Our Team

Scott Swaldo

CEO/GENERAL MANAGER

I joined the team in November of 2009 and am responsible for the oversight of all operations and development. After several career changes I feel like this was what I was meant to do. I love working at Gervasi because of the great people I get to work with everyday who are passionate about what they do and it allows me to be creative and focus my efforts on providing our customers a memorable experience, our employees an opportunity to grow and an enjoyable place to work. What makes the Gervasi experience amazing is our ability to make people feel like they have truly escaped or have been transported to somewhere very special.

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza during a warm summer night at dusk, the gas lanterns lit, the music playing…the feeling is incredible.
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite GV Wine: Truscano
Favorite Quote: “Staying the same is falling behind.”

Jeff Hicks

BRAND MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in December of 2009. I manage all of our social media outlets and interact with Gervasi’s on-line community. I am also responsible for monitoring and responding to on-line reviews of Gervasi. I enjoy chatting with Gervasi’s customers and learning more about their experiences here as well as their suggestions. I feel a huge sense of responsibility to promote and advertise Gervasi Vineyard™ and to protect our brand by using social media. I never want our on-line interactions to lose their personal touch!

Favorite GV Spot: The Tavola Lunga, right in front of the big picture windows in the Bistro. I like to sit with my back to the window and watch our customers come and go. Nothing makes me happier than our guests’ smiles!
Favorite GV Dish: Tuscan Beef Short Ribs
Favorite GV Wine: Primitivo! I love the big, bold reds in the winter months but in the summer I drink Lucello. 
Favorite Quote: “You are only as good as the people on your team.” -Ted Swaldo

Tom Blackerby

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Experienced Chief Financial and Executive Officer with a strong work history in the Machinery Industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Sales, Retail Category Management, China Manufacturing and Strategic Sourcing. In my free time, I enjoy fishing, my boat, the Bahamas, and my family.

Favorite GV Spot: Early Mornings, before my day starts I enjoy the serenity of flying my drone over our beautiful property.
Favorite GV Dish: Italian Smash Panini – Italian Meats, Provolone, Pickles, Mustard Aioli.
Favorite GV Wine: Amarone, I enjoy the full bodied nature of this wine and think the process to dry and age the grapes before production is fascinating
Favorite Quote: There is no Substitute for hard work -Thomas Edison

Gretchen Wendell

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER – FOOD & BEVERAGE

I joined the Gervasi team in January of 2010, working in a variety of roles on Gervasi’s main property and at The Twisted Olive™ (sister location). I currently am responsible for all Food and Beverage outlets to ensure our guests have the best quality dining experience we can offer. After working in a variety of upscale hospitality venues it became apparent to me that this family business is very different from the norm, of the sometimes grueling hospitality industry. The continual push to be our best, surpass previous goals, and exceed guests expectations is THE norm here. Words cannot express how fulfilling it is to know I work with a team that shares the same core values. It is easy to feel amazed when you step foot on our property, but beauty is not enough to continue to amaze our repeat guests. Our exceptional staff is what makes this destination truly one of a kind.

Favorite GV Spot: The round table right in front of the fireplace in the Bistro on a snowy winter night
Favorite GV Dish: House Made Gnocchi
Favorite GV Wine: The Abbraccio, our Cabernet is my favorite. It is full bodied red, the perfect thing to relax with after a long but enjoyable day.
Favorite Quote: “It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” -Ernest Hemingway

Lucas Blackerby

DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

I joined Gervasi full time in May of 2021 as a Piazza Support Manager. I had previously served a summer on the Piazza but was recruited back the next summer transitioning into management. I entered the role with very little experience and was challenged each day! I spent the next year working in FOH management until November of 2022 where I have transitioned in to a hiring and operations support role.

Favorite GV Spot: The Tower room in the Crush House
Favorite GV Dish: Kabob Platter on the Piazza
Favorite GV Wine: Amarone
Favorite Quote: “Life is either an incredible adventure, or its nothing at all”

Andrea Hartman

MARKETING DIRECTOR

I joined the Gervasi Vineyard team in June of 2021 as the Marketing Director. I love how creative I can be while showcasing everything Gervasi Vineyard has to offer. I am in awe everyday when I drive into the beautiful Tuscan inspired property, it reminds me that we are so lucky to have this gem in Canton, Ohio. I so enjoy that I am not only marketing Gervasi Vineyard but I am also marketing those special moments families and loved ones will cherish for a lifetime.

Favorite GV Spot: Sitting by the lake in one of the Adirondack chairs. It is such a picturesque view of the lake, willow trees, and the Villas in the background.
Favorite GV Dish: Blackened Salmon from the Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: ZinZin
Favorite Quote: “Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, be strong and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.”

Jen Wiley

CONTROLLER

I started working at Gervasi at the end of 2013 when I moved to Canton from the Steubenville area. I had never heard of Gervasi and boy, was I blown away. I began my employment as the third person in the accounting department, which has since expanded to seven current employees. Over the last ten years I have held the positions of Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Senior Accountant, Payroll and Employment Specialist, and now Controller. Everything about working here is special. The culture is amazing, and I am grateful for the opportunity to advance in my career. My staff and coworkers are fabulous and are dedicated to doing everything they can to ensure that you have the most memorable experience at Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa.

Favorite GV Spot: Entering the property after a fresh snowfall when the trees are blanketed and arching over the drive. Sitting by the lake when weather permits.
Favorite GV Dish: Grilled Greek Chicken Orzo from the Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: I’m not a fan of wine, but the Farmhouse Ale is crisp and refreshing!
Favorite Quote: “Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.” – Ted Key

Susan Monteleone

DIRECTOR OF HOTEL AND RESORT  OPERATIONS

I joined the team in February of 2010. It is my responsibility to ensure all guests visiting the Gervasi Vineyard experience all we have to offer, and for guests to walk away wanting to schedule a return visit. I love working here because even though we have separate venues and separate buildings, we work as one team. Our ability to transport our guests to a place and time that allows them to enjoy old world class and an overwhelming sense of style makes the Gervasi experience amazing.

Favorite GV Spot: Sharing food and wine at the Tavola. It’s great to begin an evening with a few old friends and to walk away with a few new ones.
Favorite GV Dish: Artisan Piatti
Favorite GV Wine: Piove
Favorite Quote: “Life isn’t measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Brooke Zarconi

SPA OPERATIONS MANAGER

I moved to Canton, Ohio from San Diego, California in September. My husband grew up in the area and we wanted our 6-year-old daughter to be closer to family. I have been in the Spa Industry for 20 years beginning as a Licensed Massage Therapist, transitioning into management, and have had the opportunity to work at some of the most prestigious resort spas in the country! I am beyond grateful that I have been entrusted to open The Spa at Gervasi Vineyard as the Operations Manager! Having the ability to help create something magical here is truly a privilege!

Favorite GV Spot: I love driving through the entrance to Gervasi. It makes you feel like there is magic ahead, and indeed there is…
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Piccata at the Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: Although I love most wines, my favorite is Abbraccio, paired with a great steak!
Favorite Quote:  “I believe that everything happens for a reason. People change so that you can learn to let go, things go wrong so that you appreciate them when they’re right, you believe lies so you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself, and sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” ― Marilyn Monroe

Noelle Miller

EVENT SALES MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in 2021 as a server at The Bistro. I just graduated from Walsh University with my MBA and transitioned to my new role. As the Event Sales Manager I’m here to help people find the perfect space to hold their event! I’ve been in the hospitality industry for 7 years and I’m excited to transition to my new role at Gervasi!

Favorite GV Spot: The Piazza while there is live music.
Favorite GV Dish: TTO’s Chipotle Potato Soup
Favorite GV Wine: Franciacorta
Favorite Quote: “If you’re doing what everyone else is doing, you’re doing it wrong.”

Whitney Tarr

EVENT SALES SPECIALIST

I joined the Gervasi team in December of 2023 as a Guest Services Specialist. With over 7 years of experience in the hospitality industry, from serving at events to managing a hotel front office, I was excited to take a step into my new role as an Event Sales Specialist in September 2024. I consider Gervasi a hidden gem. I appreciate the remarkable charm and inviting atmosphere it provides for hosting special events. I love the opportunity to showcase its unique venues to guests looking for a perfect place to celebrate. Gervasi not only offers unique venues for guests to celebrate but also creates a supportive and enriching environment for its employees. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, reading, and spending time with my family.

Favorite GV Spot: Overlooking the courtyard and lake on the covered patio at the Casa! 
Favorite GV Dish: Crispy Risotto Cakes from The Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Dolce Sera
Favorite Quote: “The grass is greener where you water it.” – Neil Barringham

Carrie Conrad

EVENT SALES SPECIALIST

I started at Gervasi Vineyard in 2022 and I help guests find a perfect space on property to host events with their friends, families and loved ones. I have been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years and just love it! People enjoy viewing the Gervasi property and starting their planning process for amazing events that will be held here so much and it’s such a joy being able to help start that process.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing in the Pavilion looking across the pond! So beautiful
Favorite GV Dish: Strawberry Salad with Grilled chicken at the Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Velluto
Favorite Quote: Expect nothing. Appreciate everything.

Stacey Kunkle

EVENT SERVICES MANAGER

I joined the team in May of 2012 and assist guests in planning and executing their dream event. I love working here because of the teamwork. The beautiful scenery, wonderful food and wine and the amazing atmosphere make Gervasi an amazing experience for guests and staff.

Favorite GV Spot: Standing in the Pavilion looking out across the Lake
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio
Favorite Quote: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only turns on the light” -Albus Dumbledore

Maggie McCort

EVENT COORDINATOR

I eagerly joined the Gervasi team in November of 2021. After a few years in the bridal industry I wanted to expand my knowledge and experience and what better place to do that than Gervasi Vineyard! Growing up in the area, Gervasi has had a reputation for good food, great wine, and beautiful weddings, that’s the exact culture I’m thrilled to be a part of!

Favorite GV Spot: the Casa Lobby
Favorite GV Dish: The Cannoli’s
Favorite GV Wine: Lascito
Favorite Quote: “Patience is virtue”

Jenny Hamsher

BISTRO ASSISTANT MANAGER & BISTRO EVENT COORDINATOR

I joined Gervasi Vineyard in August of 2021 as a hostess for the Bistro. This was my first job in customer service. I began to love it and eventually worked my way up to the Support Manager. Now I’m excited to start my new role as the assistant manager and event coordinator. What I love about Gervasi is the opportunity they give their employees to grow, and the teamwork throughout the entire property. In my free time you will see me golfing, reading, or just enjoying the outdoors!

Favorite GV Spot: Sitting on the Stillhouse patio with friends during the live music.
Favorite GV dish: Chicken Nachos at the Piazza
Favorite GV wine: Lascito
Favorite Quote: Be who you are and say what you feel, Because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.

Ashley Craig-McArthur

BISTRO EVENT COORDINATOR

I started at Gervasi in spring of 2020, after having just moved here from Canada. I’ve been working in the hospitality industry for over 10 years in so many different areas, and coming to Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, I knew there were many great opportunities for growth in any direction. I’ve been serving in the Bistro and casually working with the event team here for the past 2 years, and could not be more excited for my position as an Event Coordinator. One of my favorite things about my job is the team I get to work with. They all make being so far from home a bit easier each day. I know I’ve made connections for life here.

Favorite GV Spot: The Sin Room covered patio at the Still House, rain or shine, it’s always such a fun vibe out there.
Favorite GV Dish: The Chipotle Potato Soup from The Twisted Olive, it’s heavenly!
Favorite GV Wine: So hard to choose 1!
Red: ZinZin | Rosé: Franciacorta | White: Fioretto
Favorite Quote: “When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.”  – Paulo Coelho

Chef Ryan Bowen

CORPORATE RESORT EXECUTIVE CHEF

I joined the team in January of 2010. I am responsible for preparing all the food for weddings, corporate and other special events at Gervasi, as well as any off-site events. What I love most about working here is the people I get to work with each day, the new challenges and the opportunities they provide that allow me to continue learning. The level of teamwork and working relationship between the entire event staff is great. Everyone does whatever is needed to ensure that every wedding and special event will meet or exceed the expectations of the guests.

Favorite GV Spot: The path leading from the Pavilion to the Villa Grande on a busy night
Favorite GV Dish: Any of the soups from the Bistro menus, especially the Corn Soup in the summer
Favorite GV Wine: Primitivo and Bellina
Favorite Quote: “”When you acknowledge, as you must, that there is no such thing as perfect food, only the idea of it, then the real purpose of striving toward perfection becomes clear: to make people happy, that is what cooking is all about”

Chef Casper Mast

VILLA GRANDE EXECUTIVE PASTRY CHEF

I started at Gervasi in the summer of 2015 as a dishwasher at the Villa Grande, I worked my way up and learned everything I could from so many talented people until I became the Pastry Chef. I love the fine science behind baking and how everything comes together.

My favorite part of my job is the opportunity to work in the Villa Grande and seeing all the weddings come to life and each couples own personal touch. Champagne Ladies, Bride and Groom Alpacas, Cultural Dances, Horse drawn Carriages, The Cakes, The Gowns, The décor. You get to see into each couples fairy tale wedding and I don’t think anything could be more special.

Favorite GV Spot: My Favorite Spot in the Winter is in front of the Bistro, Especially if you can catch the fresh early snow and the big tree is encased in ice. it just looks like a winter wonderland!
In the Fall, it’s in front of the Crush House because I feel you can see the most trees and its so vibrant in color.
In the summer, it’s on little bridge near the lake by the Piazza. With all the weeping willows and the water going over the rocks on the other wide of the bridge. It’s like a painting!
Favorite GV Dish: Definitely the beef gnocchi and the hazelnut brownies! 
Favorite GV Wine: I’m a sucker for dessert wine, so it’d have to be Sognata or Moscato
Favorite Quote:  “It’s gonna be champagne wishes and caviar dreams from now on” – Donkey (Shrek)

Kristen Fuller

BISTRO & PIAZZA OPERATIONS MANAGER

I started on The Piazza as a server in June of 2020. I knew from my first day that something was unique about Gervasi. There is a warmness that comes from the staff property wide and it is special to work with people who care about each and every guest as well as each other. In May of 2021 I accepted a management position. I would have never envisioned myself in my current role, and I am grateful and excited to have landed somewhere that challenges me daily while helping me grow. My favorite part of my job is watching employees gain confidence in their roles and being there to support them on a daily basis. Gervasi is such a special place where so many come to celebrate big life events. Being able to play a part in that is so rewarding. During my free time you can find me somewhere with my two dogs, probably fishing or kayaking on the lake.

Favorite GV Spot: Warming up by The Piazza fire pit after a busy fall evening
Favorite GV Dish: Mushroom Ravioli from The Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: Bellina
Favorite Quote: “Expose yourself to your deepest fear, after that you are free” Jim Morrison

Nick Scarberry

CRUSH HOUSE OPERATIONS MANAGER

Ever since I was little, I have been fascinated with food, and feeding those around me. From working in grocery stores, to culinary school, and many restaurants in between, that passion has only grown with time.

I started working with Gervasi as an Event Bartender, and as a Bartender on The Piazza in the spring of 2022 and moved into The Bistro as bartender and then assistant manager. Most recently I have stepped into the role as Crush House Operations Manager. Being surrounded by so many people who are just as passionate about hospitality is infectious and motivating, and I am so blessed to be a part of this team! I’m looking forward to helping these teams exceed guest expectations and creating memorable experiences for guests and staff alike.

Favorite spot: The Stone Archway by The Pavilion overlooking the lake.
Favorite GV Dish: Chicken Picatta at The Bistro
Favorite GV Wine: Barile Collection – Cabernet Sauvignon Aged in Bourbon Barrels
Favorite Quote: “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” – Albus Dumbledore

Shawn Allen

STILL HOUSE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I grew up in Ohio and later moved to New Orleans where I attended Tulane University, and began my career in the service industry on Bourbon Street. I continued to do so for nearly 18 years working at multiple bars, restaurants and live entertainment venues. I recently moved back to Ohio with my wife, Ashton, and son, Cullen, and joined the Gervasi family in May of 2021.

Favorite GV Spot: The Still House
Favorite GV Dish: Smoked Pork Chop from The Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio
Favorite Quote: “ If you aren’t gonna say exactly how and what you feel, you might as well not say anything at all.” – Johnny Cash

Eric Rabin

THE CAVE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I have been in the restaurant/hospitality industry my entire life. I have performed every job title from dishwasher to regional manager at concepts like Red Robin, TGI Fridays, Applebees, Olive Garden, and locally, The Burntwood Tavern. I started with Gervasi Vineyard in October of 2019 as a Bartender in The Crush House. I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a bartender, making drinks and interacting with guests here on property. Once the position of Winery and Distillery Tour/Event Coordinator became a full-time position in June of 2021, I jumped on the opportunity and haven’t regretted taking on the role for a single second. In December of 2022, I was promoted to the role of The Cave Operations Manager. I enjoy talking to our Guests about the history of the property and the direction in which our company is moving. Every time I facilitate a wine tasting I become more excited and appreciative of being able to work here at Gervasi Vineyard. It’s the first time in my life where I feel like I have a career and not a job.

Favorite GV Spot: Driving through our illuminated property at night, especially at Holiday time
Favorite GV Dish: Our Tiramisu. It’s delicious!
Favorite GV Wine: Amarone di Valpolicella. So rich and full-bodied!
Favorite Quote: “Life is a Smorgasbord, and most poor suckers are starving to death!”- Auntie Mame

David Smith

HEAD WINEMAKER

I joined the team in December 2011 and coordinate with the winemaking team to ensure quality control throughout the winemaking process, manage the laboratory and perform all necessary analyses, maintain bottling equipment and oversee bottling operations. Gervasi promotes a positive working environment with an emphasis on quality. As part of the winemaking team I feel this facilitates my desire to craft exceptional wines. I find Gervasi to be an immersive experience. Once you drive through the iron arch beautiful scenery gives a sense of leaving your routine behind. You can focus on the moment at hand and enjoy the friends you came with.

Favorite GV Spot: The bridge over the spillway on a cool autumn morning as the mist rises from the lake.
Favorite GV Dish: I love the Bianco Pizza, the flavors are always exceptional.
Favorite GV Wine: I think if I had a favorite it would make all the other wines we produce jealous. However, I do particularly enjoy making, and drinking, Bellina. The barrels literally sing during fermentation, and I find it fascinating how the wine matures and changes during the sur lie aging.
Favorite Quote: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my soul shall be healed” ~ Response in preparation for receiving Holy Eucharist, derived from Mathew 8:8

Andrew Codispoti

WINEMAKER EMERITUS

I joined the team in February 2009 and am privileged to design our wines, oversee winery development, production and inventory as well as manage the wine portfolio strategy. I find satisfaction integrating the romance of wine with the principles of organization, process control, writing and teaching. The irresistible opportunity to exercise passion and creativity in a rewarding environment in addition to interaction with our guests and the community makes my job the best in town. The overall attention to excellence and the regard for those who create and those who come to appreciate the Gervasi Experience makes a compelling environment.

Favorite GV Spot: Spending warm summer evenings on the Piazza sharing food and wine with family and friends completes my enjoyment of our fabulous operation.
Favorite GV Dish: While I love all of our food, I can’t resist the pizzas.
Favorite GV Wine: The one I am drinking at the moment.
Favorite Quote: “Lucidare le scarpe” – Remember to shine the shoes” ~ Vincenzo Salvatore Codispoti

Shae Pridemore

HEAD DISTILLER

I started at Gervasi in February of 2020 and run the day to day operations at the distillery. From lab analysis, product development, constant quality control and a drive to be on the cutting edge with new techniques to keep Gervasi standards above the rest. I have a long heritage of winemakers, brewers and distillers that run in my family and it’s this heritage that I am excited to bring to Gervasi.

Favorite GV Spot: In the early morning as the sun is rising and the deer are grazing amongst the vines.
Favorite GV Dish: The famous Cannoli we have at The Still House
Favorite GV Wine: Passione
Favorite GV Spirit: Rum Barrel Bourbon
Favorite Quote: “I would rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.” George Washington

Sandy Fraedrich

MARKETPLACE OPERATIONS MANAGER

I joined the Gervasi team in May of 2019. Having been in Retail for over 20 years, The Marketplace is everything I dreamed of being a part of – a retail experience like no other. Whether it is discussing our Wines, Spirits or any of the unique boutique lines we carry, being part of our Guests experience is by far the most rewarding. I feel blessed  that I get to work with such an amazing team and equally amazing guests every day.

Favorite GV Spot: Enjoying date night with my husband, with a glass of Fioretto in hand at a table just outside The Marketplace on a Saturday evening in the Summer listening to the music, laughter and love coming from the wedding reception in the Pavilion.
Favorite GV Dish: Short Rib Sliders at The Crush House
Favorite GV Wine: Abbraccio is my love but Fioretto is my summer go to.
Favorite Quote: “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters.” – Audrey Hepburn 

Christi Blackerby

MARKETPLACE RETAIL BUYER

Experienced Retail Buyer, I enjoy the process of reviewing our current product lines to ensure the shop’s market competitiveness. Our marketplace team cares deeply about carrying unique new boutique lines. In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my family and the sunshine!

Favorite GV Spot: Quiet mornings the Marketplace when we have finished a new seasonal floor set that we are ready to release to the public, simply magical!!
Favorite GV Dish: The Piazza Grilled Chicken and Chorizo Bowl; Manchego Chorizo Cheese Sauce, Street Corn, Pico, Fresh Lime
Favorite GV Wine: Velluto, our Pinot Noir, and I love the Goombay Girl Cocktail on the Piazza!
Favorite Quote: “Eyes bright, chins up, smiles on.” -Effie Trinket