Paul and Chrissy met when they were both teachers. Paul taught high school as well as coaching swimming and water polo while Chrissy was an elementary school teacher. Paul left education and pursued a marketing and sales career that eventually led to owning his own small business. He worked hard to build strong teams and develop leaders. Chrissy stayed in education, working as a classroom teacher and now as a math instructional coach.
For years they had used vacations to brewery hop around the country, favoring micro-brews that had a relaxing vibe and plenty of choices. After the birth of their son, Theo, they decided it was time to pursue their passions and open a brewery themselves. They now reside in Lockport with their son, Theo, and their black lab rescue, Knox.
Paul’s family has been in Lockport for generations. Paul’s great-grandparents emigrated to the Lockport/Joliet area around 1900. Paul was raised here, attending Lockport High School and returning to coach/teach after college. After starting a family, they decided to move back to Lockport, a community with good schools and friendly people. They also felt that the community of Lockport was ready for a family-centered business like this. Nik & Ivy Brewing wants to give back to the local community and this is a great way to do that.
Naming a business can be a challenge on so many levels. Do we want to be funny, sweet, family centered? What message do we want to convey? Nik & Ivy brewing got it’s name as many things do; sitting around the family dinner table. Our last name is Ivnik. If you split it in half and turn it around, you get Nik & Ivy. Ivy can grow in the harshest of environments and is constantly climbing, trailing and creeping. It doesn’t hurt that Wrigley Field’s brick wall is covered in it too! We like it and we hope that you do too!
Here Are Ten Questions For Chad
M-W 3-9
Thurs 3-10
Friday 3-11
Saturday 11-11
Sunday 11-8
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