Meet Nadene! Her family has a beautiful property that is a perfect location for your wedding reception!
Photo Credit: Nadene Casorso
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Born in Saskatchewan & raised in Kelowna.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My family… I guess that’s several ‘persons.’ My husband makes me laugh daily, not only with him but sometimes at him & my four kids also have inherited a great sense of humour. I’m the least funny but the most entertained by far!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
I really like thrift stores (like Mission Thrift store) and antique stores because I like to re-use, repurpose & find things that are unique. I also love Olive & Elle for new stuff.
Describe yourself in one word.
Practical.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
The walk on the Boardwalk by the water is one off my favourite things to do with my husband or a friend
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Fainting in public is right up there!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Most inspiring thing that has happened to me was having friends who lost homes in the Okanagan Mountain Park fire and witnessing them rebuild from nothing. Also equally inspiring was how people came together and supported one another. I think we all realized what an amazing community we have here. At least I did!
Photo Credit: Nadene Casorso
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Spending time on my grandparents farm on the prairies. I drove the tractor around years before I could actually (legally) drive. Didn’t have a care in the world when I was there.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
One of the things I do is volunteer our property for Immaculata photography students each year to take family photos as a fundraiser. They are really talented & I love supporting the Arts program.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
This is such a hard one. I wish it said what are five things you would change. But I guess if I could change one thing it would be to care for the environment better so it’s a healthy world for future generations.
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
I like riding my bike on the greenway by myself.
Where would you like to see a positive change in Kelowna and why?
I think Kelowna could use a lot more places for young families and children. There used to be so many places to go! (Flinstones,Old McDonalds farm, roller rink, water slides etc)
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
All the orchards, vineyards, beaches & natural beauty. Sometimes we forget how blessed we are to live here.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Most of my bucket list involves places I’d still like to travel to. Like Greece, Alaska and Australia.
Photo Credit: Nadene Casorso
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I’m a lot more shy than people would ever guess.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
Instagram, Facebook & through our website (Brook & Barn)
What is the name of your business/organization?
Brook & Barn – Casorso Heritage Farm
Why did you get into this business?
I was ready for a change & wanted to be my own boss & wanted to work around home.
What is the goal of your business?
That everyone who comes to Brook & Barn leaves having had an amazing experience especially couples getting married here. I want their day to be everything & more that they could imagine
Photo Credit: Nadene Casorso
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
My biggest struggle is not believing in myself and abilities enough .
If you could start all over again, would you do things the same or would things be different?
I would do the same. I believe you learn from everything in your past to bring you where you need to be today
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
My husband told me this when I was thinking of hosting events at our farm: ‘If it doesn’t excite you AND terrify you, it’s not worth doing.’
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
I think the Queen would be fun… imagine the stories she has!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Shopping local is good for the environment & good for building community & the local economy.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Raising four wonderful humans to adulthood.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My daughter Amanda who manages events for Brook & Barn. Her level of professionalism & know-how really makes me proud.
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Reins & Pours Mobile Bar Co.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
