I debated about writing this because this is a black-owned business. But honestly, just because you are black-owned doesn't mean you shouldn't strive to provide an excellent experience. I purchased a table for my family and friends to attend the Sip & Swirl Events in Livermore. We were excited to attend. We were told we would be in a VIP section and receive wristbands. This experience was supposed to include a table covering, ice bucket, charcuterie board, and a small centerpiece. We were also supposed to get pours from Staff Walking Through The Event. We were also told that VIP guests Did NOT need to check in with general admission. They stated that my guests and I would go straight to the VIP area, which would be near the event center. Our table would have my name on it, as well as eight pink wristbands. Since there were so many issues, I will list the points. The event started at 4 pm, and at 1:37 pm, I received an email stating that the event truck was broken into and all items for the event were stolen. She requested that we bring chairs, blankets, food, and wine glasses. When we arrived at the event, no one was there to greet or direct us. There was no check-in table, and I had to ask other event attendees who was running the event. After 10 minutes of searching for the host, I showed her my ticket and asked where my table was. She looked confused, walked away, and never returned. I then began to walk around the event to see if I could locate the table. I finally found my table with my name on a pink Party City wine bag, but they were still setting up my table. Which appeared to be an afterthought as we were separate from all the other tables. I then had to chase the host down again to get the wristbands for my guest. I asked about the charcuterie because, in the email, she said she had the items, just no boards. She responded she had the things but no boards, as they were stolen. However, she was trying to figure out a plan. Mind you, we never got any salami! There was no wine to sip or swirl as no one was working the event. They had two bars located clear across from our table. The lines were super long, and we were expected to stand in line for one pour. I made the best of the situation, so I went inside Wente and purchased wine for the table and two charcuterie boards. Only to be approached by someone who identified themselves as a helper of the host, stating that I could not bring outside wine into the event. Well, one, it's not outside wine; I purchased it at Wente Vineyards, and two, what do you expect us to do, sit at the table and wait for the non-existent workers to pour the non-existent wine? The DJ could not turn up the music until 6 p.m. due to other patrons at the winery who were not a part of our event, our table was clear across the other side. We were unable to hear the music. One of the event attendees had a medical emergency, and there was no event staff to be found. EMS was called, and the Wente staff had to come and assist her, and they were very helpful. Also, I'm still unclear; the host says her truck was broken into while she had lunch. So the event started at 4 pm. At noon, shouldn't you be at the event setting up and not getting lunch? I don't know. Maybe I'm a skeptic, but it sounds wild to me. Lastly, even if all your items were stolen, that doesn't account for you not having anyone working the event. Were the event staff stolen out of the truck as well? She also could have publicly addressed the attendees and said something to us to help us understand the flow of the event. It just appeared like we gathered together and all wore pink, but no one was there to organize. I'll say this: Our community always knows how to pivot and have a good time despite everything. I saw folks having pizzas delivered and buying wine. I know the Wente staff appreciated our purchases. The whole team at Wente was terrific, and they were very helpful! This is in no way a reflection of their service and their beautiful property. I plan to go to Wente again as the wine was excellent, and their staff were amazing! read more

I sent the following email to the host, April: "Hi there - due to the unfortunate turn of events at Wente on Sunday, I'd like a refund. I bought 3 tickets & 3 "wine pass" wristbands. Because we were told not to bring certain items, we didn't. So we had to resort to using a plastic table covering as our "blanket" and borrow wine glasses from Wente. In addition, the wine "ran out" before we could use our "wine pass", so that resulted in us spending an extra $100 on Wente wine. No one even checked us in or provided an update to what was going on, so we really could have gone for free, but certainly not for damn near $100 per person. I'm sorry to hear about your van being broken into and the items stolen. Hopefully you can understand where I (& several other attendees who I've seen be vocal on social media about Sunday) are coming from w/ asking for a refund, especially since not much was or has been done to make up for it." No response yet. read more

I wish I could leave zero stars. The owner scammed hundreds of people out of their money. She didn't provide what was promised and paid for. read more

I attended the Rose Soirée in Livermore and I feel like the event (sip and swirl) was poorly organized and disappointing. I purchased a general admission ($60) and a wine wristband ($25) which was supposed to include a blanket and at least a wine glass (I believe there was more promised as well). Approximately two hours before the event, the hosts sends an email and posts to social media that her truck was broken into while having lunch and all of the promised items for attendees were stolen. Sounded unusual and she reported that she didn't want to cancel and that she'll make this right. When arriving to the event, there was no checkin, no signs, nothing to help attendees. I found dirty packaged plastics cups on the ground to use for wine glasses with no servers or event coordinators around. Then I found the host who gave me a wristband but for the wrong ticket. She wasn't checking ID's or what items were purchased and blindly gave me a wristband. There weren't any servers serving wine and only two bars with very long lines were open. We had to wait at least 20 min for a glass of wine. I found many VIP attendees acting as their own servers when service was promised. If they didn't do this, then they would not receive any wine. I tired to contact the host afterwards to report my disappointment and she has not responded. I find it strange since she was so quick to report the car theft but has not found the time to reply to the attendees who paid for her event. So I am very disappointed. The location (wente) was fantastic and their staff were great. read more

I bought tickets to the Rose Soirée ($45 + taxes and processing fees). It was advertised to be at 16th street station. Then the location was Forage Kitchen. Then 14th street. Then on the day of the event, I see a note posted on the door of the 14th street location telling us to all go to another place on Broadway. I go up to what looks like a disused office space. And I am met with a sad room. Sparse Safeway Select party trays and Ritz crackers. Five bottles of rose you can get anywhere. No outdoor space. No keepsake glass. No signature cocktails. No one to even check tickets as people came in. Some weird hotep artwork. I left almost immediately. I want my money back. This is a full on scam. I will be contacting my bank to see if I can dispute the charge. read more

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The host was horrible host. Nothing was organized even after she claimed that her car got broken into which it was BS. She could've gave half of our money back never was we checked in nor was giving a wristband and how do they run out of wine when you have people paying extra for wristband. Straight scammed. It wasn't worth it either plus the least she could've done is buy more wine, cheap one at least for those who paid for unlimited wine. I was definitely not satisfied nor she responded to emails. read more

I attended the Sip and Swirl in Livermore When I say I was extremely disappointed. I'm dealing with a foot injury so when I receive an email that said I could purchase an All Day Wine Pass, that included UNLIMITED Wine Throughout The Event By Just Showing Your Wristband! Also Let's You Get Pours From Staff Walking Through The Event, for $25 it was a no-brainer. BAAAABBYYYYY!!! When I tell you it was nothing that was advertised!!! Upon arrival there was no check in table, no one to check in with and received my wristband. When I say no one literally no one what so ever. I literally had to track down the hostess myself to check in and receive my wristband. Once I received my wristband I returned to my area patiently waiting to see someone walk through the event area pouring wine. Not once did I see anyone walking through the event area pouring wine as advertised in the email I received and I quote again just in case you missed it above: ‍ "Your $25 Rosé All Day Wine Pass Allows You To Enjoy UNLIMITED Wine Throughout The Event By Just Showing Your Wristband! It Also Let's You Get Pours From Staff Walking Through The Event." I was forced to stand in an extremely long line to receive a glass of wine only to be informed all the wine was gone. They literally ran out of wine half way through your event. Oh did I mention that 3 hours before the event I saw a video the Hostess posted stating her truck was broken into while she was having lunch. Having lunch with a truck full of supplies in the Bay Area. Have you not seen and heard of car breakins and if you took the time to record the message why not show your vehicle? Ok Ok, I get that you may have been shaking reasonably so but what happened to your staff? Even if and I did say IF. If you were shaken that why you have staff in place to get stuff done. (Am I the only person who thinks like this, I mean I work with events planners and caterers. I have also put together a few events myself. When you have a staff even if one person is not at 100% the team come together and makes thing happen right right? Oh it's just me that thinks this way ok, ok back to the telling you about this gathering I attended.) I literally saw NO ONE in any kind of staff capacity during this event. So since there was no staff walking around the area, pouring wine as advertised attendees had the option of standing in not one but two extremely long lines to receive a single glass of wine, but wait, they ran out of wine. YES, a wine event with no wine can you believe it? I can't and I spent $85 to attend. The only enjoyment came from seeing all the beautiful faces and some people I haven't seen in years. My extremely swollen and painful foot due to unforeseen walking and standing could have been prevented if what was advertised was actually in fact in place. I have sent an email requesting my money back the host April Richmond apologize for all the mishaps and insured me. I will receive my money back . As of today I have received nothing and the event host has block all lines of communication. DO NOT PURCHASE ANY EVENTS WITH THIS WOMAN!!! read more

DO NOT PATRONIZE SIP & SWIRL est. in Oakland! We set up our own reimbursement via the camp ground which they agreed to 10% back due to uncomfortable accommodations. They returned it to Sip and Swirl and she kept it! Getting extra pay from our bad experience. Sip and Swirl refused to reimburse us for the services we didn't receive per their itinerary, less than adequate food and little to no activities per the package. When we reached out to the owner, April Redmond failed to respond, blocked us from her phone (209) 423-7712 and social media. We still haven't received our reimbursement or even acknowledgment that she's sorry for taking our money. At least apologize! read more

My friend and I were not able to attend the glampout in Cloverdale a few weeks ago, my friend contacted April at Sip & Swirl events. She was told we would receive a refund and someone would get back to us. It's been 2 weeks and after us calling and emailing April and the general Sip & swirl email no on has gotten back to us. I have tried all means to get in touch with them but still nothing. They are still posting on their Facebook page which means someone is active but they can't message us back? All this is very shady and it doesn't seem like they want to give us our money back. My friend also called and left April a voicemail and she never got a call back. Do not attend Sip and Swirl events, they just want to rip you off! Update-- Never hears back from Sip & Swirl events, we NEVER got our money back. One of my friends will go through the BBB to see about our refunds. read more

Rose Soirée event planners scammed all ticket purchasers out of $40! Sip & Swirl needs to refund everyone & investigate this event planner (April?) It was not as advertised & nothing close to a $40 value read more

Use another event planner or do it yourself. You will be promised one thing and not get anything. We were due a independent refund from the facility due to inadequate accommodations. The refund was completed but needed to go back to the host credit card (April) the funds were transferred but we never received any correspondence back from April and she blocked us from communications, via email, phone, etc. She kept our refund! and failed to communicate anything to us about receiving our money back. My group fully paid for all amenities and facilities for the Glamp Out Event in June 2018. We were excited and then very disappointed. We were with the understanding that we would have had 2 functional queen size beds similar to the ones in the picture that sold us on deciding to attend and that was not the case. We were provided one queen bed and a bunk bed that only one bunk was accessible (the bottom). The top bunk was up too high for all of us who are challenged with climbing and the tent ceiling was draping into the bunk, making it useless and inoperable. Therefore, we had to utilize the uncomfortable and rustic couch, as a bed. We also struggled with why our cabin front door was clamped shut (it had a broken zipper), rendering us to have to use the back door only to enter in and out, when the other Glampers were able to use both back and front doors. Lastly, our heater did not shut off, so we were extremely uncomfortable at times. To be honest, we did not feel we received what we paid for. Our accommodations were inadequate for our group of 4. We actually expressed our discontent to the front office and they referred us back to you, being our host and coordinator of the Glamp Out via group sales, as mentioned above. In addition to this, according to an email dated 5-15-18 we were supposed to have had on-going activities and a few meals, inclusive of a scavenger hunt, yoga both days and a farewell breakfast on Sunday. The meals were horrible, BBQ Friday night which ran out and not everyone ate. Saturday breakfast was late with cold oatmeal and fruit, bread for us to take back to our tents to toast and sausage. Dinner was interesting, Mexican style food with no salsa or cheese. It was like it was thrown together. Those of us who didn't leave before 7am on Sunday walked around wondering what the itinerary was and we were unable to find April. Since, her wagon with supplies from the day before was picked up, we figured she was still there. Our check out time was 11am, so we soon packed up and left at 10:30am. We thought our Glamp Out fees covered the last days activities and breakfast, but apparently, it did not cover anything on Sunday, and left us confused. We were not able to tell her thank you or good bye and felt that that was very unprofessional. She never communicated any type of change of plans or nothing. Its sad, but this is what happened to us and still nothing. I do not recommend at all ever again! read more

I attended the Rose Sorie last night and it was a disaster. The venue changed three times within hours of the event and once we found the actual location it was set up like an office party no one wanted to plan or attend. No winery representation or explanations about the wines, just two ladies pouring wine they bought at Trader Joes. Small bites were advertised , what we got was 4 plastic plates on a table with some interesting (and not in a good way) low budget choices. No dancing, no souvenir wine glass! Don't waste your money on any of these future events. read more

This was a total scam. The venue changed four times. If you took an Uber or Lift, you spent money and then some. Finally got there to walk into a semi-empty room with horrible green carpeting in the back room of a co-working space. The food (five plastic trays) if you call it that was something purchased at Cosco or made at home. The wine was by the case and probably purchased for $5 a bottle. No dancing, no ambiance, no wine glass to take home as advertised. It was not at all worth $40. I could have went out to a nice dinner with a great bottle of wine for $40 and the Uber costs. Thumbs totally down on this read more

Where do I start. This was my first event with sip and swirl I was very excited about my upcoming glamping weekend with my sister's and girlfriends once we arrived our camp leader April was nowhere onsite to meet us. Secondly April the scheduled Bbq was a disaster she did no provide enough food group accommodate those who wanted to eat. Thirdly the accommodations were not up to par we couldn't enter through the front of the tent due to the fact that the zipper was broken so when the maintenance crew finally did show up they used small binder clips to close the tent April was aware and she did nothing. Needless to this is just a few issues that took place...We've in been in constant contact with April via emails and text messages regarding this matter but yet to hear back from her. You can be believe the next glamping outing I do will definitely not be with her! read more

I sent an inquiry regarding a private winery tour. I received a response from April. She provided a couple of options. I followed up with my group to see which option we wanted. I then responded to April with our selection. Several days passed and I did not receive a response. I sent another email to follow up and again no response. It's okay we took our $1500 elsewhere. This was a very special occasion as we were celebrating a 20 year anniversary and she tried to ruin it. read more

I really enjoyed my Sunday wine tasting and meeting new people! Can't wait for the next event! read more

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To those of you that gave favorable reviews obviously had a much better experience than we did on our event June 8-10. The ladies in our cabin were greeted with unfavorable accommodations that were opposite what we'd expected. One Queen size bed and bunk beds does not make for comfort when you have 4 women, 3 of which are over the age of 50 and with limitations. Our host provided what was supposed to be a "barbecue" that a good majority of us did not get food due to the lack of planning from the host. Breakfast was provided Saturday morning, however, we were provided oatmeal, sausages (some were not fully cooked)...this also caused most in the group to not eat as most do not normally eat oatmeal or pork products. Dinner however that evening was very lackluster as well and our final breakfast was never provided prior to our departure on Sunday. If you plan on attending any events and are not treated as honored guest and request any type of refund through the host be assured that you will be told you'll be reimbursed but only the host will not issue your credit as she has promised through email transmissions. If ever I chose to do an event of this nature it certainly will not be through sip & swirl events! read more

Wonderful event in Oakland with urban winemakers, found a new favorite wine from Charles Winery called symphony. The band was really good and kept the event lively, only complaint was I expected more vendors and small bites for the price, but overall a good time. Would definitely attend another event read more

Sip & Swirl Events - Urban Wine Tasting Sip and Swirl event - Wine Tours Near Me

This company shouldn't be in business! I attended their Rosé Soiree event that was a scam. The venue changed multiple times up until the day of the event. The actual location was in a co-working space where guests were met with grocery store food platters and a single pour station. Not the multiple winery and catered event advertised. I paid $45 plus a processing fee for my ticket. For that same price, I could have had a full meal at a decent restaurant with a glass of Rosé. read more

Rose Soree event had rose but no Soree! The event space changed 3 times PRIOR to the event only to change HOURS before the actual event. The "light" bites" were Safeway party trays. The venue was not what I pictured in my head. Rose is from any place, not wineries. I would like my money back ($47) as soon as possible. I will not be going to any more events by Sip & Swril read more

I had tickets to two mystery wine tours, one in April and one today. For the event in April, I contacted them repeated and got no reply. I didn't know if we missed the bus, the event got cancelled or whatever, I reached out to them on Facebook, Messenger and called and got absolutely no reply. Guess what happened today???? The exact same thing. I don't know if they are out of business or what but I am out $100+ bucks for 4 tickets. Never again! I tried filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau but they aren't even listed. This is not how you do business! I would give negative stars if I could. read more

Bottom line - the event Rose Soiree was a reach far beyond this service provider's grasp. I organize a large meet-up group, and brought 9 women with me to an event titled, "Rose Soiree." Billed at the time I posted the event as a winery tasting of rose wines, with small bites, no-host cocktail bar, and a commemorative glass at a cool venue where there would be a DJ and dancing - and coming with a $40 ticket, this Rose Soiree turned out to be in an unventilated work-share space in Oakland, with a few appetizers, and what appeared to be a variety of grocery store rose wines. No one checked tickets at the door, or invited us in, and there was no actual tasting - just bottles of different roses on a table poured in a glass - this was totally janky. We should have figured it out when the address of the venue changed the day before the event - and then AGAIN, the night of the event. There was not a person in that space who was not disappointed. Except the one "volunteer" who loved it. When confronted, April - if that is her name - said the commemorative glass would be mailed to everyone - even though she had no addresses for any of us. When asked where the dancing would be, and where the event that was promised - she just said mollifying things that did not jibe with the REALITY of where we were and what was going on. read more

ANOTHER FABULOUS event! Just returning from a Santa Barabara/ Solvang weekend wine event. Did not want to head to bed without giving a huge "Shout Out" and "Thanks" to April for a delightful time. Well put together with superb details, like mimosas in wine sip cups, to the lovely gift boxes. Love is in the details and a lot of love went into planning this excursion. The dinner selection, lunch, private tastings and tour...EVERYTHING was fantastic! read more

I have participated in many of her events. The winery's we have visited have been great. One of my favorites is Cline which I believe is in Sonoma. Also try the winery across the road from them (can't remember the name). April plans everything out for you. Just show up ready for a fun time. I like her way of doing things. Check out her events. read more

Last evening I unfortunately attended the Rose Soirée event hosted by April. The event was so poorly organized and executed. It began with a series of relocations of the event all within hours of the event. That should have been a clue that things likely would not get better. We eventually arrived at the Oakstop venue on Broadway to a near empty room of disappointed guests and two women pouring Rose from any local grocery shelf. No description at all of the wine being served. The "small bites" were 4-5 plastic plates of cheese, veggies, cold cuts on skewers, something you might create when you are clearing out the fridge before you go on vacation. No signs of a souvenir glass or outdoor dancing as advertised. It felt like we had all been hoodwinked into believing we would be attending an enjoyable evening of wine, food, and music. Unfortunately in perusing the Yelp reviews, April should likely not continue as a wine event planner. My observation was that she was unapologetic and resorted to half truths when confronted by attendees about the misrepresentation of what the evening would be. I will certainly be cautious in considering future events with Sip and Swirl. read more

Spent a wonderful day, with wonderful women, drinking wonderful wines. Even had time for a little shopping. Hats off to April for her organizing skills and knowledge of wines. Looking forward to the next event. read more

I bought a $45 ticket for the Rose Soiree which was advertised with the 16th Street Station as the venue. Shortly before the event this was replaced with another location, followed by two more locations being mentioned via email and on the event page. Big red flags, but I was hopeful it might still be nicely pulled off. The event was a disaster. The room looked like an abandoned office. The tables were covered in cheap plastic table clothes. The food, advertised as "hot bites" were cheap trays from Safeway. I do not understand why nothing about this event was as advertised, especially since it was marketed for a very long time, more than enough time to either get it together or cancel and give refunds. I would hope that the business owner understands that saying "no refunds" doesn't eliminate the responsibility you have to deliver what you claimed you were providing...it should really ONLY mean, no refunds if your plans change, not no refunds if I pull a switcheroo and deliver a subpar event with the money you paid. Keeping our money and providing no apology or explanation is a serious moral and ethical failing on her part. I cannot believe that at serious business owner would fail this publicly and not want to make it right. Refund the money you were paid. You didn't provide the event you advertised, and definitely ruined your reputation as a business person for everyone who bought tickets. read more

I had Sip and Swirls at a pop up party at my Salon and April was AWESOME! She was so informative about the wines and how to do a tasting. I didn't know much about different wines so I learned a lot from the swirl technique to the different glasses to use for each wine. If you haven't been to one of her events your missing out!!!! I can't wait for the next one!! read more

Truly, truly amazing from start to finish. Great wineries along the way. Fantastic atmosphere, and a great way to meet new people. April is super sweet, and is very professional. read more

I contacted April to help me set up a surprise 40th birthday for my sister and it was nothing short of perfect. She worked with me to get a party bus to transport us to Napa and have a fabulous day sipping wine and touring Napa Valley for some of our out of town guests. She was so accommodating and very professional. Her knowledge about the wines was very impressive and informative. Please do yourself a favor and go to one of the events with sip & swirl. read more