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Thank you
Photography by Jay Walker
Editor's Note
The air feels different in September. Heavy but crisp. It makes you want to pack a lunch, head to a park, spread a blanket on a patch of leaf-strewn grass and spend an hour just…breathing. The air is heady with energy. September is a special month. I’ve always loved it best.
We’re at the three-quarter mark of the year; the time between the highs of summer vacations and, for our farmers, the well-deserved rest that comes after harvest. September is a time to contemplate. Its warmth and changing colours prompt us to take stock of who and what we are.
Life is a continual evolution, and this magazine is no different. Edmonton is constantly shifting; it’s full of stories, new people to meet, and new experiences to embrace. I love this city for how it continues to surprise and inspire me, and I’m happy to be able to share those stories and experiences with Modern Luxuria’s readers.
This is September. I hope you love it as much as I do.
– 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.
Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things wine, but is especially passionate about Italy's native grape varieties. She is a WSET diploma holder, an Italian Wine Scholar and one of only 15 Italian Wine Experts In the world through the Vinitaly international Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, have dinner parties and relax on the patio.
Tom Sedens is a husband, father of 3, lover of pie and a world traveler that has explored over 50 countries. He is an accredited member of AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) who loves driving anything, anytime, anywhere.
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.
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.
Publisher's Note
A season of reflections and new beginnings 10
Profile
Moirae Choquette's intuitive journey to creating Tomato Wheels Lambrusco 12
Fashion
Mr. Derk's exclusive Wild West collection 20
Cuisine
Darling: from pop-up dreams to restaurant reality 38
Drinks
Vine Arts: standing out on the Alberta liquor scene 46
Arts & Culture
Laura Bachynski: music, art and resilience 54
Travel
Discovering Naramata’s timeless appeal 66
Publisher's Note
Whether you’ve embarked on travels abroad, or discovered new adventures right here in our city and province, I hope you’ve had a chance to embrace and enjoy the most of the summer season. September is the time for many of us to settle back into our routines, and reflect on what we’ve worked toward and accomplished these past few months. At Modern Luxuria, the team has been busy forging and solidifying partnerships and paving the way for new and exciting collaborations.
As we transition into the fall season, we are poised to share the results of those efforts with our readers. The upcoming issues of the magazine will showcase the results of our dedicated work and the outstanding partnerships we have cultivated. We are eager to continue bringing you exceptional content that celebrates the finest in lifestyle, luxury, and sophistication. I hope you’ll join us on this journey as we continue to take the Modern Luxuria experience to new heights.
– Elsa
PHOTO BY TATIYANA SEMENOVA
Entrepreneurial Evolution
Moirae Choquette and the love of Lambrusco
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI
LOCATION RGE RD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONTAINE
LEWIS
In the bustling world of entrepreneurship, a new venture often starts with a spark of creativity. For Moirae Choquette, that spark was ignited by intuition and a love of good wine. Tomato Wheels, originally a spice and kitchenware company that Choquette began in 2019, evolved through numerous pivots to become the well known Lambrusco brand it is today. We sat down with Choquette to learn more about the power of intuition, perseverance, and the magic that happens when passion meets purpose
What was your career path prior to becoming an entrepreneur?
I never set out to be an entrepreneur. My first job in the marketing and communications field was at Edmonton Economic Development. I had so much freedom for creativity and that's where I fell in love with experiential marketing. Then I moved on to the world of tech and I worked with Jobber. Whether it was brand partnerships or their influencer marketing program, I got to connect with a lot of entrepreneurs and started to understand the business of an entrepreneur. I took a lot of that knowledge with me and when I went to work for goodmorning.com in Edmonton; that's where I learned about research data.
Looking back, I was learning all these things, but I had no clue why. It was during my time at goodmorning.com where I really dove into my creativity. I started this side business called Tomato Wheels off the side of my desk and worked on it on the weekends and in my free time. At that time, it was launching as a spice company, so very different from where we are today.
Through all of the pivots the company took, from spices to kitchenware, I was learning how to do all of these things to ultimately pivot to Lambrusco, which is what we are today.
Tell us about those pivots.
Once we launched kitchenware, kitchen towels, and wooden spoons, I wondered how often I was going to get repeat customers from the network I had, as people weren’t buying wooden spoons or kitchen towels every month. I realized I would need some pretty big marketing dollars to compete within the industry because there are so many huge brands doing the same thing. At that point, I knew there was still a lot to learn. I continued to take baby steps hoping the universe would show me the way. I've always been a very intuitive person. When the idea of Lambrusco (a red wine I had fallen in love with in Italy) popped into my head and wouldn’t leave, I knew it was an intuitive calling. At the time, I knew nothing about wine, but I knew how to do research and I knew marketing. I figured I could use everything that I had learned to launch this passion into a business.
Lambrusco is somewhat unique. Tell us more about why this wine called to you.
I discovered Lambrusco years ago when I was visiting Italy and wanted it to be like what I had tried and fell in love with there. It is a sparkling red wine that is meant to be served chilled. Lambruscos can range from super sweet to incredibly dry, but I didn't want ours to be sweet. I wanted it to be very approachable for anybody trying it for the first time, but also enjoyable for Lambrusco lovers who understand and know the product. It is truly a quintessential food wine. We say that it is meant to be sipped eight days a week. It works from lunchtime to nightcaps, because it is so drinkable.
The label is eye-catching. Tell us more about the design.
We put out a call for artists and one of the options that came across my desk was a local Edmonton artist named Lee Kreklewetz. Her art is phenomenal. Her pieces are so unique and creative and they really spoke to me. I knew this was the artwork that I wanted on the bottle of Tomato Wheels Lambrusco.
How do you pay it forward now that you’ve seen this success?
Giving back has always been a passion of mine. When I moved to downtown Edmonton for the first time, I wanted to know my community and who I was living with. So once a month, I would make a big pot of chili and give it out to whoever needed it. I'd sling it out of the back of my car and meet the people who live downtown who don't necessarily have the same means as me, and it led to many meaningful conversations. I quickly learned that this wasn’t just for them; it was for me, too. We also launched our Nudes for Nood[le]s calendar, a campaign that collects proceeds for fighting food insecurity while also celebrating body diversity and beauty in all human forms.
What are your non-negotiable luxuries that you need to lead a good life?
Great company, good food and a bottle of Tomato Wheels Lambrusco! But seriously, having the ability to work from inspired action versus feeling obligated to do something, has made my life more authentic. Seeing the tiny joys in life, being grateful and taking a moment to thank the universe has been necessary for me to go with the flow. Freedom and flexibility allow me to travel and go wherever the Lambrusco is. Those things combined allow me to enjoy life!
Capturing the spirit of the Wild West Ride Into Style
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY WALKER FASHION BY MR. DERK
MODELLING AGENGY MODE MODELS INTERNATIONAL MODELS DAVIS MULATRIS & MAXWELL THOMAS
From rugged denim and timeless cowboy boots to intricately detailed bolo ties and classic jeans, our fashion feature captures the essence of the western frontier.
Embrace the allure of the Wild West with Mr. Derk's exclusive menswear collection where every piece tells a story. WWW.MRDERK.COM
White Bastille
Monet T-shirt
Detour
Edwin AKT33
1 YEAR Indigo
13.5oz Rainbow
Selvedge Denim
Black Peregrine Bexley Coat
Blue Replay
Check Button
Down Shirt
AKT33 Dry Indigo 13.5oz Rainbow Selvedge Denim
Left: Replay
Hyperflex Black Denim
Anonym Slub
Crew T-Shirt
Replay Black
Denim Jacket
Right:
Dehen Black
Herringbone Crissman Overshirt
Anonym Slub
Crew T-Shirt
AG 7 Year
Amory Tellis Jeans
Xacus Monkey
Hawaiian Shirt
Drake's Polka
Dot Bandana
AKT33 Dry
Indigo 13.5oz
Rainbow
Selvedge Denim
Lancitto Nubuck
Chelsea Boot
Windsor
Xacus
Doro
Edwin AKT33
1 YEAR Indigo
13.5oz Rainbow
Selvedge Denim
Venteta Soft
Lancitto Nubuck
Chelsea Boot
Camicia Blazer
Denim
Pearl Snap
Western Shirt
Lapel Pin
Touch Tubular Belt
True North Western Chic
Country charm meets urban style
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
What’s hot this month are classic cowboy influences, from denim and leather accents to refined cowboy boots and statement belt buckles, all with a modern twist. Embracing the spirit of the West, Canadian fashionistas are weaving elements of country charm into their ensembles, blending rustic allure with metropolitan chic. As the spotlight turns to the Canadian Country Music Awards on September 14, the stage is set for western fashion to command attention and make a lasting impression with its country-inspired sophistication.
Saddle up, Edmonton, and wrangle yourself some of these defining fashion pieces!
Southwest Print
www.lammles.com
www.simons.ca
Rock & Roll Cowboy
Jacket
Caborca Cleon Ankle Western Boots
The Iconic G-Class
Timeless, capable, and true to its roots
WORDS BY TOM SEDENS
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
There are a few vehicles that have achieved iconic status—iconic in the way that most people would, at the very least, recognize them, even if they couldn’t specify the exact model. For cars, the VW Beetle and the Porsche 911 come to mind, and for SUVs and off-road types of vehicles, the Jeep and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class would be two at the top of the list.
The G-Wagen—short for Geländewagen, which translates to terrain-wagon—has humble roots. Known around the globe as the G-Wagen, its genesis comes from a request by the Shah of Iran in the early 1970s for Daimler-Benz to build a smaller military vehicle capable of going off-road. Since then, the G-Wagen has been used by numerous armies across the world, and in 1979, it was finally offered as a civilian vehicle.
Mercedes has refined the G-Wagen over the years, but a few things have remained constant—the first being its extensive capability. The G-Wagen has retained its staggering off-road competence even as it has moved into the ultra-luxury market. It is a remarkably rugged vehicle, able to traverse the most brutal of terrain and environments. In fact, it is one of the very few civilian vehicles offering three locking differentials.
Another constant is its stubborn, boxy shape. Unyielding in the face of modern trends and barely evolved over the decades, the styling is part of the G-Class’s iconic nature.
Today’s G-Wagen maintains its ageless design and capacity to handle any driving situation, but with a wealth of the manufacturer’s most advanced technology and luxurious touches.
In Canada, buyers can choose from two models, the G 550, which comes with everything a discerning buyer could ever want, and the fire-breathing G 63 AMG, which takes all the G 550 has to offer, and ramps up the performance and luxury to another level.
Both drivetrains combine twin-turbo 4L V8 engines; the G 550 with 416 horsepower and the G 63 with 577 hp, 9-speed transmission and of course, the world-famous 4-wheel drive system.
Inside, the G-Class’s state-of-the-art cabin is all business. From its upright seating position and commanding view of the road to its uncomplicated cockpit, it is everything a driver and passenger need and want without compromising its role. The crisp digital dash and the central screen allow the driver to access and control all of the vehicle’s functions. Materials are the best the industry has to offer. Exquisitely crafted and artfully furnished, the G-Wagen is built almost entirely by hand.
If you want to make your G-Class all your own, an incredibly extensive selection of paint and trim options are offered through Mercedes’ MANUFAKTUR program, allowing for almost limitless personalization.
Iconic design, modern innovations, unsurpassed luxury, and uncompromising capability. This is the legendary G-Class. It moves to its own compass.
WWW.MERCEDES-BENZ.CA
From Pop-up to Hot Spot
Darling puts down permanent roots
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN WALKER
Darling, the popular 40-seat restaurant on Whyte Avenue, sprouted from new parenthood, coupled with the scorched earth of pandemic-related lockdowns. Owner Justin Jones, who had been working front-of-house at Biera, found himself simultaneously out of work at the restaurant and overwhelmed with the newness of parenthood. “We had just become parents, lockdowns were happening, and we couldn’t go anywhere,” Jones says of what he and his husband faced during that time in 2021. “We had travelled a lot in the past and were reliving those memories of good food and wine. We missed it so much and we were going stir crazy. I said to Derrick, ‘Let’s do a pop-up!’ and it took off from there.”
Working at some of Edmonton’s top restaurants had given Justin Jones plenty of on-the-floor experience, while Derrick, a more behind-the-scenes type, took on the budgets and flow-charts. All combined, the duo approached the venture with a well-rounded business tool kit. Held both indoors and out at the Take Care Café, the pop-ups focused on natural wines and seasonal food offerings. After five months, the couple had enough inspiration, experience and solid fan base to take the concept one step further—to that of a full scale restaurant. They secured a spot across the street in a vacant commercial space and began the transformation.
The menu still focuses on creative fare made from seasonal ingredients grown by local, small-scale producers, with chef Tyler Biollo taking over where talented Lindsay James left off.
“Working with the crew at Three Boars and then Ryan Hotchkiss at Bundok, taught me the importance and benefits of cooking with seasonal ingredients,” says Biollo, pointing to a plate of tomatoes topped with Alberta goat cheese and cold-pressed canola oil flavoured with rosemary. “You can see where the sun has hit the tomato in certain parts, and you can taste the difference in a tomato like that when it’s picked at the height of freshness.”
The tomato dish exemplifies how Biollo and sous chef, Josiane Cosette, both NAIT culinary grads, approach the food they serve. “When you work with ingredients like this, you can keep things simple,” Biollo explains. “You don’t need to interfere. You can let the ingredients speak for themselves.”
If ever there was a perfect representation of beef carpaccio, what Biollo offers could be it. A fluffy cloud of grated Piave Vecchio covers ethereal slices of robustly flavoured Alberta beef that yields to minimal chewing effort. Paired with an earthy red wine, it’s a magical combination.
The menu features as many plant-forward dishes as it does protein-focused options, with olives, sourdough bread, salads and pasta appearing alongside fish, pork and Alberta beef. You might want to stop in just for dessert, especially if the chocolate tarte is on offer. It’s a harmonious combination of all the good and sweet things in life: shortbread pastry, chocolate crémeux (like a heavier ganache), caramel and hazelnuts.
The focus on wine continues to be on those made with minimal intervention and without additives. An aromatic orange wine from California called Wonderwerk Big Orange worked wonderfully with cheese, and the Abbia Nova ‘Senza Vandalismi’ Cesanese from Piglio, was a gorgeous partner to a pan-seared steak served with a thick swath of herby persillade.
Don’t get too comfy with the wine list, though; Jones is on a mission to expose customers to as many natural wines as possible. “We offer a new selection starting every Friday, so what you see today won’t be here next week or next month. We like to keep things fresh and interesting.”
Darling is hitting all the right notes—from intriguing drink options to flavourful fare, and an inviting interior that makes you want to stay a while. Grab a seat on the patio while you can. It’s dog friendly, gorgeous and open until the temperatures dip. Bring your pals, bring your kids: the restaurant is child friendly, Instagram ready, and brunch is served on weekends. Darling is the cool, friendly neighbourhood spot you wish your neighbourhood had thought of first.
Find it at 9616 - 82 Avenue, Edmonton.
WWW.DARLINGRESTAURANT.CA
Spotlight: Vine Arts
Raising a glass to success
WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHEBE MELAN
If you want to join the 1300+ liquor stores in Alberta, knowing what it takes to stand out from the crowd is key to survival. Having recently opened a third location, owners Jesse Willis and Jeff Jamieson of Vine Arts have put that key firmly in their pocket.
Before launching Vine Arts in Calgary, Willis worked full time at a local wine retail store. Jamieson, employed in the oil and gas industry, put in one shift a week at the same store to keep his thumb on the pulse of the city’s culinary scene. Their schedules rarely lined up, yet on a rare Sunday, they found themselves working together. “I started telling Jeff my thoughts on training restaurant staff using programs that could teach them the basics of wine,” Willis says. Once they began bouncing ideas off each other, they soon came to the same conclusion that it would be more sustainable if they had their own store. These conversations ignited a fire in both, and owning their own retail outlet quickly became the focus.
Willis and Jamieson’s vision was threefold: to create something beautiful and world class in both appearance and selection, to ensure a comfort level where customers would not be afraid to ask questions, and to be the place where people could learn about wine in a safe and hospitable environment. Their vision became a reality in 2012 when they opened in Victoria Park, Calgary, with a
team of dedicated staff who were as much in love with the wine industry and culture as they were. With success at Victoria Park, they soon expanded to a second Calgary location on vibrant 17 Ave SW.
Their goal was to always expand to Edmonton, but looking for the perfect location proved difficult due to the rules around allowable distance between stores. Willis and Jamieson knew the wine and cocktail scene was strong in the capital city and had many conversations with restaurant owners, buyers, sommeliers and others in the industry. With much perseverance (and after several rejections), they found the perfect spot. In September 2023, they opened their third location at 10961 - 124 street, 11 years after launching the original store in Calgary. Staying true to the style of the first two stores, the Edmonton location features a wall-to-wall painting of a scene from a turn-of-the-century circus, notable amounts of gin and agave-based spirits, and wine categorized by flavour profiles rather than regions. At Vine Arts, the wine you want is the wine you need it to be: a “Bold & Structured” red, or a “Crisp & Refreshing” white, perhaps.
When Willis and Jamieson first opened Vine Arts, their focus was on cocktail spirits like vermouth, amaro, bitters, and other interesting products that weren’t readily available at the time. The intent was to carry several different brands to keep both customer and bartender curiosities piqued. “There was almost no selection of cocktail bitters and vermouth in the market at the time, so we saw an opportunity and started hounding importers on how we could get more of a selection for these types of things,” Willis explains of their approach to keeping things interesting, while keeping customers happy.
Their success at the retail store and a focus on spirits eventually led Willis and Jamieson to open Proof, a cocktail bar, followed by Donna Mac, a restaurant; both of which continue to receive accolades from customers and media far and wide. In 2024, Proof made the Top 10 Best Bars Canada list, something which makes these urbanites very proud.
Hard work and perseverance pay off: with over 10 years in the business world, Willis says he and Jamieson are still learning and listening. ”We just try to watch the market, listen to our customers, see what people are looking for that they can’t get, and then do our best to fill in the gaps, I guess.”
On September 14, Vine Arts will celebrate one year at their Edmonton location on 124 Street. Stop in, say hello, sample something new, and raise a glass to another successful venture.
1000 Women
Funding futures at Norquest College
WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILIE IGGIOTTI
The 1000 Women initiative has been making waves for students at NorQuest College since 2010. What started as a simple effort to help students with bus passes has grown into a powerful movement, raising over $5.5 million to support learners in need.
At the heart of this initiative is a dedicated group of women. Their goal has always been clear: to help NorQuest students overcome the financial barriers that often stand in the way of their education.
Janelle Janis, the current Chair of the 1000 Women Committee, explains that the initiative is about more than just financial aid. “We’re here to support all NorQuest learners, regardless of gender, by offering emergency funding, childcare bursaries, and scholarships, especially in fields like STEM where women are often underrepresented.”
One of the standout aspects of the initiative is the childcare bursary program, which funds NorQuest College's on-campus childcare centre. This service allows parents to focus on their studies while knowing their children are in good hands. As a mother herself, Janis is especially passionate about this part of the initiative. “Childcare is a human right. Being able to offer this service to our students is something we’re incredibly proud of,” she says.
In addition to emergency funding and childcare
support, the 1000 Women initiative is working to get more women into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields through the 1000 Women for STEM campaign. This campaign has already raised $1.5 million towards its $3 million goal, which will fund scholarships for 150 students. These scholarships are crucial in encouraging more women to enter and succeed in these traditionally male-dominated fields.
Inspiring Possibilities, the next big event for the initiative, is happening on September 17. It’s a chance for the community to come together and see firsthand the impact their support has on students' lives. Janis hopes that everyone who attends will leave feeling connected to the cause and inspired to continue supporting it. “We’re not just raising money; we’re investing in a future that’s more inclusive and full of opportunities.”
Even if you can’t make it to the event, there are still plenty of ways to get involved. Janis encourages people to join the movement by becoming monthly donors or committing to the 1000 Women Circle of Success, which involves a $1,000 annual donation. “Whether your contribution is big or small, it all helps us keep breaking down barriers and supporting students.”
Melodies and Masterpieces
The creative world of Laura Bachynski
Laura Bachynski's career in music began early on, sparked by a challenge from her uncle when she was a child in Ontario. He placed a guitar in a room full of kids and declared that whoever learned to play it first could keep it. Laura, determined, took on the challenge and won, kindling the dawn of her lifelong love affair with music.
Growing up, Bachynski also faced some tough challenges. Being born with congenital hip dysplasia, resulted in surgeries which ultimately led to a diagnosis with severe osteoarthritis. Living with this debilitating illness made moving around difficult, but sitting still was also difficult. She began spending more time with her guitar, composing songs and finding solace in music.
Throughout her career, Bachynski has released three albums, each reflecting her diverse musical tastes. Her songs span multiple genres, from folk to country, rock, jazz, and even Cuban rhythms, showcasing her passion for musical exploration. She is currently working on a fourth album, inspired by her experiences with pain, featuring themes of love, faith, and human connection.
One of Bachynski’s most beloved projects is the Front Porch Concert Series, which she and her husband started during the pandemic. The idea came about as a way to keep performing despite the lockdowns. "We wanted to keep playing music, and since we couldn’t gather indoors, we decided to perform outside," Bachynski explains. The concerts, held on the last Sundays of June, July, and August, bring neighbours together to enjoy live music right from her front yard. It’s a simple yet beautiful way to build community and support local artists. "It’s just great to see people come together, enjoy music, and support each other," Laura says. "We love doing these concerts, and it’s even better knowing we’re helping out the artists."
In addition to her music, Bachynski is a talented visual artist, painting beautiful scenes including landscapes, people, automobiles, buildings and most anything that inspires her. She recently wrapped up her first solo art show at Edmonton’s Bay 1 Gallery which featured her exhibit “Ways To Get There,” encapsulating the essence of vintage cars, trucks, bikes and boats. Her artistic endeavours go beyond personal fulfillment. Bachynski is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She donates 80% of the proceeds from her art sales to charities that are close to her heart.
Despite her many achievements, Bachynski is down-to-earth and eager to encourage others. Her advice to aspiring artists is straightforward: “Stick with it, work hard, and you can make a good living,” she says, sharing the wisdom of her brother, a renowned guitarist. She knows the struggles of making a living in the arts but believes in the value of persistence and passion.
Looking to the future, Bachynski wants to keep creating and sharing her art and music, even as she deals with the challenges of arthritis. “Creating makes me happy,” she says. “It helps me forget about what I’m going through.” She encourages everyone to support local artists by buying original art to help keep the creative community thriving.
WWW.LAURABACHYNSKI.COM
Science Meets Nature
How Dr. Mom is changing the world of skincare
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONTAINE LEWIS
Local family physician, Dr. Stephanie Liu, affectionately known as "Dr. Mom," is transforming the way we approach skincare. With a passion for both science based practices as well as natural alternatives, Dr. Liu has carved a unique path in the world of health and wellness. Her career and popular blog Life Of Dr. Mom led her to become a renowned health expert through features with Global Television, CBC, the National Post, and Today's Parent
Dr. Liu’s academic journey took her from Edmonton to Columbia University in New York, where she earned a Masters in Human Nutrition. "I've always been fascinated by the healing power of nature, especially when it’s backed by solid scientific evidence," she shares. This blend of a medical practice and a holistic approach to health would eventually lead her to a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of skincare.
Her quest to find a better solution for eczema, a common but stubborn skin condition, was born out of personal and professional necessity. "As a family doctor in Alberta, I saw so many patients struggling with eczema. The only effective treatment was steroids, which many parents are hesitant to use on their children," Dr. Liu recalls. Frustrated by the lack of safe, effective options, she set out to find an alternative. This journey led her to beta glucan, a type of fibre and the ingredient in oatmeal known for its soothing properties.
At the time, the University of Alberta had developed the technology to extract beta glucan for use as a fibre supplement. However, Dr. Liu remembered the ingredient from the labels of some of her skincare products, primarily the ones developed in Asia. “While oatmeal contains three to five per cent beta glucan, this technology allowed us to extract closer to 23 per cent.”
Dr. Liu began experimenting with beta glucan, extracting it and incorporating it into skincare products. Her first creation was a beta glucan bath treatment, designed to be added to water to soothe the entire body. "I wanted something that could provide relief during bath time, which is often a calming ritual for many families," she explains. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the product's ability to alleviate skin irritation without harsh chemicals or fragrances.
But Dr. Liu didn't stop there. Listening to feedback from her growing community of followers on her blog, she realized that people needed a more convenient, targeted solution. This insight led to the creation of the beta cream, a thick, miracle cream that could be applied directly to problem areas. "Our beta cream is fragrance-free, safe for all ages, and recommended by both doctors and allergists," she proudly notes. This product has quickly become a staple in many households, offering a gentle yet effective option for managing eczema and other skin irritations.
Dr. Liu’s dedication and her innovative spirit have not only earned her the trust of families, but also the respect of the medical community. Her company, ‘By Dr. Mom’, continues to explore new ways to harness the power of natural ingredients with scientific backing, providing safe and effective solutions for everyday health concerns.
In a world where quick fixes often come at the expense of long-term health, Dr. Liu stands as a beacon of thoughtful, evidence-based care with a natural approach. ‘By Dr. Mom’ products are created in Edmonton and available in 400 locations, including online through the company’s website, as well as London Drugs and Amazon.
WWW.BYDRMOM.COM
Naramata, B.C. The luxury of going slow
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Just over a century ago when seances were what folks did for spooky fun and games, a group of socialites congregated in Brighton Beach, a burgeoning community on the eastern shore of southern Okanagan Lake. During the seance, it is said that a Sioux Chief spoke of his beloved wife, Narramattah, to Mrs. Gillespie, the local spiritual medium. The town’s founder, J.M. Robinson, thought it a lovely sounding name, took out a few letters, and bestowed it upon the village, which had originally been called Nine Mile Point before he changed it to East Summerland, first, and then Brighton Beach.
The name stuck and Naramata blossomed into a place for summer fun where people enjoyed concerts, operas, plays and regattas.
PHOTO BY: PRESERVED LIGHT
PHOTO BY: DISCOVER NARAMATA
When Robinson founded the village in 1906, he could not have foreseen what the next 100 years would bring to this quiet, pretty little town. The 3,500 acres he purchased and then sold to farmers who planted fruit orchards, still produce the amazing tree fruits for which the area is known. More recently, the area has received global recognition for its wine production; approximately 50 grape varieties are grown here and used to craft elegant, award-winning wines. In 2019, the Naramata Bench (the wine-making area around Naramata) officially received its sub-Geographical Indication, making it the fourth sub-appellation in the Okanagan Valley, at that time, after Skaha Bench, Okanagan Falls and Golden Mile Bench, near Oliver.
Unlike the cosmopolitan growth to the north in and around Kelowna, Naramata has retained its small-town charm, thanks to the efforts of a determined group of Narmatians committed to maintaining quality of life over rapid growth and corporate invasion. Because of their efforts, Naramata received a Cittaslow designation in 2004. Pronounced chee/tah slow, the word means “slow city” and is part of the Slow Food-inspired Cittaslow organization that began in Italy in 1999. Naramata is only one of four places in Canada to have the designation. Cowichan Bay, B.C., Lac-Mégantic, Q.C., and Wolfville, N.S. are the others.
PHOTO BY: OKANAGRAPHY
PHOTO BY: MOMENTS OF WILD
PHOTO BY: MOMENTS OF WILD
You won’t see any fast food restaurants or large chain stores here, rather, a handful of boutiques make up most of Naramata’s retail offerings. A few restaurants help to feed the tourists and locals alike, and accommodations range from quaint motels to the newly restored Naramata Inn, a Mission-style structure built by Robinson in 1908 and originally called Hotel Naramata. The hotel not only provided rooms for visitors but served as a residence, as well, for Robinson and his family.
Naramata is the place you want to tell everyone about, but it’s also the place you want to keep to yourself for fear of it being overrun. Thankfully, the Cittaslow committee will make sure that Naramata will long remain its delightful, relaxing and charming self.
Bring your friends and leave the chaos behind.
WWW.DISCOVERNARAMATA.COM
PHOTO BY: PRESERVED LIGHT
How to get here: Fly into Penticton Regional Airport. Rent a car and wind your way down Naramata Road through wine country. You’ll get to the village in about 20 minutes. Kelowna International Airport is further north (about 90 kms), but the drive offers spectacular views of the valley and Okanagan Lake.
Let technology be your guide: Download the VoiceMap app and take the Wine Geeks Only: Naramata Bench Terroir Driving Tour. The 40-minute driving tour begins near the marina in Penticton and ends near Naramata. It’s a great way to learn more about this part of Okanagan wine country.
When to go: Most tourist traffic happens in July and August, but those in the know, know that September is the golden month. Go now.
Where to stay: Follow in the footsteps of J.M. Robinson and book a room at the Naramata Inn. There are only 12 rooms and all are immaculately appointed with high-end linens, timeless furnishings, and locally made lavender-scented soaps and bath salts to use in soaker tubs. All rooms have doors to spacious decks where you can soak up the sun, enjoy a glass of wine, embrace the views and grab some moments of solitude.
Where to eat: Just Baked is a tiny, take-out spot with homemade baked goods and outstanding coffee. Grab a table outside and get to know the townsfolk who often congregate here. The Grape Leaf Café serves vegetarian friendly food, Real Things Pizza is a local favourite, and the Naramata Inn offers two types of dining options: The Restaurant, located on the main floor, focuses on fine dining and continental breakfasts
PHOTO BY: PRESERVED LIGHT
of local cheeses, fruits and fresh-baked goods; casual dining, cocktails and live music can be enjoyed downstairs at Eliza, named for Mr. Robinson’s wife.
What to do: Taste it all! Stop in at any of the 40+ wineries and the growing number of cideries, breweries and distilleries, or book a tour with a professional guide. Farm to Glass Wine Tours is an award-winning and highly unique experience hosted by Jess Hopwood, whose former work on luxury jets and yachts, and in wine shops and vineyards make her one very capable, connected and congenial host. Up to four guests can book a trip with Jess and spend the day riding in luxury. Her Tesla Model Y has climate-controlled storage units, meaning any wines purchased will stay at a safe temperature while you go about sipping and savouring. Jess chooses the destinations based on a strict adherence to quality, sustainability and commitment to community. Spend your entire time with Jess on the ground, or the morning tasting wines in vineyards and the afternoon relaxing on the Anam Cara, a 46-foot sailing yacht with Winds of Change Experiences. Trips are customizable: Jess’s goal is to give you the best experience possible.
Stroll, visit the museum, spend time at the public beaches, rent a bike at Freedom Bike Shop and explore the townsite or head to the Kettle Valley Trail and bike your way through vineyards, orchards and old railway tunnels. Sun n’ Sup has paddleboards to rent and they also offer group lessons. Hit up the farmers market on Wednesday nights. Go for ice cream at the General Store, and pick up some Naramata-made cider, wine and beer while you’re at it.
Old
World Beauty, Modern Technology
Custom limestone features by Tuscan Stoneworx
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Known for its impeccable craftsmanship and innovative approach to creating limestone features, Tuscan Stoneworx transforms homes and spaces with a unique blend of artistry and technology. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, this Edmonton company has carved out a niche in the world of interior design and home building, offering products that exude both beauty and practicality.
The journey of Tuscan Stoneworx began with a simple yet profound vision: to bring the timeless elegance of limestone into modern homes without the heavy lifting. The company’s founder, Jan Herwig, inspired by the classic architecture of his hometown in Germany, sought to replicate the grandeur of limestone features while overcoming the challenges of weight and installation. His solution was as ingenious as it was effective. By using styrofoam cut to precise moulds by a computerized machine, then covering these moulds in a crushed limestone material sourced from the USA, the company creates stunning stone products that are up to 70 per cent lighter than traditional limestone. "Our process allows us to offer the same hardness, impermeability, and aesthetic appeal of limestone, but with much easier installation and lower shipping costs," explains Director of Sales and Service, Yasmin Rizvi.
Tuscan Stoneworx creates products from a place where history and innovation coexist: fireplace surrounds that evoke the warmth and charm of a bygone era, fluted wall panels that add a touch of sophistication, and hood fans that serve as striking focal points. The possibilities are endless. "We pride ourselves on being able to bring any client's vision to life," says Rizvi. "Whether it's a classic, ornate design or a sleek, modern look, we can create it. We are excited to see designers stepping out of their comfort zones and giving us projects that wouldn’t normally be on trend."
Tuscan Stoneworx is not just about creating beautiful interiors; they also push the boundaries of exterior design. Recognizing a resurgence in traditional trends and ornate designs, the company is eager to expand its offerings to include more exterior features. "We believe that the exterior of a home should be just as beautiful and inviting as the interior," shares another team member. "Our lightweight limestone products are perfect for adding that extra flair to exterior facades. Not only does our product create a unique design element, but it also adds an extra source of insulation—something we can always use in our climate here."
The company has plans to expand the shop and add a showroom. With continued growth and evolution, though, the team’s passion for creating beautiful, functional, and timeless limestone features remains front and center. Tuscan Stoneworx builds new structures but with old world charm, leaving a lasting impression on the landscape of Edmonton, one project at a time.
