Meet Erin O’Connell | Owner – Rhapsody

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin O’Connell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Oh boy, the list is long. I am truly inspired by creativity, by music, by love, by energy, by the sharing of people’s gifts, by my wife and family, by kindness, by assertiveness, by people who stand up for those who are less fortunate or marginalized, by laughter, by books, by traveling, by giving.

The flow of ideas and creative energy are why I opened Rhapsody. I wanted to give people a place to share, sing, celebrate, discuss, laugh and grow. I want Rhapsody to be a place of kindness and openness, where people can be truly themselves and we can all work to make this world more exceptional.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I have never traveled on a conventional path. I have done a little bit of a lot of things, which is the way I like it. Maybe it’s my desire to see it all; maybe it’s because I have a hard time focusing on any one thing, but either way, I like to try new things and experiences. I have worked in retail, done corporate sales for a bookstore chain, worked in product development and international importing, taught public speaking to elementary and middle schoolers, owned a professional organizing business, refinished furniture, held a real estate license, and now I own a bar. Sometimes, I felt like I was doing it wrong; like I was supposed to be on a certain path and that every time I changed directions, I was sending myself backwards. I would hear a voice in my head that the world was disappointed in me and that I wasn’t doing what I was ‘supposed’ to do. However, there was a louder voice. One that told me that I was free to grow, to learn and to change. A voice that told me I could face challenges, I could do hard things, and that starting something new wasn’t starting over. It was difficult….and still is. Uncertainty is tough and owning a bar is a continuous list of uncertain situations. Between living in a rural and tourist-driven community, opening during the height of Covid, having a long winter, dealing with supply chain issues and facing competition in the industry, unlocking the doors each day is never definite.

Flexibility and creativity are key. We are constantly working to find new ways to enhance the business, whether it is hosting a new type of event, creating a new drink or marketing in a different way. I use my inspirations to infuse creative solutions into Rhapsody. We are a music-themed bar and I am inspired by incredible musicians who walk through my door every day. We have become a venue for a variety of musical acts, from solo acoustic guitarists to 5 piece jazz bands to a folk trio from Nashville. They all have their own experience and vision which helps to teach me the different ways the music industry flourishes. I am also inspired by other local business owners, who I struggle and succeed with on a daily basis. We teach each other, commiserate, help each other and learn together. We also host a steady list of other events, such as wine and chocolate tasting, karaoke, yoga, non-profit organization fundraisers, private parties, comedy shows, pop-up gift shops, and art walks, We have the Red Diamond Gastro Truck serving food from our patio and have had other food trucks rotate in for specials events.

As I write this, I realize that my greatest inspiration comes from collaboration. I had a vision for Rhapsody, but I have not walked one second of this journey alone. My mom, Cathie, is part owner and infuses ideas and support to me constantly. My wife and kids not only put up with my symphony of moods, but they help me in any way they can. I like to think that my incredible employees have a sense of ownership in Rhapsody. We always come up with ideas together and implement them as a team. And my customers will not give it a second thought to help me out when I’m in a tough spot. And those musicians I mentioned…between them and my wife, I have finally found the courage to play music and sing at my own bar. I absolutely couldn’t be more grateful for the community we have created.

Overall, I have a true desire to improve the lives of others….with music, laughter, and a damn good cocktail.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love showing guests some of my favorite local places. I would definitely grab drinks at a couple of bars at Ivywild School and then head to the Millibo Art Theatre for a show. The Paint Mines Interpretive Park is a cool and unique spot that I don’t see featured a lot. For food, drinks and ambiance, I would head to the Rabbit Hole, Shugas or Icons. An overnight adventure to Salida would be a must, for food, outdoor recreation and funky stores. In Denver, I would check out Meow Wolf Convergence Station. Of course, I would head ‘up the pass’ to Woodland Park, because that’s the lovely mountain town that Rhapsody calls home.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my wife Laura, my constant muse and my ongoing inspiration. I also want to shoutout to anyone who has ever picked me up when I have been down. Lifting each other up is the only way we can all rise.

Website: Rhapsodybar.com

Instagram: therhapsodybar

Facebook: @therhapsodybar

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rhapsody-woodland-park-2

Image Credits
Laura O’Connell Kelly Gerszewski