BJ OudmanBJ Oudman is a western Canadian freelance writer with interests in an active lifestyle, travel, food, and beverages from coffee to cocktails. She left her professional career as a physical therapist in Calgary, Alberta after 30 years to spend her time in Vancouver and the Okanagan. She has travelled extensively through Europe, Asia, and the Americas. She has her Level 2 ISG certification as well as BC Wine Ambassador Levels 1 and 2. Follow her on Instagram or Twitter @bjoudman. Her personal website is at https://lifedonedifferent.substack.com
Erin KorpistoErin Korpisto is a self-described 'Okanagan girl' who, after many years spent working in architecture and traveling abroad, decided to come back to the Valley to work in the wine industry. She is a Wine Blogger, Wine Educator, Wine Drinker, Promoter of #bcwine and is passionate about food, wine, travel.
Karen GrahamKaren Graham is a leading voice in British Columbia’s wine industry, based in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. She founded WineDrops.ca in 2015, offering sharp analysis and strategic insight on the business, policy, and regulatory forces shaping B.C. and Canadian wine. With deep experience in public policy and governance, she brings a rare blend of industry knowledge and policy fluency to the wine community. Karen serves as Chair of the Vancouver International Wine Festival Society and sits on the boards of the Business Alliance for Artisan Fermenters and Distillers and AIDV Canada, helping advance a strong, sustainable wine culture across the country.
Read her commentary at WineDrops.ca.
Karl KliparchukKarl Kliparchuk is the creator of MyWinePal.com and one of Vancouver’s most seasoned wine educators and ambassadors. A long‑serving president and executive member of the South World Wine Society, he has spent decades tasting widely, hosting events, and building strong relationships across the wine trade. Karl has worked with the Mark Anthony Group and holds WSET Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced certificates—earning a coveted Pass with Distinction. His writing and tastings reflect a serious commitment to wine and a passion for sharing discoveries with fellow enthusiasts.
Kim LawtonKim Lawton is the founder of DogLeg Marketing & Business Solutions, based in Summerland, B.C. With a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Calgary, she brings more than a decade of corporate experience with global brands such as Pepsi‑Cola and Hill’s Pet Nutrition, along with several years as a partner in a Toronto consulting firm specializing in strategic partnerships and negotiation. Today, Kim applies that expertise as a marketing consultant and business writer, driven by a passion for helping organizations and people thrive.
Mari KaneMari lived passionately as a writer, blogger and WordPress consultant, living in Vancouver and in the Okanagan Valley. Her writing could also be found at https://marikane.com/. Mari passed away after succumbing to illness in 2023. We remember her sweet and generous nature and her love of wine and we miss her.
Mark HickenMark is a consultant to the BC wine and liquor industry (see his business web sites here: Alca Intelligence Inc. + TTGV Advisors). Mark is a former lawyer (now retired from law practice). Mark was recognized as one of the “500 Most Influential Business Leaders in British Columbia” in both 2023 and 2025 by Business in Vancouver magazine in the “wine” and “advocacy” categories.
Mike KlassenMike Klassen is a Vancouver city councillor, communications professional, and long-time advocate for British Columbia’s wine industry. He co‑founded BC Wine Lover in 2007 with his wife Stacey, sharing stories from their travels through the province’s wine regions and spotlighting the people and places that make B.C. wine distinctive.
In 2015, Mike led the BC Wine Appellation Task Group, guiding a province‑wide consultation that produced recommendations—later endorsed by industry plebiscite—that strengthened B.C.’s appellation standards and helped establish today’s sub‑GIs.
His writing has appeared in the Vancouver Sun, Huffington Post, and Daily Hive, blending history, policy insight, and personal experience. Alongside his work on Vancouver City Council, Mike continues to explore vineyards across the province, champion local producers, and celebrate the evolving culture of B.C. wine.
Stacey FruinStacey Fruin is a passionate B.C. wine explorer, road‑trip enthusiast, and co‑founder of BC Wine Lover. A devoted cyclist and proud booster of the province’s wine community, she has tackled major charity rides including the Ride to Conquer Cancer and the Bicycle Trek for Life. When she’s not discovering new wineries or planning her next culinary creation, Stacey can be found enjoying life in Vancouver with her husband Mike and daughter Sophie. Beyond her wine adventures, she is also the co‑author of the leading guide to basic B.C. company law.
Town Hall BrandsTown Hall Brands is a full service agency specializing in wine, food and hospitality. Services include strategy, branding and graphic design, packaging, media relations, social media, and special events. We aim to work with clients and present projects that inspire and celebrate the good life.
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