Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ali Hanson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ali, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

When I moved to California from Minnesota in 2013 I didn’t drink wine. Living in the Golden State so many of our social gatherings and weekend adventures were centered around this beverage that I would soon fall in love with! Being right where the grapes were grown, meeting the families and humans behind it and enjoying some of my most fond memories thus far with a glass in my hand, it was inevitable that I would develop a palate for it. My husband Drew and I visited many tasting rooms at wineries as well as local wine bars and multiple times after a few glasses :) I made the comment that it would be so fun to create a space like this of my own. So, when Drew and I made the decision to move back to Minnesota I used the life transition to put my entrepreneurial degree into play. I wrote a business plan for a fun, welcoming wine bar that brought the bright sunshiny vibes of Cali to the Midwest. There wasn’t anything like what I hand in mind where we were headed so I felt confident that I could bring something fresh and different to the community we landed in. It was a big decision to make but it simply felt right. The journey was a giant learning curve, some days exciting and some days extremely challenging, but I was able to bring to life the vision I had: a space for people to gather, connect with friends and family all while enjoying a great glass of wine paired with a delish cheese and charcuterie board.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I went to school for Business Management with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship; I had no idea what I was going to do with it, but when the idea for The Vine Room came to be I put it fully into play. In addition to the (less sexy) side of starting a business I took multiple wine education courses and received a few certifications. The space I’ve created has turned into a go to spot for many gatherings: date nights, happy hours, a place to host special events (bridal and baby showers, bachelorette parties, corporate meetings, book clubs, etc.), a venue for approachable wine education classes, and a fun spot to get creative with our Wine Wednesday Workshops featuring local artists. We are more than just a wine bar serving flights, glasses and bottles; the culture of this business and brand truly makes the space feel special the moment you walk in. After navigating a pandemic while also opening a second business: The Vine Shop, a bottle shop next door, I am proud to still be here and operating with an amazing team of Ambassadors and loyal guests.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

I was fortunate to cross paths with a local non-profit that was funded by the state and was created to help entrepreneurs at any stage in their journey! My advisor from this non-profit shared so many helpful resources, tips and provided great feedback as I navigated the lesser known parts of launching a business. I was able to secure a loan through this program as well as use their resources to connect with a local bank where I took out a loan and line of credit. I also contributed some of my own funds to make it all happen.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Our amazing team! The service experience truly can make or break a business no matter how solid the concept and space is. With a crew of kind, happy people, our reputation has been built and so much of our business comes via word of mouth! Building a culture really pays off – loyal employees who believe in what we do and are proud to work with us is seen by our guests and positive energy is created. You can feel it :)

Contact Info:

• Website: www.vineroom.co
• Instagram: @vineroom.co
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vineroom.co
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-vine-room/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-vine-room-hopkins-2

Image Credits
Chris Flottman, Flottography Rachel Seifert, Rachabella Photography Jason, @eatswithjason