Spotlight on Gary Juels

New Member of FOVEC and Owner of Fair Oaks Brew Pub - a Classy Pub with a Comfortable Atmosphere at 7988 California Ave.

We're pleased to introduce Gary & Wei Juels, owners of the Fair Oaks Brew Pub and new FOVEC Member, in our Business Spotlight Series.

We're spotlighting various merchants in the Fair Oaks Village, as well as individuals who support what FOVEC does, all while giving you a little insight into our history and what we do for the Village. We encourage you to share these local stories and visit with merchants to get to know them firsthand.

We connected with Gary Juels to learn more about him and the Fair Oaks Brew Pub.

What is Fair Oaks Brew Pub and how would you describe it to a friend?

The Fair Oaks Brew Pub is classy (for a pub) with a comfortable atmosphere that is suitable for all.

There's a beer on tap for everyone! If you don’t like beer, there's a nice selection of craft wines. If that’s not enough, we have classic cocktails and a unique selection of whiskey and spirits.

Great thin crust pizzas, salads, burgers, sandwiches, soups, and the best giant pretzel in town.

What did you do before owning the Brew Pub?

I've done quite a few things but most recent and notable was Commercial and Residential Finance (I was self employed for 10 years and spent a few years as an adviser with a big box company).

I also worked nights and weekends as brewer for Mary Pizza Shack Micro Brewery. I made their beer in the Rocklin Store while they were open, 4 or 5 years, I think.

Why did you start the business? What do you hope to accomplish?

I've lived in Fair Oaks since ‘95 and love the village. I wanted to do something close to home and offer some variety to Old Fair Oaks.

I knew I'd be there 15 hrs a day, so I made it a place where people could be comfortable like a home. Slocum House closed about 10 or so years ago and there was a void in things to do in the village.

I knew how to brew beer and I love pizza. Beer and pizza is fun, so I started with that. I grew up in a similar small town and it seemed the community always socialized in the “local, comfortable spot.” I wanted to accomplish something with that vibe.

What's something you wish people knew about your business?

Like every small business, “IT AIN’T EASY”, and we give A LOT to local charities.

What is a common question you get?

“How long have you been here?” and the answer is 4 years. We get “seems like its been here for 50” or “I can't believe we live 2 miles away and haven’t stopped in.”

What is your most popular product or service?

Our Staff!

Let's be honest, just about anyone can make food, sell beer and cocktails, etcetera, but you can't just hire genuine people who love coming work.

From the front of the house to the back of the house, it’s all the same. Our staff's attitudes are authentic, contagious, and unscripted. We love our staff!

What's the biggest compliment you've received?

“It feels warm and inviting in here, the staff is wonderful " and “You’ve done a lot for Old Fair Oaks."

Are you involved with or do you support any local nonprofits, community organizations or causes?

We give till it hurts: that's how you know it’s a gift ;)

Rotary, Waldorrf, St Mells, St Francis, Bella Vista, we sponsor 3 Fair Oaks Parks & Rec softball teams, local artists, musicians, Chamber, Fair Oaks Theatre Festival, Fine Young Professionals, can drives, food drives, off the top of my head... there's about 10 or so more that slip my mind right now.

Are you a member of the chamber or any other networking organizations?

We are members of the Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce.

Do you have any upcoming events that people should know about?

We always got something cooking, usually short notice. Most prominently, 5 outdoor concerts at the Fair Oaks Theater Festival (see their website for bands, tickets, times, and dates).

Although you are new to FOVEC what are you hoping to get from volunteering at FOVEC?

I want to be involved in the growth of the community, be aware of changes or plans, and provide a voice for the patrons in the village.