Paddler’s Alehouse was established in 2021 by proprietors Chris and Stephanie Wiens. After much preparation, sweat, tears, and a whole lot of beer they were finally able to open doors in February of 2022. Paddler’s Alehouse was created with the mission of supporting local and an ideology of exposing and educating people about the many different and amazing styles of beer. All the beers on tap are from small craft breweries within approximately 150 miles of northern Idaho. Paddler’s Alehouse is a small and friendly neighborhood taphouse
As a self-proclaimed “jack-of-all”, Chris found himself in many different industries and career fields but was never satisfied with working for someone else. Many ideas passed through his mind while consuming many, many……. many beers, the concept hit him like an ocean wave almost drowning him, figuratively of course. After many discussions with his amazing wife and partner, Stephanie, they decided to go for it and haven’t looked back since.
Stephanie and her husband Chris just want to give back to their community that they love so much. They always try to support local businesses and want to help the locals as much as they can. They have big dreams and plans for Paddler’s Alehouse and want to make it a must stop place for all locals and visitors.
Having been raised in the Sandpoint area has fostered a connection with the area that only some understand. A deep desire to support the community which has supported them has been the driving force for everything they do. Which is why you will only find locally crafted beers on tap or local venders showcasing their goods.
Chris was born and raised in Northern Idaho but finished high school in Toledo, Oregon. After high school Chris joined the U.S. Army as a Blackhawk Helicopter Mechanic and served two tours in Iraq. After receiving an honorable discharge, he found a desire to continue serving his community and joined the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol deputy. Looking for a change in pace, Chris spent time in the greater Seattle area and northern California before coming back to what has always been home. During his travels, Chris worked as an insurance agent, tasting room host / cellar assistant / marketing and compliance for a winery in northern California, finally going back to school in Seattle. Chris received his degree in Mechanical Drafting and went to work for Quest (Daher) in Sandpoint Idaho. Noticing familiar helicopters flying across the runway, Chris found himself yearning to reconnect with the aircraft. Chris was hired on as a mechanic and acquired his FAA Airframe and Powerplant license, eventually moving up to hanger maintenance manager. Chris has finally found a place where he can call his own while being able to educate people and share the love of craft beer. But, as always, there are never ending plans in the making…….
Stephanie was born in Berlin, Wisconsin but when she was 2 years old her parents, Larry and Patricia Schranck, decided to move and homestead in Sagle, ID next to beautiful Jewel Lake. Stephanie has always felt very fortunate to have her parents still living in her childhood home as it brings back wonderful childhood memories every time. She was never bored as a child as the family raised Llama’s and was always surrounded by 3 brothers and 4 sisters to play with.
Stephanie went to Southside Elementary School, Sandpoint Middle School and she graduated from Sandpoint High School in 2001 playing Powderpuff every year. After graduating, Stephanie never ventured far from “home” because of her love of the area and the desire to raise her children in Sandpoint. Before opening Paddler’s Alehouse with her husband Chris, Stephanie worked in the medical field for 12 years doing reception work, scribing for a pediatric physician and being a cardiopulmonary technician at Bonner General Hospital.
When Stephanie isn’t working at Paddler’s she loves spending time on the water with her friends and family. She enjoys going for walks around Traver’s Park and lounging outside with a good book and cold drink. During the colder months she loves lounging on the couch with her family and sledding at her parent’s house with her many nieces and nephews.
