If you’re ever in need of dining inspiration, a new local event to check out, or just a feel-good story told through food, Vanessa Giles, aka @foodiegirlvee, has you covered. From hidden gem cafés to winery dining with lake views, Vanessa’s content brings Kelowna’s culinary and community experiences to life with warmth, personality, and serious foodie flair.

Originally from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Vanessa and her husband had long been drawn to the Okanagan's laid-back lifestyle, warm weather, and natural beauty. After welcoming their second child during the pandemic, the family made the leap and relocated to Kelowna in 2021. Today, she’s raising three little ones in one of Canada’s most vibrant and scenic communities, and embracing it all with a camera (and coffee) in hand.

Out for a bite or lakeside paddle, Vanessa brings her love for Kelowna into every post. Her background as a Certified Dental Assistant with social media experience sparked her interest in digital marketing. That passion, combined with her long-time habit of snapping food photos “just for fun,” evolved into a fully fledged blog and Instagram presence by August 2023. "A friend gave me the gentle nudge I needed to start my own food blog to practice and build my skills. Since I was already taking photos and capturing content for fun, I decided to use Instagram as my creative playground."

Food, family, and movement fuel her life and her content. Vanessa is often out and about exploring with her kids, paddleboarding, running (she recently completed her first half marathon!), or spending time in the kitchen trying new recipes and recreating traditional Filipino dishes. “Movement is my therapy,” she shares, “but food is how I connect with my culture, my community, and my creativity.”

Vanessa’s joyful curiosity drives her to try new restaurants, visit local markets, and attend events all across the Okanagan Valley. “I love highlighting these experiences and telling their stories,” she says. “It’s my way of showing others just how much Kelowna has to offer.”

Her top recommendations for first-time visitors?

• Sprout Bread: “A chill downtown hangout with the best baked goods—perfect for a coffee date before a lakeside stroll.”
• BNA Brewing + BNA Burger: “A Kelowna classic. Book a bowling lane, grab a Purple Rain Sour, and don’t miss the smash burgers with sharp cheddar queso.”
• CedarCreek Estate Winery: “Home Block is our go-to date night spot. We’ve been wine members since 2015, and the food and views never disappoint.”

And her local tip? “Bring an empty suitcase for wine! Book a wine tour, check the weather, and absolutely get a hike in while you’re here—there’s no shortage of scenic trails to explore.”

To follow Vanessa’s foodie finds, family adventures, and Kelowna favourites, find her on Instagram and TikTok at @foodiegirlvee. Let’s #exploreKelowna, one bite at a time.