As the 2020 Shipyards Night Market schedule starts again on May 1st we are excited for this time of year as we head into weekly markets down at the waterfront in Lower Lonsdale and weekends filled with outdoor concerts and events. Many of these happenings have food trucks or mobile stores that sell various products, however you have likely never seen a mobile flower truck. Which also doubles as a bar for cocktails.
Sophie’s Flower Pedals provides consulting about flower arrangements and also sells flowers at local North Vancouver events using her mobile flower boutique. If you think about it, slowing down a bit to stop and smell the flowers is something that we all talk about and truly is good for mental health. Having this mobile boutique at any outdoor spring and summer event is definitely a win. Keep in mind as well that aromas are natural and scents are not, when enjoying flowers it’s the aroma that we all love. Similar to peeling an orange.
We had the privilege to chat with Tanya Montalbano who is the owner and lead florist to get to know her and more about the business for our readers.
How did the business get started and what do you like about operating here in North Vancouver?
I made the move to North Vancouver 6 years ago from downtown and love the real sense of community, not to mention it has been ideal for raising my two little ones. I created Sophie’s Flower Pedals (Sophie is my daughter) on my bike powered mobile Flower Boutique out of a desire to become a community based entrepreneur, a need to be creative and pure passion for everything flower related. When I decided to start my own company I wanted to pull from my background in the film, travel and cosmetics industries and create something fun and interactive.
What are some previous and upcoming events that you will be attending in North Vancouver?
I have set up my mobile flower cart at markets like Shipyards Night Market and been featured at Dinner on the Pier and various cafes and shops in the Lolo area. I am excited to tell you about a special collaboration we are doing with Capilano Mall for Mother’s Day. We will have a full variety of special blooms on our new Flower Truck May 9th!
You have the first mobile flower truck in the area, what inspired you to start the concept?
I started out with the Flower Cart with the “Build your own Bouquet” Flower Bar, the response was always positive as it’s fun and clients get to pick the blooms they love the most. I quickly realized something more mobile that could carry more of a selection would be better so I found a Japanese Mini Truck and got started getting it ready for the 2020 season! I am half Japanese and have always loved these little imports so it was a no brainer when selecting the perfect vehicle.
What are some of the more popular flower types and arrangements these days?
Everyone always loves dalias, there are so many varieties and the shades are gorgeous. I also love wildflowers for their loose feel.
In your spare time outside of running the business what do you do for activities?
I have a 7 year old and 4 year old so there is never a dull moment! We hit the trails all the time, love skiing and whenever we can get a sitter we hit up Shipyards District for some cocktails or head downtown for a night out.
Is there anything else you might want our readers to know about you or your business?
I love setting up our Pop-up Flower Shops around the city but you may not know I also create floral designs for wedding and corporate events. We also host “Flower Parties” for all types of celebrations including kids (ages 5+) birthdays. I bring all the supplies and fresh flowers and teach people how to create their own masterpieces. These have been great for work events and bridal parties.
New for 2020 we are introducing our Flower Truck and Mobile Bar. Our cute pink mini flower truck is a fun and unique décor feature for all special events and specifically designed for every client. It’s also perfect as a mobile bar for cocktail hour, how fun would it be set up at your next party?
For more information visit their website and connect with them using social media on Instagram and Facebook. For customer service or sales related inquires email hello@sophiesflowerpedals.ca or call 604.202.0880.
