anything,” she says. Funnily enough, the floral shop was actually right down the street from Fernando’s place when they were newly dating, so the first bouquet he ever got Kim was from there.

at Kim and Nick Fernando first met as students at UBC’s architecture school. While Fernando has taken his education into a job as an architectural designer and Kim works in interiors, they did recently collaborate on one major work: their wedding. “It became our project for a while,” Kim laughs. Unsurprisingly, the wedding plan started visually, with the couple integrating nods to their respective heritages—Kim is half Korean, while Fernando’s family is from Sri Lanka and Austria. The centrepiece of the ceremony, for instance, was a modernized version of the Korean byeongpung screen, which they built from birch and brass. The vibrant orange bird of paradise florals nod to the colours of the Sri Lankan tropics. Both the ceremony and reception took place at Koerner’s Pub: appropriate, given that their love story began on the UBC campus. “We can’t agree on whether we actually met there,” says Kim, “but we had a lot of good memories there.” Plus, the multi-level outdoor space allowed the 100-person party to be neatly segmented into ceremony, dinner and dancing. “We were able to choreograph people moving from space to space. As designers, we had so much fun with that.” Ah, the romance of user-experience design. It was a day full of moments to remember. Kim and Fernando were showered with rice-paper confetti after the ceremony; photographer Mason Neufeld snapped gorgeous party pics of guests on the dance floor in front of an artfully lit bamboo screen. And, a year later, one big reminder of the festivities is present in the couple’s everyday life— not only does Kim now make and sell custom byeongpung screens as part of her design studio’s furniture collection, her own wedding screen takes pride of place in their West End living room. “It’s my Zoom background,” laughs Kim.

SUITING UP Fernando had an amazing experience with Modernize Tailors in Chinatown. “They were bespoke from start to finish,” says Kim. “He’s a designer, he’s detail-oriented, and he was able to choose every last button. He loved it.” Modernize made his shirt as well.

PLAYING DRESS UP Kim wore a gown from Toronto label Former Girlfriend. “I have an art history background and it reminded me of so many romantic paintings,” says Kim. Her tailor, Joanna Delaney, made an alterations so the dress could convert into party-mode during the reception: the skirt clipped up into an asymmetrical pouf. Delaney also made the veil. Kim’s reception gloves were from Etsy; her gold shoes were Reformation.

c PARTY PEOPLE The couple hosted friends for a beach barbecue at Jericho the night before the wedding. The wedding party was given a colour palette and left to their own devices. “Luckily, they all have great taste. I was pretty hands off,” says Kim.

c BEDAZZLED The couple took a pre-wedding trip to Sri Lanka, and that’s where Kim sourced her necklace for the ceremony. (For the reception, she swapped in a piece from Vancouver designer Wolf Circus.) Kim’s gorgeous green engagement ring was designed by Fernando and crafted by Liane Vaz; her wedding band came from Vancouver’s Sital Jansson.

TOP TABLES Venues at UBC all use on-campus catering (except for dessert), so the couple didn’t have a lot of options there; luckily, they were extremely impressed with the food—and added tiramisu from True Confections in chic coup glasses. Kim and Fernando did have control over the tablescapes. La Bomba suggested displaying the flowers sticking out of blocks of raw clay for a dramatic centrepiece. (Post-wedding, they’ve used that clay for art and craft projects.)

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// TRENDS

Surmesur

SOMETHING NEW

Think beyond the colour palette. The top wedding trends of 2026 are rich in style, personality and added details that guests adore. by ALYSSA HIROSE

Ouma Bridal

VINTAGE DRAMA Old Hollywood, meet newlyweds. The vintage drama trend brings together the indulgent glamour of your favourite awards show with the bespoke details of an unparalleled cocktail party for a striking, dynamic and historic evening. Lights, camera, wedding. THE DRESS: The Romy cape ($2,350) from

local designer Ouma Bridal is so breathtaking that it moves beyond accessory status— paired with the understated but beautiful Romy slip dress ($4,100), it’s red carpet (and wedding aisle) ready. ouma.co THE SUIT: This occasion calls for a classic

tuxedo that gives a gentle nod to vintage 54

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Cavalier Gastown

Once Twice

design, and a custom look like this three-piece Mohair tux with a U-shaped double-breasted waistcoat from Surmesur (starting at $1,600) fits the bill. surmesur.com

Reformation, Miu Miu and Selkie for affordable prices (some less than $40 for a four-day rental). oncetwicehire.com

THE JEWELLERY: Cavalier Gastown has

THE VENUE: Places, everyone. The Vogue

a radiant cushion-cut blue sapphire ring ($40,200) and flat-brushed baguette-cut blue sapphire band that will get the paparazzi (er, your wedding photographer) buzzing. cavaliergastown.com

Theatre might be best known as a concert venue, but they offer wedding buyouts (starting at $8,000 for the venue with a $75,000 food and beverage minimum). Red folddown audience seating, bright spotlights, a killer sound system... does it get more iconic than that? voguetheatre.com

THE WEDDING PARTY: Encourage your loved

ones to go all-out, but don’t make them buy something doomed to sit in their closet post-wedding—rentals are your friend. Once Twice offers dress rentals from brands like

THE FLOWERS: A big, theatrical venue should

be filled with florals, and Botany and Bloom has the large event experience to deliver a

glorious full-service package (prices vary) or a-la-carte options (deluxe bridal bouquets from $325). botanybloom.ca THE CAKE: A tall and traditional

piped Lambeth wedding cake (from $220) from Joconde Cakes and Catering is timeless and tasty, and pastry chef Behnaz Shafiee offers the option to add flowers (fresh or made of sugar). joconde.ca THE EXTRAS: Smartphone

snapshots can’t fully capture this magical affair. The solution is twofold: offer your guests live watercolour portraits (from $3,000) from local fashion illustrator and calligrapher Isabel Dusmann and hire photographer Tomasz Wagner (from $9,000) to document your wedding using analogue film. isabeldusmann.com, tomaszwagner.co

Garden Par ty

Truvelle

Pink Sugar Cakeroom

Brock House

NOSTALGIAMAXXING

Evorden

Whether you’re true high-school sweethearts or just love that old-school vibe, nostalgic wedding trends will give your event all the charm—and all the emotion— of your favourite rom-com. Celebrate everyone’s inner child (ceremony ice cream stand? score!) and create a party vibe that’s relaxed, lighthearted and maybe a little immature... after all, you’ll never be younger than you are right now.

worry, it’s a wool suit, not denim). It’s casual, comfy and goes with everything, much like the golden-retriever husband. debonairformalwear.com

Co. for casual collared shirts that will pop on the dance floor—the watermelon print ($110) is ready to party. abercrombie.com, poplinandco.com

THE JEWELLERY: Toi et Moi (you and me,

THE VENUE: Beachside and beautiful

en Français) rings have two stones on one band; they’re not your average engagement rings because you’re not an average couple. Evorden offers the vintage Calida ring (from $4,470) in various combinations. Cute idea: you and your partner each pick one. evorden.com

Brock House (from $4,000) is the ceremony venue of your teenage dreams, and catering from in-house Peake includes fun bites like popcorn and charcuterie cups. For the afterparty, there’s the Waldorf (from $7,000), with its mirrored ceiling and funky basement full of Polynesian-inspired decor. brockhouseevents.ca, atthewaldorf.com

THE DRESS: The puffed sleeves of the

Desiree gown (starting at $4,180) from Vancouver-based Truvelle are effortlessly romantic, and they’re also detachable (two looks in one and no need to factor a clothing change into your wedding timeline). lovenotebride.com THE SUIT: A Sergio Barone suit (from $897)

from New West’s Debonair is available in the same blue as your favourite jeans (don’t

(GARDEN PART Y) CAPRI KIMBERLY PHOTO

THE WEDDING PARTY: Getting a dress you

can wear again is every bridesmaid’s dream (that, or a bachelorette that doesn’t cost two month’s rent). Abercrombie has excellent options for your easygoing BFFs, like the Dylan midi dress ($136) that comes in multiple colours and patterns. For the guys (or any suit lover!), make a trip to Poplin and

THE FLOWERS: The local legends at Garden

Party have the cute, colourful blooms that will make guests of all ages swoon, including a bridal bouquet (starting at $275) too gorgeous to toss into a crowd of singles. gardenpartyflowers.ca VA N M A G . C O M S E P T E M B E R /O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

// TRENDS

Bespoke Made Suits

THE CAKE: Heart-shaped cakes are having

a major moment, and the intricate, mesmerizing piping work of Maria Mckinnon is unmatched (cakes starting at $100). The cake-cutting photos will be sweet. @pinksugar_cakeroom

Kathryn Bass

THE EXTRAS: The best way to have a chill

THE VENUE: Let’s be honest, all anyone

ceremony? Renting Earnest’s scoop stand (starting at $930 for two hours) to give your guests ice cream on the spot. Have the ultimate pinball-fuelled after-afterparty at Slice of Life (rentals start at $250) and hire the offbeat Portrait Guestbook to capture every candid, chaotic memory. earnesticecream.com, slicevancouver.ca, portraitguestbook.com

cares about is the food... and downtown’s Chambar will deliver, every time. This longtime Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Award winner does private events, including weddings (from $4,000) and can offer a custom menu and cocktail list that’s a far cry from your standard buffet. chambar.com

EXCLUSIVE DINNER PARTY This is a micro wedding at its best. Invite your true nearest and dearest to an intimate, refined celebration of love that ensures every guest has a night to remember (and an actual conversation with the married couple). The exclusive dinner party will feel like a perfectly hosted evening—incredible food, cocktails, well-dressed guests and no random plusones in your photos for years to come.

Foe and Dear

THE SUIT: For this occasion, the team at

Bespoke Made Suits recommends pieces that are intentional but not rigid (like a deep burgundy tuxedo or soft ivory dinner jacket)—seek out rich colours and subtle contrast details in your made to measure ’fit (from $1,199) to make your look truly special. bespokemadesuits.com

made-to-order Madison top and skirt (from $3,140) will most definitely dazzle. And psst: make your first champagne toast as a married couple wearing the matching lace gloves. kathrynbass.ca 56

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amazing tablescape, and Leis de Buds will bring the dinner party to the next level with artful, welcoming florals that set the VIPonly mood. leisdebuds.com

THE JEWELLERY: Vancouver’s Foe and

THE CAKE: Who says dessert has to be

Dear offers ring designs that are anything but basic, like the Clementine ($4,325), a round brilliant-cut champagne diamond with a little white diamond sidekick. The asymmetrical band positively screams cool, and the brand’s Margo wedding band nestles perfectly into it. foeanddear.com

cake? Think beyond nuptial norms and order some buttery, flaky perfection from the Pie Hole instead. A thick slice of peaches ’n’ cream crumble or Vietnamese coffee pie ($37 per pie) will be the sweetest sendoff. thepiehole.com THE EXTRAS: Highlight the food with

THE WEDDING PARTY: Deck out your squad THE DRESS: Local designer Kathryn Bass’s

THE FLOWERS: Amazing food calls for an

in sharp outfits that will be comfy to lounge around in while enjoying that fourth glass of wine. Aritzia’s Smooth Matter Tango dress ($128) and wool stretch Jack Victor suits from Holt Renfrew ($1,448) are a solid choice. aritzia.com, holtrenfrew.com

custom-designed menus (price on request) from ByCloud; they’ll level up the dinner table and make a beautiful keepsake. And don’t forget the footwear: Poppy Barley’s Esther heeled sandal ($360) can be your something blue. @bycloud__, poppybarley.com

(BESPOKE MADE SUITS) MARC FISAGOL

Memories in the Making There’s always something to celebrate! And we love celebrating!

C R E AT E A M E M O R A B L E C U L I N A R Y E X P E R I E N C E info@trufflesfinefoods.com • www.trufflesfinefoods.com • 604 505 4961

DONATE OR REGISTER NOW

CANUCKS CHAR I T Y I N V I TATI O NAL C AN U C KS C HARI T Y I N V I TAT I ONAL C AN UC KS C HARI T Y I N V I TAT I ONAL

CHEAP EATS // IN SEARCH OF // BEST THING i ATE // OPENING REMARKS // THE WINE LIST // FINAL THOUGHTS

TASTE Feast for a Fiver Flip to page 61 to discover where to get high-impact tacos for just $5 any time of day.

Here’s the Deal If you thought it was impossible to get a great meal for a good deal these days, we’re here to prove you wrong: flip the page for the best cheap eats in town. But this issue’s food coverage doesn’t end there—read on for outrageous seafood towers, the new rooms we can’t get enough of and winenerd-approved small-batch bottles we’ll be sipping all season.

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TASTE / / cheap eats

1 Daily Dada Deal

CHEAP THRILLS More than 20 deals across the city that’ll have you eating remarkably well and spending remarkably little. by The Editors

We know there are few greater joys than splashing out on a no-expensesspared meal from one of Vancouver’s worldclass dining rooms, but some weeks call for a little more budgetary restraint. For times like those, we must recommend these wallet-friendly eats, from full-course meals and happy hour deals that’ll both please your palate and drop your jaw to bites you can snag on the go—some as cheap as $2.95 but all for under $30.

The Real Meal Deal You’ll want to re-arrange your schedule for these maximum-value threecourse dinners, lunch combos and big-bangfor-your-buck breakfasts.

In defence of never meal prepping, Kitsilano’s Kitchen Dada will pack your lunch for you daily with their Takeout Special ($10). This rotating daily lunch has, in the past, included miso soup, a sushi roll, donburi and a selection of deepfried goods, but you’ll have to check their Instagram each morning to find out what combination of goodies is on offer. thekitchendada.com 2 “Employee” Perks

You don’t actually need to work at Chambar to get in on their staff pricing. Every Monday after 5 p.m., they serve up a three-course “staff meal” for $28 to

anyone who wants to try a full European-style menu (first come, first served—no reservations) that includes a starter, a main and a dessert. The menu changes weekly, so you’ll have to go online to see what they’re serving on an upcoming Monday. chambar.com 3 Jonesin’ for Jo’s

The Lunch Box combo ($14) at Jo’s Italian Deli will bring shame to your brown-bagged lunch: a sandwich on a fresh-ashell baguette (we like the Italian veggie with tangy artichokes and mozza) plus a punchy pasta salad full of sundried tomatoes. Call it carbo-loading at its most affordable. Splurge

for an Italian soda on the side if you’re feeling fancy. jositaliandeli.com 4 Hit the 10-Spot

Skip the golden arches for your cheap hangover meal and pull up with friends to R&B Brewing’s 10 Buck Brunch ($10, obviously). Five different meals are on offer from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each weekend: the Brewer’s Plate (tater tots, scrambled eggs, bacon and focaccia), housemade waffles served with a generous ladle of seasonal fruit compote, a breakfast bowl smothered in marinara or hollandaise and the Weekend Brekky sando (with an option to make it vegan), each for a tenner. randbbrewing.com

Just a Smokin’ Deal Some bargains don’t fit neatly into a category because they’ve been hiding in plain sight all along. Here are some cheap eats you can get at any time of day. Burger Deal, Aloo-lujah In a city where most burgers are upward of $20 unless it’s happy hour, Rollzzy on Commercial Drive might feel like a mirage. Their Aloo Tikki burger ($10.99), made with a masala potato patty, cheddar cheese and all the fixings, tops the bestsellers on their menu of Indian-inspired burgers at any time of day. Wash it down with a cup of chai (choose from masala, ginger or cardamom) for an extra $2.99. rollzzy.com

Samosa City One might forget that Commercial Drive vegan

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grocer Sweet Cherubim is actually a spot where you can sit and eat, too, and its hot food items are some of the best deals in the city. Their “meal-sized” samosas (including potato zucchini spinach, chickpea and tofu rice) are $4.95, but you can bracket up to add a soup, salad and dip and still land below $12. sweetcherubim.com

Grilled Tease The city’s go-to 24-hour bakery, Breka (now with eight locations across Vancouver), knows good bread—which is why their pillowy brioche slices sing in their simple yet

killer grilled cheese ($4.75), served up with a quartered spear of pickle. The thing is, once you’re there, you’re bound to want to pick up a few of their pastries, too. breka.ca

the spot’s rotating frozen margs. lataqueria.com/ pinchetaco

Cinco de Taco

Birds and the Brekkie

All day, every day you can snag a taco for just $5 at La Taqueria’s even-more-casual concept, Pinche Taco Shop. Eight of their 10 mainstay tacos (including pollo al carbón, pescado baja and hongos con queso) can be nabbed by trading in a mere fiver, but if you’re feeling spendy, pair them with one of

Gastown’s Birds and the Beets (which morphs into wine and cocktail concept Bar Tartare at night) serves up a filling miso barley bowl ($7) full of warm Saskatchewan barley, arugula, pickled veggies and seeds, all tossed in a miso vinaigrette and topped with a jammy ramen egg. birdsandbeets.ca

Bottoms Up! If you’ve come this far into our encyclopedia of cheap eats, you must be getting thirsty by now. We have just the right deals to help solve that problem.

Grab and Go

Portable eats for those days when cooking isn’t in the cards. Tamago to go-go Sure, you can now grab a classic tamago sando at any 7-Eleven, but Hastings-Sunrise bakery Kanadell has been carrying the konbini treat for years: a creamy, fluffy umami-rich egg salad delicately pressed between two slices of milk bread. Stop by and pick up one of their famous Japanese egg salad sandos for $5. kanadell.com Wrap It Up Over at Kitsilano’s Parthenon Market, pick your preferred ingredients on the mini order sheets and be prepared for a jampacked pita in return: you can get a whole skewer of lamb, chicken or falafel with bottomless veggies including grilled eggplant and red peppers, house made sauce like God’s Dip and spicy feta spread,

all for $10.99. Upgrade to “Greek style” for $1.50 and they’ll shove some french fries in there, too. parthenonmarket.ca Choose Your Own Bun-venture Grab a freshly baked bun from the open rack at Piast Bakery and Deli and then point to the deli meat and cheese you desire. The Polish woman working the counter will then stuff your custom sandwich as if she were your aunt (except she’ll charge you $8, which is still pretty cheap). 3280 Cambie St. Onigiri-Yassss Perhaps one of the most transportable snacks of all time, the onigiri is a triangle of pressed sushi rice stuffed with any combination of fillings and wrapped in a salty sheet of nori. These handheld umami

delights from Onigiri Ya (three locations in Vancouver) come in more than a dozen different flavours, like the tuna takowasa (tuna with wasabi flavoured octopus) and the unagi (enough said), most of which are $3.99. onigiriya.ca Good Korma Our editor-in-chief gets this at least twice a month, so you know we mean it when we say this is a grab-and-go item you’ll be coming back to. Indian Roti Kitchen’s mixed veggie korma roti ($15.99) is curry wrapped up into a comfort-food bundle in housemade roti with six levels of spice that are not for the faint of heart. We recommend cutting it in half so you have lunch for the next day. indianrotikitchen.com

Happy Hour Discount drinks are great, but these happy hour specials come with enough food and value to make a meal out of them.

2 GOOD NOT 2 Given what the city’s hottest chef had to say on the red carpet at our 2026 Restaurant Awards, Between 2 Buns is the burger place to be. You can try this legendary burger for yourself on the cheap for happy hour (Friday to Sunday, noon to 3 p.m.), when you can get a Single Cheeser combo (one beef patty with cheese, pickles, shredded lettuce and B2B house sauce, plus fries and a pop) for $18.99. between2bunsburgers.ca

MAMI MIA! A deal so good, we had to ask “is this pho-king real?” Chao Mami Express (located inside Granville SkyTrain Station) serves up bowls of warming-yet-refreshing bowls of beef pho for $10, from 2 to 6 p.m. daily—in case you wanted a good (and comforting) reason to hang back and wait out the commuter crowd. chaomamiexpress.com

DOSA THIS DEAL SPEAK TO YOU? It’s not quite a happy hour, but Mondays are a happy day at House of Dosas (located in Davie Village and on Kingsway), where the signature dish is also its namesake. Think: crispy foot-long crepes filled with South Asian flavours like eggplant alu dosa, butter chicken, paneer masala and more for $5.99 each. Optional sides are tomato or coconut chutney and sambar. houseofdosas.ca

WINE NOT?

Here’s one for the folks clocking out early: after 2:30 p.m. daily, Homer Street Cafe and Bar pops open highly drinkable bottles of house white, red , rosé or bubbles for just $29. Call a friend for that very important meeting and call it a day. homerstreetcafebar.com 2

SIPPER SAMPLE

Three gigantic cups of Korean rice wine make up the makgeolli flight ($10.99) at Chinatown’s VanmakYVR Bistro. Choose from flavours such as peach, strawberry, mango, citron, chestnut, original and green grape. These “sampler” cups are more akin to soup bowls than flight glasses, giving you quite a few slurps of this creamy, fizzy and smooth-sweet rice wine before moving on to your meal. vanmak.ca 3 “THE BEST CHEAP WINE IN THE PROVINCE”

It can be hard to drink on the cheap when your palate is as refined as that of our wine editor, Neal McLennan, but the Grao Vasco Dao ($11.99) caught his attention. The Portuguese red is known to be versatile in its culinary accompaniments, so we’d press you to find one of the grab-and-go items elsewhere on this page, then hit the BCL and snag this bottle for a perfectly affordable pairing. bcliquorstores.com 4

WELL, WELL, WELL DRINKS

Up a steep but unassuming staircase in Mount Pleasant is possibly one of the most unsung party spots in the city—Simply Delicious. From 4 to 6 p.m. each day, the restaurant-slashkaraoke bar-slash-top-level-patio spot slings $3 highballs of their choice, which is a fun way to get both sips and surprise out of the day. sdeatery.com

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TASTE / / IN SEARCH OF

Cheap Eats, continued from page 61

A Word About Bon’s It would be an act of journalistic disservice to do a Cheap Eats story without mentioning Bon’s Off Broadway. The East Van diner’s “Breakfast All Day $2.95” sign should be considered an official historic landmark, unchanged since 1991. In this notoriously expensive moment in history, it should be impossible to continue to offer a full meal for under three dollars—heck, it was already a killer deal 20 years ago, back when some of us were hungover college students, pouring ourselves into a sticky vinyl booth in medical need of toast. Though other menu items (pancakes et al.) are in line with typical breakfast pricing, the cost of living has not touched this eternal loss-leader offer, and for that we must show our appreciation and admiration. Is this the most delicious or creative breakfast you can get in the city? Certainly not: it’s eggs, toast, home fries and a round slice of ham that looks like the moon. Has anyone bothered to salt said eggs? Of course not! If you want fancy things like “seasoning” or “a bathroom mirror not covered in graffiti,” there are many other places in the city happy to host you. But if you are not precious about ambiance (or, admittedly, cleanliness) and want to trade a $5 bill for a plate that will fill your belly (with change), Bon’s provides. It is a miracle. It is a public service. It is a legend. It is really not worth upgrading to bacon. 2451 Nanaimo St.

IN SEARCH OF...

SEAFOOD TOWERS Uchu The Torre del Mar ($89 per person) stands out as top tier (ha—get it?) at chef Ricardo Valverde’s Peruvian cevicheria and raw bar. Unlike the other seafood experiences in this round-up, it comes in two different servings. First, a two-tier chilled tower that boasts leche de tigre shooters, plump oysters with a creamy espuma sprinkled with tajin, scallops on the shell, refreshing steelhead trout tiraditos, mussels escabeche and chilled prawns. After you’ve devoured your way through the tower, some nikkei bites (Peruvian nigiri) and creamy potato causas arrive on a ceramic plate specially made for Uchu by designer Meemware. 158 E Pender St., @uchurestaurant 1

Blue Water Cafe At Yaletown’s Blue Water Cafe, they take the words “seafood” and “tower” incredibly seriously. The three-tier Blue Water Cafe tower ($205) comes with a selection of sushi as well as the restaurant’s signature raw bites. Think: tidily rolled spicy tuna and Dungeness crab rolls, tuna goma-ae and an entire chilled one-pound lobster spilling over the top shelf. Divided over three rippled glass bowls are oysters, prawns, clams, mussels and a wasabi jellyfish salad that stings the tastebuds in a delightful way, plus salmon tartare, seared black pepper-crusted red tuna and a scallop ceviche. This 2

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Seafood is serious business in this city. No wonder, then, that Vancouver’s best highend spots love to literally put it on a pedestal. Here are four towers of power that celebrate the bounty of the ocean. By Kristi Alexandra

beautiful behemoth is best paired with an entire bottle of wine, which they’ll keep chilled for you tableside. 1095 Hamilton St., bluewatercafe.ca Boulevard Uchu This stunning room is the home of Vanmag’s 2026 Chef of the Year, Roger Ma. And with his exquisite attention to detail, it makes sense that the seafoodheavy spot is also our gold winner in fine dining—which is all to say that their winner of a seafood tower ($90 for two people, $175 for four) takes the cake. Atop crushed ice in Blue Water Cafe two gargantuan glass vessels, find smoked steelhead, a carapace have either, The King seafood full of Dungeness crab Louie, tower ($269) would still knock it snow crab legs, prawns and out of the park. A whole chilled freshly shucked oysters, along Atlantic lobster comes expertly with luscious slices of albacore sawn in half on the top tier along tuna tataki and mussels with juicy king crab legs, tuna drenched in an escabeche. tataki dry-rubbed with a smoky Crowning the top tier of the chili spice and a Hokkaido tower is a frozen martini for two scallop crudo. Plumes of dry ($25) shaken inside a Grey Goose ice smoke billow down to the bottle and set inside the ice to lower level, where four plump keep chilled. 845 Burrard St., jumbo prawns, a selection of raw boulevardvancouver.ca oysters with a mignonette and a dill cocktail sauce are 4 Riley’s on offer, all expertly executed Theatrics and location are on by chef Jon Chuy. 200 Burrard Riley’s side—but even if the St., rileysrestaurant.ca/ upscale seaside eatery didn’t vancouver 3

(UCHU) HAK AN BURCUOGLU; (BLUE WATER CAFE) LEIL A K WOK

TASTE / / new and hot

OPENING REMARKS

A fresh sheet uncovering the city’s newest restaurants.

BEST THING I ATE by

Kristi Alexandra

Touski Business

Coastal Caliente

Ray of Light

The name is short for “tout ce qui reste,” a Québécois saying that loosely means “everything there is.” In short, Touski co-owners Lina Caschetto (Say Hey Café and Deli) and Neil Hillbrandt (Bar Gobo) will be cooking what’s available and in the fridge instead of offering painstakingly planned-out menus, but the cuisine tends to lean French and English. 154 E Pender St., heytouski.com

Pulpo Zarandeado, $30

Tasty Tentacles Having had the luxury of living in a coastal city for most of my life, I know I’ve been spoiled by the bounty of fresh seafood. (Just take a look at this issue’s roundup of seafood towers—opposite page—for evidence of that.) But less common than a delightfully bright tuna tataki in this city is a stunning octopus dish. That’s where Chupito, the kind of tucked-away spot you’d rave about if you discovered it while travelling, comes in. The Mexican haunt serves up a jaw-dropping pulpo zarandeado ($30): a cluster of octopus tentacles sous-vide to perfection and seared on the grill, creating a perfectly charred, crispy exterior while maintaining an impossibly tender bite. Corn tortillas, garlic aioli and chipotle mayo accompany the dish on the side. In the zarandeado style, the tender tentacles are butterflied in half and chargrilled in a wire barbeque cage. Charred broccolini and a blistered lemon half give it a seaside barbeque shack flavour that completes the transportive experience. And “transport” is a big part of what makes this plate such a knockout. On the day I was lucky enough to devour it, owneroperator Tara Davies (who also happens to be our 2025 Bartender of the Year) told me the octopus had been flown in fresh from the coast of Spain just the day before. chupito.ca

At Acuyo on Alberni Street, classic Mexican coastal dishes are given new life through chef Rafael Chavez, like hamachi tiradito and a shareable spicy aguachile with fresh shrimp cured in lime and layered with vibrant pops of serrano chilies. 1140 Alberni St., acuyo.ca

From the dining group behind the uber-unfussy El Furniture Warehouse, Ray’s elevates affordable eats in a new 270-seater spot in Yaletown. The General Wow chicken is smothered in a sweet chili; pasta dishes like truffle spaghetti and meatballs comfort. 1131 Mainland St., raysrestaurant.com

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TASTE / / SmALL-BATCH WINES

Little Wines That Could THE WINE LIST by

Neal McLennan

Technically, almost everyone in the wine industry is a “maker,” but this cadre of ultra-smallproduction wineries make wine in such limited quantities that you’ll never see them on the shelves of the BCL. We’re talking just a few barrels worth of wine, lovingly handmade by people who almost certainly have at least one other side hustle for survival while they pursue their passion. And when a label pops up—be it on a wine list or in small independent wine store—you snap it up because you know it’ll be gone in short order. All hail the little guys.

Soren Bracken Vineyard Chardonnay, $45 If the indie wine world had a supergroup, this would be it. Winemaker Ryan McKibbon’s day job is at Black Hills, and master of wine Geoffrey Moss has worked at both Culmina and Phantom Creek. Together, they source grapes to produce cool wines that make them smile. Thanks to the big freeze, they sourced their chardonnay grapes from the volcanic soils of Oregon’s Eola–Amity Hills AVA and the result is dynamite precision and a mineral-laced zip of citrus and crisp peach.

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L-ST Projects Okonuvo Gamay, $34 In a lot of ways, Alyssa Hubert is the prototypical small winemaker. She’s worked in tasting rooms, she’s worked as a sommelier and she’s helped make wine at JoieFarm Winery, as well as superlative cider at Penticton’s Creek and Gully. But L-ST Projects is her passion: low intervention, thoughtful wines unburdened by many of the paradigms that delineate the industry. It’s an ifyou-know-you-know label and when you see a bottle—there are just 10 cases of this stripped down gamay that’s as pure as the day is long—you know.

SpaceDog Wines Disinherited Viognier, $58 Unlike the other two, SpaceDog fully intends to shed the small-production mantle in the coming years with a full slate of big reds already aging in barrel, but for now they have two wines, including a very bold rosé made from merlot and this turned-up-to-11 barrel-aged viognier. Expect fullthrottle aromatics and lush mouthfeel. This is a wine for those enticed by the heavy whites of the Northern Rhône and who want their whites to pack serious punch.

Global News Hour at 6 with Chris Gailus & Sophie Lui We are BC’s News. Globalnews.ca

FINAL THOUGHTS / / MEET CUTE

Love On the Run Normally I would never chase after a man—but in pursuit of a real-life meet-cute, I lace up my sneakers. by Kerri Donaldson “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” That iconic Elle Woods line is how I justify signing up for a singles run that will have me doing two things I deeply dread: jogging and small talk. But anything is better than speed-dating bottom feeders. Here, at least, running away is built right into the programming. Though the event is organized by Mondays Run Club, Sole Ties singles runs happen on Thursdays. I roll into the meeting spot: Turf on 4th Avenue in Kits, where a coffee shop and exercise studio apparently met, fell in love and opened a business. Must be nice. The vibes, in other words, are immaculate. Plus: great lighting. I get there 10 minutes before take-off, which gives me just enough time to hover awkwardly, start one pre-run chat and not stretch at all. It all feels very Love Island: Kits Edition. Except the islanders are people who are not only willing to run, but also willing to pay for the privilege. Everyone follows the dress code of black and comfortable. We look like emo-goth yoga instructors or a Pilates club for theatre stagehands. The room is buzzing—the kind of buzz only happy people and bees can produce. It bodes well. I soon meet a lovely fellow single gal, also flying solo, which confirms one of my singles-event findings: you may arrive alone, hard thing, hard mode, hard squared, but you usually leave with a new bestie who immediately adds you on Instagram. Romantic? No. Delightful? Absolutely. Trauma-bonding? Sure. Sisterhood? Also true. Then comes the run. The pre-event email called it a “relaxed 5K social run,” but Mondays’ definition of “relaxed” includes a lot more wheezing than anticipated. Do I

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have asthma? There’s no time to stop and figure that out. I don’t want to abandon my singles-event gal pal, ruin my chances of sweating aggressively near my potential The One or admit that I’m susceptible to peer pressure when everyone’s dressed like they’re on their way to a funeral service at an OrangeTheory. It’s a good mix of people: viable candidates, a range from 20s to 40s and real human beings. No dating-app blur of faces and prompts and men holding fish like they personally invented salmon. The crowd leans running-community, obviously. It also seems to lean heterosexual, though who knows; I’m mostly focused on oxygen intake. Do I flirt? Not really. I’m too busy getting to know my own physical limits. But I can hear people chatting each other up as they hot-foot it down the waterfront. This is speed dating at its most literal. People near Kits Beach cheer us on like we’re running for a cause, which, in a way, I am. (The cause, specifically, is finding my forever plus-one and not collapsing in front of potential matches.) By the end, back at Turf, I am exhausted, sweaty and so red-faced that when I press an ice-cold post-run Nude to my cheek, it sizzles. On the bright side, running burns off the panicky singles-event energy better than any icebreaker could. Suddenly everyone has a shared experience, a shared enemy (exercise) and a shared understanding that no one is above looking bad in public. Which brings me to my hair. I’m starting to understand why so few athletes have bangs. Between the rain, the sweat and their apparent desire to see me die alone, mine have turned against me. In Turf’s moody lighting, they almost pass. Under the bathroom fluorescents, it’s giving “McDonald’s arch.” Luckily, I’m too tired to care, or to hunt down the event photographer who caught me mid-run and destroy her camera. I’ve earned this dishevelled ’do. Consider them my bangs of honour. At the DJ’d after-party, there’s just enough structure: no forced mingling, no clipboard supervision. It feels clubby, only

with running shoes, mild muscle trauma and canned cocktails sipped while everyone’s calves are seeking legal action. And get this: people are actually approaching each other. A few guys come over and ask how my run was. It’s an interesting question because I don’t know how to answer. I did it? I lived? Please respect my privacy during this difficult time of medical uncertainty? What I definitely do not want to say is, “I’m here to write about this in a magazine,” because men can get weird and, also, because I am trying to be normal, a genre I dabble in occasionally for research. So I pull a 21 Jump Street and pretend to be “a person who runs” to fit in with the pack. I confidently say, “I feel great,” even though, 20 minutes earlier, I was worrying about passing out in the back and forcing the rest of my emo run cult to leave me behind for dead. In one corner, someone offers “Vedic astrology insights,” which, from the back of a line whose front I never see, looks very tarot-coded. There’s also Bisou, an app that lets you wave at people and browse profiles in the room. I haven’t set mine up, partly due to tech lag and partly because, as a woman of science and journalistic integrity, I’ve sworn off apps for the night. If I’m going to wave, it’ll be the old-fashioned way: hand up, eye contact, ego death. Beyond the music and drinks and probably tarot cards, the event has what most singles mixers are missing: value. Not “I paid this much, therefore I am owed a husband” value. Value as in: I’m doing something hard. I’m showing up. I’m moving my body, talking to strangers, putting myself in the path of possibility. Even if I don’t meet The One, I won’t leave feeling taken for a ride. I started this column wondering whether the real-life meet-cute still exists. I’m not ready to say I’ve found it. But I am convinced it needs a better environment than a dating app and a better pace than speed dating. Maybe it needs something to do. A reason to show up. A little effort. A little sweat. A little shared discomfort. Maybe a DJ. Definitely flattering lighting. And some well-earned endorphins. Because endorphins make you happy. Unless you have bangs—then expect to be humbled.

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