Tag: Vancouver

Ashley’s Mom-Approved List: Supporting Small, Female-Owned & Family-Friendly Brands

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

As a mom, I know how important it is to find products that are safe, sustainable, and thoughtfully made. That’s why I’m so excited to introduce Ashley’s Mom-Approved List—a curated selection of local, female-owned brands that I truly love. When you see the pink tick mark in-store, you’ll know that the product meets my standards for quality, sustainability, and supporting incredible women-led businesses.

For my first feature, I’m highlighting two small businesses that check all the boxes: Hunni’s and 6th Scent Candles.

Hunni’s – Feel-Good Fashion for Moms & More

Founded in 2004 by twin sisters Christie and Danielle Honeyford, Hunni’s has been bringing stylish, feel-good fashion to Langley for 20 years. With locations in Langley and Chilliwack, it’s a go-to boutique for pieces that are trendy, wearable, and perfect for busy moms who still want to look put-together.

Why I Love Shopping at Hunni’s

The staff at Hunni’s make every shopping experience a joy. They’re helpful without being pushy, giving you space to browse while still being available if you need advice. As someone who is a curvier girl (size 14-16), I appreciate that Hunni’s always has cute outfits that fit well and make me feel confident.

Mom-Approved Picks from Hunni’s

✔️ Miller Cuff Denim – These jeans are basically the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants in real life. They’re insanely comfortable, fit like a dream, and are guaranteed to be the comfiest jeans you’ll ever put on your body.

✔️ Rudy Dress – Flowy, flattering, and mom-friendly. It has plenty of room in the bust (because we know that matters!), pockets (yes, actual functional pockets!), and is a wardrobe staple for school drop-offs, brunch dates, and everything in between.

✔️ Cosmo Cardi – I affectionately call this my “Ms. Frizzle Cardi”, and it delights me every time I put it on. It’s cozy, colorful, and has just the right amount of whimsical charm to make every outfit feel a little more fun.

✔️ Ziggy Pants – Effortless, chic, and comfy. These pants look polished but feel like pajamas—so basically, they’re magic.

Bonus? Hunni’s also carries 6th Scent Candles, so you can shop both brands in one stop!

6th Scent Candles – Thoughtfully Made Scents for Your Home

Founded in 2016 by Al and her husband Tom, 6th Scent Candles is a soy candle company based in Langley, BC. Their passion is creating beautiful, non-toxic scents that make your home feel cozy and inviting.

Why I Love 6th Scent Candles

The scents from 6th Scent Candles are fresh without being overpowering, making them perfect for every room in the house. Plus, since they’re made responsibly with non-toxic ingredients, I feel good about burning them around my family, especially my daughter.

Mom-Approved Picks from 6th Scent Candles

✔️ White Tea & Ginger Candle – Light, fresh, and spa-like. Perfect for turning your home into a peaceful retreat.

✔️ Car Air Fresheners – Because let’s be real, between snacks, sports gear, and random surprises from the kids, the car needs a refresh.

✔️ Reed Diffuser (Watermelon Lemon) – A flame-free way to keep your house smelling amazing, which is a must when you’ve got little ones running around.

You can find 6th Scent Candles online, at Willowbrook Mall, and at Hunni’s!

Why These Brands Are on Ashley’s Mom-Approved List

✅ Locally Made – Supporting businesses in our community.
✅ Female-Owned – Uplifting incredible women-led brands.
✅ Good for You & Your Family – Safe, sustainable, and thoughtfully made.

Look for the pink tick mark in stores to find my top picks! I’m so excited to continue building Ashley’s Mom-Approved List and sharing more incredible small businesses with you.

Join the Conversation!

Have you shopped at Hunni’s or tried 6th Scent Candles? I’d love to hear about your favorite finds! Drop a comment below or tag me on Instagram @theashleyrhapsody. Let’s celebrate the incredible women behind these businesses together!

Follow me on Instagram: @theashleyrhapsody
Follow Hunni’s: @shophunnis
Follow 6th Scent Candles: @6thscentcandle

Experience the Thrill: Science World’s Extreme Sports Exhibit is Here!

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

Push Your Limits at Science World’s New Extreme Sports Exhibit!

If you’re looking for a way to experience the rush of extreme sports—without the scraped knees or broken bones—then you need to check out Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits, the newest exhibit at Science World! Running from January 31 to May 19, 2025, this action-packed experience invites visitors to test their skills, challenge their balance, and dive into the science behind some of the world’s most thrilling sports.

What to Expect at Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits

Presented by White Spot Restaurants, this exhibit isn’t just about watching—it’s about doing! You’ll get the chance to:

  • Test your balance on a high-line simulation
  • Try a parkour course and see if you have the agility of a pro
  • Grip the hanging wall to test your strength
  • Immerse yourself in a 360° virtual reality experience that puts you in the seat of a mountain biker tackling intense terrain
  • Learn the science behind the rush, from the role of adrenaline and dopamine to the physical and mental endurance of extreme athletes

This exhibit is perfect for adventure seekers, sports lovers, and anyone curious about what it takes to push human limits. Plus, it’s interactive, making it an exciting stop for families, friends, and solo explorers alike!

Why Science World is a Must-Visit Year-Round

While Extreme Sports is only here for a limited time, Science World offers endless opportunities for discovery all year long. This iconic Vancouver destination is packed with hands-on exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. From exploring the wonders of physics and chemistry to understanding the complexities of the human body, there’s always something new to experience.

  • The Eureka! Gallery lets kids and adults alike play with water, light, and motion in a hands-on environment.
  • BodyWorks takes you inside the human body to discover how we function and what keeps us healthy.
  • The Tinkering Space inspires creativity and problem-solving through engineering and design challenges.

And when you need a break, there’s even a Triple O’s inside for a delicious meal or snack—because science is best experienced on a full stomach!

Make the Most of Science World with a Membership

If you’re local to Vancouver, a Science World membership is one of the best investments you can make. With unlimited visits, exclusive member-only events, and discounts on guest tickets, OMNIMAX films, and at the gift shop, it’s the perfect way to keep the fun going all year. Whether you want to pop in for an afternoon or spend an entire day exploring, a membership lets you experience new exhibits and returning favorites as often as you’d like!

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re visiting Vancouver or lucky enough to live here, Science World is a must-see destination. Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits is only here until May 19, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill! Grab your tickets, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable day of learning and fun.

For more details and to plan your visit, head to scienceworld.ca!

10 Fantastic Spring Break Activities for Family Fun in Vancouver 2024!

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

If you’re like me, you’re gearing up for Spring Break with equal parts excitement and trepidation. “I’m bored” or endless requests for screen time can make even the most patient parent want to pull their hair out. But fear not!

I’ve got your back with a lineup of the top 10 things to do in Vancouver this Spring Break, guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained.

  1. FlyOver Canada: Get ready for an exhilarating virtual flight across Canada! Located at Canada Place, this immersive experience will have your kids feeling like they’re soaring above mountains, forests, and cities. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss! They are currently running two shows: The Rockies, and Hawaii
  2. WildPlay Maple Ridge: Are your little ones craving adventure? Head to WildPlay Maple Ridge for an adrenaline-pumping day of ziplining, climbing, and swinging through the treetops. It’s the perfect way to unleash their inner daredevils!
  3. Science World – Dream Tomorrow Today: Dive into the world of imagination and discovery at Science World’s latest exhibit, “Dream Tomorrow Today.” With hands-on activities and interactive displays, it’s a journey into creativity that will ignite your child’s curiosity.
  4. Greater Vancouver Zoo: Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Spend a day at the Greater Vancouver Zoo exploring habitats from around the world. From majestic giraffes to playful bears to even dinosaurs, there’s something to delight every animal lover in your family.
  5. Granville Island: Take a stroll through Granville Island and immerse yourselves in its vibrant atmosphere. From artisan shops to bustling markets, there’s no shortage of treasures to discover. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious eateries (our family loves Siegels Bagels and Lee’s Donuts) !

Now, let’s sprinkle some Easter magic into the mix with five more activities that will make your long weekend egg-stra special:

  1. Taves Farm: Hop on over to Taves Farm for some egg-citing Easter fun! Join in on egg hunts, take a tractor ride, and say hello to the adorable farm animals. It’s a day of farm-tastic adventures the whole family will love.
  2. Maan Farms: Get ready for a berry good time at Maan Farms! From and baby animals to Easter-themed activities, there’s plenty of farm-fresh fun to be had. And don’t forget to indulge in their delicious homemade treats!
  3. Loft Country in Langley: Saddle up for a Wild West adventure at Loft Country! With pony rides, petting zoos, and cowboy-themed performances, it’s a rootin’ tootin’ good time for little cowpokes and their families.
  4. Museum of Surrey: The Museum of Surrey is not merely a museum (though their museum is awesome), they are also full of kid friendly activities! From their indoor playground, to their LEGO exhibit, and their seasonal crafts and entertainment for Easter, the Museum of Surrey is a family favourite every year.
  5. Mainland Markets: Happening this month at Potters, Mainland Markets is our favourite spot to discover local brands, enjoy mouthwatering treats, and on March 30 they are hosting an indoor Easter Egg Hunt for only $6 (the market is free to attend).

So there you have it, folks – 10 fantastic Spring Break activities guaranteed to keep your kids entertained and your sanity intact. Because let’s face it, childhood should be fun for parents too! Get out there and make some unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Happy Spring Break! 🌸✨

Don’t miss out on the fun!

Experience the joy of exclusive giveaways and uncover family fun activities in Vancouver and the Fraser Valley with The Ashley Rhapsody. Sign up now to join our community!

Sign Up

Indoor (Free/Cheap) Play for Rainy Vancouver Days

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

It can be a lot of fun to throw on the muddy buddy and go play in the rain, but let’s also be real, I have yet to find an adult muddy buddy and standing out in the rain supervising gets old fast.⁣ SO I’m constantly compiling lists of fun indoor activities for those days I really don’t want fresh air.

☔️ Morgan Play Centre (Surrey, BC) : Between $5.99-$13.99

Morgan Play Centre is a great option for anyone in the South Surrey area. Lots of spaces for all ages, giant slides, and it’s located directly next to a Starbucks. Check it out here.

☔️ Toys R Us at the Willowbrook Mall (Langley, BC) : Free (for those with self-control)

Did you know that Toys R Us has little play stations all through the store? And PRO TIP: have your child go around and take pictures of things they want for their birthday/Christmas etc. and then you won’t be spending the whole trip fielding shopping requests. The Willowbrook Mall is also a pretty fun space (and they will be opening a new open-air section soon). ⁣Check them out here.

☔️ Public Libraries (All over YVR): Free

The library isn’t 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 the library anymore. Play structures, puzzles, story times and more. Check the Surrey Libraries website for times and events like story time and more.

⁣☔️ Oh My Land Club (Coquitlam, BC): $15-$20

This one is the most expensive on the list but most definitely worth every penny! Seriously! This place is a WONDERLAND! Do you ever walk into a place and think, “Wow! This was designed by a single white man without kids!” Well, this place is the complete opposite. I went with a friend of mine and her kiddos and every time we turned a corner we kept proclaiming, “They thought of EVERYTHING.” Water tables complete with long sleeve water-proof aprons, sensory bin rooms, sing-a-longs for the little ones, ball pit, rock climbing, baby space complete with nursing area, hand-washing stations… I’m telling you… worth every penny (for drop-in- their yearly passes are a bit nuts). For more info check them out here.

☔️ Tsawwassen Mills Mall (Tsawwassen, BC): Free (for those with self-control)

This is a great mall during the week because it’s pretty quiet and it’s a great big circle (so you can run that toddler until nap time). They also have a play structure in the middle to climb on, Mastermind Toys to visit (I set a timer for Suubs in the toys store 😜), an aquarium full of fish at the Outdoor World, and of course Stuff Riders! The Stuff Riders are $8.50-$12.50 for your first 10 minutes and then you get charged per minute, but it’s definitely a fun treat now and again.⁣ Check them out here.

☔️ Surrey Recreation Stay & Play (Surrey, BC): $3.75

This has been the greatest discovery thanks to a Dance Momma friend of mine. Stay and Play is only $3.75 and your kiddo gets a good two hours of gym time to run, bike, climb and PLAY. Parent supervision is required, check the Surrey Recreation website for times and locations.⁣ If you’re not in Surrey, be sure to check out the programs at the local recreation centres… because they’re awesome, and pretty cheap.

☔️ IKEA (Coquitlam & Richmond): Free (for those with self-control)

I mean, inexpensive food (kids meals range from $3.49-$4.99), toys to play with, and lots of space to walk and play. Always a win 🥇 ⁣

☔️ Museum of Surrey (Surrey, BC): FREE

We all know about my love for this place! It’s absolutely free and they constantly have special events happening, a great big indoor playground, nursing stations, and of course the museum! ⁣Click here for more details.

Do you have a favourite rainy day hangout? Let me know in the comments and follow for more fun around YVR 🎉⁣

2022 Family-Friendly Christmas Outings around YVR

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

It is no secret that anything Christmas related is my JAM! I love the smells, the treats, the songs… I can even withstand an immense amount of cold if it means I get to walk around and look at twinkle lights. So because I love Vancouver Christmas (and you) I have compiled my list of favourite Family-Friendly Christmas Outings around YVR.

Capilano Suspension Bridge- Canyon Lights: 

Where: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver, BC

When: November 19, 2022 – January 22, 2023

Park Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Tickets: 

Adult tickets: $62.95

Senior tickets: $57.95

Student tickets (18+): $49.95

Youth tickets (13-17): $34.95

Child tickets (6-12): $24.95

Drink hot chocolate as you wander through the glowing rainforest that is Canyon Lights. There’s something for everyone (unless you’re not into heights… then I would suggest you skip this one). This is a must-see for visitors to Vancouver, and BC Residents enjoy admission for one full year from the date of purchase for the price of one day’s regular admission. 

Burnaby Village Museum- Heritage Christmas: 

Where: 6501 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby, BC 

When: November 26-December 18, 2022

Monday-Friday, 1-5:30 pm*

Saturday-Sunday, 1-9 pm

*December 5, 1-4 pm

December 19, 2022-January 2, 2023

Daily, 1-9 pm

Closed December 24 and 25

Tickets:

Gate admission is free. 

Burnaby Village Museum is the sweetest little step back in time, and its Christmas events are that much more special. Scavenger hunts, live music, and visits from Father Christmas, you don’t want to miss this FREE event. 

Museum of Surrey:

Where: 17710 56a Ave, Surrey, BC

When: November 26, 2022- December 18, 2022

Kick Off event: November 25, 2022 1:00-4:00pm

Tickets:

FREE Event

Donations Accepted: While admission is free, MOS is collecting new, unopened toys and non-perishable food donations for the Cloverdale Community Hamper. Leave yours at the front desk before touring the trees.

I always love events at the Museum of Surrey. They always have crafts for the kiddos, this event will have a visit from Santa, and of course a viewing of all the Christmas trees decorated by local Cloverdale businesses. 

Vandusen Gardens- Festival of Lights:

Where: 5251 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia 

When: November 25, 2022- January 2, 2023

4:00 pm – 10:00 pm daily (Last entry 8:30 pm – 9:00 pm)

Tickets:

Tickets are not sold on sight:

Adult (19-64)- $21.00

Senior (65+): $15.50

Child (5-12): $11.00

Children 4 & under: FREE

This event always feels so magical. Make sure to bundle up for a beautiful stroll around 15 acres of over one million lights. And don’t worry, if you get chilly you can get cozy with warm beverages and snacks. This event is outdoors, rain or shine… I’d say snow but it’s Vancouver and rain feels far more likely.

Christmas Night Train:

Where: Bear Creek Park

When: December 1st-31st (6-9pm)

Tickets: $12.60 per person (children under 2 are free)

This event is super kiddo friendly; think, the kid version of Vandusen Gardens, with the added bonus of a Christmas train. Beautiful light displays, and pictures with Santa… who could ask for anything more? Santa Express happens as a separate event, so be sure to book tickets for the appropriate events. Check their website for more details.

Arts Nursery:

Where: 8940 192ST, Surrey, BC, Canada

When: Holiday Premiere- Saturday November 19th and November 20th 11am-4pm

Free Admission

Celebrate the Arts Nursery Seasonal Collections with hot chocolate in hand, live music, cookies, workshop demos, and of course shot holiday decor, gifts, greenery & plants. There will also be people and pet photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus on Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4th, 11am-4pm (by donation, proceeds going to Dhana Metta Animal Rescue.

Lights at Lafarge Lake : 

Where: Lafarge Lake

When: Kick-Off- Saturday, Nov. 26 from 5 – 8 p.m. at Town Centre Park

Tickets: Free Admission

This beautiful, free event is a great opportunity to take in the views at Lafarge Lake and of course, see all the light displays. I’ve only been once and I remember it being lovely and incredibly cold so bundle up.

Vancouver Christmas Market:

Where: Jack Poole Plaza-1055 Canada Place Vancouver, BC.

When: Nov 12 – 25: open 4 pm to 9:30 pm (Fr and Sat until 10:00 pm)

Nov 26 – Dec 23: open 11:30 am to 9:30 pm (Fr and Sat until 10:00 pm)

Dec 24: open 11:30 am to 6:00 pm

Tickets:

Kids 0-6: Free

Adult (18-64): $17.99-$21.99 (check dates online)

Youth (7-17): $9.99-$13.99 (check dates online)

Senior (65+): $14.99-$18.99 (check dates online)

Annual Pass: $35.99

Give me all the food and german drinks and sweets, the Vancouver Christmas Market will get you in all the feels! My fav is the carousel (I can’t wait to take little girl on it this year). Check out their website as they have more details about parking deals etc. 

Fly Over Christmas:

Where: 201 – 999 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1

When: November 7, 2022- December 31, 2022

Tickets:

Adult: $25-$33 (check dates online)

Children 12 and under: $10 off the adult price

Mainland Winter Market: 

Where: West Coast Gardens- 1420 172 St, Surrey, BC

When: Weekends, Nov 12-Dec 18

9am-5pm Saturdays

10am– 5pm Sundays

Tickets: 

VIP Tickets- $12.95

Pictures with Santa- $29.95

Food & Toy Drive Donations encouraged

I am super excited for this market and privileged to be one of their social media ambassadors. Come check out this beautiful market filled with local creator booths, food trucks, Santa photos, gift wrapping and even some local children’s book authors joining the market for readings. Check them out on social media for updates as each weekend has unique, special features to enjoy.

Bright Nights in Stanley Park: 

Where: Pipeline Road in Stanley Park 

When: December 1, 2022 to January 1, 2023

4pm to 10pm

Monday, December 5, Tuesday, December 6, and Sunday December 25

Tickets: By Donation

Bright Nights has been my longest running Christmas Tradition. I have gone with friends, students and their families, church groups, and most recently my sweet baby girl and my hubs. Though this year the Christmas Train will not be running, they will still have tons of light displays, food, drinks, entertainment, with all of the proceeds going towards the BC Professional Fire Fighters Burn Fund. 

Are you going to be indulging in holiday events this year? Let me know if you have a favourite Christmas event in YVR that I need to check out. 

Top 5 Fall Family Activities (that aren’t scary & won’t break the bank) around YVR

The Ashley RhapsodyLeave a comment

I love all that Fall has to offer and I also love the cutesy side of Halloween. I also love not spending all of my money trying to show my kid a good time, can I get an amen?  If you are looking for fun (not scary and not super costly) activities for your family this October, I have got you covered. 

Loft Country Farms

We visited Loft Country Farms for the first time this year and it was SO much fun! Honestly, I didn’t expect there would be so much to do and see, but we probably could have spent the whole day there. Pony rides, panning for gems, petting zoo, gourmet hot dogs and desserts, a western shootout, wagon rides, tractor rides, and of course the pumpkin patch. As a mom with a potty training 3 year old, I also really appreciated the cleanliness of their washrooms (let’s be real: this is something I appreciate with or without a kid lol). 

Online Pricing:
General Admission (Ages 3 and up) – $13.50 
Family Admission (2 parents and their children) – $54

They also have season passes available. 

Location: 2640 248 St, Langley, BC V4W 2R2

Laity Pumpkin Patch

It’s been a couple years since we have visited Laity Pumpkin Patch so we’re really excited to check it out again this year. 

Public Admission Rates

Weekend/Holiday Rate: $12.00 each (ages 3 and up) – incl. GST & ticket fees

Weekday Rate: $9.00 each (ages 3 and up) – incl. GST
(please note: Mon, Oct 10th and Fri, Oct 21st are holiday rates)

Ages 2 and under – Free (with paying adult)

South location: 12725 Laity St, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2P2

North location: 21145 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R9

Art Knapps Surrey:

This one was a cute little surprise! You can buy pumpkins, visit their candy story, ride their train, and even partake in some mini-golf! The train rides are only $3.50 a person, and run every half-hour. They do have some “scary-ish” decorations (my kiddo was not into the giant sparkly purple spider… but it was all pretty tame). 

Location: 4391 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3Z 1G6

Circus Osorio

Okay this is not fall specific, but a super fun outing around town this October. Tickets are $25 for adults, and each adult ticket comes with 2 free kids tickets (under 10). October 13, 2022 – October 17, 2022

Location: Coquitlam B.C. Coquitlam Centre – 2929 Barnet Highway, Coquitlam BC V3B 5R5

Arts Nursery Scarecrow Stroll: 

This is such a great FREE activity to enjoy with the kiddos (I mean, “Free” if you don’t buy yourself a ton of houseplants and pumpkins). 60+ Scarecrows to see, a pumpkin patch, and of course so many beautiful plants. We went during the week and there was an Ice Cream truck on site, but word on the street is the weekend has live music and food trucks. Open from 9:00am-6:00pm Mon-Sat, and 9am-5pm Sundays from Sep 24-Oct 31

Location: 8940 192nd Street, Surrey, BC, Canada, V4N 3W8

If you want to stay up to date on fun family activities around Greater Vancouver Area make sure to follow me on Instagram & TikTok @theashleyrhapsody