Steveston Insider - Richmond, BC, Canada - A Resource for Families and Fun in Steveston
View April 2012 Issue
May 11th, 2012
NEW! ECO-FRIENDLY BIRTHDAY PARTIES. Let the experienced teachers of With Our Own Two Hands organize your child’s birthday party in the heart of Steveston Village. There are options for gluten-free, organic, or vegan cakes and snacks. Goodybags are hand-sewn and include treats and toys that will last instead of plastic ones that are thrown out after a few days. Most of the decorations will be hand-sewn and made out of reusable materials. There is so much that is usually thrown out after parties and they offer an environmentally friendly way of celebrating a birthday. Some popular themes are: Circus/Carnival, Dinosaur, Mr.Party, Fairy Princess Party, Messy Party (which will include outdoor painting on murals, bubble throwing, mud play, etc.), Cat in the Hat, Art Party, and Yoga Dance.
EXTENDED PRESCHOOL HOURS from 9:00am-1:00pm. Preschool currently runs from 9:00am-11:30am..
SUMMER MORNING PRESCHOOL 9:00-11:30am. Summer preschool will include activities such as gardening, yoga, Japanese, Mandarin, French, Spanish, art, outdoor explorations, music, dance, science explorations, nature walks, etc.
3-3871 Moncton Street, Steveston Village
778-882-3165
www.withourowntwohands.ca
NEW! ECO-FRIENDLY BIRTHDAY PARTIES. Let the experienced teachers of With Our Own Two Hands organize your child’s birthday party in the heart of Steveston Village. There are options for gluten-free, organic, or vegan cakes and snacks. Goodybags are hand-sewn and include treats and toys that will last instead of plastic ones that are thrown out after a few days. Most of the decorations will be hand-sewn and made out of reusable materials. There is so much that is usually thrown out after parties and they offer an environmentally friendly way of celebrating a birthday. Some popular themes are: Circus/Carnival, Dinosaur, Mr.Party, Fairy Princess Party, Messy Party (which will include outdoor painting on murals, bubble throwing, mud play, etc.), Cat in the Hat, Art Party, and Yoga Dance.
EXTENDED PRESCHOOL HOURS from 9:00am-1:00pm. Preschool currently runs from 9:00am-11:30am..
SUMMER MORNING PRESCHOOL 9:00-11:30am. Summer preschool will include activities such as gardening, yoga, Japanese, Mandarin, French, Spanish, art, outdoor explorations, music, dance, science explorations, nature walks, etc.
3-3871 Moncton Street, Steveston Village
778-882-3165
www.withourowntwohands.ca
Tags: birthday, care, eco, friendly, Moncton, parties, preschool, richmond, Steveston, summer, toddlers, village, with our own two hands, yoga
Posted in Business | Comments Off
April 29th, 2012
Mark your calendar, Sunday May 13th is Mother’s Day. One mother that I know wishes she could wave a magic wand and have the day to herself, while other mums enjoy being treated like a queen on this special day. Since shopping local is always at the top of my list, here are some suggestions of ways to prepare for, and celebrate Mother’s Day, Steveston-style!
Breakfast in bed is always a popular way to start the day, along with a homemade card on the breakfast tray. Consider creating a menu in advance and offer mum several options so she can check off her preferences. Then head off with the kids on a shopping trip to acquire the required groceries. Perhaps a traditional rise and shine bacon and eggs breakfast? Or a vegetarian omelette accompanied by fruit and yogurt or a blueberry smoothie?
Heringers is the place to shop for breakfast fixings including free range eggs, bacon, cheese, bread and preserves (remember that they are closed on Sunday). Fruit and veggies aren’t far away at Veggie King Market.
New to Steveston is D-Original Sausage Haus. For lunch or dinner, they have it all – barbecue bratwurst, fine salamis, prosciutto hams and sandwich meats. All sausages are handcrafted by a fifth generation sausage maker.
Steveston Coffee Company hand roasts organic coffee beans. Consider Nikaido for their most popular teas, Cream Earl Grey or Steveston Blend, and check out their ceramics, including tea pots.
If you don’t feel like cooking breakfast visit Bean and Beyond, the Cannery Café or the Steveston Hotel.
Jewellery is synonymous with Mother’s Day and Pieces offers a great selection of Canadian jewellery including Karen Telio and Sugarlime. A gift certificate to Violet Hill Clothing would make a wonderfully fashionable present. If you are looking for flowers, Prickly Pear Garden Centre creates gorgeous floral arrangements. A gift certificate to Goegan Spa will guarantee “time out” for mum with their many luxurious treatments including massages, pedicures, manicures and facials.
For a hip and adventurous mum, Steveston Tattoo Company can make that tattoo that she has always dreamed of a reality. Or create a lasting memory and book a family portrait with Sandra Steier Photography. Her stunning work is featured regularly in Steveston Insider magazine.
Adorabelle Tea Room recently opened in the Old Courthouse on Third Avenue. Their afternoon tea is by reservation, and capacity is limited, so book ahead for Mother’s Day weekend. Don your casually elegant clothing, get your pinky finger ready, and prepare to sip tea, dine on tea sandwiches, fresh baked scones, and house-made petite sweets.
604-241-1947
Another fun place to hang out is Bell’s Bake Shop with its warm retro feel; you can pull up a chair, order a drink and cupcake, and inhale the cupcakes baking in the kitchen. If your willpower holds out you can take home some of Bell’s special Mother’s Day cupcakes for dessert.
The Sweet Spot offers some of the finest pastries around. Their coconut macaroons always keep customers coming back for more and they often sell out by lunchtime. In addition to house-made sandwiches, and Salt Spring Coffee they sell frozen soups and entrees to take home. Now if only they could bottle and sell the aroma which greets you when you walk in the door…
Sinfully the Best has recently expanded their space, and offers some of the best artisan chocolates that I have ever tasted. Handmade on the premises with quality ingredients, indulging in these chocolates is definitely a sin worth committing.
Lunch or dinner out is a nice way to give mum a break from the kitchen. Whether you choose sushi at Ichiro’s, Malaysian food at Kari House, Paesano’s for an Italian meal, a Mediterranean/West Coast brunch at Tapenade Bistro, or Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant’s maritime menu, the meal is sure to be memorable, and tasty.
Searching for a local outing? London Heritage Farm holds their annual Mother’s Day Tea from 12 to 5 p.m. on May 12 & 13. Reservations are recommended. Call
604-271-5220.
Plan a family walk at Garry Point and combine it with a picnic or fish and chips at Pajo’s, or hop on your bikes and cycle along the dyke. The options in Steveston are endless. We are so fortunate to live in this wonderful community.
To all the mums who work so hard year round to nurture your families – Have a very happy Mother’s Day.
by Sarah Gordon
Mark your calendar, Sunday May 13th is Mother’s Day. One mother that I know wishes she could wave a magic wand and have the day to herself, while other mums enjoy being treated like a queen on this special day. Since shopping local is always at the top of my list, here are some suggestions of ways to prepare for, and celebrate Mother’s Day, Steveston-style!
Breakfast in bed is always a popular way to start the day, along with a homemade card on the breakfast tray. Consider creating a menu in advance and offer mum several options so she can check off her preferences. Then head off with the kids on a shopping trip to acquire the required groceries. Perhaps a traditional rise and shine bacon and eggs breakfast? Or a vegetarian omelette accompanied by fruit and yogurt or a blueberry smoothie?
Heringers is the place to shop for breakfast fixings including free range eggs, bacon, cheese, bread and preserves (remember that they are closed on Sunday). Fruit and veggies aren’t far away at Veggie King Market.
New to Steveston is D-Original Sausage Haus. For lunch or dinner, they have it all – barbecue bratwurst, fine salamis, prosciutto hams and sandwich meats. All sausages are handcrafted by a fifth generation sausage maker.
Steveston Coffee Company hand roasts organic coffee beans. Consider Nikaido for their most popular teas, Cream Earl Grey or Steveston Blend, and check out their ceramics, including tea pots.
If you don’t feel like cooking breakfast visit Bean and Beyond, the Cannery Café or the Steveston Hotel.
Jewellery is synonymous with Mother’s Day and Pieces offers a great selection of Canadian jewellery including Karen Telio and Sugarlime. A gift certificate to Violet Hill Clothing would make a wonderfully fashionable present. If you are looking for flowers, Prickly Pear Garden Centre creates gorgeous floral arrangements. A gift certificate to Goegan Spa will guarantee “time out” for mum with their many luxurious treatments including massages, pedicures, manicures and facials.
For a hip and adventurous mum, Steveston Tattoo Company can make that tattoo that she has always dreamed of a reality. Or create a lasting memory and book a family portrait with Sandra Steier Photography. Her stunning work is featured regularly in Steveston Insider magazine.
Adorabelle Tea Room recently opened in the Old Courthouse on Third Avenue. Their afternoon tea is by reservation, and capacity is limited, so book ahead for Mother’s Day weekend. Don your casually elegant clothing, get your pinky finger ready, and prepare to sip tea, dine on tea sandwiches, fresh baked scones, and house-made petite sweets.
604-241-1947
Another fun place to hang out is Bell’s Bake Shop with its warm retro feel; you can pull up a chair, order a drink and cupcake, and inhale the cupcakes baking in the kitchen. If your willpower holds out you can take home some of Bell’s special Mother’s Day cupcakes for dessert.
The Sweet Spot offers some of the finest pastries around. Their coconut macaroons always keep customers coming back for more and they often sell out by lunchtime. In addition to house-made sandwiches, and Salt Spring Coffee they sell frozen soups and entrees to take home. Now if only they could bottle and sell the aroma which greets you when you walk in the door…
Sinfully the Best has recently expanded their space, and offers some of the best artisan chocolates that I have ever tasted. Handmade on the premises with quality ingredients, indulging in these chocolates is definitely a sin worth committing.
Lunch or dinner out is a nice way to give mum a break from the kitchen. Whether you choose sushi at Ichiro’s, Malaysian food at Kari House, Paesano’s for an Italian meal, a Mediterranean/West Coast brunch at Tapenade Bistro, or Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant’s maritime menu, the meal is sure to be memorable, and tasty.
Searching for a local outing? London Heritage Farm holds their annual Mother’s Day Tea from 12 to 5 p.m. on May 12 & 13. Reservations are recommended. Call
604-271-5220.
Plan a family walk at Garry Point and combine it with a picnic or fish and chips at Pajo’s, or hop on your bikes and cycle along the dyke. The options in Steveston are endless. We are so fortunate to live in this wonderful community.
To all the mums who work so hard year round to nurture your families – Have a very happy Mother’s Day.
by Sarah Gordon
Tags: breakfast, brunch, chocolates, gifts, lunch, mothers day, richmond, shopping, Steveston
Posted in Article by Sarah Gordon | Comments Off
Tags: fairytale, ginnifer goodwin, jennifer morrison, once upon a time, Steveston, storybrooke
Posted in Community | Comments Off
April 21st, 2012
Spring Trollbeads are in the Air
Pieces is hosting a Trollbeads Trunk Show!
Please join us at Pieces Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012
4 – 8 p.m.
* complementary bracelet with the purchase of a decorative clasp or *purchase 3 beads and get a 4th bead complementary (of the lesser value in the grouping)
100-3580 Moncton Street
Steveston Village
604-271-1011
Spring Trollbeads are in the Air
Pieces is hosting a Trollbeads Trunk Show!
Please join us at Pieces Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012
4 – 8 p.m.
* complementary bracelet with the purchase of a decorative clasp or *purchase 3 beads and get a 4th bead complementary (of the lesser value in the grouping)
100-3580 Moncton Street
Steveston Village
604-271-1011
Tags: beads, bracelet, gifts, jewellery, Moncton, mothers day, necklace, pieces, richmond, shopping, Steveston, trollbeads
Posted in Business | Comments Off
Tags: club, kigoos, outdoor, pool, richmond, Steveston, swim, swimming
Posted in Community, Sports & Activities | Comments Off
April 8th, 2012
When conducting interviews, I often ask people if they have a good story to share. In the case of Anne-Louise Parry, owner and leader of Lulu Family Fitness, her personal success story is an inspiring one. Putting on a swim suit is a reality check for many of us. Parry experienced significant weight gain after her two pregnancies. She had a wake up call when she took her daughters to swimming lessons, and realized that she needed to do something to change the way she felt about her body.
Parry is a master at reinventing herself. Not one to dream small, she took the bull by the horns and got her certification to teach fitness classes through the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association. Parry achieved her goal, and lost seventy pounds along the way.
Born in Vancouver, she grew up in Kerrisdale and attended Vancouver’s only French immersion school at that time, L’Ecole Bilingue. Prior to her fitness career, Parry earned a Political Science degree from the University of Victoria, and then worked alongside her father as a hardware sales representative.
Anne-Louise Parry’s family has impressive Steveston roots. Her great-great-grandfather was Henry Ogle Bell-Irving, one of the most influential businessmen to emerge in Vancouver in the late 19th century. He founded the Anglo-British Columbia Packing Company in 1890 and purchased seven Fraser River canneries, including Steveston’s Britannia Shipyards, as well as two canneries on the Skeena River, which accounted for more than one quarter of British Columbia’s total salmon packing.
In 2004 Parry and her family moved to Steveston. She bought a Stroller Strides franchise in 2007 which she ran, pardon the pun, for three years. It became a familiar sight to see mobs of mothers pushing strollers along Steveston’s streets and trails.
In 2010 she adapted her stroller oriented business when she realized there was a slight decline in young families moving here. She completed her contract with Stroller Strides, and created her own company, Lulu Family Fitness, which also offers stroller classes, in addition to classes for other members of the family. She is now certified to teach group fitness (including boot camps), pre and post natal, and 3rd Age classification (ages 55+).
In the near future she hopes to offer classes for men as well. In the meantime there are a variety of classes to choose from, at various times of the day, for many fitness levels.
Lulu Ladies and Babies is an outdoor workout which combines strength training with cardio drills. Mums of all ages and fitness levels are welcome and babies benefit from the fresh air and social nature of the classes.
Jungle Gym Blast is a 45 minute outdoor boot camp which allows you to exercise before heading home for the evening. Child minding is available, and children 3 years and older are welcome to participate. This class will commence in April when the weather is more predictable.
Outdoor Lean Ladies Boot Camp was created for women who have graduated from strollers and enjoy working out in the fresh air. This class aims to increase strength and physical conditioning while pushing you beyond your comfort zone. In addition, weekly weigh-ins help keep you accountable.
Indoor Lean Ladies Circuit is a fast paced and challenging interval circuit with emphasis on muscle confusion. All exercises are done safely to reach your next fitness level. Weekly weigh-ins and monthly measurements help to keep you on track.
Runners will enjoy Run Lulu Run which is a combo class of interval running covering distances of up to 5 kilometers combined with muscular training.
Parry feels extremely fortunate to make a living doing something that she loves. Fitness is a huge part of her life, even during her down time. She enjoys Bikram hot yoga, which she attends 2-3 times a week, and she likes to run. With such a fit mother as a role model, Parry’s children are also active, something that Parry feels is important to instill in them at an early age with childhood obesity at an all time high. She has the good fortune to be able to juggle her work schedule with her children’s activities, and she takes a keen interest in their schooling, including being involved with the Homma Elementary Parent Advisory Committee.
Some Steveston highlights for Parry include the dyke trails and the waterfront. An advocate of shopping and dining locally, a few of Parry’s favourite spots include Bean and Beyond, Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant, Heringers and Pieces.
At Easter a Labradoodle name Charlie will join the Parry household, and undoubtedly he will become a fit family member too. It wouldn’t surprise me if Parry comes up with a fitness program for dogs and their owners, as her perpetual wheel of creative fitness ideas continues to spin, powered by energy and enthusiasm.
www.lulufamilyfitness.ca
by Sarah Gordon, photos by Sandra Steier
When conducting interviews, I often ask people if they have a good story to share. In the case of Anne-Louise Parry, owner and leader of Lulu Family Fitness, her personal success story is an inspiring one. Putting on a swim suit is a reality check for many of us. Parry experienced significant weight gain after her two pregnancies. She had a wake up call when she took her daughters to swimming lessons, and realized that she needed to do something to change the way she felt about her body.
Parry is a master at reinventing herself. Not one to dream small, she took the bull by the horns and got her certification to teach fitness classes through the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association. Parry achieved her goal, and lost seventy pounds along the way.
Born in Vancouver, she grew up in Kerrisdale and attended Vancouver’s only French immersion school at that time, L’Ecole Bilingue. Prior to her fitness career, Parry earned a Political Science degree from the University of Victoria, and then worked alongside her father as a hardware sales representative.
Anne-Louise Parry’s family has impressive Steveston roots. Her great-great-grandfather was Henry Ogle Bell-Irving, one of the most influential businessmen to emerge in Vancouver in the late 19th century. He founded the Anglo-British Columbia Packing Company in 1890 and purchased seven Fraser River canneries, including Steveston’s Britannia Shipyards, as well as two canneries on the Skeena River, which accounted for more than one quarter of British Columbia’s total salmon packing.
In 2004 Parry and her family moved to Steveston. She bought a Stroller Strides franchise in 2007 which she ran, pardon the pun, for three years. It became a familiar sight to see mobs of mothers pushing strollers along Steveston’s streets and trails.
In 2010 she adapted her stroller oriented business when she realized there was a slight decline in young families moving here. She completed her contract with Stroller Strides, and created her own company, Lulu Family Fitness, which also offers stroller classes, in addition to classes for other members of the family. She is now certified to teach group fitness (including boot camps), pre and post natal, and 3rd Age classification (ages 55+).
In the near future she hopes to offer classes for men as well. In the meantime there are a variety of classes to choose from, at various times of the day, for many fitness levels.
Lulu Ladies and Babies is an outdoor workout which combines strength training with cardio drills. Mums of all ages and fitness levels are welcome and babies benefit from the fresh air and social nature of the classes.
Jungle Gym Blast is a 45 minute outdoor boot camp which allows you to exercise before heading home for the evening. Child minding is available, and children 3 years and older are welcome to participate. This class will commence in April when the weather is more predictable.
Outdoor Lean Ladies Boot Camp was created for women who have graduated from strollers and enjoy working out in the fresh air. This class aims to increase strength and physical conditioning while pushing you beyond your comfort zone. In addition, weekly weigh-ins help keep you accountable.
Indoor Lean Ladies Circuit is a fast paced and challenging interval circuit with emphasis on muscle confusion. All exercises are done safely to reach your next fitness level. Weekly weigh-ins and monthly measurements help to keep you on track.
Runners will enjoy Run Lulu Run which is a combo class of interval running covering distances of up to 5 kilometers combined with muscular training.
Parry feels extremely fortunate to make a living doing something that she loves. Fitness is a huge part of her life, even during her down time. She enjoys Bikram hot yoga, which she attends 2-3 times a week, and she likes to run. With such a fit mother as a role model, Parry’s children are also active, something that Parry feels is important to instill in them at an early age with childhood obesity at an all time high. She has the good fortune to be able to juggle her work schedule with her children’s activities, and she takes a keen interest in their schooling, including being involved with the Homma Elementary Parent Advisory Committee.
Some Steveston highlights for Parry include the dyke trails and the waterfront. An advocate of shopping and dining locally, a few of Parry’s favourite spots include Bean and Beyond, Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant, Heringers and Pieces.
At Easter a Labradoodle name Charlie will join the Parry household, and undoubtedly he will become a fit family member too. It wouldn’t surprise me if Parry comes up with a fitness program for dogs and their owners, as her perpetual wheel of creative fitness ideas continues to spin, powered by energy and enthusiasm.
www.lulufamilyfitness.ca
by Sarah Gordon, photos by Sandra Steier
Posted in Article by Sarah Gordon, Business | Comments Off
February 26th, 2012
Cannon Fire Media is a small public relations firm serving a variety of businesses in the Lower Mainland. It is spearheaded by veteran journalist Evan Kelly. Evan spent the last seven years as an Editor with News1130 Radio in Vancouver. His experience is backed up by a Diploma in Broadcast Journalism and a Certificate in Public Relations and Corporate Communications.
Evan has made the transition into public relations bringing with him excellent writing and pr skills and the knowledge of what news rooms will go after. As a former Editor, Evan made decisions every day about what stories make the cut and what ones do not. Let Cannon Fire find the angles that will make news rooms want to cover your story.
Cannon Fire, like the name suggests is about getting your message through the clutter and noise that is clogging our airwaves and Internet daily. They will fire your message above it all to make sure it is heard. Not just heard, but on target as well.
They offer is an affordable yet driven option for frontline media contact when you need to raise the profile of your business or event. They are also a proactive issues management consultancy when you aren’t sure about what to do or say if a problem should arise. Whether you want a little local coverage or to have your message fired across the country, Cannon Fire can make it happen through their extensive database.
Cannon Fire deals with several start-up companies who don’t necessarily have a huge budget to get their message out. Cannon Fire will work with you to make sure your communications goals are met. Initial consult is free.
Evan Kelly, Cannon Fire Media 604-505-2307
www.cannonfiremedia.com
Cannon Fire Media is a small public relations firm serving a variety of businesses in the Lower Mainland. It is spearheaded by veteran journalist Evan Kelly. Evan spent the last seven years as an Editor with News1130 Radio in Vancouver. His experience is backed up by a Diploma in Broadcast Journalism and a Certificate in Public Relations and Corporate Communications.
Evan has made the transition into public relations bringing with him excellent writing and pr skills and the knowledge of what news rooms will go after. As a former Editor, Evan made decisions every day about what stories make the cut and what ones do not. Let Cannon Fire find the angles that will make news rooms want to cover your story.
Cannon Fire, like the name suggests is about getting your message through the clutter and noise that is clogging our airwaves and Internet daily. They will fire your message above it all to make sure it is heard. Not just heard, but on target as well.
They offer is an affordable yet driven option for frontline media contact when you need to raise the profile of your business or event. They are also a proactive issues management consultancy when you aren’t sure about what to do or say if a problem should arise. Whether you want a little local coverage or to have your message fired across the country, Cannon Fire can make it happen through their extensive database.
Cannon Fire deals with several start-up companies who don’t necessarily have a huge budget to get their message out. Cannon Fire will work with you to make sure your communications goals are met. Initial consult is free.
Evan Kelly, Cannon Fire Media 604-505-2307
www.cannonfiremedia.com
Tags: cannon, communications, evan kelly, fire, journalism, media, message, news, public, relations, richmond, Steveston, vancouver
Posted in Business | Comments Off
February 17th, 2012
Public open house on Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 5:30pm – 8:30pm. Brief presentation starts at 6pm. Also on Saturday, February 25, 2012 from 12:30pm – 2:30pm. Brief presentation starts at 1pm. Location: Lord Byng Elementary School gym, 3711 Georgia Street, Richmond, BC.
Steveston waterfront development: construction of the last development parcel at Imperial Landing is proceeding, which consists of six low-rise buildings with a mixture of residential and commercial uses. The existing zoning restricts commercial uses to those that support the maritime economy, which include industrial and manufacturing uses. Onni is contemplating submitting an application to add permitted uses to the existing zoning which allow for commerical/retail uses that will better serve the community’s needs.
Onni wants your feedback on what types of commercial/retail uses you feel are appropriate for the community. Onni rep and a third party facilitator will be on-hand to answer any questions regarding the proposal and to gather community feedback.
Contact Brendan Yee with any questions or concerns regarding the open house
at byee@onni.com or 604-602-7711
Public open house on Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 5:30pm – 8:30pm. Brief presentation starts at 6pm. Also on Saturday, February 25, 2012 from 12:30pm – 2:30pm. Brief presentation starts at 1pm. Location: Lord Byng Elementary School gym, 3711 Georgia Street, Richmond, BC.
Steveston waterfront development: construction of the last development parcel at Imperial Landing is proceeding, which consists of six low-rise buildings with a mixture of residential and commercial uses. The existing zoning restricts commercial uses to those that support the maritime economy, which include industrial and manufacturing uses. Onni is contemplating submitting an application to add permitted uses to the existing zoning which allow for commerical/retail uses that will better serve the community’s needs.
Onni wants your feedback on what types of commercial/retail uses you feel are appropriate for the community. Onni rep and a third party facilitator will be on-hand to answer any questions regarding the proposal and to gather community feedback.
Contact Brendan Yee with any questions or concerns regarding the open house
at byee@onni.com or 604-602-7711
Tags: bayview, business, commercial, community, development, imperial, landing, london, onni, retail, rezoning, richmond, Steveston, waterfront, zoning
Posted in Community, Steveston Merchants Association | Comments Off
February 2nd, 2012
Tapenade Bistro celebrated its ninth anniversary in January, a milestone indeed in the ever changing world of restaurants. Tapenade Bistro has 
achieved what so many restaurants strive to be recognized for; their award-winning food, excellent wines and outstanding service.
In the early days, owner Vince Morlet had a vision that his restaurant would be an urban style bistro. Over time he realized that honouring what they do best is key, to be a neighbourhood bistro in the heart of Steveston village featuring French and Mediterranean inspired West Coast fare. Their “simple, yet elegant” cuisine showcases the natural beauty of local, sustainable and seasonal ingredients in an appropriate and sumptuous manner. Morlet’s charm and warmth is inextricably linked to the ambience of Tapenade Bistro as he circulates the restaurant floor to welcome his customers.
Morlet was born in Los Angeles. His parents, originally from France, moved their family to Steveston when Morlet was fourteen-years-old. After graduating from Steveston High, he began his career in the food industry as a waiter in a Richmond restaurant, and subsequently worked his way into hotel and restaurant management in Vancouver, Brazil and France. In that time he also earned a degree in Political Science and a Diploma in Hospitality. He changed career paths briefly when he went into recruiting and head hunting, but returned in 2002 as a restaurateur and Tapenade Bistro was born.
Morlet’s paternal grandfather ran a café/delicatessen in Paris’s 20th arrondissement. Although Morlet never met his grandfather, he grew up seeing the enchanting black and white photographs of his grandfather’s Parisian establishment.
From day one the following perennial favourites have appeared on Tapenade Bistro’s menu: Bouillabaisse (which is ever evolving, subject to availability of seafood) and Black Olive Tapenade (which is absolutely delicious). Other popular items which appear year round include Beef Short Rib, Beet Salad and Linguine Boscaiola. Keeping the menu both seasonal and local is of utmost importance; therefore you will see a large portion of the menu change according to availability.
Recently appointed as Head Chef, Justin Cheung, will introduce his first menu in April. As part of their commitment to sustainability, Tapenade Bistro supports local suppliers, and local farms including Terra Nova Farm. They also take part in Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise sustainable seafood program which works directly with restaurants, markets, food services and suppliers to assist them in making ocean-friendly buying decisions.
Each winter Tapenade Bistro partners with local wineries to present their Winemakers Dinner Series. These special evenings pair six wines with six courses, and shine the spotlight on reputed B.C. winemakers who are present to discuss their wines. Next up is Poplar Grove on April 4th and La Frenz on April 25th, both from the Naramata Bench. These dinners always sell out, so be sure to book quickly.
Tapenade Bistro has many long term staff that Morlet refers to as the “Tapenade family”. Like so many business owners, Morlet spends many long days behind the scenes as he takes care of administrative work, meeting with vendors, promoting and marketing the restaurant, and he is on the restaurant floor during dining hours.
Morlet and his wife Juliana, who is a business analyst, have two sons, ages two and seven. On his time off, Morlet enjoys checking out Vancouver’s restaurant scene. Having spent 27 years of his life in Steveston he feels akin to the fishing village and believes the greatest things about Steveston are its size, the people, and the village’s unique position in the Lower Mainland.
As Vice-President of the Steveston Merchants Association’s Board of Directors, and one of its founding members, he is an active community liaison. Morlet is also on the Executive Committee of Tourism Richmond’s Board of Directors. Tapenade Bistro is a supporter of YVR’s Golf for Kids annual fundraiser which assists children’s charities including Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.
As snowflakes are gently falling outside my window, I can think of no finer place to be than in a warm Mediterranean environment eating a bowl of Bouillabaisse. Tapenade Bistro is yet another reason to not have to leave Steveston; it’s all here, well maybe not the Mediterranean heat, quite yet!
www.tapenade.ca
3711 Bayview Street
604-275-5188
written by Sarah Gordon, photos by Sandra Steier
Tapenade Bistro celebrated its ninth anniversary in January, a milestone indeed in the ever changing world of restaurants. Tapenade Bistro has achieved what so many restaurants strive to be recognized for; their award-winning food, excellent wines and outstanding service.
In the early days, owner Vince Morlet had a vision that his restaurant would be an urban style bistro. Over time he realized that honouring what they do best is key, to be a neighbourhood bistro in the heart of Steveston village featuring French and Mediterranean inspired West Coast fare. Their “simple, yet elegant” cuisine showcases the natural beauty of local, sustainable and seasonal ingredients in an appropriate and sumptuous manner. Morlet’s charm and warmth is inextricably linked to the ambience of Tapenade Bistro as he circulates the restaurant floor to welcome his customers.
Morlet was born in Los Angeles. His parents, originally from France, moved their family to Steveston when Morlet was fourteen-years-old. After graduating from Steveston High, he began his career in the food industry as a waiter in a Richmond restaurant, and subsequently worked his way into hotel and restaurant management in Vancouver, Brazil and France. In that time he also earned a degree in Political Science and a Diploma in Hospitality. He changed career paths briefly when he went into recruiting and head hunting, but returned in 2002 as a restaurateur and Tapenade Bistro was born.
Morlet’s paternal grandfather ran a café/delicatessen in Paris’s 20th arrondissement. Although Morlet never met his grandfather, he grew up seeing the enchanting black and white photographs of his grandfather’s Parisian establishment.
From day one the following perennial favourites have appeared on Tapenade Bistro’s menu: Bouillabaisse (which is ever evolving, subject to availability of seafood) and Black Olive Tapenade (which is absolutely delicious). Other popular items which appear year round include Beef Short Rib, Beet Salad and Linguine Boscaiola. Keeping the menu both seasonal and local is of utmost importance; therefore you will see a large portion of the menu change according to availability.
Recently appointed as Head Chef, Justin Cheung, will introduce his first menu in April. As part of their commitment to sustainability, Tapenade Bistro supports local suppliers, and local farms including Terra Nova Farm. They also take part in Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise sustainable seafood program which works directly with restaurants, markets, food services and suppliers to assist them in making ocean-friendly buying decisions.
Each winter Tapenade Bistro partners with local wineries to present their Winemakers Dinner Series. These special evenings pair six wines with six courses, and shine the spotlight on reputed B.C. winemakers who are present to discuss their wines. Next up is Poplar Grove on April 4th and La Frenz on April 25th, both from the Naramata Bench. These dinners always sell out, so be sure to book quickly.
Tapenade Bistro has many long term staff that Morlet refers to as the “Tapenade family”. Like so many business owners, Morlet spends many long days behind the scenes as he takes care of administrative work, meeting with vendors, promoting and marketing the restaurant, and he is on the restaurant floor during dining hours.
Morlet and his wife Juliana, who is a business analyst, have two sons, ages two and seven. On his time off, Morlet enjoys checking out Vancouver’s restaurant scene. Having spent 27 years of his life in Steveston he feels akin to the fishing village and believes the greatest things about Steveston are its size, the people, and the village’s unique position in the Lower Mainland.
As Vice-President of the Steveston Merchants Association’s Board of Directors, and one of its founding members, he is an active community liaison. Morlet is also on the Executive Committee of Tourism Richmond’s Board of Directors. Tapenade Bistro is a supporter of YVR’s Golf for Kids annual fundraiser which assists children’s charities including Canuck Place Children’s Hospice.
As snowflakes are gently falling outside my window, I can think of no finer place to be than in a warm Mediterranean environment eating a bowl of Bouillabaisse. Tapenade Bistro is yet another reason to not have to leave Steveston; it’s all here, well maybe not the Mediterranean heat, quite yet!
www.tapenade.ca
3711 Bayview Street
604-275-5188
written by Sarah Gordon, photos by Sandra Steier
Tags: bayview, bistro, brunch, dinner, fare, french, lunch, mediterranean, menu, morlet, patio, restaurant, richmond, Steveston, tapenade, village, vince, west coast, wine
Posted in Article by Sarah Gordon, Business | Comments Off
February 2nd, 2012
Steveston Tattoo Company promises the brightest colours for their works of art. The shop itself is a vibrant and eclectic masterpiece with its warm mustard coloured walls, dark gray wainscoting, an ornate chandelier, a mounted deer head wearing a crown, Balinese masks, antique cabinetry, not to mention an array of wall art. It is easy to imagine shrinking the richness and warmth of the décor down to the size of a tattoo.
Steveston Tattoo Company is the new kid in town; having opened for business in December. Owner, Ryan Halter, aka “Mr. Halter”, and his right-hand man, Jesse Strong, met four years ago when Halter tattooed Strong. They are pleased by the warm reception they have received as people stroll into the shop and welcome them to the village. Halter was aware that Steveston was lacking a tattoo shop, and decided to establish his business in this safe and friendly community. He notes that the lack of security bars on Steveston business windows is a refreshing change.
Halter, who is originally from Kindersley, Saskatchewan, has lived in B.C. for nine years. He has always had a love of art and drawing. Prior to being a tattoo artist he was involved in construction and painting. In 1997 he apprenticed at a tattoo shop in Lethbridge, Alberta. Before opening Steveston Tattoo Company, he worked at Dutchman Tattoos in Burnaby for eight years and tips his hat to mentor, John “the Dutchman”, a well respected tattoo artist.
Strong has been a tattoo enthusiast for as long as he can remember. On his twentieth birthday he began an apprenticeship which he finished with Vinnie Ruocco at New World Tattoo in Surrey, an opportunity for which he is grateful.
Getting your first tattoo is a big deal. There are many decisions involved including selecting the artwork, where you will position it, and of course, the long term commitment to place “permanent jewellery” on your skin. Celebrities have made getting inked extremely fashionable, and have helped take away the stigma of tattoos. Although the possibility of removal exists, (remember Angelina Jolie’s long gone “Billy Bob”?), Steveston Tattoo Company recommends researching your tattoo artwork well, and staying open minded when you choose to proceed. Halter and Strong take great pride in their artistry. They will work with you and take into consideration the magnitude of the image, and consider the longevity of the tattoo choice.
In the City of Richmond you must be age eighteen to get a tattoo, and Steveston Tattoo Company will not tattoo anyone younger. Although we shared a joke about the stereotypical drunken sailor who staggers into the tattoo shop, Steveston Tattoo Company will not tattoo anyone under the influence. The shop is as clean as a whistle. They use disposable gloves, single use needles, and the use of autoclave equipment for sterilization. They follow all of the hygienic procedures required by Coastal Health to run a professional and reputable shop.
Halter and Strong are a very warm and entertaining team, and their goal is to make you feel comfortable, whether it is your first, or one of many tattoos. Their diverse clientele ranges from long term customers who are building their collection, who Halter describes as an interesting and fun crowd, to housewives and lawyers. They have tattooed all walks of life; to date their oldest client was a 72-year-old grandmother.
Halter is known by friends as a family man, and is a devoted father and husband. He has three children, ages one, ten and sixteen. He and his family hope to move to the Steveston area soon as the commute from his home is proving to be time consuming. His family enjoys visiting the village and the proximity of the water appeals to him. Both Halter and Strong like the feel of small town Steveston, which is what attracts so many of us here.
Philanthropy is extremely important to Steveston Tattoo Company. In December they donated $20 from every tattoo towards Vancouver’s Covenant House. This year they intend to continue giving back to the community.
Welcome to the village, Steveston Tattoo Company, and thank you for injecting some extra colour into our lives!
stevestontattooco.com
110-12020 1st Avenue
604-284-5030
written by Sarah Gordon, photos by Sandra Steier
Steveston Tattoo Company promises the brightest colours for their works of art. The shop itself is a vibrant and eclectic masterpiece with its warm mustard coloured walls, dark gray wainscoting, an ornate chandelier, a mounted deer head wearing a crown, Balinese masks, antique cabinetry, not to mention an array of wall art. It is easy to imagine shrinking the richness and warmth of the décor down to the size of a tattoo.
Steveston Tattoo Company is the new kid in town; having opened for business in December. Owner, Ryan Halter, aka “Mr. Halter”, and his right-hand man, Jesse Strong, met four years ago when Halter tattooed Strong. They are pleased by the warm reception they have received as people stroll into the shop and welcome them to the village. Halter was aware that Steveston was lacking a tattoo shop, and decided to establish his business in this safe and friendly community. He notes that the lack of security bars on Steveston business windows is a refreshing change.
Halter, who is originally from Kindersley, Saskatchewan, has lived in B.C. for nine years. He has always had a love of art and drawing. Prior to being a tattoo artist he was involved in construction and painting. In 1997 he apprenticed at a tattoo shop in Lethbridge, Alberta. Before opening Steveston Tattoo Company, he worked at Dutchman Tattoos in Burnaby for eight years and tips his hat to mentor, John “the Dutchman”, a well respected tattoo artist.
Strong has been a tattoo enthusiast for as long as he can remember. On his twentieth birthday he began an apprenticeship which he finished with Vinnie Ruocco at New World Tattoo in Surrey, an opportunity for which he is grateful.
Getting your first tattoo is a big deal. There are many decisions involved including selecting the artwork, where you will position it, and of course, the long term commitment to place “permanent jewellery” on your skin. Celebrities have made getting inked extremely fashionable, and have helped take away the stigma of tattoos. Although the possibility of removal exists, (remember Angelina Jolie’s long gone “Billy Bob”?), Steveston Tattoo Company recommends researching your tattoo artwork well, and staying open minded when you choose to proceed. Halter and Strong take great pride in their artistry. They will work with you and take into consideration the magnitude of the image, and consider the longevity of the tattoo choice.
In the City of Richmond you must be age eighteen to get a tattoo, and Steveston Tattoo Company will not tattoo anyone younger. Although we shared a joke about the stereotypical drunken sailor who staggers into the tattoo shop, Steveston Tattoo Company will not tattoo anyone under the influence. The shop is as clean as a whistle. They use disposable gloves, single use needles, and the use of autoclave equipment for sterilization. They follow all of the hygienic procedures required by Coastal Health to run a professional and reputable shop.
Halter and Strong are a very warm and entertaining team, and their goal is to make you feel comfortable, whether it is your first, or one of many tattoos. Their diverse clientele ranges from long term customers who are building their collection, who Halter describes as an interesting and fun crowd, to housewives and lawyers. They have tattooed all walks of life; to date their oldest client was a 72-year-old grandmother.
Halter is known by friends as a family man, and is a devoted father and husband. He has three children, ages one, ten and sixteen. He and his family hope to move to the Steveston area soon as the commute from his home is proving to be time consuming. His family enjoys visiting the village and the proximity of the water appeals to him. Both Halter and Strong like the feel of small town Steveston, which is what attracts so many of us here.
Philanthropy is extremely important to Steveston Tattoo Company. In December they donated $20 from every tattoo towards Vancouver’s Covenant House. This year they intend to continue giving back to the community.
Welcome to the village, Steveston Tattoo Company, and thank you for injecting some extra colour into our lives!
stevestontattooco.com
110-12020 1st Avenue
604-284-5030
written by Sarah Gordon, photos by Sandra Steier
Tags: art, dutchman, jesse strong, richmond, ryan halter, Steveston, tattoo, village
Posted in Article by Sarah Gordon, Business | Comments Off
NEW! ECO-FRIENDLY BIRTHDAY PARTIES. Let the experienced teachers of With Our Own Two Hands organize your child’s birthday party in the heart of Steveston Village. There are options for gluten-free, organic, or vegan cakes and snacks. Goodybags are hand-sewn and include treats and toys that will last instead of plastic ones that are thrown out after a few days. Most of the decorations will be hand-sewn and made out of reusable materials. There is so much that is usually thrown out after parties and they offer an environmentally friendly way of celebrating a birthday. Some popular themes are: Circus/Carnival, Dinosaur, Mr.Party, Fairy Princess Party, Messy Party (which will include outdoor painting on murals, bubble throwing, mud play, etc.), Cat in the Hat, Art Party, and Yoga Dance.
