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Digital marketing strategies that work.
With consumer trends evolving at a dizzying pace, digital marketing has become indispensable for wineries seeking to connect with customers, drive sales and build brand loyalty. Thankfully, there are an array of online platforms and strategies at your disposal, simplifying digital marketing to reach a wider audience and differentiate yourself. Begin by leveraging these 8 crucial elements.
With consumer trends evolving at a dizzying pace, digital marketing has become indispensable for wineries seeking to connect with customers, drive sales and build brand loyalty. Thankfully, there are an array of online platforms and strategies at your disposal, simplifying digital marketing to reach a wider audience and differentiate yourself. Begin by leveraging these 8 crucial elements:
Engaging Website Design
A visually appealing and user-friendly web site serves as the cornerstone of your digital presence. Invest in a professionally designed web site that showcases your winery's unique story, vineyard landscapes and wine offerings. Ensure seamless navigation, mobile responsiveness, and clear calls-to-action to enhance user experience and encourage exploration, building a customer journey that converts.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Enhance your winery's online visibility by optimizing your web site for search engines. Conduct keyword research to identify relevant terms related to your products, location and experiences. Incorporate these keywords strategically into your web site's content, meta tags and image alt texts to improve organic search rankings and attract qualified traffic.
Compelling Content Marketing
Create and share valuable, informative content that resonates with your target audience. Develop blog posts, articles, videos and infographics that educate consumers about viticulture, winemaking, food pairings and tasting tips. Share behind-the-scenes stories and captivating visuals to evoke emotions and foster a deeper connection with your brand.
Social Media Engagement
Harness the power of social media platforms to engage with wine enthusiasts and amplify your brand's reach. Establish a presence on popular platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and (yes, we said it) Tik Tok. Utilize brand guidelines to share consistently visually appealing and diverse content, including photos of your team, vineyard, wine labels, tasting experiences and events. Encourage user-generated content and actively participate in conversations to build a vibrant online community.
Email Marketing Campaigns
Build and nurture relationships with customers through targeted email marketing campaigns. Segment your email list based on preferences, purchase history and engagement levels to deliver personalized content and offers. Send regular newsletters, exclusive promotions and event invitations to keep subscribers informed and engaged with your winery. Be sure these communications are visually captivating and on brand.
Influencer Partnerships
Collaborate with influencers and wine bloggers to amplify your brand's visibility and credibility. Identify influencers whose audience aligns with your target demographic (truly) and collaborate on sponsored content, product reviews and event partnerships. Leverage their reach and authenticity to introduce your wines to new audiences and generate buzz around your brand.
Local SEO and Online Directories
Strengthen your presence in local search results by optimizing your winery's listings on online directories such as Google My Business, Yelp and TripAdvisor. Ensure that your business information is accurate and up-to-date, including address, phone number, and hours of operation. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to boost your credibility and attract more visitors. This sounds simple but can be disastrous if overlooked!
Data Analytics and Optimization
Continuously monitor and analyze key performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of your digital marketing efforts. Track web site traffic, engagement metrics, conversion rates and sales revenue to identify trends and areas for improvement. Use data-driven insights to refine your strategies, allocate resources effectively, and drive continuous growth for your winery.
By implementing these top digital marketing strategies, you can achieve success and establish a strong online presence in a competitive and ever-changing market. Embrace creativity, innovation and strategic thinking to leverage the power of digital marketing and elevate your winery to new heights of success.
Need a hand navigating it all? Give us a call. We’re happy to help!
Empathy is power.
Understanding your customers goes beyond the tasting notes and vineyard origins. It delves into the realm of empathy, a powerful tool that unearths the true essence of their desires and preferences.
Understanding your customers goes beyond the tasting notes and vineyard origins. It delves into the realm of empathy, a powerful tool that unearths the true essence of their desires and preferences.
Empathy in wine sales is not just about knowing the latest vintages or the intricate details of winemaking. It’s about connecting with the client on a deeper level, understanding their unique tastes, preferences, and the lifestyle they aspire to. This personal touch transforms the wine-selling experience into a journey, where the customer feels seen and heard.
Luxury wines aren’t merely beverages; they’re an embodiment of a certain lifestyle, an experience waiting to be savored. Empathy allows sales professionals to step into the shoes of their clients, appreciating the nuances of their individual preferences. The key is truly wanting to understand the client’s context on all levels, from cultural to economical to regional to generational.
The art of empathetic selling involves active listening and perceiving the unspoken cues. Beyond the standard questions, it’s about deciphering the stories behind the choices. Why does a particular vintage hold sentimental value? What memories are associated with that special bottle? These are the threads that weave a narrative, creating a personalized connection that goes beyond transactional exchanges.
Furthermore, empathy helps anticipate and address unarticulated needs. A client might not explicitly express a preference for organic or sustainably produced wines, but an empathetic salesperson can discern these values and recommend options that align with the client’s ethos.
The power of empathy extends to the cultivation of long-term relationships. Clients aren’t just one-time buyers; they’re patrons seeking an ongoing connection with a brand that understands them. By establishing trust and loyalty through empathetic, authentic interactions, sales professionals pave the way for repeat business and enthusiastic referrals.
Ultimately, the magic of empathy lies in its ability to elevate the wine-buying experience from transactional to transformational. It’s about more than just selling a bottle; it’s about curating an experience that resonates with the client’s desires and aspirations.
Each bottle tells a story, and empathy is our secret ingredient, unlocking a world of possibilities and ensuring that every sip is a journey into the heart of the client’s unique taste and lifestyle.
Special events bring the customer journey full circle.
Special events tailored for members not only attract new enthusiasts seeking exclusive experiences but also fortify the relationships with existing members, turning a wine club into a community.
In the world of fine wine, the customer journey extends well beyond the uncorking of a bottle. For luxury wine clubs, the secret to success lies not only in offering exquisite vintages but also in crafting memorable experiences for your esteemed members. Special events tailored exclusively for these wine enthusiasts serve as a potent strategy to both attract new members and fortify relationships with existing ones.
We often host private tastings featuring rare and limited-edition wines. These exclusive events create an aura of prestige, enticing potential members who seek access to unique and exceptional experiences. Offering a taste of the extraordinary is a powerful lure for those passionate about expanding their palate.
Elevating the tasting experience, we organize events that pair your exquisite wines with carefully curated culinary delights. Whether it's a gourmet dinner or a themed food and wine pairing, these occasions create an immersive experience that not only delights the senses but also fosters a sense of community among members.
Providing members with a glimpse behind the scenes adds a layer of intimacy to the relationship. Exclusive vineyard tours, winemaker meet-and-greets, and barrel tastings connect members directly with the winemaking process. This insider access not only deepens members' appreciation for the craft but also solidifies their loyalty to the club.
Hosting events exclusively for wine club members fosters a sense of belonging. From release parties for new vintages to members-only soirées, these gatherings create a community where individuals who share a passion for fine wines can connect, share experiences and build lasting relationships.
Tailoring events to the preferences of individual members enhances the personal connection. Whether it's organizing private tastings based on members' favorite varietals or customizing event invitations, personalization demonstrates a commitment to understanding and meeting the unique desires of each member or segment.
Integrating compliant loyalty programs into these events adds an extra layer of incentive. Rewarding members for their continued patronage, attendance or referrals reinforces their loyalty and encourages them to remain active participants in the club.
Encouraging members to share their experiences on social media amplifies the club's reach. User-generated content not only serves as authentic testimonial but also acts as a powerful marketing tool, attracting new members who aspire to be part of a community that values quality, exclusivity, and shared passions.
It’s important to identify the objective of your event. If you’re not only after retention but looking for sales, we specifically engineer a path to point of sale through curated communication, collateral and well-placed closers.
Curious how to take your events program to the next level? Give us a shout.
Well-planned content is the heartbeat of a successful marketing strategy.
Instagram tiles for a luxury winery
In the world of luxury wineries, the delicate balance between tradition and innovation often defines success. As we step into 2024, the importance of meticulous planning for marketing campaigns cannot be overstated. Crafting an annual Content Calendar that marries a consistent cadence with the flexibility to showcase new offerings provides an unparalleled strategic advantage.
Luxury is all about anticipation, and a well-thought-out marketing plan allows wineries to build excitement around upcoming releases and events. By creating a buzz early on, you engage your audience and set the stage for memorable experiences ahead - both online and in person.
Your annual Content Calendar acts as the heartbeat of a successful marketing strategy. Whether it's monthly newsletters, regular social media updates, or quarterly events, a reliable schedule keeps the brand in the forefront of consumers' minds.
Thematic consistency is key in the luxury segment. Plan campaigns around overarching themes or seasons that resonate with the brand's identity, creating a cohesive and visually appealing marketing landscape. Avoid trendy gimmicks or holidays that won’t speak authentically from your brand position.
The wine industry is dynamic, with new vintages, limited editions and exclusive events frequently emerging. A well-designed content calendar allows for nimble adjustments, enabling wineries to seamlessly incorporate and promote these new offerings without disrupting the overall marketing flow.
Luxury products thrive on the visual appeal of their products. Social media platforms provide an ideal space to showcase the elegance and sophistication associated with the brand. Utilize Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and other relative platforms to curate visually stunning content that aligns with the Content Calendar.
Engage consumers with interactive campaigns that evoke a sense of exclusivity. Virtual tastings, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and user-generated content can be seamlessly integrated into the Content Calendar to enhance customer engagement.
Curious to brainstorm ideas for your 2024 Content Calendar? Get in touch. We’d love to help set you up for your most successful year yet.
Turn up the ROI on your special events.
Onboarding a professional consulting event producer frees up your team to focus on relationship-building and conversion
For wineries aiming to create unforgettable experiences for their members and guests, the demands of orchestrating flawless events while balancing business development and sales goals can take a toll. This is where Dunstan Creative, with 20 years of professional event planning and luxury hospitality expertise, steps in to alleviate burnout and elevate the overall event production experience.
Dunstan Creative's seasoned event planners bring two decades of invaluable experience to the table. We understand the nuances of the wine industry, the intricacies of each winery's unique offerings, and the expectations of discerning wine enthusiasts. This deep knowledge allows us to conceptualize and produce remarkable special events.
Wineries invest a significant amount of time and effort into perfecting their craft. When the staff is burdened with the additional responsibilities of event planning, burnout becomes a real concern. Dunstan Creative steps in as a strategic partner, taking the weight off the shoulders of winery team. This allows you to refocus on what you do best – crafting exceptional wines.
Onboarding a professional consulting event producer can be a strategic move that not only streamlines the event management process but also unlocks significant opportunities for your sales team. By entrusting event planning responsibilities to a specialized team, the internal staff can redirect their focus and energy towards achieving sales goals. This shift allows the sales team to engage more proactively with club members and potential customers during events, ultimately enhancing relationship-building and sales conversion opportunities. With the burden of event logistics lifted, the internal team gains the flexibility to concentrate on leveraging every special occasion as a powerful marketing tool, maximizing the return on investment for each event and driving increased sales for the winery.
From wine release celebrations to intimate lunches, dinners, and receptions, Dunstan Creative tailors each event to reflect the unique personality and offerings of the winery. Whether it's an exclusive gathering for wine club members or a grand celebration for a new vintage release, every detail is meticulously planned and executed.
Dunstan Creative thrives on the seamless execution of events. The team's expertise ensures that every aspect, from logistics to aesthetics, is flawlessly managed. This commitment to excellence creates an environment where winery teams can relax and enjoy the event alongside their guests, knowing that every detail is in capable hands.
Dunstan Creative has emerged as a vital ally for wineries seeking to enhance special events and support the hardworking staff. With a wealth of experience, an understanding of the industry, and a commitment to creating remarkable moments, Dunstan Creative transforms every event into a masterpiece that reflects the true essence of Napa Valley's wine culture.
Let’s take your wine club on the road in 2024.
Let’s take your wine club on the road in 2024.
Shared experiences build relationships, it's that simple. If you carve out opportunities for your Wine Club members to connect with your brand and one another in a meaningful way and continue to nurture the relationship, the bond can be everlasting.
Vintner dinners are a elegant opportunities to showcase your wines, to be sure. But meeting your customers in their need state means crafting a member retention strategy that incorporates additional passions to solidify the connection. Travel, sports, health and wellness, arts and culture add layers of personality to any group experience.
Don't worry, there are lots of opportunities to showcase your wine along the way!
Dunstan Creative lifestyle experiences are intended to pamper a targeted subset of your Wine Club Membership. More active members might enjoy a wilderness retreat high in the Rocky Mountains. Resort travelers will revel in the opportunity to hit the links on a bucket list golf course. Wellness gurus may enjoy a spa retreat with morning yoga and vegetarian wine and food pairings.
Dunstan Creative conceptualizes, budgets, promotes and produces these events for your Wine Club Members. When we partner, Dunstan Creative becomes an extension of your brand, delivering high-touch hospitality throughout the process and ensuring five-star reviews and positive financial gains.
You provide the wines, attend to host your guests, sit back and get ready for the positive feedback. Your guests will leave thirsty for their next experience to connect with - and through - your brand.
Five steps to kick start your 2024 marketing calendar.
Five steps to kick start your 2024 marketing calendar.
As the sun sets beyond the vineyards, and the final harvest of the year completes, it's time for wine marketers to gaze toward the future. Start shaping your 2024 marketing calendar now in 5 simple steps.
Craft a Captivating Story.
Luxury wineries are more than just producers of exceptional wines; they are storytellers, weaving narratives that elevate the experience of each bottle. Starting early allows you to carefully craft a compelling story for the upcoming year, aligning it with the essence of your brand and the unique qualities of your wines. Whether it's the celebration of a milestone, the introduction of a new collection, or the continuation of a legacy, an early start ensures your story is rich, nuanced, and resonates with your target audience.
Align with Seasonal Trends.
The world of luxury wines is influenced by seasons, each bringing its own magic to the vineyards. By planning ahead, you can align your marketing calendar with the natural rhythms of the industry. Anticipate key events, releases, and festivities, allowing your winery to be at the forefront of seasonal trends. This foresight enables you to create timely and relevant campaigns that capture the attention of your audience when their interest is at its peak.
Seamless Event Coordination.
Luxury wineries often host exclusive events, tastings, and experiences that are eagerly anticipated by connoisseurs. Starting your planning early ensures seamless coordination of these events, from selecting dates that avoid clashes with industry gatherings to securing partnerships with influencers or collaborators. Whether it's a summer soirée among the vines or an intimate winter tasting, early planning guarantees that every detail is executed with precision, creating unforgettable moments for your clientele.
Embrace Multi-Channel Marketing.
In the digital age, a robust online presence is as essential as the vines themselves. Early planning allows you to develop a comprehensive multi-channel marketing strategy. From refining your social media campaigns to optimizing your website for a seamless customer journey, an early start provides the groundwork for a synchronized and effective digital presence. Engage your audience through tantalizing visuals, captivating stories, and exclusive content, fostering a sense of connection and anticipation.
Nurture Customer Relationships.
Building lasting relationships with your clientele requires thoughtful and consistent efforts. By planning ahead, you can implement a customer relationship management (CRM) strategy that keeps your brand at the forefront of their minds throughout the year. Whether it's through personalized communications, loyalty programs, or exclusive membership perks, early content planning for your annual digital marketing and social media strategy enables you to nurture and deepen connections with your valued customers.
In the world of luxury winemaking, success is an art form that requires a blend of craftsmanship, strategy and foresight. Starting the journey toward your 2024 marketing calendar now sets the stage for a year of unparalleled experiences, captivating stories, and, ultimately, the uncorking of success. So, as the first leaves of autumn fall, let the planning begin, and let your brand's story unfold like a fine wine – with patience, precision, and a touch of magic. Cheers to a vintage year ahead!
Need a hand crafting your marketing plan for 2024? Give us a shout! We will demystify the process and set you up for success.
Positioning Brannan Center for greatness.
BrannanCenter.org has an all new look! Visit to learn more about our mission and vision, and what’s to come with the opening in 2025!
My family moved to Calistoga in 2019, and until this year I commuted out of town for work in Rutherford, where I spent 50+ hours a week building on a family-owned brand with roots dating back to 1973. It was a rewarding but rather consuming experience, leaving me with little gas in the tank for local exploration after hours.
This year, having stepped away to found Dunstan Creative, I’ve been able to spend purposeful time in Calistoga. I’ve committed to supporting this town through various civic efforts, and I’ve been more present and available for my children’s school activities and extracurriculars. For the first time, it truly feels like home.
I was introduced to the founders of Brannan Center last year, and invited to join its board of directors. I eventually took on the role of marketing and public relations chair, working to redefine the organization’s brand guidelines and bring all of creative assets in line, to formalize its mission and vision, and to communicate its messaging through press and social media.
I have met incredible leaders, friends and neighbors through the process, and I’m honored to be in their company as we bring this dream to fruition. Our mission is to empower the greater UpValley community with opportunities to experience performing arts and community programming that celebrate culture and promote vitality in our region. We envision creating a space that restores, enlivens and cultivates the human spirit through community, creativity and learning.
This week, we launched our new web site, a project I volunteered to lead. I invite you to follow along as this exquisite reconstruction unfolds both on the blog at BrannanCenter.org and on Facebook and Instagram. We’ll be opening the doors in the latter part of 2025. Plan your visit to this idyllic Wine Country town and be sure to take in a show or participate in a workshop, lecture or class. The opportunities for enrichment will be endless.
Styled photography sells.
Only strong pictures are worth 1000 words.
Positioned in your luxury wine e-mail marketing campaign and e-commerce channels, print collateral, web design and social media, every element in your commercial photography should be working in concert to tell your brand story, strengthening the overall message.
In many cases, the story of a wine can be visually expressed through professional photography styling with items that represent flavors and aromas of the wines, or hint at the winemaking process. Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples, pears, lemons, pineapple, ripe melon, stone and oak might represent a Chardonnay, for example. Often red or black berries, cherries, herbs and cocoa will be paired with a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon.
While those curated collections are thoughtful and beautiful, they can become repetitive year after year if your wine is produced consistently each vintage.
In this curated flat lay photo for Cakebread Cellars, I styled the wine with items that that would highlight the season and complement the verdant glass bottle of Napa Valley Chardonnay. Fresh magnolia and eucalyptus greens are a nod to the local flora of the region, while cymbidium orchids and fresh-cut delicata squash add warm fall tones that evoke freshness and vitality. The squash works double duty in that it was harvested from the winery's culinary garden, a cornerstone of the Cakebread Cellars brand. The various seed pods and dried grasses contribute to the harvest vibe without leading the mind to wander.
Today's consumers are craving top quality content on all channels. If the quality of your photo styling and photography doesn't align with the quality of your product, it's a disservice to your brand. Investing in these areas strategically (note the removal of the vintage for evergreen usability here) is an absolute must.
Are you interested in professional photography styling for your winery sales and marketing efforts? Drop us a line to learn how we'll captivate and engage your audience, aligning the quality of your imagery with the quality of your product to drive conversion.
Photo by Grove Haus
Craft holiday sales emails that convert.
A Focused Campaign Strategy will Make or Break your 2023 Budget
The holiday season is in full swing, and with just two months left in Q4, your email campaign strategy will either make or break the 2023 budget. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of creating an effective email campaign that will inspire your audience to make unforgettable wine choices this holiday season.
Know Your Audience: Before you start crafting your email campaign, it’s essential to understand your audience. Are you targeting wine enthusiasts, corporate gift buyers, or those looking for a memorable holiday gift? Tailor your email content and design to cater to the specific needs and preferences of your target audience.
Craft Compelling Content: Your email should tell a story. Highlight the unique qualities of your Napa and Sonoma wines, such as terroir, grape varietals, and the expertise of the winemakers. Share the history of the winery, its commitment to sustainability, and any awards or accolades received. Make sure your content is engaging and informative.
Stunning Imagery: Visuals are crucial in the world of luxury wines. Use high-quality images of the vineyards, wine bottles, and the Wine Country landscape to immerse your readers in the experience. Include photos of wine tastings, vineyard tours, and the winemakers themselves to add a personal touch.
Limited-Time Offers: Create a sense of urgency with limited-time offers and exclusive promotions. Encourage your subscribers to make a purchase during the holiday season by offering special discounts, bundles, or complimentary tastings when they visit the winery.
Personalization: Personalize your emails by addressing recipients by name and tailoring recommendations based on their previous interactions or purchase history. Make them feel like they’re receiving a unique and curated wine selection just for them.
Storytelling: Share the stories behind the wines and the people who make them. Whether it’s the winemaker’s passion for crafting the perfect blend or the winery’s commitment to sustainable practices, compelling narratives can create a stronger emotional connection with your audience.
Mobile Optimization: Ensure your email is mobile-friendly as many people check their emails on smartphones. A responsive design is essential to provide a seamless experience for all users.
Call to Action: Each email should have a clear call to action (CTA) that directs recipients to your website for making a purchase. Use persuasive language and a prominent CTA button to guide your readers.
Have questions or need help crafting an email campaign strategy that converts? Give us a call.
Happy holidays, everyone!
Cheers,
Aime
Welcome harvest 2023.
The magic of a fall harvest.
As the warm, golden days of summer gradually transition into the cool, crisp embrace of autumn, there’s one event that wine enthusiasts and nature lovers eagerly anticipate in Napa Valley: the annual harvest season. With the 2023 vintage just around the corner, it’s time to explore why harvest time in Napa Valley is both exciting and fun, while also delving into the expectations for this promising year.
Napa Valley’s picturesque landscapes come to life during the harvest season. Lush vineyards, heavy with clusters of ripe grapes, create a tapestry of vibrant colors against a backdrop of the Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges. The sight of crews carefully picking grapes by hand and the hum of machinery in action adds an extra layer of charm to this idyllic setting.
Renowned chefs and restaurants in the region celebrate this time of year with special menus that pair perfectly with the celebratory atmosphere. Food and wine enthusiasts can indulge in delectable dishes that complement wines from vintages past as we anticipate the next.
Napa Valley is renowned for its diverse grape varietals, from the rich Cabernet Sauvignon to the elegant Chardonnay. Each grape variety has its unique character, and the anticipation of how these grapes will express themselves in the 2023 vintage is part of the excitement.
Behind every exceptional wine is a skilled winemaker. Harvest is when their artistry shines brightest as they make crucial decisions about when to pick the grapes, how to ferment them, and how long to age the wine. Their expertise and intuition are vital in shaping the vintage’s ultimate quality.
Napa Valley’s climate plays a pivotal role in the quality of its wine, and 2023 has seen near-perfect weather conditions. Winter and Spring rains filled the soils, fueling the growing season. Mild temperatures and consistent sunshine created comfortable growing conditions for harvest, which is beginning two to four weeks later than usual as a result. The 2023 grapes have airplane mode, and it's time to switch on.
Harvest time in Napa Valley is more than a seasonal event; it’s a celebration of nature’s bounty, the artistry of winemaking, and the joy of savoring exceptional wines. As we eagerly await the release of the 2023 vintage, the expectations are high for a year that promises to deliver wines of distinction, embodying the very essence of Napa Valley’s terroir and craftsmanship. So, raise your glasses to the excitement and fun of Napa Valley’s harvest season, and let the anticipation of 2023 vintage transport you to this wine lover’s paradise.
The power of community.
Why I give back
Growing up, my family never laid down roots. I was born near Sanibel Island, Florida, but moved to Big Bear Lake, California, before my first birthday. Life continued in that manner between various resort towns where my mother worked as an architect in Florida, California, Colorado and the Cayman Islands.
A great benefit to the rolling stone lifestyle is that I feel at home just about anywhere. But I didn't truly become a part of a community until my early 20s.
My husband and I met in college. After graduation, we fixed up a little Mid Century bungalow in the Flamingo Park Historic District of West Palm Beach. The neighborhood association organized monthly happy hours, each hosted by a different resident, and we signed up to host. It was the first time I'd ever met my neighbors, let alone forged actual relationships. I fell in love with entertaining at home and exploring the places and people around us.
I eventually joined the Flamingo Park Neighborhood Association board of directors, chaired the garden tour and the holiday home tour year after year. A neighbor-turned-friend introduced me to the Junior League of the Palm Beaches, where I served on the development committee in support of children's welfare. I eventually joined the board of directors there, too.
I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when I was 30. My first son was not yet one at the time. One of the most incredible components of that experience was how the community showed up for my family.
Another of those neighbors-turned-friends regularly sat with my son so I could work or get my nails done or just take a nap. Another brought lunch to just about every chemo session, and she stayed with me for treatment the six hours every other Monday for six months. The casseroles and flowers arrived near daily. A friend who'd lined up a musical performance for a charity event arranged to have the group serenade us a cappella at our front door after hours.
It was magical. That community turned one of the darkest times in my life into a miraculous experience. We talk a lot about giving back to the community, but it is truly the community that gives back to us if we chose to invest in it.
This year in Calistoga, I am proud to serve as President of Calistoga Little League. Having served as Vice President and Fund-Raising Chair since 2020, I have worked alongside some incredible volunteers and have the pleasure of meeting the players' families, as well as our generous sponsors.
In 2022, I joined the board of directors for Brannan Center as Marketing and Communications Chair, which I am incredibly excited about. Brannan Center represents the restoration of a historic church at the heart of our little town, revitalizing a once-cherished community gathering place.
Area residents and visitors will come together for entertainment, education and community. Students of our local public schools and visiting artists will benefit from state-of-the-art music and theater performance space. Nonprofits will have the opportunity to leverage the space for programming and fund-raising.
It will truly be a gift to see this come to fruition.
Construction broke ground in March, and we expect to open following 30 months of construction. In the meantime, you will catch me revamping the web site, designing print and digital collateral, and keeping the community informed of our progress. For more information or to make a donation, please visit BrannanCenter.org (I haven't redesigned it just yet - stay tuned).
But whatever you do, get involved. Dive in. Make a splash. Feel the magic that is being a part of your community, and keep that feeling alive. It is worth every minute.