Secrets to success from Smalltown USA

Weingarten Vineyard started as a five-acre vineyard in 2004. Today, it spans 22 acres and includes a full-service event company.

Not bad for two folks who just planned to retire to the beautiful countryside.

"We were sucked into it," said Randy Hamann, who owns the vineyard with his wife. "We really loved the whole vineyard [concept]. ... It does get in your blood."

Hamann, 59, and his wife have poured all their money into Weingarten Vineyard. In 2010, they held the first event in their 30,000-square-foot facility, which holds 350 people. Their event business - which includes catering and a restaurant within the winery -- makes up 70% of their business.

While their business is profitable, Randy says they can't really afford to hire more people right now. So with two full-time employees (a chef and a winemaker), Randy ends up putting in 80 to 100 hour weeks.

"With the dream comes a lot of hard work," said Randy. "Most people told us we'd never make it. ... [But] giving up is not an option for us. It takes a long time to build a reputation."