Client Story

Laughing Stock Vineyards

Owner:  David and Cynthia Enns
Location:  Penticton, BC

The Business

Recognized as producing one of Canada’s Icon Wines (Vine Magazine), Laughing Stock Vineyards of Penticton, BC, quickly established itself as a wildly successful business in a high-risk industry shortly after releasing its first wines in 2005.

Laughing Stock wines are carried in restaurants and wine stores in Vancouver and Whistler, and are also enjoyed by wine tourists who frequently visit the Naramata Bench ¬– known as the epicenter of quality grape growing in BC.

The Founders

Originally in the investment industry, Laughing Stock founders David and Cynthia Enns gave up their previous careers for a new pursuit based on their love of good wine.  They purchased their Naramata Bench property in 2003, moved to Penticton and built the winery of their dreams, where they currently produce 5,000 cases of wine each year.

The Small Business BC Connection

Like many small business owners in BC, David and Cynthia found getting involved with local business support organizations to be beneficial.  Groups such as Small Business BC and the Chamber of Commerce offer a variety of opportunities for small businesses to network and event find financial and operational assistance.  Specifically, David and Cynthia have taken advantage of their local Chamber of Commerce’s medical insurance plan, recruiting assistance and advice on how to get provincial funding for staff training.

Entrepreneurial Advice

For those interested in working in the wine industry, Cynthia points out that high start up costs, including pricey real estate, may deter new winery development.   Instead, she recommends starting businesses in the wine industry support sector, such as high-end accommodations, restaurants, wine education, wine tourism and cooking schools.

In terms of doing business in Penticton, Cynthia notes these benefits:

  • The Penticton Chamber of Commerce offers fabulous support options for small businesses.
  • Marketing associations like the Naramata Bench Winery Association and Discover Naramata are well positioned to leverage smaller business promotional dollars.
  • The cost of living in the area is low.
  • Penticton is a great place to raise a family with many opportunities for outdoor recreation.