Party On, Planners!

by Vanessa Day | Nov 27, 2023 | Cowichan Valley, Transportation

Party On, Planners!

Hey party planners! It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And it’s time to plan the office Christmas party. Did that land on your desk? Just another “To Do” rapidly making its way to the top of the list?

Not to worry! The Cowichan Valley, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, provides an idyllic backdrop for a corporate Christmas party that combines festive cheer with the region’s unique charm. Planning a memorable event requires a thoughtful combination of the corporate culture and activities that resonate with both employees and the spirit of the season.

Think Outside the Box

The Cowichan Valley boasts a diverse range of venues, from rustic wineries to elegant estates, providing ample opportunities for hosting a corporate Christmas party. Choose a historic venue such as Keating Farm (it’s not just for weddings!) which offers a blend of tradition and modern amenities for a sophisticated celebration. Alternatively, the Merridale Cidery & Distillery is currently hosting Christmas at the Farm. Enjoy the party atmosphere and even do some Christmas shopping while you’re there!

Get in the Christmas Spirit

Given the Cowichan Valley’s reputation for excellence in wine and spirits, consider a winery tour and tasting event, allowing employees to unwind amidst picturesque vineyards. This can be a sophisticated addition to your corporate Christmas party. Partner with local wineries, distilleries, or breweries to organize a tasting experience where employees can sample a variety of beverages while learning about the craftsmanship behind each product. This not only provides a unique and educational experience but also supports local businesses.

Take It Outside!

Why not get out of the office or out of the house for you work from homers, and embrace the natural beauty of the Cowichan Valley? You can easily incorporate outdoor activities into your corporate Christmas party. Arrange a festive hike in the Cowichan River Provincial Park, where teams can explore scenic trails while participating in holiday-themed challenges and games. For a more laid-back experience, host a lakeside picnic at Cowichan Lake, complete with bonfires, hot cocoa, and carol singing beneath the starlit sky.

The Valley is home to three golf courses: Duncan Meadows Golf Course, the Cowichan Golf Club, and Mount Brenton Golf Course (in Chemainus). Why not put together a Christmas themed golf tournament with seasonal challenges and prizes? You can have tons of fun with this: costume contests, using red and green golf balls, egg nog beverage carts, the list goes on!

Or Keep It In-House

Pick a theme: Consider a “Cowichan Winter Wonderland” theme, incorporating local art and indigenous motifs into the decor to pay homage to the region’s cultural heritage.

Use seasonal décor: Infuse the holiday spirit into your corporate Christmas party by incorporating locally inspired decorations. Use elements like cedar boughs, pinecones, and native flora to create a rustic yet festive atmosphere.

Serve local fare: The Cowichan Valley is renowned for its farm-to-table culinary scene, making it an excellent choice for a Christmas feast featuring locally sourced ingredients. Collaborate with a local catering company to create a menu that highlights the region’s diverse flavours, from artisanal cheeses to freshly caught seafood. Consider hosting a cooking class where employees can learn to prepare a signature Cowichan dish, fostering teamwork and culinary creativity. Want to keep it simple? What about a Christmas Cookie Exchange?

Don’t forget to entertain the troops!: Elevate your corporate Christmas party with entertainment options that reflect the Cowichan Valley’s cultural richness. Hire local musicians to perform traditional carols or showcase indigenous performances that celebrate the area’s First Nations heritage. Additionally, consider incorporating interactive elements, such as a holiday-themed murder mystery or a team-based scavenger hunt, to keep employees engaged and entertained throughout the event.

Embrace the spirit of giving by incorporating charitable activities into your corporate Christmas party. Collaborate with local charities or non-profit organizations to organize a fundraising event, such as a silent auction or a donation drive for essential items. This not only fosters a sense of community and goodwill among employees but also contributes to the well-being of the local Cowichan Valley community.

Planning a corporate Christmas party in the Cowichan Valley offers a unique opportunity to blend the festive season with the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From enchanting outdoor activities to locally inspired decorations and culinary delights, the options are diverse and promising. By embracing the spirit of the Cowichan Valley, your corporate Christmas party can become a memorable and meaningful experience for employees fostering a sense of connection, appreciation, and celebration. Party on!

Mulling It Over: A Deep Dive into Mulled Wine

by Vanessa Day | Oct 29, 2023 | Cowichan Valley, Wine Tours

Mulling It Over: A Deep Dive into Mulled Wine

As the days grow shorter and the chill of autumn sets in throughout the Cowichan Valley, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by indulging in a steaming, aromatic glass of mulled wine. This timeless beverage, steeped in tradition and history, has been warming hearts and souls for centuries.

A Journey Through Time and Tradition

The origins of mulled wine can be traced back to ancient times when spices and herbs were used not only for their flavour but also for their medicinal properties. The concept of warming wine with spices and herbs, combined with the warming effects of alcohol, became a practice that spanned cultures and centuries.

The Renaissance and “Hippocras”

During the Renaissance, mulled wine was often referred to as “hippocras,” a nod to the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who was a proponent of using spices and herbs for their health benefits. Hailing from the 14th and 15th centuries, recipes for hippocras often included an array of ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and grains of paradise. The wine was warmed and then infused with these spices, making it a potent and flavourful concoction.

Victorian England

The Victorian era in England was a time when mulled wine experienced a resurgence in popularity. The British had a penchant for throwing elaborate holiday parties, and mulled wine became an integral part of these celebrations. It was often served as a warm, comforting drink on festive occasions. The spices added to the wine were seen as a way to enhance the flavour and fragrance of the wine while keeping the drinkers warm and cheerful.

Today

Today, mulled wine is still cherished and enjoyed, with various adaptations that reflect regional and personal preferences. Recipes often include a base of red wine, which is warmed and infused with a variety of spices, citrus fruits, and sweeteners. While the core ingredients remain similar, the specific spices and flavors can vary widely, allowing for a creative twist on this classic beverage.

The Taste of Tradition

Want to try it out? Here’s what you’ll need:

Red Wine: To start, choose a good-quality, dry red wine as the base. Cowichan Valley varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz are good choices.
Spices: Be creative! Although common spices include cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and nutmeg, some recipes also call for cardamom pods, allspice berries, or even black peppercorns.
Citrus: Orange and lemon slices or peels are often used to add a bright, citrusy note to the mix.
Sweetener: Sweeten your mulled wine with sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Use as much or as little sweeter as you like.
Optional Spirits: Some recipes incorporate a splash of brandy, rum, or even orange liqueur to add depth and complexity.
Extras: You can customize your mulled wine with additional ingredients like vanilla extract, dried fruit, or a dash of apple cider.

Now Begin!

Pour the red wine into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. You can adjust the quantity depending on the number of servings you desire.
Add the spices, citrus slices or peels, and sweetener to the wine. The quantity of each ingredient depends on your preference, but a common ratio might be 2-3 cinnamon sticks, 6-8 whole cloves, and 1-2 citrus fruits.
Gently warm the mixture over low to medium heat. Be cautious not to bring it to a boil, as boiling can evaporate the alcohol and affect the flavor.
Let the wine simmer and infuse with the spices for at least 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to keep the ingredients equally distributed.
If you wish to include spirits, add them a few minutes before serving, ensuring they are well incorporated.
Taste the mulled wine and adjust the sweetness or spice levels to your liking. If you desire a sweeter taste, add more sweetener. If you’d like more spice, you can steep the mixture for a longer period.
Strain the mulled wine into glasses or mugs, garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick or a slice of citrus, and serve while it’s still warm.

Cultural Variations

While its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, mulled wine is known by various names in different countries. Try these out:

Glühwein (Germany): German Glühwein is typically made with red wine, sugar, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Served at German Christmas markets, it is usually garnished with a slice of orange.
Vin Chaud (France): French vin chaud leans more towards the addition of orange zest, which provides a citrusy twist. It’s perfect with a side of roasted chestnuts.
Glögg (Scandinavia): Scandinavian glögg incorporates additional elements like almonds and raisins. It is sometimes made with aquavit, a Scandinavian spirit.

Add a Little Something Extra

Mulled wine pairs wonderfully with an array of fall and winter dishes. Consider serving it with:

Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and blue cheese, complements the rich, spiced flavours of mulled wine.
Roasted Nuts: The warm, earthy notes of mulled wine harmonize beautifully with the crunchy, nutty goodness of roasted nuts.
Desserts: Serve alongside apple pie, gingerbread, or any dessert with warm spices to create a delightful pairing.
Savoury Bites: No sweet tooth? Mulled wine is yummy with roasted meats, hearty stews, or even a charcuterie board.

This autumn and winter, enjoy a feast for the senses. Feel the warmth of the wine, breathe in the aromas, and savour the rich flavours of mulled wine on your tongue.

Autumn in a Glass: Fall-Themed Cider, Beer, and Wine

by Vanessa Day | Oct 18, 2023 | Brewery Tours, Cowichan Valley, Pub Shuttle, Transportation, Wine Tours

Autumn in a Glass: Fall-Themed Cider, Beer, and Wine

The days are growing shorter in the Cowichan Valley, and the colourful flowers of summer have given way to the colourful leaves of fall. We’re sitting in that time between cold frosted beer mugs and cold frosted window panes. As the leaves crunch beneath your feet and the air takes on a refreshing chill, fall-themed cider and beer offer a delightful way to embrace the season.

Fall-themed cider and beer offerings are becoming a seasonal tradition here capturing the essence of fall. It’s time to get out those chunky knit sweaters and embrace the cozy and heartwarming flavours of autumn bonfires and brisk walks in the cool, crisp air.

Cider: It’s Autumn’s Brew

Cowichan Valley cider has a time-honoured history as one of the quintessential fall beverages. It’s a versatile and diverse drink that encompasses a wide range of flavours and styles. Autumn is the time when apples are harvested. Their flavours are at their peak, so it’s the best time to craft a delicious brew.

Spiced Apple Cider, a Good Book, and a Crackling Fireplace

Apple is most certainly the most well known and common form of cider as apples come in an amazing number of varieties. Each brings its unique characteristics to the table, from sweet and juicy to tart and crisp. This versatility allows cider makers to experiment with different combinations. Crafted with warm spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, spiced cider is like a cozy blanket for your taste buds.

Nothing says autumn more than wrapping your hands around a hot spiced apple cider and breathing in the scents of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Pumpkin Spice: It’s Not Just for Coffee Anymore

Not into pumpkin spice lattes? Me neither! But it seems like the world goes crazy for them at this time of year. Try this fall favourite instead: pumpkin cider, which takes the essence of pumpkin pie and infuses it into a crisp, apple-based brew. This cider boasts flavours of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and tastes like a delicious autumn dessert in a glass. Skip the calories in that piece of pumpkin pie and enjoy the season’s signature flavour without the guilt!

Beer: Crafting Fall’s Magic

What says “fall is here!” more than the celebration of beer that is Oktoberfest? This festival is a beloved tradition that originated in Munich, Germany. It marks the arrival of autumn with the tapping of the first Oktoberfest beer keg. This style of beer is characterized by its rich, amber colour and a medium to full body. It has a balanced maltiness, with a clean, dry finish, making it perfect for pairing with hearty German fare.

Craft breweries and microbreweries in the Cowichan Valley have embraced the challenge of brewing unique beers that evoke fall. Taking inspiration from the spirit of the season, beer makers have introduced a variety of fall-themed brews that capture the spirit of autumn in a glass.

Pumpkin Ales: Brewing the Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin ales are a quintessential fall favourite. Crafted with real pumpkin and a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, these ales are reminiscent of pumpkin pie in a glass. A variety of pumpkin beers embody the cozy essence of pumpkin carving and bonfires.

Harvest Ales: The Bounty of the Fields

Harvest ales celebrate bringing in the harvest and season’s agricultural abundance. These beers often feature ingredients like fresh hops, barley, and wheat, giving them a rustic, earthy quality. They are a perfect way to connect with the agrarian roots of fall in the Cowichan Valley and honour the hard work of the harvest season.

Brown Ales: Embracing the Essence of Cozy

Brown ales are another popular choice for the fall season. They have a rich and malty profile, with a flavour that has been described as toasty, chocolatey, caramel-like, or toffeeish. The nutty undertones and smooth finish make them a warm, inviting choice, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

Pairing Fall-Themed Cider and Beer with Food

Fall-themed cider and beer are versatile beverages that can be enjoyed on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right foods. Here are some delectable pairing suggestions:

Cheese and Charcuterie Platter: A selection of cheeses, cured meats, and crusty bread is a perfect accompaniment to both cider and beer. The salty and savory elements of the charcuterie complement the sweet and spiced notes of the beverages.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Fall is the season for hearty, earthy vegetables. Roasted root vegetables, seasoned with herbs and drizzled with olive oil, make a wonderful pairing with the malty richness of brown ales or the spice-infused notes of pumpkin ales.
Apple Pie: What’s fall without a slice of warm apple pie? Pair it with a spiced cider or a pumpkin ale to create a heavenly combination that celebrates the quintessential flavors of autumn.
Sausages and Bratwurst: For those enjoying Oktoberfest beers, sausages and bratwurst are the classic pairings. The beer’s maltiness and clean finish complement the savory and slightly spicy notes of the sausages.

Autumn’s Elixir: Fall-Themed Wines

As autumn paints the Cowichan Valley red and gold, winemakers craft a symphony of flavours that harmonize with the season’s essence. It’s the perfect time for rich, velvety reds to take center stage.

Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots offer robust notes of blackberry and cedar, evoking cozy evening by the fireside. Pinot Noirs dance with delicate hints of cranberry and spice, a perfect accompaniment to harvest feasts and festivals.

Crisp Chardonnays with apple and pear undertones bring to mind orchard wrapped in early morning mist. Finally, sweet dessert wines, embody the apple pies topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle.

So, gather your loved ones, savour the flavours of this wonderful time of the year, and toast to the magic of autumn with these delightful seasonal offerings.

Off-Site Corporate Team Building: Top 10

by Vanessa Day | Oct 3, 2023 | Corporate Tours, Cowichan Valley, Transportation

Off-Site Corporate Team Building: Top 10

Everyone knows a positive work environment is directly linked to higher employee morale and engagement, and increased engagement translates to improved job satisfaction and a decrease in turnover rates.

Corporate team building has long been a critical strategy to foster collaboration, enhance communication, and improve overall productivity. Team building activities inject an element of fun and excitement into the workplace, helping employees bond over shared experiences.

However, who doesn’t want a day out of the office occasionally? Off-site activities have gained considerable popularity for their ability to increase camaraderie, boost morale, and improve teamwork. Stepping away from the office and engaging in a leisurely activity like a Cowichan Valley wine tasting or a bowling tournament can reduce stress and contribute to improved employee well-being. A more relaxed team is often a more productive one.

What about Employees who Work from Home?

In our post-CoVid world, the new normal has seen a sharp increase in the numbers of employees who work from home. The rise of remote work turned traditional team building methods upside down, with employers looking to get their employees out of the house to spend more time engaging with their co-workers in person. The more employees connect with each other and feel they belong to a greater whole, the happier they are and the better their engagement and productivity.

Corporate team building activities are diverse and can be tailored to suit the unique needs and culture of your particular organization. You design your agenda with your employees in mind and let us take care of the transportation! We’ll get you where you want to go in comfort and style.

Here are some ideas to get you going: our Top Ten Team Building Activities to promote collaboration, communication, and camaraderie among your employees:

1. Hiking or Nature Walks

Organize a group hike or nature walk to encourage bonding and conversation while enjoying the trails or mountains of the beautiful Cowichan Valley.

2. Outdoor Sports Tournament

Want to get a little more physical? Host a friendly competition of soccer, volleyball, or tug-of-war to promote teamwork and healthy competition. The Kerry Park Recreation Centre is the Cowichan Valley’s first stop.

3. Team Challenge Course

Design and navigate an obstacle course as a team to overcome physical and mental challenges. You’ve seen “Survivor”, right?

4. Problem-Solving Activities

Want to have fun while being a little more in-your-head? Participate in an escape room game that requires collaboration, critical thinking, and puzzle-solving to “escape” within a time limit. Create a treasure or scavenger hunt with clues and riddles that teams must solve together to find hidden treasures. For the foodies in the crew, organize a mystery dinner event where teams work together to solve a fictional mystery while enjoying a meal.

5. Creative Workshops

Take a cooking or art class together, letting teams create collaboratively.

6. Community Service

Give back! Dedicate a day to a local charity or community project or organize a clean up of a local park or beach.

7. Off-Site Retreats

Plan a retreat in one of the Cowichan Valley’s many scenic locations that combines team building activities with relaxation and bonding time.

8. Storytelling and Icebreakers

Have team members share personal stories or experiences to deepen connections and understanding. Two Truths and a Lie is a classic ice breaker game where team members share two truths and one lie, and their co-workers have to identify which is the lie, encouraging better understanding of, and communication with, one another. This is a fun activity that can start right on the bus!

9. Team Trivia

Host team trivia competitions to encourage friendly competition and enhance general knowledge about your company, your town, or just the world in general.

10. Wine Tours

Casual and social, wine tours or pub crawls can help break down hierarchical barriers. Employees and leaders can interact in a more relaxed environment, fostering a sense of equality and approachability.

Remember, the key to successful team building is to align the activities with your organization’s goals, culture, and the specific outcomes you want to achieve. Corporate team building is not just a trend; it’s a strategic investment in your organization’s success. Whether you’re aiming to improve communication, boost morale, or foster innovation, thoughtful planning and a variety of activities can create a positive ripple effect throughout the entire organization.

As the business landscape continues to evolve, the fundamental goal of team building remains the same: to build cohesive, high-performing teams that will drive your organization’s growth and prosperity.

Fall in Love with Autumn Weddings

by Vanessa Day | Sep 20, 2023 | Cowichan Valley, Weddings

Fall in Love with Autumn Weddings

Ahh, autumn in the Cowichan Valley! What’s not to love? The leaves start to change colour. The air cools, and cozy sweaters and hot, spicy drinks beckon. As summer fades into autumn, the Cowichan Valley transforms into a breathtaking mosaic of colours and experiences, becoming the ideal time and place to celebrate love.

Want something a little different? Let’s look at the top ten reasons to fall in love with autumn weddings in the Cowichan Valley!

A Stunning Backdrop

Autumn is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, making it a captivating backdrop for wedding ceremonies. Autumn in the Cowichan Valley is no exception! It is a time of transformation as the trees show off their vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a romantic and picturesque setting. The warm sunlight filtering through the golden leaves creates a soft, ethereal glow giving an other-wordly feel to the ceremonies.

A Feast for the Senses

It’s harvest time! Autumn weddings offer a unique culinary experience that embraces the bounty of the harvest. Couples can craft menus featuring delectable dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients such as hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and succulent meats. These staples of autumn cuisine can be incorporated into the wedding meal.

The Cowichan Valley is famous for its burgeoning wine industry. Fall is the harvest season for grapes, and the valley’s wineries come alive with activity. Consider a local winery as a possible wedding venue. Guests can participate in wine tastings, and enjoy the crisp autumn air on the picturesque vineyard terraces. Couples can delight their guests with a variety of warm beverages like mulled wine, hot toddies, and apple cider.

Rustic Elegance

Autumn weddings and rustic charm just seem to go hand in hand. Couples often opt for venues that showcase this element of the season, such as barns, vineyards, and lakeside or woodland settings.

Wooden accents, burlap table runners, and mason jar centerpieces perfectly complement the earthy tones of autumn, creating an atmosphere of warmth and intimacy. Brides often choose dresses with lace or vintage details that harmonize with the rustic theme, while grooms don tweed or flannel suits, adding to the cozy ambiance.

The Colours of Fall

The autumn colour palette is a dream come true for wedding designers. Rich, deep hues like burgundy, navy, plum, and forest green, combined with softer tones like blush and ivory, create a visually striking contrast that adds depth and character to the wedding decor. Burnt orange, chocolate brown, and rich gold all create that special warm and cozy atmosphere associated with fall weddings.

These colours can be woven into every aspect of the celebration, from floral arrangements and bridesmaid dresses to table settings and stationery, creating a cohesive and visually stunning experience. Feeling brave? What about a gold wedding dress instead of the traditional white?

Cozy Attire

Autumn weddings offer an opportunity for unique and cozy attire choices. Brides can opt for long-sleeved gowns with intricate lace or velvet details, adding a touch of elegance and warmth. Need more? How about a hooded cape or faux fur stole for a touch of glamour? Grooms can choose from a variety of stylish options like tweed suits, knit ties, or even leather accessories that complement the season’s aesthetic.

Guests can also have fun with their attire, incorporating autumn-inspired colours and textures into their outfits.

Seasonal Florals

Flowers play a pivotal role in wedding decor, and autumn offers an array of stunning blooms that can be incorporated into bouquets and arrangements. Sunflowers, dahlias, chrysanthemums, and deep red roses are just a few examples of the vibrant flowers that thrive during this season. These blooms can be paired with lush greenery, pampas grass, and wheat to create breathtaking floral displays that capture the essence of autumn’s beauty.

Unique Decor Elements

Autumn weddings provide ample opportunities for creative and unique decor elements. Couples can incorporate items like pumpkins, gourds, and hay bales into their decor, creating a charming and festive atmosphere. Candlelit lanterns and string lights add a cozy, romantic glow to the evening festivities, while personalized touches like custom signage or seasonal favours make the event truly memorable.

Fall themed weddings include harvest festivals, farm weddings, pumpkin patches, Thanksgiving celebrations, and even Halloween. Décor elements such as maple leaves, miniature corn cobs, sprigs of wheat, and cranberries signal an autumn wedding.

Comfort and Intimacy

The autumn season encourages an atmosphere of comfort and intimacy. Cooler temperatures inspire guests to gather close, fostering a sense of togetherness and warmth. Cozy seating areas with plush cushions and blankets can be set up for guests to relax and enjoy the celebration. This intimacy creates a special bond between the couple and their loved ones, making the wedding experience even more meaningful.

Guests at autumn weddings in the Cowichan Valley can choose from a range of cozy accommodations, including charming bed and breakfasts, boutique inns, and rustic cabins. These accommodations are often nestled amidst the valley’s scenic landscapes, providing a warm and inviting retreat after a day of celebration.

Memorable Photo Opportunities

Autumn provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photography. The vibrant foliage, soft lighting, and rustic elements create a romantic and timeless atmosphere. The Cowichan Valley’s iconic locations like Mount Tzouhalem and the Cowichan River offer spectacular opportunities for beautiful photographs, especially when surrounded by the warm hues of fall foliage.

Couples can capture breathtaking moments from candid shots in the falling leaves to romantic embraces beneath a canopy of trees.

A Season of New Beginnings

Autumn symbolizes a season of transition and change, making it an appropriate choice for beginning a new chapter in life. Just as the leaves fall, allowing space for new growth in the spring, a wedding in the fall represents the shedding of old lives and the emergence of something beautiful and enduring.

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