From Homebrewing to Brewery Startup

LeAnn Darland and Tara Hankinson, both with successful careers in finance and customer experience, had a shared passion for homebrewing that led them to start their own brewery.

• Inspired by their experiences in San Diego and New York, they envisioned a brewery that would cater to a more sophisticated crowd.
• Their homebrewing hobby, combined with their professional skills, laid the foundation for their future venture.

The Inspiration and Initial Steps

Tara, with a background in management consulting, discovered her love for the craft brewing industry while working at a winery. This experience ignited her desire to create a similar experience, focused on beer.

• She honed her brewing skills through homebrewing and later joined a beer ecommerce startup, where she met LeAnn.
• LeAnn, inspired by the community aspect of breweries, sought to create a brewery that would appeal to a wider audience, including her friends and family.

Challenges of Building a Brewery Side Hustle

The journey of building a brewery side hustle was not without its challenges.

• Time constraints, balancing full-time jobs with homebrewing, and the extensive process involved in brewing were significant hurdles.
• Navigating legal processes, obtaining licenses, and securing funding while maintaining their careers demanded meticulous planning and coordination.

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success

Despite the challenges, Darland and Hankinson persevered. They entered homebrew competitions, received feedback on their beers, and gained valuable experience in the industry.

• They leveraged their professional skills to streamline processes, secure funding, and manage their growing business.
• Their determination, combined with their passion for brewing, led to the establishment of TALEA Beer Co., a thriving brewery that offers a unique experience to customers.

The Rise of TALEA Beer Co.

TALEA Beer Co. quickly gained traction, generating significant revenue through its taproom and wholesale businesses.

• Their focus on customer experience, beautifully designed taprooms, and a wide selection of drinks and snacks contributed to their success.
• Strategic partnerships with other brands helped expand their reach and build brand awareness.

Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Darland and Hankinson's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication.

• They emphasize the importance of not letting perfection hinder progress and to be proactive in seeking feedback and adapting to market needs.
• Their advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to be hands-on, embrace opportunities for growth, and create a business that resonates with their passions.

TALEA Beer Co.: A Success Story in the Brewery Industry

TALEA Beer Co. is a shining example of how passion and determination can lead to success in the competitive brewery industry. The story of Darland and Hankinson serves as an inspiration to other aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the power of turning a side hustle into a thriving business.

• Their journey highlights the importance of combining professional skills with passion, embracing challenges, and building a strong brand identity.
• TALEA Beer Co. stands as a testament to the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of women in the business world.