Press ArchivesWho's New In Business: Movino Wine Bar & GalleryOjai, California, July 14, 2004 Owner: Suzy Johlfs
Questions to Suzy Johlfs: Why did you decide to start your own business? Everyone I know has suggested that I work for myself, probably because I'm extremely motivated and driven. So one beautiful day in Ojai, while walking my Maltese, Romeo, in Libbey Park, I noticed an available retail space in the Arcade and, on a whim, decided to inquire. Now, I'm following their advice and my own dream of owning and running my business. It's been an incredible experience. What was your educational and career background before you started your business? I started in sales in the early '70s, then moved on to management positions in the automobile industry. I spent 29 years in that field, here in Ventura County. What do you consider unique about your business? My wine bar is not only a place to come, relax and have a glass of wine, a meal or some appetizers, it's also about relaxing with good friends in a beautiful environment. We have included some unique features that include a beautifully designed slate water sculpture and a 42-inch plasma flat screen on which we show old silent movies, etc. No TV, no sports. Our goal is to make our guests feel welcome and comfortable while having a good time. I've ensured that my staff, the wine and the entertainment provide a great and unique experience. Because I'm a people person, being around people who are enjoying themselves is really very exciting. What business courses or advice have you found to be most valuable in getting your business off the ground and keeping it going? My own background in sales, art and photography combined with my passion for wine were the biggest influences in bringing my dream to reality. Creating the right ambiance, getting the best servers and world-class entertainers together and always keeping my credos in mind: "Movino ... birthed with a vision, born with a passion, a dream come true." and "In vino, veritas -- in wine, there is truth." These things resulted in my newest creation: Movino Wine Bar & Gallery. What were the biggest hurdles you overcame? The entire project was a huge challenge. The highest hurdle was trying to be patient with the entire process of building the wine bar; it took seven months to complete, and I'm one of those people who likes everything to be done yesterday, so waiting for everything to be completed was probably the biggest challenge. Patience is a virtue. Who is your target client/customer base? Residents of and visitors to Ventura and Santa Barbara counties are my target. Anyone who likes to relax and have a good time is my perfect customer and will love their visit to Movino Wine Bar & Gallery. We also have regulars who come from Los Angeles — some truly interesting and high-profile guests. You never know who you will be sitting next to sipping a glass of fine wine or enjoying a special entree from our menu. What is your strategy to increase market share? Since opening, we've been doing some local advertising in the Ventura County newspapers. We're launching an intensive public relations and promotional campaign through Gifford and Solomon Inc. We will be focusing on our wine selection, of course, but also taking the focus to the entertainment, staff, great environment and special events such as wine tastings and the launch of "Club Movino." This should result in a significant increase in exposure and business. What kind of competition does your business face? Ojai's other great restaurants and galleries can be considered competition to Movino Wine Bar & Gallery but, because we offer such a comfortable environment and so many personal touches, we really do have a unique offering. Copyright 2004, Ventura County Star. All Rights Reserved.
|
|
 Need
a giftreminder? |
