Jaclyn Stuart (a k a “The Wine Lady/Girl/Chick”) is the owner and sommelier of Vintage Elkhart Lake, a wine and fine foods shop. Vintage Elkhart Lake features over 300 wines from around the world, plus olive oils and vinegars, local cheeses, craft beers, spirits, snacks, chocolates, gifts, cigars and more. Learn about Jaclyn Stuart…
Follow at: @VintageElkhartLake
Hometown: Orange County, California
First job: I had been babysitting from a very young, pre-teen age (I once even babysat for a family that had a kid my own age with three younger siblings) and one of the parents loved how organized I was and asked if I’d be willing to be their assistant at their commercial photography business. The commute was about 20 steps across the street, and I spent my days running around getting old school film developed and labeling those prints.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in WI: Free time?…what’s that?…but really, the little time that I’m not working, I love being outdoors, being goofy with my friends or relaxing with one of my many pets.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Opening a wine shop that’s now been open for 12 years when I was told “that’s not going to last.”
The biggest obstacle you overcame: As someone with a chronic health condition, every day is full of obstacles of varying sizes and making it through the day with some pizzazz still left is something worth celebrating.
Someone who inspires you and why: I find inspiration in so many places – most often from people seizing the day and living life to the fullest. I love hearing about people that drop everything to travel the world or to pursue their passions.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Be a sponge. Learn from others and soak up as much as you can while earning a steady paycheck. Don’t rush into having your own business because you can learn from others’ mistakes before they’ll cost you. And be ready to work all day, every day. Even if you’re your own boss, you’ll still have your customers to answer to.
Favorite quote: Basically anything from Billy Madison, but if you’re looking for something more inspirational: “Life shouldn’t be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, Champagne in one hand, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming, ‘WOO-HOO, what a ride!’”–Mavis Leyrer, age 83 (a lovely spin on a Hunter S. Thompson quote)
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I don’t drink wine all day, every day. Sometimes I drink beer, hard cider, cocktails, tea, homemade kombucha, mocktails…even water.
What makes someone fabulous: Being someone that can perfectly meld being compassionate and passionate. Finding that balance between helping others, but taking care of yourself.
