Mom's greeting committee for her big day Sunday, May 11, can be a six-pack of John, Doc, Jack, Sunny, Piper, and Jasper.
And they're not even close to being dwarves.
The sextet is a set of Clydesdale heavy draft horses owned and operated by Horse Drawn Okanagan, which is offering a more intimate Cupcakes and Clydesdales Mother's Day event featuring tea, sweet treats, live music, and the horses.
The animals are truly a sight to behold, weighing between 1750 and 1900 pounds each, and it’s an arms reach to pat their soft pink noses. They are almost all black in colour with unique white markings and feathered legs. They are curious and affectionate by nature and enjoy meeting people.
“When we do events with the public, whether it’s sleigh rides or wedding carriage rides, people want to meet the horses and see them up close," said Kelly MacIntosh of Horse Drawn Okanagan, event coordinator. "That’s how they connect with our horses. A wagon ride is always good fun, but to be able to stand beside and pet them gives people a different experience. That’s what our Mother’s Day event is all about.”
There will be a long table set alongside the row of stabled horses to sit and enjoy a variety of teas. Each guest will receive a beautifully decorated vanilla and chocolate cupcake made by Cakey Bakey in Vernon, a variety of homemade cookies, a sample bag of savoury nuts from Rancho Vignola, all while celebrating mothers, grandmothers, and anyone who enjoys being in the company of horses.
Guests will also enjoy a live violin performance by a student from the Vernon Community Music School.
There will also be a vintage inspired photo wall to take pictures of the special day. Willow, the donkey, will also be there wearing her floral crown to greet newcomers to the farm.
"Guests are invited to dress up, wear a derby hat or tweed jacket to the farm," said MacIntosh. "The best-dressed guest will be given a hanging basket as a prize."
New this year, guests can purchase local honey from Armstrong Apiaries, pottery from Laurel’s Boutique, teacup arrangements by Silk Flowers by Sue, and Horse Drawn Okanagan Cookbooks as a gift for mom or treat for anyone.
There are two seating times available Sunday, May 11, at 1 and 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person. Pre-registration is required as space is limited to 24 guests at each seating.
The venue is wheelchair accessible and there is parking for shuttles available at the entrance, located at 4735 Grandview Flats Road North, Spallumcheen.
For more information and to purchase tickets, contact MacIntosh at 250-540-7344, or horsedrawnokanagan@gmail.com.
