From Uvalde to NYC to Fayette Co. – The Woman Behind Three Local Businesses

Positively Inspirational: A Monthly Spotlight

In this monthly series, local realtor Andrea Schutter Riebeling does a Q & A with local business leaders about what inspires them. This month’s spotlight is Beth Johnson, owner of three local businesses, The Crown Bar in La Grange, Dirty Bohemian in Round Top and the soon-to-be-open-full-time Crown Halles Bar in RoundTop.

1.) What is your business? I own the Crown Bar in La Grange with my partner (in all ways) Andy Johnson and my dad Larry Weishuhn. I also own Dirty Bohemian, a custom clothing company & antique business.

2.) How did you get started?

I got my start as a jewelry designer in 2002 and then owned Huntson Clothing Company in Uvalde for 10 years. During this time, I also set up in Warrenton at the antique show with my designs and curated antique selections at what is now The Glamp Inn, then Renck Hall, Zapp Hall, and Marburger.

After a short stint in New York, I moved back to Texas to my favorite place and my family’s home in Round Top. I opened Dirty Bohemian, featured in Texas Monthly and other national publications, on Rummel Square where I stayed open for two years. When the proposition to open and decorate the bar in the oldest original building standing in La Grange came about, I jumped at the opportunity.

3.) How long have you been in business?

The Crown Bar in La Grange will be celebrating its one-year anniversary on Sept. 17. We had the Crown Halles Bar open during the Spring Show, and with the addition of the restaurant, will be open year-round starting Sept. 23 with our favorite Austin band, Pendulum Hearts, on that Friday, Sept 23. The John Evans Band will play on Sat., Sept. 24.

4.) Is this a family or Female business?

Our businesses are all about family. Our business model is basically style plus kindness.

5.) What kind of service do you provide?

When we opened the first bar, we were determined to create an upscale environment that was welcoming to all. Handcrafted cocktails made with with premium liquors and fresh ingredients. We like to invoke all the senses, from the super comfy vintage chairs, hand-picked bands, amazing cocktails, and signature scents, to all the local and sometimes famous characters you’ll see in our bars.

6.) Tell me something unique about your business?

Something unique about our business, we have lots of surprises in our bar if you look closely enough. Our bar lights are submarine missile covers from a submarine decommissioned in the 1980s. The cigarette machine in our stairwell is from 1941. We have one unique surprise in our bar no one can find, The Crown Crow. Stop by and see if you can find him.

7.) What do you suggest to others who want to venture out and take a leap of action in the future of their career?

My recommendation to anyone who wants to step out and follow their passion is to simply not let anyone stand in the way of your vision and drive to achieve your vision. Stay focused and don’t let little problems force you to stop from realizing your dream.

8.) Do you believe in college, trade school, or any training?

I believe in college, trade school, school of hard knocks, just keep moving forward and hustling.

9.) How did you decide to make Round Top your home?

Round Top has been my favorite place for ages. I first came to the antique show in 1999. My family is here, and when I couldn’t stand living in New York anymore (it only took me 1.5 years), I moved to my safe place, close to my family, friends, and business that I love.

10.) What makes you laugh?

My business partner Andy makes me laugh the most. Anyone who knows him would agree.

Johnson will be opening The Crowne Halles bar & restaurant in Round Top full-time with my partners on Sept. 23. The Crown Bar in La Grange is located at 114 S. Main St.