Posts Tagged ‘Surrey shopping’

Our Sales Team Talks About the Community

Friday, March 11th, 2011

Our sales team can’t quite get over how rapidly the area around Glenmore and Highland Park has transformed into a vibrant and accessible neighbourhood.

Connie, one of our sales representatives at Glenmore, recently returned from her maternity leave, and she was quite struck by the community’s development in the past year: “Everything is so close by and accessible. It’s like being downtown, but it’s much more peaceful.”

Amanda and Victoria, sales representatives from Glenmore and Highland Park respectively, are equally taken by the area’s urban vibe.

“When I think back to 2008 when I first started working out here, I am absolutely amazed as to the amount of development, both commercial and residential,” comments Victoria. “This area has not only developed, but has been transformed into a beautiful community, rich with amenities, home and shopping.”

“With the amount stores and amenities nearby, it’s become the suburbia Yaletown,” remarks Amanda.

The feedback our team has received from potential homeowners like you has been overwhelmingly positive as well.

People continue to comment that they really appreciate the fact that they can walk across the street and get a cup of coffee. And still have access to wonderful schools and beautiful parkways.

Then there are, of course, the homes.

We’re pretty fond of the two-bedroom plus den homes now available at Glenmore They’re in a great location and have spacious yards. And clearly you are too, only a handful remains.

The three-bedroom B1 plan at Highland Park has also been much admired. The open-concept layout and vaulted ceilings create a spacious, single-family home feel. And the master ensuite features a full five-piece bathroom.

Most of all, you appreciate the fact that our finishings are a representation of the area itself – a blend of “traditional living with a modern twist.” Thanks for noticing.

It is something about the area that captivated us right away, and prompted us to move on this location.

Keep checking in, we will continue to keep you up-to-date about this burgeoning community. And our sales team is always available to chat about the neighbourhood.

Mommy and Me

Thursday, October 14th, 2010

Places to Go and Things To Do with Your Little One(s)

For moms who want to get out and live life in their community and have fun while raising their children it doesn’t get better than this.

South Surrey is a hub of activity for moms in the know, and the burgeoning neighbourhood around Glenmore and Highland Park is only adding to this vibrant community for mommies.

If story time is a special time in your household you’ll love Kidsbooks in South Surrey. The bookstore often hosts author visits from a variety of popular children’s authors, and next week is no different. On October 20th, Kidsbooks welcomes Blinky to the Rescue’s illustrator/author (and BC-native) Ashley Spires.  Learn even more about the epic space adventures of Blinky the cat and his co-pilot Ted!

Situated on 32nd Avenue, Babycheeks Boutique promises to be a shopping treat for you and your little ones. The boutique is filled with all sorts of beautiful children’s clothes and accessories, and is a host to a variety of child-friendly activities, from reading workshops to song and craft time to play dates with the likes of Cinderella and Ariel. Introduce your little guy or gal to some new playmates and mingle with other moms in the area.

A 10-minute drive from Glenmore and Highland Park, the Bell Performing Arts Centre in South Surrey is host to numerous events for both young and old. This month, it’s all about the kids. Described as a Halloween musical adventure for the entire family, The Great Big Boo! comes to the Bell Centre on October 23rd. And this week, the Centre welcomes acclaimed children’s author Robert Munsch on his Love You Forever Tour.  Take a moment to recite those beloved words “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always” together with your tot.

Of course, if you’re looking to pursue something a little more active there is always Mommy & Me Bowling at Scottsdale Lanes. Pre-schooler and adult team up costs $60 and runs for six weeks. Or you can participate in a family and youth night at Tong Louie Family YMCA.

Spending quality time getting to know other moms who share the same interests as you is always important too. There are a few Mommy & Me groups in the South Surrey/White Rock area to help you do just. The members-only clubs aim to create lasting friendships for parents as well as their children through meet ups and play dates to places like coffee shops, beaches, the aquarium and other areas over the Lower Mainland. You’ll want to sign up as a member to get more information.

A place to live, a place to belong, a place to grow. It’s all here at Glenmore and Highland Park.

A Day in the Life at Glenmore & Highland Park

Friday, July 16th, 2010

We keep talking about how much we love the Morgan Heights area of South Surrey – it’s got style and culture; it’s near parks and recreation; it’s a fun place for kids, but there are still plenty of amenities to occupy the adults too.

But like we said, we keep talking, so this time around, we thought we’d show you what a fantastic place this can be. A photo snapshot of a day in the life at Glenmore & Highland Park in Morgan Heights, if you will.


Waking up you will be greeted by lush landscaping, and carefully designed arbours. The well-manicured lawns and shrubs are yours to stroll though each morning as you head to the gym.  It wouldn’t be a productive day without hitting the gym first. Fortunately, the Clubhouse for Glenmore & Highland Park owners includes a workout room with weights, treadmills, elliptical trainers and more, just minutes from your front door.

A job well done deserves to be acknowledged. After sweating it out at the gym, heading to Moka House at Grandview corners (a quick 5 minute walk from your front door) for a fresh coffee or iced latte is just the pick-me-up you deserve.   Lap up the sunshine or settle into a book in the square at Grandview Corners.  Just remembered you need a few last-minute items for your son’s birthday party in the afternoon? Don’t panic.  Indigo books and Hallmark are among the many stores in Grandview Corners that are poised to make life as convenient as possible.  H&M, Jack & Jill, Please Mum, RW&Co, Stirling Shoes, Smart Set, & Tommy Hilfiger, not to mention banks, dentists, doctors, salons, cafes, and electronics stores – they’re all just across the street!

Picking up birthday cupcakes for the party – and maybe a frosty treat for yourself as well – is just as simple. Living in the suburbs doesn’t have to be about big chains and outlet stores. Boutique shops are part of the culture and appeal of living at Glenmore & Highland Park. But being close to nature is also part of life in this lively neighbourhood.

A bunny hopping across your path on your leisurely stroll back home is just one more thing to smile about.   It’s nice to feel at ease. Planning parties of any kind, can be a bit of hassle. It’s hard to find a suitable venue, and it can get expensive. Fortunately for Glenmore & Highland Park owners, there is a great clubhouse that residents can book. You can easily set up and host your son’s birthday here, and nip home quickly if you’ve accidentally left something behind.  You’ll love sitting poolside.  And the kids will have a riot splashing in the pool at the party.

You love spending time with the kids, but you also want to make sure that you get some time for pampering yourself. A ten minute walk from your front door to the shops at Morgan Crossing, you can actually indulge yourself without having to devote a full day at the spa. Get a quick pedicure at Pure Nail Bar.  Then visit the fabulous ladies at Blo Blow Dry salon to get your hair done before you head out for dinner.  Call the neighbourhood babysitter, and then head for a fun-filled night at South Surrey’s latest hotspot, ULounge.  You and your hubby can enjoy dinner for two, followed by a few after-dinner cocktails. It’s a great locale for a sophisticated and upbeat nightcap.

A jam-packed day, but it’s all within reach for homeowners at Glenmore & Highland park in Morgan Heights, South Surrey.

Who would have thought it? How South Surrey is a paradise for the foodie who only eats local produce.

Saturday, June 19th, 2010

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication ~ Leonardo da Vinci

Local, sustainable, organic… Now, more than ever, we care what we eat and where our food comes from.

But way before it was trendy to shop local, the natural habitat of South Surrey’s locavores was Mary’s Garden. Back when Jack and Mary Nootebos started farming they sold their fresh produce from a tiny vegetable stand. Drivers would honk their horns to call Mary back from the fields.

That was over 40 years ago and the farm shop has evolved into a major space supplying South Surrey’s residents.

These days they are only one of a number of committed producers in the area surrounding the Morgan Heights communities of Highland Park and Glenmore. It really is a foodie haven out here.

Hazelmere Organics have long been the port of call for Vancouver’s fine dining restaurants devoted to searching out the best fruits and vegetables grown with a loving hand and complete respect for the land.

But you don’t have to travel to the city to taste the fruits of Hazelmere’s labours: locals can have their weekly orders ready for pick up at the farm, or delivered straight to their door.

Order your fresh blueberries early, or get ready to be disappointed: Missing Goat Farm works on a first come, first serve basis for their annual berry harvest. They also grow garlic and sell homemade jams and chutneys.

But surely the most original spin on the whole u-pick concept must go to Colebrook Trout Farm where dinner is only a tug on the line away. Rods and bait are provided (serious anglers may use their own poles) and your catch will cost you $5 a fish.

In Morgan Heights, buying local couldn’t be simpler. It’s a growing community.

Full-Time Beach Access From Morgan Heights

Wednesday, June 9th, 2010

At South Surrey’s Morgan Heights, you can escape to your own seaside getaway in a matter of minutes.

If you’ve lived in the lower mainland for any length of time, you know White Rock is a great place to be in the summertime (and for those of you who are new to the area, take note). That means Morgan Heights, located minutes from White Rock beach, is not only a great a locale for your everyday needs – it’s also a short trip from one of the best beach days in the area.

White Rock beach is accessible by the C52 Seaside/White Rock Centre shuttle. But you may want to rev up your 64 Ford Mustang instead. It seems the city’s warm weather and easy disposition attracts many vintage car enthusiasts, and you’ll see various classics cruising the town’s main strip all summer long.

But the best way to take in White Rock’s scenic beaches is on foot. White Rock’s 2.5 kilometre long beach promenade connects the community’s east and west beaches together. As you walk its length, you’ll breathe fresh sea air all the while, and enjoy an iconic, nostalgic seaside feel. The promenade draws visitors from downtown Vancouver, the tri-cities and the neighbouring U.S. alike. Families with strollers, young couples and youths – all out to enjoy the beauty of this strip. Pause to appreciate the view of Mount Baker and the San Juan islands before heading to the historic white rock.

The rock, from which the city derives its name, lies along the beach beside the promenade. It is, in fact, a glacial erratic left behind from the last ice age, but the rock is also central to a mythological tale about the beginnings of White Rock’s Semiahmoo tribe. (White Rock/South Surrey has a rich past worth learning about, if you’re so inclined.)

Of course, a day by the beach wouldn’t be a day by the beach without the feel of wet sand sifting through your toes and a refreshing dip in the water. The bay’s protected waters are safe for swimming and kayaking. And when the tide is out, there is plenty of exploring to be done in the tidal pools.

Parallel to the sea runs Marine Drive – White Rock’s main strip for funky boutique shops, bustling bistros and fine restaurants. After a day at the beach, you’re sure to feel a little peckish, so take some time check out what’s on offer. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to some homemade ice cream at Seaside Scoops Ice Cream Café or indulge in a fine dining experience complete with a bottle of robust cabernet sauvignon at Cielo’s Tapas and Oyster Bar, you’ll have no trouble satisfying your palate here.

Wrap up the day with one last stroll along the promenade to White Rock’s historic pier. Dating back to the 1920s, White Rock Pier features a boat launch and 1,559 feet of boardwalk. The Pier underwent restoration about 20 years ago, and still serves as a Canada Customs point of entry for small boats. It is the perfect vantage point to watch a summer sunset.

Clearly, there’s plenty to do in the summer at White Rock. And as a resident at Morgan Heights, you can access it all.

With new boutique stores setting up, the ’burbs are the new cool hoods

Wednesday, May 5th, 2010

Head into the city no more.

Where once the ’burbs offered nothing but mall shopping, White Rock/South Surrey is enjoying a dramatic proliferation of boutique stores.

These specialty stores near the sea have been quietly building up a reputation that’s caught the eye of big city types. Even the experts are giving it props as a bone fide style hood – and the people living and working know something’s happening here too.

Retail therapy requires fuel: a serious shopper cannot risk a low blood sugar episode in the middle of picking the perfect pair of shoes.

A pre-shop stamina stop at White Rock’s famous beach-side Fieldstone Artisan Breads – where the only decision is whether to indulge in one of their famous cinnamon buns or plump for the protein in a homemade delicious quiche – is most definitely in order. Or grab a coffee (and a treat) at Moka House, part of the prolific Grandview Corners shopping district nearby, or give way to your passion for Cupcakes or go the full hog, literally, at the Memphis Blues Barbeque House.

Suitably fortified, it’s time for some real shopping. Head straight to Grandview Corners’ Ambiente store for brands such as Fruits & Passion biodegradable hand soap and fab Reisenthal designer bags, before trying to snag a pair of Jimmy Choo’s at H&M or a designer hit from BCBG Max Azria. For the Jamie Oliver wannabe, Kitchen Therapy is a must-visit store for every type of kitchen gadget.

At Morgan Heights and the growing communities of Glenmore and Highland Park, savvy shoppers find themselves living in the midst of a robust retail landscape.

Shop ‘til you drop – right on your own doorstep.