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When Terry and Jenny Lewis first started talking about
opening a winery in Northwest Oklahoma, a lot of people raised their
eyebrows. Many of them were unaware that Oklahoma already boasts
several wineries. And Jenny, a former Chamber Executive for the
Fairview Chamber of Commerce, was aware of the importance of bringing
tourism dollars to Northwest Oklahoma. As Dr. Terry Lewis puts it, "we are
located in a beautiful and interesting part of the state - - with the Gloss
Mountains nearby and all of our rich history - - but the opportunities for
tourism here are not always well utilized. We hope that our winery
will help draw people in; that we can fill a small part of that vacuum.
That is our ultimate goal!"
Citing a good business plan and a solid vision as their starting point,
the husband and wife team approached local banks for funding and were
successful. "Actually the most difficult part of getting the business
up and running was all the licensing requirements," says Lewis. "That
was our major obstacle, with tax reporting our most difficult task. On
the flip side, however, we found marketing to be relatively easy because of
our unique niche."
When asked what resources they found most helpful in putting their
business together, the couple replied "we looked at a lot of similar
businesses; both inside and outside of the state of Oklahoma. And we
used the services of the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center to
make certain that we were not forgetting any details."
As is true with all small business start ups these winery owners faced
their fair share of problems. "We really need more signage on the
highway (412). That has proven to be somewhat of a problem but we are
coping. And, of course, there was all the legal paperwork..."
However, all in all, the couple is proud of where they are in the
development process; having officially opened the winery's doors in November
of last year. The gift shop is also up and running. Currently,
they are working on a house they purchased and moved to the winery property.
It will serve as a bed and breakfast, as well as feature a full-scale
restaurant and gallery.
"Our advice to potential small business owners is to think about it for a
long time, do a lot of research before you dive in, and start small and grow
slowly; taking on as little debt as possible." That is sound advice
from a business that is doing just that and, in the process, also finding
its own special place in the hearts of Oklahomans everywhere.
For a touch of European flair, visit Indian Creek Winery. Take part
in a wine tasting or enjoy the beautiful gift shop. Indian Creek is
located off 412, three miles west of Ringwood. For more information or
to schedule a party, contact Terry or Jenny Lewis at (580) 883-4919. |
