Today we’d like to introduce you to Ebony Coleman.
Hi Ebony, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
SWEET GINGER BROWNE began as a curious kitchen experiment with the goal of creating a delicious, all-natural, spicy ginger ale. My intent was only to create a simple syrup for myself to enjoy. The idea was born out of a desire to recreate a restaurant’s house-made ginger ale that I absolutely loved! The problem was the restaurant was in another city. I was confident I could recreate the same flavor, so I began to experiment. The first attempt was nearly perfect, but I didn’t write anything down so there was no recipe to follow to make the drink again. It took six months to develop a quality recipe to duplicate my initial success. I was so proud of myself!
I worked in an office where we had lots of parties and celebrations. The very first time I brought my ginger ale to work, coworkers asked me to make it for them to purchase. I remember telling a couple of people I would give them the recipe. Later that day I took some remaining products to the gym and let a few guys try it. They also told me I should sell the drink. I was in disbelief and amused that I had created something people wanted to pay for. I considered the second suggestion an affirmation to start a business. I went back to work the next week and I told my coworkers I planned to start a business so I couldn’t give them the recipe, LOL!
I incorporated within about two weeks, The name seemed obvious, so it came to me right away. SWEET GINGER BROWNE was legally established as an LLC in 2018 and I began selling to new customers the following spring at a local farmers market.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Well, the journey to this point has been simple, mainly because I’m taking little steps along the way towards my goals for the business. I’m not in a hurry. Each step is intentional and planned. The time commitment is challenging at times, and it can be draining, but each success or accomplishment drives me forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
SWEET GINGER BROWNE Mixer & Elixir is classified as a ginger simple syrup however, SGB is more complex than other simple syrups. Our mixers begin with organic ginger root and offer a more robust flavor and spice when compared with similar products. We begin with organic ingredients from their freshest, natural state yielding higher quality and better taste. We have five ginger-based syrups distinct in flavor and use. We also have five ready-to-drink blends our customers enjoy. Our flavors can be mixed with sparkling water or as flavor enhancers for still water, tea, juices, coffee, or alcohol. Since we offer a variety of flavors that can be enjoyed in so many ways, we have the benefit of also offering a unique Mobile Mocktail Service where we provide delicious plant-based ginger mocktails for parties and events where alcohol is not preferred. For those who want to enjoy spirit-based drinks with SGB, we have a cocktail menu as well.
At our inception, I wanted to create a natural alternative to canned and bottled ginger ale and ginger beer, which contain chemicals and preservatives that interfere with taste. We accomplished that goal with SGB. We will continue to set SGB mixers apart by offering higher-quality ginger syrups made with all-natural ingredients that provide a clean, refreshing taste. We intend to establish SWEET GINGER BROWNE in the highly competitive beverage market as a natural alternative to what is currently available. Our brand strategy and image have been built around drivers that convey SGB as vintage, high quality, clean, authentic and natural. Our product packaging is eye-catching and unique when compared with other simple syrups, so much so that many customers choose to repurpose their bottles rather than throw them away.
In addition to our concern for the quality of our product is our concern for the environment. It is our belief that we have a responsibility to protect the environment. We are proud to offer our customers a $1 discount off new purchases when they return an empty bottle. Many of our customers enjoy participating in our bottle exchange as they recognize its benefits. Our bottle exchange program creates a sense of community, it benefits our customers, our business and our environment. In addition, we phased out the use of small, plastic sample cups and we now use sample cups that are 100% compostable which our customers also appreciate.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I would advise food and beverage founders to network and make connections with people already in the industry. They will give you free advice and guidance along the way. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be open to networks you can establish through your customers. Some of your best contacts and connections may begin with them. Don’t overlook the importance of establishing rapport and relationships with your customers. Also, look for any organizations that fund startups and businesses that are minority or women-owned. Look for available food incubator kitchens or programs. They are in the business of helping food and beverage artisans, and they provide a sense of community and support. Lastly, find a way to use your business or your brand to give back and uplift others. Be kind, be giving, be generous and grow.
Pricing:
- $11.99 – 8oz syrup
- $11.99 – 12oz Ready-to-Drink
- $15.99 – 12oz syrup
- Half Gallon and Full Gallon sizes available
- Mobile Mocktail Service starting at $375
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sweetgingerbrowne.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sgbmixr/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sgbmixr
Image Credits:
Linda Russel Photography Quinelle Bethelmy Sheka Snowden Laurie Photography
