Ground Control: Craft Beer, Sustainability, and Community in Wenatchee
Since moving to Wenatchee from Charleston, SC, in April 2023, Danielle and Justin Dybowski have quickly made their mark on the local scene with their innovative establishment, Ground Control. Seeking a complete lifestyle change and proximity to Danielle's family, they fell in love with Wenatchee's natural beauty and charming downtown atmosphere.
The idea for Ground Control had been brewing for some time, with Danielle and Justin dreaming of opening their own brewery. During the COVID lockdown, when both found themselves out of work, they began seriously planning a bottle shop and taproom to celebrate craft beer from across the country and internationally. Their dream came to fruition with Ground Control, which features a diverse selection of rare and unique drinks, including smoothie-style beers and certain sours, often sourced from distributors in the Seattle area. "We like to have options for everyone, whether they are a beer drinker or living sober," the couple explained.
Integral to Ground Control is the Earth Goddess Refillery, Danielle’s passion project. "The refillery is a sustainable boutique tucked in the back of Ground Control," Danielle described, "featuring zero-waste products for bath, body, home, pet, and self-care." Most of these products are handcrafted locally by Danielle or her mother, Theresa, while others are ethically sourced from women, femme-forward, or queer-owned small businesses. This commitment to sustainability and supporting small businesses reflects Danielle’s background as an artisan market organizer.
Located in the quaint and community-oriented downtown Wenatchee, Ground Control has quickly become a local favorite. The Dybowskis cherish the sense of community and the support they’ve received from fellow local business owners. However, they also acknowledge the challenges of being new to the area, particularly the cultural tendency for people to stay home unless there’s an event. To address this, Ground Control hosts a variety of community events, from trivia nights to themed markets. Their most memorable events include the Feminist Magic Market, Scene-ior Prom, and the Boozy Book Fair, each bringing unique energy and engagement from the community.
Looking ahead, they are excited for their One Year Birthday Bash on July 20th, featuring live music, an artisan market, and a special beer release. "We strive to be a welcoming, inclusive, and safe space for all," Danielle and Justin emphasized, making Ground Control a cornerstone of Wenatchee’s downtown renaissance.