Residents and employees at Tapestry at Arbutus Walk were treated to an opulent, red carpet evening recently to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of this special and unique community, Tapestry’s very first seniors’ community located in a wonderfully vibrant and inclusive neighbourhood.

Tapestry leaders and employees pulled out all the stops to organize a lavish celebratory event complete with red carpet entrances, a bubbly toast, a photo booth, a live harp player, and a delicious and specially curated dinner.

General Manager Danielle McQueen says her favourite part of the evening was seeing how all the planning came together for a very special event. “To see the collaboration across all departments – from the red carpet provided by the Wellness team, to maintenance hanging decorations, to one of our cooks taking on the role of event photographer, to the front desk staff who folded the napkins – adding those unique touches was what really made the event,” she says. “Our residents said they couldn’t believe the Restaurant they dine in regularly had been transformed into a magical celebratory venue!”

Of the more than 80 people who attended the event, most wore the colour green to represent the 20^th anniversary gemstone emerald, and there were many touches of green in the décor including in-house made sugar flowers adorning the dessert, and individual keepsake broaches given to each diner.

“Everyone dressed for the special occasion and they looked like a million bucks,” Danielle adds. “One resident said she hadn’t dressed up like that in four years and it felt really good to be able to do that,” she adds.

A very special guest at the event was Jean, who has lived at Tapestry at Arbutus Walk for the entire 20 years. She moved in when in her 80s and is still thriving at the age of 105!

The celebration dinner featured gourmet dishes planned and prepared by Tapestry’s talented culinary team featuring choices like the Prawn Emerald Goddess Salad, Duck à l’Orange, and Croquembouche (cream puffs) for dessert.

Some residents invited friends and family members to join them for this special celebration. The family of one of our newer residents was so impressed with the event, they emailed Danielle first thing the next morning. Dianne, the daughter of Tapestry resident Enny, wrote, “The food was delicious, and all the staff were so kind and welcoming. There is always such a warm atmosphere, and last night it was even more so! All the details right down to the “emerald “ brooches made the evening even more special.”

As in most communities, it is the people who truly make the difference, and Danielle noted this when addressing the residents in her formal remarks, “I don’t know if you realize how much you inspire all of us with your incredible life experiences and your continued zest for life. We have had the very unique opportunity and privilege to engage with you on this phase of your life’s journey.”

Tapestry wouldn’t be the warm and welcoming place it is to live without our dedicated and caring employees. At the event, the community also celebrated three employees who have worked at this location for 20 years: Tara Sharma and Samija Djuric, both Housekeepers, and Mags Ryan, Restaurant Supervisor.

For all of us at Tapestry, it’s so rewarding to look back on our 20-year journey at this location and to mark other important “firsts” with the launch of Tapestry retirement communities.

With the opening of Tapestry at Arbutus Walk, we established a modern template for independent living for seniors based on a model of hospitality with a unique focus on wellness and active aging to inspire people to continue to live independently and to pursue their life’s purpose and passion. We also introduced a unique culinary model that emphasized choice and flexibility in dining.

After it was built, Tapestry at Arbutus Walk was recognized with an award from the Canadian Home Builder’s Association for its progressive ideas, compelling design, superior construction and commitment to redefine seniors’ living by offering residents lifestyle choices tailored to their individual needs and preferences. And we’ve won many other industry awards since, including multiple Beacon Awards recognizing the community’s commitment to wellness.

Tapestry now has four communities – two in Vancouver, one in Victoria, and one in Toronto, Ontario. All are authentically local but share the unique Tapestry “feeling” inspired by the spirit and energy of our residents and our employees’ commitment to create memorable moments for all.

If you’re ready to consider a move to retirement living, now is the perfect time. If you move into one of our communities before December 31, 2023 you’ll receive a $5,000 incentive. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour and complimentary lunch.