Looking back on the start of the pandemic, intertwined with our venture’s beginnings, feels like navigating through ever-changing terrain. It was a time of deep reflection and soul-searching—a period where we faced our fears head-on while also discovering our passions and nurturing our relationships amidst the whirlwind of uncertainty.

 

Change, though daunting for many, is inevitable. Our story began with a simple red barn, standing proud for over a century. Each morning, as I peered out of our bedroom window to catch a glimpse of it, discussions would arise about its future. Could it become an inviting space for gatherings, a place to share laughter and stories in our retirement years?

 

With Brian’s support, we took our dreams to the township, seeking approval for a special-use permit. Along the way, we learned that agriculture had to complement the envisioned space, leading us to embrace the term “Agrotourism.” Just as we navigated these bureaucratic waters, the pandemic struck, prompting a pivotal decision for me to step away from my role in healthcare and fully commit to our 5 children, who we’re home at the time, and budding dreams of a boutique vineyard, with the barn transformed into a cozy tasting room.

 

Our journey took an unexpected turn, and I never looked back, fueled by a deep love for wine and the belief that amidst life’s uncertainties, lies the opportunity for growth and transformation.