helen siwak, west coast luxury, luxury lifestyle, elevated living, publishers message, vancouver, bc, yvr

Helen Siwak: EIC & Publisher’s Message: Issue #33 – April 2025

As the season turns and longer days stretch toward golden evenings, there is a distinct sense of renewal in the air. On the Canadian West Coast, where ocean breezes carry the scent of blossoms and ambition, spring is not merely a season—it is an invitation.

This issue of Folio.YVR honours that call with stories that reflect the richness of our creative communities, the innovation that drives our industries, and the people whose passion continues to shape the cultural and social fabric of our region.

fred lee, helen siwak, west coast luxury, luxury lifestyle, elevated living, publishers message, vancouver, bc, yvr

We begin by shining a spotlight on the icons of culture and creativity. Fred Lee, Vancouver’s inimitable Man About Town, reflects on more than three decades at the heart of our city’s most memorable moments—always bringing people together with purpose and joy. ‘Showcase Pianos Presents‘ Angela Hewitt, the acclaimed virtuoso, who reminds us of the transformative power of music at its highest level.

Visual artist Kriss Munsya (Gallery Jones) takes us on a journey through memory and identity, offering a deeply personal and visually arresting interpretation of self and society. At the Vancouver Art Gallery, ‘Riopelle: Crossroads in Time’ honours one of Canada’s most visionary modern artists with a sweeping retrospective that invites reflection on legacy and the power of reinvention.

aleem kassam, helen siwak, west coast luxury, luxury lifestyle, elevated living, publishers message, vancouver, bc, yvr

Our CELEBRATE section features include The AVK Wedding—Aleem Kassam and Victor Kazakov— at Phantom Creek Estates in Oliver, BC, which was not only a deeply personal expression of their bond, but also a stunning demonstration of what happens when design, style, and intention converge.

For those seeking romantic backdrops, Hatley Park stands as one of Western Canada’s most spectacular wedding venues—a place where historic grandeur and natural splendour meet with poetic harmony.

hatley castle, helen siwak, west coast luxury, luxury lifestyle, elevated living, publishers message, vancouver, bc, yvr

In lifestyle and luxury, we explore experiences that inspire and captivate. The Tai Pan Penthouse Suite at the Metropolitan Hotel Vancouver offers a new benchmark in elevated city escapes, with panoramic views and sophisticated design that reflect Vancouver’s cosmopolitan charm. At Diva at the Met, guests enjoy a culinary approach that is both refined and conscious, where contemporary plant-based creations meet impeccable service.

From the BLOSSOM TIME Collection by Swatch to the artful Quasar Series by Colibri, and the debut of the Porsche Taycan GTS, we celebrate the objects that enhance our days with elegance and meaning. Range Rover’s The London Collection reveals a bold step into fashion, reimagining the brand’s identity with a tailored, sartorial twist. And for aficionados of fine watchmaking, Watches and Wonders 2025 reminds us that horological marvels—many found right here in Vancouver—continue to define time with artistry and precision.

As we look ahead to a season of warmth and prosperity, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who make our city such an extraordinary place to live. To the artists, entrepreneurs, designers, and visionaries featured in this issue—thank you. Your contributions make Vancouver a place where culture thrives, excellence is within reach, and life is lived with style and substance.

Author Profile

Helen Siwak, Luxury Lifestyle Observer: Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].