Today we’d like to introduce you to Wilma Lewis-Marshall.
Hi Wilma, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began with a passion for making wine at home. What started as a hobby soon grew into a small business called Question Mobile Bar. The very first person to taste my wine was my father, William Lewis, and his encouragement meant the world to me. He absolutely loved it and inspired me to keep pursuing my dream and expanding my vision.
As time passed, I experienced the loss of my father, and in honor of his memory, I decided to rebrand and create 1949 Winehouse & More, named after his birth year. The business became more than just a brand, it became a tribute to the man who first believed in me.
I’ve always loved bringing people together. As my daughters often say, I’m “the hostess with the mostest.” Because of my love for cooking, entertaining, and caring for others, I took a leap of faith and opened a restaurant where I could share both my food and hospitality with the community.
Every step of this journey has been guided by faith, perseverance, and the support of those I love. I truly dedicate my success to God, my parents, my husband, my children, and my entire family. Their love, encouragement, and belief in me have made all of this possible.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it has not been a smooth road, but it has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life. Building 1949 Winehouse & More has required me to pour my heart, time, energy, and faith into every step of the journey.
There have been many bumps along the way. There were moments of uncertainty, long hours, and plenty of hard work, sweat, and tears. However, those challenges have helped shape both me and my business, and they have made every accomplishment that much more meaningful.
The beautiful part is that through it all, I continue to see growth every single day, whether it’s in the business, the relationships we’ve built with our customers, or the impact we’re making in our community. For that, I am truly grateful and consider it a blessing. Every obstacle has taught me something valuable, and each new day reminds me why I took this leap of faith in the first place
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My journey began with a passion for bartending and creating beautiful charcuterie experiences that brought people together. Over time, that passion evolved into 1949 Winehouse & More, a proud Black-owned restaurant that continues to grow and thrive each day.
Today, we specialize in delicious soul food, handcrafted specialty cocktails, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. More than just a restaurant, we strive to be a gathering place where people can connect, celebrate, and enjoy great food and hospitality. We host a variety of events throughout the month, including Karaoke Wednesdays, R&B Bingo, First Fridays, wine tastings, charcuterie classes, and many other exciting experiences, with even more to come in the future.
What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels like family. We want every guest who walks through our doors to feel at home, whether they are joining us for a meal, a special event, or simply a good time with friends. We believe in bringing people together through food, fellowship, and unforgettable experiences.
What I am most proud of is my dedication and perseverance throughout this journey. Building a business has required faith, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to my vision. I am also incredibly proud of my family, who have stood beside me through every challenge and every success. Their love and support have been the foundation that has helped make 1949 Winehouse & More what it is today
Who else deserves credit in your story?
As stated before I have to give all the glory to God. Without His guidance, grace, and favor, none of this would have been possible.
Next to God, my husband, my mother, my children, and my family deserve all of the praise as well. Their love, encouragement, patience, and support have carried me through every stage of this journey. They have celebrated the victories with me, stood by me during the challenges, and continuously reminded me to keep going even when the road became difficult.
I am also incredibly grateful for my landlord, who took a leap of faith on me from the very beginning. His belief in my vision has meant so much. Not only did he provide me with an opportunity, but he also shared knowledge, guidance, and encouragement that helped me navigate this process.
I am blessed to have a village of people who believed in me, supported my dreams, and helped make 1949 Winehouse & More what it is today.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1949_winehouse?igsh=YWF2b2pnczB2YnZ5&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DCTBZ4bAF/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@1949winehouse?_r=1&_t=ZT-96uLQSRokRi
