Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Cooper
Hi Aaron, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Wine is a fascinating subject. People often ask me what type of wine I like, and I always respond with the same answer: “All wine!” To me, wine—even within the same grape varietal—is like meeting a new person. Each wine has its own personality, just as every individual is unique, including identical twins.
Interestingly, about 7 or 8 years ago, I had never tasted wine. My best friend introduced me to it, and we began exploring different wines and attending tastings around the city. Four years ago, I decided to dive deeper into the world of wine. I came across a bottle priced at $55—a significant leap for me, as I usually capped my wine budget at $30. That bottle changed my perspective on wine. It had complex notes of plum, cherry, and leather, while the tasting notes included blueberry, tobacco, vanilla, and oak. How could a wine that was 28 years old still have such depth and complexity?
We’ve all been guilty of saying, “Let’s get together sometime for lunch,” only for it to never happen. After the pandemic, there were many people I wanted to reconnect with as I started my wine journey. One day, a simple idea struck me: let’s gather for one night to explore some wines, enjoy great food, and embrace community. In the summer of 2022, TOAE began to take shape. Though ambitious, I wanted to share some of the beautiful wines I’d discovered over the past year. The evening was designed for a group of 26 people, featuring 8 courses paired with 9 wines.
Wine can sometimes be perceived as pretentious, and I’ve always aimed to challenge that notion, showing people that it’s something anyone can enjoy. In a city that is constantly growing, Atlanta contains a melting pot of different people, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Wine has the power to unite people from all walks of life. After all, wine has been a symbol of community for thousands of years.
From the first dinner, dubbed Volume 1 in 2022, smaller events and gatherings—what I call “Kick-It-Parties”—began to emerge. These are laid-back, casual engagements that happen throughout the year. A typical Kick-It-Party features fun wines, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and plenty of socializing.
However, the annual dinner i.e. “Volume” is the event I truly look forward to. The Volumes are elegant, elevated affairs—think upscale wines, multi-course dinners with perfect wine pairings, and rare champagne served with caviar to complement the flavor profiles.
Volume 2, held in October 2023, set the stage for the future. Initially, I had only planned to host the original dinner in 2022, but at the last minute, I decided to move forward with Volume 2 as well. To put it into context, I have handled nearly all of the logistics and operations for these events myself. In just over a month, I organized a dinner for 48 guests, which turned out even better than I had imagined. The rest, as they say, is history—including Volume 3, which hosted 52 guests this past October 2024.From the first dinner, dubbed Volume 1 in 2022, smaller events and gatherings, which I call “Kick-It-Parties,” emerged. These are laid-back, casual engagements throughout the year. However, the annual Volumes are events I truly look forward to. Volume 2, held in October 2023, set the stage for the future. Initially, I had only planned to execute the original dinner in 2022, but at the last minute, I decided to go ahead with Volume 2. To put it into context, I’ve primarily handled all the logistics and operations for these events myself. In just over a month, I organized a dinner for 48 guests, which turned out even better than I had imagined. The rest, as they say, is history—including Volume 3, which hosted 52 guests this past October 2024.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Honestly, I’ve always struggled with this question. Everyone wanted TOAE to take a specific shape, something they could frame. But for me, it has never been about fitting into a mold. Like many, I’ve always sought experiences that leave a lasting impression. I often ask, “If you don’t think about it in the morning, was it worth it?” Those are the moments I would happily relive.
With my background in tech, I’m accustomed to analyzing subtle details, which has taught me to look deeper into things. I’m naturally an introvert, and in the past, I often felt out of place, as though something essential was missing—something that truly touches the soul. From that feeling, I wanted to create something that makes people feel valued and appreciated—an experience that leaves a lasting impact on the universe.
I’m not industry, a sommelier, or a promoter. I’m just a guy who loves great wine, great food, and the community that can be created using those key ingredients. A great deal of thought and precision goes into a TOAE experience. It’s a vision that has never been about me; TOAE is an idea born from the concept of community through the medium of wine. If just one person develops an interest in wine or feels the energy that TOAE brings, I’ll know I’ve achieved my initial goal.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Professionally, I’m a Data Architect with over 20 years of experience in the tech industry. My role focuses on leveraging my skills in computer science, data, and architecture to shape an organization’s data strategy—how data is collected, managed, and implemented to create value while ensuring security and compliance. In short, I design databases, develop data models, and set governance standards to guide business decisions.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked on several groundbreaking projects, many of which are confidential. What sets me apart is my ability to think creatively and develop effective solutions to complex problems. From a young age, I’ve always aspired to be an engineer—someone who solves problems—and that’s exactly what I do.
Personally, TOAE is something I am passionate about. I guess you could say it’s like my outlet, but I enjoy curating these events, bringing people together and creating community through wine. It’s something that has grown out of a simple idea 3 years ago. I look forward to watching it evolve further over the next couple years.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I am deeply grateful to the many people who have been mentors, advocates, and positive influences throughout my journey. First and foremost, I thank God for placing me in a position to explore this passion. I also owe a great deal to my parents, who have inspired me since childhood and reminded me that I could be anything I desired.
My best friend, Ebony Smith, introduced me to the world of wine, while Stewart Cellars expanded my understanding of what exceptional winemaking can be. Jordan Smelt and Katie Barringer at Lucian Books and Wine introduced me to countless amazing wines, deepening my passion even further. My good friend Mikey Kilbourne was not only my tasting partner and primary buyer at Corks and Cellar but also helped me launch my first dinner event.
I am also thankful for every sommelier I’ve met, particularly those in the Atlanta wine community. Kelly Hawkins of La Fête Wine Co. has been a sounding board for my wild ideas, a mentor, a friend, and my Bordeaux-tasting partner.
Finally, I appreciate everyone who has supported, challenged, and engaged with me in conversations that offered new perspectives. These exchanges have allowed a shy kid who still plays with Legos to keep dreaming.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @trickingoffainteasy
- Email: aaroncooper@4toae.com
Image Credits
TOAE
