Hire Doreen to speak at your event–large or small.
As a Distinguished Toastmaster, I have educated, entertained, and enticed audiences over the years on a number of topics, including:
The world of fine chocolate/chocolate travel, chocolate appreciation and tasting. As a chocolate researcher, writer, blogger, and author of the award-winning book, Chocolatour: A Quest for the Word’s Best Chocolate, I have travelled to nearly 20 countries (to date) to research the growing of cacao, processing of cocoa beans, and making of artisanal chocolate. I have attended many chocolate events around the world and engaged in a wide variety of choco-centric activities–including being slathered with molten chocolate at the Pure Jungle Spa and other great establishments.
Let me lead your group through a guided chocolate tasting event, a customized or themed chocolate pairing event with the libation(s) of your choice, or help your chef orchestrate a delectable cocoa-based sweet and savoury menu to entice your attendees.

Doreen can prepare an engaging presentation to entertain, educate, and inspire your audience.
Volunteerism. As author of Before You Say Yes … A Guide to the Pleasures & Pitfalls of Volunteer Boards and a lifelong volunteer in the world of non-profits, I can speak to your audience from firsthand experience on how to hold an effective meeting, how to deal with difficult people, and how to be the very best volunteer you can be.
Public Speaking. Many people fear public speaking. I adore it! I can help your group acquire tips on how to tantalize their audience when making a work presentation, a presentation to the board, a funding pitch, a toast to the bride, or a eulogy at a funeral.
Freelance writing. Whether it’s how to be a travel writer, how to make a living as a freelance writer, how to crowdfund your creative project, how to turn your passion (for anything) into words and write about it, or how to have a dynamic and profitable blog, I can offer a customized talk for your group and provide insights into the world of a professional writer and award-winning author.

The chocolate and wine pairing we had at Aaron’s was fantastic, partly due to the warmth of the hosts and the great venue.
Here are a few endorsements I’ve received from satisfied colleagues and clients:
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“We were so pleased with the reactions from our clients following Doreen Pendgracs presentation at our client appreciation event.
Doreen entertained and educated us with her stories of how chocolate is produced in different areas, along with her tales of chocolate travels. We were delighted to taste for ourselves the flavor differences from a couple of different regions. Guests commented on how they have been inspired to learn more about the world of chocolate, about chocolate artisans and of course were delighted with the new found knowledge of the many health benefits chocolate provides.”
Juana Baldwin, CFP, CHS, RRC
Financial Planning Advisor
Assante Financial Management Ltd., Winnipeg, Manitoba
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“Doreen Pendgracs delivered a delightful evening of Artisan Chocolate & Wine Pairing at a museum event for us this spring. The audience was completely captivated with Doreen’s knowledgeable–and at times hilarious–presentation of everything you ever wanted to know about chocolate. We received positive feedback from participants for days, and we can hardly wait to have her back for another event!”
Tammy Axelsson, Executive Director
New Iceland Heritage Museum
#108 94-1st Avenue, Gimli, Manitoba, Canada.
Phone: 204-642-4001
www.nihm.ca
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“Doreen Pendgracs spoke to the University Women’s Club of Winnipeg in February, 2015. The presentation was fast paced, organized, diverse, and very interesting. Doreen used visuals, hands on material as well as a verbal approach. She was very witty and informative. We all enjoyed her presentation very much. And the chocolate was good too!”
Faye Hansen, (former) Program Chair
University Women’s Club of Winnipeg.
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“I have heard Doreen speak many times on a variety of topics. She speaks clearly and with enthusiasm, drawing people into her subject and holding their interest. Doreen engages her listeners with her voice, her animated approach and her knowledge base. She is a pleasure to listen to and open to interacting with the listeners at the appropriate moments, using their contributions to add to the experience.”
Laurel Sarginson
Owner, Evergreen Gate Bed and Breakfast
Past President, Bed and Breakfast of Manitoba
Chair, Red River North Tourism.
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Thanks very much to everyone for their recommendations.
Please get in touch with me via the Contact page to let me know your needs and budget if you are seeking a professional speaker for your event.