How Fervorfish Helped Vino Bella Pivot, Thrive, and Keep the Party Going Even During a Pandemic

When the pandemic hit early in 2020, nearly every business felt the shockwave. For Claude and the team at Vino Bella, Issaquah’s beloved wine bar and cultural hub, the news was devastating. Overnight, their cozy wine tastings, live music nights, and bustling community events came to a sudden halt. Like many small businesses, they faced an uncertain future with doors forced to close.

But Claude did not want to sit still and wait for better days. He knew his customers still craved the warmth, connection, and joy that Vino Bella brought, just in a different form. That is when he reached out to Fervorfish Digital Media for help turning crisis into opportunity.

The Rapid Response: Building a To-Go Sales Website in Record Time

Time was of the essence. Claude needed a way to stay connected with customers and generate income quickly. Our team jumped into action, creating a simple but effective Weebly/Square site in just days. This site let Vino Bella start selling to-go sandwiches, bottles of wine, and other favorites online.

This quick pivot gave Claude’s business a vital lifeline. Customers could safely order their comfort food and drinks for pickup, keeping their Vino Bella tradition alive at home. It was not just about sales, it was about community, continuity, and connection in uncertain times.

 
Vino Bella's original Weebly site to order products online
 

Upgrading the Experience: A Gorgeous, Functional Squarespace Site

As the months rolled on and the world adapted, it was clear Vino Bella needed a stronger, more flexible online presence. We designed and launched a beautiful Squarespace website that truly captured Vino Bella’s spirit and versatility.

But this site was more than just a digital storefront. It gave Claude powerful tools to run his business smoothly and creatively, including:

  • Event management to schedule wine tastings, live music, and art shows with ease,

  • Online ticket sales that made checkout quick and simple for customers,

  • Automatic guest list generation to help keep events organized and safe,

  • A custom seating planning form that collects party preferences right at ticket purchase, simplifying event logistics.

Bringing Safety and Flexibility: Touchless QR Code Menus and Staff Training

When Vino Bella reopened for in-person service, we designed a touchless QR code menu to set clients’ minds at ease and keep everyone safe. This contactless option gave customers confidence to enjoy their evening worry-free.

We also trained Claude’s staff to easily and quickly update the menu using Squarespace’s mobile tools. This flexibility is especially useful since Vino Bella frequently changes its wine selection. Now, the team can make real-time updates without hassle, ensuring the website and QR code menu always reflect the latest offerings.

Bringing Vino Bella’s Story to Life with Graphics and Email Marketing

Of course, a great website and safety measures are only part of the story. To keep the vibe alive and grow the audience, we crafted eye-catching graphics and event promos that pop on social media and email. These visuals bring excitement and personality to every announcement.

We also take care of Vino Bella’s regular email blasts, engaging messages sent directly to Claude’s loyal customer base. These emails share upcoming event details, new menu items, and special offers, helping to build anticipation and repeat visits. Claude often hears from customers saying they look forward to these emails like a friendly invitation from an old friend.

What Claude Says About Working With Us

Claude has been generous with his praise:

“Jamie stepped in right when we needed them most. The quick Weebly site saved us early on, and the Squarespace upgrade has been incredible. Managing events, selling tickets, and even planning guest seating has never been easier. The email campaigns keep our community connected and excited about what’s coming next. Honestly, I don’t know how we’d do it without him.”

Why This Matters for Your Business

Claude’s story is a great example of how smart digital media solutions can turn challenges into growth opportunities. Whether you are facing an unexpected crisis or just want to modernize your marketing, having the right website, tools, and storytelling approach makes all the difference.

Ready to Tell Your Story and Grow Your Business?

If you want to create an online presence that works as hard as you do, Fervorfish Digital Media is here to help. We combine fast, effective web design with creative marketing and ongoing support to keep your business thriving, no matter what the world throws your way.

Get in touch today and let’s start building your success story.

Jamie Fenderson

Independent web publisher, blogger, podcaster… creator of digital worlds. Analyst, designer, storyteller… proud polymath and doer of things. Founder and producer of “the80sand90s.com” and gag-man co-host of the “The 80s and 90s Uncensored” podcast.

https://fervorfish.com/jamie-fenderson
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