Sweet Future for Ottawa-GatineauNew Owner of Le Vignoble de Chelsea Envisions Agritourism HubKickstarts Dream with Crowdfunding Campaign for Upgrades to Maple Syrup Facility

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PRESS RELEASE

Ottawa, Ontario, September 4, 2024: In December of 2023, Derick Cotnam, CEO and Founder of My Catering Group (MCG) acquired Le Vignoble de Chelsea with a vision to transform the property into a sustainable agritourism hub and a venue for farm-to-table catered events. A crowdfunding campaign and a collaborative culinary event mark the beginning of the journey towards a new major asset for the community.

Nestled on 22 acres between Chelsea and Wakefield, the picturesque vineyard and sugar bush boast a rich history and abundant natural resources. Upgrading the existing Sugar Shack is a pivotal step towards preserving the property’s cultural heritage and inviting the community to enjoy its delicious, local maple syrup in a way that's both efficient and eco-friendly.

To make this happen MCG has teamed up with La Ruche, Québec’s #1 crowdfunding platform, to help the already well-established catering company engage and galvanize the community to tap into the full agritourism potential of Le Vignoble de Chelsea. Through their matched funding program, every dollar raised from now until the end of September 2024, will go directly toward purchasing the needed equipment. The month-long community campaign culminates with an exclusive event at the vineyard to reward campaign contributors and celebrate community.  

The Party with a Purpose

On Sunday, September 29th from 4 to 8 pm, supporters who contribute $150 to the La Ruche campaign have exclusive access to the Party with a Purpose. This unforgettable evening produced in collaboration with supportive community partners, includes a Sugar Shack inspired feast with food and beverages prepared and served by the MCG team, Juniper Farm, Distillerie du Square, Apiverte, and Chelsea Microbrasserie. A live music stage presented by Chelsea-based Willow Sound Records will feature performances by Jessica Pearson and the East Wind and a rare performance by Willow Sound owner and artist Tara Shannon, who is also Executive Director of the Ottawa Festival Network.

Community Investment with Double the Impact 

For those who prioritize sustainability and want to support Le Vignoble de Chelsea and MCG’s long-term plan of turning the vineyard into a tourism offering for agri and eco tourists alike, investment through La Ruche will be matched dollar for dollar and contributors will receive the following tangible benefits.  

$150 - One ticket to the September 29, 2024 Harvest Feast

$80 - One ticket to our first Sugar Shack Dinner (Spring 2025)

$25 - A bottle of Le Vignoble maple syrup (Spring 2025)

$15 – Contributor’s name honoured in the Sugar Shack

Visit  Le Vignoble de Chelsea

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Media Contact 

Mary Jelley

Knock on Wood Communications + Events

mary@kowpr.com

613-791-6703

About My Catering Group

From its modest start in 2012 at founder Derick Cotnam’s home in Stittsville, MCG has grown into one of Ottawa’s premier full-service catering companies. Specializing in weddings, corporate, and diplomatic events, MCG delivers outstanding food and beverage experiences, collaborating seamlessly with planners, venues, and other vendors to ensure flawless events, regardless of size. Additionally, MCG’s modern food trucks offer mobile food and bar services at festivals and events. As a preferred vendor for some of Ottawa-Gatineau’s top venues, MCG is the first private business to manage all food service contracts for the federally owned museums and galleries in downtown Ottawa.

About le Vignoble de Chelsea

Le Vignoble de Chelsea, located just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa, is an events venue, Sugar Shack, and developing vineyard owned by My Catering Group (MCG). Acquired by MCG's CEO, Derick Cotnam, in December 2023, the 22-acre property is being transformed into a hub for agritourism and farm-to-table events. Le Vignoble de Chelsea features a rustic dining hall and terrace overlooking the vineyard, offering a personalized setting for weddings, corporate events, and family gatherings. Guests can enjoy in-house chef-prepared dishes, summer terrace dining, and special events like maple-inspired Sugar Shack brunches and dinners. MCG aims to develop Le Vignoble de Chelsea as a premier tourism attraction and event venue, enhancing its catering services and promoting local culture and cuisine.