Meet Lisa Wood from Creston, a dynamic force where creativity meets community. As co-owner of a local craft brewery, she doesn’t just produce unique flavours, she crafts experiences. Lisa’s imagination doesn’t stop at the brewery door. As the event coordinator for Creston’s signature Hop to Vine Hustle, she brings a playful twist to fitness and fun. The essence of Imagination in Motion is reflected in the flavours she crafts at her brewery and in the energy she pours into fostering Creston’s community spirit in the Birthplace of Adventure

LISA WOOD

Lisa and her husband Craig, both lifelong residents of Creston, co-founded Wild North Brewing Company in 2021. Their vision was to establish a welcoming environment that brings people together to enjoy exceptional craft beer and foster community connections. 

“I’m a born and raised Kootenay girl, so I can’t imagine any other place feeling like home.  There’s a genuine sense of connection.  People here take pride in this valley, you can feel that whether you’re at a local event, on a trail, or talking to someone in line at the store.  There’s an underlying shared appreciation for this place that makes it easy to feel rooted”, describes Lisa when asked – what makes the Kootenays feel like home to you. 

One of Creston’s most anticipated summer events is the Hop to Vine Hustle, a lively celebration organized by the Creston Valley Libation Producers Society under the leadership of Lisa. This lighthearted, non-competitive race event blends fun, fitness, and local pride into one unforgettable day. Participants can choose to walk or run the scenic 11-kilometre route, which winds its way through Creston’s breweries, wineries, cideries, and distillery along their journey. 

The adventure culminates in a vibrant celebration at Millennium Park, where finishers are welcomed with tastings from a variety of local craft-beverage businesses, live music, and plenty of community cheer. Not up for the race? No problem! You can still join the fun by grabbing a ticket to the lively after-party in the park and raising a glass with friends. 

“The relationships here are amazing. You get to know people over time, and that personal connection naturally flows into how we collaborate, support each other, and do business. It’s not about being flashy, it’s about being consistent, respectful, and showing up in a way that aligns with who you are,” Lisa explains. 

Outside of work, Lisa enjoys a range of outdoor activities including golfing, fly fishing, hiking, snowshoeing, and paddleboarding. She values the unique experiences each activity provides -whether it’s the tranquility of the water, impressive mountain views, opportunities for socializing, or moments of solitude. Conveniently, these pursuits are all easily accessible, allowing her to enjoy the outdoors. 

“This is a place where day-to-day life includes nature, connection, and balance, not just on weekends or vacations, but as a normal part of living here,” Lisa adds. 

Cover photo of Creston and the Skimmerhorn Mountain range, photo by Mitch Winton.