Our Team

Scott Swaldo

GENERAL MANAGER

I joined the team in November of 2009 and am responsible for the oversight of all operations and development. After several career changes I feel like this was what I was meant to do. I love working at Gervasi because of the great people I get to work with everyday who are passionate about what they do and it allows me to be creative and focus my efforts on providing our customers a memorable experience, our employees an opportunity to grow and an enjoyable place to work. What makes the Gervasi experience amazing is our ability to make people feel like they have truly escaped or have been transported to somewhere very special.

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza during a warm summer night at dusk, the gas lanterns lit, the music playing…the feeling is incredible.
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano
Favorite Quote: “Staying the same is falling behind.”

Jeff Hicks

BRAND MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in December of 2009. I manage all of our social media outlets and interact with Gervasi’s on-line community. I am also responsible for monitoring and responding to on-line reviews of Gervasi. I enjoy chatting with Gervasi’s customers and learning more about their experiences here as well as their suggestions. I feel a huge sense of responsibility to promote and advertise Gervasi Vineyard™ and to protect our brand by using social media. I never want our on-line interactions to lose their personal touch!

Favorite GV Spot: The Tavola Lunga, right in front of the big picture windows in the Bistro. I like to sit with my back to the window and watch our customers come and go. Nothing makes me happier than our guests’ smiles!
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite GV Wine: Primitivo! I love the big, bold reds in the winter months but in the summer I drink Lucello. 
Favorite Quote: “You are only as good as the people on your team.” -Ted Swaldo

Tom Blackerby

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Experienced Chief Financial and Executive Officer with a strong work history in the Machinery Industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Sales, Retail Category Management, China Manufacturing and Strategic Sourcing. In my free time, I enjoy fishing, my boat, the Bahamas, and my family.

Favorite GV Spot: Early Mornings, before my day starts I enjoy the serenity of flying my drone over our beautiful property.
Favorite GV Dish: Italian Smash Panini – Italian Meats, Provolone, Pickles, Mustard Aioli.
Favorite GV Wine: Amarone, I enjoy the full bodied nature of this wine and think the process to dry and age the grapes before production is fascinating
Favorite Quote: There is no Substitute for hard work -Thomas Edison

Gretchen Wendell

DIRECTOR OF RESTAURANT AND EVENT OPERATIONS 

I joined the Gervasi team in January of 2010, working in a variety of roles on Gervasi’s main property and at The Twisted Olive™ (sister location). I currently am responsible for all Food and Beverage outlets to ensure our guests have the best quality dining experience we can offer. After working in a variety of upscale hospitality venues it became apparent to me that this family business is very different from the norm, of the sometimes grueling hospitality industry. The continual push to be our best, surpass previous goals, and exceed guests expectations is THE norm here. Words cannot express how fulfilling it is to know I work with a team that shares the same core values. It is easy to feel amazed when you step foot on our property, but beauty is not enough to continue to amaze our repeat guests. Our exceptional staff is what makes this destination truly one of a kind.

Favorite GV Spot: The round table right in front of the fireplace in the Bistro on a snowy winter night
Favorite GV Dish: House Made Gnocchi
Favorite GV Wine: The Abbraccio, our Cabernet is my favorite. It is full bodied red, the perfect thing to relax with after a long but enjoyable day.
Favorite Quote: “It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” -Ernest Hemingway

Brooke Zarconi

SPA OPERATIONS MANAGER

I moved to Canton, Ohio from San Diego, California in September. My husband grew up in the area and we wanted our 6-year-old daughter to be closer to family. I have been in the Spa Industry for 20 years beginning as a Licensed Massage Therapist, transitioning into management, and have had the opportunity to work at some of the most prestigious resort spas in the country! I am beyond grateful that I have been entrusted to open The Spa at Gervasi Vineyard as the Operations Manager! Having the ability to help create something magical here is truly a privilege!

Favorite GV Spot: I love driving through the entrance to Gervasi. It makes you feel like there is magic ahead, and indeed there is…
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Piccata at the Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: Although I love most wines, my favorite is Abbraccio, paired with a great steak!
Favorite Quote:  “I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they’re right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” ― Marilyn Monroe

Suzi Bittner

CONTROLLER

I joined Gervasi in July 2022 as the Controller.  I have been in accounting for over 20 years, and I am beyond thankful that I get to work with such an amazing group of people.  I am grateful that I get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Gervasi every day right here in our community.  Even though I work behind the scenes, it is still rewarding to walk the grounds, see the smiling faces of our customers and getting to be a part of it.  In my free time I enjoy kayaking, hiking, reading, and spending quality time with the special people in my life.

Favorite GV Spot: The small bridge between The Villas and The Piazza overlooking the water.
Favorite GV Dish: Strawberry Salad
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano, but really enjoy Lascito in the summer
Favorite Quote: “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.  You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”  -Eleanor Roosevelt

Andrea Hartman

MARKETING DIRECTOR

I joined the Gervasi Vineyard team in June of 2021 as the Marketing Director. I love how creative I can be while showcasing everything Gervasi Vineyard has to offer. I am in awe everyday when I drive into the beautiful Tuscan inspired property, it reminds me that we are so lucky to have this gem in Canton, Ohio. I so enjoy that I am not only marketing Gervasi Vineyard but I am also marketing those special moments families and loved ones will cherish for a lifetime.

Favorite GV Spot: Sitting by the lake in one of the Adirondack chairs. It is such a picturesque view of the lake, willow trees, and the Villas in the background.
Favorite GV Dish: Blackened Salmon from the Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: ZinZin
Favorite Quote: “Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, be strong and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.”

Lucas Blackerby

SUPPORT MANAGER

I joined Gervasi full time in May of 2021 as a Piazza Support Manager. I had previously served a summer on the Piazza but was recruited back the next summer transitioning into management. I entered the role with very little experience and was challenged each day! I spent the next year working in FOH management until November of 2022 where I have transitioned in to a hiring and operations support role.

Favorite GV Spot: The Tower room in the Crush House
Favorite GV Dish: Kabob Platter on the Piazza
Favorite GV Wine: Amarone
Favorite Quote: “Life is either an incredible adventure, or its nothing at all”

Susan Monteleone

DIRECTOR OF HOTEL AND RESORT  OPERATIONS

I joined the team in February of 2010. It is my responsibility to ensure all guests visiting the Gervasi Vineyard experience all we have to offer, and for guests to walk away wanting to schedule a return visit. I love working here because even though we have separate venues and separate buildings, we work as one team. Our ability to transport our guests to a place and time that allows them to enjoy old world class and an overwhelming sense of style makes the Gervasi experience amazing.

Favorite GV Spot: Sharing food and wine at the Tavola. It’s great to begin an evening with a few old friends and to walk away with a few new ones.
Favorite GV Dish: Artisan Piatti
Favorite GV Wine: Piove
Favorite Quote: “Life isn’t measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Frank Nigaglioni

HOTEL SERVICES MANAGER

I joined the team in July of 2014, and am currently responsible for managing the daily functions of the Villa Operations. My first memory of Gervasi Vineyard™ was sitting in The Crush House and thinking to myself, “Wouldn’t this be a fantastic place to work!” Fast forward several years later, and I can honestly say that thought was so spot on and then some. I am one of those lucky few who can say “I love my job!” From the friendly guest interactions, the camaraderie and the professionalism of my peers, to the picturesque beauty of the Vineyard, I am so honored and fortunate to be a member of the Gervasi Vineyard™ family. What truly makes my day is when I hear feedback from guests about what a fabulous time they had staying at Gervasi and how much they are looking forward to a return visit! Our team and I take great pride in exceeding our guest’s expectations and making their experience a memorable one. Gervasi Vineyard™ is about celebrating life. We have delicious food and award winning wines, but what truly makes the “Gervasi Experience” amazing are our dedicated and professional staff as well as the serene and picturesque beauty of the Vineyard.

Favorite GV Spot: Anywhere with a view of the lake. The beauty of the lake with the swans and the weeping willows, flanked by the elegant Tuscan architecture of the Villas and the Pavilion evoke a sense of serenity that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Favorite GV Dish: My favorite Gervasi menu item is the “Chef Special.” Our fantastic culinary team does a marvelous job of coming up with fresh new entrees using local seasonal ingredients.
Favorite GV Wine: I recommend our award winning Abbraccio (Cabernet Sauvignon) with a good steak. For something semi-sweet, I recommend our Lambrusco paired with some chocolate covered strawberries. Everybody has a different palate for wine so I always recommend doing a tasting at one of our elegant restaurants to see which one of our many wines you prefer. 
Favorite Quote: “Excellence can only be achieved when we push ourselves to our maximum potential.”

Christina Simons

EVENT SALES MANAGER

I have been in the world of hospitality ever since I was a young server dreaming of what the future could bring me if I continued down this path. In high school, I took a marketing course exposing me to the ins and outs of the business world, this was captivating and illuminated the potential career I could have. When the world brought me an opportunity to serve at the Twisted Olive in 2016, I felt as if those dreams for the future were becoming reality. I can still remember driving down our wooded drive during those summer shifts wondering where this new path in life would lead me. Not soon after in 2017 by good graces and commitment, I earned an opportunity to help lead the Twisted Olive  and then was offered an opportunity to take my skill set to the main property, Gervasi Vineyard, and offer support to the Crush House Team.  I feel true fulfillment in knowing that people come to our restaurants to share birthdays, anniversaries, or just an evening of high spirits. On busy night I hear laughter and love filling the rooms, these are the sounds that well forth immense joy from my heart, and I invite you to come experience this joy as well.

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza on a warm summer night
Favorite GV Dish: Twisted Olive, Grilled Chicken Salad
Favorite GV Wine: Fioretto
Favorite Quote: “The best way to predict your future is to create it” -Abraham Lincoln

Carrie Conrad

EVENT SALES SPECIALIST

I started at Gervasi Vineyard 2022 and I help guests find a perfect space on property to host events with their friends, families and loved ones. I have been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years and just love it! People enjoy viewing the Gervasi property and starting their planning process for amazing events that will be held here so much and it’s such a joy being able to help start that process.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing in the Pavilion looking across the pond! So beautiful
Favorite GV Dish: Strawberry Salad with Grilled chicken at the Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Velluto
Favorite Quote: Expect nothing. Appreciate everything.

Stacey Kunkle

EVENT SERVICES MANAGER

I joined the team in May of 2012 and assist guests in planning and executing their dream event. I love working here because of the teamwork. The beautiful scenery, wonderful food and wine and the amazing atmosphere make Gervasi an amazing experience for guests and staff.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing in the Pavilion looking out across the Lake
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio
Favorite Quote: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only turns on the light” -Albus Dumbledore

Maggie McCort

EVENT COORDINATOR

I eagerly joined the Gervasi team in November of 2021. After a few years in the bridal industry I wanted to expand my knowledge and experience and what better place to do that than Gervasi Vineyard! Growing up in the area, Gervasi has had a reputation for good food, great wine, and beautiful weddings, that’s the exact culture I’m thrilled to be a part of!

Favorite GV Spot: the Casa Lobby
Favorite GV Dish: The Cannoli’s
Favorite GV Wine: Lascito
Favorite Quote: “Patience is virtue”

Kelsey Taylor

EVENT COORDINATOR

After earning my Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Organizational, Marketing, and Public Relations), I began working at Gervasi in June of 2020. I supported the events team as a server and bartender for about a year until I accepted a new position as Event Coordinator in October of 2021. While this isn’t a role I previously envisioned for myself, it is one that excites me and allows me to utilize a variety of skills—I’m challenged to be an organized communicator and problem-solver, and ultimately nurture positive relationships with our clients. There is loyalty and a warm sense of community at Gervasi that I feel very thankful for. I’ve made close friends with coworkers as we support one another and share a similar pride in the work we do and where we do it. We are constantly growing and learning new things, which I really love. During my free time, I enjoy spending it with family, grabbing a drink with friends, watching Cleveland sports, going to the gym, and traveling when possible!

Favorite GV Spot: Walking past the lake in the morning and driving off property at night under the illuminated trees
Favorite GV Dish: Tough one! Fresh gnocchi or brussel sprouts from the Twisted Olive
Favorite GV Wine: I really enjoy Nebbiolo and any dry reds from our Italian Collection. During the warmer seasons, my favorite is Lucello.
Favorite Quote: “Seek patience and passion in equal amounts. Patience alone will not build the temple. Passion alone will destroy its walls.” – Maya Angelou

Deanna Boehm

EVENT COORDINATOR

I fell in love with event planning when I living in NYC. When I returned to Ohio, I knew I needed to continue my education to pursue this career. I graduated from Kent State in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication. I had the honor of coming on the team in September 2022. Gervasi is a place where we take pride and joy in the work we are able to do. It’s a privilege to be a part of a team that is so passionate about providing excellence for all our guests who come to enjoy the property. I love traveling with my husband, crocheting, and spending time by our pool with a nice book in my hands. Life is much better when you’re surrounded by the people you love.

Favorite GV Spot: The pavilion overlooking the lake in the fall. The trees are the most vibrant and reflect into the lake. It looks even more beautiful surrounded by beautiful wedding flowers. 
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Piccata from the Bistro and a Cannoli from the Still House for dessert
Favorite GV Wine: Fioretto
Favorite Quote: “Dare to live the life you have dreamed for yourself. Go forward and make your dreams come true.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Eric Rabin

WINERY & DISTILLERY TOUR/EVENT COORDINATOR

I have been in the restaurant/hospitality industry my entire life. I have performed every job title from dishwasher to regional manager at concepts like Red Robin, TGI Fridays, Applebees, Olive Garden, and locally, The Burntwood Tavern. I started with Gervasi Vineyard in October of 2019 as a Bartender in The Crush House. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a bartender, making drinks and interacting with guests here on property. Once the position of Winery and Distillery Tour/Event Coordinator became a full-time position, I jumped on the opportunity and haven’t regretted taking on this new role for a single second. I enjoy talking to our Guests about the history of the property and the direction in which our company is moving. Every time I facilitate a tour I become more excited and appreciative of being able to work here at Gervasi Vineyard. It’s the first time in my life where I feel like I have a career and not a job.

Favorite GV Spot: Driving through our illuminated property at night, especially at Holiday time
Favorite GV Dish: Our Tiramisu. It’s delicious!
Favorite GV Wine: Amarone di Valpolicella. So rich and full-bodied!
Favorite Quote: “Life is a Smorgasbord, and most poor suckers are starving to death!”- Auntie Mame

Jerry Risner

EXECUTIVE CHEF

I joined the team in November of 2009 and oversee all food productions on the property. One of my greatest talents is a willingness to learn. There is always something new to look forward to and Gervasi. The people here makes the Gervasi experience amazing.

Favorite GV Spot: The Orchard
Favorite GV Dish: Any of our homemade pasta dishes
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano

Jade Young

CHEF DE CUISINE AT THE BISTRO

I joined the Gervasi Team in the Summer of 2018. I have had the privilege of working at most of our venues and currently lead our team in the Bistro. The Gervasi Brand, the people I work with and the guests, with all those smiles on their faces, are what makes Gervasi a special place and I am extremely honored to be a part of it all

Favorite GV Spot: Lakeside at night
Favorite GV Dish: What can I say, I love our pizza!
Favorite GV Wine: Any I can cook with, they all can take you down a different path
Favorite Quote: “THE TEAM, THE TEAM, THE TEAM!”. Former University of Michigan Football Coach, Bo Schembechler

Ryan Bowen

BANQUET CHEF

I joined the team in January of 2010. I am responsible for preparing all the food for weddings, corporate and other special events at Gervasi, as well as any off-site events. What I love most about working here is the people I get to work with each day, the new challenges and the opportunities they provide that allow me to continue learning. The level of teamwork and working relationship between the entire event staff is great. Everyone does whatever is needed to ensure that every wedding and special event will meet or exceed the expectations of the guests.

Favorite GV Spot: The path leading from the Pavilion to the Villa Grande on a busy night
Favorite GV Dish: Any of the soups from the Bistro menus, especially the Corn Soup in the summer
Favorite GV Wine: Primitivo and Bellina
Favorite Quote: “”When you acknowledge, as you must, that there is no such thing as perfect food, only the idea of it, then the real purpose of striving toward perfection becomes clear: to make people happy, that is what cooking is all about”

Tori Marion

EXECUTIVE CHEF AT THE CRUSH HOUSE

I joined the Gervasi team in the summer of 2017. I started out as a line cook at The Twisted Olive and have worked my way up over the years. I now have the opportunity to lead The Crush House kitchen and staff. My journey with this company has been amazing and an experience that I will never forget. I have learned from some of the greatest chefs here and enjoy my job every day. The great thing about this job is I continue to learn something new every day and get to work with some of the most amazing people around.

Favorite GV spot: The Villas because they are beautiful to stay in and an amazing experience everyone should have at least once.
Favorite GV dish: Greek Chicken Orzo              
Favorite GV wine: Piove         
Favorite Quote: “Put your head down and work hard. Never wait for things to happen, make them happen for yourself through hard graft and not giving up.”

Austin Fowler

HEAD CHEF AT THE PIAZZA & SOUS CHEF

I began working at Gervasi in July of 2011 as a dishwasher. I have had the privilege of working in all of the Gervasi kitchens at least once during my time here and have really grown with the company. I am currently in charge of running our Piazza kitchen during the Summer, and assisting our other chefs throughout the winter. The best part about Gervasi is the talent and experience we have in staff across the property. I’ve been able to meet some awesome people while working here and hope to meet even more as the journey continues.

Favorite GV Spot: The Cigar Patio
Favorite GV Dish: Guiseppe Pizza
Favorite GV Wine: I’m more of a beer guy myself. Jabberwocky, a GV crafted beer brewed by Thirsty Dog, is a great choice!
Favorite Quote: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.” – Steve Prefontaine

Casper Mast

PASTRY CHEF

I started at Gervasi in the summer of 2015 as a dishwasher at the Villa Grande, I worked my way up and learned everything I could from so many talented people until I became the Pastry Chef. I love the fine science behind baking and how everything comes together.

My favorite part of my job is the opportunity to work in the Villa Grande and seeing all the weddings come to life and each couples own personal touch. Champagne Ladies, Bride and Groom Alpacas, Cultural Dances, Horse drawn Carriages, The Cakes, The Gowns, The décor. You get to see into each couples fairy tale wedding and I don’t think anything could be more special.

Favorite GV Spot: My Favorite Spot in the Winter is in front of the Bistro, Especially if you can catch the fresh early snow and the big tree is encased in ice. it just looks like a winter wonderland!
In the Fall, it’s in front of the Crush House because I feel you can see the most trees and its so vibrant in color.
In the summer, it’s on little bridge near the lake by the Piazza. With all the weeping willows and the water going over the rocks on the other wide of the bridge. It’s like a painting!
Favorite GV Dish: Definitely the beef gnocchi and the hazelnut brownies! 
Favorite GV Wine: I’m a sucker for dessert wine, so it’d have to be Sognata or Moscato
Favorite Quote:  “It’s gonna be champagne wishes and caviar dreams from now on” – Donkey (Shrek)

Bill Slosser

BISTRO & PIAZZA OPERATIONS MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in May of 2012, working in a variety of the main property buildings, and then taking the opportunity to move to our sister location, The Twisted Olive for several years as the Operations Manager. I am now back to the cornerstone of our properties, The Bistro, and thrilled to be leading the team there and seasonally on the Piazza.  My role is to ensure guests have the best dining experience we can offer, overseeing staff, and normal day to day operations of both outlets. Being part of an environment that is ever growing and locally focused is exceptionally rewarding. I am proud to be a part of a business that instills a passion throughout our tight knit “family”. The people here are what make the experience so amazing. The passion from the Swaldo family is felt throughout each and every department.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing behind any one of our bars and see our bar team expertly craft our cocktails that I have developed
Favorite GV Dish: The Piazza Vegan Italian Sausage Sub, with Onions and Peppers and Housemade Spicy Marinara
Favorite GV Wine: Malvasia Bianca
Favorite Quote: “I wanna leave my footprints on the sands of time. Know there was something that, meant something that I left behind.” ~ B. Knowles-Carter

Brad Preston

WINE STEWARD & BISTRO EVENT COORDINATOR

I joined the Gervasi team in October of 2012, working as a server in The Bistro. My role at The Twisted Olive™ is the point of contact after you book your special event with us! Together we will make certain that your event will not only be special but extraordinary as well. I wanted to be the wine steward because of the passion that I have for wine, the process of making wine, and of course Gervasi. I am looking forward to working with the winery team to further my education and then passing that education on to not only employees but guests as well. To be a part of a team that not only strives for excellence and growth but makes you feel part of the family, is indescribable. The level of professionalism and standards set are everything that I love about the GV Destination venues. From top to bottom both properties nail the definition of what a perfect experience is. The landscape, the food, the service, and most certainly the wine, come together to create Gervasi Destinations.

Favorite GV Dish: The Twisted Olive™ Seared Sea Scallops with Red Pepper Jam and Fresh Basil Cream.
Favorite GV Wine: I appreciate ALL wine, but of course I do have some favorites! The Malvasia Bianca is my favorite white because I love the perfect blend of the floral and citrus notes. The Abbraccio is such a wonderful cabernet with a nice round finish. 
Favorite Quote: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great” -Zig Ziglar

Jason Ours

BISTRO & PIAZZA ASSISTANT MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in August 2016 as a bartender at The Twisted Olive. My role has evolved from when I first started at TTO, I moved into a support manager role on the Piazza and then had the opportunity to become the Bistro and Piazza Assistant manager. I love how beautiful the grounds look from the Bistro windows in the middle of a snowstorm, it becomes so quiet and peaceful, and you truly don’t feel like you’re in Ohio.

Favorite GV Spot: Listening to live music on the Piazza!
Favorite GV Dish: Rock Shrimp Carbonara at the Bistro.
Favorite GV Wine: Lascito
Favorite Quote: “It does not do well to dwell on dreams and forget to live.”- Albus Dumbledore

Kristen Fuller

BISTRO & PIAZZA ASSISTANT MANAGER

I started on The Piazza as a server in June of 2020. I knew from my first day that something was unique about Gervasi. There is a warmness that comes from the staff property wide and it is special to work with people who care about each and every guest as well as each other. In May of 2021 I accepted a management position. I would have never envisioned myself in my current role, and I am grateful and excited to have landed somewhere that challenges me daily while helping me grow. My favorite part of my job is watching employees gain confidence in their roles and being there to support them on a daily basis. Gervasi is such a special place where so many come to celebrate big life events. Being able to play a part in that is so rewarding. During my free time you can find me somewhere with my two dogs, probably fishing or kayaking on the lake.

Favorite GV Spot: Warming up by The Piazza fire pit after a busy fall evening
Favorite GV Dish: Mushroom Ravioli from The Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: Bellina
Favorite Quote: “Expose yourself to your deepest fear, after that you are free” Jim Morrison

Spencer Davis

CRUSH HOUSE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I worked here at Gervasi for six years before returning to the team in June of 2021. I’ve worked in several venues, including The Bistro and The Twisted Olive, but have spent most of my time in various roles at The Crush House. Of all my time in various places, I have to say that Gervasi is, truly, a special entity. It is wonderful to work at a place where there are so many fun places to visit and beautiful sights to see. There is nothing I enjoy more than to work for a locally owned company that pours so much of itself into the business and its employees. It is evident just how much the Swaldo family cares in the continued growth and success of of everything here.

Favorite GV Spot: Probably any of our bars. As a former bartender, I enjoy the “controlled chaos” that happens there on a busy night.
Favorite GV Dish: Apple and Dried Fig Salad with Salmon at TTO. I also love the brussels sprouts there!
Favorite GV Wine: Velluto
Favorite Quote: “Do I need to be liked? Absolutely not. I like to be liked. I enjoy being liked. I have to be liked, but it’s not like this compulsive need to be liked, like my need to be praised.” — Michael Scott, The Office

John Lilley

STILL HOUSE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I started in food service at 16 years old. I have been in many different environments from catering, short order, casual dining, cafeteria, corporate and family owned. I have 15 years of kitchen experience and 10 years of service experience. I spent the last four years as GM of a full service restaurant with a music venue attached. I am new to Gervasi but fell in love with it instantly because of the beautiful scenery, great food, and impressive venues across the entire property.

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza
Favorite GV Wine: Piove
Favorite Quote: “Calm leads calm”

Shawn Allen

STILL HOUSE ASSISTANT MANAGER

I grew up in Ohio and later moved to New Orleans where I attended Tulane University, and began my career in the service industry on Bourbon Street. I continued to do so for nearly 18 years working at multiple bars, restaurants and live entertainment venues. I recently moved back to Ohio with my wife, Ashton, and son, Cullen, and joined the Gervasi family in May of 2021 as the Assistant Manager of The Still House.

Favorite GV Spot: The Still House
Favorite GV Dish: Smoked Pork Chop from The Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio
Favorite Quote: “ If you aren’t gonna say exactly how and what you feel, you might as well not say anything at all.” – Johnny Cash

David Smith

HEAD WINEMAKER

I joined the team in December 2011 and coordinate with the winemaking team to ensure quality control throughout the winemaking process, manage the laboratory and perform all necessary analyses, maintain bottling equipment and oversee bottling operations. Gervasi promotes a positive working environment with an emphasis on quality. As part of the winemaking team I feel this facilitates my desire to craft exceptional wines. I find Gervasi to be an immersive experience. Once you drive through the iron arch beautiful scenery gives a sense of leaving your routine behind. You can focus on the moment at hand and enjoy the friends you came with.

Favorite GV Spot: The bridge over the spillway on a cool autumn morning as the mist rises from the lake.
Favorite GV Dish: I love the Bianco Pizza, the flavors are always exceptional.
Favorite GV Wine: I think if I had a favorite it would make all the other wines we produce jealous. However, I do particularly enjoy making, and drinking, Bellina. The barrels literally sing during fermentation, and I find it fascinating how the wine matures and changes during the sur lie aging.
Favorite Quote: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed” ~ Response in preparation for receiving Holy Eucharist, derived from Mathew 8:8

Andrew Codispoti

WINEMAKER EMERITUS

I joined the team in February 2009 and am privileged to design our wines, oversee winery development, production and inventory as well as manage the wine portfolio strategy. I find satisfaction integrating the romance of wine with the principles of organization, process control, writing and teaching. The irresistible opportunity to exercise passion and creativity in a rewarding environment in addition to interaction with our guests and the community makes my job the best in town. The overall attention to excellence and the regard for those who create and those who come to appreciate the Gervasi Experience makes a compelling environment.

Favorite GV Spot: Spending warm summer evenings on the Piazza sharing food and wine with family and friends completes my enjoyment of our fabulous operation.
Favorite GV Dish: While I love all of our food, I can’t resist the pizzas.
Favorite GV Wine: The one I am drinking at the moment.
Favorite Quote: “Lucidare le scarpe” – Remember to shine the shoes” ~ Vincenzo Salvatore Codispoti

Shae Pridemore

HEAD DISTILLER

I started at Gervasi in February of 2020 and run the day to day operations at the distillery. From lab analysis, product development, constant quality control and a drive to be on the cutting edge with new techniques to keep Gervasi standards above the rest. I have a long heritage of winemakers, brewers and distillers that run in my family and it’s this heritage that I am excited to bring to Gervasi.

Favorite GV Spot: In the early morning as the sun is rising and the deer are grazing amongst the vines.
Favorite GV Dish: The famous Cannoli we have at The Still House
Favorite GV Wine: Passione
Favorite GV Spirit: Rum Barrel Bourbon
Favorite Quote: “I would rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.” George Washington

Sandy Fraedrich

MARKETPLACE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in May of 2019. Having been in Retail for over 20 years, The Marketplace is everything I dreamed of being a part of – a retail experience like no other. Whether it is discussing our Wines, Spirits or any of the unique boutique lines we carry, being part of our Guests experience is by far the most rewarding. I feel blessed  that I get to work with such an amazing team and equally amazing guests every day.

Favorite GV Spot: Enjoying date night with my husband, with a glass of Fioretto in hand at a table just outside The Marketplace on a Saturday evening in the Summer listening to the music, laughter and love coming from the wedding reception in the Pavilion.
Favorite GV Dish: Short Rib Sliders at The Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio is my love but Fioretto is my summer go to.
Favorite Quote: “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters.” – Audrey Hepburn 

Christi Blackerby

MARKETPLACE RETAIL BUYER

Experienced Retail Buyer, I enjoy the process of reviewing our current product lines to ensure the shop’s market competitiveness. Our marketplace team cares deeply about carrying unique new boutique lines. In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my family and the sunshine!

Favorite GV Spot: Quiet mornings the Marketplace when we have finished a new seasonal floor set that we are ready to release to the public, simply magical!!
Favorite GV Dish: The Piazza Grilled Chicken and Chorizo Bowl; Manchego Chorizo Cheese Sauce, Street Corn, Pico, Fresh Lime
Favorite GV Wine: Velluto, our Pinot Noir, and I love the Goombay Girl Cocktail on the Piazza!
Favorite Quote: “Eyes bright, chins up, smiles on.” -Effie Trinket