Return Of Annual Waters Edge Wineries® Owner’s Conference Celebrates Company Growth, Harvesting Success In 2022

Annual conference overview

“This year’s conference was a fulfilling experience as our corporate team, winery owners and valued partners were able to connect with each other, celebrating the outstanding growth and success we’ve seen this past year, while building lasting relationships and strategizing about the exciting future ahead,” said Ken Lineberger, president and CEO of Waters Edge Wineries. “I am so grateful for the support of our owners over the years and their continued effort and creativity to make the brand and the locations successful. I am also appreciative of our sponsors who helped make this conference happen.”

The three-day event began on Sunday, March 20 with a cocktail networking reception featuring a selection of new and existing wines from the brand. Monday’s itinerary began with a keynote address from nationally acclaimed speaker, Bruce Tulgan, who shared successful leadership strategies and tactics. The day continued with several informative sessions from the company’s partners.

Tuesday began with a marketing presentation from the brand’s PR and social media agency, Hemsworth Communications, followed by a field trip to Paso Robles wine country. The group visited Le Vigne Winery and Still Waters Vineyards and Tasting Room where they enjoyed private tastings and tours of the vineyards.

Awards and recognition

The conference concluded with an awards gala and dinner honoring both long-time and new franchise owners in seven categories:

• Operator of the Year: Michelle Dean, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro of Broken Arrow, OK, acknowledged for creating consistent growth in their 5 key areas (wine club, private events, glasses sold, bottles sold and wine labeling) as well as consistent positive reviews

• Innovation Award: Nikki & Trevor Gillig, Gillig Winery, acknowledged for creating an exceptional guest experience; excellent training with new hires and staff

• Most Wine Glasses Sold: Michelle Dean, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro of Broken Arrow, OK, with 24,572 glasses sold in 2021

• Highest Ticket Average: Candice Elliott, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro of Richmond, TX, with an average ticket price of $67.28

• Most Wine Bottles Sold: Michelle Dean, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro of Broken Arrow, OK, with 23,495 bottles sold in 2021

• Noble Cause Award: Angela Zuba, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro of Kalispell, MT, acknowledged for playing a meaningful role in giving back to her local community

• Innovation Award: Collin Mitzenmacher, Waters Edge Winey & Bistro of Long Beach, CA, acknowledged for creating and implementing innovative efforts with virtual tastings and offerings

• Highest Year Over Year Growth: Szilvia Konya, Sable Gate Winery, with a 95.4% growth increase

“It was a privilege to be together again in person, celebrating our owners’ successes from 2021 as we look towards continued growth this year,” continued Ken.