B, short for Bradford, is a Gates Mills resident and owner of vino_type, a thoughtfully curated wine shop and bar in nearby Chesterland. “Wine salesperson, curator, party planner, store decorator,” B says with a grin when asked what his job title is. “We even serve food Friday and Saturday nights, so restaurateur might fit in there too.”

Born and raised in Northeast Ohio, B’s roots run deep in the area. His dad, Bill, and uncle Bud, twin brothers, have lived here for most of their lives, and many of B’s cousins, nieces, and nephews are nearby. After a stretch in Austin, B moved back to Ohio a few years ago and settled temporarily above his dad’s garage. That “temporary” stay led to something better: falling in love with the village, strengthening his bond with family, and eventually buying a home of his own here, where he lives with his girlfriend, Emily Hamilton.

The two are currently restoring their historic home, and enjoying life with their retired greyhound, Wyatt, whose racing days are behind him. These days, like his owners, he prefers a slower pace: lounging, relaxing, and taking in the calm of the neighborhood.

While B studied English at Oberlin, his path eventually led to wine, and not the flashy, overpriced kind either. At vino_type, the goal is connection. “It’s a wine shop and wine bar, but also a space to discover something new, try something different, and meet other people doing the same,” he says. “I’m interested in wines that tell a story and are made by people who care about what’s in the bottle.”

That approach seems to resonate with the community. vino_type regularly hosts tastings, events, and fundraisers. They've worked with Kiwanis, contributed to auctions, and even hosted events to support organizations like the Pompe Alliance. “We’re happy to be in a place where people show up for each other,” he says.

Outside of the shop, B’s favorite local spots reflect his appreciation for quality and craft. Fig Leaf Coffee is a regular stop for beans, and he’s a big fan of Addie’s Cup for espresso and Bam Pow for rare comics. “There’s just something special about being part of a place that values small businesses, nature, and community,” he adds. You’ll often find him walking the trails near the Chagrin or Cuyahoga River or enjoying the simple stillness that Gates Mills offers.

At home, he and Emily are adding native plants to support the nearby waterway that runs behind their house — a passion of hers that’s also part of her work with the Cleveland Water Alliance. “We’re both drawn to things that are rooted in care—for people, for the environment, for craft,” he says.

From holiday gatherings at his dad’s place (complete with a spirited white elephant gift exchange) to serving syrup from his Uncle Bud’s maple syrup crew, the Geauga Sugar Daddies, on the vino_type brunch menu, B's life is filled with local flavor in every sense.

And if you're ever curious about what’s pouring, or just want to talk wine without the pretense, he’s happy to help you find a bottle that fits your vibe. “You don’t need to be a wine expert,” he says. “You just need to know what you like.”

Cheers to that.