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RIVER DISTRICT LIVING MAGAZINE

ISSUE 01

RIVER DISTRICT L I V I N G

OUR COMMUNITY

GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT

HOT CHOCOLATE FEST

BLOOMS AND BEAUTY

AWARD-WINNING WHISKY

INSIDE

Flowers for Valentine’s

Discover River District florist: Blooms by Table & Co.

Hot Chocolate Fest

Check out HCF at our very own Boketto Tea Bar

Award Winning Whisky A hidden gem on our doorstep

Setting Your Dog Up for Success With trainer & behavioural consultant, Holly Chen

INSIDE

A Touch of Art

Explore surface pattern design with Juliana Silva

Love for River District Why we love it here

Meet our Pet of the Month Have you met Shine the Jindo?

River District Living Real Estate Katherine Hall, your exclusive River District REALTOR®

RIVER DISTRICT LIVING

www.riverdistrictliving.ca riverdistrictliving.ca@gmail.com @riverdistrictliving @riverdistrictlivingmagazine @riverdistrictlivingrealestate

Land Acknowledgement

We recognize and acknowledge that River District is situated on the unceded traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

Contributing Writers

Contributing Photographers Kristine Virata Linh Nguyen Cheery Hayashi Katherine Hall Scott Thompson Editor-in-Chief Katherine Hall

Emily Weeks Juliana Silva Agnes Lee Matt Lee Wesgroup

Kristine Virata Linh Nguyen Scott Thompson Katherine Hall

Content Director Katherine Hall

Holly Chen Juliana Silva Agnes Lee Matt Lee

Cover Art Mural by: Drew Young Photo by: Katherine Hall

Contributors KRISTINE VIRATA

LINH NGUYEN

SCOTT THOMPSON

Founder, Owner, Creative Director, Head Florist at Blooms by Table and Co.

Co-Owner, Operations Officer and Baker at Boketto Tea Bar

Founder, Distiller at Mad Laboratory Distillery

JULIANA SILVA

HOLLY CHEN

AGNES & MATT LEE

Visual Artist, Founder Juliana Silva Studio

Founder, Principal Trainer & Behaviour Consultant, Honourable Hound Dog Training

Proud Pawrents of Shine the Jindo

Dear Neighbours Thank you so much for subscribing to our editorial magazine! This is our newest way to connect with our River District community and showcase and appreciate the River District Living lifestyle that we are so lucky to enjoy here in our beautiful neighbourhood. This was intended to be a simple newsletter at first, but after receiving so much amazing content from our local contributors and friends of River District, a magazine was the only way to do it all justice.

The support of this community has been a huge influence in my life and really helped shape a path toward doing what I love! As you may know, this journey of creating River District Living has inspired me to become a licensed Real Estate professional. If you have questions about buying or selling a home in River District, or if you would like to be featured in future issues of River District Living Magazine, please get in touch with me. Sincerely,

Katherine Hall EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 4

Blooms by Table & Co. BY KRISTINE VIRATA PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTINE VIRATA Blooms by Table and Co. is an online floral boutique based in the River District, Vancouver, BC. For any inquiries or to place an order go to our website www.bloomsbytableandco.ca or email us at order@bloomsbytableandco.ca

Like many new moms, I became consumed by every aspect of Maya's well-being. However, amidst the constant anxiety, I yearned to rediscover myself again. This quest inspired me to create the loveliest garden party for her first birthday filled with flowers and dainty desserts, a symbol of my love for her and a celebration of the fact that I managed to keep her (and myself) alive that first year. Little did I know, that floralfilled setting would become the catalyst for discovering my purpose and ultimately founding Blooms by Table & Company. This business has grown alongside Maya, who serves as my muse and the inspiration behind our brand. Every flower-filled experience I create is a reflection of my love for her, conveyed through the beauty of flowers and carefully curated settings.

Founded and owned by Kristine Virata – a local River District resident. Kristine is the head florist and creative director for the brand. She also owns sister brand, Table and Company – the sister brand of Blooms and focuses on fully styled floral-filled event design and décor. We are proud to be a woman-owned local business, specializing in unique floral gift boxes for life’s many occasions. All our floral gift boxes are made with fresh flowers that are sourced locally. Each gift box is carefully curated and hand made with love. This venture initially started as a labor of love during a challenging period in my life. After welcoming my daughter Maya, I grappled with severe postpartum anxiety. As a naturally organized and detail oriented person, the unpredictability of first-time motherhood overwhelmed me. 5

My goal is to provide an experience that will inspire and empower you to celebrate the milestones in your life, no matter how big or small, and see it as an opportunity to connect with your loved ones in a truly enchanting manner.

There’s something magical about being immersed in these floral filled environments that transcends beyond beautiful decor. The settings we create are meticulously designed to evoke feelings that will make you feel alive, cherished, heard and celebrated. There’s something magical about being immersed in these floral filled environments that transcends beyond beautiful decor. It provides a lasting foundation for creating life long memories with those you hold dear.

Proudly produced in Vancouver, BC and named after the people who mean the world to us, our fresh arrangements comprise of carefully sourced seasonal blooms, both from local growers and international suppliers. Every element in our floral collection is carefully chosen to evoke joy, happiness and a sense of being cherished. From the selection of the most vibrant and beautiful blooms to the pairing of complementary colors and textures, we aim to create a visual symphony that delights the senses and create the signature Blooms by Table & Co luxurious feel.

We have started taking pre-orders for Valentine’s Day. We have limited quantities for each floral gift type (10 of each only). Last day for pre-orders will be February 5, 2024. We have a special offer for River District Residents this Valentine’s – they can save 10% when they place the order from hearing about us through this magazine. Offer valid until Feb 5th, 2024. Explore the Collection: The Maya The Alessandra The Mia The Alma

We have been working hard the past year to craft and design our products and wanted to offer affordable yet stylish and one of a kind gifts for our customers and their loved ones.

@bloomsbytableandco

Every element in our floral collection is carefully chosen to evoke joy, happiness and a sense of being cherished. 8

Hot Chocolate Fest BY LINH NGUYEN PHOTOGRAPH BY @THEBOKETTOLIFE

EXPERIENCING APRÈS SKI IN OUR OWN BACKYARD 9

Happy hour Tuesday-Thursday 3pm-6pm BOGO 50% off all drinks*. This promotion is now available on our online pick up ordering website too! Boketto Tea Bar is located in the heart of Wesgroup’s River District. We are an artisanal bubble tea café serving the best Bubble Tea, Liege Waffles, Soft Serve, and many more seasonal desserts. As a proud Whisk Matcha café partner, we exclusively use their premium Matcha and Hojicha, ensuring an unparalleled tea experience. Boketto Tea Bar is owned and operated by Linh & Chris. You will often see Linh in the café trying out many different recipes. We try our best to bring in premium ingredients to create unique, inspired menu items as the seasons change. We are proud to be participating for the first time the Hot Chocolate Festival 2024. In its 14th year running, we are bringing some of that hot chocolate fest fun to River District. The self guided festival starts on January 13th to February 14th. Grab a friend and come enjoy some hot chocolate with us. Pictured: Cypress Après Ski, a decadent blend of milk and dark chocolate with house-made toasted marshmallow fluff and fig drizzle, paired with cardamom shortbread filled with fig jam. Available until Feb 14, 2024. *HCF items not included in BOGO 50% offer.

Photo credit: @chow_withcheery

Boketto Après Ski: a smooth white hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and white chocolate Crispearls. Paired with a special dressed up, chocolate drizzled version of Boketto’s signature mochi liege waffle. Available until Feb 14, 2024.

Photo credit @riverdistrictliving *HCF items not included in BOGO 50% offer. 11

One of the smallest distilleries in Canada, Mad Laboratory is focused on making the smoothest, best tasting, small-batch craft spirits using hands-on techniques, and the finest locally grown malted barley. PHOTOGRAPHY BY @MADLABSPIRITS

Mad Laboratory BY SCOTT THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY @MADLABSPIRITS

Founded in 2014, Mad Laboratory is one of the earliest craft distilleries in Vancouver, and has a growing single malt whisky program, part of the rapidly developing BC whisky industry.

One of the smallest distilleries in Canada, Mad Laboratory is focused on making the smoothest, best tasting, small-batch craft spirits using handson techniques, and the finest locally grown malted barley. Founded in 2014, Mad Laboratory is one of the earliest craft distilleries in Vancouver, and has a growing single malt whisky program, part of the rapidly developing BC whisky industry. Recognized with numerous awards from the Canadian Artisan Spirit Awards, and Canadian Whisky Awards, you won’t likely be disappointed with what is being made at this humble little distillery. Founder/Distiller Scott Thompson handles the bulk of the operations, from brewing & distilling to bottling & distribution, not to mention marketing and event organization, and is always happy to get into the nitty gritty of operating a distillery with anyone who is interested.

With a long list of awards for almost all products, from Vodka, liqueurs, bottled cocktails, and gin, to single malt whisky, there are tons of great options for your home bar or next cocktail party, and if you haven’t tried any yet, it’s worth looking for. Often working with the community, you may have seen some bottles as part of local fundraisers, and during the height of COVID-19 a large portion of production was moved to producing sanitizer, almost all of which was donated to people and groups who needed it most. If you are interested in connecting with the distillery, we recommend contacting to make sure someone will be there to show you around, but if you can make the connection you will be happy you did. Discount Code: River10 for 10% off online orders valid until March 31, 2024. madlabdistilling.com 13

Recognized with numerous awards from the Canadian Artisan Spirit Awards, and Canadian Whisky Awards, you won’t likely be disappointed with what is being made at this humble little distillery.

BY HOLLY CHEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY WEEKS @EMILYJANE_PHOTOGRAPHY_

Honourable Hound is a science-based, positive reinforcement dog training company featuring a team of multicertified dog training professionals that offer 2 different types of services: in-home private lessons and group classes. EXCLUSIVE OFFER: $100 off your first month of private training with us using the code "RIVERDISTRICT" ! Offer expires February 29th, 2024 https://honourablehound.ca/

We are primarily private lessons specialists and go to clients all over Vancouver, Burnaby, New West & beyond. We specialize in helping people with reactivity, troublesome teenage dog antics, complex behaviour modification, and newly adopted dogs/puppies. We love setting people up to create a fantastic bond with their newest family member! We pride ourselves on making learning for both the dog & human easy and giving comprehensive, realistic, and fun solutions to all your worries. We’re here to teach you how to cultivate a relationship with your dog that can overcome anything that real life throws at you.

For group classes, we offer 4 different types of classes: Basic manners workshops, puppy classes, a reactive dog specialty class, and canine enrichment classes. Our basic manners workshops are short, 3 weeks, and focus on specific but common problems such as leash pulling or recall. Our puppy classes are comprehensive and designed to address all the common puppy problems, teach you how to properly & safely socialize your puppy, and give you practical advice when you're dealing with the puppy blues.

Our reactive dog class is where reactive dog parents can safely gather together and practice their training under the guidance of a certified trainer. Our canine enrichment classes are reactive dog friendly, based on real dog sports, and designed to be fun and accessible for the average pet parent. You don't have to want to compete and win ribbons in order to enjoy these classes. Our mission for 2024 is to begin launching our full spectrum of enrichment classes. Our nosework classes are already running in East Van and waitlists for the other classes are available on the website!

We love setting people up to create a fantastic bond with their newest family member! 16

Please get in touch with us by visiting the website and writing us an email or booking a free 30 minute call with our founder & lead trainer, Holly Chen. https://honourablehound.ca/

Juliana Silva Studio We welcome you to add a touch of art to your lifestyle! BY JULIANA SILVA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANA SILVA

Juliana Silva Studio

BY JULIANA SILVA PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANA SILVA Juliana Silva Studio is an online store and a creative space where other artists who have researched art and textiles are invited to collaborate and design more patterns and surfaces. We constantly expand, adding other viewpoints and artistic visions to this virtual space. Discount Code: RIVER10 (10% off entire order. Minimum purchase of $30.00) For Online Store: julianasilvastudio.com One use per customer Can’t combine with other discounts Active from today until Feb 29, 2024 Instagram: @julianasilva.studio shop@julianasilvastudio.com

These products are wearable, versatile, and of high quality and durability. They are manufactured and digitally printed on demand in Canada, utilizing various printing processes depending on the type of accessory or garment. At Juliana Silva Studio, I believe in contributing to a sustainable and responsible economy. I take great care in selecting suppliers that offer their employees fair wages and working conditions. Moreover, my products are designed to last, and the designs are inspired by personal art projects that aim to communicate an idea or concept. I am deeply committed to equality and believe everyone should have access to art. When you wear my designs, you're not only supporting me as an artist but also bringing art out of the gallery space, into your homes, and onto the streets, where it can enrich the lives of those around you.

My name is Juliana Silva, and I am a visual artist and a mother to a three-year-old. I specialize in painting, drawing, and textile sculpture and am keenly interested in surface pattern design. My goal is to create artwork that is accessible and appreciated by everyone. This drive and my new role as a mother have inspired me to establish Juliana Silva Studio. In my studio, I use my extensive knowledge and background in art to create a range of accessories, including scarves, tote bags, makeup bags, and home decor, such as cushion covers. 18

I take great care in selecting suppliers that offer their employees fair wages and working conditions.

Love for River District

What we love most about the River District is the dogs, of course! It's wonderful to see so many caring dog parents out walking, training and playing with their dogs on the many trails in and around the River District. This community is rapidly growing and it's clear that it's full of dog lovers. Whether we are watching someone try to get a seasonal photoshoot with their pup in front of our local Starbucks or seeing people enjoying their sunset walks by the river with their pooch, we know we are lucky to be a part of this community.

When I first moved to the River District, I was pregnant and immediately fell in love with the neighbourhood. It's a great place to raise kids. We love taking walks or bike rides in the park by the river, going to the small beach, and skipping rocks with my daughter. We have all the necessary amenities within walking distance. We used to visit three different playgrounds and are excited to hear that a new one will come soon. Living here feels like residing in a quiet little town within the city.

- Holly , Honourable Hound What I like most about the River District, is how while being so close to everything, it feels like a community out of the way, with a surprisingly quiet neighbourhood feel.

- Juliana , Juliana Silva Studio

- Scott , Mad Laboratory

I love the vibrant and growing community of the River District. I find it heartwarming seeing a lot of young families living in the community. We never get tired walking the trails by the river and enjoying the view. Its such a perfect place to raise my daughter and grow my business.

We appreciate how we are living steps away from abundant nature inside a bustling neighbourhood. Walking the peaceful trails by the river through changing seasons, it feels like we’re immersed in landscape paintings. But what we love the most about living in the River District are our neighbours, especially the dog community. They have been warmly accepting of Shine since day 1 and, as first time dog parents, many of these neighbours have given us helpful advice whenever we have questions about raising our dog. From the picturesque views to the friendly community, the River District is truly a special place to live in and connect to nature.

- Kristine , Blooms by Table & Co. What we like most about River District? The community! After opening a year in River District we have made so many friends and surely been made to feel a part of this wonderful community. The many dogs of River District does help too! Always love to make a new furry friend too.

- Agnes & Matt , Shine’s pawrents

- Linh , Boketto Tea Bar

Shine the Jindo

Pet of the month BY AGNES AND MATT LEE PHOTOGRAPHY BY AGNES AND MATT LEE

Shine is our bright and spirited Jindo-mix pup (half Jindo mixed with Jack Russell Terrier and American Pitbull), who just turned 2 on New Year’s Eve. Jindo dogs originate from Jindo Island in South Korea, so they are a rare breed. They are known to be very loyal and make excellent guard dogs. We adopted Shine via Furever Freed, a rescue organization based in BC, as well as through Together With Us (TWU), their South Korean counterparts. The first time we met Shine was at YVR airport, when he flew over from South Korea on September 5th, 2022. We have never been so excited to welcome anyone at arrivals before that extraordinary day. It changed our lives forever. Shine is very social and would like to say hi to every dog we see on our walks, if he could. Unfortunately, we cannot stay outside for hours, as Shine wishes. If your dog loves to PLAY, then they’re going to be great friends!

FOLLOW SHINE: Please check out Shine on his Instagram account: @shinethejindo

Ardea by Wesgroup PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHERINE HALL

I care about you and am always here to make your experience living in River District a good one. Everyone deserves to love where they live and to feel welcome and part of their community. This belief shapes the core of my journey as a Real Estate professional. River District is such an amazing, thriving, and community-focused neighbourhood. River District Living is all about community, and River District Living Real Estate is here to help you find your perfect River District home or invest in additional properties in the neighbourhood. Although it is always sad to see a neighbour move, I’m confident I can showcase your property in the best light and find buyers who will love it and continue the tradition of making beautiful memories there.

We have pre-sales happening right now for Harlin and Ardea, and there are some great incentives to be had! For those looking to move in sooner, turn-key pricing is available in Avalon 3, MODE, and Paradigm. Please look at the provided links and if you have any questions or need additional information, please contact me – I care about you and am always here to make your experience living in River District a good one because you are an important part of our community. Thank you, friends! Katherine 604 655 1230 riverdistrictlivingrealestate@gmail.com

Katherine Hall lives in River District and is a REALTOR® at Dexter Realty. 560 – 2608 Granville Street Vancouver, BC V6H 3V3 This communication is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. 24

Harlin by Wesgroup https://wesgroup.ca/residential/new -homes/harlin/ https://wesgroup.ca/harlin/

Ardea by Wesgroup https://wesgroup.ca/residential/ne w-homes/ardea/ https://wesgroup.ca/ardea/

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WESGROUP 25

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WESGROUP

Avalon 3 by Wesgroup https://wesgroup.ca/residential/new -homes/avalon-3/ https://wesgroup.ca/avalon3/

Paradigm by Wesgroup https://wesgroup.ca/residential/new -homes/discovery/ https://wesgroup.ca/paradigm/

MODE by Wesgroup https://wesgroup.ca/residential/ne w-homes/mode/ https://wesgroup.ca/mode/

ISSUE 01

T C I R DIST I V I N

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