Conversations with Jacquelyn Schiewe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacquelyn Schiewe

Hi Jacquelyn, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
As a former trainer and association executive, I am what is known as a lifelong learner: always curious, always trying to learn. I took many classes for personal development and learned a lot about wine. So personal development became professional development, and the next step was going into the business myself. I opened The Wine Sellers and it has become Harbor Country’s finest wine shop, celebrating 25+ years. It is a charming treasure trove packed to the rafters with fine wines and related giftware. Specializing in artisan wines from small estates and single vineyards, this boutique with a European flair offers selections from all over the globe priced to fit every budget, and wines to partner perfectly with every menu. Specializing in party planning, corporate programs, gift baskets and personalized service.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As I often tell clients, “I may know more than you, but there are millions who know more than me!” I make a point of keeping up with continuing education and stay current on changes and trends in the industry. I’ve been fortunate to travel globally over the years, visiting wineries all over the world and learning from winery owners, winemakers, export managers, and distributors. Harbor Country has been my family’s home for 4 generations, and this local knowledge has helped me in anticipating and dealing with the seasonal aspects of the area. That alone has helped me tremendously. I have seen other small businesses struggle with the 12 month cycle we have here.

When you are a small business owner, you do everything, which can be daunting and sometimes a bit exhausting. I have learned a lot, not only about wine, but business operations, legal compliance, financial stability, facilities management and who knows what else? I have wonderful and loyal clients who have become close friends, which is very rewarding. I love it! Business and life in general is about relationships.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve learned so much – not only in business practice but industry knowledge, and world geography as well. I think because I enjoy it so very much, I have become a good consultant for my peers and clients. The shop has about 1000 sku’s at any given time, and I sample and approve each wine. My inventory focusses on small estates and single vineyards from all over the globe. I like small businesses working together and have relationships with many of my producers across the world.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
In the state of Michigan, wine shops were deemed essential, making mine a busy business. Obviously a very different experience than most. Remember, travel was nonexistent, and many of my clients chose to vacate the urban areas where they lived and retreat to Harbor Country, which is less populated and felt safer.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thewinesellersmichigan.com
• Instagram: @winesellermichigan
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewinesellersinc/