Laurie Wolford was practicing law at a local firm, enjoying wine and spirits as a hobby, when she heard the prior owner of Spirit World was looking to find someone to take over the business.  She thought about it for several months before realizing that this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something she loved. Two months later, she signed the paperwork.  Spirit World is a gourmet deli and specialty wine and spirits store located in midtown Omaha, Nebraska.

Tell us a little about your family.
I am lucky to be married to my best friend and biggest supporter, Eric. We met on a plane (people are always fascinated by that).  We have a 16-month old daughter, Quinn, who is hilarious and sweet, and a mini version of my husband.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Deciding to move back to Nebraska to go to law school.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Spend time with my family. I also really enjoy being active – running, yoga, pilates, swimming. And I love to explore Omaha restaurants.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
Back when I had free time, I used to do triathlons. And I didn’t come in last!

What are you the most proud of?
The leap of faith I took to quit my law practice and take over this business. I’m a risk-averse person by nature, so it was definitely outside my normal comfort zone.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Do what you love and the rest will follow.

What is the one goal you would most like to accomplish?
I would like to give my daughter every possible opportunity to succeed. It’s what my parents have done for me, and what I would like to pass down to her.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?
I sometimes think I want to be able to see into the future. Then again, I can see how that may ruin some of the excitement and enjoyment of the present.

What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I suppose I’m fairly athletic. When I had the time to train, I ran decent 10k and half-marathon times.

Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to relax and enjoy doing nothing. I’m always thinking about what else needs to get done, and it would be nice to occasionally be able to let that go and just relax.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
I just finished The Help, which was so good it kept me up late for two weeks.

What is your favorite movie?
I’m tempted to lie here, but my husband will call me out if I do. I watch You’ve Got Mail every time it’s on tv, despite the fact that I own it.

What is your favorite TV show?
Fringe and Dexter are two favorites.

What is your favorite local restaurant?
Spirit World, of course. After that, Jaipur, Vincenzo’s, Jam’s, M’s, B&G…

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Based on her recent success in the spirits industry, I think I would learn a lot from Bethenny Frankel.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Stop by Spirit World! Or call (402) 391-8680 or email lhellbusch@spiritworldwine.com. They can also visit our website at www.spiritworldwine.com.