Introduction

Laura Taylor's journey from a sober-curious girls' weekend to building a national brand illustrates how a personal moment can spark a thriving business. What started as a desire for better drink options at social events became Mingle Mocktails, now an eight-figure company.

What Happened

Taylor launched Mingle in 2017 after giving up alcohol and struggling to find appealing nonalcoholic options at work and social gatherings. Inspired by a weekend in the Poconos with friends, she crafted her own mocktail and felt an immediate sense of connection. The brand quickly gained traction, hitting $250,000 in sales within 18 months and expanding to national distribution across more than 15,000 retail locations.

Why This Matters

Mingle's growth reflects a broader shift toward inclusive drinking and mindful consumption. The brand is now the No. 1 nonalcoholic ready-to-drink cocktail in the U.S. available in Total Wine stores nationwide and at over 500 bars and restaurants. It also serves as the official nonalcoholic beverage of the Academy of Country Music Awards highlighting its cultural impact.

Key Takeaways

  • Thorough research and industry networking can uncover gaps in the market, even in categories with high failure rates.
  • Attention to detail matters Taylor's barcode error with Whole Foods taught her to always have a second set of eyes review critical packaging elements.
  • Foundational resources like BevNET the Tory Burch Foundation and the Female Founder Collective provide invaluable support for women entrepreneurs.
  • Committing to a clear why helps sustain the intense workload often exceeding 60 hours a week needed to build a brand from the ground up.

Conclusion

Taylor's mission is simple: ensure everyone feels part of the party whether they choose alcohol or not. With new products like Mingle Mood functional beverages and a limited-edition Espresso Martini the brand continues to expand while staying rooted in its purpose of social connection and celebration for all.