Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Michael McCann, owner of Vacillate Wine Bar, located in Miami, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Vacillate Wine and Beer Bar, located off of Southwest 88th Street in Miami, Florida, is a Bar with thoughtfully chosen, wine, beer, tapas, flatbreads, and charcuterie boards. At Vacillate, an exceptional evening is right around the corner. A local wine bar in the Kendall neighborhood of Miami. We are a casual place to have a really romantic date night, ladies' night out on the town, or just a kickback relaxing good time with live music and GREAT wine.
Our wine bar is Owned and Operated by Advanced Sommelier, so you know the wine is going to be good! Also the great food! Haha.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Michael McCann. I am an Advanced Sommelier and Owner of Vacillate Wine Bar in Miami and Kombi Keg South Miami, a mobile bar business in South Miami. I have an extensive background in wine, having worked for or with some of the best restaurants in Miami and Chicago. I have a WSET Level 3 (Advanced) and also CSW. Certified Specialist of Wine.
I have worked in a variety of settings. I am uniquely aware of how my background, and training, affect my current business dealings. I have a background as an elementary teacher and college professor, having attained a Master's Degree in Education. This allows me to understand the world of education and how to give training and seminars on many topics. Into and including wine! My background as an Advanced Professional Sommelier allows me the knowledge and the freedom to know and constantly learn about wines.
I am originally from Chicago, where I went to college and grad school and became an Elementary School teacher and College Professor. Having taught 5th Grade in the Chicago Public School System for many years, on the south side of Chicago, a really rough neighborhood, before moving to Miami and deciding on a career change. In Miami, I became an Advanced Sommelier, wine expert. I worked at some of the best restaurants in Miami Beach and its surroundings.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We have won Best Wine Bar in Miami by the Miami New Times and other awards and accolades.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
In these uncertain times, the COVID economic crisis is weighing most heavily on my mind these days. Whether small independent restaurants like my own will be able to survive this pandemic remains to be seen. I am fighting every day to stay open and serve my AMAZING clientele.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Have patience and a backup plan. Plan, Plan, Plan. Because Plan A will never work, and sometimes Plan B, C, and D will not work. Sometimes it won't work until you get to Plan G or H. So be ready to change, pivot, and make a new plan. Always take time to relax and be yourself because a stressed-out business owner is never a good thing. Take a mental health day. Do something you love. Take care of yourself. Because it is a lot of hard work, and that can get you to the point of mental exhaustion. Don't let it overcome you. Remember why you started your business in the first place; stay grounded.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.vacillatewinebar.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vacillatewinebar/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacillatewinebar/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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