At the intersection of Indigenous heritage and craft beverage innovation, Heartberry Soda is redefining the soda experience. Rooted in traditional Indigenous knowledge and sustainable foraging practices, this unique beverage company creates low-sugar, low-calorie sodas infused with the natural flavors of wild plants. Each small-batch creation reflects the cultural richness of the land while offering a refreshing, nutrient-rich alternative to mainstream sodas.

Founded by Nadine Jopson, Heartberry Soda is more than just a beverage—it's a celebration of Indigenous traditions and a commitment to ethical harvesting. The sodas feature real fruit and wild-foraged ingredients whenever possible, honoring the natural gifts of the land while respecting traditional knowledge passed down through generations. The packaging also incorporates translations of key ingredients, further reinforcing the connection between language, culture, and the environment.

Jopson’s journey into craft soda brewing was sparked during the pandemic while participating in hide-tanning classes that used natural materials like bark and minerals. This hands-on experience deepened her understanding of native plants and their uses, inspiring her to explore plant-based medicines and infuse their healing properties into handcrafted sodas. Today, Heartberry Soda is not just about great flavors, but also about honoring Indigenous traditions, respecting the land, and preserving ancestral knowledge.

Heartberry Soda is one of the many generous contributors to the Rotary Club of New Westminster’s 5th Annual Bevies & Bites event, joining fellow beverage vendor Pacific Breeze Winery in supporting this community initiative. The event, set for February 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM, is a FUNdraiser dedicated to supporting local food programs, ensuring no one in the community goes hungry.

Attendees at Bevies & Bites will have the opportunity to sample Heartberry Soda’s innovative flavors, which are designed for both sober-curious individuals and those looking for a low-sugar cocktail mixer. The event is a perfect setting to experience these wild-foraged, plant-based sodas while also enjoying a variety of delicious food and drinks from other local vendors.

Heartberry Soda isn’t just about providing an alternative to mainstream sugary drinks—it’s about creating a product that resonates with Indigenous communities and beyond. Given the high prevalence of diabetes in many Indigenous populations, the brand prioritizes low-sugar, health-conscious recipes while still delivering bold, natural flavors.

By supporting Bevies & Bites, Heartberry Soda is continuing its mission to uplift community initiatives while introducing more people to the beauty of ethically harvested, Indigenous-inspired beverages. Guests at the event will not only get a taste of Heartberry Soda’s refreshing, nutrient-rich flavors, but they’ll also be supporting a cause that helps provide food security for those in need.

The Rotary Club of New Westminster’s 5th Annual Bevies & Bites event is shaping up to be a must-attend experience for food and drink lovers. Hosted at Royal City Centre, the event will showcase a wide range of local beverage vendors including Granville Island Brewing Co., Yellow Dog, Steel & Oak, Red Truck, and many more. Attendees can also enjoy delicious bites from Freshslice Pizza, Dan’s Diner, White Spot, Eatfitco, Vadapav Mirchi by Geeta, and Bak’d Cookies.

Beyond food and drinks, the evening will feature a 50/50 draw, a silent auction, and a chance to mingle with fellow community members, all while supporting a meaningful cause. Each ticket includes beverage and food tastings, along with a souvenir tasting glass to remember the night.

Tickets are available online, with an option to purchase without fees by contacting [email protected].

With Heartberry Soda and Pacific Breeze Winery among the standout vendors, Bevies & Bites is set to be a night of exceptional flavors and community spirit. Whether you’re looking to sample unique Indigenous-inspired sodas, handcrafted small-batch wines, or locally brewed craft beers, this event offers a little something for everyone—all while giving back to a great cause.

From the wild-foraged flavors of Heartberry Soda to the award-winning wines of Pacific Breeze, Bevies & Bites celebrates local craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and community generosity.

Raise a glass, savor the flavors, and support a great cause at the 5th Annual Bevies & Bites!