Karin, could you tell us a few words about yourself and explain how you became a member of APCAV?
I grew up in a small village near Geneva. I am half German and half English. After forty years, a new professional opportunity brought me back to Nyon, in the canton of Vaud.
In addition, I love the mountains and was fortunate to discover Verbier four years ago. Since then, it has become my weekend home, where I come every weekend throughout the year. Naturally, I became a member of APCAV, and I would like to thank the association for its excellent work and for the quality of the information shared with its members.
How did the idea of organising a Christmas apéro for people spending Christmas alone in Verbier come about?
This is a project I have wanted to bring to life for many years, as Christmas can be the loneliest time of the year for many of us. This can happen to anyone at some point in their life. Perhaps the word “lonely” is not quite the right one; I prefer to speak of a Christmas “with heart”.
Three years ago, I started by inviting a person who had lost their partner to our family Christmas. Last year, I organised a meal by renting a communal hall in Verbier Village. This year, for the third edition, we are offering an apéro at an affordable price to make it accessible to as many people as possible.
Who is this apéro for? Is it open to everyone or aimed at a specific audience?
This moment of sharing is open to everyone. It is not intended only for people who are alone, but for anyone who would like to enjoy a convivial moment. It is an opportunity for exchange and connection for all ages, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
What would you like participants to take away from this moment of sharing?
I would like them to remember it as a moment filled with warmth, sharing and joy, and to want to come back next year.
A word for those who are still hesitating to join?
Please come along.
I would also like to thank Restaurant La Catogne for their valuable support in making this third edition possible.
Interview conducted by Désirée Borel, December 2025