Life and Work with Lauren Maines

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Maines.

Lauren, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am often asked how and why I got into the wine industry. Besides the fact that I love drinking wine, I have always been intrigued with the history, majesty and mystique of wine. Wine can be traced back over 8000 years to our ancient world. Very few things in our current time period can provide us with a direct connection to our ancient ancestors – even fewer that we can consume into our bodies Every time you pop open a bottle and sip from that glass, you are experiencing more history than you can ever imagine!

My desire extends even further! I have a passion for creating memories that last a lifetime and I use wine as the vessel. Wine has a unique ability to bring people together and unite us on a level that is greater than we can fathom. How many times have you shared a bottle of Rosé with a girlfriend on a summer night and found yourself chatting about life into the wee hours of the morning? How many times have you celebrate accomplishments with a bottle of Champagne and toasted to continued success and happiness? These are cherished memories that hold a special place in our hearts and they are often shared over a bottle (or more) of wine.

I created “What’s Wine Is Yours” to emphasize wine appreciation by creating unforgettable and completely unique tasting events. How do I do that? I focus on history, stories, and personal experiences that captivate guests and offer newfound appreciation for the wine that is in your glass. Each tasting (public, private, or corporate) is completely unique to the host and event. Are you interested in a tasting designed around my favorite love story of all time between two grapes? How about a Champagne tasting that features the undisputed female champions of the Champagne industry? What about learning skills associated with blind tasting? The list of memory options goes on.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Following my passion and leaping into the entrepreneurial world has always been (and will continue to be) exciting, nerve racking, exhilarating, and scary at the same time. To all the individuals starting the journey and for those of us who are trying our best to continue our journey… I firmly believe that each of us possess our own unique set of gifts that only we can offer this world. Remember to always honor these unique gifts. Personally, I feel the most resistance and stress when I find myself trying to fit into a belief or mold of what “I should be.” We cannot try to fit into a mold that denies our own true self. Be unapologetically YOU-that is what the world wants and needs.

Please tell us about What’s Wine Is Yours.
Are you looking for an unforgettable experience filled with glamour? I am trained in the dramatic art of Sabrage! Sabrage is the elegant and renown art of slicing off the top of a Champagne bottle with a sword. Nothing says, “WOW!” like opening a bottle of bubbles with a sword! I have the distinct privilege of traveling the region and bringing this ceremonial art to ALL celebrations! My heart is overjoyed when I have the opportunity to celebrate an engagement, toast a Bride and Groom at their wedding reception, commemorate a milestone celebration, or perform this dramatic ceremony at a dinner party. The opportunity to make memories that last a lifetime is one of my greatest joys in life and one that I do not take for granted. My heart is overjoyed when I hear that my passion can create memories that live on in the lives of others.

In addition to customized tastings and Sabrage, I also feature, “Happy Champagne Friday” videos on social media. These Friday videos celebrate the beauty of Champagne and Sparkling Wines from around the world. Tune in to my social media accounts to share in the fun and celebration!

Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
I firmly believe that success is guided by passion. The most important advice that I ever received in regards to following my passion came from a dear friend over dinner one night. At that time, I was a wife, a new mom, and a woman desperate to find my true passion in life. She said (paraphrased), “It will happen for you, but you have to let it happen organically.” I have carried these words in my heart & mind and I am eternally grateful for her wise words. Hone in on your passion and create your own opportunities!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.WhatsWineIsYours.net
• Phone: 970-443-4975
• Email: lauren@whatswineisyours.net
• Instagram: whatswineisyours
• Facebook: What’s Wine Is Yours

Image Credit:
Photography By Desiree

Suggest a story: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.