INLET
DISTRICT LIVING
COMMUNITY
MAGAZINE
INSIDE
Discover the people, places, and pets in & around Inlet District, Port Moody
Hello Neighbours!
Summer is just around the corner, and Port Moody is alive with creativity, connection, and community spirit. In Issue 6 of Inlet District Living, we’re celebrating the people, places, and businesses that make Port Moody such a vibrant and inspiring place to call home.
From beautiful local art and repurposed creations to a lively gathering space where neighbours, entrepreneurs, and entertainers come together, this issue is filled with stories that capture the energy of the community Discover a charming gourmet shop featuring ultra-premium olive oils and traditional balsamic vinegars right here in the neighbourhood Explore innovative local services, and find inspiration for your home with custom closets, sliding doors, and stylish motorized blinds You’ll also find practical business advice in our Coaching Corner and discover local businesses and events in our Marketplace section. And, since no issue would be complete without our adorable feature pet, we are excited to introduce you to one cool Dood!
Here’s to sunshine, community, and another exciting season in and around the Inlet District. Thank you for reading!
Sincerely,
KatherineHall EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
INLET DISTRICT
L I V I N G
Inlet District Living recognizes and respectfully acknowledges the ancestral and shared traditional territory of the kʷikʷəƛəm (Kwikwetlem), qicəy (Katzie), qiqéyt (Qayqayt), q ʼʷa:nƛʼ ən (Kwantlen), Stó:lō (Sto:lo), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam) Peoples. We extend appreciation to live and work on this territory.
Cover Art
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director Advertising Sales
Katherine Hall
Katherine Hall “Flaxen Mane” painting by Lynda Smith
Contributing Photographers / Artists Contributing Writers
Lynda Smith Novus
3 Blind Mice
Brian Cady
Erica Salemink
Katherine Hall
Irena Gavrilov
Brave Brewing
Twin Sales Brewing
Kiran Rama
Cold Nose Studio
Lynda Smith
Monica Peterson Novus
3 Blind Mice
Brian Cady
Lori Weston
Amber Miller
Kiran Rama
Katherine Hall
ApexFencingAcademyisrunbyOlympicFencers, EricBoisse,OlympicChampion&MonicaPeterson, CanadianOlympian&multipletimenationalchampion, whoareexcitedtobringthesportoffencingtoour communitywithclassesavailableinEnglishandFrench!
Love for Inlet District
Clarity and calm can be heard when we traverse up trails flanking Noons Creek or wander through the thick forests near Sasamat Lake Peace and serenity are words that come to mind, and those necessities fill my tank whenever it is depleted The ocean also constantly calls me, whether its a short walk down Rocky Point Pier or an afternoon throwing a stick for the dog at Barnet Marine Park, the salty fresh air is only minutes from our home
- Lynda , Creator & Artist
What I love most about the Inlet District is how easy it is to enjoy life and feel connected to the community. There’s such a great mix of nature, good energy, and local charm, from breweries, markets, and unique shops to ice cream walks along the inlet, nearby beaches, and beautiful hiking trails. It’s welcoming, active, and truly feels like a place where everyone can enjoy a balanced and vibrant lifestyle.
- Lori , Olive the Best
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.
- Monica , Apex Fencing Academy
We moved to Port Moody to raise our family for the outdoor lifestyle and the community. But we missed the convenience of being steps away from shops, grocery stores etc. With the amenities at Inlet District - a movie theatre, multi-use sports courts, year-round synthetic ice rink and parents & kids lounge - you have the perfect blend of urban living, convenience and access to nature all in one placeideal for any young family
- Amber , Site B
We love how dog friendly and family friendly the area is! We love going out for a neighbourhood stroll with Bodie, checking out the many local breweries, trying out the food trucks, and having ice cream nearby at Rocky Point! It is such a vibe!
- Kiran , Proud Pawrent of Bodie
I’ve lived in Port Moody, in the Tri-Cities, for over 20 years. It’s practical, grounded, and easy to live in. You’ve got access to nature, solid neighbourhoods, and a pace that makes sense. People stay, businesses last, and the area keeps moving forward without losing what makes it special.
- Brian , Executive Business Coach ,
Effectus Coaching
ARTIST BIO
Lynda Smith raised her three children in Lillooet, BC. There, she spent many years cooking at the local hospital and in logging camps. Pursuing her childhood passion, Lynda trained horses and coached riders from 1997 to 2011 while based in Pitt Meadows. The family moved to Comox on Vancouver Island in 2012, where she left the horse industry and transformed a small urban lot from Lawn to Food production She built Lawn to Food Urban Farmstand at the end of their driveway where she spent 9 years selling produce, baking, art & garden creations to the neighbourhood Lynda competed on Food Network’s Chopped Canada where she shared her “Grow Food!” message nationally
Artist Spotlight: Lynda Smith , Junco Studio
LYNDA SMITH
In 2021, Lynda and her husband, David, relocated from Comox back to the Lower Mainland, where she started Junco Studio. Lynda is now a full-time creator and artist who works from home, or wherever her travels take her. She is intrigued and inspired by nature, her eight awesome grandchildren, growing food gardens, frugal homemaking, watercolour painting, mixed-media art, and textiles. She creates daily, whether in the kitchen, garden, woodworking shop, or art studio; you can always find her immersed in a project. Lynda is passionate about #insteading - a lifestyle in which one actively chooses to grow, nurture, upcycle, and beautify surroundings with available, or thrifted materials, instead of purchasing new.
WORDS & ARTWORK BY
FEATURE PAINTING
When I was a young girl, I had an excessive passion for horses Living in Vancouver wasn't very conducive to horseback riding, but as luck would have it, my family bought property in the interior of BC when I was 10 Within a few months, my lifelong dream came true: they purchased me a horse When most of my friends were riding their bikes around the block, I was galloping through the Cariboo countryside, weaving between the silver birch trees, and jumping over logs on my trusty steed.
This painting, titled Flaxen Mane, is a flashback to a time in my youth when I felt like an authentic version of myself. Adventurous, with a sprinkling of fear that I was often able to face, struggle through and overcome Somewhere along the way, I had lost some of that outgoing redheaded girl, right when I needed her the most
This
painting, titled Flaxen Mane, is a flashback to a time in my youth when I felt like an authentic version of myself.
Adventurous, with a sprinkling of fear that I was often able to face, struggle through and overcome.
When I started painting with watercolours in my late 50s, I felt a familiar fear - that fear of attempting something new and not wanting to fail. Gratefully, my desire to create something beautiful and a bit of courage, overtook those fears Nobody would ever have to see all the crumpled-up pieces of paper that came before this final product
The effort was completely worth it. Now, whenever I gaze at Flaxen's long mane, I recall my fingers getting tangled in its warm, twisted web. His sleek, glistening shoulder and soft, fuzzy muzzle bring joy and strength to my heart. Successfully capturing those feelings with paint on paperthat built my confidence to try whatever comes next.
Follow along:
www lawntofood com
Instagram: @junco studio
Facebook: Junco Studio
Shop on Etsy: ShopJuncoStudio
“Flaxen
I hesitated to start painting this piece Hearing those critical inner police. Claiming it’s far beyond my scope No schooling, no mentor, no hope.
You can ’ t do this, you ’ re not an artist. Who do you think you are? Egoist. You’ll just waste expensive supplies Smudge, overwork. Why even try?
My vision blurred, melting into mane, With highlights the colour of champagne. Shaded white blaze was a bluish grey, His coat, blends of chestnut and bay. I was drawn into the light and the dark. Birch trees with such a unique bark! Just paint! Let your enthusiasm overtake, Any fear you have about making a mistake.
~ Lynda
Mane” by Lynda Smith
PRESENTED BY NOVUS
The Novus Difference: Fastest, Top Most Reliable Internet in Metro Va
There’s a certain mythology around fast inte turbo button hidden deep in a data c whispering encouragement to fibre cable occasional ceremonial offering to the interne cords seem appropriate)
Tempting ideas. But the reality? A lot less mystical - and more intentional
In 2025, Novus was ranked the fastest internet in M Vancouver, as well as the most reliable and topprovider, verified by Ookla, the team behind Speedtes These rankings come from real users running real which means they reflect something far more important peak speeds: how the internet actually performs everyone is online at once
So, what does it take to get there?
Built for the Way People Actually Live
Internet usage today is… a lot. One person is streaming. Another is on a video call. Someone else is gaming. Meanwhile, a small army of smart devices hum quietly in the background Now multiply that across an entire building
In Metro Vancouver, where high-density living is the norm, networks need to handle that kind of demand without flinching. That starts with infrastructure. Novus has spent decades building a fibre-powered network designed specifically for residential communities - one that can move more data, more efficiently, all at once
Less lag, less buffering, more everything working exactly as it should
Speed Gets the Spotlight. Reliability Steals the Show
Customer Support, But Make It Human
Let’s be honest - calling your internet provider rarely sparks joy. Between the long wait times, scripted responses, and the sense that you’re talking to a system instead of a real person, it’s hardly a pleasant experience
Novus takes a different approach. As a local provider, its support teams are based right here in Metro Vancouver. They understand the buildings, the neighbourhoods, and h network itself
So when something goes wrong, it gets fixed - faste with far less back-and-forth.
No Fine Print Required
Internet plans can be a lot to unpack; hidden promotional pricing, contracts that somehow feel longe expected At Novus, things are refreshingly simple pricing, no contracts, and no surprises. Just internet th exactly what it promises.
Powered by Staying Local
For nearly 30 years, Novus has focused on one place: Vancouver. That focus matters. It means understandi realities of condo living, multi-unit buildings, and growing demand - and building a network that’s de specifically for it
No turbo buttons or magic tricks - just thoughtfully built infrastructure. Reliable performance, simple service, and a genuine connection to the community
Turns out, that’s more than enough to deliver the fastest internet in Metro Vancouver.
Experience the löyly in our authentic custom built saunas. Breathe in the scent of natural nordic pine, feel the soft heat, and let your worries melt away. Your sanctuary of silence is waiting for you at Sauna Suomi.
The closest you can get to Finland without a passport. Book your session at saunasuomi.ca
Smart Blinds, Closets & Sliding Doors
PRESENTED BY 3 BLIND MICE
Most homes are updated in pieces Blinds are purchased from one company, closets from another, and doors are often left as an afterthought. The result is a space that feels disconnected and does not function as well as it should.
3 Blind Mice was built to solve that.
Based in the Tri-Cities and serving Greater Vancouver, 3 Blind Mice focuses on three core areas of the home. Smart Blinds, Closets & Sliding Doors. Each one plays a role in how a home looks, feels, and works on a daily basis, and when they are planned together, the result is a space that works properly.
Smart Blinds are leading a shift in how homeowners manage light and privacy With updated Canadian safety standards removing cords, more people are choosing motorized solutions that are safer, cleaner, and easier to use Whether part of a smart home system or operated by remote, they are becoming a practical standard 3 Blind Mice also offers motor refits, allowing existing blinds to be upgraded without full replacement
Closets have also changed. A well-designed closet is not just storage. It creates order, saves time, and makes better use of available space. The focus is on clean, practical layouts that work in real homes. In addition to custom installations, 3 Blind Mice offers DIY closet systems and ready-to-install kits, giving homeowners and builders flexible options.
Sliding Doors are often overlooked, but they can make a significant difference. They allow you to divide space, add privacy, and create flexibility without major construction.
What makes the process different is how straightforward it is to work with 3 Blind Mice. Projects are measured properly, designed with real use in mind, and installed cleanly The goal is to keep it simple and get it right the first time
3 Blind Mice is built on over 20 years of experience in the industry Founder Brian Cady is the former owner of Sunburst Shutters & Closets in the Lower Mainland, where he spent two decades building and growing one of the most recognized window covering and closet businesses in the region. During that time, the company completed thousands of installations, earned multiple industry awards, and built a strong base of customer reviews.
In 2009, Brian co-founded 3 Blind Mice as a parallel brand. Following his exit from Sunburst in 2024, he has re-established it as an independent company with a clear and focused approach.
Today, the company specializes in locally manufactured products, lean production, and a focused range of house brands built in the Lower Mainland. 3 Blind Mice also supports a growing dealer network, working with partners who want access to proven products and systems
Most homeowners do not realize how much these three areas, light, storage, and space, affect how a home feels every day When they are done properly, everything works better
With a showroom in Port Coquitlam and service across Port Moody, Coquitlam, Burnaby, New Westminster, and Vancouver, 3 Blind Mice provides locally manufactured products, proper measuring, and clean installation.
Established 2009.
Get in touch!
www 3blindmice ca hello@3blindmice ca 604-235-1684
Proudly Canadian. Locally made. Most manufacturing completed right here in the Lower Mainland, supporting local trades, suppliers, and the Canadian economy Special offer for a limited time only T&C apply
Find the words:
Coaching Corner with Brian Cady
Clarity Comes Before Growth
Most business owners are working hard. That is rarely the issue.
The challenge is knowing what actually matters right now
In many local businesses, things are moving Sales are coming in, customers are being served, and the days are full From the outside, it can look like progress But internally, it often feels reactive. One issue leads to another, and there is very little space to step back and think clearly.
This is where clarity becomes valuable
After more than 20 years in business, and now working with owners across our local community, I continue to see the same pattern Businesses do not struggle because of a lack of effort They struggle because the focus is off
There is a natural progression every business moves through Creation, Chaos, Control, Prosperity, and Freedom Many local businesses operate somewhere between Chaos and Control Busy and capable, but constantly reacting.
A simple place to start is this: take ten minutes and ask yourself one question What stage am I actually in right now, and what matters most at this stage?
In Creation, it is about getting something to work In Chaos, it is about creating structure In Control, it is about building consistency and removing pressure from the owner
The next step is usually simpler than it feels, but it requires clarity
What many owners do not expect is how closely business and personal pressure are connected Decision making, responsibility, and time all start to overlap This is where business coaching often becomes more than just business It becomes a way to think more clearly, lead more effectively, and handle the weight that comes with growth.
You do not need to solve everything at once You need to understand where you are, and take the next step that actually moves things forward.
Clarity comes first Growth follows
Brian Cady
Executive Business Coach
International Coaching Federation Member
www effectuscoaching group
Office 604-416-2619
Mobile 604-328-9309
“There is a natural progression every business moves through. Creation, Chaos, Control, Prosperity, and Freedom.”
Take the step!
Finding Clarity:
Consider the following stages: Creation - getting something to work. Chaos - creating structure Control - building consistency & removing pressure from the owner
What stage am I in right now?
What matters most at this stage?
Start with a complimentary coaching session
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Phone: 604-469-6388
Email: inletnails@gmail com
Instagram: @theinletnailstudio www.inletnailstudio.com
Under new management since March 2024
Book your next service:
WORDS BY LORI WESTON PHOTOS BY ERICA SALEMINK
Olive the Best is a charming gourmet food shop nestled in Newport Village in Port Moody, specializing in ultra-premium extra virgin olive oils (the highest standard worldwide), and traditional balsamic vinegars from Modena, Italy, crafted without fillers or added flavouring Alongside these, we offer a carefully curated selection of high quality, unique gourmet foods and kitchen accessories designed to complement and elevate everyday cooking
More than just a specialty store, Olive the Best offers a unique tasting room experience where customers can sample and explore a wide range of olive oils and balsamic vinegars before finding their perfect match One of my favourite moments in the store is watching someone hesitate before tasting olive oil for the first time, unsure if they should sip it, only to be completely surprised by its smoothness, flavour, and complexity.
While the shop has been part of the community since 2019, I became the new owner in August 2025 Stepping into this role felt like the perfect fit at the right time Having lived in Port Moody and spent the last 15 years raising my family here, and with two of my three children currently in university, I was looking for something that aligned with both my personal and professional life The opportunity to work within my own community and contribute to it in a meaningful way was incredibly important to me.
One of my favourite moments in the store is watching someone hesitate before tasting olive oil for the first time, unsure if they should sip it, only to be completely surprised by its smoothness, flavour, and complexity.
Prior to raising my family, my background was in nursing, so health and wellness have always been central to how I live and what I value. That perspective naturally carries into the store. What we put into our bodies matters, and high-quality olive oil is a foundational part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Fresh, pure, unadulterated olive oil offers incredible health benefits, and I’m passionate about helping people understand and experience that difference
Beyond the products themselves, what truly excites me is the connection that happens around food. I love people, and I love being part of their tables. whether that’s through everyday meals, special gatherings, or thoughtful gift giving. We offer a variety of beautifully curated gift baskets, as well as custom options tailored to any occasion, from corporate orders and realtor gifts to wedding favours and personal celebrations Olive the Best is a place where customers can taste, ask questions, learn, and explore something new in a relaxed and personal environment
Being a small, independent shop in a world of big-box stores can feel intimidating at times. But I strongly believe that genuine service, product knowledge, and a commitment to quality will always stand the test of time Our team takes pride in offering a personalized experience, and we are deeply invested in the products we carry and the stories behind them
As more people seek out authentic, high-quality ingredients, I believe we are part of an exciting shift toward more mindful living. Whether someone is discovering olive oil for the first time or searching for the perfect gift, we love welcoming people into the store to taste, learn, and experience something new I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this industry and this community, and I look forward to continuing to share that experience; one taste, one conversation, and one connection at a time
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See you soon!
259A Newport Drive, Port Moody, BC, V3H 5C9
Phone: 604 492 0898
orders@olivethebest ca / info@olivethebest ca www olivethebest ca
Instagram: @olivethebest port moody
TikTok: @olivethebest port moody
Facebook: Olive the Best - Port Moody
How Site B Came to Be
November 2022
Site B was created with one purpose: to enhance our community.
Curated by founders with deep Port Moody roots and a business history dating back to 2007, the vision was to build something truly special - right where we live. We set out to create more than a venue. We wanted a space to collaborate, to work, to connect, and a destination for arts and entertainment to thrive.
Why Site B?
Sure, B is a great letter. A lot of our favourite things start with it - Books, Bikes, Beers, Brewed Coffee, Bears, Bocci... even Bean Bags.
But the real meaning behind Site B goes deeper
Site B is the alternative.
An alternative way to connect with your community and your potential
An alternative venue to celebrate your biggest milestones... or just any given Thursday.
Site B is the space you didn’
A space to work, network, and build partnerships. A space for arts and entertainment to come to life. t know you needed.
WORDS BY AMBER MILLER
PHOTOS BY IRENA GAVRILOV, BRAVE BREWING & TWIN SALES BREWING
Did Someone Say Beer?
Yes - we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to invest in a brewery just blocks away Brave Brewing was created to celebrate the people who dare to try something new The ones who take risks, do hard things, and step into the unknown - even when they’re afraid
That spirit shows up in everything we do, right down to the names of our beers:
First Date
Grace Under Pressure
Break a Leg
What About Entertainment, You Ask?
IYKYK.
(And if you don’t same But we do know we want to see what everyone’s talking about.)
At Site B, entertainment isn’t an afterthought - it’s part of the experience We love programming that surprises you, brings people together, and makes a random night feel like a story you’ll tell later
Dueling Pianos
Salsa Lessons & Dance Nights
Professional Wrestling
Comedy Shows
Improv
Local Pop-Up Markets
And that’s just the start Check out our full lineup of events on our website: www siteb life
Private Events at Site B –Whatever You’re Planning, We’re down
Looking for a space that’s flexible, fun, and anything but cookie-cutter? Site B is your go-to venue in Port Moody for unforgettable private events of all shapes and sizes.
With over 6,000 sq ft of open space, a vintage Airstream lounge, cozy chill zones, and built-in extras like games, AV gear, and bar service options - you can throw the kind of party people talk about long after it’s over.
Whether it’s a milestone birthday, grad party, retirement celebration, fundraiser, or a team wrap-up bash, Site B gives you the freedom to create a vibe that feels totally you
Book your next event on our website: www siteb life
A New Chapter
January 2025 we took collaboration to a whole new level…
Site B, TFN Coworking, Brave Brewing, and Twin Sails Brewing united.
It’s about smart collaboration, shared values, and making things better for our community. And right on trend for Site B, we welcome TFN - Not your typical Coworking Space! The Fountainhead Network (TFN) has always been a beacon for professionals looking for a vibrant, supportive coworking space. Now, we’re over the moon about our new partnerships, merging our efforts to create an even more dynamic and resource-rich environment. For a snapshot of what makes TFN an ideal choice for those seeking not just an office, but a community… The Fountainhead Network Coworking and Media Space: www thefountainheadnetwork com
Who Are We Now?
We are Site B Events, TFN Coworking, Twin Sails Brewing, and Brave Brewing
Collectively, we are a group of like-minded people and businesses focused on bringing great entertainment - and even better people - together. We exist to create spaces where people can work, socialize, collaborate, connect, and genuinely enjoy the community they’re part of.
Same heart Bigger vision Stronger together
Check us out!
Site B, 3012 Murray Street, Port Moody BC V3H
Instagram: @sitebcommunity
Facebook: Site B Event Venue + Coworking Space
Website: www.siteb.life
The Fountainhead Network
Instagram: @fountainheadnetwork
Facebook: The Fountainhead Network Coworking Website: www.thefountainheadnetwork.com
Twin Sails Brewing
Instagram: @twinsailsbeer
Facebook: Twin Sails Brewing
Website: twinsailsbrewing com
Brave Brewing
Instagram: @brave brewing
Facebook: Brave Brewing Company
Website: brave beer
TheFountainhead Network Coworkingand MediaSpace
Meet our Feature Pet
WORDS BY KIRAN RAMA
PHOTOS BY KIRAN RAMA & COLD NOSE STUDIO
Meet Bodie, the Mini Goldendoodle! Bodie is the sweetest dood you’ll ever meet (that’s right! So to all the men out there… there’s some competition on the block). Talk about heart charmer and BIG time cuddler, Bodie is there to make all your worries go away. He’s not your average dog though, we call him a floofy human. As he’s half golden retriever and half poodle, he certainly has traits from both breeds. He is social, but can randomly be selective with dogs (we call this the “too cool” attitude). He likes to instigate and ruff play on his terms - yes, his terms. He likes to *sweetly* beg strangers for treats as he knows they can’t say no He is able to convince you with those beady black human looking eyes! His personality is one of a kind, hence why we think he may be more than just your average dog
The amount of affection and love Bodie has to share will make anyone’s day in the neighbourhood.
Some of his favourite things: cheese (don’t say that out loud), new toys (loves a good tug-o-war), bully sticks, and of course, cuddling.
We love how dog friendly and family friendly Port Moody is! We love going out for a neighbourhood stroll with Bodie, checking out the many local breweries, trying out the food trucks, and having ice cream nearby at Rocky Point! It is such a vibe!
You will find Bodie either in the neighbourhood playing ball, out on a patio on a summer day, going up the mountain for a hike, or relaxing and cuddling at home with his family Bodie is always up for an adventure - as long as he has the time + place, he’ll be there! Do dogs get FOMO too?
If you see Bodie in the neighbourhood, don’t hesitate to come say hi! It only takes a little bit of eye contact and a smile for him to approach you and say hi and, if you’re lucky, he may throw in a kiss too!
Follow along:
Instagram: @mini dood bodie
PHOTO BY COLD NOSE STUDIO
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Marketplace Inlet District Living
