Ida Veliu
Ida Veliu is a seasoned entrepreneur, real estate investor, and business owner based in Columbus, Ohio, with a career spanning over 25 years in both real estate and the hospitality industry. Alongside her husband, she has built a legacy of opening and operating more than 25 restaurants throughout the city, developing a deep understanding of creating vibrant spaces where people gather, connect, and celebrate. Her extensive experience in real estate complements her hospitality ventures, allowing her to thoughtfully integrate properties into thriving, community-focused destinations.
In 2022, Ida founded Ohio Brewing Company, transforming a historic building into a museum-like brewery that offers exceptional craft beer, live music, and a full-service culinary experience. She personally oversaw the renovation of the space over three years, preserving its industrial character while weaving in elements of Ohio history to create a unique and memorable atmosphere. The venue serves as a dynamic destination for events ranging from weddings to corporate gatherings, reflecting Ida’s philosophy that hospitality is about more than food and drink—it’s about crafting experiences that make people feel welcomed, valued, and inspired.
Ida’s professional focus centers on combining community, history, and high-quality service to build layered, meaningful experiences. She continues to expand her footprint in real estate and mixed-use hospitality, remaining hands-on as a general partner to shape not just investments, but the full customer experience. Driven by resilience, integrity, and a passion for growth, Ida has become a recognized leader in her field, dedicated to creating spaces and businesses that leave a lasting impact on both her team and her community.
• Church involvement
• High school programs and sports support
What do you attribute your success to?
I didn't do this alone - I had my husband Jim by my side, and I still feel his blessing from above. I also attribute my success to all the people around me, especially my friends who have supported me over the last 3 years since he passed away. I was texting a friend recently and said I don't know how to say thank you enough - it really goes deep for me, all the people I've had on my journey these last 3 years. It means a lot. But beyond the people, I find peace in building something with purpose. When I build something I'm proud of and I know how I show up, that gives me peace. Success isn't just about what you achieve - it's about how you leave it, how you carry yourself when you've achieved it. Do you still keep yourself humble? Do you still say hi to people? Do you give phone calls to the friends who supported you to get there? I'm the kind of person who never forgets my people. I don't forget those who helped me, though I will cut people off who bring mess to my table. But I value people, all the people around me, and I always wish them better life, better success, better heart.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be yourself out there. Be humble, stay your feet on the ground, and work with people. Everything comes with prices, and the price is your time - how much time you want to spend. You won't have all the answers, but you need to have courage and be brave with your decisions. Not all decisions will be the right ones - you can make mistakes along the road, and you'll face different paths. But here's the key: stop waiting for permission. As women, we're often stopping ourselves, second-guessing ourselves. However, prepare yourself, over-prepare, and then don't wait for everything to be perfect before you do something. Nothing is going to be perfect. Growth comes with mistakes - I've done so many mistakes and I still do. Choose your environment carefully, the people you surround yourself with, because not everything on the table is meant for you. Remember the 80-20 rule in business. You need strength and empathy - value the people who work around you, make them feel special. That's a powerful combination. Success isn't about titles or trophies - I don't need any title. I just want to sit down, have good drinks, and have a talk. And don't be afraid to make mistakes and fail fast - when you do fall, learn from it, understand it, and get back up again so you can continue to grow.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field right now are expanding hospitality concepts into upscale experiences and new markets, as well as developing mixed-use projects that blend hospitality with residential spaces. The main challenges involve the intense time and effort required to scale businesses, managing pricing and operational pressures, and balancing family and community responsibilities, which makes having a trusted team essential for success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in work and life are humility, respect for others, integrity, empathy paired with strength, gratitude, and leading with purpose.