U Bottle It
Address: 2230 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway, Suite 150, Henderson, NV 89052
Phone: 565-5040
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ubottleit.com
Hours of operation: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
Owned/operated by: Gary and Ann Hails, and Heather Waldman
In business since: Nov. 1, 2011
VEGAS INC coverage
Describe your business.
We sell equipment and ingredients needed to make wine and beer at home. We also offer classes to make beer, wine or cider. During the several sessions, you learn by doing.
Who are your customers?
The only thing they have in common is they love craft beer or quality wine. We have also done wedding parties to make the wine and beer for their wedding and to give out as favors. Many people make wine as holiday gifts.
How did you get interested in home brewing?
My daughter in California owned a wine store. She got me interested in wine and beer. I was always interested in cooking and baking and thought, “I bet I can make this.” After a few attempts, I was having a lot of fun and the wine and beer got better and better.
Why do you think home brewing has gotten more popular the past few years?
There are a variety of reasons. First, it is a lot of fun. Secondly, it will save you money. Third, many couples make beer and wine as a couple, so it is a hobby they can share, and if they do it during a class, it is a nice date night activity. There are also several competitions throughout the year, so you can submit your wine and beer and get it judged and continue to improve on it.
What is the hardest part about doing business here?
Navigating taxes, licenses, health department and signage. The most difficult part was coordinating with the health department. While I found the department accommodating and helpful, it was difficult because they work independently and do not coordinate their requirements with municipal requirements.
What obstacles has your business overcome?
We outgrew our original 1,200-square-foot space quickly and had to move to a larger location seven months after we opened. It was always our goal to do classes and dispense malts in dispensers, and our original space just would not accommodate that.
How can Nevada improve its business climate?
Tax incentives for startups to aid in initial cash flow and business education classes on everything — from finances, accounting and cash flow to employee payroll management and employee expenses — would be helpful and perhaps reduce the startup failure rate.
Where do you see your company in five years?
Hopefully we will continue to grow, expand and have fun.