Crazy Vines Winery, a full-production winery and tasting room in Sanford, Michigan, is the realization of a shared passion from founders Pam and Jacob Keister’s early winemaking days while they were dating. After years of planning and study, the couple built their winery from the ground up, officially opening their doors in 2022. 

As first-time business owners, Pam and Jacob faced challenges with limited experience in business operations and marketing. They received crucial support from the Michigan SBDC, which provided guidance on advertising, goal setting, and financial management. Their Business Consultant Kate Cardinali played a key role in helping them stay on track, set priorities, and find cost-effective solutions—ultimately accelerating their growth and stability.

Today, Crazy Vines produces and serves handcrafted wines and ciders made entirely on-site using Michigan-grown grapes. Guests can purchase bottles to take home, sample a variety of wines and ciders in the tasting room, or enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere over a glass of wine, cider, or beer. The business has grown significantly, allowing Pam to retire from her previous full-time job to dedicate herself fully to the winery. They are continuously expanding product offerings and their customer base.

The Keisters credit their success to community support and the resources provided by the Michigan SBDC, which gave them the tools and confidence to grow as entrepreneurs. They emphasize the profound impact this support has had:

“If it wasn’t for the Michigan SBDC, we wouldn’t be as far as we are right now. Kate has been amazing — from the very beginning she’s helped us stay on track, set goals and keep moving forward. She’s guided us through everything from marketing and advertising to finding better suppliers and saving money. Having someone with that kind of experience in our corner has made all the difference,” said Pam and Jacob.

Pam and Jacob advise new business owners to stay true to their vision and carefully filter outside advice, noting that “no one cares about your business as much as you do.” They stress the importance of persistence, passion, and finding support resources like the Michigan SBDC to help navigate the entrepreneurial journey.