Today we’d like to introduce you to Ericka Blount.
Ericka, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My favorite verse in the Bible is Proverbs 22:1; it reads, “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” I was born and raised in Georgia and my last name is everything. In Georgia, I established myself and my brand as an entrepreneur, educator, community activist and more. A few years ago, I moved to Texas and came to realize I needed to rebuild my brand because no one was familiar with my passion. I had not established myself as I did in Atlanta. After moving here, I launched a delicate mental journey, establishing my passion using my name as a brand in Texas.
I have a multifaceted background. My mission is to help people and leave a legacy on this world that loves and heals. Currently, I serve as a counselor and youth advocate for underserved students with behavior challenges. Many of the students I encounter have a desire to become independent within a career choice. In this generation, poverty-stricken students have not been given the appropriate tools to completely understand the concept of being an entrepreneur, branding themselves in a positive light, while overcoming unfortunate circumstances. This inspired the idea of inaugurating an in-house entrepreneurial program for the students. Educating the importance of envisioning, to transform those ideas into reality by developing business philosophies to go from planning to sales.
Eventually, I found myself lengthening the resources intended for students to cultivate my business. I built a t-shirt brand to highlight/brand my name and sold large quantities to teachers and other educational institutions. At the time, I did not realize inspiring the students continually inspired me to progress as an entrepreneur. I became determined to continually grow and share my ideas with as many individuals as possible. While having dinner with a friend, who owns a winery, I shared an idea for expanding my brand. “Needs more information about the process of creating the wine business.”
The opportunity to start a wine business was a natural progression in terms of my knowledge of sales, and my desire to help others. The wine business has been extremely lucrative.
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?
At the anchor of success within each role, I have fulfilled entrepreneurship. I have experienced several challenges on this journey. This journey has shaped my character, where I learned to adapt in countless situations without compromising my core beliefs. I started out in Georgia. Atlanta culture is where I developed my business sense. One of my challenges was navigating the Texas style of business and networking. I found myself sitting on the sideline, observing. I studied the market and reflected on what I needed to change to reinvent my brand.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Blount Wine Therapy – what should we know?
Blount Wine Therapy has been nominated the “Exclusive Wine” by UberEats for the city of Houston, Texas for 2020. Our authentic Italian wine is unique in so many aspects. We specialize in holistic wines that are not only enjoyable to the distinguished palate but also provide various health benefits. Historically, the infusion of honey into wine was used for its medicinal properties. Some benefits included antioxidants for its cancer-fighting properties, probiotics to regulate digestions and other therapeutic factors. Our red wine assists with regulating the blood sugar levels. We have red blends like Clinton. Clinton is a blend of Zinfandel, Cab, and Merlot. Collectively, we have an array of white and red wines that cover a multitude of palates. Drinking our wines creates a distinctive experience. Currently, we have over 32 wines on the market. We also offer the traditional Moscato, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines.
I am the CEO of Blount Wine Therapy and although I am proud of all flavors we produce, I am most proud of our Honey Line. Recently we introduced Liz, and HoneyDew, each offering a distinct note of berries and honey. Liz is an infusion of honey and elderberries. Honey Dew is a honey-based spicy wine. Each wine offers its own level of uniqueness.
Additionally, a portion of our proceeds go to a variety of nonprofit organizations that assist in the support of youth, veterans and mental health centers. In particular, organizations we strongly support focus on youth that suffer from ADHD and PTSD. Our goal is to assist youth with stress management.
Do you feel like our city is a good place for businesses like yours? If someone was just starting out, would you recommend them starting out here? If not, what can our city do to improve?
Yes, though the wine industry is primarily male-dominated and minimal minority representation, I have found my way in. Houston is an untapped territory for minorities and women-led businesses. I would recommend taping into yourself and building patience to learn the market. Observe and find your niche within the industry. Ask yourself, what am I bringing to this industry that no one else can? How can I create or add to the industry to make my product compelling?
Pricing:
- Individual wine bottles range from $30-50
Contact Info:
- Website: blountwinetherapy.com
- Instagram: Blount Wine Therapy
- Twitter: Blount Wine Therapy
Suggest a story: VoyageHouston 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.
