A Simpsonville-based wine bar will be opening its second location on Augusta Street in downtown Greenville.
As one of the original tenants of Gather GVL, Sweet Sippin’ is returning to the area with a brick-and-mortar location in a former boutique at 21 Augusta St.
The space will feature a garage door to allow easy access for an indoor/outdoor bar setup with rustic interiors, and it will eventualy include a small kitchen.
“It’s a nice, intimate space that already has great bones,” said Sweet Sippin’ Owner Julie Redman. “It’s a destination part of town, and I am really excited and know how much fun it will be when it opens.”
The space is about community, said Redman.
“Any time I walk into the space in Simpsonville, I know everyone now, while I didn’t six years ago,” she added. “That’s what I want to bring here to this space, a strong sense of community.”
Whether you’re stopping by after a bike ride, or after work in your suit, Redman is fixated on creating a wine bar with a relaxing and comfortable feel.
Sweet Sippin’ will have live music and light bites but will not have TVs, which was Redman’s intention.
“You’re getting a whole experience here and creating memories with the people you’re with that you want to come back to more than once,” said Redman. “It’s a community within a community.”
Redman said she also loves to collaborate with and support other local businesses to get local ingredients for small plates and charcuterie and beverages. The Sweet Sippin’ Simpsonville location offers yoga on the rooftop, because she sees it’s important to have a positive impact on the community by being a community.
In addition to offering wine and beer, Redman is applying for a liquor license to potentially offer cocktails as well. Her vision is to make the drink offerings seasonal, too, and always changing while still offering signature brands patrons know they can get there when they come in, she said.
“I want to offer more reds in the winter and whites in the summer, and I want to offer items you can’t just go to the store and get,” said Redman.
She also plans to have events, such as having a winemaker come in and do tasting events.
“You can get loyalty from customers by creating a one-of-a-kind experience with connectivity,” Redman said.
Equip Studio and Truitt Construction are the partners on the project, and Redman anticipates opening the Greenville location by the beginning of June. The design will be similar and recognizable to the Simpsonville location, she said.
When asked if there are plans in the works for additional locations/concepts, Redman said her mind is always turning — so potentially.
“I’m never going to say no to a great opportunity,” said Redman. “I love a challenge and creating beautiful gathering spaces, but for right now, I just need to focus on getting this one opened.”
