Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Brewer
Hi Nick, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always believed in the power of a great game night—the laughter, the friendly competition, and the way it brings people together. As a longtime board game collector (to the point where my wife joked I “might have a problem”), I had a passion for discovering and sharing table top games with others. Games provide a unique opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of everyday life, social media, etc—offering a chance to truly be present with the people around you. With a background in business and bar ownership, the idea of creating a space where people could engage in this just made sense.
Having always loved downtown Canton, we saw a need for something unique. While there were already fantastic bars and restaurants in the area, we felt downtown could benefit from a place that combines the social aspect of gaming with food and drinks in a relaxed, yet lively environment.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a rewarding journey, but it definitely hasn’t been without its challenges. The timing of our launch was far from ideal—we signed the lease and secured startup funding just a couple of weeks before COVID hit. The uncertainty brought on by the pandemic meant we had to pivot quickly and make tough decisions, all while waiting to see how things would unfold.
One of the biggest hurdles was finding the right balance between staying true to our vision and being flexible enough to adjust to new restrictions and safety protocols. However, we were fortunate to have a supportive landlord who allowed us to complete our buildout rent-free and gave us the flexibility to open when we were ready, which took a lot of pressure off. This extra time allowed us to fine-tune the space and our offerings, something we might not have had the chance to do otherwise.
Additionally, managing the balance between running a bar, restaurant, and the gaming experience required some learning on the fly, especially when it came to staffing and operations. We’ve had to adapt, refine, and reassess along the way, but each challenge brought valuable lessons that have helped us grow and improve.
Despite the obstacles, the community’s support and the opportunity to create something unique in downtown Canton have kept us moving forward. It’s been a rollercoaster at times, but we’re proud of where we are today and excited for what’s to come.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My background is a bit of a mix. I started out in IT, working as an infrastructure engineer, where I learned a lot about building and maintaining systems that keep things running smoothly. That experience has been really helpful in managing the technical side of the business at Milestone, from keeping things organized behind the scenes to creating operational solutions.
I also have a passion for music and have worked as a front-of-house sound engineer for live events. Over the years, I’ve played in a few bands as well, which has helped me understand the importance of creating the right atmosphere and connecting with an audience. I think my ability to balance the technical side of things with a creative touch has shaped how we approach everything Milestone.
What I’m most proud of is seeing how everything has come together at Milestone. It’s a place that blends my interests in a way that feels welcoming and unique. What sets me apart? I’m not sure I’m anything special, but I’ve been fortunate that my experiences have aligned in a way that’s been helpful to Milestone. I try to bring everything I’ve learned together to create something enjoyable for the community.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
There have been a lot of lessons along the way, but a few stand out. First, I’ve learned that being too risk-averse can hold you back. There’s a certain amount of calculated risk that’s necessary to grow, and embracing that has pushed us forward.
I’ve also realized that my ideas aren’t always the best ones, and that’s okay. It’s important to listen to others, whether it’s team members or customers, because their perspectives often lead to better solutions.
One of the most crucial lessons has been learning how to delegate effectively. Trying to do everything myself was a mistake early on, but stepping back and empowering / trusting my team to take on responsibilities has allowed me to focus on what really matters.
Personal growth has been key as well. I’ve learned that if I focus on improving myself, that growth naturally extends to the management team and staff. When they grow, the entire business benefits, and that has had a big impact on the culture we’re building.
Finally, I’ve learned that providing a top-notch customer experience is the heart of any business. When you prioritize making people feel welcome and valued, everything else falls into place, and it’s the best way to ensure long-term success.
Pricing:
- $5 per person to play games all day
- $10/$15 monthly memberships – never pay table fees plus other perks / discounts
- private room / area rentals – $60 – $350 (for groups up to 50)
- food and snacks range from $2-$10
- alcoholic beverage prices range from $4-$10 ($12 draft flights as well)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://milestone.games
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milestone.games/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milestonegames
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MilestoneGamesOhio
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/milestone-canton
