Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Latoya Thompson, Pt, Dpt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dr. LaToya , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.
The Foundation of My Journey: Lessons from My Parents
My journey in both medicine and wine is deeply rooted in the values instilled in me by my parents. As entrepreneurs who fearlessly pursued their dreams while raising a family, they set a powerful example of what it means to work hard, dream big, and never let challenges deter you from your purpose.
From a young age, I watched them balance the demands of entrepreneurship with unwavering dedication to our family. Their resilience in building something from the ground up taught me the importance of grit—the ability to push forward even when the path isn’t easy. They showed me that hard work, paired with passion, can overcome any obstacle.
At the same time, they taught me humility: the importance of serving others, staying grounded, and appreciating every step of the journey. Whether in my career in medicine or my passion for creating Opulence Wines, these lessons have been my compass.
My parents’ ability to dream boldly while remaining steadfast in their responsibilities inspired me to pursue my passions without fear. Their influence is evident in everything I do—from providing care and healing in the medical field to crafting wine experiences that celebrate inclusion and community. Their legacy of determination and grace fuels my desire to leave my own mark on the world.
I owe so much of my success to their example and their belief in me. They taught me that while the road may be difficult, perseverance, humility, and faith will always lead to something greater than you could ever imagine.
Dr. LaToya , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Opulence Wines was born out of my vision to create a space where exceptional wine, education, and the arts harmoniously converge. I believe wine should be more than a drink—it should be an experience. It’s an opportunity to celebrate individuality while indulging in life’s finer pleasures.
Wine has a unique ability to transport you through your senses—from the sunlit valleys of Napa to the storied soils of Bordeaux, France. For me, as a working mom, wife, and entrepreneur, life can get chaotic. That’s why elevated self-care is essential—enjoying a luxurious glass of Cabernet, paired with inspiring art and soul-nourishing music, becomes more than a moment; it’s a lifestyle.
Opulence Wines is the definition of luxury, offering elevated experiences for both novice and seasoned wine lovers. Our wines are crafted from the finest California grapes, reflecting innovation and modernity while maintaining an unwavering focus on quality and sophistication.
We take pride in our commitment to inclusivity, cultivating the palates of all, and championing women and minorities in the wine industry. This journey has been one of passion, resilience, and purpose, and I am incredibly proud of the brand I’ve built and how far we’ve come. Opulence Wines isn’t just about creating exceptional wine—it’s about elevating the experience and building a legacy of luxury and inclusion for the next generation.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Resilient in Every Pour
The journey of thriving as a small business in the wine industry is one of passion, perseverance, and adaptability. From the beginning, we knew the path wouldn’t be easy. But for us, resilience meant embracing every challenge as an opportunity to showcase our worth—not just to consumers but also to the gatekeepers of the industry: restaurant buyers and retail decision-makers.
Keeping our brand visible required relentless effort. It was important that each event that we attended that we shared our story, our mission, and our dedication into every glass. We shared not only the flavors of our Lodi Pinot Grigio and Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon but also the values behind our brand—quality, inclusivity, and the elevation of underrepresented voices in the wine industry.
When competition grew fierce, we leaned on what made us unique. We curated unforgettable wine experiences, blending the art of tasting with storytelling, music, and cultural celebration. These experiences weren’t just about selling wine; they were about creating moments that buyers and consumers alike would carry with them long after the last sip.
Through every obstacle, we remained unwavering in our commitment to quality. Whether it was navigating supply chain challenges or facing market uncertainty, we prioritized delivering products that spoke for themselves. This consistency built trust, not only with our loyal customers but also with the buyers who could see that we belonged at their tables and on their shelves.
Today, our story is one of resilience. It’s proof that small businesses can thrive in an industry dominated by giants—by staying visible, consistent, and true to their vision. Through every challenge, we’ve shown that we don’t just belong; we thrive. And with every glass poured, we celebrate the journey that brought us here.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.opulencewine.com
- Instagram: @opulencewine, @LMT1908
Image Credits
Rebecca Simonov