Meet Cathy Cowan of On the Rocks Gourmet Jams

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cathy Cowan.

Hi Cathy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It was a beautiful Saturday and I had just been invited to brunch. As a busy mom juggling two small kids, I couldn’t wait to get out of the house and enjoy some much-needed girl time—fluffy pancakes, bottomless mimosas, the works. I slipped on my cute heels and was just about to head out the door when, like clockwork, my little ones suddenly needed everything from snacks to an audience for a talent show. By the time I tended to their mini-emergencies, brunch was over. Now I was “hangry” with nowhere to go.

With nothing but time (and a serious craving), I headed into the kitchen to improvise brunch. I found some biscuits, gathered some fruit I always keep on hand for the kids—and then I grabbed the wine I keep on hand because I have kids. That moment of inspiration turned into my very first batch of boozy jam. And just like that, On the Rocks Gourmet Jams was born.

What started as a playful kitchen experiment turned into a full-blown business built on creativity, resilience, and a deep desire to create something that blends comfort with celebration. I’ve grown the brand through local markets, national features, and partnerships, all while raising two incredible kids and learning how to navigate entrepreneurship one batch at a time. It’s been messy, magical, and worth every step.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road—more like a winding one with detours I never saw coming. When I first started the business, my then-husband loved the idea and shortly after we decided to be partners. I envisioned building something beautiful for our family to thrive in together. But when our marriage ended, so did that vision. I was left picking up the pieces—emotionally, financially, and spiritually. What I thought would be a story of partnership turned into one of loss, heartbreak, and deep uncertainty.

I found myself in a place where even the thought of making jam felt meaningless. Grief consumed me. I wasn’t just mourning the end of a marriage—I was mourning the life I thought I’d have. I asked God for purpose, but instead, it felt like I was drowning in pain. Over time, with therapy, prayer, and the loving push of my children’s smiles, I started to accept that maybe my life wouldn’t look the way I had planned—but it could still be purposeful.

I realized life is messy, but we all have a choice in how our story continues. I stopped striving for perfection and started following God’s lead. I’ve learned to balance single motherhood, entrepreneurship, and healing—giving myself grace along the way. Relaunching On the Rocks Gourmet Jams has been my way of writing a new chapter—one rooted in strength, faith, and the belief that joy is still possible. This time, I’m building a business not from a place of brokenness, but from a place of clarity and calling.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
On the Rocks Gourmet Jams is a handcrafted, alcohol-infused jam company that blends bold flavors, high-quality ingredients, and a splash of fun into every jar. We specialize in small-batch preserves infused with wines and spirits. Our jams are designed for the woman who loves entertaining, indulging, and gifting beautifully unique items. Whether it’s for brunch boards, charcuterie, holiday gifting, or a late-night snack with cheese and crackers—our jams bring a twist to tradition.

What sets us apart is the experience we create. This isn’t just jam. It’s gourmet indulgence with personality. Our flavors are bold, our packaging is gift-ready, and our brand exudes warmth, wit, and a bit of sass. We’re not here to blend in—we’re here to stand out on your pantry shelf and your party table.

What I’m most proud of brand-wise is the emotional connection we’ve built. Our customers return not just because they love the jam (which they do), but because they feel seen. This brand is rooted in resilience, reinvention, and joy—even in the face of life’s messiness. We’re woman-owned, community-driven, and faith-led—and that heart shows in every detail.

At On the Rocks, we offer more than a product. We offer an experience that feels thoughtful, playful, and indulgent. You can find us online, at specialty markets, and in select retail shops—with expansion into hotels, wineries, and curated gift boxes underway. We’re creating flavors that spark conversation and bring people together, one delicious spoonful at a time.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I like best about Atlanta is the energy—it’s vibrant, creative, and full of culture. The food scene is great, the people are warm and diverse, and there’s a real sense of opportunity here. You can feel the growth everywhere—from the neighborhoods to the small business community—and it’s inspiring to be part of a city that’s always evolving.

What I like least? The traffic. Hands down. It can be chaotic, unpredictable, and adds extra time to every trip. But honestly, that’s the trade-off when you live in a city that everyone wants to be a part of.

Pricing:

• Small = $3.29
• Medium = $8.29
• Large = $12.99

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ontherocksjams.com
• Instagram: @ontherocksjams
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560561151719

Image Credits
Rebekah Chavez