Most of you know my story: from a humble carpenter and degenerate gambler, a passion and new career were forged. Wine Animal is more than a brand—it’s an extension of me, a reflection of my beliefs, and the legacy I want to leave for my children.
Having a large family was not something I planned while growing up, but it has proven to be the biggest driving force for change. It has pushed me to be better than I was before, to be someone my kids can look up to and aspire to emulate.
Leaving behind a 19-year career in carpentry, as well as a successful business, was not an easy decision for my wife and me. It left us vulnerable and in uncharted waters. How would we cope as a family unit? How would I support my growing family? To add to this monumental career change, we welcomed another child (unexpected, yes, but so deeply loved) just two weeks later. Suddenly, I had to support my wife, our three boys, myself, and a beautiful unborn little girl (yes, I got my princess!).
The added challenge was supporting my wife. Raising three boys is hard enough, but adding pregnancy and a husband (me) gallivanting around the country drinking and eating certainly took a toll on her. I didn’t expect it to be easy, but I also wasn’t prepared for just how difficult it would be. I’ve been so focused on what I’m trying to achieve in this industry that I sometimes lose sight of focusing on family. It’s something I’m working hard on—ensuring I balance family and work. After all, if I were to lose my family, what would be the point of continuing? They are my purpose, and they give my work meaning.
It started off exciting—July 1 hit, and I was no longer a carpenter. I finally had the time to commit to wine events, lunches, and meetings, all things I’d never been able to do properly before due to a lack of time. But I still had to stay on the tools for a while. How else would I support my family? Where would the money come from? That was my biggest fear.
So I worked some days as a chippy to ensure some income. What I realised, though, was that this left me with little time to devote to Wine Animal—time I so desperately needed. Slowly but surely, I began focusing on what I needed for the business. Still, the guilt of letting down my ex-business partner lingered. I didn’t want to leave him in a tough spot, and putting my feelings and needs ahead of others’ was a real challenge.
As humans, we often prioritise others’ feelings over our own, and it’s genuinely hard to put yourself first. But for Wine Animal to achieve the success I envision, I had to dedicate the time it deserved. Gradually, my carpentry days decreased—from one day a week to none at all. Sure, I still do a day here or there to help a friend, but there’s no desire or drive for me to do it anymore.
Wine Animal is now my everything. Outside of my children and wife, it consumes all my time. Unfortunately, this means I’ve neglected friends and extended friendships along the way. It’s a sacrifice, but one I’m willing to make to build something meaningful—not just for myself but for my family and the community I’m creating.