Reflections on a milestone — and the launch of something new
One year ago, I officially registered CKcurated as a business. Like many first-time founders, I was both exhilarated and overwhelmed. Building a business, especially one rooted in relationships, creativity, and trust, has felt a bit like building a plane while flying it.
But what a flight it’s been.
In this first year, I’ve had the privilege of helping clients celebrate some of life’s most meaningful milestones with personalized itineraries across 16 destinations — for anniversaries, big birthdays, retirements, family reunions, and quiet personal resets. Together, we’ve crafted journeys that reflect their stories, values, and sense of wonder. And in the process, I’ve learned how to operate a business that doesn’t just plan travel — but curates intentional, beautiful, and deeply personal experiences.
CKcurated was founded on a belief in thoughtful, responsible travel — not repetitive or generic. In a world overwhelmed by over-tourism and cookie-cutter packages, we strive for something more intimate and authentic. We aim to create safe, inclusive experiences for our LGBTQ+ guests and allies, support small producers and artisans, and leave space for surprises, reflection, and joy.
Along the way, I also earned my Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 certification, deepening a lifelong passion for wine with a rigorous foundation in tasting techniques and regional knowledge. I didn’t pursue it just for my own learning. I did it because clients kept asking for more: more meaning in each glass, more off-the-beaten-path discoveries, more moments with real winemakers who could share their stories — not just pour and move on.
One client summed it up best: “We don’t need to wait for a milestone. We just want a beautiful weekend getaway with my besties.”
So, I listened.
I’m excited to announce the official launch of California Wine Excursions — CKcurated’s newest program, shaped by a year of exploration, client feedback, and a lot of heart. These are not traditional wine “tours” — no crowded buses or conveyor-belt tastings at huge corporations. Instead, they are private, bespoke journeys through California’s most compelling AVAs, guided by independent winemakers and growers we’ve come to admire.
From Sonoma’s foggy coastlines to the golden hills of Paso Robles, from mountain vineyards in Santa Cruz to emerging gems like Livermore and Lodi, each excursion is designed around your taste, your story, and your pace. Whether you’re traveling alone, celebrating a big moment, or just looking for a change of scenery — we’ll make it feel like it was made just for you.
No group buses. No tourist traps. Just good wine, good people, and unforgettable places.
You can explore the new program and AVA highlights on our California Wine Excursions page, and follow us on Instagram and YouTube as we share destination snapshots over the coming weeks.
This launch isn’t just a new chapter for CKcurated; it’s a toast to everyone who has supported this journey so far.
Thank you for flying with me. Let’s keep building something meaningful — glass by glass, story by story.
Cheers, CK
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