Episode Summary:

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson interviews Mary Anna Ossa, Founder of Partners & Grapes Organic Wines. Mary Anna shares her inspiring journey from a stay-at-home mom to a successful entrepreneur in the wine industry. The discussion explores how she developed her brand of organic, vegan, and sugar-free wines, the challenges she faced as a woman of color in a male-dominated industry, and her strategies for scaling her business across multiple states.

Key Topics Discussed:

1:00 Min - Transitioning from a career in real estate and mortgages to founding Partners in Grapes after discovering organic wines in Spain.

3:00 Min - The creation of Partners & Grapes’ wine portfolio, including the sourcing of ingredients from a woman-owned vineyard in Catalonia.

7:00 Min - Strategies for expanding her business from local sales to statewide distribution in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia.

11:00 Min - Navigating complex regulations, overcoming industry biases, and learning to grow at a sustainable pace.

Conclusion:

Mary Anna Ossa's journey is a testament to the power of determination and passion in building a successful brand. Her story provides valuable insights for anyone looking to break into the beverage industry, particularly in the organic and sustainable wine sector. As she continues to grow Partners & Grapes, her commitment to quality and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront, inspiring others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.