Finery Cocktails offer a range of unique ready-to-pour cocktails, including alcohol free options. The business has been built on brand ethics of promoting moderation and healthy relationships with alcohol whilst exploring better for you No Alcohol alternatives. In July 2020 they launched a first to market ready to drink zero per cent adult beverage option to New Zealand supermarkets. Finery now exports to Australia, Singapore and Rarotonga with the UAE currently in the pipeline.
How did the idea for Finery Cocktails come about?
After competing in a body challenge in late 2018 it became apparent very quickly that "better for you" beverage options were few and far between. It didn't feel right to have to compromise on beverages when I wasn't having to do the same with food. So in January 2019 I started working on the business idea casually whilst managing multiple renovation projects.
What do you love most about being a business founder?
I love walking into a store and seeing my product on a supermarket shelf. Even better when you see a shopper putting it in their trolley! Equally I love reading comments about how it has changed a consumer's drinking habits.
What has been your biggest challenge so far in your entrepreneurial journey?
Remembering the saying that Rome was not built in a day. Being self funded and a very small team there is only so much ground we can cover. Remembering to celebrate the wins no matter how small, stop, be thankful and keep on going.
What’s a business highlight you’re proud of?
Our zero per cent range. Knowing that we are making a difference to our consumers wellbeing and helping to normalise a moderated drinking culture for future generations.
What or who inspires you?
My daily inspiration certainly comes from home. Watching my boys develop and grow, I see them watching my business journey which gives me the energy and drive to make this brand and offering a success story. Also reading beverage brand success stories overseas in the industry EDM's that come through my inbox keeps me current and captivated about what is possible.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Each business relationship we form should be a partnership. To get the best out of each other it needs to work for both of you. If it's not working or when it stops working, be honest, make a change or move on.
Do you have any advice for female entrepreneurs in NZ?
You can never do too much planning and research. Whatever you budget for a start up, plan on that cost tripling, and maybe not working the first time around. Be prepared to pivot, don't be disheartened, just try again a different way.
How do you unwind from work?
I'm not sure I completely unwind, but I do have to stop each day after school and focus on my boys - for me that is unwinding. Once they are asleep then work can start again. Unless there is a bingeworthy series I haven't yet seen then I do have a terrible habit of completely unwinding with one of those once in a while.
What three things can’t you live without?
My Phone (haha!), notebook and pen.
If you won RISE UP, what would you use the money for?
To solidify our business strategy for investment to fast-track our growth in NZ and cementing our global partnerships.