Discovering New Possibilities: How Product Testing and Internal Events Improve the CellarPass Experience

Boxed lunches, scenic picnics, and instant confirmations—how one fall road trip tested the limits of CellarPass.

Discovering New Possibilities: How Product Testing and Internal Events Improve the CellarPass Experience

At CellarPass, we’re always looking for ways to enhance our platform—not just for wineries and tasting rooms, but for any creative experience that benefits from seamless coordination and online reservations. One of the most effective ways we learn is through product testing in real-world scenarios.

Recently, I had the perfect opportunity to put CellarPass through its paces in a way that stretched beyond traditional wine tasting events. Inspired by the vibrant fall colors of the Pacific Northwest, I organized a two-day driving tour for a group of about 20 people, covering roughly 400 miles.

Here’s how it worked:

  • Coordinated Meetups: Using CellarPass, I set up two rendezvous points for the group.
  • Custom Meal Options: Participants selected from three different boxed lunch choices, each with side salad options, for a picnic at Diablo Lake.
  • Lodging Coordination: We arranged an overnight stay at Sun Mountain Lodge in Winthorp, seamlessly integrating all elements into one platform.

What made this experience especially valuable was seeing how our system worked with a diverse group—most participants were over 60 and had varying degrees of technical comfort. Each person was able to secure their spot, choose their lunch, and receive instant confirmation—all online, without assistance. Within hours, I had a complete list of boxed lunches for the Chef to prepare for the following morning.

This exercise wasn’t just about planning a scenic adventure; it was a live, hands-on product test. By using CellarPass in a context outside of wine tastings, I could see firsthand how flexible the platform is—and where we might make improvements to enhance usability.

Key Takeaways:

  • Real-World Testing Matters: Observing how different users interact with the platform helps identify areas for refinement.
  • Adaptability is Key: While CellarPass was designed for wine experiences, it can easily handle events like multi-stop tours, meals, or other reservation-based adventures.
  • Instant Feedback: Immediate confirmation and easy online selection empower participants and reduce administrative effort.

Ultimately, product testing through internal events allows us to better understand our platform’s strengths and opportunities for growth. Whether coordinating wine tastings, scenic tours, or group picnics, CellarPass continues to prove that it’s adaptable, intuitive, and ready to handle experiences of all kinds.

By thinking creatively and testing in real-world scenarios, we’re not just improving CellarPass—we’re expanding what it can do for you.

Jonathan Elliman
Jonathan Elliman
co-founder + cto
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