A Pimpin' Ride Through Oregon Wine Country

Two very entrepreneurial young men (not to mention more than just slightly adorable) and one classic double-decker bus named Candy are an inspiring example of both free spirit and free enterprise. Owned by high school friends Brooks Thompson and Kent Metcalf, the Portland dynamic duo have been a business force to be reckoned for the past decade. Putting their business plan, Double Decker PDX, into action, Brooks and Kent recently purchased an iconic, cherry-red double-decker Bristol London bus with the intent on restoring it to more than just its original glory, to provide Oregon with a unique and luxury charter/limousine experience.

Brooks and Kent have overcome a great many obstacles getting this bus running and they’ve blogged about their journey, from purchasing the broken down bus, to transporting it to Portland, to renovating it and obtaining funding. They’ve taken their tourism plan one step further and are actively working to reduce their carbon footprint by using biodiesel and off-setting mileage by planting trees.

I was one of the lucky ones… I got to make Candy’s inaugural ride. Like a beautiful and innocent debutant making her first grand entrance, Candy’s debut was quite the ceremony. As a part of an impromptu Willamette Valley pre-Wine Blogger’s Conference tour, Solena Grand Cru Estate arranged for our group of wine bloggers from all over the United States to be picked up in style… being met by Candy, coffee and Voodoo Doughnuts for the maiden voyage.

The sight of the historic vehicle was enough to excite this old girl, but when I saw the luxuriously and lovingly refurbished interior, that was when my heart really went pitter patter. Two-stories, a convertible top, leather banquette seating, wine fridge, bar, state-of-the-art sound system and contemporary details made it a ride to remember. The opportunities are endless for this exciting charter service. As I sat soaking in the first sunny day of the summer, I made a mental note about both the service they provide and the way they provide service. If you’re looking to make a lasting impression, for your next wine country tour, meeting or party and have your guests delivered in modern and contemporary style, page Brooks and Kent of DoubleDeckerPDX to the helm. They’ll make it an event your guests won't soon forget. Check out their affordable packages at www.doubledeckerpdx.com and then call 503-575-5875 to schedule your trip.