Today’s Vancouver Mom: Lisa Beecroft
I’m a mother of two beautiful girls, Gabriela, 4, and Juliana, 8. My husband Patrick and I just opened a new bakery specializing in pies in Port Moody called Gabi & Jules, named after our daughters. We also own three Caffé Divano locations in the Lower Mainland. With the girls and the businesses, we’re super busy! Jules has autism, and we donate $1 from each pie sold to local autism organizations because they’ve been so helpful and supportive. It’s important for us to give back.
Gabi & Jules
The number one place we hang out is the bakery. It’s a new business so it requires much of our attention. The girls are often there too. Jules is a big help – she loves to pitch in and build our pie boxes.
Coquitlam Farmer’s Market
Even if we didn’t have a fairly regular stall at the Coquitlam Farmer’s Market, I’ll still drop by. The produce, the treats, the people. It’s such a warm inviting place, I love it.
Burrard Public House
When we need to schedule a business lunch, or if Patrick and I need a place for a quick midday catchup, we head here. It’s friendly, local and the food is always yummy. My go-to order is the short ribs sandwich and fries. Comfort food!
Old Orchard Park, Shoreline Trail
Port Moody is such a beautiful place to live. One of my favourite places to take in the outdoors is the Old Orchard Park. The Shoreline trail takes you around the inlet. It’s so calm and peaceful, a great place to regroup.
Village Toy Shop
I like to support local small businesses like the Village Toy Shop. It’s independently owned and has been around for 15 years. They have a great selection of puzzles, something I love doing with the girls.
Master Milad’s Port Moody Taekwondo
This Taekwondo studio is right beside the bakery, so that’s pretty handy! They have an award-winning program for kids and they’re extremely inclusive and kind. The girls love it. It’s the first place where Jules really felt included in a group activity.
George’s Gourmet Meats
Considering we own three dining establishments, it’s probably not surprising that we’re big foodies! The butcher here is a young entrepreneur who really knows her meats. The beef is grass fed, hormone free and very high quality. Patrick shops here almost every day.
