I’ve been waiting for that surreal moment of realizing “this is really happening,” but every time I think I begin to feel it, it subsides.
What replaces it is a surge of energy and wondering about what I need to do next to make this brew bar the community space people hope it to be.
It’s all for you.
Here’s a snapshot of where we’re at.
Location
We’re now beyond the verbal agreement phase on the space and onto the initial leasing terms that, before I can move forward with, I need to confirm cost of build out.
To do that, I’ve gotta work with an architect to get sketches made for contractors to bid on. Which means we’re in the designing phase.
Design
Think of your job and how you have surely interacted with people that did something you didn’t appreciate. You likely noted to yourself, “I’ll never be like that.”
I’ve done that with nearly every bar and coffee shop and restaurant I’ve visited. The process of elimination can get you a long way.
Having gathered inspiration for the design of the bar since I started working on this project three years ago certainly made initial meetings with the architect go smoothly.
Alas, I’m still open to input on what makes a great beer bar, whether you are bringing the customer perspective or are a bar owner yourself – send me a note with your thoughts to garth@garthsbrewbar.com
Money
Would you believe me if I said I’ve only spent about $350 on the bar since the idea started three years ago?
That’s gone to website hosting, starting the business as an LLC and treating a lot of people who have helped me get to where I am today to lunch or coffee.
That said, now the costs are beginning to accrue with paying for the architect drawing with build out and licensing soon to follow.
Yes, it’s scary and it makes it all more real, but we’ve been planning for this for years. It’s natural. And it’s supported by the awesome community of beer drinkers. To that, a cheers to you!
Mailing List
If you know someone who loves craft beer or might like to try out a new craft beer bar in Madison next summer, send them to www.garthsbrewbar.com so they can get on the email list!
Upcoming Events
I’ll be hosting a unique beer and ingredient tasting experience at Working Draft Brewing Company on November 14th. Keep an eye out here.
I’ll also be leading a couple of beer appreciation sessions at Steve’s on University Ave within the next couple of months. Keep an eye out here.
Lots of samples and knowledge to be shared!
Cheers. Thanks for being part of the journey!
Photo credit