Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Hall

Hi Kimberly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

The idea for Sip+Tipple started with an Instagram post. A local influencer featured a cocktail using a Black-owned vodka brand founded in the DMV area. This piqued my interest, especially since I’ve always enjoyed visiting local distilleries and supporting regional spirit brands. The fact that I wasn’t aware of this brand despite my efforts to support local businesses was disappointing, but it also inspired me to want to know more.
I started researching, ordering, and tasting more Black-owned spirits. I quickly realized that many of the Black-owned brands were not available locally, and the sheer number of options was overwhelming. I was unsure which products I would enjoy, and which would end up gathering dust on my bar.
That journey pointed out some glaring holes in the market. First, there was no central place to find and purchase Black-owned spirits. Second, if I found a spirit online or in a brick-and-mortar store, how would I know if I would like it. If I like vodka, does that mean I like all vodkas? What’s the difference in the flavor profile of a corn vodka versus a potato vodka?
I launched Sip+Tipple to tackle both challenges. Our goal is to help people understand what they like and why, making it easy and convenient to discover and purchase Black-owned brands. We provide a uniquely curated list for each member, ensuring that their shopping experience is tailored to their tastes. Our services include personalized spirit recommendations, curated cocktail recipes, and invitations to exclusive events designed just for them.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

No entrepreneurial journey is smooth sailing, and mine has been no exception. Building a business involves many moving parts, and bumps along the way are guaranteed. Each bump has been a learning lesson (though it stings a little more when there’s a cost attached to the lesson.) But, if you’re not learning along the way, then you’re not pushing hard enough.

Our biggest challenge has been our website. The foundation of our member experience is the Tipple Flavor Profile (TFP), which guides personal shopping recommendations and helps us curate member experiences. Finding the right partner to build out the website and integrate this information into the shopping experience has been extremely challenging.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?

Sip+Tipple is all about providing a tailored experience for our members. We specialize in curating and recommending Black-owned spirits based on individual Tipple Flavor Profiles. Our members receive personalized spirit recommendations, curated cocktail recipes, and invitations to exclusive events.

What sets us apart is our commitment to making the shopping experience uniquely personal. We believe that every customer’s shopping experience should be created with them in mind. We do the work so our customers don’t have to. The end result? Black-owned spirit recommendations that match their flavor profile.

We are most proud of our community. Our members are passionate about exploring new flavors and supporting Black-owned brands. We’re also proud of our commitment to diversity, not just in the products we offer but also in the partners we work with. Every Sip+Tipple purchase supports multiple Black-owned brands.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?

Tap into your existing networks and expand from there. It really is a small world, and you never know who the people you already know may be connected to. I didn’t come from the spirits space, but once I ventured down this path, I discovered that several people in my network had connections in the industry.

One of the most important things I learned is that people in your network are often excited to help you and will go out of their way to make connections for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and seek advice. The more you engage with your network, the more opportunities you’ll uncover. Networking is a powerful tool, and it’s crucial for any entrepreneur to leverage it effectively. Be proactive and genuine in your efforts.

Pricing:

• Explorer Membership – $9 a Month
• Tastemaker Membership – $59 a Month
• Connoisseur Membership – $79 a Month

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.SipandTipple.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sipandtippleclub/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SipandTipple/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sipandtipple

Image Credits

Headshot with spirits – Cara-Lynn Birts Photography
Guidance whiskey on shelf – Devin B. Visuals