Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven and Corey Neuner.
Hi Steven and Corey, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
We started our first “real business,” an insurance brokerage, with a few hundred dollars, out of the guest bedroom of our 1400 sq. ft. home in Frisco, TX. My wife Corey and I were broke and in debt. We didn’t have much, but with love and Corey’s teaching salary, we had all we needed!
Early on, even when we had no resources and our house was far from impressive, Corey and I loved hosting people for dinners. We mixed and matched friends who we thought should meet. We curated everything – from the guest list, the music, and the menu to intentional single-table dinner conversations that cut through the superficial and quickly bonded complete strangers into lifelong friends.
People loved it, and we loved doing it! We even expanded it to our children’s friends and neighbors as a way to build community in the local schools they attended. And as the family grew, along with our means with the success of our business, the house got a little larger, and the parties, while still intimate, became more entertaining and included more people.
With a lot of perseverance, hard work, time, and the blessing of an amazing team, we had the privilege of building, scaling, and ultimately selling the business in the insurance brokerage space. Our success in insurance was rewarding, but we both felt a deeper calling towards a new adventure.
The transition from insurance to our current calling came through an incredible; you wouldn’t believe me if I told you, the discovery of BarnHill Vineyards. Everything about the idyllic place aligned with our values and history of hosting intimate gatherings in our home. Our passion for bringing people together, strengthened through years of curated dinners and community building, found its ultimate expression in this venue.
We immediately fell in love and, over time, realized that buying it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It was a chance for our family to take a risk, leave what was comfortable, and more deeply live into our mission, purpose, and calling. We took the leap of faith and began a long, slow, 2-year transitional journey where we were mentored into the responsibilities of stewarding the land and the operations of the business.
The journey has had its ups and downs, but there isn’t a day our family doesn’t feel super blessed to get to help create laid-back, fun, and memorable events at a one-of-a-kind venue for amazing people who want to strengthen THEIR most important relationships, whether it be a special date night, couples’ night out, small group from church, or private party.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The hardest part was making the jump, leaving what was comfortable behind. You see, while it all makes sense now, it was terrifying at the time. We had just sold our company, a labor of love, for over a decade. As a reward, we remodeled our home completely, down to the closets. We were meticulous with every detail. Our house paid for and required almost no maintenance, as we lived on a small plot and outsourced everything. We cherished our neighbors and the convenience of walking to local spots like the gym, coffee shop, and pizza place. We had outsourced everything, and our investments were passive, requiring little of our time. We thought we were living the dream. We thought we were free.
But then, the series of “Godcidences” led us to BarnHill. Realizing our calling meant embracing what seemed like sacrifices. The most personal change was moving our family, stewarding 40 acres with a vineyard (when I can barely change a light bulb), and caring for our new family members: two rescue horses, one rescue mule, and three donkeys. It appeared to be the antithesis of freedom, yet life’s experience has taught me that the sacrifices made for purposeful causes are always more than worth it.
In these past 2 years, we’ve been immersing ourselves in a new business, forging relationships with our team, and welcoming incredible guests. These experiences have enriched us beyond measure, transforming what once seemed like sacrifices into treasures.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Barnhill Vineyards is a truly unique live music venue in North Texas with a large vineyard, rustic barn, horses, and a beautiful, spacious country setting. We enrich lives through exceptional, unique experiences in an idyllic setting.
We are:
Country but Close!
Breathtaking wide-open spaces (vineyard, sunsets, animals, and farm).
One of a Kind!
Charming rustic barn.
Laid Back Viiibe!
Relaxing atmosphere (fire pits in the winter, s’mores!).
We have live outdoor music at our ticketed concerts, Sip and Shops featuring local artisans and craftspeople, and Sip and Jam wine tastings. We host private and semi “Party within a Party” group events.
We usually feature local food trucks, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and charcuterie. Please note, however, that outside alcohol is not permitted.
We are proud to be one of the most often socially shared and referred event locations in Dallas for date nights and small group outings!
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
There are constant changes happening in the world that will impact us, including new innovations in AI, digital technology, and population growth of Dallas and surrounding areas. The pace of change is only accelerating from my view.
Fortunately for us and the guests who love us, BarnHill Vineyards will remain a peaceful, idyllic place where the best people can UNPLUG and build deeper connections with the people they love through unique experiences that are laid back, fun, and forever memorable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.barnhillvineyards.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barnhillvineyards/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarnHillVineyards
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/barnhill-vineyards
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCME8niWEqM_8bTl2ucL3NAw
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/barnhill-vineyards-anna
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@barnhillvineyards
Image Credits
Zoe Trewin
