Meet Our Members – Kombucharista (NY)

A: I remember it so clearly! I was in about eighth grade and I saw a Kevita bottle in the cooler section while shopping with my mom and thought “Oh, this is new and interesting.” It took a bit to convince my mom to purchase it, since the cost of kombucha can begin to add up, but I absolutely loved the taste of the Lemon Cayenne kombucha that Kevita offered and solely drank that for years. Once I got my first job, I admittedly spent a large percentage of my paycheck on kombucha.

A: I truthfully did not intend on owning a business. I witnessed my dad owning businesses growing up and saw what a challenge it could be at times, along with how much grit someone needs to have to follow through. Once I graduated from Rochester Institute of Technology with my B.S. in Economics, however, I was able to better analyze the market. I quickly realized there were flavors that were missing from the marketplace, those being cocktail flavored kombucha. I began experimenting with a mule flavor and realized I had found my niche. That is how Kombucharista was born; I wanted to make a mocktail that didn’t have added simple syrups or soda for consumers that don’t drink but wanted a product that could also be mixed with liquor to create a healthier, classic cocktail. Everyone wins!

A: I have been a server or bartender since I was 18, and I still am. I have met amazing customers who want to support my business so I am still part time in the service industry (for now).

A: I have had a quote written down that I keep by my desk since my last semester of college. It says, “Whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right.” It’s a quote by Henry Ford that reminds me to go with my gut. It’s gotten me this far so I think it’s been a good reminder!