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

Alright, Jacquelyn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

I LOVE being the owner of The Wine Sellers. I am certainly very senior in this position, and I cannot think of something I would rather be doing. Many of my friends have retired from their jobs (in and out of this industry). When I think about that possibility, I cannot figure anything else I might do that would be as much fun, as satisfying.

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

As a former trainer and association executive, I was a lifelong learner. I was always happy pursuing professional and personal development classes and activities. After taking a number of classes with Patrick Fegan of the Chicago Wine School, my interest and ambition was on fire! Before my association experience, I had studied bookkeeping for a couple semesters, and ended up working in the Chicago Suburban Banking arena. The bookkeeping and banking background have been invaluable in my role as CEO of The Wine Sellers.

The fine wine world has given me the opportunity to travel all over the world and to happily pursue my love of learning. There is always more to know about wine! I take special pride in the tasteful and ever-changing portfolio I have in my shop. I love working with clients, pairing the perfect wine for their particular needs. I cherish the relationships/friendships which have grown over the years with winemakers, winery owners, distributors, sales representatives and clients. Wouldn’t trade it for anything!

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Honesty, earnestness, and intimate knowledge of each of the approximately 1000 wines in my shop on any given day. I evaluate and approve every wine in my shop and can answer detailed questions. People depend on me, and I often hear things like, “I trust you,” or “you’ve never steered me wrong.” I LOVE that, and it is often word of mouth reviews that have worked in my favor.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Certainly, over the years there have been challenges. Harbor Country is somewhat seasonal, so revenue is not steady for 12 months per year. Buying ahead and warehousing product is a life saver. Because my family has had a presence in the area for many years, anticipating the sure-to-be slow times has gotten me through some tough times, when other vendors have not been prepared for “drought.” Additionally, the wine business must legally pay for wine when it comes through the door. You cannot order wine if you do not have the money in the bank! Very few businesses work on that basis but in Michigan, it is the law. Planning accordingly is a necessity!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thewinesellersmichigan.com
• Instagram: @winesellermichigan
• Facebook: The Wine Sellers, Inc.
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelyn-schiewe-154a3a9