Alderwood Farm

Alderwood Farm is located on Bowen Island, a mere 25min ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. Alternate ways to get there include the water taxi from Granville Island and being parachuted in by tipsy pilots who mistaken Bowen for one of our various sports stadiums. Hey, it can happen.
I had my wedding here in August of 2013 and my persons to contact were Jules and Reo. Both were super friendly and great to deal with. They always answered emails and questions promptly, made sure to check in regularly and seemed to possess superhero levels of patience. They made sure everyone was on the same page at all times and there were absolutely no issues that got in the way on the day of the event. The venue really is beautiful and must be seen in person and full glory to be appreciated. The grounds are lush with greenery and multiple species of flowers, bushes and trees. Bees buzz happily from blossom to blossom while the farms resident animals lounge around contentedly in their enclosures. The property is a photographer’s dream and ripe with photo opportunities. They also have emus, muscovies, chickens, geeze, donkeys and emus. Yup, emus. And they… thrum. They do something in their chests that sounds a lot like native drumming, only less rhythmical and without dancing. The beats made for a cool background soundtrack to the festivities. Eventually some Euro DJ is going to wise up and sample that to add it to a techno song…
The food at Alderwood is excellent. For our reception we had salmon, beef and a specially-​requested tenderloin that was the best I’ve ever eaten. It could have been the creamy mustard seed sauce that came on the side but honestly, I’ve never enjoyed meat more. The staff worked overtime to ensure all guests were happy and comfortable, including those with special needs and both Jules and Reo were on hand for everything. They co-​ordinated with our MC and organizers to ensure every little detail was perfect and the day flowed seamlessly.
Alderwood Farm is a fantastic place for people who want the complete package: outdoor venue w/​covered options, catering, dessert, decorations, chair/​linens/​glassware/​dinnerware rentals. They take care of all the necessary forms and licenses you will need, which might seem small but it’s one less thing to worry about when you’re planning a wedding. Jules and Reo really do go all out to create a memorable experience for anyone who attends nuptials at Alderwood. They only do one wedding per weekend which allows for unparalleled quality all around. We’re so glad we found the team at Alderwood Farm for our ceremony and reception. Our guests kept saying it was the most fun they’ve had at a wedding in… well, possibly ever… and as the bride and groom, it was our best day as well. They had us all smiling even as we left the island the next morning.

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Alderwood. There are 3 main reasons why you would visit this location:
1. A wedding or special event. They host and plan weddings and special events, provide catering, and take care of all the small details for your special day. I have experienced their service first-​hand working as a bartender and server at said events :) The guests gush with compliments and praise, and I am 100% decided that when I get married, it will be at Alderwood! The venue is breathtaking, and all the guests have this amazing glow as they watch their friends make their lifelong commitments on such a beautiful backdrop. I can’t imagine that kind of experience anywhere else.
2. Their B&B. I haven’t ever stayed in a B&B outside of Alderwood, and I only realized this week (while looking for one in Penticton) how unnaturally high Alderwood has set my expectations! The Alderwood B&B is a private wood cabin with an AMAZING walk-​in shower, oversized showerhead, a murphy bed, beautiful tiled floors, architecturally interesting additions, and an adorable little kitchen. It’s so affordable, too! On top of that, the farm owners serve you an amazing breakfast in the morning, you’re surrounded by curious animals (emu, donkeys, muscovies), and just an incredible and warm atmosphere. Most B&Bs, as I am learning now, are just a room in someone’s house! How disappointing compared to Alderwood.
3. Their butcher shop/​store. Julie, one of the owners of the farm, is seriously knowledgeable about natural health and wellness, and it shows in her shop! She has everything you would ever want to feel good and enjoy your meal. Matcha tea, natural honey, local handmade products, spa items, pre-​made meals, the BEST tiramisu you will EVER have, and so much more.
I know that one might assume I’m biased having worked on Alderwood, but I am writing this without any prompt (and without the owners’ knowledge). Because I have experienced everything they have to offer, and I’ve been continuously amazed, I had to review them!