Puca’s Pack: Animal Academy

I met Xicalli, owner of Puca’s Pack, animal academy and rescue society, in August when I was dog sitting my fur nephew, Osric. He was the adorable boxer you read about in my last blog. I brought him to the dog park at Harbourside Seawall in North Vancouver and Xicalli asked me if I had an extra poop bag because the park’s dispenser had run out. We struck up a conversation and followed each other on Instagram.

And it was that day that I offered to feature Puca’s Pack because I love supporting local small businesses, especially ones that are non-profit and help others. I also wanted to help Xicalli spread the word that there are animals that need your help, your love and a home.

M: When did you open Puca’s Pack?

X: I opened Puca’s Pack almost four years ago when I took in my first rescue dogs in December of 2019 and became an official not-for-profit rescue in January of 2020.

M: What was your inspiration?

X: I rescued the first two dogs, Stella and Lodden from a property in Prince George. Unfortunately, their owner was going to have them euthanized because they were too much to handle. Both dogs struggled with aggression. I struggled to train them for a year before finding my savior/mentor.

And in the first year of having them, I reached out to countless trainers, but no one was willing to help me. I had dogs with bite histories and were too large (120+ lbs) for most trainers to work with. I eventually found Dean Audet, the owner of The Great Canadian Dog Academy in Kamloops.

Puca’s Pack Behaviour Modification Specialist

I immediately booked myself for a three month intensive training program. I lived in Kamloops getting daily hands-on experience with Dog Psychology Training, Service Dog Training, Hunting Training, Scent Work and Rehabilitation. After I completed the program, I received a Behaviour Modification Specialist certificate and immediately picked up my first seven rescue dogs from Our Last Hope Animal Rescue, and I’ve never looked back.

“I’ve been an avid animal lover, my entire life.”

M: Where did the name of your business come from? Was Puca the name of one of your dogs?

X: When I started my rescue, I wanted to have a fun name, unfortunately, all the clever punny names I came up with were taken. Puca (pronounced poo-ka) is my middle name and it means Shapeshifter which felt quite fitting for a pack of misfits needing rehabilitation.

M: How long have you been working with dogs?

X: I’ve been an avid animal lover, my entire life. Professionally, I’ve only been working with dogs since September of 2019.

Dog Academy PUca's Pack — Osric and one of Puca’s Pack’s dogs playing at Harbourside Seawall

M: What do you like most about your business?

X: It’s challenging, it’s rewarding, it’s everything in between. Every day I learn something new about myself. The moment I found animal rescue, was the moment I found myself. Being able to rehabilitate an animal and find a loving home, or find the path of least resistance within its own home, is one of the most heartwarming experiences in the world.

And my passion has always been to help others, whether they have 2 feet or 4 feet. Working with animals has taught me more about myself than any other life experiences I’ve had. It’s my life’s mission to help animals and people find peace on this earth.

M: What is the most challenging part of your dog academy?

X: Training their owners.

New Dog Parent Do’s and Don’ts from Puca’s Pack

M: What advice would you give to new dog parents? (Some top do’s and don’ts)

X: Structure, structure, structure. Owning a dog is a privilege, especially if you have one that has challenges, as it will teach you about yourself. The biggest problem I see in owners is not giving their dogs rules and boundaries. They need to stay in a balanced state of mind. Be confident in your training abilities, set rules, boundaries, nurture the calm, and be patient.

Foster Parent Program

M: You have a foster parent program for your rescues. What is involved? How can someone become a foster parent to a pup?

X: It’s very simple, if you see one of our dogs that you are interested in fostering, or would like to foster in the future, all you need to do is reach out. You can contact us via text, email, or by filling out a foster application on our website. We will then schedule a call, or meet in person, to determine which dog is most suited for you.

When we find an appropriate foster dog for you, we will then go through basic dog psychology and training techniques for when the dog first enters your home. We will go over do’s and don’ts, and we will be there every step of the way.

M: How can someone adopt a pet? How long does it take? How much does it cost?

X: Cost of adoption vary based upon age. Our costs can all be found on our website at the bottom of our adoptable‘s page. We pay for their collars, leashes, food, vaccinations, spays/neuters, and any other medical care that comes with the dog. Some dogs have extreme transportation costs before getting into our care, and our adoption fee helps us stay in business by covering a portion of those costs.

Adopting a Dog is Simple

If you see a dog on our page that you feel is an appropriate match for you, you can text, call, email us or fill out an application on our website. Adopting a dog is actually quite simple. We will schedule a phone call to go over your application, and figure out whether you and the dog will be a good match.

After we’ve approved your application, we will proceed with a meet and greet, some training, and you can take your new family member home. Puca’s Pack will be there to support you through the transition period of bringing a dog into your home. If you don’t see your dream pup, don’t fret! You can always fill out an application even if there is no current dog right for you. We can leave your application open and contact you when the right dog comes along.

Fundraisers and Donations Only Sources of Funding

M: Puca’s Pack is a non-profit organization. Are you able to get any government grants or funding? Is there anything the community can do to help?

X: Currently, fundraisers and donations are our only sources of funding. I started this rescue four years ago, and we paid the majority of our costs out of pocket. We have looked into government grants but have struggled to get any funding as they cater to charities, not not-for-profit.

Puca’s Pack provides countless services including pet sitting, boarding, dog walking, and training, all the revenue from these services go directly to our rescue. None of our staff or volunteers are paid. We provide all services out of the goodness of our hearts to help this rescue stay afloat.

If you would like to find out more information please follow them on their Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or their website. And if you would like to adopt a dog, foster one, or make a donation you can reach out to them call/text Xicalli (pronounced Sh-kay-lee) at (778) 918-5991.

June 22, 2023June 22, 2023

Queen’s Academy of The Arts – Small Business Feature

Queen’s Academy of the Arts is a local small business that offers musical theatre programs for children between the ages of 4 to 12 online and in person in Burnaby and Coquitlam. There are after school classes, summer camps and music lessons (voice, guitar and piano) all available on a sliding scale.

I first met Queen at a Capilano Students’ Union (CSU) event at Capilano University. She is a Musical Theatre Diploma graduate, currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the university and the founder and instructor of Queen’s Academy of The Arts.

M: When did you open your business?

Q: I began offering free musical theatre classes in 2013 and registered as a business; Queen’s Academy of The Arts in 2020.

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

Q: I started teaching classes to kids as a passion project and I discovered that teaching and running a business could be a future career. It combines what I love; teaching and working with kids, and the performing arts.

Queen's Academy Fall 2019 Musical Theatre Class — Queen’s Academy Fall 2019 Musical Theatre Class

Queen’s Academy was born

M: What was your inspiration for your business?

Q: Since I was little, I’ve loved to perform. My mom put me in classes, but I knew they were too expensive for us, so I withdrew. Only, that didn’t stop me, instead it gave me the inspiration and drive to run my own business.

M: When did you start teaching children?

Q: At age 12, I began offering free musical theatre classes to feed my passion for the arts. And eight years later launched my business. I believe all kids deserve the opportunity to enrich their lives through the arts. But I know some families face difficulties or financial barriers. This is why I have made my program more affordable than competitors and I have also created an inclusive sponsorship program to make classes more accessible.

Queen's Academy Spring 2019 Musical Theatre Show — Queen’s Academy Spring 2019 Musical Theatre Show

Accessible Musical Theatre Programs

M: Did you grow up in Vancouver?

Q: I have lived in the Lower Mainland and Burnaby since I was a kid! It is my passion to bring families together through Queen’s Academy and make performing arts accessible to create connection and community.

M: Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

Q: I began running my business teaching my children’s programs while pursuing a Musical Theatre Diploma and Bachelors of Arts Degree at Capilano University. Pursuing an education in the field that my company specializes in has helped me obtain the skills to feel confident in the field. I would advise you to do what will lead you to the most success.

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own business be?

Q: As long as you are passionate and determined anything is possible!

If you would like to know more about Queen’s Academy of the Arts and their musical theatre programs, voice and music lessons, please visit their website and follow their Instagram.

June 4, 2023June 5, 2023

5 Best North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Sansho Sushi and Japanese Dining Chirashi

I have loved sushi since I first tried it when I was seven years old. Today, I am revealing my top 5 favourite North Vancouver sushi restaurants. Mama Izumi, my foodie cohort took me to my first sushi restaurant, Aki in the historical Japan Town. Otherwise known as Paueru Gai, it is where the Annual Powell Street Festival is held. Back then, my favourite was tuna. It still is, but my taste buds are more adventurous and my favourites now include Uni (sea urchin).

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Number 5 – Sushi 5

Starting with number five, Sushi 5 is located in Lynn Valley Centre, close to Highway 1 and Central Lonsdale. It is easy to get to, whether you are living on the North Shore or in Metro Vancouver. They are one of my favourite sushi restaurants because they have yummy Mix and Match combos that are reasonably priced and include miso soup (soup is not shown in the photo).

Sushi 5 North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant — Sushi 5 Mix and Match Lunch Specials

Number 4 – Sushi Kumo

Sushi Kumo is conveniently located at 180 East 2nd Street. It is in Lower Lonsdale, a few blocks up from the Quay and the seabus station. Little known fact, when I was in high school, my first job was as a dishwasher at this location–it was a different Japanese sushi restaurant called Manyo. Mama and I have been to Kumo twice and both times we enjoyed their Sushi & Sashimi and Sushi Boxes and also received wonderful customer service from Candy.

Kumo Sushi Japanese Restaurant — Kumo Sushi far photo Sushi & Sashimi Box and near photo Sushi Box

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Number 3 – Sansho Sushi & Japanese Dining

I have been a long time customer at Sansho. It was first introduced to me by Mama, my foodie mentor. This North Vancouver sushi restaurant is located at 707 Queensbury Avenue kitty corner from S’wich Cafe. Our favourites are their Makunouchi Bento (shown below) and Chirashi Sushi (featured photo above my blog).

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant Sansho — Sansho Makunouchi Bento

Number 2 – Hamaei Japanese Restaurant

Hamaei is one of my favourite sushi restaurants because they serve an amazing lunch special. It includes miso soup and a little bit of everything we love about bentos! They are located at 1601 Westview Drive at Westview Shopping Centre which is right above Highway 1 and close to Delbrook Community Recreation Centre.

Hamaei North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant — Hamaei Lunch Special

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants 1 – Momji Japanese Cuisine

The number one best North Vancouver Sushi Restaurant is Momji. It is located in the Blueridge Area at 3720 Mount Seymour Parkway. They offer authentic Japanese cuisine (one of the last restaurants on the North Shore to do so). A former colleague introduced me to them and I loved it! My stomach was ready to burst after our meal. Their dishes were over flowing with umami and I ate too much because of it. Mama and I ordered ika karage (Japanese calamari), miso soup, katsu curry and agedashi tofu. A wonderful meal and restaurant that we enjoyed immensely and look forward to going back.

North Vancouver Sushi Restaurants Momji Japanese Cuisine — Momji Japanese Cuisine’s Ika Karage

All photos are my own and I relished every moment of taking them, but especially when I was able to devour the dishes! Please ask for permission to use them or credit me in your publication. If you enjoyed this article, share it!

May 28, 2023May 28, 2023

North Vancouver’s Bobzaa Dessert Cafe & Bistro

Bobzaa Dessert Cafe & Bistro Manager Vash Vashist

Family Owned and Operated Restaurant

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Bobzaa manager, Vash Vashist and learning more about this wonderful addition to Central Lonsdale in North Vancouver.

M: Bobzaa is a family owned business. What was the inspiration for the restaurant?

V: We have all worked in the restaurant industry in the last few years. One of my family members has been a chef for the past seven years, I have been a restaurant manager at different restaurants and have the front of house experience and my other family member has more of the fast food experience so we combined our skills and made it our goal to open Bobzaa.

Bobzaa Butter Chicken and Grilled Chicken Bowl Lunch Special

M: How did you decide on the name for Bobzaa? What does it mean?

V: Initially, we just wanted to open a small bubble tea and pizza place. The name was decided before the location. Then we found this location, but it is pretty big for just bubble tea and pizza so we came up with other menu items as well.

Bobzaa Bubbletea — Bobzaa’s Mango Slushy Bubbletea

The name Bobzaa is a combination of bubble tea and pizza.

M: Who in your family came up with the concept of a dessert cafe with bubble tea, Indian cuisine and brunch favourites? It’s so original.

V: It was a collaboration.

M: When did you open the doors to Bobzaa Dessert Cafe and Bistro?

V: We opened the doors to our restaurant in December 2022.

M: How did you decide on North Vancouver as the location? And why?

V: We live in North Van so we wanted our restaurant close by. Because it is a family business, we did not want to travel far. It’s just a 10 – 15 minute walk from here.

“We combined our skills and made it our goal to open Bobzaa”

M: Has the city and the community been receptive to Bobzaa?

V: It was hard because our goal was to open in three or four months and do the whole budget, but it took us seven months to get our restaurant license. It took forever because of COVID and we had several inspections. Every day we would wake up and go to City Hall to check the status on our license. They told us they did not know how long it was going to take because of COVID.

We invested everything and wanted to open now! We were working 24-7, day and night. It was hard to get the license.

Bobzaa and Nicole Hibert's Mother's Day Event — Bobzaa and Nicole Hibert’s Mother’s Day Event

M: Bobzaa collaborated with Nicole Hiebert, local promoter and artist and I for a Mother’s Day event. When will the next event be?

V: Well, we are planning. Nicole had the idea of a clothing swap. We want to do something different once a month so that’s our goal.

Bobzaa North Vancouver Family Owned Restaurant — Photo by Bobzaa The Dessert Cafe and Bistro

M: You also do private events. What do you provide and how long in advance do you need for customers to book the event?

V: We do all the decorations and everything if they choose to have it here at our location, we do full service. So they come here and just enjoy. If they book for their home, we do not decorate but we provide the catering service.

We need at least two weeks notice for customers booking an event.

M: What is your favourite item on the menu? For brunch, lunch and dessert?

V: For brunch I really like the waffles and for drinks my favourite is the Mango Frango. That is what I recommend to everyone. In food, I am a vegetarian, so I like the Potato Pizza. Also really good is the pesto and shrimp pizza. And for dessert, my favourite is the brownie. It’s vegan and gluten-free and you can’t even tell the difference when you taste it.

We only have one type of brownie and everyone has it. But no one can tell that’s it’s vegan.

It has been a long and difficult journey for Vash and her family to open the doors to their beloved Bobzaa. But they persevered and they did it! In the process of opening their North Vancouver restaurant, they have become experts in different industries; designed their own website, built their own tables and have done their own plumbing.

To order delicious dishes from their fusion infused menu, please visit their website and to stay up to date on their upcoming events, follow them on their Instagram page.

March 29, 2023March 29, 2023

16 WEST: Meet the People Behind the North Vancouver Restaurant

The first time I was a guest North Vancouver’s 16 WEST Restaurant was in August 2022, two months after they opened and I loved it! I had a four course meal with wonderful wine pairings.

I recently had the opportunity to interview 16 WEST’s owner and gracious host, Brooke Naito-Campbell.

M: You opened the doors to 16 WEST in the summer of 2022. What has the first year been like (almost the first year)?

B: 16 WEST opened on June 24, 2022 and the first year has been great. A gradual organic growth through word of mouth. Not as busy as we had hoped, but guests from Hachiro would come in so happy and excited saying, “I’m so glad you’re still here!” They weren’t sure what happened to us and they were worried we were gone.

Hachiro Ramen Transformed into 16 WEST

M: I did not get a chance to visit your previous restaurant, Hachiro Ramen. Besides the cuisine, what has been the main difference in running the two different restaurants?

B: Definitely more experienced servers with wine knowledge. We have a wine director and sommelier, Brendan Jones on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays who has curated a wine list for us, mainly local BC wines, but we are looking into curating international wines because our guests have been asking.

M: Was Hachiro the first North Vancouver restaurant you and your brother, Stephen opened?

B: Yes, Stephen went to Japan and studied how to make ramen before opening Hachiro. We opened 6 months before COVID hit. It was really hard. But I wanted to fight for our restaurant!

Hachiro had become a take-out restaurant. I wanted to change the menu into more of an izakaya and serve appies and cocktails, but a lot of the guests that came in just wanted a bowl of ramen.

“I am passionate about 16 WEST!”

M: How did 16 WEST come to be? Was it your idea or was it someone else’s?

B: I had a beautiful restaurant and it made me sad to leave it. So my friends, some employees that were there and I thought, what do we need in North Vancouver? What are we passionate about? What would feed the community?

We first thought of a Spanish tapas but then we thought a menu that’s not tied to one kind of food. We could serve French, Italian and Spanish. I love a wine bar and I am passionate about 16 WEST and so is my team.

M: What was your inspiration for the menu? Did you work together with your head chef or did you leave it to them?

B: Our menu is a collaboration between me and Jorge Camacho. He is from Dublin’s La Maison. French Bistro. We work really well together. Our coffee cake, biscuits and all our desserts are made by his best friend, Andrea Lopez.

16 WEST Head Chef Jorge Camacho and Owner Brooke Naito-Campbell

M: What is your favourite dish? (lunch, brunch, dinner)?

B: My favourite for lunch is the meatball sub. It is really good. One of my favourites for brunch is the steak hash, and for dinner the mushroom risotto with seared Hokkaido scallops (they will be on the menu shortly) and the mussels.

M: 16 WEST is now open for brunch on the weekends and lunch on weekdays. What is the busiest time? Are there certain times/days we should make a reservation?

B: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday nights and brunch on the weekends are the busiest times. We always have the bar open for walk-ins and we will be opening the patio soon for the warmer weather and walk-ins. Our patio is also dog-friendly.

Central Lonsdale Community

M: What is the best part of being located in Central Lonsdale?

B: Central Lonsdale needed a cool, hip restaurant. A hidden gem. It needed love. Lower Lonsdale has all the restaurants. Central Lonsdale is getting developed. 16 WEST is one of the few restaurants with a watering hole.

M: Being located in the heart of North Vancouver, in Central Lonsdale, do you feel a sense of community?

B: Yes, I feel the sense of community with our guests. We have some who have stayed with us since Hachiro and have become friends. One such guest, Susan brought a friend who asked me if I have ever thought of hosting a drag show. And I had! Thus our drag show brunches was born!

North Vancouver Roots

M: I read that you grew up in North Vancouver. What area? Where did you go to school?

B: I grew up in Pemberton Heights. I went to Capilano Elementary from Kindergarten to grade 7 and then high school in Arizona where my mom is from.

M: Did you always know that you would own a business? What did you want to be when you grew up?

B: No, I had no idea. Hahaha…what did I want to be when I grew up? As a kid I wanted to do the usual singing, dancing and as a teen I wanted to be a cosmetologist. I was a hair stylist for a long time before opening the restaurants.

After my daughter was born, I turned to food and hospitality because it was something I was around all my life and am passionate about. My dad was the Executive VP of Okabe Company that used to own Coast Hotels.

And now, my daughter, Mika loves to help me set up on the weekends: lighting candles, setting the tables and even expediting the food orders. She loves it!

M: What would your advice to future entrepreneurs with dreams of owning their own business be?

B: Owning a restaurant is tough. Surround yourself with great people. People that you trust and more experienced than you. I have learned so much and I am so grateful that we got through COVID.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or a famous quote you would like to share?

B: This too shall pass. It’s something I always tell myself and it is true.

16 WEST Hosts Events

M: Is there anything else you would like to share?

B: Right now we are focusing on meaningful events. We host a realtors luncheon and we have an upcoming women’s networking lunch.

In August we will have a PRIDE event with my husband coming out of retirement to be our DJ and drag queens. I am also in the beginning stages of organizing a fundraiser for ALS because my dad passed away from the disease.

If you have an idea for an event, please contact Brooke at kitchen@naitohospitality.com. To book a reservation call: 604.988.7561 or book online. If you would like to learn more about Central Lonsdale’s one of a kind wine restaurant and bar, please visit their website and follow them on Instagram.

February 26, 2022March 28, 2022

Local Small Business Feature Series — Vancouver Waxlings

I recently collaborated with Vancouver Waxlings founder, Margot J. Leviton and five other female-owned local small businesses for a Valentine’s Giveaway on Instagram. Margot’s prizes were the Bae and Babe candles featured in the photo above.

I originally met her through social media–She was offering a sample of her Key Lime Pie Candle. And coincidentally we also have a mutual friend. It is a small world and the pandemic has shown us just how connected we are as one.

M: When did you open your business?

VW: Waxlings was created in April 2020 when I dislocated my shoulder and could no longer see my Vancouver Healer clientele.

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

VW: I didn’t really think about it. It was hobby that turned into a business. I’ve had my own massage/healing practice since 2006.

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

VW: I grew up in North Vancouver.

M: What was your inspiration for your business?

VW: During the COVID-19 shutdown I saw my clients getting very depressed. I thought if I could create scents that would connect them to happy memories–I could help them.

Vancouver Waxlings Founder Margot J. Leviton

M: Did you go to university and if you did what did you study/major in? Which university did you attend? Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

VW: I went to WCCMT (West Coast College of Massage Therapy).

No, not these days. You really don’t need one if you have entrepreneurial savvy and can navigate social media.

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own business be?

VW: Go for it. If you have the drive and a great business concept–Just do it!

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

VW: Just. Be. Kind. It. Costs. Nothing.

MILESTONES

Are there any milestones for your business that you would like me to mention in the Feature?

When I landed my first stores Dip Co. Delights and Larry’s Market.

If you would like to learn more about Margot’s yummy Vancouver Waxlings candles, please visit their website, and follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

February 11, 2022February 11, 2022

Local Small Business Feature Series — Oenomel Chocolates’ First Year Anniversary

Welcome to Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s new Small Business Feature Series. Vancouver based, Oenomel Chocolates, is the first business to be featured and just in time to celebrate their first year anniversary.

Oenomel is a Greek word that means sweetness and strength. It’s what Melody hopes her chocolates bring to people.

I met Melody Hu, founder of Oenomel Chocolates on Instagram. I was intrigued by this lovely, ambitious organic chocolatier and started following her profile. She has graciously invited me to her local events but unfortunately, my schedule has not allowed me to attend thus far. My fingers are crossed that I will be able to join her next one!

Melody Hu, Founder of Oenomel Chocolates

M: When did you open your business?

MH: I launched my business on February 24th, 2021. So, in a way, my business is my Valentine. I have so much passion and love for it!

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

MH: I have always dreamt of building a brand that incorporates values, such as craftsmanship, sustainability, and wellness. And using that brand as a tool to create wealth for my loved ones.

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

MH: I was born in China and spent my childhood both in Shenzhen, the Silicon Valley of China, and Auckland, where sheep outnumber humans. I finished high school and got my Bachelor of Science Degree at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, where I studied Neuroscience and started my first venture, a macaroon startup business. And gradually, I fell in love with this city and decided that I wanted to build my business and home here.

M: What was your inspiration for your business?

MH: I wanted to create a product that incorporates health, wellness, and craftsmanship. I chose chocolates because there are too many sweets that are unhealthy. They tend to be filled with saturated fats and harmful amounts of sugar. I only use natural ingredients and organic, fair-trade chocolates that are sweet and delicious.

Blood Orange & Almond Blood Oenomel Chocolate

M: What did you do before opening your business?

MH: After graduating from UBC, I worked as an intern in a stem cell research company in Vancouver and then in business development for an international law firm in Shenzhen, China. I gained invaluable experience from both jobs.

M: If you were in a different industry, did you enjoy your former career?

Looking back, I did enjoy my former careers. When I worked in the law firm, I had guidance, and learned to work with others in a team. These are lessons that I have brought to start and develop my own company as an entrepreneur.

M: Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

MH: I was glad that I got a degree before opening my own business. University was an experience beyond what I chose for my major. I learned to learn, I gained mentorship from professors who have expertise in their field, and I joined clubs where I made lifelong friends.

University life has a lot to offer if you embrace it. There are many famous successful entrepreneurs who don’t have a post-secondary degree, so it is possible to succeed in business without a degree.

But you should know yourself and know what environment and path are best suited for your career development. And no matter which path you choose, you have to believe in yourself, have confidence, and never give up.

Oenomel Valentine’s gourmet truffles and bonbons

M: What would your advice to future owners with dreams of owning their own business be?

MH: See the value in yourself and your business and bring these values to people you wish to serve.

Work hard, understand and love yourself–Do these things well, and extend it to your employees.

Don’t stop learning, don’t be afraid to try new things and fail.

Never give up. There’s always a way to succeed.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or a famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

MH: “Dream big, start small, begin now.” — Robin Sharma, The 5 AM Club

MILESTONES

Oenomel Chocolates is celebrating its first year anniversary on February 24 and although it is a a startup business, it gives back to the Metro Vancouver community.

In December 2021. Oenomel Chocolate organized a fundraising event and raised 200 CAD for a non-profit organization to distribute food to insecure communities.

Over 20 local musicians, artists, and businesses participated, and over 100 guests joined us for a beautiful Warm Company and Wine Evening. It was an event worth remembering.

In 2022, Oenomel Chocolate continues to support charities with good causes. We will be organizing fundraising events and making donations to charity through the sales of some of our products.

If you would like to learn more about Oenomel products please visit their website and support them by following their on IG and FB.

December 7, 2021January 27, 2022

Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s Services

Building Community

Now more than ever, it is important to stay connected with our neighbours, local small business owners and strengthen our community. The pandemic has caused many businesses to suffer and some to close.

Services

Fashion INVESTIGATOR INC.’s mission is to empower small businesses to shine by offering digitally marketing, social media management, search engine optimization and public relations services.

We have increased local small businesses’ search engine optimization and raised them within the top 5 of Google searches, written over 30 business and restaurant features to highlight their talent, specialty and expertise.

Raisu Restaurant BLUEFIN TUNA DELUXE SEAFOOD BOWL — The Bluefin Tuna Deluxe Sewafood Bowl — Raisu Japanese Restaurant Feature, August 2021

Some of the Businesses We Featured

Blvd Bistro & Swich Café (Double Feature — same owner)
Cahill CPA
Coache Collision
Creative Inspo
Eclipse Awards
Fawn Gill Fitness
Daisy’s Sandwiches & Such
Fit Life Coaching
Goodlad Clothing
Green Coast Rubbish
Henna by Arneet
Little Pink Door Boutique
QRZones
Queen of the Closet
Raisu Authentic Japanese Cuisine
Tequila Cocina Restaurant

Connecting with Business Owners

The best part of our work is the connections we make with the people behind the businesses and restaurants we feature all across Metro Vancouver. We carefully select businesses that we truly enjoy whether it is because of the food, product and people or all the above.

We feel privileged to know the inspiring, creative and entrepreneurial individuals that took a chance to follow their dreams, worked hard and succeeded in starting their own businesses.

Kristin Ames of Fit Life Coaching — Interview & Feature, August 2020

There is a spark, a light within these men and women. We are uplifted when we interview them and dig into their stories:

Did they always want to own their own business?
What was their inspiration?
What is their advice to others who want to start their own business?

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August 21, 2021August 21, 2021

Local Restaurant Feature — Raisu Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Mama Izumi and I went on a Foodie Adventure recently and had the pleasure of dining at Raisu Restaurant in the heart of Kitsilano, where all of our foodie desires were satiated with their authentic Japanese cuisine.

I have been eating sushi since I was I was a little girl and they have the freshest, most delicious sashimi I’ve ever had. We shared the Raisu Lunch Meal Special.

You can choose 2 out of these 4 items:

Chef’s choice of sashimi (3 kinds), deep fried dishes (2 kinds), today’s meat dish, and today’s grilled fish.

Their lunch special also includes rice, miso soup, small dish, homemade pickles and salad.

We also feasted on their Bluefin Tuna Deluxe Seafood Bowl. And although we were stuffed full of yuminess we ordered their Yuzu Parfiat and Souffle Cheesecake for dessert.

Mama and I highly recommend Raisu to fans of sushi, sashimi, and Japanese food!

Raisu's Desserts — Yuzu Parfait & Souffle Cheesecake

I was intrigued and wanted to learn more about the people behind Raisu. I had the opportunity to interview their Assistant Manager, Yumi Takeshita.

Exclusive Interview with Raisu’s Assistant Manager

M: When did Raisu first open for business? Who is the founder?

Y: Raisu opened on July 2, 2016 as a sister restaurant to Kingyo Izukaya, Suika Snackbar, and Rajio Public House. All 4 restaurants are under the Tamaru Shoten Marketing Corp umbrella.

Minoru Tamaru began Kingyo about 10 years ago because he wanted to introduce people in Vancouver to Izakaya culture and provide authentic Japanese meals.

Raisu Restaurant Japanese Cuisine — Raisu is located at 2340 W 4th in Kitsilano

Inspiration for Opening Raisu and Providing Authentic Japanese Cuisine

M: What was Minoru’s inspiration for Raisu? Is he the sole owner or does he have business partners?

Y: Yes, he is doing this business by himself. Raisu’s concept is 80’s Japanese culture and Teishoku (balanced meal set).

M: Yumi, where are you originally from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

Y: I am from Japan and I hoped to live abroad when I there. I had heard Vancouver is the best city to live and I was interested what the Japanese culture was like here too.

M: What did you do prior to working at Raisu?

Y: I worked for 8 years at Coca-Cola bottlers in Fukuoka prefecture, in Japan. I was sales person, sales office administrator and HR. When I came here in Vancouver, I worked at JAPADOG as a manager, and went to college, worked as an accountant at an agency for Japanese students who want to study in Canada.

Then now I am working at Raisu. I have been working here 3 years and I am assistant manager fortunately since April. All my job experiences are now with food.

M: If you were in a different industry, did you enjoy your former career?

Y: Yes, absolutely. I enjoyed working every occasion. There are a lot of good things to know and learn. If it does not relate between each industry, I can find relations and there is no waste time that I have experienced.

Is University Important for Future Business Owners?

M: Did you go to university? If so, what did you study? Which university did you attend? Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

Y: Yes, I graduated Seinan Gakuin University in Fukuoka, Japan, and I earned a Bachelor of Law Degree.

I might recommend to pursue, but if they have clear future vision, that is no need to. However it is very worth time to pursue something and make friends before doing business. I think it is very important at that term.

M: Do you have any interest to own your own business?

Y: Yes I do, but I need to learn about business more, so I start working at Raisu.

Yumi’s Philosophy

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote you would like to share with everyone?

Y: Live everyday happily, that makes your future happy!

This is my philosophy to live but I am not sure there is similar quote in English.

MILESTONES

Raisu just celebrated it’s 5 Year Anniversary July 2^nd 2021.

Go in to congratulate them in person at 2340 West 4th Street or learn more about Raisu visit their website. You also have the option to order online and follow them on Instagram.

May 14, 2021May 17, 2021

Local Business Feature — Eclipse Awards International is Celebrating 23 Years in Business

I first met Toby Barazzuol, Owner and Founder of Eclipse Awards at Tillicum Elementary school in East Vancouver. He was in grade 2 and I was in grade 1. We had a few mutual friends and played on the jungle gyms in our neighbourhood. He moved away and then I didn’t see him again until we were in high school in North Vancouver — We were reacquainted by mutual friends that attended Windsor Secondary with him.

And now he’s running a successful company that is celebrating its 23rd year in business!

M: When did you open Eclipse Awards?

T: We opened the doors for the very first time at Eclipse Awards on April 1, 1998.

M: Did you always want to own your own business?

T: Since I was a kid, I always dreamed of starting some kind of business that would help people. My parents were both teachers with no real interest in business, so I think they sometimes wondered where I came from.

M: Where are you from? If you moved to Vancouver, why did you move here?

T: I was born and raised in Vancouver! In fact, we used to live upstairs of the Stanley Park Teahouse when my parents first started their family (my grandparents ran the restaurant there for many years). At age 5, we moved to the rainforests of North Vancouver, which is where I grew up and currently live. I love it here!

Toby Barrazuol & his children — Toby Barazzuol & his children in North Vancouver, BC

M: What was your inspiration for Eclipse?

T: I used to work at a small company and my boss had a side business making crystal awards and trophies. So I learned how to design awards, and sandblast them to bring them to life, and found that I really enjoyed using my hands to make things.

But after attending dozens of award ceremonies to watch our awards being presented, I began to notice that most award recipients were overcome with happiness, often crying tears of joy upon being recognized and appreciated. It was always such a positive, powerful and uplifting experience that I decided I wanted to help bring more of that into the world.

Customized Awards by Eclipse Awards Internationals — Eclipse Awards International create beautiful customized awards

M: What did you do prior to opening your business?

T: The small company I used to work for would build log homes and ship them to Japan. They were almost like puzzles, with each log numbered and reassembled on site overseas.

M: If you were in a different industry, did you enjoy your former career?

T: I enjoyed that earlier role because it taught me the skills to run my own business, but I wasn’t passionate about exporting log homes.

M: What did you study in university? Which university did you attend? Would you advise others to pursue a degree before opening their own business?

T: I went to Sauder Business School at UBC and majored in marketing and sociology. If you’re interested in starting your own business, a college or university degree is certainly helpful, though I wouldn’t say it’s required.

In terms of running a business, I don’t think school prepares you with practical knowledge or skills. However, it does teach you how to solve problems, communicate, and work with others, which are all important skills for running a business. You might be successful in starting a business without a degree, but I think your chances improve a lot with some education.

You Are Awesome Award by Eclipse Awards International — You Are Awesome Award by Eclipse Awards

M; What would your advice to future owners with dreams of starting their own business be?

T: Start a business if it’s something you love and believe in, not because you think it will make you rich. You will need to draw on your passion to get you through the challenging times of the first 3-5 years. If you are passionate about your work, do the things you promise to do, and treat people well, then the money will start to flow.

But spoiler alert.. if you think that owning your own business is the path to more free time, it’s actually the opposite.

M: Do you have a philosophy in life or famous quote, you would like to share with everyone?

T: “Energy flows where your attention goes.”

“Recognize. Empower. Repeat.”

We Rise By Lifting Others Quote by Robert Ingersoll — “We Rise By Lifting Others” a quote by Robert Ingersoll that’s very fitting for Eclipse Awards, a business that “Recognizes. Empowers. [and] Repeats”.

MILESTONES

2012: Eclipse Awards is the 8th company in BC to become a Living Wage Employer.

2012/13: Eclipse Awards is recognized as BC’s Best Employer by Small Business BC

2014: Eclipse Awards is recognized as BC’s Best Green Business by Small Business BC

To learn more about Eclipse follow their Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, you can also visit their website, Eclipse Awards – Maker of Fine Awards, Plaques, and Trophies.