Marie Brax – Small Business Owner

Marie Brax has always said the secret to her success as a small business owner in Spartanburg is simple – she loves what she does and she works hard. As the owner and operator of Cheese & Wine Etc., Heavenly Ham and Vern’s, Brax has built all three into thriving businesses along with her children Henry Kohl and Susan Campbell. She also was named the Spartanburg Area Chamber’s 2003 Small Business Person of the Year and finished as first-runner-up for the state award.

Throughout her career as an entrepreneur, which started in 1984 when she opened Cheese & Wine, Etc., Brax has relied upon community banks; you’ll not find her at one of the big banks.

“I just think it makes sense if you are a small local business to do business with another local business,” Brax said. “And with Carolina Alliance, I like all the people there. You’ll not find anyone better anywhere else.”

Brax’ latest business venture was the purchase of the LaBaron Plaza on East Main Street, where all three of her businesses are located. She also has Yanni’s as a tenant.  And, she also caters, has box lunches and has the space to host parties/functions.

LaBaron Plaza
2600 East Main Street, Spartanburg
Cheese & Wine, Etc. - (864) 579-2164
Heavenly Ham - (864) 579-2026
Vern’s – (864) 579-2852

Hours
Cheese & Wine, Etc. and Heavenly Ham – Monday-Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.;
Saturday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Closed Sunday
Vern’s Restaurant – Lunch by reservation; Dinner served through 9 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; Dinner served through 10 p.m. Friday, Saturday; Closed Sunday