July seemed like a good time, and the 14th a date with limited conflicts, said Sylvia Remmenga, executive director of the Los Olivos Business Organization (LOBO).
Then Larry Schaffer of Tersero Wines noted that the 14th was Bastille Day – thus, the French-themed outing came to life.
Area vineyards paired up with local restaurants, caterers and chocolatiers to come up with a refreshing change in taste options than most other venues tout, sparking the creativity of participating businesses and attendance interests of participants.
The original location of the event had to be changed due to a conflict, so the Coghlans offered up their backyard. “What a cute setup,” said Nancy Ivono, who came up from Los Angeles for the event. She and Wendy Moriarty put together wine enthusiasts tours for a living.
“We appreciate good wine, but not thousands of people,” said Moriarty. Santa Barbara was holding a similar event – theirs without the intimacy of Los Olivos. As the doors opened last Saturday, only 12 of the 100 tickets weren’t pre-sold.
“For a first-time event, this is a fantastic turnout,” said Kelly Lucia, LOBO assistant director.
Sitting under the shade of mature trees, with wine and tasty treats in hands, visitors chatted and watched as belly dancers took to the bocce court to perform traditional pieces and even a French-themed version of the Can-can.
“Just shove it your mouth,” advised Marta Nichols, wife of Matt Brothers, co-owner of Sides Hardware and Shoes as she handed out their addition to the varied menu.
Tom Palmer’s Uncle Tom’s Salsas may not have exactly fit the theme, but his local product just hit the markets. “Too many people enjoyed it and encourage me is why, I guess,” he said of how his love of gardening (and making good use of his harvest) spurred his entrepreneurial leap.
New also to town – businesswise at least – are Amy Freedman and Jennifer Freed, who just opened a new chocolate shop in the water tower next to the Corner House Coffee.
Who knows what tasty treats the little town of Los Olivos will offer next. struax@syvjournal.com