Three years ago, entrepreneur Katie Hamilton Shaffer opened her live TV studio, wine tasting collective, and experiential showroom—kind of like a Pinterest board come to life where you can purchase chic home furnishings from brands like Gibson, Sherwin Williams, and OXO—in Napa's Oxbow District. Called the Studio by Feast it Forward, Shaffer partnered with more than a dozen boutique wineries that didn't have tasting rooms of their own to offer wines and tastings in eclectic vignettes, both indoors and out, with a whimsical, no-fuss approach unlike anywhere else in Wine Country.
During the pandemic, she launched Wineland, consisting of cozy Covid-friendly igloos and restaurant pop-ups to support local establishments that didn't have their own outdoor space. And then she had an "a-ha" moment.
The Yard by Feast it Forward is her latest concept, launching October 10th in the once-empty parking lot next door to the studio. The goal: to recreate the vibes of "Coachella or BottleRock year-round," Shaffer says.
The scene is set with a large stage, astroturf grounds, picnic tables, lawn games, food trucks, and a bar. A pair of double-decker shipping containers contain posh lounges: one from Layne Family Wines is designed like a stylish living room, while the B. Wise Vineyards lounge is set to host restaurant and chef popups. Modeled after BottleRock's premium Skydeck suites, the top decks will be utilized for VIP viewing for groups (by reservation). An Acre Wines & Gibson Guitar Lounge, housed in an epic military vehicle, is also open for jam sessions.
Though not open to the public, visitors won't be able to miss the white 1891 farmhouse on the property. A former brothel, Shaffer gave it a head-to-toe, speakeasy-inspired renovation for use as a private members club.
The Yard, which will soon have a beer garden, too, will be open Thursdays through Sundays for sipping and leisurely hanging, but will come most alive during public and private events. The space will host everything from brand activations—think sip and stretch session from Lululemon—to Sunday football watch parties to intimate concerts (Shaffer promises high-profile bands) and Broadway shows.
// The Yard by Feast it Forward hosts its grand opening party on Sunday, October 10th from 2pm to 6pm, tickets ($20/adults, kids are free) are available online; 1031 McKinstry St. (Napa), feastitforward.com.
