Today we’d like to introduce you to Wendi Wilkins.
Wendi, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born in Salem, Ma to two working parents. My mother was a secretary in a HVAC company and my father was self-employed (construction/painting company). I started working when I was very young. I would get up at 5:3oam in the morning and head into Boston with my dad. I was a gopher, cleaning crew and painter. I learned early in the life that hard work is a part of life.
I went to catholic schools through high school. I completed my business degree from Salem State University. My college years were a challenge. It was the most difficult times to get through. My father had left my mom, we lost the house and we lived in an apartment for the first time in my life. It was only a two bedroom and I slept on a mattress in my sister’s bedroom for several years. It wasn’t a difficult thing for me, it just something that I did and didn’t complain about it. My mom, sister and I worked as a unit to survive whatever life give us. In order to help pay the rent, I needed to work full time and I also went to college (full time as well).
After graduation, I worked in retail management for 6 years then moved onto Finance. I worked at several major companies: John Hancock, Putnam Investments and Fidelity. At that point, I headed into business analyst work. From a business analyst role, I worked for a small IT company as a Project Manager (PM). As a PM, I traveled a bit within the US and worked many long days/night. I was always connected and even took my laptop on vacations. My husband (a business owner), knew it was time for me to own a business. As a business owner, you work long hours and are still “always” connected but at least -it’s your company! You own it and you can’t complain about any of the good/bad decisions-because you made them.
My husband looked for a business that I would enjoy and have fun with. Something that would make my schedule a bit more flexible than a traditional job. We have a young boy and “older” parents that require extra help at times. We always loved wine. I have to tell you it wasn’t a passion just something we enjoyed together. When this opportunity came along we know it was right for me and it was our time to “pull the trigger” for business ownership.
It’s been over a year and it’s unbelievable where I started to where the business is today. I made several mistakes in 2016 but I’ve learned from them which is the only way this process is going to work. I had several successes and several moments when it’s been difficult but I’ve found a way to manager and overcome it. My wine knowledge has exploded which is one of the favorite pieces of my story. I love to learn and there’s always something to learn owning a business.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For me, the hardest struggle was during my college years where I needed to help support my family (mom and sister) at times. All the other things I’ve dealt with just doesn’t seem as challenging. Within my business, I struggle with confronting my staff with issues and making the simplest decision seems daunting. You want your business to survive and if it doesn’t it impacts your staff and your life. No one wants to fail.
My husband is so supportive which makes me feel very fortunate. It’s also been a struggle with my lack of money management skills and social media knowledge. I’ve learned so much and I keep learning.
Please tell us about Tutto Bene Wine & Cheese Cellars.
Tutto Bene Wine & Cheese Cellars is a beautiful wine cellar. It’s hidden gem of Lowell MA. Our motto, every customers always walks out with a smile. We sell our wines as a hand sell-we ask you a few questions and we’ll give you several suggestions to select from. We carry wines, cheeses and craft beers from around a world. We also have a great selection of cigars.
Our custom wine/gift baskets are perfect for any occasion and we also deliver locally. Our knowledge and service set us apart from any wine shop. We take the time to chat and interact with every customer which is almost nonexistent in the big box stores. We strive to be different and unique. We are always willing to go above and beyond.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My father took the family to Ritz Carlton in Montreal when I was very young. My sister and I had our own hotel room. We took out our clothes and shoes placed them in the HUGE cabinet. I remember looking down at my tiny little shoes then looking up into this HUGE cabinet. I just have to laugh every time I think about that memory.
Contact Info:
- Address: Tutto Bene Wine & Cheese Cellars
58 Prescott Street
Lowell, MA 01852 - Website: www.tuttobenecellars.com
- Phone: 978-459-9463
- Email: wine@tuttobenecellars.com
- Instagram: @tuttobenecellars
- Facebook: http://www.tuttobenecellars.com
- Twitter: @TuttoBeneWine
Image Credit:
PixL-Photography by Lorelei White
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