Bowers Museum

In general, I'm a pretty frugal person (not cheap - there is a difference!). I invest in things that last: I'll carry the same purse for years, drive a 16-year-old car (that still runs, btw), and buy classic clothing and shoes so I may wear them until they tear (but I know how to sew!) or no longer have tread.

When it comes to education, I am still pretty frugal and will invest in myself (and my family) whenever possible. I'll spend hundreds of dollars learning a new craft (craft chocolate, that is!). I'll buy books to read and reread, and attend courses taught by industry experts.

Here, at the Wandering Chocoholic, I'll list free and minimal cost resources (from credible sources, of course), because who doesn't like saving money?

While searching for 'on-line chocolate tastings January 2021', I came across this gem: the Bowers Museum, located in Santa Ana, CA:

"For over eight decades, the Bowers Museum has evolved in many ways. From a relatively small museum focusing on Orange County history, the Bowers is now 8.6 times larger. Now it has the distinction of being the largest museum in Orange County, and one of the finest cultural arts museums in the region. Its collections, programs, and exhibitions still include Orange County history, but now reflect the demographics of Southern California by celebrating its diverse cultural makeup, with major emphasis on the fine arts of the indigenous peoples of the Americas and the Pacific."

If you check out their January 2021 Event Calendar, you'll find these events: - Chocolate History from Asia & the Pacific with Dr. Lee Theisen (I learned Dr. Theisen is also known as the 'Chocolate Guru')
- Fu Wan Chocolate Facilities Walkthrough (in Taiwan!)
- The Future of Craft Chocolate with Matt Caputo
- Virtual Festival of Chocolate (a Facebook Live event)
And these chocolate tastings:- Craft Chocolate 101 with Matt Caputo (a member exclusive - so yes, I bought an annual museum membership)
- Wm. Chocolate Tasting with William Marx and Dr. Lee Theisen

The Event Managers asked that if you are unable to pick up your tasting kits (I am not traveling due to SIP), let them know. I did, and the chocolatiers are shipping my kits to me. Super awesome, especially in times like these.

I usually post my tasting reviews on Instagram, and will start updating my blog with event reviews.

Stay tuned for more free and minimal cost resources.