Why Open a Wine Shop?

August 29, 2008...Friday... A chilly, miserable night

Why open a Wine Shop?

We have this question asked to us quite often, and it's something we had to ponder long and hard before delving into the financially, emotionally, and physically demanding commitment, that is entrepreneurship. With backgrounds in the world of restaurants and retail, my husband and I were no strangers to hard work, long hours, and making other people rich! After we met, fell in love, and decided that we wanted to travel this life journey together (could I be more Velveeta cheesy? yes!). James put on hold his desire to become a nurse, while I held off on my delusions of becoming a pop star/reality t.v celebrity, and we decided that owning our own business could be both lucrative and fulfilling. Let the drama and upheaval unfold!

After years, four to be exact, my father serendipitously stumbled upon a store for sale right in our hometown. Here we were chasing dead end leads in Colombia, P.G. County, D.C., Bel Air, and in the end, finding the perfect space in the burbs of Baltimore(Timonium/Towson). The area where we grew up and both our families currently reside. So, armed with years of experience, anxiety, good intentions, and an idea to create a warm, inviting space to expand ones knowledge and joy of wine, Swirl was born.

So...we found ourselves newlyweds and the proud owners of a hefty loan, whoopee!! A side note, to those who have been to their favorite bar/restaurant/shop and said to themselves, "It looks so cool and fun, I could open up my own place!," think long and hard of what that really means! We were fortunate to have the support and aid of our family and friends, not to mention a passion for all things pertaining to wining and dining.

Swirl Wine, is our idea of a judgment free zone, for cork heads of all levels and backgrounds to explore, learn, and enjoy themselves. With our weekly wine tastings, private events, and one-on -one interactions, our hope is that the Swirl Wine community grows and inspires! Our philiosopy is one of quality over quantity, and value over mediocrity. We are always on the prowl for new and interesting wine producers dedicated to their craft and quailty. So,stay tuned...
Cheers,
Austin and James

http://www.swirl-wine.net

The Birth...

Swirl Wine

Aug. 28, 2008 - Thursday, 6pm

Welcome all you heathens to our little blog dedicated to the hedonistic pleasures of vino and dining! Not to mention the shameless promoting of our wine and spirits shop Swirl!

We would gladly take this opportunity to introduce ourselves and the reason why we birthed this wee little blog. My husband and I have always been intrigued with the powerful connection between drinking, dining and the ability of these two activities to gather people together. We find it both thrilling and humbling to share our knowledge and passion with those of like minded hedonistic pleasure seekers. That being said, it was no surprise to our friends and family that we took that love of life and tasty libations and opened a boutique wine and spirits shop in our hometown of Baltimore (more about our shop to come).

We wanted to create a space where we would be able to reach a vast like-minded audience interested in sharing our love for wine, spirits, beer, food, entertaining, and well, anything else that brings happiness and joy to life. Look forward to guest appearances by our staff, friends, and industry peers sharing their experiences as well.

So, let the fun begin!

Cheers,

Austin and James

http://www.swirl-wine.net