For our second installment, we’ve teamed up with Alison Page for a tour de Gastown that will have you drooling all over yourself. When she isn’t tending to plants or hanging with the cat, she’s eating her way through the city, and this week, we’re along for the bite!
How did you get into photography?
I took a communications technology class in high school and borrowed my parent’s Pentax film camera for our photography assignment. Having sparked an interest in being behind the lens, I asked for my first digital camera at graduation. Since then, summers spent at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre have helped drive my passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world. I’ve tried to integrate photography into my studies, but it’s never quite fulfilled my love for the medium.
Where does the love of plants come from?
My parents, aunts, uncles, and grandparents, all have/had green thumbs. I grew up around cherished houseplants that were almost like family members, and flower and vegetable gardens that rapidly overtook the patch of grass I played on in our back (and front) yard as a child. When I was 8 or 9 my mom gave me my own little corner of dirt in the garden, but I didn’t start to appreciate it until I moved away and had a place of my own. When I moved out, I started my own houseplant collection and have been learning and experimenting ever since …
Where do you find inspiration?
My favorite shop to gather inspiration for photo shoots and lifestyle is Old Faithful. I love flipping through their curated selection of magazines and books, housewares, and snacks. I draw inspiration from just being in the shop – with its exposed bricks, wood beams and furnishings. And there’s always great conversation to be had with the creative, kind and inspiring people who work there.
Alison’s passions include plants and her cat, Rohe Boat Page
Best place to window shop (or spend some hard earned cash)?
I buy most of my staples at Oak & Fort. I love the neat, unique shapes that they create with neutrals and my new favorite (pun appreciated) is Nouvelle Nouvelle!
How about when you need a jolt of caffeine?
When I need a little extra help, I always hit either Revolver or Timbertrain. Timbertrain’s Mochas are one of my favorites, not too sweet, not to bitter. Juuuuuust right.
As a foodie, where do you head for a culinary adventure?
EVERYWHERE! From what you will see in my posts for @mygastown this week, I love, love, LOVE to eat! Besides photography, eating and drinking beer are my favorite hobbies. It’s about getting to know people in the community over food and drink, and Vancouver’s neighbourhoods are FULL of interesting people doing exciting things!
And finally, to celebrate a job well done?
Anywhere that serves local craft beer, I’m there! Cork & Fin, Six Acres and Pourhouse are great spots for local beer! If I’m craving a cocktail, I’ll hit Notturno or The Diamond!
We are so thankful to Alison for offering to take us on a food-focused tour of the hood. She’s in the drivers seat this week on our Instagram feed @MyGastown with images of her fave spots. You can find / follow Alison on Instagram @alisonmpage.
We’ll have our next profile up in February, so be sure to check back for more. And if you’re an insider with a unique perspective on the neighbourhood, head to our Instagram feed at @MyGastown, tag your photos, and you might hear from us!
