There’s no place like Steveston in springtime; the streets bustle with locals and visitors embracing the warmer weather. In early April, crowds gathered at Garry Point for the Cherry Blossom Festival, capturing selfies beneath canopies of pink petals. Meanwhile, Wong’s Nursery has reopened for the season, offering a beautiful selection of plants and shrubs to enhance your garden.
Fisherman’s Wharf remains a must-visit destination for fresh seafood enthusiasts, with local fishing boats selling their daily catch. Steveston’s charming shops, diverse restaurants, and picturesque waterfront continue to draw travellers and day-trippers alike.
This spring, we welcome tour operators participating in the Tourism Neighbourhood Challenge, exploring the village from April 19 to May 31.
As May approaches, we look forward to Mother’s Day celebrations and the annual plant sale at London Heritage Farm. Due to the construction of the new community centre, the Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market has relocated to Garry Point Park and will open on May 11.
Since 2011, Steveston Village Maternity has been a go-to destination for chic maternity wear, baby essentials, and stylish fashion for the entire family. Founders Beth and Ben Fairchild have carefully curated a selection of Canadian brands while evolving to meet their customers’ needs.
Steveston and ice cream go hand in hand! Sally’s Homemade Ice Cream brings handcrafted, small-batch flavours to the village; it’s a must-visit for ice cream lovers. Opened by longtime resident Sally Koldenhof in November 2024, this shop has quickly become a favourite. Read more about Sally’s journey inside.
Mark your calendars for the Steveston Spot Prawn & Seafood Celebration, running midMay to June 18. This event features freshoff-the-boat seafood sales, live cooking demonstrations, family-friendly activities, and the highly anticipated Dine About, a citywide restaurant promotion showcasing delicious seafood dishes.
Sadly, after 77 years, The Buck & Ear Pub is closing its doors this spring. A beloved gathering place, the space will be transformed into boutique hotel suites, marking the end of an era. We also said goodbye to Daruma Convenience Store. Meanwhile, we welcome Vogue Café, which has opened in the former Five Roads Brewing Co. location.
Spring is the perfect season to explore our historic seaside village, take in the scenic views, savour the flavours of our outstanding restaurants, and enjoy the warm hospitality of residents and business owners. It’s no wonder Steveston steals people’s hearts.
Carolynne Palla
Carolynne Palla Owner/Publisher
Sandra Steier Photographer/Stylist
Sarah Gordon Writer/Editor
Tara Orr Social Media
Spice Up Your Spring!
Order any main course and enjoy a FREE APPETIZER from our curated selection of five mouth-watering options—on us! Simply spend a minimum of $50 before tax to qualify. Choose from our crispy samosas, flavour-packed pakoras, or savoury tandoori bites, and more! Offer valid until May 31, 2025, Monday–Thursday. Dine-in only. Mention this ad to redeem.
STEVESTON VILLAGE MATERNITY: Your Go-To Boutique for Stylish Attire
Story by Sarah Gordon Photos by Sandra Steier & Carolynne Palla
Beth and Ben Fairchild had lived in Steveston for a couple of years when they found out they were expecting their first baby. Anyone who has searched for professional maternity clothing knows how challenging it can be. Beth faced this problem; she sought original and stylish attire, so she and Ben dreamt up Steveston Village Maternity. In 2011, their vision became reality when they opened their Moncton Street shop.
“It’s incredible how quickly time passes. It seems like yesterday that we had our babies and opened our doors to the community. Now our children and their friends visit the shop on their own. They come to pick out their shoes, backpacks and water bottles for back to school,” says Beth.
Ben shares, “It has been so fun watching our children grow up, although I miss the days when all they wanted was to play at the park! Now, we try to be in the shop as much as possible but take every opportunity to attend our kids’ sporting events.”
Beth continues to balance her role as an elementary school teacher and the shop’s primary buyer. Ben says, “She does an incredible job of finding great styles and products.” Meanwhile, Ben is in the store most days with their three dedicated employees. He ensures that all products are listed online and that inventory is up to date, as well as managing the accounting.
The shop is known for its excellent selection of maternity items and infant and child necessities.
Customers can browse clothing and gear for maternity, babies and young children with the addition of several brands and products for teens and adults. Vessi shoes, Blundstone boots, and an expanded selection of women's fashions are some new additions.
They proudly carry Canadian brands, such as Herschel Supply Co., Lou Lou Lollipop, Petit Lem, Souris Mini, Miles the Label, Deux Par Deux, Beba Bean, and Hatley. Footwear favourites like Native Shoes, Vessi, and Padraig Cottage remain staples.
“We introduce new brands almost weekly to meet our customers’ evolving needs,” Ben says. The store has something for everyone, from baby essentials like blankets, books, and bottles to stylish fashion pieces for women.
The staff love helping customers, from creating baby registries to finding the perfect gift for any occasion, and as always, whenever you buy a gift, the staff will happily wrap it for free.
“This is a fun time of year when spring and summer clothing arrives.”
“People get excited about spending time outside, and our new arrivals reflect this. We have added more swimwear this year as we anticipate warm weather.” Beth adds, “There’s
nothing better than watching people get excited about sunshine and new styles!”
Steveston Village Maternity has expanded to offer an online shop that mirrors the in-store collection.
“Our ability to showcase our products on our website, social media, and in-store is essential in communicating with our customers. Having the chance to sell across the country is a unique opportunity for us, and we appreciate the chance to help people no matter where they are,” says Ben.
The owners make it a priority to give back to their community.
The store regularly donates to local schools, charities, and organizations, reinforcing their commitment to the families who have supported them for over a decade. “Children are the heart of our business, and we want to do our part to help the community thrive.”
Ben and Beth agree that one of the most rewarding aspects of running Steveston Village Maternity has been witnessing generations of customers walk through their doors. Seeing three generations come into the shop together is a testament to their store’s lasting impact on the community.
They say, “We’re incredibly fortunate to have loyal clients who have been with us since the beginning. Even those who have moved away continue to shop with us online.”
When asked what he loves most about Steveston, Ben replies: “Nothing beats a warm summer day with the hustle and bustle of the village or the chance to walk along our beautiful waterfront. I believe the shop owners are an integral part of our community, and they love to support each other and care about making this place special. We proudly promote our local businesses when out-of-towners visit us!”
They note that Steveston has been injected with fresh energy as many new restaurants have opened during their years in business. The Post Office Museum, Steveston Tram and Gulf of Georgia Cannery remain anchors, while the new community centre and revitalized playground promise to bring even more life to the neighbourhood.
“As Steveston Village Maternity continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains the same—our dedication to providing high-quality products, excellent customer service, and a warm, welcoming space for families. To our loyal customers, we extend our appreciation.
We thank you for supporting us through the many ups and downs of the past 14 years. We are nothing without our Steveston Village Maternity family.”
Steveston Village Maternity 110-3911 Moncton Street Richmond BC, V7E 3A7
Phone 778-297-7379
www.svmaternity.com
creations to the community.
As the sole owner of Steveston’s newest ice cream shop, Sally is grateful for the unwavering support of her family and friends. A longtime Steveston resident, she lives in the community with her husband and three teenage children. Before starting her business, Sally worked as an education assistant for the Richmond School District, supporting high school students with diverse needs. She later put her career on hold to focus on raising her children.
Sally began making custom sugar cookies as a creative outlet during this time. This hobby soon blossomed into Custom Cookies by Sally, a successful home-based business she ran for a decade.
batches. She started with 16 flavours and plans to introduce new ones each month until she reaches 24—the full capacity of her display freezer.
Steveston already has several great gelato options, so she focused on ice cream. Her ingredients include locally sourced milk, cream, and sugar and imported Italian ingredients to create rich, authentic flavours.
Some classic flavours will always be available, including chocolate, strawberry, French vanilla, cookies and cream, espresso salted caramel, bubblegum and cotton candy. “Our bestsellers so far have been Ferrero Rocher and raspberry cheesecake, along with our non-dairy options, sour lemon and mango," Sally shares.
What is her personal favourite? Mint chocolate. The newest addition to the lineup is the smooth, creamy, and sweet lemon meringue.
Sorbet lovers, stay tuned! More non-dairy sorbets will be arriving in the summer.
Sally says, “If you come into the shop, we are happy to give you samples to ensure you are happy with your choice. You can purchase a kid’s, single or double scoop. If you are having trouble narrowing down the choices, you can get a flight, which is a sampler of three or four different flavours.”
Ice cream comes in cups and regular cones, or you can upgrade to a waffle cone or Sally’s newly introduced fancydipped cones. The top of the waffle cones is dipped in chocolate and rolled with sprinkles, nuts or other candies. Gluten-free cones are available upon request.
The store has a freezer stocked with pints of ice cream. Sally mentions, “This was so helpful during the winter when it was too cold for a cone. Many of our customers have purchased pints to enjoy at home or to take to a dinner party as a hostess gift.”
Looking for the perfect gift for an ice cream lover? Treat them to a gift card from $10 to $100.
Additionally, Sally welcomes suggestions for new flavours. She keeps a list of customer requests and regularly introduces fresh creations. Who knows, your favourite flavour could be featured on the menu!
Sally believes in making every customer feel welcome by offering samples, helping customers pick their perfect scoop and listening to their suggestions. “I want everyone to be happy on a Sally’s ice cream day!” she says enthusiastically.
While she operates the shop solo most days, family members lend a hand when the sun is shining. Her children will join the team this summer, and she plans to hire additional seasonal help during the busy season.
Reflecting on her journey, Sally shares, “These last five months have been an extremely fulfilling time—I am so happy! When you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. Opening in the winter wasn’t ideal, but it turned out to be a blessing. It gave me time to learn, grow, and connect with my customers before the summer rush.”
The positive feedback and glowing Google reviews fuel her passion. She treasures the connections she has made with regulars who stop by for a scoop and a chat and the bonus of viewing gorgeous sunsets from her shop.
In a neighbourhood filled with choices, Sally is grateful for each customer who walks through the door. “I recognize that there are many options in the area, and I am always thankful when customers choose Sally’s.”
With her dedication to quality, community, and customer happiness, it’s clear that Sally’s Homemade Ice Cream is a sweet addition to Steveston that’s here to stay.
Sally's Homemade Ice Cream 120-12240 Second Avenue Richmond, BC V7E 3L8
Phone 604-300-2217
Instagram: sallys_homemade_icecream
STROKES RENOVATIONS
EXPERTISE FROM START TO FINISH
Our Services About Us
• Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling – Our Specialty
• Custom Cabinetry & Built-Ins – Manufactured in Our Own Cabinet Shop
Finish Carpentry & Fine Woodwork
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• Interior & Exterior Fine Painting
•
• Project Management, Design & Planning Services
At Strokes Renovations, we bring precision, craftsmanship, and efficiency to every project. Our team of skilled artisans and renovation experts ensures seamless transformations with minimal disruption, delivering exceptional results on time and within budget.
With years of experience handling projects of all sizes, we take pride in turning visions into reality through expert design, quality materials, and meticulous attention to detail.
Help Shape the Future of a National Historic Site
The Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society is seeking a board member to help sustain and grow one of Canada’s most significant historic sites – the Gulf of Georgia National Historic Site. This is an opportunity to contribute to a nationally recognized institution, supported by Parks Canada.
Located in the heart of Steveston, BC, on the unceded territories of the Musqueam and Hənqəminəm speaking people, the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site is a symbol of Canada’s west coast fishing heritage. The Society is committed to ensuring its preservation and continued relevance for future generations.
The Opportunity
We are looking for a Board Members, including those with an interest in fundraising and development, to help govern the Society and to enhance the Society’s financial sustainability. The Society has a long-term goal of expanding its capacity in development and fundraising This volunteer opportunity is an important step in that direction, providing an opportunity to shape and strengthen the Society’s development efforts.
Qualifications
• Some board experience is an asset but not required
• Ability to think strategically about maximizing results with limited bandwidth
• Strong relationship-building and communication skills
• Familiarity with grants, donor relations, and event-based fundraising
What This Role Offers
A meaningful opportunity to support heritage and cultural preservation. Experience in board governance and strategic fundraising for a non-profit organization. Engagement with a network of professionals in the cultural, heritage, and non-profit sectors. The chance to contribute to a Parks Canada-supported National Historic Site with strong community and government ties. The Gulf of Georgia Cannery Society is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. We encourage applications from individuals belonging to equity-deserving groups and will provide accommodations upon request. Learn more about this role
https://gulfofgeorgiacannery.org/about/careers/
POP-UP ART SHOWS
3811 Moncton Street
Steveston Village
www.historicsteveston.ca
@historic.steveston
Steveston Historical Society
The highly successful Pop-Up Art Shows continue to showcase the work of talented local artists. Featured artists change monthly, and a portion of sales supports Steveston Historical Society programs and events. Discover your new favorite art piece while supporting local talent!
April: Susan Viccars and Sali Rogers & Donna Gregory Wood
May: Cherry Chen and Deborah Boyd
June: Roxane Tanner and Betsy Randel
STEVESTON VINTAGE FAIR
The Steveston Vintage Fair is returning this summer to Town Square Park, next to the Steveston Museum and Post Office with even more vendors!
Dates: Sundays, 10am-4pm, July 6, 13, 20 and August 10 & 17.
STEVESTON ALIVE! - WALKING TOUR VIGNETTES
Join us this July and August for the return of our historical walking tours! Step back in time to 1917 and experience life in Steveston’s early days through five captivating historical plays—performed as you stroll through Steveston Village.
When: Saturdays, July 5, 12, 19, 26 and August 9 & 16.
Time: 1:00pm and 3:00pm FOLLOW
STEVESTON VILLAGE POST OFFICE
Full-service post office open 7 days a week. Serving as a vital hub in our community. Your support of this Post Office, becoming a member of Steveston Historical Society, or sponsoring an upcoming event greatly contributes to our ability to provide programs and events that benefit our community.
For complete information on all events and more, please visit: www.historicsteveston.ca
ROTARY HELPS ITS OWN
Submitted by Kim Evans
Service clubs thrive across the globe. When my late husband Jack and I travelled to India in 2004, we were delighted to see a roadside Rotary sign, proudly announcing that a local school was financed and supported by Rotary. It was a touching reminder that service transcends borders.
Jack Evans understood the importance of giving back from a young age—a value instilled in him by his maternal grandmother.
One of Jack’s favourite sayings was, “Do as you would be did by,” a sentiment that closely aligns with Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self.
As a young man in Brantford, Ontario, Jack joined the Lions Club. When he later moved to British Columbia, he lived in Lions Bay and became a member of the Tiddlycove Lions Club. This was around the time I met Jack and witnessed firsthand his dedication and joy in the camaraderie of service.
In 1993, we relocated to Richmond/Steveston. By 2001, Jack and his close friend Bob Butterworth were drawn to the vibrant energy of the Steveston Rotary Club. Jack returned from one of his early meetings and exclaimed, “I love this Rotary club! They have women members, and they get us organized in the best possible way!” He also added—with typical Jack flair—that the food was excellent.
Jack thrived on the projects the club took on. He participated in Wine & Seafood fundraisers at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, the Canada Day Parade (especially enjoying the Rotary Pirate Ship), the pancake breakfasts, and refereeing the Jimmy Ng Road Hockey Tournament—an event honouring the late Richmond RCMP officer. I remember one year in particular: it was about 25°C, and only one other member was available to referee. In his late 60s, Jack ran up and down that hot asphalt for five hours without a single complaint. He came
home sunburnt, exhausted—and utterly proud to represent Rotary at the heart of Steveston Village.
Over the years, Jack served as the club’s membership representative and eventually took on the role of president.
Even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Jack continued to volunteer wherever possible. His generosity never wavered. I sometimes had to jokingly ask him to sit on his hands and let others step up—but that simply wasn’t Jack’s way. As it became clear he was struggling to fully participate, I discreetly informed a few members about his early-onset dementia and asked if they could quietly “shadow” him during projects. The club stepped up with grace and compassion, ensuring Jack remained an active and valued part of the team.
Jack was also a serious athlete, competing at a high level in Senior Men’s Slo-Pitch. He proudly represented Canada at the Huntsman Senior Games in St. George, Utah, earning two bronze medals, one silver, and a gold. He was passionate about sports—especially baseball, slo-pitch, football, basketball, and golf.
As his condition progressed, I reached out to the club with seven pairs of tickets to Vancouver Canadians games at Nat Bailey Stadium. I asked if members could take turns picking him up, enjoying the game with him, and bringing him safely home.
Rotary helped its own—and for that, I will always be grateful.
SHRED EVENT
You are supporting our:
• Local Food Security Programs:
o Seniors
o Students
o Christmas food hampers for families in need
• BC Wildfire Relief
• Ukraine Relief
• McMath Student Interact Club
• “WRITE TO READ” - Building First Nations Libraries around BC
SATURDAY MAY 10, 2025 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
McMath Secondary School 4251 Garry Street, Steveston
It’s time to securely recycle all that unwanted paperwork laying around your house or business!
Quick and easy drive-through service. BY DONATION.
Cash & card accepted.
Aloha Hawaiian Grill 110-3900 Bayview St 604-370-3033 alohahawaiiangrill.ca
Anar Persian Grill 12051 Third Ave 778-834-1707 anargrill.com
B & P Ice Cream & Coffee 100-12220 Second Ave 604-325-9837
Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine 4100 Bayview St 778-839-5711 baanlao.ca
Best Bite Indian Cuisine 10-3891 Chatham St 604-370-4949 bestbiteindiancuisine.ca
Blenz Coffee 105-3900 Bayview St 604-272-0777 blenz.com
Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant (ad p. 3) 140-3866 Bayview St 604-275-7811 bluecanoerestaurant.com
Steveston Rotary Club (ad p. 34-35) stevestonrotary.org
ATTRACTIONS
London Farm (ad p. 31) 6511 Dyke Rd 604-271-5220 londonfarm.ca
Steveston Tram 4011 Moncton St 604-238-8081 richmond.ca/stevestontram
Steveston Museum & Post Office (ad p. 28) 3811 Moncton St 604-271-6868 Post Office 604-238-8026 Museum historicsteveston.ca
Steveston United Church 3720 Broadway St 604-277-0508 stevestonunitedchurch.ca
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Adult Day Centre 5411 Moncton St successbc.ca
Steveston Seabreeze Adventures 12551 No 1 Rd 604-272-7200 seabreezeadventures.ca
Steveston Water Taxi 604-720-0982 stevestonwatertaxi.com
Vancouver Whale Watch 210-12240 Second Ave 604-274-9565 vancouverwhalewatch.com
DIRECTORY - Advertisers with no storefront in Steveston
Ana's Care & Home Support
(ad p. 31)
604-242-2190 anascare.ca
Bryan & Tracy Johnstone
Riverside Mortgage Group (ad p. 22)
604-274-9000 riversidemortgage.ca
Dexter Realty (ad back cover)
604-263-1144 dexterrealty.com
Hickory Dickory Decks
(ad p. 13)
778-802-9756 decks.ca
- June 15, 2025
Robyn McLean
Origin Mortgages (ad p. 12) 778-997-5852 mortgagesbyrobyn.com
Sandra Steier Photography & Pop Up Portraits (ad p. 33) 778-839-8355 sandrasteier.com popupportraits.ca
Strokes Renovations (ad p. 23) 604-617-0113 strokesrenovations.com
Tourism Richmond (ad p. 11) 604-821-5474 tourismrichmond.com
Advertising Rates
Deadline for next issue MAY 21
A Guide to Local Shopping and Events
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April 2025
Apr 18 Good Friday
Apr 18-20
Apr 19
Apr 21
Apr 28
Easter at the Cannery
Tourism Neighbourhood Challenge (ends May 31)
Easter Monday
National Day of Mourning
May 2025
May 10-11 Plant Sale at London Farm (p. 31)
May 11
May 11
May 11 & 25
May 14
Mother's Day
Rotary Club Shred Event at McMath Secondary School (p. 35)
May 21 Advertising deadline for Steveston Insider - June 15 issue (p. 46)
June 2025
Jun 1 & 15
June 7-8
Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market (p. 47)
Doors Open Richmond
June 8 Pizza Factory 10 Year Celebration (p. 17)
June 15
Father's Day
June 21 O'Hare's Winefest at Gulf of Georgia Cannery (p. 18)
2025 Market
SUNDAYS 10:30AM – 3:30PM
May 11 & 25
June 1 & 15
July 13 & 27
August 17 & 31
September 14 & 28
For over 40 years, Dexter Realty has been locally owned and strongly independent serving Metro Vancouver in selling residential and commercial real estate and now helping manage properties. With committed ties to communities like Steveston, supporting local is more important than ever! Reach out to us if we can help, and contact Mike, Kevin or Cathie. Support local!
