Bootstrap coding advice for fixed width column element

Calling bootstrap experts. I am currently developing a site with bootstrap. The site uses a column config with the left-most column (1 out of 12) for navigation. Here is the issue: I understand the whole point of the fluidity of bootstrap, but for this left column, I'd like to have a minimum width or fixed width/static width so that my text can always fit with a decent size of font. Currently, on a 1600 pixel wide screen the column element is about 120 pixels which is a little tight. Perhaps if you've worked on sites that have had an issue or an element like this you can point me to the example site. I can then see if that is the solution I'm looking for before I decide on the 'winner.'