Bottle and Bottega mixes art with entertainment
An interview with Greg and Darcie Loudon, owners of Bottle and Bottega Homewood.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the business.
A: Bottle and Bottega is an upscale wine and art studio offering a fun, unique alternative to an ordinary night out. One-part artistic adventure and one-part cocktail party, Bottle & Bottega is great for get-togethers with friends, creative corporate retreats or any special events.
Q: You left corporate jobs to launch the business. Tell us about that.
A: I've been in advertising and illustration for about 30 years and overall it's been a pretty good run, great people, good times and on occasion a chance to do some great art. About ten years ago the economy changed and the mentality of the business changed with it. Everything became politically correct, money ruled, the art and creativity were secondary and with that the fun and crazy personalities slowly disappeared. Darcie and I started talking about something else we could that would be more satisfying for us both.
My friend Chris, a fellow artist, opened up a Bottle and Bottega in Arlington Heights last year and was telling me about it through his entire process. The more we thought about it the more attractive it became and pretty soon it seemed like the only real choice.
Q: What made you choose this business?
A: We chose this business because it's a mix of everything we love to do: art, drinking wine and throwing parties. The idea of bringing this kind of experience to Homewood to share with our family and friends was too good to pass up.
Q: Describe the atmosphere.
A: The atmosphere for our studio will be upscale chic and fun. Beautiful, yet warm and very inviting. Our hope is that you won't want to leave once you spent some time here. So far we've worked with Grape and Grain, Grady's Grille, Lassen's and we have events at La Voute and Cilantro coming up. We couldn't be happier, so far everyone has been a dream to work with.
Q: What attracts corporate clients?
A: Corporate clients appreciate the opportunity to celebrate and collaborate in style with art, wine, and their entire team.
Q: How many locations are there in the suburbs?
A: Right now there are six Bottle and Bottega franchises in the suburbs and two in the city itself.
Q: Tell us one interesting fact about the property.
A: It used to be a Ben Franklin and when you see it next you will never believe it.
Bottle and Bottega Homewood
Address: 2009 Ridge Road Homewood Il 60430
Owners: Greg and Darcie Loudon
When business opened: Started doing pop-ups in May but our studio will hopefully open Sept. 1
Web Address: <a href="http://www.bottleandbottega.com/Homewood">www.bottleandbottega.com/Homewood</a>