We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Chavonne White a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Chavonne thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
In 2021, during the height of the pandemic, I was inspired to explore a new chapter in my life by venturing into the wine tasting business. For nearly 20 years, I’ve worked as a licensed cosmetologist, but I felt it was time to make a meaningful change in my career. That decision led me back to school, where I began studying psychology—a passion I’ve pursued wholeheartedly. I earned my associate degree last May and am now on track to complete my bachelor’s program.
I named my business Mahogany + Merlot because mahogany represents strength and resilience, qualities that define my journey, while merlot symbolizes richness, connection, and transformation—a nod to the depth I hope to bring to others through this endeavor.
What started as a wine-tasting business has evolved into something much more profound. Today, Mahogany + Merlot is a platform that curates events designed to spark meaningful conversations—particularly around the challenging topics that often go unspoken. My goal is to create a space that not only shares my love for wine but also fosters connection, growth, and positive change within the community.
The road to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. Some who were with me at the start of this journey are no longer part of this season, but through it all, I’ve grown stronger—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am more educated, resilient, and eager for the opportunities that lie ahead.
At the heart of my work is the desire to inspire others. I want people to feel renewed when they encounter me—filled with joy, empowerment, and a contagious sense of purpose. Mahogany + Merlot is more than a business; it’s a reflection of my story, my passion, and my commitment to creating spaces where connection and transformation thrive.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I was once called a nectarine because I’m not originally from Georgia—but I moved here from Washington, D.C., at the age of seven. Since then, life has been a vibrant mix of passions and pursuits.
As I mentioned before, I have been in the beauty industry for almost 20 years. I’ve explored the art of transformation through beauty, community, and connection. Along the way, I’ve become a wine enthusiast, a self-published author, an event curator, and now, I’m on the exciting path to becoming a licensed therapist. In this journey, I currently serve as a Professional Development Coach, helping individuals discover their true essence—a role inspired by my own journey of self-discovery.
Operating in alignment with my essence has made life infinitely richer, and I’m passionate about sharing that joy. I thrive on wine, culture, and community, and my life’s mission reflects those loves. What sets me apart is my relatability, authenticity, and transparency when tackling real-life challenges and meaningful conversations.
I believe in embracing life unapologetically, learning from mistakes, and showing up as the person you desire to be every day. Even in tough times, I focus on the lessons rather than the circumstances, which keeps me grounded and growing.
I’m proud of how my journey continues to unfold—the impact I’m making, the relationships I’m building, and the positive growth I’m fostering along the way. Life is sweeter when lived in your essence, and I’m here to show others how to do the same.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
My life has been one big pivot, but two years ago, I made the boldest move yet—and it changed everything. I decided to turn my passion for wine into a business, not just for myself but to show my community how fun and accessible wine tasting can be. What I didn’t expect was how this journey would lead me to “my people” and, more importantly, back to myself.
At the time, I was in an unhealthy relationship that drained my energy, and I dimmed my light. Choosing myself wasn’t just a decision; it was survival. If I hadn’t walked away, I wouldn’t be here sharing this story with you. When you forget who you are, you start living for others and let me tell you—it’s exhausting and downright depressing. Leaving that relationship wasn’t just a pivot; it was a power move!
That decision ignited something fierce in me. Mahogany + Merlot went from a simple idea to a thriving reality. “Mahogany” represents the strength, resilience, and warmth I’ve come to embody, and once I stepped into my essence, the universe started showing off for me. I landed a scholarship for my first wine certification (and aced it), joined a national wine society for BIPOC professionals, and began hosting unforgettable events that prove good wine isn’t just for the elite—it’s for all of us.
Now, I’m merging my two loves—wine and psychology—to create spaces where tough conversations flow as easily as the wine. Because here’s the thing: when you let go of what doesn’t serve you, you make room for everything that does. I’m living proof that when you embrace your authenticity and own your path, life becomes a whole lot more fun, flavorful, and fulfilling.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve had to unlearn is taking things personally. Imagine the audacity of me thinking someone else’s actions were all about me! The truth is, everyone is on their own journey, battling things we’ll never see or know. Not everyone has the tools to handle their emotions while navigating life’s messiness—and that’s not my baggage to carry.
Learning not to internalize people’s behaviors has been a total game-changer. It’s freed me to focus on what truly matters: showing up as my best self and letting others deal with their own chaos.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/mahoganyandmerlot
- Instagram: @_mahoganyandmerlot
- Facebook: mahogany8merlot
Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/antjohnsphotos?igsh=bHRoNmtzZ2VlYnpn