Issuu

RIVER DISTRICT

GENERAL

PREVENTATIVE CARE

COSMETIC DENTISTRY CLEAR ALIGNER ORTHODONTICS

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

SURGICAL CARE

Dear Neighbours

Summer is just around the corner, and River District is blooming with creativity, connection, and community spirit In Issue 20 of River District Living, read all about the people, places and businesses helping our neighbourhood thrive

From beautiful local art and stunning floral creations to delicious low-and-slow BBQ dishes brought right to Town Centre, this issue explores a feast for the senses We also share important information about innovative local services, meaningful projects and welcoming communitiesjust a few of the things that make River District an amazing place to call home. Speaking of home, you’ll also find inspiration for your spring cleaning and organizing with custom closets and a way to beat the heat this summer with stylish motorized blinds. Readers can discover local businesses and events in out Marketplace section, and small business owners will find practical guidance on gaining clarity in business in our Coaching Corner. And we celebrate alongside our very adorable feature pet, Mei, who celebrates her birthday on June 9th!

Here’s to longer days, sunny moments, and another season of community in and around the River District Thank you for reading!

Sincerely,

KatherineHall

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Yo-Bones BBQ Catering

Comforting flavours, meaningful experiences

Canadian Apartment Properties REIT A wonderful community & great neighbours

Community Day at Fraser Lands Church

A free community celebration for all ages

Kids Activity Page

Fun puzzles, games, & colouring

Novus: The Feel Good Network

The #1 fastest internet in Metro Vancouver

South Vancouver Neighbourhood House

The Reframing South Vancouver Initiative

Bubuka

Showcasing the beauty & art of flowers

Artist Credit: D W & Xiameng, Sip & Flou

Coaching

RIVER DISTRICT

L I V I N G

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

Cover Art

“Golden Hour - Fraser River”

Painting by D W and Xiameng, Sip & Flou

Editor-in-Chief & Content Director Advertising Sales

Katherine Hall

Contributing Photographers / Artists

D.W and Xiameng, Sip & Flou

Yoshi Yoshikawa

CAPREIT

Novus

Fraser Lands Church

Katherine Hall

Abby Liwag

3 Blind Mice

Brian Cady

Connor Desharnais

Kiko Kwok

Paige Lorraine Photography

South Vancouver Neighbourhood House

Katherine Hall

Contributing Writers

D W and Xiameng, Sip & Flou

Yoshi Yoshikawa

CAPREIT

Sharon Shibu Novus

Fraser Lands Church

Albert Chan

Abby Liwag

Roland Liwag

3 Blind Mice

Brian Cady

Connor Desharnais

Kiko Kwok

Katherine Hall

riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com www.riverdistrictliving.ca

Vienna Jeffery

Maeya Jones

Prabhi Deol

Cherry Wong

Liza Bautista

Felicity Gutierrez

Connect with us: @riverdistrictlivingmagazine @riverdistrictliving @riverdistrictlivingrealestate

RiverDistrictLiving Magazine

Music & Movement

Love for River District

Over the years, Vancouver has grown deeply meaningful to us, especially the River District, where our daughter’s family chose to settle. We are drawn to the neighbourhood’s gentle rhythm: the calm flow of the Fraser River, the softness of the mountain air, the warmth of friendly neighbours, and the presence of nature woven into everyday life.

- D.W and Xiameng , Sip & Flou , Artists

Life in River District has a natural rhythm that’s hard to beat. A quick stop for a latte, an evening stroll by the water, and plenty of great spots to eat or unwind - all just a short walk away. It’s vibrant yet relaxed, making each day feel full without ever feeling busy.

- Sharon , CAPREIT

There are many things to love about the River District! All the cute dogs and babies, the Riverfront Park walk, and the shops and nearby amenities in walking distance We love the diversity of the River District community and are very excited for the new SVNH operated Salmon Stone Childcare Centre located at 3010 East Kent Avenue South

- Felicity & SVNH Team , South Vancouver Neighbourhood House

River District: A Vibrant Community at Our Doorstep. It's been exciting to see a new vibrant, family friendly neighbourhood literally grow right in front of us at our doorstep over the past 10 years. We love how all the homes, restaurants, and businesses have been interwoven together into a walkable community experience We look forward to seeing how it continues to unfold and how we as a church can be of service and a blessing to those who live in the area

- Albert , Fraser Lands Church

When I forget to plan anything but get the sudden urge to go and do something, the River District has me covered. If I feel like I need to get the kids some sun, we can bike the Foreshore Trail. If we need a quick meal, we typically head to Sushi Mura because the kids love it. If we need a sweet pick-me-up or dessert, we swing by Boketto. I can go to Spice Wax Bar for instant self care. And Save-On-Foods has saved us many times whenever we ran out of milk or eggs.

- Abby & Roland , Bubuka.ca

Beyond the food, Yo-Bones is deeply rooted in community One of the most memorable examples comes from the River District, where the team began serving during a time when the area was still under heavy construction. Initially expecting most of our customers to be construction workers, we were surprised when new residents started stopping by, trying the BBQ, and asking when the truck would return. That warm, welcoming feeling left a lasting impression and turned the location into a favourite stop for the team.

- Yoshi , Yo-Bones BBQ Catering

I like River District because it feels new but not rushed. It’s walkable, close to the water, and people actually use the neighbourhood. It doesn’t feel like a shortcut or a stopover. It feels like somewhere you could settle in, build routines, and enjoy the pace without feeling boxed in.

- Brian , Executive Business Coach , Effectus Coaching

What we love most about the River District is that it’s such a beautiful and calm place to live, for us and Mei! We love taking walks along the riverside and our human and dog neighbours are always so friendly It’s a great area to get some fresh air and go for a stroll

- Connor & Kiko , Proud Pawrents of Mei

ARTISTS BIO Artists Spotlight:

Sip & Flou

We are the artists behind Sip & Flou, known as D.W and Xiameng. Based in China, we visit Vancouver each year to spend time with our daughter, who now calls this city home. While we do not speak English fluently, painting has become our language, a quiet, expressive way to connect with this place and its people

Painting has naturally become our way of holding onto these moments. During our stays, we spend our days walking through the neighbourhood, taking photos, observing light and movement, and translate those impressions into watercolour. Each piece reflects not only what we see, but how we feel, the stillness, softness, and quiet beauty that often goes unnoticed Through this process, painting also becomes a way for us to slow down and remain present

Through Sip & Flou, we hope to share more than visual impressions of a place, but a gentle reminder - especially for young people navigating constant pressure and fast-moving routines Each piece is a small space to pause, an invitation to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the present moment Our work reflects a simple belief: that art can be a gentle form of care Not only something to look at, but something to sit with, to feel alongside, and perhaps to find a moment of calm within.

WORDS & ARTWORK BY D W AND XIAMENG, SIP & FLOU

“Golden Hour - Fraser River” by D.W and Xiameng , Sip & Flou

FEATURE ARTWORK

This piece captures a quiet moment along the Fraser River in Vancouver’s River District, observed during an evening walk at golden hour. As the sun lowered, its light scattered across the water, creating a soft shimmer that felt almost dreamlike. Rather than focusing on precise detail, the artist was drawn to the fleeting atmosphere, a moment where light, air, and movement seemed to gently dissolve into one

As the sun lowered, its light scattered across the water, creating a soft shimmer that felt almost dreamlike. Rather than focusing on precise detail, the artist was drawn to the fleeting atmosphere, a moment where light, air, and movement seemed to gently dissolve into one.

Created in watercolour, the work leans toward an impressionistic expression Forms remain soft and slightly undefined, allowing the river, distant trees, and weathered wooden posts to emerge through layers of translucent colour. Warm golden tones blend into cool blues, echoing the calm contrast of warmth and stillness. The brushwork is intuitive and unhurried, reflecting the pace of the moment itself.

The light on the river becomes more than a visual detail; it carries a sense of calm and presence Rather than capturing a fixed scene, the piece holds onto a passing sensation, inviting the viewer to reconnect with the quiet beauty that lives within ordinary moments

YOSHIKAWA

At Yo-Bones BBQ Catering, barbecue is more than just food - it’s about passion, resilience, and creating meaningful experiences through great meals Founded in 2018 by Rick Bone, Yo-Bones was built on over 30 years of experience in the food industry and a genuine love for bringing people together While Rick has always had a deep appreciation for barbecue, what truly drives him is the opportunity to be part of people’s special moments through food

Beyond the food, Yo-Bones is deeply rooted in community. One of the most memorable examples comes from the River District, where the team began serving during a time when the area was still under heavy construction. That warm, welcoming feeling left a lasting impression and turned the location into a favourite stop for the team.

The journey began with a single food truck. Rick sourced a truck from Kelowna, brought it back to Vancouver, and built it into the foundation of Yo-Bones BBQ. From there, the business started as a catering operation, serving events with carefully crafted, slow-smoked barbecue. As demand grew, so did the vision. But like many businesses, Yo-Bones faced a major challenge when COVID-19 brought events and catering to a sudden halt.

WORDS & PHOTOS BY YOSHI

Instead of stepping back, Rick adapted. He introduced a delivery service to bring Yo-Bones BBQ directly to customers at home The response was immediate and overwhelming - what started as a survival strategy quickly became a new way to connect with the community That turning point helped shape what Yo-Bones is today: a growing business with multiple food trucks, a strong catering division, and operations that now include a corporate cafeteria in Burnaby

At the core of Yo-Bones is a commitment to quality and authenticity. Each dish is prepared using traditional lowand-slow barbecue techniques, from tender brisket and fall-off-the-bone ribs to pulled pork and smoked chicken. Paired with classic sides like mac and cheese, cornbread, beans, and coleslaw, the menu delivers bold, comforting flavours that keep customers coming back.

Today, whether it’s through food trucks, catering, or daily service, Yo-Bones BBQ continues to focus on what matters most - serving great food and being part of people’s lives It’s not just about barbecue; it’s about connection, perseverance, and sharing something meaningful, one plate at a time

Follow along!

Website: www.yobonescatering.ca

Email: yo.bonescatering@gmail.com

Instagram: @yobonesbbq

Facebook: Yo-Bones BBQ Catering

TikTok: @yobonesbbq

PRESENTED BY CAPREIT

“I’ve lived in many different buildings over the years Fraser Flats has been one of my favourites The gym sauna is super convenient and the area is perfect fo dog Perfect walking distance to many things and property manager Esam has been so helpful responsive ”

~ A Resident at Fraser Flats

Life in River District has a rhythm to it - one that feels both connected and instantly grounding. Mornings often begin with a coffee from a nearby café in Town Centre, followed by a walk along the Fraser River’s shoreline, where wide pathways and water views set the tone for the day. It’s a neighbourhood designed for balance, where daily routines feel just a little more enjoyable

Fraser Flats fit naturally into this rhythm With a 4-star Google rating and a community of long-term residents, it’s a building that people don’t just move into - they stay. There’s a sense of ease here that shows up in both the spaces and the people who call it home.

Here, everything starts close to home With a fitness centre and sauna right in the building, wellness is part of your daily routine. And just outside, River District’s Town Centre puts groceries, cafés, and dining options all within easy walking distance.

Explore Our Communities:

When it’s time to unwind, the Fraser River is never far Residents often take advantage of the waterfront paths and green spaces, whether it’s an evening walk, a weekend reset, or simply a moment to slow down and take in the view

Inside, Fraser Flats offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom rental homes, with select layouts that include dens and flex spaces - ideal for working from home or creating a little extra breathing room Shared spaces like the two-level clubhouse and party room add flexibility for hosting and gathering, while outdoor terraces and landscaped areas extend living beyond your front door

What really sets Fraser Flats apart, though, is its sense of community. Residents consistently highlight the friendly, responsive management team and the care that goes into maintaining the building. From summer BBQs to small seasonal touches, there’s an effort to create moments that bring people together.

What really sets Fraser Flats apart, though, is its sense of community. Residents consistently highlight the friendly, responsive management team and the care that goes into maintaining the building From summer BBQs to small seasonal touches, there’s an effort to create moments that bring people together As one resident shared, it’s “a wonderful little community with great neighbours,” while others point to the convenience, cleanliness, and pet-friendly atmosphere as everyday perks.

In a neighbourhood designed for connections, Fraser Flats delivers a lifestyle that feels both grounded and complete If you’re looking for a home where everything just worksfrom location to livability - this is one worth experiencing

Get in touch!

3618-3688 Sawmill Crescent, Vancouver, BC, V5S 0E9

Phone: (778) 372-4317

Email: fraserflats@capreit.net

Instagram: @caprent

Facebook: CAPREIT Apartments

Web: https://www.capreit.ca/apartments-forrent/vancouver-bc/fraser-flats-apartments/

At the heart of Community Day is a simple goal: to bring people together.

Fraser Lands Church, the host of Community Day, is home to a vibrant multi-generational and multi-lingual congregation that brings together people of diverse cultures, ages, and life stages.

Discover the Fun at Fraser Lands Community Day - A Celebration for All Ages

PRESENTED BY FRASER LANDS CHURCH

Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 18, 2026, because Fraser Lands Community Day is back - and it’s more funfilled than ever. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., families, neighbours, and friends are invited to gather for an afternoon dedicated to community connection, celebration, and free activities for every age group Whether you're new to the neighbourhood or a long-time resident, this annual event offers a perfect opportunity to unwind, explore, and enjoy the vibrant spirit of our local community.

A Day Full of Free Family Fun

At the heart of Community Day is a simple goal: to bring people together Throughout the event, guests can enjoy a wide variety of complimentary food and refreshments, including hot dogs, watermelon, ice cream, cotton candy, and popcorn. And this year a continuing special treat - Cantonese and Mandarin specialty food tasting, showcasing flavours that celebrate the cultural richness of our church family

Families with children will love the dedicated Kids Activity Areas, featuring a bouncy castle, face painting, arts and crafts, and many more hands-on activities that invite creativity and energy Meanwhile, the Fun for All activity lineup ensures there’s something for everyone - from carnival games, to a mini-golf course, to a photo booth ready to capture the day’s joyful memories.

Cooking enthusiasts can watch live cooking demos, discovering new summer recipes and sampling delicious creations Music lovers will enjoy live performances, setting the perfect backdrop for a warm community gathering And for pet owners, the Pets FunZone offers interactive activities and adorable photo opportunities with your furry companions

Connecting with Community Resources

Community Day is also an opportunity to learn about valuable services and organizations that support families and individuals in our neighbourhood. In past years, the event has hosted booths ranging from local community organizations to fire and rescue services and neighbourhood houses These groups offer residents a chance to discover helpful programs, safety resources, and ways to get involved locally Some of the groups coming this year include Vancouver Fire & Rescue Services Fire Truck, Collingwood Community Policing, St. John Ambulance, South Vancouver Family Place, Vancouver Public Library - Champlain Heights Branch, Canadian Blood Services, and City of Vancouver Animal Services

About Fraser Lands ChurchA Community Rooted in Faith & Love

Fraser Lands Church, the host of Community Day, is home to a vibrant multi-generational and multi-lingual congregation that brings together people of diverse cultures, ages, and life stages United by a desire to grow deeper in our faith and understanding of God, we are committed to making a difference in our city and to be a blessing to those around us in our neighbourhoods.

See you there, Saturday, July 18!

Fraser Lands Church

3330 SE Marine Drive, Vancouver Tel: 604-451-5449

Email: info@fraserlands ca Website: www fraserlands ca

Instagram: @fraserlandschurch

Facebook: Fraser Lands Church 16

Find the words:

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

So, What’s the Secret?

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.

Website: www novusnow ca

Email: customerservice@novusnow ca Phone: 604 642 6688

Instagram: @novusnow

Facebook: Novus X: @novusnow

WRITTEN

EDITED BY

VIENNA JEFFERY & MAEYA JONES

PRABHI DEOL, CHERRY WONG & LIZA BAUTISTA

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SOUTH VANCOUVER

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE

South Vancouver Neighbourhood House (SVNH) has long served as a gathering space and community touchpoint for the largest geographical region of the city, South Vancouver, bringing neighbours together to connect and collaborate through a variety of programs, events, services and offerings. During the early years of the Covid-19 pandemic, SVNH became firsthand witness to the deepening of pre-existing inequities in South Vancouver, which it sought to address through its non-profit operations Disparities in local infrastructure and services became prominent and heightened during this time, compounded by the historical under-resourcing of the neighbourhood. Despite South Vancouver being one of the most diverse and culturally rich regions in Vancouver, its residents and neighbourhoods are often overlooked by city elected officials and staff, leading to a lack of social infrastructure in the area, such as third spaces, healthcare facilities and social service agencies, compared to other parts of Vancouver Recognizing the need for community engagement, collaboration, and civic advocacy to tackle longstanding inequities impacting South Vancouver, the Reframing South Vancouver Initiative was developed.

In 2021, SVNH launched the Reframing South Vancouver Initiative (RSVI) to elevate the historically underrepresented voices of South Vancouver residents, highlight the inequities that exist in the area’s distinct and diverse neighbourhoods, and help residents get engaged in civic processes that advocate for change Through this work, SVNH sought to improve representation within South Vancouver for racialized newcomers and other equity-seeking groups and reshape how the region is understood and enmeshed within the broader City of Vancouver. RSVI challenged the structural marginalization of the area through direct collaboration with community members and amplification of the stories, strengths and contributions of the residents and organizations that make up this vibrant community

Since its inception, the SVNH Reframing South Vancouver team has connected with over 6,000 residents and created real, visible changes in the community through the development of a diverse variety of community events, civic workshops, and resident campaigns. This includes recent advocacy efforts to protect the appropriation of greenspace from public use for 18 months for the FIFA World Cup hosted in Vancouver this summer The Reframing team has also supported and funded over 100 resident-led projects through the Neighbourhood Small Grants program, empowering community members and helping to build their capacity to take action on what matters most to them. In many ways, RSVI has operated at the forefront of community-based research and social action initiatives in Canada, and as such has contributed to published research in the Journal of Canadian Planning and Policy In recognition of the work and its value, Reframing South Vancouver has been previously awarded with grants from the Vancouver Foundation, WES Mariam Assefa Fund, City of Vancouver, BC Government, Federal Government, Real Estate Foundation BC, Law Foundation BC, SFU CERi and United Way BC.

Partnerships are central to this work RSVI collaborates with not only residents, but politicians, municipal staff, academic institutions, and community organizations across and beyond South Vancouver to create opportunities for communities to shape conversations about the region, its community and its future. Supervision of students from across the province, including UBC Social Work, UBC ACAM, UVic Social Work, Langara Geography, SFU Urban Studies and Canada Summer Jobs has supported dozens of education projects. Showcasing this work, Reframing has been featured in interviews with CBC Radio, Fairchild Radio, Omni News and in publications by The Tyee, Vancouver Sun, The Langara Voice, and Vancouver is Awesome

Despite its momentum, relevance, and wide-reaching impact, after 5 years of meaningful work, the Reframing South Vancouver Initiative is now approaching its conclusion due to a loss of funding While the initiative is winding down, the relationships built, stories shared, and change made through Reframing will leave a lasting impact on how South Vancouver is represented

South Vancouver Neighbourhood House has long served as a gathering space and community touchpoint for the largest geographical region of the city, South Vancouver, bringing neighbours together to t ll b t th h t

6470 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC, V5P 3X7

www.southvan.org

Instagram: @southvannh

Facebook: South Vancouver Neighbourhood House

WRITTEN BY ABBY

LIWAG

WITH CONTRIBUTIONS FROM ROLAND LIWAG ARRANGEMENTS & PHOTOS BY ABBY LIWAG

Hi! I’m Abby, the creator of and floral obsessive behind Bubuka ca I’m a proud Filipina who grew up in the desert heat of Dubai After migrating to Canada in 2018, my family and I now call Vancouver home This is my story; and the story of how Bubuka came to be

I’ve always had an artistic side for as long as I can remember. But life doesn’t always allow us to pursue our passions -- and my old corporate job in the oil and gas industry definitely pushed back hard I tried to keep the fire alive in what little way I could: painting, drawing, visiting museums, and surrounding myself with art of all kinds whenever the opportunity showed itself. Once I upended my entire life by moving across the planet, I no longer had the old shackles of a corporate job. I worked part time as a behavioral interventionist and as an art teacher. I finally had time. I finally stopped and smelled the roses. Pun definitely intended

The flora of Vancouver is what ultimately inspired me. Every season brings with it different shades and hues. Public parks, private gardens, and everything in between had something to offer. And then the pandemic happened and we collectively lost connections and intimacy My mind would often wander back to flowers and their innate beauty But also to their custom as messages of intimacy I started Bubuka soon after and have grown even more in love with floral creations And it has bloomed into such a positive force in my life that has brought meaningful connections and friendships.

The flora of Vancouver is what ultimately inspired me. Every season brings with it different shades and hues. Public parks, private gardens, and everything in between had something to offer.

Bubuka is a Tagalog word that means “will blossom” but it can also mean “will open” or “will be exposed” I enjoy double entendres and it fit what I wanted for my floral journey “Bubuka” also reminds me of a Filipino children’s song/game called Sasara ang Bulaklak, which means “The flower will close.” The version I grew up with goes like:

Sasara ang bulaklak, bubuka ang bulaklak (The flower closes, the flower opens)

Dadaan ang Reyna, pakembot-kembot pa (The Queen will pass, sashaying from side to side)

Boom tiyaya boom tiyaya boom yeye

I love this game and the memories of me and my friends as little kids taking turns as the queen, strutting into the flower with flamboyant sass. It feels so fitting that “Bubuka” connects so naturally to flowers, creativity, playfulness, and my Filipino culture - all the parts of me that make Bubuka what it is.

I started out being self-taught through videos and books At first, I only had the confidence to work with family and friends: Valentine’s Day and then Mother’s Day bouquets. I eventually attended many workshops and courses taught by other amazing florists who have now become my flower friends. I slowly worked my way to designing and making bouquets for other special occasions like anniversaries and graduations And now, I try to learn even more through experimentation and osmosis I have graduated up to working as a freelance florist for events and have even hosted my own floral workshop here in the River District, at Boketto Dessert Cafe. Teaching others and sharing my knowledge and love of floristry has been an absolute delight.

I hope to grow Bubuka into something that showcases the beauty and art that flowers can bring I want to share this with more communities I want to have more collaborations And I want to support those who want a little more floral spectacle in their endeavors whether it be events, business launches, or other gatherings. I hope that Bubuka can help people connect, be intimate, and be inspired. And I plan to grow right alongside, developing my art form. Most of all, I never want to get tired of playing with flowers and having fun with all of the amazing people I get to collaborate and work with

In the next few months, I have a few community events and collaborations lined up and I will be posting them on Instagram If you have a project or event that needs a floral touch, I’d love to connect! Send an email to hello@bubuka ca Or if all you want to do is talk about flowers – that’s kind of my thing

Get in touch!

River District, South Vancouver

Email: hello@bubuka ca

Instagram: @bubuka 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

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

PHOTO BY PAIGE

Meet our Feature Pet

WORDS BY CONNOR DESHARNAIS & KIKO KWOK

IMAGES BY PAIGE LORRAINE PHOTOGRAPHY, CONNOR DESHARNAIS & KIKO KWOK

Mei is a two-year-old Shiba Inu girl with a mischievous and playful personality. She became part of the family on the 21st night of September, a date we’ll always remember thanks to Earth, Wind & Fire.

Mei is full of energy and curiosity. She loves to chew things, whether it’s a squeaky toy, a bone or, occasionally, something she’s not supposed to… like the leg of a chair or the TV remote. With Mei, there’s no such thing as “indestructible”.

At home, Mei lives with her human parents and two cat siblings, Bubz and Nancy. Mei is always eager to play with them, but, unfortunately for her, the feeling isn’t mutual Bubz and Nancy prefer a calm environment and usually keep their distance from Mei’s high-energy antics That doesn’t stop her from trying, though

While she can be a little shy when meeting new people, she warms up quickly and enjoys playing with other dogs and friendly humans She’s not a fan of baths and generally dislikes being wet, but she’s always happy to play in the sand or dirt whenever she gets the chance She also loves peanut butter, snuggling with her blanket (and usually chewing on it), and spending time with her people.

Mei is also a very reliable guard dog. She always lets us know when someone’s at the door, eliminating the need for a doorbell. And when it’s time to go for a walk, she likes turn it into a fun little game where you have to catch h before you can get the harness on. Because it’s not fun if it too easy.

Independent but affectionate, alert but playful, Mei h become a beloved part of our lives. Whether she’s making u laugh with her antics or curling up on the couch for a quiet moment, she gives us joy and love every day

Follow Mei:

Instagram: @kikoooo.k

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