Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathleen Smith.

Hi Kathleen, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am in love with wine and its world, its colors, perfumes and charm. Through travel, connecting with people and most certainly tasting their creations, you discover the passion, the journey and story that each and every bottle tells.

Growing up in Montreal, Canada, a city with a European flair, and one where cuisine and wine are deeply rooted. This is where my love for wine and gastronomy developed. After 15 years as a project management consultant, I decided to pursue my passion for wine & move to the next phase, a WSET wine education. As a DipWSET certified professional, I wear many hats in the wine industry – a brand strategist, influencer, published journalist throughout Europe & USA, an accomplished international wine judge for a number of globally recognized competitions as well as an established wine blogger @thehappyvineks

In addition I am a very proud ambassador for a number of women owned wine businesses, such as Iola Wines, Dutcher Crossing and the women only in wine competition Concours Mondiale des Vins Féminalise.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey isn’t always easy. Balancing the demands of a career, family, and personal growth while pursuing the WSET Diploma, a three-year degree (equivalent to a Master’s) was a significant challenge. The WSET Diploma required a substantial investment of time, energy, finances, and commitment. As women, we often wear many hats, and this experience truly tested my ability to balance them all.

However, my success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering love, support, and encouragement of my family and friends.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Wine isn’t just a beverage for me; it’s a portal to a story. Through connecting with the regions, the winemakers and tasting their creations, I discover the passion, the journey, and the unique narrative embedded in each bottle.

I’m known for my captivating storytelling style, built on honesty, a creative personal touch, and an unwavering passion for wine. I’m a planner and organizer at heart, but I took a leap of faith by leaving a lucrative project management career to pursue this dream. Money isn’t the motivator; it’s the immense satisfaction of helping others share their stories.

Growing up in a multicultural city fostered a deep understanding of diverse cultures, which enriches my storytelling. My creativity lies in collaborating with winemakers to tell their stories through my eyes and words. I envision the perfect photos, the most evocative quotes, and the ideal music to create a unique stylistic experience that captures the essence of their craft.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
The stories and triumphs of women in food and wine have fueled my passion to pursue my dreams. Consider Julia Child, who defied expectations by becoming a professional chef at a time when it was a male-dominated field. Or the long history of revolutionary leading ladies of Champagne, such as Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin-Clicquot (a.k.a. Veuve Clicquot), Jeanne Krug or Camille Olry-Roederer, who overcame societal limitations, wars or economic crises by running their own Champagne houses. Ultimately, my success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering love, support, and encouragement of my family and friends.

Pricing:

• Depends on the contract

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thehappyvine.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehappyvineks/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehappyvine/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-e-smith

Image Credits
All photos were taken by me.