What came first: business or love?
Ralu: Love did definitely come first and still does. When we first started dating, COVID-19 restrictions were still very much around, and our idea of romance was sitting on our balcony in Brussels sipping wine and dreaming of business ideas. I guess in many ways, our date nights are still the same. The only difference now is that our dreams are more concrete.
Hans: We fell in love first, but developing a shared project also strengthened our relationship. We learned how to work together, how to communicate more more effectively, and how to resolve inevitable conflict faster through the work.
How do we balance love and working together?
Ralu: It's sometimes really hard to keep these two worlds apart, so what often happens is we mix work and love in more creative ways. Some of our best ideas have come brainstorming over a bottle (or two..) of wine during our Tuesday night date nights or dreaming up business plans on a sandy beach in Aruba. That holiday was full of business inspiration, but it never stops us from having unforgettable memories.
Hans: We are pretty good at knowing when to stop talking shop. What helps is that we are both invested in growing WineLion, so it never actually feels like real work.
What advice would you give to other couples thinking about starting a business together?
Ralu: Communication, patience, and mutual respect are essential. Running a business together can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its challenges. Be prepared to navigate highs and lows together, and remember to prioritize your relationship above all else.
Hans: And don't forget to celebrate the small victories along the way. Building a business together is a journey, and it's important to acknowledge and appreciate every milestone, no matter how small. At the end of the day, it's these moments that strengthen your bond and fuel your passion for what you do.