We recently connected with Sierra “Sisi” Troup and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Sierra “Sisi” thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

I feel very lucky in that I started my business at the exact right time for me. It was during the pandemic, so I had extra time at home on my hands. Additionally, I had just graduated with a degree in accounting from the University of Oregon, so I had a lot of the really crucial business knowledge I learned still very fresh in my mind. Funny enough, I don’t realistically think I could have started my business much sooner, as you have to be at least 21 years old to apply for liquor licensure! I’m very happy to have thrown myself into this venture at such a young age, and feel so fortunate that I even have the opportunity to do so.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

Ugly B*tch is more than just a bottle of vodka, It’s a lifestyle and just the beginning of the product line. We pride ourselves on being on the short list of brands who put sustainability first in the liquor industry. Additionally, we have a variety of label designs and bottles that are dispersed equally, as we aim to appeal to everyone. Ugly B*tch is a movement with the propensity to bring us together rather than further divide us.

Ugly B*tch Hot Vodka stands on three pillars:

Sustainability: We have partnered with consumers and retailers alike to launch our bottle collection program, repurposing containers produced by the liquor industry. Recycling bottles in this manner allows us to prioritize minimizing our carbon footprint and begin detaching ourselves from the damaging impacts of glass production.

Equality: Being a women-owned business in a male dominated industry, we know that everyone deserves a seat at the table. We are committed to promoting inclusivity regardless of race, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity/ expression, age, or religion.

Inclusivity: We know that people come in all different shapes and sizes – that’s why each individual Ugly B*tch bottle and label are made unique. At Ugly B*tch, we celebrate our differences. We celebrate our diversity. And we celebrate you.

In addition to enforcing our three pillars, our goal is to bring a unique experience to consumers every single time they reach for a bottle of U.B. (Ugly B*tch) In the liquor aisle. With each purchase comes an exciting new choice of which bottle/label combination to choose! Whether they’re choosing based on personal preference, occasion, or simply expanding their U.B. collection, there is something for everyone!

How’d you meet your business partner?

This is an easy one, because I didn’t have too look too far! My Ugly B*tch business partner is actually my mother! One night during the pandemic, we were in the kitchen mixing up and sampling different cocktails, when she inadvertently made one drink a bit too strong. After taking a sip of it she said, “wow, that’s one ugly b*tch!”, and we laughed all about it. We spent the rest of the night staying up and talking about how funny it would be if there was a cocktail called the “Ugly B*tch”, and thus the idea was born! Obviously, there were many much more serious (and sober!) conversations after that about the business, but that was the night that inspired Ugly B*tch and gave me this opportunity!

Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?

Yes, we do manufacture our own product! I knew from the jump of starting this business that I wanted to manufacture myself, as that way I could ensure customers are getting the highest quality product possible. However, not coming into the business with a background in the spirits industry did lead to some challenges. I have moved warehouses, switched licenses, upgraded equipment, and done everything under the sun to prepare to successfully enter the industry. I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to expand my horizons and learn by doing that this business has provided me. Amongst many things, I’ve learned how to build a website, memorized the ins and outs of excise tax, navigated licensure, practiced product photography, and became very familiar with the local Home Depot!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @drinkuglybitch
• Twitter: @DRINKUGLYBITCH
• Other: Questions/Comments email us at admin@drinkuglybitch.com !!

Image Credits
Ugly B*tch