BREWERY DISTRICT
L I V I N G
Brewery District Living recognizes and respectfully acknowledges the Qayqayt First Nation, as well as all Coast Salish peoples, on whose traditional and unceded territories we live and work.
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director Advertising Sales Cover Art
“Dogs and Cats on Fences” by Margaret Halsey
Contributing Photographers / Artists
Margaret Halsey GARDENWORKS
Tasha Henderson
Aaron Ward Studios
Weihsuan Lu
Katherine Hall
Katerina Tsangarakis-Senior
The Scentuals Team
Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's New West
Katherine Hall
Margaret Halsey
Aleksandra Genest GARDENWORKS
Tasha Henderson
Katherine Hall
Contributing Writers
Monica Peterson
Brian Cady Weihsuan Lu
Katerina Tsangarakis-Senior
Connect with us: @brewerydistrictlivingmagazine
Katherine Hall
Ashley Gonzalez Rivas
Jennifer Mackie
Amanda Tubbs
Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's New West
brewerydistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com
Dear Neighbours
The days are growing brighter, and the neighbourhood is beginning to bloom. This issue of Brewery District Living is filled with stories that celebrate connection, creativity, and community spirit this Spring - with a special nod to the pets who bring so much joy to our lives
In Issue 05, we meet a local New Westminster artist who has transformed a simple fence into a beautiful work of art honouring dogs and cats, a heartfelt project that has captured attention across the community and beyond. Paired with our sweet and adorable pet of the month, this issue offers plenty for animal lovers to enjoy.
Families can get egg-cited for a day of fun at the 3rd Annual East Columbia Eggstravaganza in Sapperton, a festive way to explore the neighbourhood while visiting local businesses, and collecting treats along the way
We also explore several incredible businesses from spending a day at GARDENWORKS, including a visit to their hidden gem café for brunch or lunch, to gathering with friends at Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's New West, a lively spot perfect for celebrations and fun events. Scentuals Natural & Organic Skin Care share their passion for creating locally made beauty products, while the recently opened Apex Fencing Academy offers a place where confidence and friendships are built Alongside these, our Coaching Corner provides practical advice for entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of business
We hope this issue inspires you to get out, explore, and connect - whether that’s discovering a new local favourite, supporting a neighbourhood business, or simply enjoying a walk through the community in bloom.
Sincerely,
3rd Annual East Columbia Eggstravaganza
Kids Activity Page Fun puzzles, games, & colouring
KellyO'Bryan's&CarlosO'Bryan'sNewWest Eat, drink, & be Irish!
Scentuals Natural & Organic Skin Care
legacy of Canadian clean beauty
Fencing Academy
Corner with Brian Cady
Love for Brewery District
We love the community base in New West, seeing friendly faces each day, welcoming new guests and having the pleasure of serving them while creating a memorable experience for everyone who walks through our doors! We want New West to thrive and be a booming hub and we will continue to strive to accomplish that
- Jennifer & Amanda , Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's New West
What I love most about the Brewery District and Sapperton neighbourhood is the strong sense of community It feels welcoming and walkable, with friendly faces and a genuine appreciation for local businesses. It’s a place where people and dogs are both made to feel at home.
- Weihsuan Lu , Proud Pawrent of Luma
Brewery District has a wonderful community feel I love the mix of history and modern, walkable streets, and beautiful riverfront views There’s always something happening, yet it still feels relaxed and welcoming With great parks, local shops, and places to gather, it’s the kind of neighbourhood where people truly enjoy living.
-
Brian , Executive Business Coach
Effectus Coaching
I live up the hill from the Brewery District I have lived here long enough to know why it is called the Brewery District Now it is a vibrant and friendly area of shops and restaurants and dwellings, and a lovely river walk Every part of it is a good walk for my dog Sinead She even knows where the other greyhounds live, in the high-rises.
We love Green’s and Beans.
We always see people we know and we never feel alone here
- Margaret , Artist & Writer
What’s great about the Brewery District is its seamless blend of utility and community. It has transformed an industrial site into a sophisticated urban hub where everything is ''around the corner.'' Being steps from the Sapperton SkyTrain makes it incredibly connected, yet it maintains a distinct, neighbourhood feel that is rare for such a modern development
- Ashley , Scentuals Natural & Organic Skin Care
There’s something so special about Sapperton: the walkability, the strong sense of community, and the way all the small businesses cheer each other on It has that same warm, creative energy Katerina loved in her former neighbourhood, Commercial Drive, just with a quirkier, small-town twist. It’s vibrant, supportive, and full of zest: the perfect place to live, work, and raise her family.
- Katerina , The Zesty Lemon Clothing Co.
There really is something for everyone here, whether you’re looking for archery lessons, health services, or the best cookies in the region This is a neighbourhood where people feel connected I love the mix of longtime and new residents and that every time you walk along East Columbia you inevitably see at least one neighbour - and dog! - that you know.
-
Tasha
, City Councillor, New Westminster
ARTIST STATEMENT
In my work over the years I have painted using oils, watercolour, acrylic, pastel, pencil and inks.
My work is diverse, and consistently it expresses my feelings as it is unique in its style
A friend of my once told me that he cannot see what I can in the many layers of colours and shapes, and for him, green is just green. In a watercolour those layers form, in my style of painting.
As many artists do, I have a strong desire to paint the beauty and diverse landscape and places I have seen, as well as what I feel and see, to give others an opportunity to see it through my eyes
My portraits of dogs and cats express the love I have for all creatures and they also bring happiness and good memories to the people whose pets they are.
ARTIST BIO
Margaret Halsey was born in Berkhamsted Hertfordshire England The family moved to Toronto Ontario, Canada when she was 9 Her interest in art started early in life as she was inspired by her very talented father, the late Herbert Joseph Halsey (1924 to 2002) Margaret moved to British Columbia (Vancouver) in 1980 and in 2003 to New Westminster
Her early works were in black and white inks, and oils. She became much more interested in watercolours in the early 70’s. and in acrylics several years later.
She has always had a love of animals and in particular the dog Her portraits of dogs and cats are a focus in her work
All original works of the artist are sold privately. Her work can be seen at her website www.margarethalsey.com and her home and studio in New Westminster, B.C. by appointment only.
She is also the creator and artist of two fence projects in New Westminster, B C called Dogs of 6 and Devoy and Friends, and Cherry Lane Canines and Cats These fences feature dogs and some cats, of the neighbourhood She has also produced and published two books about these fences th
“My art has been my passion all through my life, along with my business career. Since 2015 it has been a much bigger part of my life.“
Artist Spotlight: Margaret Halsey
So many people, those whose dog or cat is on the fence, neighbours who walk in the lanes, and people from other neighbourhoods who hear about them, love these fences. They are in fact a landmark, well-loved in New Westminster.
WORDS & ARTWORK BY MARGARET HALSEY
It was such a delight to paint all of these dogs together I even had the pleasure of an audience of Ice and Merilee, his lady, during a painting session Ice seemed quite excited by the progress of the portrait on the fence “I absolutely adore the hearts and the sparkle in Ice's eye “You have most certainly captured my dogs!!!” ~
Merilee
“Dogs
THE PROJECT
Dogs and Cats on Fences
A project in a new form took place on two fences in New Westminster from 2015 to 2019, with some minor changes and additions since. It represents the importance of dogs and cats in our lives.
My father had told me that I had a special talent for dog faces in that I capture the spirit of the animal in the eyes My father died in 2002 and it was not until sometime after his death that one of my main subjects became the dog So much so that I decided I wanted to honour the dog on a laneway fence and in 2015 I painted my dog and the fence owner’s dog at 333 E 6th
This resulted in the fence at 6 Ave and the laneway below 8th Ave (it is where 6 Ave meets 8 Ave) and another at 805 Cherry St., in the New Westminster neighbourhood, and over 100 faces of dogs, and several cats. th th th
As well, the fences raised over $8,000. for the BC and Alberta Guide Dogs and Dogs for Autism and I was able to name a puppy after my dad. She is called Bertie and she now appears on an extension to the fence
New Westminster dog-fence portraits raise funds for B.C. Guide Dogs | CBC News
New Westminster fence goes to the dogs for charityBC | Globalnews ca
SMYTH
Spend a day at GARDENWORKS
WORDS & PHOTOS BY GARDENWORKS
For New Westminster residents, GARDENWORKS
Burnaby–Mandeville is just a quick drive away - and an easy way to spend a morning or afternoon close to home. Whether you’re picking up a few plants for the balcony, searching for a gift, or just looking for a change of scenery, it’s a great local spot to wander and explore.
GARDENWORKS Burnaby–Mandeville is an easy local outing. Grab a coffee, take a walk through the greenhouse, and head home with a little inspiration for your own space.
The on-site café is a local favourite and a bit of a hidden gem. Stop in for breakfast or lunch, order one of the popular eggs Benedicts, and add a coffee, tea, or pastry to the mix. Many locals make it part of their weekly routine - and once you visit, you will too.
Beyond the café, you’ll find home décor, candles, kitchenware, gourmet treats, and plenty of gift ideas It’s the kind of place where you come in for one thing and leave with three
Of course, plants are at the heart of it all. From condofriendly houseplants to seasonal colour on your balcony, there’s something for every size space. A stroll through the greenhouse - especially in spring - is worth the trip on its own.
And yes - every plant needs a pot. From simple classics to more modern styles, there’s a wide selection to match your space and budget. Outdoor furniture is here too, making it easy to pull together a small patio update or a larger backyard plan
If you’re feeling inspired, check out the workshops and seminars that run all year long Create your own indoor terrarium, plant an orchid in glass, or build a seasonal outdoor planter with friends Seminars offer practical gardening advice for beginners and experienced growers alike, and the team is always ready to answer questions
Join us for an information packed, family fun weekend to help you get a head start on your Spring gardening projects big and small
Even if you’re just stopping by to look around, GARDENWORKS Burnaby–Mandeville is an easy nearby outing. Grab a coffee, take a walk through the greenhouse, and head home with a little inspiration for your own space - just a short drive from New West. Saturday,March21&Sunday,March22
See you soon!
4746 Marine Drive, Burnaby, B.C., V5J 3G6
(Just a short drive from New Westminster) lnstagram: @gardenworkscanada
Facebook: GARDENWORKS Canada
Website: www.gardenworks.ca
Phone: 604-434-4111
The East Columbia
Eggstravaganza
WORDS & PHOTOS BY
TASHA HENDERSON & KATERINA TSANGARAKIS-SENIOR
The East Columbia Eggstravaganza is back for Year 3!
The East Columbia Eggstravaganza is a fun family-friendly event where kids and families are invited to explore Sapperton and visit our diverse local businesses Come join us on Saturday, April 4, 2026 from 11 am - 3 pm along East Columbia Street, between Braid and Debeck Street
The East Columbia Eggstravaganza is a beautiful, hopeful, and joyful event bursting with the New Westminster sense of community we all know and love.
Participants will look for egg decals and balloons on storefronts which mark the businesses taking part. At each stop, kids can collect a treat! This year, we’re bringing back the popular scavenger hunt, encouraging families to visit participating businesses and not skip a stop. It’s a great way to ensure everyone gets involved while discovering all that Sapperton has to offer!
The fun doesn’t stop there - we’ll have a hub set up at Cap's Bicycle Store with face painting, arts and crafts, and our VIP guest: the Easter Bunny! Last year we welcomed 1500+ visitors to the 40+ participating businesses along East Columbia Street. Keep your eyes peeled for the Easter Bunny hopping around the Brewery District as well!
We’re Katerina Tsangarakis-Senior and Tasha Henderson, two Sapperton residents with big ideas and a passion for supporting small businesses in our neighbourhood Katerina owns The Zesty Lemon Clothing Co , a sizeinclusive clothing store just a block from her home, and as a mom of two she’s dedicated to making Sapperton a lively place where families can explore and enjoy all the energy of a connected and vibrant community
Tasha, a New Westminster City Councillor and mom of two, shares this vision of fostering a strong, vibrant, and connected neighbourhood. One of her favourite unintended positive impacts from the events has been the connection local children are making with local business owners and staff. As kids grow and have more independence out in the community, they have many familiar and friendly faces in the neighbourhood should they need help
This event is sponsored by Simply Wonderful Nails, located at 419 East Columbia Street. Voted Burnaby & New Westminster’s Top Choice Nail Salon in 2026, Simply Wonderful Nails focuses on delivering beautiful results in a clean, relaxing, and welcoming environment. The staff at Simply Wonderful Nails have always been amongst the first to say “yes!” to our event ideas and we were thrilled when they asked to be the Main Sponsor in 2025. Because of their generosity, we were able to expand the event and add even more fun! Thank you, Simply Wonderful Nails, for making this event possible!
The East Columbia Eggstravaganza is a beautiful, hopeful, and joyful event bursting with the New Westminster sense of community we all know and love
Hop on over and we will see you there!
Tasha Henderson & Katerina Tsangarakis-Senior
See you there!
Along East Columbia Street, between Braid and Debeck Street Saturday, April 4, from 11am-3pm Instagram: @eastcolumbiaeggstravaganza 12
Connect the dots. What is it?
Spot the differences in the pictures. How many did you find?
BONUS: Find all the hidden eggs. How many did you find?
Colour the egg. Then decorate the blank eggs with your own creative designs!
Draw some flowers on the stems to create a beautiful garden.
PRESENTED BY
KELLY O'BRYAN'S & CARLOS O'BRYAN'S NEW WEST
Jennifer Mackie has been in the hospitality industry for 30 years and is the owner/operator of Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's in New Westminster Throughout the years Jennifer has always been a hard working and dedicated mother, while embracing an entrepreneurial spirit that has helped her navigate her way through this industry in many facets of the business.
She later partnered with the Kelly O’Bryan’s group in the Spring of 2017. Jennifer’s Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's location in New Westminster opened in December 2017 and she has enjoyed an exciting nearly 8 years of business so far!
We love the community base in New West, seeing friendly faces each day, welcoming new guests and having the pleasure of serving them while creating a memorable experience for everyone who walks through our doors!
Jennifer is a steadfast and supportive leader with a progressive perspective on how to build loyalty and motivate her team She is truly driven to build leaders, embrace teamwork and develop her employees She is also actively involved in the community of New Westminster and is focused heavily on advocating for local businesses, economic growth and safety Through it all, she still has a remarkable love for an industry that can wear down even the keenest of people!
We love the community base in New West, seeing friendly faces each day, welcoming new guests and having the pleasure of serving them while creating a memorable experience for everyone who walks through our doors! We want New West to thrive and be a booming hub and we will continue to strive to accomplish that
Tucked into a historic building on Columbia Street, Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's New West is a lively neighbourhood pub and restaurant where great food, good company, and a welcoming atmosphere come together Whether you’re dropping in for a casual night out or gathering with friends to celebrate something special, it’s the kind of place that instantly feels like home
Known for its warm, social vibe, this spot is always buzzing with activity From upbeat karaoke nights to trivia, paint nights, or watching the game, there’s always something happening to bring people together. It’s also a go-to destination for birthdays, girls’ nights, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and group celebrations - made even better by their popular birthday offer, which treats guests to a complimentary meal on their special day (see website for T&Cs).
The menu is packed with hearty pub favourites such as Irish Battered Fish N’ Chips, the Guinness Beef Burger, and the dinner-time classic AAA house-cut Prime Rib Roast, along with crowd-pleasing shareable starters like Chicken Lips, wings, and Pachos®. Regulars know the King O’ Mud Pie is the perfect way to end a great night There’s something for everyone, whether you’re craving a light bite or a full sit-down meal
PaintNight!
Happy Hour offers great value on drinks and select menu items - perfect for unwinding after work or kicking off a night out with friends And on weekends, the brunch menu features satisfying, laid-back options that pair perfectly with a Caesar or mimosa
Come Eat, Drink, & be Irish!
800 Columbia St, New Westminster
Hours: 11AM - 12AM Sun-Thurs & 11AM - 1AM Fri-Sat
Website: www.kobcob.com
Instagram: @kellyobryansnewwest
Facebook: Kelly O'Bryan's & Carlos O'Bryan's New West
The Alchemy of Care: A Legacy of Canadian Clean Beauty
WRITTEN BY ASHLEY GONZALEZ RIVAS
PHOTOS
BY
THE SCENTUALS TEAM
At the core of Scentuals Natural & Organic Skin Care lies the understanding that skin care is a shared heritage, a canvas reflecting both a family’s history and the products that contribute to the backdrop of their lives The brand’s origin story isn't found in the sterile calculation of a laboratory, but within the vibrant warmth of a family home - sparked by a mother’s fierce, intuitive mission to cultivate natural healing for the people she holds most dear Since its start in 2008, the brand’s selection has grown to feature a sophisticated array of beauty oils, facial creams, cleansers, serums, body lotions, repair creams, multi-purpose liquid and bar soaps, aromatherapy roll-ons, and essential oils - with exciting new launches arriving throughout 2026.
In the heart of the home, perched by the kitchen sink, a single bottle of Scentuals gentle hand soap becomes a silent vessel of communal care. It is there for the child, whose small hands are still learning the world; for the parent, whose palms carry the weight of the day’s labor; and for the grandparent, whose skin, delicate as fine parchment, requires the softest touch. Each product is an offering to transform mundane necessities into routines of healing comfort. It is more than a collection of products; it is a universal language of care that speaks to every generation Today, the "from our family to yours" ethos remains the heartbeat of every formula, transforming the daily ritual of skincare into an act of deep, grounded love Their message is simple: ‘’Choosing Scentuals is choosing healthier living ’’
Each product is an offering to transform mundane necessities into routines of healing comfort. It is more than a collection of products; it is a universal language of care that speaks to every generation.
Proudly Certified Leaping Bunny, free of Animal Testing and adhering to ISO (International Organization for Standardization) protocols, Scentuals ensures that quality is at the forefront of their mission, building loyalty that stands the test of time through consistency. This ethical transparency is why the brand has found a permanent home in the hearts and aisles of major retailers across the nation.
Beyond the bottles and the botanicals lies a deeper narrative of longevity Scentuals is not a fleeting trend in a crowded marketplace; it is a legacy brand that helped define the natural movement long before it was fashionable. Scentuals remains an anchor of trustmoving confidently into the coming iterations of the skincare industry with the wisdom of the past and an eye fixed on healthier alternatives to our everyday essentials.
ore Hours: Monday to Friday, 12-5pm
ebsite: www scentuals com
stagram: @scentuals
kTok: @scentualscanada
cebook: Scentuals Natural & Organic Skincare
WORDS BY MONICA PETERSON IMAGES BY AARON WARD STUDIOS
Apex Fencing Academy recently opened its doors in Port Moody and is bringing the sport of fencing to the community. Eric Boisse, French Olympic champion, and Monica Peterson, 2012 Canadian Olympic fencer, are excited to share their knowledge and passion for a sport that has been an integral part of each of their lives. Apex is more than a fencing club - it’s a place where confidence grows, friendships form and the Olympic values of discipline, respect, and perseverance are woven into every lesson. A place that strives to be inclusive, accessible, welcoming and inspiring for anyone who walks through the door
Fencing is equal parts physical and mental, often being referred to as physical chess. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional fitness classes, offering both challenges to the mind and muscles.
A key aspect of Apex’s mission is community engagement. The club hosts camps, school workshops, birthday parties and introductory events aimed at making fencing accessible to everyone. The team feels strongly about creating an environment where kids and adults feel welcomed and supported - a space that allows people to challenge themselves and learn new skills. Fencing is equal parts physical and mental, often being referred to as physical chess. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional fitness classes, offering both challenges to the mind and muscles. For kids, fencing is an incredible way to channel curiosity, creativity and energy into something meaningful It improves agility, coordination, problem solving and focus
The club offers beginner child classes, adult classes, and a class entirely in French Beginner classes introduce fencers to footwork, bladework, bouting and basic refereeing Apex offers classes in two fencing disciplinesepee and sabre Epee is a thrusting weapon where the whole body is the target and sabre is a slashing weapon where the target is the upper body A free trial class is offered to new members This offer is a reflection of Apex’s core mission: to welcome the community with open arms and help people of all ages take their first step into the world of fencing
The club is located at 2805 Spring Street in Port Moody, steps away from Rocky Point Park and surrounded by many of Port Moody’s local restaurants and hot spots. The Inlet District is a vibrant, growing community that Apex is proud to be a part of. Apex aims to become a cornerstone of the Inlet District community - a hub where people can connect, move, learn and have fun, one lunge at a time. Whether you’re picking up a sword for the first time or returning to the sport, Apex is here to welcome you.
2805 Spring Street, Port Moody, BC, V3H
info@apexfencingacademy.ca (604)-767-APEX (2739) Instagram: @theapexfencingacademy www.apexfencingacademy.ca
Coaching Corner with Brian Cady
Making Positive Structural Changes
For many local business owners, Spring is when the calendar begins to fill again. Clients return. Staff settle back into routine. The pace starts to build. That makes this time of year a useful checkpoint, not for setting new goals, but for noticing what is already pulling on you.
If this year is starting to feel a lot like last year, it is worth paying attention. The same long days. The same decisions landing on your desk. The same pressure to stay involved in everything just to keep things moving.
Nothing changes if nothing changes
Most strain in owner-run businesses shows up in three places: time, team, and money Not enough time away from the business Too much reliance on a few people Cash flow that looks acceptable but never quite feels comfortable
These challenges are common and they usually do not come from lack of effort. They come from unclear roles, unclear priorities, and too much resting on the owner.
When structure is missing, owners fill the gaps with their own time. The business keeps running, but it never really lets go. Sound familiar? The first quarter of the year is still early enough to change that. Choose one area to tighten. One task to step out of. One decision that protects your time instead of consuming it.
If you want this year to run differently, now is the moment to act. This is exactly the kind of work I do with local business owners, and often one focused conversation is enough to change the direction of the year
Brian Cady Executive Business Coach
International Coaching Federation Member
www.effectuscoaching.group
“Most strain in owner-run businesses shows up in three places: time, team, and money. ”
Overcoming strain:
Which area can I tighten?
What needs to change to make this happen:
Which task can I step out of?
What needs to change to make this happen:
What can I do to protect my time?
What needs to change to make this happen:
Start with a complimentary coaching session
Hellofriends!
Meet our Feature Pet
WORDS & PHOTOS BY WEIHSUAN LU
Luma is a gentle and energetic boy With his calm energy and curious nature, he has a quiet way of drawing people in Whether it’s through his soft expression or relaxed presence, Luma makes those around him feel at ease almost instantly
He loves slow walks through the neighbourhood, taking his time to sniff every corner as if he’s carefully reading his Instagram. Food is one of his greatest joys in lifetreats, snacks, and anything edible immediately have his full attention. Despite his strong love for food, Luma is mostly polite and very aware of the people around him.
Growing up in New Westminster has shaped him into the dog he is today Surrounded by friendly neighbours, familiar local shops, and welcoming streets, he has become a confident and social dog who truly belongs in his community On walks, he’s often recognized by name and happily accepts pets and greetings from familiar faces.
Luma also has an important role at Furis Pet Store, a small local pet shop in New Westminster, where he proudly serves as the “CEO” (Chief Eating Officer) of the store. While his duties mostly include supervising from a comfortable spot and sampling treats when appropriate, Luma represents the heart of the store - a focus on health, happiness, and thoughtful care for the community’s pets Many customers stop by to greet and pet him, and he has become a familiar and comforting presence for both humans and animals alike
Luma recently celebrated his third birthday, marking another happy milestone, and continues to enjoy a happy, healthy life surrounded by familiar faces and daily routines he loves. From neighbourhood walks to quiet moments at the store, his days are filled with good food, gentle care, and simple joys. New Westminster isn’t just where Luma lives - it’s where he’s grown up, built trust with the community, and quietly watches over the health and happiness of the pets around him.
Follow Luma:
