The much-loved Rock Bay Square building that is home to many of the city’s artisans and artists is for sale. But those who count on the cheap studio rent for everything from painting to carving, have their fingers crossed, wishing that this community, with its Brooklyn-esque creative vibe, will last and last. Read more…
Jane Allen has been a part of the Sherwood project since last year and she has fallen in love with living and working in Victoria – creating cocktails that reflect the vibrance of the city. Read more…
Avi Kunen of Little Jumbo believes that cocktails shouldn’t be taken too seriously. The fun cocktail list puts a contemporary twist on the classic look of the 19th century style bar. Read more…
Clive’s Classic Lounge could be called ground zero for Victoria’s booming cocktail culture. Jayce Kadyschuk tells us about his experience as a mixologist and shares his recipe for his maccha sour. Read more…
Restaurants like Nubo and Aura are fusing together Pacific Rim flavours inspired by the sea. Read more…
The author of the local blog, Sidewalking Victoria, opens up about his experience as an avid observer of our capital city in this personal interview. Read more…
Cheryl Bryce is a Songhees Nation member who knows that the island’s forests and ecosystems are not just natural but also cultural. Read more…
Victoria residents have a fierce and protective love for the trees that abound in this city. Read more…
Victoria is a literary destination, as much built on books as bricks. In this city of words, writer Robert J. Wiersema — bookseller turned novelist — shares lessons from 23 years of talking to readers about books. Read more…
As the sun goes down and lights begin illuminating the city, that’s when the magic starts to happen, with spring fashion featuring bold stripes, pops of colour and a bit of shimmer bringing the night to life. Read more…
Joan Athey is ensuring that the famous collection of photos featuring John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s “Bed-In for Peace” doesn’t become forgotten. Read more…
YAM writer explores the rich cheese culture on Vancouver Island. Read more…
Female musicians are taking off – YAM talks to three powerful artists on their experience in music in Victoria. Read more…
Read the 50 places to go and things to do to get the most out of Summertime in Victoria, B.C. Read more…
Take a tour through this Fairfield home full of contrast and minimalist style. Read more…
Fashion is rarely elevated to the same stature as painting, music, or sculpture. And yet, it is a true expression of art because it is art lived daily. Read more…
The Victoria Dragon Boat Festival Society is putting on a fundraising Gala on June 18, 2019. Read more…
A combination of climate and innovation has created an agricultural and craft mecca in Cowichan. Plan your vacation to this beautiful holiday destination. Read more…
Nominations for YAM’s Best Restaurant Awards are now closed — look for the winners announcement in our July/August issue of YAM! Read more…
Chloe and Marie-Eve’s big-sister, little-sister relationship is just one reason to join the Bowl for Kids’ Sake Fundraiser. Read more…
The Oak Bay Beach Hotel offers breathtaking ocean views of snow-capped mountains. It is minutes away from boutique shops, cafes, and galleries in Oak Bay. Read more…
Powell Floral hosts floral design workshops that teach people to design playfully and creatively. Read more…
This chair design uses a harmonious selection of elements for a modern look. Read more…
Nettles may be tricky to pick without gloves but they are well worth the effort with many culinary uses that adds a wild element to dishes. Read more…
When you clean out your closet and discover forgotten items you may just learn something about yourself. Read more…
Pigeonhole Home Store is known to be a treasure trove – and for the beautiful shelving in the front room. Read more…
Chef Aaron Lawrence of La Pasta shares his recipe for saffron fettuccine with clams. Read more…
Sometimes the hardest thing to do is to face our fears and move forward – but it is possible. Read more…
Perfect for a dip, spread or pasta sauce. Read more…
A collection of products that mash up coastal, desert and bohemian styles. Read more…
E:Né Raw Food and Sake Bar brings a dark and sultry vibe to dining in the city with cedar panelling and creative wall decor. Read more…
Superbaba melds old-school diner vibe with Middle Eastern esthetic using curved elements and pops of colour. Read more…
Home decor for 2019 is all about organic curves so here is a selection of home decor that will help soften the edges in your home. Read more…
Ms. Madoff is a longtime Victoria resident and city councillor and has an eclectic and wonderful sense of personal and home style. Read more…
Calculus has artisanal menswear and specialty garments for Victoria’s fashion watchers. Read more…
The condo in Victoria West has an irresistible view and an even better stove. Read more…
Kay Strickland creates unique pieces from her home studio in Ucluelet that reflect the Pacific Northwest. Read more…
This spring Victoria hosts plays, music and art so there is something for everyone. Read more…
Here are seven tips to start making your own pasta at any budget and skill level. Read more…
the View Royal home has an elegant mix of Scandinavian and minimalistic design with just a hint of country. Read more…
Chef Peter Zambri’s broccoli pasta is a one-pot dish that can be on the table in 15 minutes. Read more…
Dance Victoria’s partnership with Crystal Pite and Ballet BC is a new level of maturity for the local company. Read more…
Each Cold Gold piece is hand cast and has unique characteristics so no two pieces are alike. Read more…
Reclamation dresses made by local designer Trista Smith are truly stunning vintage lace creations. Read more…
Inhabit Designs filled Travelbea and Associates with bold wallpaper and a modern colour palette. Read more…
The Courtney Room is an elegant space where the old world meets the new. Read more…
Home is more than where you reside – it is a state of being that includes all aspects of life. Read more…
Pam Ubeda of Coast + Beam Architecture talks to YAM about her love of friendships, family, and architecture. Read more…
Pasta is growing in popularity due to the opportunity to buy high-quality, artisanal pasta or making your own. Read more…
It is time to throw open the doors and decide how you want to style your deck. With plenty of fresh, hot picks for the warmer seasons. Read more…
How to both get and keep your pantry in order. Read more…
Tips and tricks to update and clean up your home. Read more…
Heart and Sole Shoes has launched Heart and Sole Too that offers fine hosiery and fun clothing. Read more…
Sherwood Cafe and Bar experiments with lots of plants and greenery to soften the light in the space. Read more…
Studio Kanti has an inviting ambience that creates private cozy areas in a boxy space. Read more…
Nine days of tasting, education, and of course – beer. Victoria hosts 40 BC craft breweries for this fun-filled week. Read more…
Let that inspiration come from the surrounding environment by bringing a bit of the outdoors in. Read more…
Sustainability and the 3Rs aren’t anything new, but the ways in which green consciousness is progressing to touch all corners of our lives is surprising — and encouraging. Read more…
Every year, the editors at Merriam-Webster keep track of any new words gaining prevalence in our lexicon, making this online dictionary a valuable — and maybe unexpected — lens on trends. Here are just a few of the new entries. Read more…
Designer Tonino Mantovani creates scarves from his own paintings with the goal of evoking beauty and pleasure with his colourful creations. Read more…
Heartwood & Co is a place full of heart and passion. An overwhelming sense of peace envelopes you as soon as you walk in the doors. Heartwood embraces the spirit of a multi-use space with their curated services. Read more…
Sometimes we all need a reminder that to truly grow we need reflections, forgiveness and a positive mindset. Read more…
Timeless, slow-fashion is always on trend. Local designer, Nomi Levi, uses linen to capture the effortless layered style that works so well on the West Coast. Read more…
Living small is redefining the Canadian dream home Read more…
Whether you prefer a warm cup of tea in the morning or a crisp glass of wine in the evening. Or both! YAM has you covered with businesses that celebrate the drinks we love to sip. Read more…
Ideas and cultural trends are always shifting, growing and changing. YAM explores some of the largest cultural shifts and movements for the coming year. Read more…
Even cutting back to 50 or 100 grams of carbs per day can improve blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Here are some tips on how to start decreasing your intake. Read more…
Local street artist Kashif Abbas opens up about happiness, his greatest love and the importance of human connection. Read more…
In 2019, with a greater emphasis on wellness, more brides and grooms will choose experiential pre-wedding parties over alcohol-fueled all-nighters. Here are some local ideas. Read more…
The looks and styles to take note of this year from fashion to home decor. Read more…
YAM visits Laura Harris in her downtown studio and discovers why this Victoria artist, celebrated for her abstract florals and landscapes, has traded the comfort zone for life on the creative edge. Read more…
Mid-century style meets contemporary artistry in this Fairfield home. Read more…
Low-carb diets are ever-popular because they tend to work, but do they have to be so extreme? YAM presents low-carb diet ideas you can actually live with. Read more…
Tofino Towel Co continues to celebrate the West Coast lifestyle with their new Sand & Sea home collection. Read more…
Denim has been a style staple for so long, we tend to take it for granted. But this year, get ready for denim to dominate. Read more…
Known for dazzling talent and spirited performances, Ivonne Hernandez is a bright spark in the fascinating world of fiddle music. Read more…
This year’s biggest wedding trends combine the regal touch with an infusion of informality. Read more…
Rich gold, mallard blue and Tibetan red are just three of the trending tones in Pantone’s 2019 Classico palette for interior design. As the name implies, these hues are fundamental, everlasting and elegant — and forever fashionable. Read more…
How to decrease the plastic in your life – at home, the store and out & about. Read more…
YAM writer embarks on a journey to cut back on using products that clog up our oceans and discovers a whole new mindset. Read more…
A unique statement piece that plays with our perspective. Read more…
If you’re keen to try the latest plant-based diet trend, you’re in the right city. Read more…
Victoria has some pretty wonderful musical, cultural and artistic events all year round. Here are our February picks for what to see in music, art and the stage. Cape Breton’s golden (bad) boy A certain enfant terrible, fiddler Ashley MacIsaac, will join local guitar whiz Quinn Bachand on another stop in a 10-year off-and-on gig. […] Read more…
Victoria makeup artist and stylist Erin Bradley dishes on how to look your best on the big day. Read more…
Paboom is a store filled with eclectic gifts, home decor and a wide selection of colours and textures to thrill your senses as you walk through the door. Read more…
Velvet is a timeless choice. Whether in rich jewel tones or soft pastels, this plush textile adds an opulent touch to your wardrobe and decor. The Loren sofa from Mobital is upholstered in a rich shimmery velvet. (Max Furniture, $3,499) Add textural quality to your accessories with this mini quilted backpack. (Indigo, $30) The Mirage […] Read more…
“For me, making with clay is about time and memory and space…” Read more…
High-style, high-fun gift ideas guaranteed to make even the most choosy people on your shopping list happy. Read more…
Top 5 houseplants, according to a NASA study on healthy, oxygenated air. Read more…
The team at YAM magazine collected their favourite seasonal music for our holiday playlist. It’s a fun mix for get-togethers — or just getting in the holiday spirit. Read more…
Victoria’s comedy scene has gone from ho-hum to happening thanks to some great gigs and a new breed of hilarious (and even home-grown) funny folks. Read more…
This favourite holiday recipe, so often passed down through families’ generations like heirlooms, is really all about the butter.
Read more…
Local Choirs are uniting communities and bringing Victoria together. Read more…
Take a tour of a family manor that exudes coziness and connection with nature. Read more…
Seafood dishes signify special occasions with their aromas and rich flavours – making them perfect for the Holidays. Read more…
YAM explores how the Holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy the bounty of the sea. By Cinda Cavich There’s something about serving crustaceans that always says “let’s celebrate” to me. Though shellfish was a rare treat in my childhood home, every year, just before Christmas, my dad would come home with several pounds of frozen […] Read more…
Farmers like Hanahlie Beise are raising alpacas, llamas and sheep to make yarn from their coats, creating high-quality, slow-fashion products with a distinct B.C. edge. Read more…
Jump into the Holiday spirit with these 3 creative shortbread cookie recipes. Read more…
YAM explores how to create a living space that calms, heals and nourishes — and invites happiness.
Read more…
Chase away those winter blues by layering various textures, patterns, and materials to create an effortless west coast warmth this season. Read more…
It’s fun to find a good book under the Christmas tree to curl up with over the holidays. Cookbooks provide inspiration for months and years to come. Here are several new local titles to add to your gift list for food lovers. Read more…
Jamie Gentry adds a personal touch to each pair of her moccasin creations by engaging with her customers before starting the design process. Read more…
Sharmarke chats with YAM about his greatest achievement, when it is permissible to lie, and what trait he finds most deplorable. Read more…
Pigeonhole provides a welcoming atmosphere and wide selection to find your next unique and stylish furniture or decor piece for your home. Read more…
SALT stays environmentally conscious and encourages shopping with intention as it grows from its original Saltspring roots. Read more…
Michal Negrin moves into the old Teavana location at the Bay Centre and creates a relaxed and upscale shopping experience by offering a tea bar within the store. Read more…
Scent can connect you to a memory, a place or even a feeling — which is why some perfume makers refer to their art as storytelling. Read more…
Amelia Lee’s new bright open space at Uptown houses everything from jewelry to home decor to children’s clothes and toys. Read more…
Creative Korean eateries are conquering Victoria’s once-traditional palate — and we can’t get enough. Read more…
Based in East Sooke and owned by husband-and-wife founders Teague Griffin and Sarah Richer, Wild Hill grows its own organic herbs to create small-batch, handcrafted products. Read more…
A bold reno transforms a dark Vancouver Island manor into a light-filled beach house. Read more…
A forest bathing getaway to Tofino unlocks the restorative potential of nature. By Athena McKenzie The original trail to Hot Springs Cove was created over time by the Hesquiaht First Nation and then by early settlers, who created the boardwalk. A new boardwalk was constructed in the 1990s to protect the natural landscape. Photograph by Carrie […] Read more…
Winemaker Bailey Williamson shares his greatest fear, his idea of perfect happiness and which historical figure he most admires in this frank conversation. Read more…
Set your GPS for authentic wanders through nature, history, cuisine, the Night Market and more. Read more…
The top three restaurants in Victoria this year, as decided by YAM’s panel of judges. Read more…
YAM explores how the mindful culinary practice of mise-en-place can bring order to life outside of the kitchen. Read more…
Hayley Rosenberg, owner of Nourish Kitchen and Café, talks simplicity, change, and cooking the way Grandma used to. Read more…
Step out in style with the season’s most eye-catching trends, from the modern pantsuit to romantic dresses to bold colours and stripes a-plenty. Read more…
YAM writer Moira Dann shares which pieces of public art she loves, which ones she likes a little less and why she thinks public art is a positive addition to our city. Read more…
At Spinnakers, dry-rubbed wild Pacific salmon, halibut and smoked tuna are served on Adriana’s chia tortillas with crunchy cabbage, chilies and a drizzle of citrusy sauce. Read more…
The next time you’re craving sugar, want to treat yourself to a gorgeous bouquet or are hunting for a luxurious candle, opt for these local products. Read more…
YAM magazine staff share their top Victoria tracks for our ultimate summer playlist. Read more…
Ask Victoria jeweler Idar Bergseth of Idar Jewellers why his work draws from nature and he’ll tell you it wasn’t always that way. Read more…
How the city’s public art goes from a creative idea into an artistic reality. Read more…
With hundreds — or even thousands — of reasons to love Victoria, it was no easy task for the YAM team to narrow it down to our top 50. Read more…
Neil Osborne of 54-40 is a rock star, but he’s Victoria’s rock star, and that makes all the down-to-earth difference. Read more…
Whether you’re looking for dry or fresh chilies, tomatillos or fresh cilantro, you can get Mexican ingredients in local supermarkets and specialty shops. Read more…
With Pantone proclaiming Ultra Violet as the colour of the year for 2018, purple is having a moment. Read more…
With legalization on the horizon, the city is readying for a trendy green future. Read more…
David Lennam, one of Cook Street Village’s engaged residents, gives us a view to village life. Read more…
YAM’s top picks for what’s new in theatre, music and art this season. Read more…
When a weekend getaway outside of Victoria calls, Sooke is close enough to be convenient, but far enough to let you take a deep breath. Read more…
Not since the days of Harpo’s has Victoria had a city-defining live-music venue. Capital City Ballroom is ready to be that place. Read more…
A new book about Canada’s brunch capital will convince you that breakfast is really
an “anytime, anywhere” type of meal. Read more…
Ancient Greeks considered the beet to be an aphrodisiac, and while that may be debatable, there’s so much to love about Aphrodite’s favourite food. Read more…
Avoid common home decor problems and update your interior so that it really shines. Read more…
When it comes to giving your home interior a powerful style surge for 2018, think wild wallpaper. Read more…
See her work at Madrona Gallery and at the Fired Up! ceramics exhibit in Metchosin this May 25 to 27. Read more…
Craftsman architecture merges with West Coast artistry in a custom oceanfront home whose beauty is the result of a balance of opposites. Read more…
Boho, Gypset, modern romantic — however you describe this enduring style, you can find it at Shabby Rabbit Clothing, the new boutique on Oak Bay Avenue. Read more…
This trending tone works wonderfully as a primary colour on walls, but it’s equally evocative as an accent and makes a contemporary statement in cosmetics. Read more…
Our top picks for what’s new in theatre, music and art this March and April.
Read more…
For these individuals, finding home meant discovering a unique space, adding lots of character and building a sense of community. Read more…
Far from being afterthoughts, accessories are fashion essentials for that head-turning finish. Read more…
West Coast Refill, located in Chinatown’s Dragon Alley, is a modern, minimalist bulk store for home-cleaning and body-care products. Read more…
Interior designer Tamara Bush’s home is incredibly personal: it’s part showpiece, part princess castle and part act of rebellion. Read more…
At last, functionality is fun and stylish. Read more…
Make a statement with your wedding flowers. Read more…
From baba ghanouj to shawarma, flavourful dishes of the Middle East and Mediterranean are proving irresistible to food lovers with palates for the exotic. Read more…
Evoke drama with the bold lines of geometric patterns. Read more…
Are you saying “I do” this year? Incorporate these style, decor and floral trends into your important day to make it glamorous and bold — and, most importantly, a day you’ll never forget. Read more…
Kirk van Ludwig’s line of furniture is inspired, in part, by car design. Read more…
You’ve heard of farm-to-table. This is bean-to-bar. Read more…
Bao Ly’s custom shoes are hand sewn using fine leather and make a serious style statement. Read more…
A chef by trade, D. Ellis also designs his own clothing brand. Dellis Made is an urban-inspired line of basics. Read more…
Exploring all things Asian in Richmond — no passport required. Read more…
The sweet and earthy Honey Tobacco apothecary products grew out of the signature candle that Britt Buntain created for Picot, her Fernwood boutique for well-designed gifts and goods. Read more…
Kaleidoscope Theatre’s production of Pinocchio is less Disney, more Indigenous. Read more…
Studio Robazzo uses parametric algorithmic design to create funky, industrial-style interior elements. Read more…
Jonathan Gleed talks artistic angst, giant chickens and subjective truth. Read more…
Consider these 17 ingredients all staples if you want to prepare authentic Middle Eastern dishes at home. Read more…
Our top picks for what’s new in music and art. Read more…
Bookmark this page. When you’re ready to make a Middle Eastern feast, you’ll have five great recipes and they will all be a hit. Read more…
YAM discovers that trying something new and exciting — whether it’s the new fitness craze of bouldering or a real-life circus training workout — is the key to loving your workout. Read more…
These make sticking to that New Year’s fitness resolution easier. Read more…
This year, watch for a major shift away from too much softness. Instead, think strong, as in strong colour, strong statements and strong textures. Read more…
With so many beautiful, Vancouver Island homes featured in our magazines this year, it was a challenge to pick just a few. There were bold bathrooms, bright kitchens and cozy living areas, but these are our six favourite rooms from our 2017 issues. Read more…
If you’re a foodie looking for some tasty inspiration, re-visit these food stories that appeared in our 2017 magazines. You’ll find lists of great eats, recipes and interesting tidbits. Read more…
While you’re reflecting on 2017, also look back on the six issues of YAM — and re-read your favourite stories from those issues. Read more…
We saw some inspiring fashion photography in our pages this year. Here are a few of our favourite images from the fashion shoots that appeared in our 2017 magazines. Read more…
YAM goes foraging with the founders of Gather to discover the wild flavours of conifers, perfect for your Yuletide recipes. Read more…
It’s the season of comfort and joy, but what does joy really mean? As YAM discovers, some of the most inspiring wisdom about joy comes from people who have seemingly had the greatest burdens to carry. Read more…
Biophilia is encouraging Victoria residents to bring the outdoors in. Read more…
From Kimberley Vy, pastry chef at The Inn at Laurel Point, comes this unique champagne sponge Cake, layered with white chocolate buttercream and garnished with sugar-frosted cranberries. Read more…
Our top picks for what’s new in theatre, music and poetry. Read more…
A Saanich historical home revives its owners’ dreams with a modern take on historic luxury. Read more…
Treat the foodie in your life with a cookbook by a local author this season. Read more…
From coconut flurries to fluffy meringues, and icing as white as newly fallen snow, it’s the season for dreamy desserts. Read more…
Welcome your favourite people into your home with a low-stress, high-impact cocktail party that sets the tone for the season. Read more…
From an invigorating winter beach walk to indulging in some old-fashioned holiday glitz, give yourself the best of the season with these unique local adventures. Read more…
Tom Moore, the chef/owner of Crust Bakery, says meringues make lovely gifts when packaged in pretty cello bags. Read more…
Look to expertly guided workshops to help you make truly original gifts and décor this holiday season. Read more…
From traditional crystal chandeliers to art-deco inspired pendants, the right overhead statement lighting brings personal drama to your home. Read more…
Here are some ideas for infusing your home with unhurried glamour this season. Read more…
The maxim that the best gifts come in small packages is made truer when local jewelry makers create those coveted gifts. Read more…
The Kimpton Palladian reimagines a historic hotel, melding old-world beauty and luxe design. Read more…
At Crust Bakery, chef Tom Moore makes pans of Marshmallow S’mores to cut into squares and brulée with a torch for a simple holiday dessert. Read more…
Be a tourist in your own city — and check out a part of town you likely don’t visit very often — and stay at the beautifully restored Fairmont Empress Hotel. Read more…
The oneTree 2017 exhibit opened at the Robert Bateman Centre on November 16 and will run until January 31, 2018. Read more…
YAM looks into the bittersweet appeal of vermouth. Read more…
The OPUS Hotel in Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown neighbourhood mixes local art with the sassy chic of bright colours and bold patterns. Read more…
Susannah Ruth Bryan, the maker of beautiful cakes at Ruth & Dean in Victoria, is famed for her tall, snowy coconut cakes. Read more…
These products are all inspired by Greenery, Pantone’s colour of the year. Read more…
Visit as many holiday craft markets as you can and shop local this season. Read more…
It’s called Iced Victoria and it’s essentially an ice cream truck for adults. Read more…
A visionary couple has brought the ancient art of olive growing to Salt Spring Island — and the result is a rare extra-virgin olive oil, coveted by chefs. Read more…
Artist and jazz musician Noah Becker about his “New York state of mind” and why the Big Apple keeps beckoning him back. Read more…
Ines Hanl shares her greatest extravagance, her idea of perfect happiness and why she loves Pippi Longstocking. Read more…
The humble coffee table can be the standout statement piece of your décor. Read more…
Boutique owner Kari McLay blends old-world elegance with a modern twist. Read more…
Embrace a luxurious layered look this season with textured handmade pieces, designer knitwear, unstructured silhouettes and an organic, natural palette. Read more…
The French are known for their under-styled elegance, which plays surprisingly well here on the West Coast. Read more…
Partners in love and business, the styles of McCauley Wanner and Ryan Palibroda of Alleles Design Studio artfully complement each other. Read more…
A passion for retro inspires milliner Maria Curcic’s eclectic fashion. Read more…
Adding blocks of colour to your home isn’t just for the fashion world. Read more…
A savvy design and construction team transforms a home suffering from decades of mismatched renos into a modern masterpiece of exceptional grandeur. Read more…
Graham and Ashleigh Newmarch bring the world of alternative high fashion to Victoria. Read more…
Leading up to the AGGV’s annual House Tour on September 24, YAM visits one of Victoria’s most artful homes, renovated specifically to showcase the owners’ impressive collection, which includes iconic pieces by David Blackwood and Douglas Coupland. Read more…
These are our music and art event picks we think you should put on your to-do list this season. Read more…
How YAM’s food writer embraced reducetarianism, stopped overeating animal protein and learned to love the lentil. Read more…
This fall, we’ve got our eyes on Kez Sherwood’s ceramics, functional credenzas and pastel stools. Read more…
Creating a stylish living space isn’t about recreating the flawless neutrality of a model show home. Today’s home style is more about originality than artifice — and favours personality over perfection. Read more…
Does any food evoke summer more that ice cream? YAM visits an ice-cream artisan to discover the tricks to making this cool creamy treat at home. Read more…
How many grown-ups really enjoy bedding down on the ground? We’ve got your camping alternatives, from serene treetop spheres to luxe tents with soaker tubs.
Read more…
Tart and refreshing, the classic gin and tonic gets an ultimate summer makeover when made with Empress 1908 Indigo Gin and blended with ice. Read more…
An award-winning Cadboro Bay home takes its cues from its locale on the ocean’s edge — it blends into its environment with a modern esthetic, using glass, concrete, stone and wood. Read more…
Celebrate Canada 150 by exploring our culinary heritage with a delicious barbecue inspired by the unique flavours of the West Coast. Read more…
Nate Caudle — who has twice won Art of the Cocktail’s competition for Best Bartender in the Pacific Northwest — shares what drew him to bartending, when he lies and his biggest fear. Read more…
You’ve heard of molecular gastronomy? One could say Victoria now has micro gastronomy. Chef Liam Quinn has set up shop in the teensy spot on lower Johnson Street made famous by Smoking Lily. Read more…
Located in one of Victoria’s most coveted neighbourhoods, this fully restored heritage home — complete with vintage-inspired touches and modern amenities — comes with its own backstory. Read more…
Chefs have a “new” tool in their culinary arsenal — fire. Pushing back against high-tech kitchen trends, many are ditching the thermo-circulators and foam siphons for something
far simpler: a smoky wood or charcoal-fired grill. Read more…
A refresh of this Victoria home by designers Kyla Bidgood and Kristine Hageland of Bidgood and Co. introduces playful elements of colour and pattern — making for a vibrant and functional living space. Read more…
YAM’s food columnist Cinda Chavich explores our region to discover the latest palate-pleasing offerings, culinary talent and eatery openings. Read more…
The right pieces not only add design and colour to your rooms, they can also bring emotion and depth. YAM talks to the experts about how to buy art for your home. Read more…
Retailers looking to give their customers a more authentic and local experience are reviving an old-style concept: the general store. Read more…
The Victoria home uses a dynamic mix of geometric lines and natural elements to create a unique West Coast space and a modern Zen experience. Read more…
Cutting gardens have been in and out of fashion since the days of the ancient Egyptians. Today, many gardeners are rediscovering the eco-benefits and the pure pleasure of growing, harvesting and arranging their own blooms. Read more…
YAM heads off the highway and discovers a new Island destination — Duncan is small-town charm fused with a hip edge in everything from food and art to fashion and even music. Read more…
Victoria’s Leslie Shewring is a designer, stylist and photographer whose work — both unattributed and under her own name — has brought her international success. Read more…
Soups are super nourishing and loaded with easily digestible vitamins and minerals, so it’s not surprising that “souping” is the latest health-food trend. And it’s not hard to add souping to your home-cooking routine. Read more…
From a new butcher to a local take on bao buns, YAM’s food columnist Cinda Chavich explores our region to discover the latest palate-pleasing offerings, culinary talent and eatery openings. Read more…
You’ll never look at squirrels the same way once you’ve seen the finely detailed paintings of Carollyne Yardley, whose distinctive style (which she dubbed Squirrealism) has earned her international attention. Read more…
Inspired by the minimalism of winter, these white tulle skirts, silk and lace dresses and soft sweaters perfectly capture the dreamlike quality of the season. Read more…
Stretching tall instead of wide, this spectacular Nanaimo home — designed by an architect for his own family —turns minimal space into a high-reaching, light-filled oasis of inspiration. Read more…
This annual mid-winter celebration is having a moment. YAM’s food expert goes in search of the perfect recipe for a contemporary take on the Robbie Burns Dinner. Read more…
A guide to planning your wedding day. Searching for the perfect bridal look? Here are five of 2017’s standout trends to inspire you to make a style statement on your wedding day. Read more…
“I’m so exhausted” is the frequently spoken anti-mantra of many Canadians. YAM explores this not-so-modern epidemic and how to escape it. Read more…
From awe-inspiring spaces to iconic furniture and art, these four creative forces are pushing the form and function of our West Coast esthetic.
Read more…
This being a celebratory time of year, your fridge should never be without a bottle of sparkling wine. And local Island bubbly is the perfect pairing for all your holiday celebrations — whether you drink it as is or mix it into a holiday cocktail. Read more…
Wander under moss-hung trees, tramp across windswept scenic bluffs, or amble along sandy shorelines — these West Coast excursions prove you don’t need to rough it to reap the benefits of an invigorating winter hike. Read more…
In their entrancing postwar house, a shop owner and a chef combine classic elements and favourite pieces to sublime effect — creating a life surrounded by the things they love. Read more…
From Venetian royalty to modern rock stars and luxe-loving fashionistas — velvet always makes a statement. It’s calling card says, “I know exactly who I am.” Read more…
From elegant rings of lush juniper to loopy twists of vine and draping cedar, it’s all about personal expression when crafting your own winter wreath. Read more…
Whether you want to bake gingerbread cookies or construct gingerbread condos, YAM brings you tips and stories from local gingerbread gurus to enrich this most gingery of seasons. Read more…
Incorporate this Danish mainstay into your life and learn how the practice of coziness can create a sanctuary for your soul. Read more…
Sweet chestnut trees are an endangered species in North America, but our culinary expert has sleuthed out ways you can still have chestnuts roasting on an open fire — or in delicious holiday soups, stuffings and desserts. Read more…
Eaten fresh or cooked into sweet pies or savoury dishes, heirloom apples possess unique flavours and fascinating heritage stories that make them the hidden gems of B.C.’s fall bounty. Read more…
The topic of “whisky trends” may seem to be an oxymoron — innovation and change aren’t words one typically associates with whisky. But change is afoot for the spirit — in British Columbia and around the world. Read more…
The designers who outfit Victoria’s men in casual wear are a diverse lot, united by a sense of style and influenced by the Pacific landscape and coastal city life. Read more…
Finding — and keeping — friends in adulthood can be a challenge, but by shifting the focus from you to others, you’ll open the door to the best friendships you’ve ever experienced. Read more…
This month’s Style Watch — which brought together YAM’s fashion editor Janine Metcalfe and Director of Photography Jeffrey Bosdet with contemporary Northwest Coast artist Rande Cook — explores fashion in nature to bring myth alive. Read more…
From the coastal cool of the shopkeepers of Beachology to the urbanism of the salon owners of DesignHouse, these four dynamic duos make Victoria a little more hip — and by sharing their passions, allow us all to bring some flair into our own lives. Read more…
This Quadra Island home is drawing worldwide attention and the kind of architectural acclaim usually reserved for art galleries, libraries and other buildings of public significance. But first, it’s a home. Read more…
The creator of Elate Clean Cosmetics, Melodie Reynolds has rejected beauty marketing that plays on fear and inadequacy. Her message: show yourself some love. Read more…
Temperatures may have been soaring on August 18, but it was Fashion Inferno that made it the hottest night of the summer. A fashion party like no other, the evening saw models — and firefighters —strutting the runway in the latest looks from some of Victoria’s favourite local boutiques. Read more…
Cheesemaking celebrity and food activist David Asher is teaching students how to make cheeses from raw — and yes, illegal — unpasteurized milk. It’s all deliciously underground. Read more…
Constructed of steel and tempered skyscraper windows, this unique eco-friendly home is designed to last for at least a millennium. Some might call it a prototype for the ideal home for the 21st century and beyond. Read more…
Enjoyed on any sunny patio, a gin and tonic is the best cure for the summertime blues — two simple ingredients poured over ice and given a gentle stir. Use these B.C.-made gins for a local terroir of cedar, fir, lavender, bay laurel and, of course, juniper. Read more…
Take your fashion cue from country life this summer in textures, colours and patterns inspired by everything from weathered red barns to bales of blonde hay. Whether you choose denim, summer cashmere or gaucho-style culottes, it’s the perfect time to revel in rural chic. Read more…
YAM goes in search of Victoria’s best happy hours and discovers a city that has embraced a new tradition. In bars and on patios everywhere, Victorians are blissing out with their favourite beers and cocktails. Read more…
From surfing to Jazzercise, fitness not only shapes our bodies, but also has the power to completely transform our lives in powerful and positive ways. Discover how inspiration, not intimidation, is the most powerful tool when you are embarking on Project You. Read more…
Known as the shellfish capital of BC, the beaches of Baynes Sound are where the oyster industry has flourished for decades. Follow YAM’s food writer Cinda Chavich as she discovers the how, where and when to dig for clams — and cook your catch! Read more…
A Gulf Island escape doesn’t get any dreamier than this Pender Island home, designed for inviting family gatherings. Inspired by nature and filled with art and mementos, this home exemplifies summer living at its best. Read more…
The fourth annual Dîner en Blanc Victoria saw a crowd of 1,700 descend on the grounds of the Delta Ocean Pointe for the elegant picnic, where attendees dress in head-to-toe white. Read more…
Looking for fresh new colours to update your décor? From expressing your mood to creating a calming atmosphere, use Pantone’s Colour of the Year to bring a feeling of relaxation into your home. Read more…
Victoria is blessed with a wealth of small, independent restaurants, creative chefs, beautiful bakers, bold butchers and cheesemakers — in short, a food scene that’s vibrant and growing organically every day, literally from the ground up. Read more…
One needs look no further than the quintessential Canadian cocktail, the Caesar, for the perfect example of a savoury cocktail. But from smoky to herbal to vegetal, more foodie flavours are entering the bartender lexicon. Read more…
When you need to get away, really away, then wild and wondrous Port Renfrew surrounds you with forest, sea and as much serenity as you can handle. Join YAM on a getaway along a twisting ribbon of West Coast Highway, just two hours northwest of Victoria. Read more…
With great respect for the forest, this couple built their home on Denman Island, creating an eminently livable work of art. Designer Etienne de Villiers calls it a modern home that will stand the test of time to become an enduring classic. Read more…
With Mother’s Day approaching, YAM talks to four inspiring moms who have each experienced their own struggles and joys. They share their profound life lessons about unconditional love, and how they learned to let go and trust that voice of inner wisdom. Read more…
Beyond its undeniable stylishness, one of the most striking aspects of Jody and David Adelman’s new townhouse is how they’ve optimized the space. Smart modern design, perfect furniture picks and sleek custom built-ins mean this couple can live large in their small-scale home. Read more…
This “monster of the deep” and darling of sustainability-minded chefs is popping up on menus across the country. Unlike the ubiquitous baby squid imported from Asia, this eco-friendly option — found in B.C. waters — offers a fresh clean taste of the ocean. Read more…
Luxe Home Interiors sends positive message that “your home should be your favourite place in the world, no matter who you are or who you love,” in new commercial featuring a same-sex couple. Read more…
When it comes to wall trends, 2016 is a myth-busting year. Feature walls are out and so is the notion that small rooms need small patterns. So toss out your preconceptions and let’s look at what’s big in walls. Read more…
With no single agreed-upon rule book that will tell you how to keep your one-and-only body in optimal working condition, YAM has your go-to guide to stay in tiptop shape.
Read more…
We have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to Island libations, from vodka and gin, to local bubbly, to craft brews. Read more…
Eco design meets antique décor when a spectacular renovation by Victoria designer JC Scott transforms a cramped 1970s cottage into the elegant epitome of sustainable living. Read more…
Regal in chiffon and crystals, whimsical in florals or enigmatic in embroidered splendour, go wherever your fashion muse takes you this spring. Read more…
With no requirement to register birds in Victoria and a climate conducive to keeping poultry year round, local hen-trepreneurs talk about their pets with benefits. Read more…
A dramatic mountaintop home draws its design inspiration from the elements of nature — earth, air, fire and water. Read more…
When faced with the dilemma of buying a new condo versus renovating an older one, a Victoria couple proved that out-of-date can become spectacular in the hands of an innovative designer. Read more…
To say Renee Nault is a nerd misses a key attribute — she is a cool nerd, something altogether more interesting. From fantastical creatures to modern-day mermaids, the Victoria-based illustrator knows no limit to her artistic imagination. Read more…
During this holiday season of giving, YAM talks to some very inspirational people — including, yes, a real-life genie — who are passionate about paying it forward. We also discover why the spirit of giving benefits the giver just as much as the recipient. Read more…
When winter comes and you crave a relaxing escape but you still want to stay warm and cozy, B.C.’s West Coast offers rustically luxurious getaways where you can wile away the chilly days by the fire or storm-watch from your deck with a hot toddy in hand. Read more…
YAM visits Andreas Kunert and Naomi Zettl of Ancient Art of Stone, internationally acclaimed artists who take their inspiration directly from nature to create extraordinary works from an ancient, timeless material. Read more…
Local designer Tara Hurst and her husband Michael Zary restore a 1914 character home in Oak Bay, creating an elegant tribute to the style of the era and striking a beautiful balance between old and new. Read more…
Ethically minded clothing has evolved far from its clichéd origins of patchwork skirts and burlap overalls. Make your wardrobe an investment in your conscience as well as your style with these ethically minded local designers. Read more…
For a behind-the-scenes look at local style setters, YAM visits our fashion editor Janine Metcalfe and her ultra-creative husband L.J. Smith, who happen to live in one of Victoria’s most architecturally unique homes. Read more…
These thoughtful and playful renditions of classic cocktails from five inspired Victoria bartenders offer a great way to try a different take on an old favourite. They may just inspire you to get a little creative with your home bar. Read more…
This autumn, luxury is found in the details, with sumptuous capes and statement coats paired with sleek accessories. It’s your passport to arriving in sophisticated style, whether you’re travelling by land, air or sea. Read more…
