McEvoy Ranch, located in Petaluma, Calif., is setting a precedent. Through its brand new program, the 550-acre ranch of Marin County is welcoming outside companies and groups to host corporate and special events for the first time. Guests will have a pick of six customizable indoor and outdoor venues, allowing for a variety of events, gatherings and meetings.
Located in the rolling hills, McEvoy Ranch is one of the largest producers of estate-grown, certified organic extra virgin olive oil in the U.S. It was founded in 1991, and in addition to its production of award-winning olive oil, McEvoy Ranch also produces several wines and the olive oil-enriched 80 Acres body care line.
The variety of activities for guests includes hosted wine and olive oil tastings, tours of the orchards, vineyards and gardens, as well as yoga, cooking classes, hiking, bird watching, aromatherapy, wreath-making classes and floral arrangement classes. Among the select venues are The Victorian, The Pagoda and Frantoio Patio. Guests are also welcome to plan indoor and outdoor events at the other on-site venues: the Outdoor Courtyard, Rustic Greenhouse and Poplar Lane. Technological amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi access, projection screens, a state-of-the-art projector and laptop.
The Victorian
Set on the ranch’s orginal homestead, The Victorian is convenient for large groups, meetings, workshops, dinners, yoga classes and bridal showers. The venue is complete with chandelier, original olive branch frescos, a red piano signed by Elton John and custom art created by Wayne Thiebaud.
The Pagoda
Inspired by founder Nan McEvoy’s love for Asian travel, The Pagoda is reminiscent of a Chinese tea house and well-suited for intimate dinner parties, wine tastings, workshops and special parties. The venue is complete with a mosaic river rock floor, cerulean blue ceiling and suspended Venetian lights.
Frantoio Patio
Overlooking one of the Ranch’s six ponds, Frantoio Patio sits adjacent to the Olive Mill and Tasting Room. The patio is convenient for leisure and enjoying the outdoor view. For nighttime receptions and private dinners, an outdoor fire pit and heat lamps will keep guests warm and content.
Breakout activities include:
Ranch Tours and Tastings
Guest can enjoy a tour of McEvoy Ranch’s 80 acres, complete with a walk through the orchards and vineyards, a visit to the mill, and a guided olive oil and wine tasting.
Yoga
Yoga classes (ranging from 60-75 minutes) are offered and taught by a local, seasoned instructor. Guests can come for relaxion purposes while also learning techniques in breathing, gaining strength and improving flexibility.
Cooking Classes
Ranging from three to four hours long, McEvoy Ranch’s chefs will teach guests valuable skills within a step-by-step culinary class. At the beginning of the class, guests will be guided through the garden with the chef to hand select the freshest and finest organic ingredients. The end results are their own personal gourmet creations.