CW: When did you decide to go into the business you are in?
“I have had a passion for wine for many years, and I love building relationships.”
CW: How do you find your passion?
“Visiting vineyards across the country and some places in Mexico. I also worked in an urban winery in San Diego and was very educated through that.”
CW: How have the past year’s challenges changed you?
“I learned that if you can survive a pandemic and road construction, you can survive anything through business.”
CW: What inspires you?
“People! I feel that we learn from all walks of life, and you never stop growing.”
CW: Who influences you in your life currently?
“Everyone that comes across my life. Younger, older — family!”
CW: If you could have dinner with anyone (alive or passed away), who would it be and why?
“James D. White — he is my brother who passed away in 2019. He is the reason for the wine shop.”
CW: Tell us about your family.
“I am very close to my family and friends (framily) who make up the circle of trust.”
CW: Give us some success tips for someone just starting out in your line of work.
“Research, research, research. Never back down, and stand your ground. Be strong, and love yourself to the fullest!”
CW: Give us some information about your shop.
“I relocated from San Diego to Mount Pleasant in the spring of 2020. I educated myself as a sommelier by taking wine classes in California before the move, and I hope to pass that knowledge on to my customers. It’s all about getting your palate used to something different — new tastes and flavors to expand your choices and your drinking experiences. My store offers wine tastings, takeout, curbside pickup and activities. We have built relationships in the community, met new friends and learned to take care of each other.”
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Leeah’s Old Village Wine Shop: Building Relationships With the Community