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Darcy Nybo
The Silverbacks at Thornhaven
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Darcy Nybo
Thornhaven
Darcy Nybo enjoys taking her dad on winery outings that are fun and accessible.
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Darcy Nybo
Fun on the Patio
Giving guests a little something extra has proven to be a great way to build loyalty and spread the word about your winery and wines. Wineries like Tinhorn Creek, CedarCreek and Mission Hill have been entertaining their customers with outdoor concerts for years now. Not everyone has the space or the budget to play host to the likes of the Rodeo Kings, Jim Cuddy (Blue Rodeo), and Leann Rimes, but there are other ways to add a little extra something to your guests’ winery experience and keep them around a little longer.
Ian MacDonald, President of Liquidity Wines outside of Okanagan Falls uses art to keep their clientele happy. “We staged an Artist Lecture Series on consecutive Saturdays in September in 2015. We invited some of Canada’s top artists to speak about their work, influences, techniques, new body of work, etc. I have a strong interest in art and we underwrite these things as a way to support the arts and to give back to the community.”
Thornhaven Estates of Bottleneck Drive in Summerland has added music and a picnic lunch to keep fans of their wine around a little longer. The gorgeous view also helps. Their “Music on the Mountain” series ranges from Karaoke to Okanagan talent like the Silverbacks and Cod Gone Wild. A day on the patio is a breeze here, literally. Simply head into the wine shop, find your favourite wine, and then let them know you’d like to drink it on the patio. They supply the glasses, you buy the wine. “It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours with friends and family,” said one guest. “It’s also wheelchair accessible, which makes it easy for those with mobility issues to come enjoy the wine and music.”
There are several other wineries that have added a little something to their winery experience for their customers. Hester Creek in Oliver has music on the patio on Saturdays, as well as barbeque lunches and cooking classes. Bench 1775 in Naramata has Yoga, as does Kelowna’s House of Rose winery. They also have added Grape Stomping Parties to kick things up a notch. Over in Lake Country, Ex Nihilo hosts everything from live music to art shows throughout the year.
Whatever you choose, whether it be art, music, stomping grapes or downward dog, those of like minds are sure to come and enjoy what you have to offer.