A distinct blend of lawn bowling, beer, music, and summer evenings is capturing attention in Guelph. Brothers Brewing in downtown Guelph faced challenges due to a significant construction project hindering their summer patio operations and reducing foot traffic. To counter this, the brewery collaborated with the Guelph Lawn Bowling Club to establish a beer garden, proving to be mutually beneficial.
Colton Proveau, co-owner of Brothers Brewing, emphasized the necessity of this partnership as brewery sales plummeted by 50%. The beer garden at the bowling club emerged as a much-needed lifeline for the business. Blake Skinner, the club president, highlighted the added fun element the beer garden brings, attracting newcomers to the sport of lawn bowling.
Mathew and Jenna Holdom, local siblings and longtime patrons of Brothers Brewing, shared their positive experience transitioning from the brewery’s patio to trying out lawn bowling at the new beer garden. They expressed their intention to continue supporting the initiative despite ongoing downtown construction. Similarly, Emily Gibson, a seasoned lawn bowler, lauded the beer garden’s contribution to enhancing the club’s atmosphere and attracting a diverse range of participants, ensuring the sport’s longevity.
The innovative beer garden at the Guelph Lawn Bowling Club is not only revitalizing Brothers Brewing’s operations during construction disruptions but also introducing a new demographic to the traditional sport of lawn bowling. This unique partnership is poised to foster community engagement and enjoyment for years to come.