Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chrishon Lampley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Chrishon, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

The key to achieving success lies in persistence and the capacity to overcome rejections. My perspective on this has been shaped by my own experiences. I’ve encountered numerous instances where I faced rejection from individuals who didn’t share the same belief in Love Cork Screw. When you invest immense effort into your endeavors and hold unwavering faith in your mission, it can be disheartening to encounter skepticism. However, what I’ve discovered is that behind each rejection often lies a superior opportunity that aligns better with the brand’s direction.

Having spent a decade in the industry, I’ve learned to swiftly rebound from setbacks and proceed as though the rejected opportunity never existed. Every rejection serves as a valuable lesson, offering insights into areas that need improvement and highlighting ways to enhance performance. This approach has enabled me to evolve and elevate my strategies continually.

Chrishon, 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?

Allow me to introduce myself and my journey to those who may not be familiar with my story. I am the founder of Love Cork Screw, a wine brand renowned for its distinctive and visually captivating labels. My venture into this industry was driven by a powerful vision – a vision rooted in rectifying the lack of diversity that prevailed within the world of wine. Beyond that, I was deeply committed to making wine more accessible and approachable, catering to both newcomers and connoisseurs, with the aim of demystifying the often-intimidating world of wine.

What sets Love Cork Screw apart is its unique position as one of the pioneering African-American women-led wine brands to have achieved nationwide recognition, stemming from the heart of the Midwest. This milestone holds great significance as it marks a breaking of barriers and a significant step towards inclusivity in an industry that historically lacked such representation.

Among my proudest moments, one shines brightly – the opportunity to deliver a TED Talk. This platform not only enabled me to share my personal narrative but also served as a wellspring of inspiration for individuals seeking the courage to persist in pursuing their dreams despite adversities. My philosophy is unwavering: I am a relentless pursuer who refuses to halt and never surrenders. This drive is profoundly rooted in my genuine affinity for people, which was a driving force that led me to the enchanting realm of wine.

Love Cork Screw boasts a diverse array of six varietals, available in prominent retail outlets such as Walmart, Target, Total Wine & More, and Meijer stores, among others. This widespread accessibility speaks volumes about the brand’s resonance and the demand it has garnered.

In essence, my journey is one of determination, diversity, and a fervent love for both people and wine. I aspire for potential clients, followers, and fans to grasp the spirit of inclusivity and passion that fuels Love Cork Screw. My story is a testament to the potential of perseverance, and my brand’s products encapsulate the vision of making wine an inviting and enjoyable experience for all.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Certainly, let me recount a pivotal moment that transpired during a period of upheaval, whether it’s related to business, career, or life. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic presented a formidable challenge for Love Cork Screw, ushering in a time of profound uncertainty. The closure of numerous retailers due to the lockdowns significantly impacted our sales trajectory. In the face of this adversity, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of the path ahead.

It was during this tumultuous period that I initiated a strategic pivot. Recognizing the need to adapt to the changing circumstances, I transitioned towards conducting virtual tastings. This decision marked a significant departure from my accustomed approach of engaging with customers in person. Instead, I tapped into the potential of technology and began offering virtual experiences that allowed me to connect with enthusiasts directly through platforms like Zoom.

The transformation was met with enthusiastic response. Clients appreciated the convenience of having Love Cork Screw wines delivered straight to their doorstep, coupled with an engaging and relaxed presentation through virtual channels. What was particularly noteworthy is that before the pandemic, I had no experience with platforms like Zoom. However, driven by the necessity to navigate uncharted waters, I embraced this shift and rapidly acquired proficiency in utilizing technology to foster connections.

This adaptive maneuver yielded remarkable results. Online sales surged significantly, underscoring the resilience and potential for growth even during challenging times. This experience propelled me to expand my skill set, becoming adept in both traditional and virtual approaches to engagement. It demonstrated the power of versatility and the capacity to thrive by embracing change. In retrospect, this pivot not only allowed Love Cork Screw to weather the storm but also enabled me to bridge the gap between personal interaction and technological innovation, ultimately enriching the brand’s offerings in ways I hadn’t envisioned before.

Can you open up about a time when you had a really close call with the business?

Certainly, let me recount a challenging episode from a time when the viability of my business was hanging in the balance, potentially jeopardizing its very existence. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic plunged me into a state of deep concern. As the crisis unfolded, a staggering 80% of the retailers carrying Love Cork Screw wines were forced to either shut down or drastically curtail their operating hours. This sudden turn of events ignited a profound sense of apprehension within me.

During this tumultuous period, the regular influx of orders ground to a halt, amplifying my worries. The prospect of impending financial strain loomed large, leading me to confront the daunting reality that I might not be able to meet payroll obligations. A consequential decision was made – I suspended drawing a salary for myself, driven by the pressing need to allocate resources to sustaining and pivoting the business.

In the face of adversity, I embarked on a multifaceted journey to secure the business’s survival. This included pursuing grants and funneling my personal funds into the enterprise. This dynamic strategy became essential for weathering the storm and ensuring that the wheels of progress continued turning, despite the tumultuous circumstances.

The period, though incredibly arduous, bore valuable lessons. It illuminated the importance of resourcefulness and adaptability, while underscoring the profound impact of unforeseen challenges on business stability. Looking back, this experience has become an integral part of the narrative that defines my journey. It showcases the tenacity required to navigate through the most trying of times and solidifies my resolve to transform challenges into growth opportunities.

While the Covid-19 crisis brought forth an unparalleled level of difficulty, it also forged a profound wellspring of resilience within me. The story of this period stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unyielding determination to prevail, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lovecorkscrew.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovecorkscrew/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LCSMusings
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18766648/admin/feed/posts/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoveCorkScrew
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCahcNhsddQ2HEy02lbPQMpw

Image Credits
Christian De’Mar