This morning, local beer accessories company KegWorks opened the doors to a retail store at 1460 Military Rd., Buffalo, in a 3,700-square-foot building in front of its headquarters.

Specializing in “tools for drinking,” KegWorks has thrived through e-commerce since 1998 and has blossomed as an international brand. This is the business’ first foray into local retail, however, a decision that’s been in considering for several years and in serious planning for one.

“We were joking that we’ve done this [process] backwards,” KegWorks brand ambassador Liz Chatterton said in a phone call Wednesday. “Usually, businesses start with a brick-and-mortar location before expanding to e-commerce.”

The forward-thinking drinking accessories retailer has started to make waves locally, particularly in recent months.

CEO Tom McManus’ discussed the “hidden growth sector” at TEDx Buffalo, the business’ hilarious blog (often a “vlog” for the overly-technical) oozes personality and the clever time-lapse video production of the KegWorks bottle cap wall circulated rapidly through social media.

KegWorks is placing special emphasis on its manufacturing capabilities, as the company now offers custom bar creation tailored for individual consumers from its retail site. In terms of KegWorks’ niche, Chatterton explained that the growing company offers products suitable for throwing your own house party, preparing for a major drinking-based holiday—we’re looking at you, St. Patrick’s Day—or tapping a keg at a Buffalo Bills tailgate.

“This is not a pop-up shop,” Chatterton added. “We worked with the same retail designer that completed the Nike Store and Columbia Sportswear— Vizwerks.”

Presently, KegWorks has no intention of acquiring a liquor license in order to sell beer, but the brand ambassador explained the new retail space—which boasts a decked-out bar as you walk in—should allow KegWorks to host educational events or tastings.

The retail store will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday as well as 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Browse through KegWorks’ St. Patrick’s Day product line, replete with ample Guinness-themed accessories.