In recent years, a small community called Walden has taken shape just off the beaten path among the rural roads of Silver Spring Township.
The charming, “New Urban” neighborhood was specially designed by Charter Homes for the convenience of residents, with parks and shops offering everything from apparel to salon services to pet grooming to dining, all within walking distance.
Lauren Ishaq and Michael Harty live in a nearby neighborhood and would often visit the development to dine at the popular eatery, Sophia’s at Walden. When Ishaq learned that an 848-square-foot space was available within a stone’s throw of the restaurant, she set the wheels in motion to fulfill a dream.
Harty smiles as he bustles about, hauling in supplies from Scotzin Brothers and listening to Ishaq tell the simple story that launched the business.
“I fell in love with this space, and Michael was a home brewer and I said, ‘Hey, by the way, we have a meeting with Charter Homes in two weeks.’”
It’s not as if the couple didn’t have enough on their plates already.
In addition to parenting three children (Leah, 9, Jackie, 7, and Jordan, 3), Ishaq was attending school full-time, and Harty (still) works full time as an operations supervisor at Three Mile Island.
Something had to give, so, for Ishaq, it was school, a decision she has yet to regret. The businesswoman said she loves every minute of what she’s doing now, which is tending to front-of-the-house duties, while Harty brings his passion to the back of the house.
“For me, brewing doesn’t feel like work,” he said. “It’s far away from my serious and technical day job.”
It took the couple about a year and a half to go from concept to reality, and they opened their doors to the public in February.
“When you lease a space with Charter Homes, they have to approve your style, so it fits in with the community,” said Ishaq. “I found ideas on Pinterest, took pictures and presented the design team with my ideas.”
The interior fits into the “industrial chic” category, with varnished, reclaimed wood, rustic pendant lighting and a brick back wall that is reminiscent of an old “ghost sign,” emblazoned with the Harty logo done in white paint.
During the planning stages, Ishaq reached out to others in the brewing business like Brandalynn Armstrong, who runs Zeroday Brewing Co. in Harrisburg.
“Getting into the male-dominated industry is overwhelming, so it was easier for her to talk to a female with real-life experience,” said Armstrong. “They make a really good product and are set up to meet both their expectations and those of the community. So, it makes sense that they will be very successful.”
The taproom seats about 30, with bars overlooking floor-to-ceiling windows. The main bar faces away from the street, and that’s where Ishaq dispenses beer, wine and cider to her customers. A chalkboard lists the day’s offerings. During my visit, the roster included an American Pale Ale, an India Pale Ale, an Oatmeal Stout, a New Zealand IPA, Big Hill cider and a variety of wines from the Allegro Winery in York County.
As for food, Ishaq offers just hot dogs and chips, preferring to concentrate on the libations. For customers who prefer something a little more substantial, she has that covered.
“We’re partnering with Sophia’s at Walden,” she said. “The customer places their order, we call it in, and their staff walks it over.”
Owner Sophia Nelms said the arrangement is working out well.
“We’re a BYOB, and they’re getting ready to can their beer, so the customer can bring it here too, which will be nice,” she said. “We want them to be successful, so, between their great beer and our great food, we mix together nicely.”
Harty’s friend Chris Harvey, who also homebrews, said that Harty’s chemical engineering background has served him well in turning out a quality product.
“That really sets the bar on how great a brewer he is. They’ve created a unique, special place, which works well in the community,” said Harvey, adding that the atmosphere promotes socialization, meeting people and making new friends.
The couple said that business has been brisk and outside seating will soon be available. For now, hours are limited to Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, 6 to 11 p.m., and Saturday, 1 to 11 p.m., a schedule that enables them to strike the right balance between work and family.
“People have been so receptive,” said Ishaq. “I really do feel blessed.”
Harty Brewing Co. is located at 146 Walden Way, Mechanicsburg. For more information, visit www.hartybrewco.com or their Facebook page.
