Event Experience: Ken Lavigne Concert Series with The Kirkby Group
At The Kirkby Group, we believe in creating memorable experiences that bring our clients together. Over the past years, we have had the pleasure of hosting a series of exclusive concert events featuring acclaimed tenor Ken Lavigne, whose voice and charisma have delighted audiences across North America.
We have hosted three signature concerts with Ken Lavigne, two of which were held at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford. These evenings were designed to offer our clients and partners an exceptional cultural experience, complete with gourmet appetizers, wine, and the opportunity to connect in a relaxed and elegant setting.
Our events welcomed over 200 guests, including clients, their families, and our valued banking partners. The concerts featured Ken Lavigne’s celebrated show, 3 Knights with a Tenor, weaving together the music of legends like Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Paul McCartney, and Sir Elton John.
Client feedback has been overwhelmingly positive:
“Fabulous... enjoyed every minute and the goodies afterward were also very nice.”
“Thoroughly enjoyable! Ken was superb, the band was awesome, and their interaction second to none.”
“Thank you for sharing Ken’s beautiful talent with us!”
“Absolutely wonderful. Bring him back anytime.”
“The show was great, the price was right, the food was best.”
Upcoming: Private Christmas Concert – Winter 2025
Building on the success of our previous events, we are excited to announce our upcoming Private Christmas Concert in winter 2025, once again featuring Ken Lavigne. This exclusive event will be hosted at the enchanting Secret Garden of Ripples Winery, offering an intimate atmosphere for our clients to celebrate the holiday season.
Guests will enjoy an afternoon of festive music, gourmet appetizers, and fine beverages, surrounded by the warmth of our community. The event promises to be a highlight of the year, continuing our tradition of thoughtful hospitality and unforgettable entertainment.
About Ken Lavigne
Ken Lavigne is renowned for his blend of classical tenor and modern style, with a career that includes a debut at Carnegie Hall, performances with David Foster, and shows for royalty. His ability to engage and inspire audiences makes every concert a truly special occasion. Learn more about Ken at kenlavigne.com.
Event Experience: A Morning with Brian Minter
The Kirkby Investment Team was delighted to host an exclusive event, A Morning with Brian Minter, at the Hampton Inn in Chilliwack. This special gathering brought together clients and guests for an engaging and educational experience with one of British Columbia’s most respected gardening experts.
Event Highlights
Brian Minter, renowned for his decades-long influence in the BC gardening community and recipient of the Order of Canada, led the morning with a dynamic presentation. He shared practical insights into the art of combining plants in gardens and planters, drawing from his extensive experience as an author, columnist, and former owner of the world-famous Minter Gardens.
The event featured a slide show and live demonstrations, allowing attendees to see firsthand how to create beautiful and harmonious plant arrangements.
Guests enjoyed light refreshments, including coffee, tea, fruit trays, and breakfast pastries, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The session concluded with a lively Q&A, where participants asked follow-up questions and interacted directly with Brian.
Event Experience: Aging Well – Local Support & Care Options
We're committed to empowering our clients with knowledge and resources for every stage of life. In 2017, we hosted our Aging Well: Support and Care Options event at The Reach Gallery in Abbotsford, bringing together clients and guests for an evening of education, connection, and practical guidance.
Event Overview
Our Aging Well event was designed to help clients and their families navigate the many choices available for senior care and support in the Fraser Valley. The session featured three expert presentations followed by a robust Q&A panel and time for one-on-one conversations with speakers.
Featured Speakers & Topics
Sarah S, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Fraser Health
Shared insights on accessing public healthcare services, including home health supports, system navigation, and eligibility for government-funded programs.
Danny B, Managing Partner, Nurse Next Door
Provided an overview of private in-home care options, from daily living assistance to specialized nursing, companionship, and respite care. Emphasized flexibility, personalized service, and the ability to age in place.
Marie L, Chartwell Retirement Residences
Explained the spectrum of senior living options, from independent living to assisted and memory care, and discussed how to choose the right residence for individual needs.
Topics Covered
Public Health Services: How to access home support, nursing, rehabilitation, and palliative care through Fraser Health.
Private In-Home Care: Services such as meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, medication reminders, and post-surgery support.
Retirement Living: Independent and assisted living, memory care, short-term stays, and the process for transitioning to a retirement residence.
Community Programs: Introduction to Meals on Wheels, Community Drivers, and other local resources.
Event Experience
Attendees were welcomed with refreshments and a comfortable setting, with opportunities to ask questions directly to the speakers and collect informational materials. The panel format encouraged open dialogue and tailored advice, ensuring every participant left with actionable information for themselves or their loved ones.
Why This Matters
As our clients and their families consider the future, understanding the full range of care options is essential for peace of mind and quality of life. The Aging Well event reflects our dedication to providing holistic support, not only in financial matters but in the broader aspects of well-being.
If you are interested in learning more about senior care options or wish to attend future educational events, please contact your Kirkby Group advisor. We are here to support you in every chapter of life.
Event Experience: Twilight on the Green – An Evening with Elvis
We're proud to highlight two of our most memorable client appreciation events: Twilight on the Green – An Evening with Elvis. These high-class gatherings brought together clients, guests, and partners for unforgettable evenings of music, dining, and community.
Event Highlights
Venue: Both events were held at the beautiful outdoor pavilion of the Chilliwack Golf Club, offering guests panoramic views of lush greens and the Cascade Mountains. The setting provided an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for summer evening celebrations.
Entertainment: Guests were treated to a world-class performance by renowned Elvis tribute artist Steve Elliot. His dynamic stage presence, authentic voice, and signature moves brought the spirit of young Elvis to life, engaging the crowd and filling the dance floor.
Culinary Experience: Each event featured an open bar and a selection of gourmet appetizers and desserts. Wine flowed freely, and guests enjoyed a variety of delicious bites while mingling with friends and colleagues.
Feedback: The response was overwhelmingly positive. Guests praised the entertainment, venue, and hospitality. The atmosphere was described as outstanding, with many noting the event was a true standout among client appreciation experiences.
Event Experience: Community Growth Tours – Abbotsford & Chilliwack
We are dedicated to connecting our clients with the communities we serve. In June 2019, we hosted two exclusive bus tours in Abbotsford and Chilliwack, each offering a unique, insider’s perspective on the region’s vibrant growth and transformation.
Abbotsford on the Rise: Guided City Tour
Our “Abbotsford on the Rise” tour provided clients with a first-hand look at the exciting changes shaping the city’s future followed by a delicious lunch at Fieldhouse Brewing.
Morning with the Mayor: Chilliwack City Tour
Our Chilliwack tour, “Morning with the Mayor,” gave clients an exclusive look at the city’s growth, guided by Mayor Ken Popove and Brian Coombes (President, CEPCO). The event began with a hosted coffee at the Coast Hotel before guests boarded a coach for a morning of exploration and insight.
Later lunch was provided and clients got to hear an engaging presentation from local developers the Algra Brothers, detailing the ambitious redevelopment plans for Downtown Chilliwack (now District 1881), followed by a Q&A session.
This event provided unparalleled access to city leaders and developers, offering clients a deep understanding of Chilliwack’s evolving landscape and community priorities.
Why These Events Matter
By fostering connections between clients and their communities, we help our clients stay informed, engaged, and inspired by the places they call home.
Event Experience: 10 Steps to Successful Estate Planning Seminar
In 2023, the Kirkby Group with the support of CIBC Trust and local Lawyers hosted an educational seminar - 10 Steps to Successful Estate Planning - at the CIBC Vedder Branch in Chilliwack. This complimentary, open door event was designed to help clients and their families gain clarity on one of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of financial planning: preparing for the future through effective estate planning.
Event Highlights
Expert Panel: Attendees benefited from the insights of leading professionals:
Interactive Format: The presentation included real-world examples, best practices, and a lengthy Q&A session, allowing attendees to ask questions and address their unique circumstances.
Client Experience
Guests enjoyed an evening of learning in a welcoming environment, complete with appetizers and refreshments. The event fostered open discussion, empowering participants to take action on their estate plans and providing peace of mind for themselves and their families.
Why This Event Matters
Estate planning is essential for protecting assets, preserving legacies, and minimizing stress for loved ones. We are commitment to comprehensive wealth management - going beyond investments to help clients plan for every stage of life.
For more information on our educational events or to begin your own estate planning journey, please contact your Kirkby Group advisor. We are here to guide you through every step, so you can focus on living your best life.
Event Experience: Dinner with Tax Expert Jamie Golombeck at The Hangar
In 2024, we hosted an exclusive and memorable evening at The Hangar in Abbotsford International Airport, featuring one of Canada’s leading tax experts, Jamie Golombek. This event brought together clients and guests for a unique blend of high-caliber financial insight, fine dining, and engaging entertainment.
Client Experience
Feedback from attendees highlighted the exceptional quality of the food, the engaging and approachable style of Jamie’s presentation, and the unique setting that made the evening truly memorable.
Why This Event Matters
We're committed to bringing our clients meaningful, client-focused events that blend education, networking, and appreciation. By bringing industry-leading expertise directly to our clients in a welcoming environment, we help empower informed financial decisions and foster a sense of community.
Other Event Experiences Include:
- Golf Day with a Pro featuring Brian Mogg
- Mother's Day High Tea at Ivana's Tea House
- Doug Jackson Travel Seminar
- VIP Lunch at Lynnwood
- Appreciation BBQ Mixers
- Christmas Mixers and more...
