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Thank you
Photography by Erin Walker
Dr. Thomas Nakatsui is the award-winning Medical Director of Nakatsui DermaSurgery Centre. With cutting edge technology and expert care, Nakatsui DermaSurgery is Edmonton’s centre of excellence in cosmetic and medical procedures.
780-482-1414 nakatsuiderm com Suite 200, 9670 142 Street Crestwood Centre, Edmonton
Photography by Romy Young
Editor's Note
As exciting as the future can be, there is something comforting in vintage and antique objects. There are stories in those buildings and tales to be told in the worn edges of rings and bracelets. Who walked there? Who wore that?
No matter the period, there is a sense of strength in
past eras—borne of resilience and survival, perhaps. The George Durrand brick house on Saskatchewan Drive has stood for 112 years, and thanks to a phenomenal restoration by its current owner, will likely stand for 100 more. You can read more about it in our Real Estate section. Perhaps one of you will be its next caretaker.
The Durrand house was being built just as Strathcona and Edmonton amalgamated to become the City of Edmonton in 1912. The High Level Bridge was under construction, and the downtown skyline was devoid of the glittering skyscrapers that the house’s inhabitants now feast their eyes upon every day.
I wonder what it was like to cruise down Whyte Avenue in a brand new, shiny 1957 Chevy, or dance in saddle shoes to Chubby Checker at a sock hop. It’s fun to dress up and imagine living the way our parents did in the ‘50s or the Mad Men days of the ‘60s. Browsing through the clothing racks at Swish makes me want to embrace polyester and throw a martini party. Retro is cool.
Here's to the past. To those of you who have preserved these precious pieces, you have my eternal thanks. We're fortunate that we can enjoy the convenience of what modern technology provides, but also dip back into yesteryear whenever we feel like it. And, here's to the future that is ours to create. I hope that generations to come will benefit from us taking care of what we have right now.
– Twyla
Contributors
Erin Walker is a professional food photographer, recipe developer and food stylist, with clients in Edmonton and across North America. When she’s not spending time behind the lens or in the kitchen, you can find her reading, gardening and enjoying everyday life with her husband and her two busy boys.
Francesca Roznicki is a creative entrepreneur and busy mom of two boys. Always passionate about interior design, she has worked exclusively within the interior design and home building industry in Edmonton. When she isn't busy shuffling kids to sports practice and writing for her clients, she's scouring the local real estate listings and diving into decor magazines with a piping hot Americano.
Phebe Melan, Originally from Malaysia, Phebe moved to the UK when she was 19 and Alberta in 2013. She is a wildly creative photographer who uses her skill to uniquely capture images and make people look and feel great. Photography has allowed Phebe to expand her outlook on life. Her mission is to make every moment count, and she does so by capturing many of them frame by frame, in the process.
Esperanza Monzini Shen is a creative marketing professional with a focus on the beauty and fashion industry. Her inspiration stems from growing up and living abroad in China, Italy and the UK. Her goal as a fashion, hair and makeup stylist is to push boundaries and let art continue to be her muse.
Jay Walker, originally from Halifax, has lived in Alberta for 15 years. He started shooting street photography on his way to a hiking and climbing destination and instantly fell in love with the process. Jay’s portfolio reflects his passion for interacting with people and is a compilation of street, nature and sporting photography from around the world.
Steven Hope Is an award winning creative, working in commercials and film around the world. He often uses minimalism in his work, allowing the concept to stand alone.
Publisher's Note
Embracing August in Edmonton 10
Profile
Building community through music: DJ Junior Brown 12
Fashion
Swish brings retro elegance to modern fashion 20
Cuisine
A pink paradise: Dolly's Cocktail Bar 58
Drinks
Exploring the artisanal apple ciders of summer 68
Arts & Culture
Jeffrey Adam Meszaros and the art of bottle cap mosaics 72
Travel
Seattle: A perfect blend of nature, cuisine and luxury 78
Publisher's Note
PHOTO BY TATIYANA SEMENOVA
The August issue of our magazine brings a special touch of seasonal joy and community spirit. This month, we delve into the heart of Edmonton's vibrant arts and culture scene to celebrate the city's rich tapestry of festivals, music and outdoor activities. From the melodies of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, to the whimsical performances of the Fringe Theatre Festival, our August issue captures the essence of what makes this city come alive in the summer. As a publisher, it's a privilege to share these stories and events that connect us all, bringing a sense of togetherness and appreciation for the unique charm of our community.
In creating this issue, I felt an even deeper connection to Edmonton. Each article, interview and feature is a reflection of the passion and creativity that thrives here. The stories on local art, dining, and people who make a difference, pay tribute to the city's spirit and resilience. It's an honour to be part of this journey; to bring these narratives to our readers and to join in celebrating the vibrant life of Edmonton.
The pages we’ve dedicated to vintage women's fashion, along with a real estate feature on a stunning, historic home offer a glimpse into the elegance of past eras, and the timeless beauty of our city's architectural heritage. History continues to shape our community's unique identity.
Thank you for joining us in these stories that help to celebrate the past while keeping us connected to the present.
– Elsa
Soulful sounds and strong roots DJ Junior Brown
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN HOPE
From a young age, DJ Junior Brown established a strong community of music lovers in Edmonton. An established serial entrepreneur, Brown is part of the ownership group that runs Red Star, The Bower, and Lock Stock Coffee, all on Jasper Avenue. Brown grew up surrounded by community and culture, and injects that passion into the tunes he spins every weekend night. We sat down with the talented DJ to ask about how he came to be such a statement in our city’s music scene, how important the roots of music are, and what’s most important to him when it comes to living the good life.
Tell us about how you got your start in music and business.
I grew up in St. Albert and my musical journey started at a very young age, when I was about five years old. My parents really embraced their Caribbean heritage and were always throwing house and hall parties. The music that came out of the speaker boxes was a great mix of soul, funk, disco, reggae and calypso. Surrounded by all that music and culture made it natural for me to spend time playing in my parents’ basement in their DJ booth. I made mixtapes for my friends with my dad’s early hip hop records like Grandmaster Flash, then progressed to artists like Public Enemy.
I travelled to London with my family when I was 15 and that is where I discovered electronic and house sound. When we came back, I wanted to share this new music and culture with people, so I started throwing my own parties for my friends. Starting these parties with my friends was the very beginning of this business—and those friends that I threw hall parties with are my business partners today.
It was such a natural progression from my parents’ basement, absorbing all of this culture, and being
a sponge to the music, to throwing my own house and hall parties, to eventually hosting club nights in the city at different bars. My business partners and I opened up Halo in 2001. At the time, Edmonton’s downtown was not known for nightlife—you went to Whyte Avenue or West Edmonton Mall for that. But when we opened, we had instant success because of the community we had already built. We started out being open seven days a week and we were really focused on house music. But back then, it was still so new and many people weren’t familiar with that sound. Our business shifted over time and Halo had its ups and downs. It was open for 13 years before we re-branded it as The Bower.
It's been a long journey. We've been downtown running these businesses for 23 years. We've seen the ups, we've seen downs, and as we progress we’ve become more seasoned in business. But the DJ thing is in my DNA—it’s in my blood. Being able to operate a business and still fulfill my passion is such a gratifying experience. Because I am involved in the business side of things, I see the reservations coming through, I know who is coming, what song requests they have and what kind of sound they are looking for when I am in the DJ booth every weekend night. This is my home… it’s my sanctuary.
What changes and trends have you seen in the DJ scene?
The internet and social media have caused the most changes. Anyone who has a computer can just download music, put it on a flashdrive and call themselves a DJ. People had to be a lot more discerning in the past, so the attention to detail was different back then versus now. I feel like some of the focus has moved from the music, to things like logos and how people look behind the turntables. Music should always be number one.
The way I see it, there’s soul, funk and disco. Soul music became R&B. Funk became hip hop. Disco became house music. DJs should understand the foundation—if you're playing R&B and hip hop, you should know about funk. If you're playing house music, you should know about where disco music came from. This music came from oppressed black communities… house music started in black communities in Chicago and New York. You need to pay homage to the foundation of the music. You should know the history of the music you play.
What have you found to be effective ways for you to relax and unwind with a job that is so on the go?
My way of relaxing is still work. It’s going through all the music for our Saturday club night called For Those Who Know which focuses on soulful house and disco. I'm constantly getting inspired each day. It could be by digging through the records or going through my books in our basement. We call our basement the analog station, because that’s where everything is tangible—books, records, nothing is digital down there. It forces you to go to the record shelf, touch the sleeves and grab a record.
What are your three non-negotiable luxuries you need to have in your life?
Music is definitely number one. If I'm ever feeling down or uninspired, I know I need to hear some soulful music. Soulful music means, no matter what the genre it is, it's got to hit the heart. This is how I present it at the club too. I know what music does for me, but I know what it does for others, too, so I feel like when I share it with people, whether it's on the dance floor or through a text message, it’s a point of connection.
To be honest, family is also number one because without the support of my family, we wouldn't even be here having this conversation. My parents and my in-laws and my wife, my young son—everybody is so supportive and we need that strong supportive network and community to be ourselves and keep us inspired. I am honestly just so grateful that I was raised in such an enriched culture. Weekend after weekend, we were always visiting friends and family. Being around such a strong and vibrant community was the catalyst for me to create my own community—and I am still building that today.
Vintage Revival
Turning back the clock with Swish
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY
WALKER
FASHION BY SWISH
MODELLING AGENCY MODE MODEL INTERNATIONAL MODELS JULIA ARDIEL & NYANKUER NGOR
HAIR & MAKE UP BY ESPERANZA SHEN
Step into a fashion time machine with Swish, as we cruise the city’s streets and embrace the charm of yesteryear. Our latest feature explores how Swish’s curated collection of classic vintage pieces is making a stylish comeback, proving that sometimes, the best way forward is to look back. Discover how yesterday’s elegance is redefining today’s trends with unparalleled sophistication.
WWW.SWISH-VINTAGE.COM
Aviators - eye stylist
Multi strand pearls
1930s orange beaded
Cinnabar bracelet
Acrylic Kenneth Jay
1960s Hawaiian
Elliot
Hogl
Saint Laurent Gold
necklace
Lane bracelet
jumpsuit
denim jacket
navy shoes
Racer back
beaded top
80s Italian linen pants
1950s patent leather purse
Sparkle clip on earrings
Chie Mihara sandals
Bottega Veneta red frameseye stylist
Vintage Harry Rosen suit
Ralph Lauren
silk blouse
Oversized floral coat
Vintage silk slip skirt
Vintage black suitcase
Valentino boots
Treasure Hunter
Clinton Beck's antique empire
WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHEBE MELAN
By the age of 10, Clinton Beck’s destiny in antiques was written in the stars. His entrepreneurial spirit was ignited early when he wheeled his wagon full of empty bottles past an antique store. “There was a guy standing outside smoking a cigarette and he looked in my little wagon and said, ‘Hey, can I see your bottles?’ He looked at them and said, ‘I’ll give you five bucks for that bottle.’ In my mind I was like, five dollars, that's amazing, I was going to sell it for a nickel.” It was in this pivotal moment that Beck discovered the importance of recognizing value and selling to the right audience.
As a teenager, Beck got his first job working for a veterinarian who lived in a Victorian mansion that he had disassembled in Ontario and rebuilt brick-by-brick on an estate in Port Langley, B.C. Hired to bartend a party one night, Beck walked through the front doors and was instantly enamoured. The home was filled with extravagant antique pieces unlike anything he had ever seen. That experience instilled in him an immediate appreciation for the beauty and history of antiques.
At 16, he found a part-time job at a jewellery store, where his admiration for antiques and jewellery blossomed, eventually leading him to rent a table at a local flea market. After graduating high school, he opened his first store on King George Highway in Surrey. The venture was a success, and Beck expanded his business, operating multiple stores in British Columbia before life circumstances brought him to Edmonton, where he opened Beck Antiques & Jewellery.
Today, Beck Antiques & Jewellery is a well-known name, with stores in Edmonton, Sherwood Park and West Edmonton Mall. The West Edmonton location also houses a unique horror museum, a passion project for Beck, filled with dioramas and memorabilia from classic horror films. This museum, free to the public with an option for donations, underscores Beck’s dedication to sharing his love for antiques and collectibles with the community.
The stores are treasure troves, featuring extensive collections of antique jewellery, coins, pop culture items, and rare historical artifacts. Beck prides himself on offering pieces that are not only beautiful, but also steeped in history. His collection of vintage jewellery is one of the largest in Canada.
One of the key factors that sets Beck Antiques & Jewellery apart is the expertise and quality assurance behind every piece. Beck employs some of Canada’s top gemologists who meticulously evaluate and authenticate each piece of jewellery. Additionally, the store offers comprehensive appraisal services, drawing on decades of experience and an extensive knowledge base.
The watch division of Beck Antiques is equally impressive, featuring a wide array of antique and luxury watches that are serviced to the highest standards. Beck’s connections with major Swiss watch companies ensure that all watches sold are of exceptional quality and come with warranties, providing buyers with confidence in their purchases.
Beck is also involved in a project aimed at nurturing young entrepreneurs. His story is featured in the book, Badass Entrepreneurs, set to release in September, with proceeds supporting Junior Achievement, an organization dedicated to empowering young business minds.
WWW.BECKANTIQUES.COM
Vintage Vibes: The 1957 Chevy Bel Air
Cruise through time with classic style and modern performance
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON LEENTVAAR
Journey through the Golden Age with this restored 1957 Chevy Bel Air hardtop, one of the most recognizable American cars of all time.
In its striking Roman Red and white two-tone finish, this Bel Air commands attention both on and off the road, capturing the essence of 1950s Americana. Powered by a high-performance 454 big-block engine paired with a 700-R4 overdrive automatic transmission, this classic car has power to spare. The upgraded F-Body suspension and steering ensure a comfortable and controlled ride, making every journey—long or short—a pleasure. Inside, the meticulously crafted interior combines vintage charm with contemporary comfort. The period-correct exterior lights add authenticity while illuminating the road with a beautiful and functional glow. The iconic rear wings do a fine job of enhancing the car’s aesthetic appeal. This ‘57 Bel Air is a masterpiece of automotive history; as beautiful to look at as it is to drive.
In the Pink
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN WALKER
From florally pink-papered walls to full-length, rosy sheers and cotton candy-coloured everything, Dolly’s Cocktail Bar is a bold-faced study of all things pink.
The name has nothing to do with Dolly Parton, although with how everything is exaggerated, frilly, and fantastically feminine, most everyone assumes that’s the case.
“Mimi was our first choice for a name because that’s Emma’s nickname,” explains co-owner, Kyla Kazeil referring to managing partner, Emma Frazier, “but there’s already a place in Edmonton called that so we had to choose something different.”
Dolly’s works. It’s fun with a bit of 60s flair. Throw on a muu-muu and you’ll fit right in.
This is the third restaurant that Kazeil and her husband, Justin Der have opened. Investing in employees by offering partnerships to those with the “right-stuff” is standard operating procedure. It’s not hard to understand why their staff remain deeply committed to their bosses.
With Dolly’s, this power couple can claim yet another
winning concept. They’ve aced the decor, the food and the drinks, just like they have with Fu’s Repair Shop and The Common. Every Kazeil-Der project is unique with intriguing decor, interesting food and rock-solid cocktails. Dolly’s is no exception.
The culinary program comes courtesy of Josh Nhan who creates dishes inspired by his Vietnamese-Peruvian ancestry. “I was nurtured by the women in my family,” he says of the guidance (both in and out of the kitchen) he received from his Peruvian mother and her sisters. “And Winnie gave me a lot of confidence,” he says, referring to Chef Winnie Chen, managing partner of Fu’s who guided Nhan in bringing his creative ideas to life. “She told me not to bend too much in my vision.”
Nhan’s vision is to represent the maternal side of his blended heritage and do justice to the cuisine by offering foods like Andean corn nuts, patacones (fried plantain), and empanadas made from his mother’s recipe. “Peruvian food is pepper-driven. I use different types, but the aji amarillo is the beloved pepper of Peru.”
If you order the chicarones (fried chicken with sweet potato and squash doughnuts), that particular pepper is responsible for the yellow hue, mid-level heat and underlying raisin-like sweetness in the accompanying aioli.
The cocktails at Dolly’s follow in the footsteps of Fu’s, which means creative, boozy concoctions with fun names.
The passionfruit-laced Love Hangover is highly recommended as is the blackberry-infused, mezcal-based Dolly’s Dreamhouse, or any cocktail that comes with a tiny umbrella or piece of Double Bubble clothespinned to the side. The hottest seats in town are out back on the patio, a midcentury modern grotto where drinks are served from a pink-and-coral vintage camper draped in miniature disco balls.
“It’s hard to have a bad time here,” says the bartender as she slides a Pornstar martini our way.
Empanadas and cold drinks sound pretty good for August, no matter where you find a seat—outside under a sea of paper lanterns, or inside beneath a sea of fuzzy pink tassels in a room bathed in a rosy glow.
Come for the food and stay for the fun. Find Dolly’s at 9902 - 109 Street, Edmonton.
The World of Cider
Turning apples into liquid gold
WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
While beer and Ready-To-Drink products (RTDs) might be what many reach for during hot summer days, cider with its crisp, dry, refreshing apple flavour is a popular category for those searching for a lower alcohol, grain-free option.
It’s not just regular grocery store apples like Macintosh, Fuji or Granny Smith that create this drink, but rather heirloom and indigenous cider apples that are specifically grown and harvested.
Sea Cider, an artisanal cidery located in Saanichton, British Columbia on Vancouver Island, has groves of organically grown heirloom apples with names like Kings & Spies, Pippin, Dabinett, and Bittersweet, just to name a few. The farm and cider house boasts 1300 apple trees on ten acres with over 50 heirloom varieties. Owner Kristen Needham purchased the property in 2007 with a vision to farm apples organically and create traditional fermented ciders. Nearly 20 years later, the cidery is a top attraction not just in Victoria, but on the entire island. On their own, the apple trees create a gorgeous setting, but add the views across the water to the mountains, and you have a venue with a perfect backdrop for weddings, family functions and corporate gatherings. Sea Cider also offers non-alcoholic ciders. Look for their product at Sherbrooke Liquor at 11819 St. Albert Trail and 9271 - 50 Street, Edmonton.
Brittany, in the Cornouaille region of France, produces robust, bitter ciders; rich in sugars, yet fermented to dryness. Le Brun Bigoud has been here since 1955, making naturally sparkling, unpasteurized, and 100% pure juice ciders. Unlike apple picking as we know it, apples are collected on the ground which guarantees absolute maturity of the fruit. Twenty varieties of native French bitter and bitter-sweet cider apples are grown. With different times of ripeness, three passes are necessary to collect all the apples. The apples are washed, hand sorted to eliminate any rotten apples, then fermented with the skins intact to obtain the pink colour and pure, quality juice. The Cidre Le Brun rosé has intense, ripe, fruity red apple notes with nuances of cinnamon—a perfect cider for an aperitif. This unique rosé cider is available at Canadian Liquor Store at 101, 18003 - 105 Avenue, Edmonton.
In France, Normandy might be considered the birthplace of cider. Within Normandy, Pay d’Auge is an area known for Calvados production and also quality cider production with Domaine Pierre Huet in the heart of it all. With more than 25 varieties of cider apples and a terroir suited to growing them, they have more than a century of practice in producing these artisanal ciders. The Pierre Huet Cidre Pays d’Auge is labelled as an AOP—a protected designation of origin ensuring quality. The cider is naturally fermented with a nose of musky apples and nutmeg. It is semi-sweet and offers a perfect balance of sweet and bitter. Try with fresh cream dishes and desserts. Look for this authentic cider at Bin 104 Fine Wine and Spirits at 5454 Calgary Trail, Edmonton.
Taking a Calculated Risk and Pursuing a Passion
How Jeffrey Meszaros found success as a full-time artist
WORDS BY BREANNA MROCZEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN MESZAROS
While working as a bartender almost two decades ago, Jeffrey Adam Meszaros (JAM) collected colourful bottle caps and, because they reminded him of paint, started experimenting with bottle cap mosaic art. “These bottle caps hold memories, they’re witnesses to moments,” Meszaros says. “Maybe you opened a beer because your team just won a game, or you’re meeting up with a buddy after a breakup. I see these bottle caps as little moments, and when I make a mosaic it’s like this image is made up of all these different moments.”
In October 2022, after getting commissions from the Chicago Bulls and Labatt, and looking for work-life balance after the birth of his first child, Meszaros decided to take a calculated risk and leave a stable job in renewable energy to pursue art full time. Within a week of leaving his job, Meszaros got a commission from a distillery in Austin, Texas for two murals. “I took that as a good sign and a confidence boost,” he says. But after that, things slowed down so Meszaros just started making pieces he thought would sell well. When a portrait of David Bowie he made for a friend went viral on TikTok, and inquiries and commissions started pouring in, Meszaros was able to quadruple his prices within that first year alone just to align with the demand. Now, customers wait 12 months to get a custom piece from JAM Bottle Cap Art.
Meszaros says social media has been essential to supporting his full-time artistic career and having had some viral moments is just icing on the cake. If you spend any time on TikTok, you may be one of the 2.4 million people (and counting) who have seen his portrait of Anthony Bourdain made entirely out of bottle caps.
“Social media is almost everything, nowadays,” Meszaros says. “It’s kind of a necessary evil. You could probably make it as an artist without social media, but it really helps—especially if you’re someone in my shoes who’s trying to get going.” Meszaros maintains an active social media presence to find clients and showcase his personality. “I like talking to people, I like interacting with people. I often buy art because of the artist behind it, so I also wanted to put myself out there. I think people like that personal side of my social media.”
Despite the demand for his work, Meszaros still makes time for his own projects. After working with bottle caps for 17 years, he is confident in his talent as a mosaic portrait artist, and is starting to dabble in new mediums.
“I’m trying to push myself artistically,” Meszaros says. “I want to try different things like more three-dimensional sculptures, or pieces with movement in them. I want to try different materials. I want to play a bit more with a different sense and dimensions of my art.”
Meszaros is in the experimentation phase of new styles of art and says he’s excited to (eventually) share what he’s working on. No need to worry, fans and followers; his signature bottle cap art will remain the backbone of his artistic practice.
The Emerald City
Seeing Seattle by land, sea and air
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Seattle is a photographer's fantasyland, a gastronomer’s smorgasbord, and a nature lover’s nirvana. This port city boasts a bustling social calendar, no matter the time of year. Go big, or gear down; be busy or give in to meditative recalibration. Go once and you will yearn to return. The biggest decision you’ll have to make is deciding the length of your stay.
Seattle consistently makes the list of top American cities known for their parks and trail systems. That, along with the abundance of year-long greenery, makes self-guided cycling or touring with a group an excellent way to explore The Emerald City, as Seattle is often called. With nearly 500 parks, the area offers endless places from which to sit and contemplate life while taking in the beauty of Puget Sound and the mountains that surround it, including the famous Mts. Baker, Rainier and St. Helens.
A visit to Pike Place Market is a must. Putting yourself in the hands of the pros is the best way to get up close and personal with the Market. A walking tour company called Savor Seattle was just named in the top 10 American food tours by USA Today. Spend a few hours with them, and you'll come away informed, entertained and well-fed. The vendors at Pike Place Market are independent, small family businesses; something that hasn't changed since the market started in the early 1900s.
In 2016, after a 100 million dollar renovation, the Seattle Space Needle unveiled the world’s first (and only) revolving glass floor 500 feet above street level. Called The Loupe, the views at every turn are spectacular. Guests can enjoy an outdoor stroll around the Needle on the observation deck or take in the sights from the revolving Loupe Lounge while sipping Champagne, cocktails, and top-shelf spirits like Louis XIII Cognac and Clase Azul Ultra tequila.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass museum is steps away from the Needle and features the works of Dale Chihuly, a world renowned glass blower from Seattle. If you’ve walked through the Bellagio hotel in Las Vegas, you will have no doubt noticed the thousands of pieces of his handiwork that make up a 2,000 square-foot display in the ceiling of the lobby. In the Garden and Glass museum, the artist’s creations hang from the ceiling and sprout from the ground in areas inside and out of the building. You can easily spend a few hours there, especially if you get waylaid at The Bar, the onsite restaurant that serves local brews and spectacular Washington wines, along with dishes made of Pacific Northwest seasonal ingredients.
Water, water, everywhere, and experiencing it from the forward deck of a luxury yacht is a beautiful way to while away the days. Boatsetter is a boat rental and yacht chartering company with a fleet of options to accommodate all levels of sailors—from the sit-back-and-drink-rosé types, to experienced boaters ready to hoist the flag and set sail on their own. The area around Seattle has a multitude of lakes, bays and inlets for waterlovers to be in it or on it, as well as piers and patios for those who simply want to be near the water to soak up the serenity it provides.
Landlubbers with a penchant for luxury would do well to secure a suite at the Level Seattle on Boren Avenue. The best of everything is at your fingertips here: the view, the amenities, the location, and all the finer things in life that come with luxury accommodations available in 1 to 3-bedroom apartment-style units, and penthouse suites ranging from 1,200 to 4,400 square feet in size. All guests have access to the games room, meeting rooms, karaoke lounge, movie theatre, indoor and outdoor pools, hot tub, gym, Peloton spin studio, outdoor BBQ areas, and more. Rooms are equipped with in-suite laundry and full kitchens, so if you want to enjoy a home-away-from-home, made-from-scratch meal with all those fresh ingredients from Pike Place Market, you’re set.
Getting to know Seattle can be as low key, or as lux as you like. Take in nature, take in the water, take in great food with a dose of spectacular scenery and vistas at every turn. This city should be high on your list of North American places to visit.
When to visit:
June, July and August are prime good weather months and the busiest; shoulder months of May, September and October are a magical time, too, but with cooler weather and less tourist traffic. Christmas in Seattle is also a great experience. A summer spin on the Ferris wheel is a beautiful and relaxing way to see Seattle from a unique perspective, but save the date for December 31 where you can ring in the New Year complete with countdown, bubbles, music, and spectacular views from your private gondola.
Plan your trip:
Let the locals help! Buy the book 111 Places in Seattle That You Must Not Miss by Seattle resident, Harriet Baskas.
Get the Seattle CityPASS to help with your attraction itinerary.
How to get there:
If arriving by air, several airlines offer direct flights that land at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac).
If you’re visiting Vancouver, consider extending your vacation and book a trip to Seattle with Harbour Air. The flight from downtown Vancouver to Lake Union (Seattle) takes just over an hour and that includes check-in time and clearing customs on the U.S. side on arrival. No muss, no fuss, and a scenic seaplane ride, as well.
From Picture Frames to Precious Finds
Inside Maven & Grace
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHEBE MELAN
Located near Mill Creek on Edmonton's vibrant Whyte Avenue, Maven & Grace is a treasure trove of history, nostalgia and sustainable beauty. This charming boutique has expanded and evolved since Kathy Sharp first purchased the store in 2012. What began as a modest picture framing shop has blossomed into a beloved local haven for vintage enthusiasts and discerning shoppers. "We bought the picture framing shop a few doors down, in 2012, and that's where Maven & Grace started—at the front of the framing shop," Sharp recalls. "When we first bought that business, there was a woman selling vintage items out of the front of the store, but she moved to Vancouver. We decided we liked the aesthetic and that's how Maven & Grace was born.” Sharp moved the decor shop into their current space in 2019, and kept the frame shop in its original location, just steps away.
Walking into Maven & Grace is like stepping into a thoughtfully curated European marketplace. Artisanal candles fill the shelves and create eye-catching displays. Each corner of the store is filled with items that tell a story: meticulously selected home decor pieces, exquisite kitchen utensils from brands like the renowned German company, Redecker, and a small but enchanting fresh floral section.
Sharp and her importing team carefully source items from small and family-owned businesses that prioritize ethical practices and sustainability. The store’s beautiful display furniture, much of which is for sale, adds to the eclectic European vibe, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. The small pantry area offers quality food items like Jacek Chocolate and Mezos Roastery, adding local flavour to the eclectic mix.
Personal touches make Maven & Grace a special place. The vintage jewellery, showcased in a stunning wooden display case lined with teal velvet, tells tales of a bygone era, and a bank of quirky, artistic greeting cards help to complete any gift shopping mission. Sharp’s love of vintage items gives these previously owned pieces a new lease on life, while allowing customers to bring a bit of history into their homes.
Maven & Grace is a destination for those seeking something beautiful and heartfelt. From the antiques to the jewellery, every item is chosen with care, inviting visitors to not just shop, but to experience the discovery of something new and unique. With each visit, this charming boutique feels less like a store and more like a home, filled with treasures waiting to be uncovered.
Find Maven & Grace at 9601 - 82 Avenue, Edmonton.
WWW.MAVENANDGRACE.COM
Brickhouse Beauty
Own a piece of history in Old Strathcona
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
There are few houses that have been as meticulously restored as the George Durrand Residence on Saskatchewan Drive.
If Mr. Durrand appeared on the steps of the porch today, he’d swear nothing has changed—and that’s a compliment to the current owner who spent three years restoring the 2.5-storey Edwardianstyle home, from the mortar between the bricks, to new cornices, to the period glass in the newly refurbished rope-and-pulley windows, and to the maple hardwood floors, cherry wood-covered walls, and radiators stripped of multiple layers of paint that revealed beautiful designs in the iron works.
The building is currently used for commercial
purposes with professional tenants occupying a portion of the rooms designated as offices. The option to remain commercial or revert back to residential is for the next owner to decide. There are seven offices on the main and second floor, with four more in an immaculately finished basement; every room has fibre optic connectivity for modern day working and living. The top floor is an open space that feels like a hideaway and would be perfect for meditation or yoga classes.
From inside the front rooms, the views to the north are of the spectacular River Valley and the city skyline, with the wide steps of the front 6-pillar porch offering the perfect place to sit and take it all in.
The landscaping and curb appeal of this beautiful property is without fault.
If you are a fan of Old Strathcona and its festivals, restaurants, shops and community atmosphere, the house at 10417 Saskatchewan Drive is a few minutes’ walk away from it all. The rear parking lot can accommodate 14 vehicles which means you’ll never have to look for a parking spot while attending the Fringe or the farmers’ market, ever again.
Behind the house and next to the parking lot is an additional lot on which a structure with income earning potential could be built.
George Durrand made his name in construction and carpentry. This is the house he built for his family. Later, the house was purchased by another prominent businessman, Harold Gould MacDonald, who lived there until 1923. His firm, H.G. MacDonald, was a company of contractors that grew into Christensen and MacDonald, who, in 1957, built the Milner Building at 104 Street and Jasper Avenue, among others.
Built with pride and precision, and restored with love and integrity. The Durrand House is listed on the Alberta Register of Historic Places and now waits for its next owner.
CHRISTOPHER BLOWER REMAX
August Highlights
Celebrating culture, music and art all month long
WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Heritage Festival
August 3 - 5 - Edmonton Expo Centre and Borden Park
Edmonton’s Heritage Festival is the world’s largest 3-day multicultural celebration, showcasing the cultures of over 90 countries through performances, authentic cuisine and unique crafts. Stroll through pavilions to experience the traditions, food, and artistry of the world right in the heart of our city.
WWW.HERITAGEFEST.CA
Edmonton Folk Festival
August 8 - 11 - Gallagher Park
The Edmonton Folk Festival features a stellar lineup of folk, roots and world music artists performing on multiple stages. Some of this year’s artists include Black Pumas, Blue Rodeo, La Misa Negra, Angie McMahon, Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, and more! Enjoy breathtaking city views, a variety of food vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're a die-hard folk fan or simply love live music, this festival promises an unforgettable experience.
WWW.EDMONTONFOLKFEST.ORG
Edmonton Fringe Festival
August 15 - 25 - Old Strathcona and Whyte Avenue
Held in the heart of Old Strathcona, Edmonton’s Fringe Festival showcases a range of performances from cutting-edge dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies. With over 1,600 shows to choose from, there's something for everyone. Enjoy street performances, local food vendors, and a lively festival atmosphere. Celebrate the spirit of independent theatre while discovering new talent at North America's largest and oldest Fringe Festival.
WWW.FRINGETHEATRE.CA
ESO Outdoors
August 15 - 25 - Multiple Locations
If you love the symphony and the great outdoors, you’re in for a treat! Enjoy the enchanting sounds of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra outdoors this month with ESO Outdoors, presented by RE/MAX. From classical masterpieces to Hollywood film scores and more, curated groups of ESO musicians will bring free concerts to neighbourhoods across the city.
WWW.WINSPEARCENTRE.COM
Opera Al Fresco
August 16 - U of A Botanic Garden
Experience the opera outdoors with Opera al Fresco at the stunning University of Alberta Botanic Garden. Presented by Edmonton Opera, this event features open-air performances set against the backdrop of lush gardens. Enjoy an evening of exquisite opera scenes and arias as the sun sets. A selection of food and beverages is on offer making this the perfect summer outing for music lovers.
WWW.EDMONTONOPERA.COM
Cirque Italia Water Circus
August 29 - September 8 - West Edmonton Mall
Come one, come all to Cirque Italia’s spectacular journey through time at West Edmonton Mall. This year’s show takes you back to the 1950s with retro charm featuring sock hops, drive-in theatres, and Elvis Presley tunes. Enjoy thrilling performances by a diverse cast that showcases master juggling, daring trampoline acts, and the exhilarating Wheel of Death. This dynamic, animal-free circus promises an unforgettable adventure for all ages.
