Brewery District Living magazine - Issue 7

PEOPLE, PLACES, & PETS IN OUR COMMUNITY

Brewery

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

Katherine Hall

Katherine Hall “Divine Light” by Selena Drake

Contributing Photographers / Artists Contributing Writers

Selena Drake

Diamond Dental Centre

Preeti Viriaia

Memories by Snehal

Mallory Gladman

RYH Design

Connect

Aaron Wylie

@floofystudios

Nadina Zarifeh

Brent Hayden

Katherine Hall

Selena Drake

Diamond Dental Centre

Nabila H

Elizabeth R Brian Cady

Preeti Viriaia

Mallory Gladman

Nadina Zarifeh

Brent Hayden

Katherine Hall

brewerydistrictlivingmagazine@gmail com

Every issue of Brewery District Living is an opportunity to discover something new in our community Whether it's meeting someone with a unique story to tell, finding a local business to support, or learning about an event happening close to home, there's always something worth exploring.

In Issue 7, meet a talented artist whose work has made a meaningful impact in New Westminster and beyond, and discover the inspiring story behind Tia Shells, a local family business transforming hand-collected shells into beautiful works of art while creating lasting family memories along the way

There's plenty more to explore throughout this issue. Mark your calendar for the return of Soda Fest in Sapperton this September, where craft soda, delicious alcohol-free beverages, and family fun take centre stage. Learn how Diamond Dental Centre is helping patients smile with confidence through a modern alternative to braces. Gain practical business insights in our Coaching Corner, and discover local businesses, services, and community events in our Marketplace.

And of course, don't miss this issue's Feature Pet, an adorable and resilient rescue from Korea who reminds us to slow down, appreciate the little things, and find joy in everyday moments

Thank you for making Brewery District Living part of your summer. We hope this issue inspires you to explore our community, support local businesses, and enjoy everything our neighbourhood has to offer.

Sincerely,

KatherineHall

Love for Brewery District

Sapperton has changed so much since I lived there over 30 years ago but what remains is the walkability and the sense of community Love that the neighbourhood is a blend of character-filled heritage homes and new developments. This mix preserves the area's history while allowing for growth and modernization. The Brewery District has a young, urban vibe and I think it contributes to the neighbourhood's overall appeal!

- Selena , Artist & Writer

We love everything about Brewery District, especially BAK'D Cookies. We are addicted!

- Nabila , Diamond Dental Centre

What we love most about New Westminster is that it reminds you to slow down and appreciate the little things. Despite being part of Metro Vancouver, it has a welcoming small-town feel with so much character, history, and community. We love wandering along the Promenade, exploring River Market and Pier Park, stopping for pizza at L’Onore while our dog Chewie sits happily on the other side of the patio fence, and visiting local favourites like Steel & Oak, The Begbie, and River’s Reach. It always feels like home.

- Nadina & Brent ,

Proud Pawrents of Chewie

What I love most about the Brewery District and Sapperton neighbourhood is its unique blend of history, community, and growth It’s a welcoming area where local businesses, families, and creatives come together The neighbourhood has a strong sense of connection while continuing to evolve, making it an inspiring place to live, create, and support fellow local entrepreneurs

- Preeti , Tia Shells

What's not to love? I always enjoy my experience at Newest Smile Dental The staff are welcoming and friendly and the appointments are very efficient. Then I get to treat myself afterwards with a mouth-watering cookie from BAK’D Cookies! There are some hidden gems in this historic neighbourhood, including my favourites - The Zesty Lemon Clothing Co. and the relatively new Captain’s Oven Pizza.

-

Mallory

, The Soda Fest & Sapperton Business COllective

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

Artist Spotlight:Selena Drake

Selena Drake is a West Coast artist and writer specializing in fluid painting, acrylic pour abstracts, and expressive landscapes. Her portfolio includes acrylic and oil paintings, resin pieces, and unique gifts inspired by nature and spirituality. After losing her mother, Selena found healing through intuitive art, which she chronicled in her book “Journey of an Accidental Artist.” Influenced by Bob Ross and Peter Dranitsin, her work is featured in galleries, stores, wellness centers, restaurants and artisan markets.

Since her 2018 debut, Selena's art has been shown at venues such as Gallery on 12 Street, Pacific Arts Market, Monika’s Art Boutique, Crescent Beach Gallery, The Gallery George, and Anvil Centre She exhibits locally with New West Artists and currently features work at Wild Thyme Restaurant and Launch Rehab Physiotherapy Her painting "Divine Light" was selected for last year's juried exhibition, The Visual Dialogue on Death and Dying, hosted by Century House and the New Westminster Hospice Society. th

Selena lives in Maple Ridge with her husband, Randell, with whom she has shared nearly forty years Their early years were spent in Sapperton and they lived across from the Royal Columbian Hospital, where Selena gave birth to their two sons Both sons are now grown and married In 2021, Selena’s connection to Royal Columbian Hospital came full circle when she painted wall murals in the Columbia Tower stairwell at the same hospital where her children were born Coincidentally her son, Brandon Drake, is the current store manager at Save-On-Foods Sapperton

After a successful career in the technology sector, Selena experienced a mild stroke in 2023. This life event led her to retire from the corporate world and embark on a journey focused on healing through creating art, journaling, mystical exploration and adventures with her family and her dogs, Thor and Loki.

Follow along!

selenadrakeart.com

Email: selenadrakeart@gmail.com

Instagram: @selenadrakeart

FEATURE ARTWORK

The light shining down through the clouds is often referred to as divine light or God light To me, it evokes thoughts of heaven or the other side As a child, whenever I saw this light, I would gaze upward in hopes of seeing angels The serenity of this landscape brings feelings of peace, meditation, and unity with nature

“To me, it evokes thoughts of heaven or the other side. As a child, whenever I saw this light, I would gaze upward in hopes of seeing angels. The serenity of this landscape brings feelings of peace, meditation, and unity with nature.”

This painting was chosen for The Visual Dialogue on Death and Dying hosted by Century House and the New Westminster Hospice Society. November 2025.

Diamond Dental Centre

Discover the Invisalign® Difference at Diamond Dental Centre: A

Modern Solution to Braces

PRESENTED BY DIAMOND DENTAL CENTRE

If you've been thinking about straightening your teeth, there's never been a better time to discover the benefits of Invisalign® At Diamond Dental Centre, we're dedicated to transforming smiles with personalized Invisalign® treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.

As a modern alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign® uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gently move your teeth into their ideal position The virtually invisible aligners provide a discreet and comfortable way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile, without the metal wires and brackets associated with conventional braces.

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign® is its convenience Because the aligners are removable, you can continue enjoying your favourite foods and maintain your regular brushing and flossing routine with ease There are no dietary restrictions, and keeping your teeth clean throughout treatment is simple.

Invisalign® aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic, helping reduce the irritation that can sometimes occur with traditional braces Most patients find they have little to no impact on speech, making them easy to wear throughout the day

Using advanced digital technology, Invisalign® treatment is carefully planned to provide precise and predictable tooth movement You'll simply switch to a new set of aligners every few weeks as directed, with fewer office visits typically required than with traditional braces

Beyond creating a more confident smile, straighter teeth also improve your oral health by making it easier to between teeth and reducing the risk of tooth decay and disease associated with misaligned teeth

Whether your goal is to improve your smile, your confid or your oral health, Invisalign® offers a discreet, conve orthodontic solution for many patients. A consultation the team at Diamond Dental Centre can help you explore options and create a treatment plan that's right for you

Case 1:

Treatment type: whitening, replaced composite bonding.

Treatment time: 1 day (for composite bonding)

Our patient, a young mother of two. Had some work done before which she wasn’t happy with. Porcelain veneers were not in her budget or timeline at this stage in her life We came up with a solution involving whitening and replacing composite bonding, choosing to go with a brighter shade to balance out the overall shape and colour of her teeth

Case 2:

Treatment type: Invisalign®, whitening, cosmetic composite bonding

Treatment time: just under 12 months (for Invisalign®)

We enhanced an already beautiful smile using Invisalign®, whitening, and cosmetic composite bonding During treatment, our patient wore Invisalign® aligners while utilizing in-aligner whitening gels to brighten her smile while improving the overall position of her teeth

Once we were satisfied with the shade and position of her teeth, we selectively restored her chipped teeth and adjusted proportions to create a harmonious and natural smile

See

you soon!

#103 - 129 E Columbia St, New Westminster, V3L 3V7

Website: www.diamonddentalcentre.ca

Phone: (604) 449-7689

Email: reception@diamonddentalcentre.ca

Instagram: @diamonddentalcentre.nw

Facebook: Diamond Dental Centre NW

We are proud to have one of the only wheelchair lifts in BC. A patient can stay in their chair and receive dental care comfortably. Both manual wheelchairs and power chairs can accessit,withnotransferrequired

Coaching Corner with Brian Cady

The Cost of Staying the Same

As summer arrives, many people start thinking about the changes they want to make

It might be in business. It might be in a career. It might be health, finances, relationships, or simply how time is being spent.

Change usually has an obvious cost

It may cost money, time, energy, focus, or an uncomfortable conversation But staying the same has a cost too It is just easier to ignore

Another year of stress has a cost. Another year of working hard without getting ahead has a cost. Another year of avoiding an important decision has a cost Another year of missed opportunities has a cost

Whether the issue is business, career, leadership, or personal growth, the pattern is often the same. The longer something is avoided, the more expensive it becomes.

Small problems grow

Habits become harder to change

Opportunities pass

Energy gets drained by the same unresolved issue

The cost of change is usually visible The cost of staying the same is often hidden.

This summer, take ten minutes and ask yourself one question: What is it costing me to stay where I am? Write down the first three answers that come to mind

Awareness creates clarity, and clarity creates better decisions

If you would like an outside perspective, I offer a complimentary 30-minute coaching conversation to help identify what is working, what is not, and where your biggest opportunities may be.

Brian Cady

Certified Professional Coach Effectus Coaching Group

www effectuscoaching group

Office 604-416-2619

Mobile 604-328-9309

“The cost of change is usually visible. The cost of staying the same is often hidden.”

What is it costing me to stay where I am?

Write down the first three answers that come to mind

Start with a complimentary coaching session Take the step!

How many sea creatures can you count?

VIRIAIA

PREETI VIRIAIA

Tia Shells: From Family Memories to Coastal Art

Tia Shells began in July 2025 from a simple family moment that sparked a creative journey. While visiting my husband’s family cabin on Gambier Island, my daughter Tiana and I spent our days collecting shells along the shoreline. As we sorted through our treasures, she looked at me and said, “Let’s paint the shells.” That simple suggestion became the beginning of a business built on creativity, family, and a love of the ocean

What makes Tia Shells unique is the story behind every piece Every shell used in my artwork is carefully hand-picked, cleaned, and selected for a specific design. I work with each shell’s natural shape, texture, and beauty to create one-of-akind pieces that celebrate the coast and the memories connected to it.

My connection to shells also comes from my Fijian heritage My family has a home in Fiji, where my parents spend part of the year Many of the smaller shells featured in my candle collections are hand-picked from the islands by my father and his local friends Bringing these shells into my work allows me to combine two places that are deeply meaningful to me: the beaches of British Columbia and the islands of Fiji.

Although Tia Shells started with an idea from my daughter, it has truly become a family business. Tiana continues to help collect shells, paint, and join me at local artisan markets My baby comes to every show, and my husband is my biggest supporter He carefully cleans and prepares many of the shells before they become part of my artwork and is always encouraging me behind the scenes Some of my favourite memories have been building this business together as a family.

I launched Tia Shells while on maternity leave after having my baby During a season of life that was both beautiful and challenging, creating became an important outlet for me Working with shells gave me a way to express my creativity, find balance, and build something meaningful for myself and my family. What started as a hobby quickly grew into a thriving small business.

I am a perfectionist by nature, and that attention to detail is reflected in every piece I create. Countless hours go into selecting, cleaning, painting, designing, and finishing each item Every shell is carefully considered, every detail thoughtfully placed, and every piece is made with pride I believe handmade art should feel special, and I strive to create pieces that are as unique as the shells themselves

Since launching in 2025, I have focused on creating original shell-based artwork and home décor inspired by the coast. I was one of the earliest local artisans in New Westminster to specialize in handcrafted shell art, developing my own style through creativity, dedication, and a genuine passion for the craft Every design is made by hand, and no two pieces are exactly alike

In addition to decorative trays, ornaments, prints, and seasonal collections, I also create custom shell favours and gifts for weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays, corporate events, and other special occasions. I love helping people celebrate meaningful moments with unique keepsakes inspired by the ocean.

One of my greatest joys is meeting customers at local markets and sharing the stories behind my work I love hearing how a piece reminds someone of a childhood beach trip, a favourite vacation, or a special family memory Through Tia Shells, my goal is to create meaningful art that brings coastal beauty, nostalgia, and joy into people’s homes.

You can find Tia Shells at local artisan markets throughout the Lower Mainland, at Churi Market in New Westminster, and on Instagram @tia shells.

Follow along!

Find us at Churi Market in New Westminster, and local artisan markets throughout the Lower Mainland Instagram: @tia shells

Email: viriaiap@yahoo com

WORDS

& PHOTOS BY

MALLORY GLADMAN

GRAPHICS BY RYH DESIGN

The Soda Fest is coming back this fall to the Sapperton district in New Westminster! Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 13th from 11:00am-5:00pm at Sapperton Park and Field This event celebrates local craft soda and nonalcoholic beverages with a day of family fun, beverage tastings, live music, and community connection The Soda Fest is hosted by Sapperton Business Collective (SBC) in partnership with the City of New Westminster, Heartberry Soda, City to Suburb Realty, ShareWares and Tourism New West.

This event celebrates local craft soda and nonalcoholic beverages with a day of family fun, beverage tastings, live music, and community connection.

So… who is SBC? We are a collective of local business owners striving to support the local businesses in the Sapperton and Brunette Creek areas in New Westminster. Our mission is to empower and support the vibrant business community in the Sapperton and Brunette Creek neighbourhoods of New Westminster. As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to fostering economic growth, creating opportunities for collaboration, and ensuring that our neighbourhood continues to thrive as a welcoming, inclusive, and innovative place to live, work, and play

Last fall, we put on the first-ever Soda Fest, which brought out over 1,000 participants on a beautiful September day. This year, we are coming back bigger and better with more local soda companies, live music, and now more local business vendors of all kinds! We want to celebrate all the amazing business offerings in Sapperton, from boutique shops to great restaurants and pubs. The historic Sapperton district is a family-friendly neighbourhood that is full of unique charm This annual event helps create more visibility to our amazing community and shops in a super fun way!

Along with being an economic driver, our events aim to be as sustainable as possible Some Zero Waste Initiatives we implement at The Soda Fest include partnering with ShareWares for our reusable tasting cups experience, having minimal waste from vendors except soda cans (collectible and recyclable deposits), and zero generators (live music power and no food trucks allowed).

The search is on for vendors and collaborators for this event! It takes a village to create a successful community festival, from sponsors and vendors to volunteers. If you would like to be a part of this event and learn more, please reach out to events@visitsapperton.com.

We appreciate your support and involvement. Let’s make this year’s festival amazing!

Vendor Application & Sponsorship Opportunities: Please email Mallory at events@visitsapperton.com

Volunteer Opportunities: volunteersignup.org/7EXCT

Website: www visitsapperton com/the-soda-fest/ Instagram: @visitsapperton

Meet our Feature Pet

WORDS BY NADINA ZARIFEH & BRENT HAYDEN

PHOTOS BY AARON WYLIE, @FLOOFYSTUDIOS, NADINA ZARIFEH & BRENT HAYDEN

The Little Things, According to Chewie

Some souls are simply meant to find you.

Chewie came from a kill shelter in Korea. A friend shared his photo on Facebook with a simple plea: “Someone save this little bean He only has a few days left ” My husband saw the post and instantly fell in love There was something in Chewie’s eyes that seemed to say, “Save me!”

From the moment we brought him home, he settled in as though he’d always belonged It quickly became his world, and we were simply living in it

Named after Chewbacca because of the fluffy look and colouring he had in his shelter photo, Chewie somehow grew into the name perfectly. Instead of barking, he’d often make a funny little throaty grumble that sounded remarkably like the famous Star Wars character.

Chewie is a 12-year-old Pomeranian-Sheltie mix, but his personality is entirely his own. Stoic. Resilient. Loving. And just a little bit judgy He carries himself with confidence, sitting proudly in his stroller like royalty while observing the world around him You can almost see the wheels turning as he studies people, deciding whether they’re worthy of his attention

He has never been a dog in a hurry

Walks happen at Chewie’s pace If he decides the middle of the sidewalk is the perfect place to stop and sit, then that’s exactly where you’ll be parked until he’s ready to go again Chewie loves to experience the world through his eyes and his nose. He’ll quietly watch people, breathe in the fresh air, and take in everything around him. He loves the ocean, lakes, and the smell of the water, even though he has little interest in swimming despite having two swim coach parents and an Olympic medallist as a dad When he does walk, his front paws bounce in tiny little circles, looking as though he’s treading water, which never fails to make people stop and smile.

Every morning begins with Chewie stretching himself out across the bed, rolling from side to side while making his happy little huffing sounds until he gets our attention. It’s his way of saying good morning, and somehow it makes us smile every single day At mealtime, he’ll snap his head dramatically in one direction as if to say, “Throw my kibble!” When we toss a piece, he’ll chase it, pounce on it, and sometimes even bat it around before finally deciding to eat it. At night, he quietly inches closer until just one paw is touching us. He’s never been a cuddly dog, but somehow that tiny gesture says everything

Chewie has overcome more health challenges than most dogs ever should. Through epilepsy, pancreatitis, severe allergies, surgeries, and months of being unable to walk because of immune-mediated polyarthritis, his spirit has never wavered He has always carried himself with resilience, as if to say, “I’m not done yet.”

We don’t have children, but Chewie has filled our home with more love, laughter, and perspective than we ever imagined He has taught us that life isn’t about rushing from one thing to the next. It’s about slowing down, noticing what’s around you, and finding joy in the smallest moments

If Chewie could speak one sentence to the world, it would simply be: “Appreciate the little things ” Looking back, we realize that’s exactly what he’s been teaching us all along

Appreciate the little things.

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