Sponsored by the Wishmaker House Bed & Breakfast.
BELLVILLE – Five years ago, the owners of the Wishmaker House Bed & Breakfast opened what has become a popular getaway spot in the heart of Mid-Ohio.
The small, family-run B & B and winery provides upscale accommodations with exceptional hospitality and features an onsite winery and wine bar.
It makes about 10 types of wine, some of which are award-winning. Its kitchen serves fresh, seasonal fare with an emphasis on local ingredients.
“Our business has grown dramatically. We’ve also added other services, such as hosting private parties and events,” co-owner Cassie Swisher said. “In our first year, we could run the inn and winery with about 3 people on any given night. Now, we can have up to 20 people working in one day.”
The Wishmaker House, 116 Main St. in Bellville, opened in August 2012 when couple Brad and Karen Smith bought the building because they didn’t want to see the Bellville landmark site empty or fall into disrepair. The idea for the inn was born from their love of traveling and staying in B & B’s.
It later expanded with a winery when their daughter Cassie and her husband Vic decided to partner with them.
The key to staying in business, Swisher says, is customer service.
“We love interacting with our customers and providing them a truly unique and enjoyable experience. Most of our B&B guests come as strangers but leave as friends,” she said.
As the holidays approach, the Wishmaker House wants to emphasize its private party rentals, overnight accommodations for out of town guests and relatives, wine sales and gift certificates for the winery or overnight stays.
About local, small businesses, Swisher added that the money spent goes “back into your community.”
“When people shop at a small business they are supporting their community in so many ways. You are helping to pay the salary of your friends and neighbors. Small businesses are the ones supporting your children’s sports teams and donating to your fundraisers,” she said.
To learn more about the Wishmaker House, visit wishmakerhouse.com or call (419) 886-9463.
Winery hours are 4 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
